As readers digested the front page story about the closing of Shop ’n Save in Hermitage recently, it didn’t come without a certain sadness for many. The Magnotto family that owns the store have long been a staple of the Shenango Valley business community.

Owners Michael and Aileen Magnotto said they were retiring for personal reasons and not because of the recent tough economic times. But as they close, the thought is on everyone’s mind: How many other area businesses and industries that are feeling the financial crunch may be next to go?

The Magnotto family started in the grocery business in 1906 with a small store in Farrell. So for many loyal shoppers the closing is like losing a member of their own families.

But besides losing a business, the Shenango Valley also will miss the couple’s involvement in many community and charity endeavors. They provided food and money for many needy causes.

For example, the Prince of Peace Center was always a major recipient of the family’s generosity. Many hungry people were able to fill their stomachs thanks to food donated by the Magnottos.

The store partnered with The Herald each year to provide the turkeys for needy families at Christmas. The Magnottos provided the turkeys at cost to be bought by money collected through The Herald’s Good News Fund. On a happier note, that Fund recently topped the $18,000 mark.

Without a doubt, the closing of any business has a ripple effect. About 100 employees will be looking for work, although we understand some have already been hired by other grocery stores.

The only positive outcome might be that the former Shop ’n Save regulars will spend their money in other local stores to help bolster their status.

And another bright note for remaining grocery stores — but not for local restaurants — is that more and more families are eating dinner at home more often as they try to stretch their dollars.

Businesses come and go. That’s reality. But few businesses are run by families that provide more than a century of service to a community.

We wish the Magnottos well in their retirement and whatever future endeavor they may embark upon. Thanks for the memories.