A steady stream of people filed into the already crowded school basement cafeteria. Tables spanned the length of the room where every seat was occupied. A line of people waiting for food snaked around the basement, ending down the hallway. Just another typical Election Day for Cathedral Academy at Pompei.
Every Election Day for 59 years Our Lady of Pompei Church on the North Side of Syracuse has hosted its spaghetti supper. The event is always well attended. "I grew up in the neighborhood," said Anthony Simiele, 48, of Syracuse. "I have been coming here for 43 years."
The large turnout also attracts the local politicians. The supper allows them to forget about partisan politics for a few hours and thank the voters.
"If you run for office, this is the place to come," Republican candidate for the 25th Congressional District, Dale Sweetland said. "It is a time to say congratulations on all sides."
Sweetland spoke with student reporters in the parking lot of the school. No more than ten feet away, his opponent was saying the same thing.
"If you run for office, this is the place to come," Republican candidate for the 25th Congressional District, Dale Sweetland said. "It is a time to say congratulations on all sides."
Sweetland spoke with student reporters in the parking lot of the school. No more than ten feet away, his opponent was saying the same thing.
"I always shake hands with my opponent," Democratic candidate Dan Maffei said."
Even politicians not up for election attend the supper. It's their way to say thanks to voters.
"It is a tremendous tradition," Father Paul Angelicchio, Pastor of Our Lady of Pompei, said.
"Everyone comes here on Election Day to be seen with the people."
But there is another reason why the people come.
"I have been coming out at least 15 years," Sweetland said. "And the meatballs are just as good every time."
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