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At his block party, Villaraigosa has a swan song in his heart (LA Times)
At his block party, Villaraigosa has a swan song in his heartBy Kate Linthicum and Emily Alpert, Los Angeles Times
June 7, 2013, 10:03 p.m.
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa took over downtown's Grand Park on Friday night for a boisterous block party that was largely about celebrating him.
On a giant podium erected on the steps of City Hall, a group of elected officials stood and praised Villaraigosa, who steps down this month after serving two terms as mayor.
"American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest called him a dear friend "who loves Los Angeles." Former President Bill Clinton, a longtime political ally, said "he's a good-looking guy" who made the city safer and greener. Placido Domingo and Stevie Wonder sang tributes.
It was, in the former president's words, Villaraigosa's "swan song." "He was faithful to his oath to serve you, every one of you," Clinton said. "He deserves this block party."
Mayor-elect Eric Garcetti was one of the most effusive. "You have allowed us to dream for eight years. And they have been sweet, sweet dreams."
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-0608-villaraigosa-block-party-20130608,0,7096317.story
