First Posted: 7/8/2014
Vincent Peck, a recent graduate of Temple University School of Pharmacy, is returning to his roots on Main Street in Pittston to join his family in operating Fino’s Pharmacy.
Having received his Doctor of Pharmacy degree, Peck passed his Pennsylvania state boards on June 15, and now will represent a fourth generation following the career choice of his great-grandfather Pasquale J. “Pat” Fino, uncles Mike and Dominick Fino and Vince “Jack” Peck, each having chosen pharmacy as a career and passion.
His parents, Vincent “Jack” and Annette Peck, owners of Fino’s Pharmacy, couldn’t be more proud. To them, Vincent’s decision to return is a homecoming.
“I am so glad he decided to go into pharmacy and carry on our family tradition,” said Annette. “I am consistently impressed with his hard work and dedication. The pharmacy program is not easy.”
Vincent said his decision to return to the pharmacy was based on one thing: “family.”
“I did have other opportunities offered to me in the Philadelphia area,” he said. “But I knew I wanted to come back to the Greater Pittston area and serve alongside my family.”
Vincent also credits the pharmacy’s customers with “simply being nice, good, hardworking people who are loyal to the pharmacy because of its good service and warm atmosphere.”
Dad Jack agrees as he holds notes received from valued customer, reflecting thanks for good service, which occasionally includes a “middle-of-the-night” call to his cell phone – which he always answers.
One handwritten note expresses gratitude from a customer who, although she moved to Florida, continues as a customer.
“We are more than happy to mail the medication out to her,” said Jack with a smile.
The pharmacy’s staff is especially proud of the delivery service they provide to greater Pittston and surrounding areas. Much of their clientele is elderly and unable to make the trip to the pharmacy to obtain medications.
“When delivering medications, we do so directly to the customer,” said Jack. “It’s a safety measure and opportunity for additional support for those we serve.”
The pharmacy has access to a compounding lab, preparing medications for customers, customizing them to meet specific needs.
The staff also works closely with prescribing physicians to provide the most appropriate pharmaceuticals. Potential interactions and side effects are carefully monitored.
Seasonal flu shots are also available.
The pharmacy is truly a “family affair,” with son Nicholas, 25, offering his business expertise to improve customer service. He is in charge of ordering, fitting customers for diabetic shoes and overseeing the pharmacy’s nutrition and wellness products.
Daughter Alexandra, a student at Wyoming Seminary, often calls during the summer months to ask “are you busy? do you need any help?”
The pharmacy’s growth and willingness to move toward the future while celebrating the past reflects the revitalization of downtown Pittston, which has sought to improve both the economic and aesthetic landscape of Main Street, while maintaining a sense of history.
When asked about the significance of a mortar and pestle sitting atop a counter in the pharmacy’s back room, Jack simply said, “We still use it.”
In spite of challenges presented from large pharmaceutical chains, mail order businesses and low reimbursement rates, Jack looks to the future of the small family-owned business with confidence.
“We represent quality of service and community spirit,” he said.
Vincent Peck said he looks forward to working beside his father and sharing his vision for many years to come.
