BATH BOROUGH, Pa. — After more than three decades in business, Ahart’s Market is preparing to close its doors following a devastating loss caused by a weekend power outage.
Owner George Ahart said a power outage Saturday night left the store without electricity until approximately 5 p.m. Sunday.
As a result, nearly all of the food stored in the market’s freezers spoiled, rendering an estimated $150,000 worth of inventory unsafe for sale.
The loss proved to be a major blow for the business.
Residents say the closure will leave a significant void in the community.
“It’s a shame of what took place here, because this was a nice store and everything you wanted,” said Bath resident Frank Turdo.
Turdo noted that the market provided an important service for residents who lacked reliable transportation.
“For the people that don’t even have a vehicle, they could come here and walk to the store and get whatever they need,” he said.
While Ahart said he will miss operating the store, he said the customers are what he will miss most. Over the years, many became more like family than patrons.
Longtime customer Lori Stack recalled one example that demonstrated Ahart’s commitment to helping the community during difficult times.
During the Blizzard of 1996, Stack said residents were stranded by heavy snowfall and a shelter was established at George Wolf Elementary School. With dozens of people in need of food, Ahart stepped in to help.
“We had about 28 people. We had no food,” Stack said. “Bob gave us the keys to the store. My husband Dave and I came in here, got all the groceries to feed breakfast for all the stranded people for the next day or two. He didn’t charge us. It was all a donation.”
Once the Bath location officially closes, the only remaining Ahart’s Market will be the company’s store in the Pocono region.