Businesses make do without power

BOARDMAN — The Country Fair on South Avenue couldn’t sell gas without power, but cashier Marie Giannini persuaded her boss to open the convenience store anyway.

That decision was popular with homeowners who didn’t have electricity today and were concerned about food in the refrigerator.

“We’re selling ice like it’s going out of style,” said Giannini, who was recording sales on a sheet of paper because the register wouldn’t work.

Uncertainty swirled around much of the Boardman business district as those without power wondered when it would be restored. People at some of the closed businesses said they had heard from delivery drivers and customers that power could be out for days.

Paul Harkey, Ohio Edison area manager, said on WKBN radio that he expected all power would be restored by Thursday but it would happen sooner in some areas.