In 1986, due to corrupted business practices, John sold his half share of the diner to his cousin Brian.

[4] On August 31, 2006, O'Rourke's Diner suffered tremendous damage from a fire that broke out after a hamburger steamer was left on overnight.

[5] Because the diner did not have fire insurance, fundraising efforts were launched[6] to cover the estimated $350,000 cost of repairs.

[7] By June 2007, $180,000 had been raised and preparations for reconstruction were underway.

[8] On February 11, 2008, following successful renovations which included assistance from the local community and Wesleyan University, O'Rourke's was reopened at 5:00 am.