Is there a liquor store near Grand Junction? let me tell you a story
During the mid 80's on one of my many soiree's on the CZ and before I got sober, they did not restock the lounge car in Salt Lake on Sunday. There were several of us imbibing heavily on this particular journey and the lounge attendant made it clear our trip on the other side of the Inland Sea would be sans beverage.
Having made a liquor run at GJ on previous trips I collected some cash from my new found friends, and as we arrived early with plenty of time off the Zeph I went. One thing led to another (a story for a different kind of message board) and I missed the train, but had substantial amounts of cash. I had prudently taken my ticket with me and the Lords of Amtrak granted me a sleeper on the next day's train. I boarded gleefully with new fond warm memories of GJ.
On arriving in Oakland I detrained and walked toward the station with the knowledge my luggage was probably there. In the old days Amtrak was awesome in terms of service and having already remunerated the SCA guessed that my luggage would be waiting. Indeed it was along with one very large athletic gentleman who had contributed to the refuel kitty. Recognizing my peril I became proactive and greeted him with a smile and a hearty hello. His gruff response was "where is my cash?" If I had been lucky he would have been a Pioneer or Desert Wind passenger but alas this was not my fate.
"No worry my friend" I replied, "here is your sawbuck and another for your trouble. My apologies."
A broad smile crossed his face as he accepted the cash and went on his way.
Now if the liquor store is still there I do not know, I can only hope if it is there current staff is as cordial as those present for my ancient encounter. Me? I am happy for twenty years in AA.
