Locally Owned Grand Junction Store Closes After 18 Years
Grand Junction just said "goodbye" to another locally owned and operated business. Farewell, Johny's Beer & Liquor.
Between COVID-19 and the election, this local story slipped through the cracks. After a successful 18-year run, the owner of a Grand Junction liquor store has decided to ride off into the sunset and embark on a fun-filled retirement.
Sadly, this week alone, we've published several posts regarding the closing of local businesses. Between Benges and the Rite Aid stores, Grand Junction is losing a number of retail outlets in the early part of November.
The proprietor, John Carson, or as most of you know him, Johny, made the announcement on Facebook back on October 8. The store closed for good late last week.
Johny's occupied the easternmost unit in the plaza at 2648 Patterson Road, directly across from St. Mary's. As you know, that's a jumpin' corner. The place was busy. Looking back over the years, that unit was always a hot spot. If my memory is at all reliable, that same unit was home to the old 7-11 convenience store back in the 70's and early 80's.
If the name Johny Carson rings a bell, it should. For years, going back to the early 1990's or even sooner, Johny was the keyboard/pedal steel player for the popular Western Colorado band Ralph N' Clyde. He went to perform with several other area bands including the Road Dawgs and the Loose Canon Band. Back in 1995 I ran into Johny in Kerrville, Texas, while he was on the road with the Road Dawgs and I was touring with a similar Country group. John's been a part of the entertainment scene for a very long time.
Well, like he says in a Johny's Beer & Liquor Facebook post, "Sorry to say everyone, but Johny's Beer & Liquor has permanently closed. Thanx for 18 great years."
Thank you, Johny, for 18 years of service to this community. We hope you have a joyous retirement filled with fun and adventure.