MIDDLETOWN – With a new roof and floor foundation installed, construction is underway at O’Rourke’s Diner.
Work on the burned building began three weeks ago, said Larry Marino of Marino Crane. Marino estimates the diner will be rebuilt in three or four mouths.
The diner suffered a fire in August of last year, was closed due to damage and was not covered by insurance. Marino is one of many in the community who rallied in support of the historic eatery, raising about $200,000 to go toward the building’s restoration.
In August, the Common Council unanimously approved a $25,000 grant toward the restoration project and acknowledged O’Rourke’s place in the history of Middletown. In business for more than 60 years, O’Rourke’s fed masses from Middletown and beyond.
Middletown Press (10/08/07)
Meanwhile star chef Brian O’Rourke is guest chef at It’s Only Natural Restaurant (ION) where he presides over Sunday brunch.
More info: O’Rourke’s Diner
Also , Wesleyan’s Center for Film Studies will present a benfit screening of the film “Diner” on Sunday October 21 at 7:30 PM in the Goldsmith Family Cinema on campus. Tickest are $10.00 for students and $15.00 for the general public including seniors. All proceeds go to help rebuild O’Rourke’s Diner. The 1982 film was written and directed by Barry Levinson. Box Office: 860.685.3355 for tickets.
The You Tube video below is the hilarious “Popcorn” scene from the film.
Save the date: The next meeting of the Jonah Center will be on Tuesday, October 16, at 7 p.m. at First Church, 190 Court Street
Tags: o’rourke’s diner,wesleyan,ion,it’s only natural,brian levinson,diner,film benefit,jonah center
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