By By Janet Little Cooper
Pharmacists Russell Sheldt and his staff are packing up and closing the doors to Atmore Family Pharmacy later this month.
The pharmacy, which opened two years ago, will close on Tuesday evening, Jan. 24, 2006.
"This was not an easy decision to make," Sheldt said. "But due to my chronic lower back problems, it has become increasingly difficult to work six days a week."
According to Sheldt, the shortage of pharmacists makes it even more difficult to take just one day off. Sheldt has seen numerous physicians that all recommended he make the move.
Sheldt along with all of his present employees will be joining the staff of Rite Aid pharmacy located behind his building. He will be working full time with one other full time pharmacist.
As of Jan. 25th all of the prescription files, computers and inventory from Atmore Family Pharmacy will be transferred to Rite Aid.
"Customers should not experience any interruptions of service or lose any existing refills on their prescriptions," Sheldt said. "Customers will gain access to some of the latest in pharmacy and health services and products at Rite Aid as well."
Sheldt began his career in 1992 when he joined the staff of the former K-mart in Atmore. He worked with Kmart for ten years until the store closed and then relocated to Scott's Pharmacy in Molino for a year before returning to Atmore.
"I love Atmore and the people in it," Sheldt said. "I hate to close because I love the people so much. That is why I came back and opened my own store in the first place. I have always wanted to own my own store just like my grandfather and Atmore was the perfect place."
Sheldt's grandfather owned and operated Fulton Road Pharmacy in Mobile, working as a pharmacist until he was 92 years old. His father is also a pharmacist in South Florida with Publix supermarkets.
"I wish to thank everyone for their loyalty, trust and patronage over the past two years and hope that we can continue to provide you with the same efficient service and personal concern as we continue to be your pharmacists at our local Rite Aid Pharmacy." Sheldt said.
Rite Aid is located at 506 East Church Street just behind Atmore Family Pharmacy.