CJ's Bar and Grill in Monroe announces it's closing

For the second week in a row, a local business has announced it is closing its doors due to struggles from the COVID-19 pandemic. CJ’s Bar and Grill in Monroe cited the cancellation of large events as one of the reasons it would no longer be able to remain in business.

“I have been waiting to post this because anyone who knows me knows that this is killing me,” owner Carolyn Daniels said. “It is with an extremely heavy heart that we must decide to say good-bye.”

Daniels said she hoped to keep the bar and grill open until the annual Old Settlers celebration but with the announcement it would not take place this year and many other big events canceled, she was no longer able to stay open. Along with events no longer on the schedule, she said the business got “zero help in grants or government loans” to bridge the gap due to pandemic struggles.

“I absolutely loved owning it, it was my dream to own my own bar and restaurant,” Daniels said. “I will greatly miss all of our regular customers and I am saddened about not being able to host special kid events like our kids Halloween party and our kids’ movie day at Christmas break. Or our community Thanksgiving Dinner, dance classes and the number of other events we hold.”

A closing party for the business is set for June 27 to help them “go out as we came in, with a party of course.” Drink specials will be plentiful and Karaoke by Krazy Karaoke will be on hand for entertainment.

“I am very saddened and heartbroken over the whole thing. It was a pleasure to serve everyone for the last four and a half years,” Daniels said. “Now, I have to figure out what next adventure awaits me next.”

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com