Central Drug Store in San Francisco will close after over a century of service

In the Excelsior District of San Francisco, the Central Drug Store, a local pharmacy, is set to close its doors on July 15, 2025, marking the end of over 100 years of service to the community. Owner Jerry Tonelli, who began working there in 1949 after graduating from UCSF's pharmacy school, announced his retirement. Throughout his tenure, Tonelli became a trusted figure for many locals, often being described as a source of support for customers during difficult times. The store has been a vital resource for those without health insurance, particularly for older patients who rely on familiar and direct access to their medications. As the pharmacy prepares to shut down operations, many long-time customers, including Fran Colombo, have expressed their sadness over the closure, highlighting the personal relationships built over decades. This closure raises concerns about how the local community will navigate their healthcare needs without this essential service, especially for those who prefer traditional in-person interactions. On the other hand, another significant closure is happening in Yonkers, where the historic Domino sugar refinery will close at the end of this year. After operating for more than a century, it will result in the loss of 300 jobs and impact the local economy, which heavily relies on its presence. The decision to shut down the refinery, part of an "optimization plan" by the corporate owner ASR, stirs economic fears in a community that has depended on the facility for long-term employment and community partnerships. Both closures reflect wider trends impacting small businesses and long-standing local industries, with communities grappling with the implications of losing such crucial community fixtures.