Atlas Aquarium is more than just fish
Atlas Aquarium finds, meets customers’ demands
By Gypsy Crow
ALBANY — Hidden away on Palmyra Road in Albany is a small shop where customers can find a little bit of exactly what they’re looking for. That is, if what they’re looking for happens to be an ATV, skateboard parts, or a new koi fish for their pond. Atlas Aquarium has adapted from once being one of the area’s only pet stores to being a business that survives on finding and meeting local demand.
Dorothy Bailey, a Massachusetts native, started the business around 33 years ago after her husband became ill and encouraged her to do something to take care of herself. She went into the fish business because, well, she loves fish.
“I was just interested in fish,” Bailey said as she laughed and told a visitor about her friends in the tanks and ponds. “I like them all so much; in fact, some of them I hate to sell. I get so attached to them I’ll say, ‘Well, that one there is my favorite one,’ and they buy that one so I don’t tell (customers) anymore which one is my favorite.”
Bailey has a warm, grandmotherly air to her that is infectious. Once she knows that the customer will be kind to her fish, she becomes giggly and loving in a way that makes you want to come back to visit Atlas Aquarium. Behind the counter and hidden throughout the shop are mementos and treasures gifted to Bailey from her most loyal customers.
“I could never just stay at home all day,” Bailey said of being an 83-year-old business owner. “I love my customers. I come here every day because I can’t wait to see who will come in that day.”
Outside of the aquarium are their ATVs and fish ponds. Atlas Aquariums repairs ATVs, but staff no longer repairs fish tanks. Bailey said that she will be happy to teach customers how to take care of their own tanks instead. The establishment’s lineup of ATVs include anything from dirt-bikes to mopeds.
Atlas Aquarium takes pride and care in all of its products and vows to offer customers the best for their money. For fish owners looking to support a local business, this is a great place to start.
Atlas Aquarium is located at 2810 Palmyra Road. Call (229) 435-7395 for more information.
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