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Reports of the impending death of the Elmwood Pharmacy and its ever-popular Ozzie’s soda fountain have been greatly exaggerated, said Victoria Carter, the second-generation owner of the pharmacy. 

“We just signed a five-year lease,” she said, “and we’re going to be doing a restoration.” 

The interior of the building at 2900 College Ave. is showing its age, and Carter’s repairs will restore the space to its former glories, she said. 

One other change is in the works, she acknowledged, and that’s the name of her business. 

Because Carter closed out the prescription drug side of the business, state law forbids the continued use of “pharmacy” in the name. 

Instead, the store will henceforth be known as Elmwood Health & Mercantile and Ozzie’s Soda Fountain. 

Carter is currently distributing a marketing survey to customers, asking such things as what items they’d like to see her stock and what hours the business should keep. 

“We’re here to stay,” said Michael Hogan, who operates the soda fountain. 

—Richard Brenneman