They took shots at his bow tie collection, his extensive travel, his hair — or lack thereof — his 2002 petition scandal and his dry personality.
But Wednesday’s sold-out roast of outgoing Mayor Anthony Williams, his friends and colleagues said, was all in good fun, to honor a man who is credited with spearheading a stunning economic turnaround of a financially failing nation’s capital.
“Singe but not burn,” Williams said prior to the fundraiser for Southeastern University, held at the Wardman Park Marriott.
Oh, they singed.
“You are living proof that nice guys can finish first, even if it takes a write-in campaign,” said District Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton.
In all seriousness, Former President Bill Clinton made a brief appearance to wish Williams the best. Joshua Bolten, President George W. Bush’s chief of staff, read a letter from Bush thanking Williams for his service.
“There’s life after politics,” Clinton said.
“He can still serve. He’s as valuable as ever.”
Democratic mayoral nominee Adrian Fenty, the Ward 4 council member, made light of Williams’ history of supporting anyone but him in political campaigns. Williams is cordially invited, Fenty said, to support his opponent in future races as well.
“Mayor Williams, I only have one thing to say to you: 142 precincts,” Fenty said of his landslide primary victory.
As for Williams’ future career, Norton recommended authoring a book titled “A travelers’ tour guide to all parts of the world except the District of Columbia.” Council Member Jack Evans said he’s “spoken with former Vice President Al Gore and he would like you to join him as a motivational speaker.”
