Garden Party Benefit for AIDS Council of Northeastern NY

Scott Baldinger reports from Hudson. The garden party benefit for the AIDS Council of Northeastern New York was held September 2, on the lush grounds of the 1785 Henry Van Renseelaer House, home of Dr. Norman Posner and Graham Farrell (in photo, left). Its Georgian architecture and surrounding sprawling grounds are a sight to be seen. The numerous people attending the party, however, made up such a beguiling crew that they virtually upstaged the luscious surroundings, both architectural and horticultural. State Senator Thomas Duane, one of the announced guests of honor, couldn't make it (he's on his way to the Democratic Convention), but the ingenious playwright/actor Charles Busch and local personality Musty Chiffon, looking amazing and chirping songs in the bright glare of the midday sun, more than made up for the senator's regrettable absence.

Jess Hayenga, Michael Belanger, and guest of honor Charles Busch; film agent Brian Swardstrom with his spouse, actor/writer Peter Spears.

Chris Lastovick with her spouse, Claverack Town Supervisor Robin Andrews, who is running for State Senate this year, and Musty Chiffon, who is not; Tivoli residents Andrew Arrick and Michael Hofemann.

Photography critic Philip Gefter with architect Steven Harris;  Hudson City Democrats party chairman Victor Mendolia with State Assemblyperson Didi Barrett.

Realtor Gary DiMauro, Barbara Cooke DiMauro, realtor Kathryn Windley, and photographer Kenneth Cooke.

Columbia County supervisor Ellen Thurston with host Norman Posner; landscape designer Peter Bevacqua with spouse Stephen King.

Bob Gillis and Barbara Dague;  David Murphy, Jack Simpson, Jim Willhite and Russell Hatch.

Philanthropist Henry van Ameringen with Charles Busch; AIDS Council special events coordinator Kat Brown with Musty Chiffon.