Help Donna Monroe Restore Mr. Fudge's Confectionary

On Sept. 27, a devastating fire broke out at Mr. Fudge's Confectionary, a cherished establishment on Metamora's Main Street owned by Donna Monroe. Fortunately, firefighters confined the fire to one section of the building and rafters, significantly minimizing the potential damage. Within approximately an hour, the fire was extinguished. Monroe expressed her gratitude for their quick response and hard work.

Monroe is uncertain about the complete scope of the damage to the building and the estimated time for repairs. However, preparations were well underway for the annual Canal Days Festival Oct. 5-7 in Metamora, a huge source of income for shop owners in the little canal town. Monroe had already prepared a large quantity of fudge and candy for the event and had just received a substantial shipment of chocolate for both Canal Days and Christmas Walk. Unfortunately, all the products must be discarded, and Monroe will have to start from scratch. However, Monroe is staying positive.

"I could be upset and let myself fall apart, but that won't do any good," Monroe said. "I am just taking it one day at a time and can't wait to get back to what I do best, being a candy maker. She will be working off-site to make as much of her signature fudge and candy as possible so she can set up at least some products outside her building during Canal Days.

The close-knit community of Metamora has wasted no time rallying around Monroe, showing their support. Mr. Fudge's Confectionary will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, and Monroe assures everyone the legacy will continue. She began working at Mr. Fudge's when she was 14 and worked side by side with owner Sid Ekdale for 20 years. When Ekdale passed away, Monroe learned he left her the Confectionery in his will, making it her heart and soul for 45 years.