In Big Apple, The Big Night

10.35pm, Thursday 18 October -- Putting a new spin on the old line, perhaps the shot above could best be captioned "Dolan, caput mundi."

Either way, here from the dais at the Waldorf, the twin keynotes from the 67th Al Smith Dinner, in the order they were given....

First, the Republican nominee for the Presidency:
   

Then, the Democratic standard bearer:  
...and, of course, "The Main Event" – the remarks and closing benediction of the evening's host – who, when it comes to the Stateside church, is and will remain The President:
 

The latest edition of the campaign ritual is reported to have raised $5 million for New York's Catholic Charities – twice the amount brought in by the McCain-Obama double bill four years ago.

PHOTO: Damon Winter/The New York Times

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