Oct 16, 2009 6:16 am US/Eastern
Archbishop Dolan Crystal-Like As Smith Dinner Host
Head Of New York Archdiocese Soaks In The Star Power On Hand As Political Event Draws Big Names And Big Bucks
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan discussed a myriad of topics in an exclusive interview with CBS 2 HD's Mary Calvi on April 22, 2009.
CBS
It's always a very big night in politics at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner. That's where the rich, powerful and accomplished come together to raise big cash while poking a little fun.
But this year's event was a first.
That's because new Archbishop Timothy Dolan hosted the event on Thursday night.
"I've been a fan of the Al Smith Dinner since I was a kid and now to be here and be the host there is a feeling of awe," Dolan said.
Archbishop Dolan was overwhelmed by the esteemed company – two mayors past, a mayor present and his challenger, celebrities and some of the nations' richest and most accomplished.
Not in attendance, but back at home for her son's big night, was the archbishop's mother, a fact he had some fun with.
"The real reason my mom is not here is she stayed at the Waldorf Astoria for the installation six months ago. This is a little embarrassing. The hotel won't let her back until she returns all the towels," Dolan said.
The crowd responded with a standing ovation.
The night's guest speaker was the nation's most senior military officer and the president's top military advisor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Adm. Mike Mullen, who early on provided this naval status report.
"Just for the record the Nimitz is in the Indian Ocean, the George Washington is in the Yellow Sea and Carnival Cruise Lines has 18 ships sailing from great destinations at half price," Mullen said.
Last year, the Smith dinner raised about $4 million for Catholic charities. And this time around that same sum was expected.
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