Santa makes stop at Dunkin’ Donuts grand re-opening

WARM WELCOME: The welcoming committee at Saturday’s Dunkin’ Donuts grand re-opening included, from left, Anthony Giovanella, Nicholas LaPolla, Shannon Withey and Jesse Robyn.

Sun Rise photos by Pete Fontaine

A HUGE HIT: Balloon animals were a huge hit with children like Evan, 8, and Jacob, 4, who came to Saturday’s grand re-opening with their mother Dana Stonis.

MEETING SANTA: Joseph, and Kaydenn, 5, were among the many youngsters who had a chance to talk with Santa Claus Saturday afternoon in Johnston. Santa’s elf is Danielle Dottor.

Posted Friday, November 27, 2015 11:32 am

By Pete Fontaine

The traffic flow on Killingly Street Saturday was a bit slower than usual.

That’s because motorists passing the Dunkin’ Donuts store at 602 Killingly St. stopped for a moment to wave at Mocha, one of the firm’s two mascots that took part in Saturday’s grand re-opening.

But the event, which was coordinated for franchisee Jim Lynch by Regan Communications, was more like a holiday fun-fest that included giveaways, caricature sketching, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Lynch, who owns and operates 36 Dunkin’ Donuts franchises, was ably assisted by Anthony Giovanella, Nicholas LaPolla and Jesse Robyn, who served as a welcoming committee during the three-hour event.

“Everyone’s having fun today,” said Shannon Withey from Dan's Management Company, a Dunkin' Donuts franchisee. “Even Mocha is putting on all kinds of welcome moves outside.”

But the most popular person was Santa Claus, whose white beard sparkled. He was joined by a special helper, Danielle Dottor.