“Amazing” was how Doug Schmucker described the results of a fund-raiser to benefit employees of Schmucker’s diner, who have been out of work since Aug. 22 due to a fire.

“It surpassed my expectations,” Mr. Schmucker said, his voice breaking.

The Tuesday event, held at a meeting of the Reynolds Corners Rotary Club at Epiphany Lutheran Church, was attended by 166 people.

“We had raised a little over $8,000 and then an anonymous donor brought it up to an even $10,000,” said the club’s president, Hyfah Hilou.

Immediately after the fire was extinguished, Mr. Schmucker vowed to reopen the restaurant, but he has been frustrated by delays in obtaining the necessary permits.

“A lot of moving pieces have to fall into place, but we hope to be open by the third week of November,” Mr. Schmucker sa

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