Ununsual Pairing Makes for Good Business

In 1973, Lou Kaducak, a young pharmacist, who had been only out of college three years, opened Channahon Ranch Pharmacy and Linda’s Hallmark.

“It was the best thing I did,” Kaducak said. “It has been good to us.”

The business has been successful for 38 years.

On Feb. 3, Channahon Village President Joe Cook presented Lou and his wife Linda with the 2010 Fred Rittoff/George Sparagis Award for Business at the State of the Village Address. The to the oldest family owned business in the village.

“I was very excited,” Kaducak said. “I was happy we were recognized.”

Channahon Ranch Pharmacy and Linda's Hallmark began at a different location, but 19 years ago moved to its current location on Eames.

Kaducak takes pride in the fact that at his pharmacy, a customer will never have to wait more than 20 minutes for their prescriptions. Plus there is always the opportunity to speak to the pharmacist on a one-to-one basis.

His wife Linda, is in charge of the Hallmark Gold Crown Store. Kaducak said it’s the only one in the area and its a great asset to the business. Many customers take advantage of using their Hallmark Gold Crown Card and coupons when buying greeting cards and other gifts found in the Hallmark store, he said. This years Valentine’s Day business was exceptionally high he added.

Channahon Ranch Pharmacy also provides its customers with a mix of products to buy. There are various types of candy; some that can’t be found in the grocery stores. Customers can buy magazines, Yankee Candles, toys, cosmetics and toiletries. Food products, such as milk, juice and canned goods are also available for purchase.

Occasionally, Kaducak will be invited to speak about pharmaceutical careers. Recently he spoke to a group of students at the Joliet Job Corps Center about becoming a pharmacy technician.