Dem’s Diner closes up as election season ends

Sometime around 1:30 last Thursday afternoon, Johnston Democratic Town Committee Chairman Richard J. DelFino Jr. began removing colorful campaign signs from the walls and windows inside 1500 Place off Atwood Avenue.

“We’re closing up shop after another successful season,” DelFino said as DPW Director Arnie Vecchione and Peter DelPonte began cleaning up the leftover food that upwards of 90 people enjoyed. “This is a lot of work but a lot of fun; today was the biggest crowd we’ve had all season.”

DelFino then turned to Mayor Joseph Polisena and said, “It’s kind of sad to be closing our Dem’s Diner; during election season it’s the place to be.”

Dem’s Diner is a space where politicians talk strategy and discuss issues. U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressman James Langevin, Gov. Gina Raimondo and Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin, as well as other political leaders from all corners of the state, make Dem’s Diner their lunch stop every other Thursday during the political season.

“These luncheons have been a unique networking event,” Polisena said while welcoming Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian, a Republican, who two days earlier won re-election.

Mike Knipper, head of property and executive vice president of Citizens Bank, said he enjoys sharing stories about the state’s business climate during the unique luncheons.

“The food’s great, the people are great and this is a great time,” said Knipper, who was joined by Reed, Langevin and Johnston Town Council President Robert V. Russo at last week’s season finale. “These luncheons have been special.”

Rob Farrell, chairman of the Warwick Democratic City Committee, said, “This is the place to be seen. And the food, it’s delicious. Maybe we should do this in our city.”

“The food is all homemade,” Polisena explained to outgoing Warwick State Senator William Walaska, who in September lost a tight race to primary challenger Jeanine Calkin.

The bi-monthly luncheon is prepared and cooked by DelFino, Vecchione and DelPonte. Last week, nearly 100 guests enjoyed included chicken parmigiana, meatballs and stuffed shells and, of course, always fresh Italian rolls. “We not only have great political leaders and volunteer workers, we have great cooks in our party.” said Polisena.