Jo and Eddie’s Bar: Remembering an Iconic East Palestine Establishment

In the heart of East Palestine near the railroad tracks, there once stood a beloved establishment called Jo and Eddie’s Bar. Although it has been closed for years, it lives on in the memories of those who frequented it and in the lyrics of a song on Susan Wojnar & Company’s latest album.

A Song that Immortalizes Jo and Eddie’s Bar

Susan Wojnar, a singer-songwriter based in Youngstown, spent a significant amount of time at Jo and Eddie’s Bar in her younger years. To honor the iconic watering hole, she wrote a song simply titled “Jo and Eddie’s Bar,” which can be found on her recently released album, “Starz on the Water.”

An Album with Stories to Tell

“Starz on the Water” is Wojnar’s third album, her first in over a decade. Each of the 11 songs on the album holds a special story behind it, including the tale of Jo and Eddie’s Bar. Wojnar describes the bar as a place that seemed to exist outside of time, disconnected from the rest of the world. It served as a hiding place for locals who sought refuge from the chaos of the outside world.

Transporting Listeners Back in Time

Despite its closure, Jo and Eddie’s Bar continues to captivate the imagination of those who listen to the song. It paints a vivid picture of what the bar might have been like, transporting listeners back in time. Wojnar’s ability to tell stories through her music is a testament to her skills as a songwriter and storyteller.

The Band Behind the Album

Wojnar assembled a talented backing band of music-scene veterans to record “Starz on the Water.” Tom Mechling on bass, Bill Fischer on guitar, and Sam Orrico on drums bring a folky rock flair to the album, perfectly complementing Wojnar’s heartfelt lyrics.

From Bars to Wineries: Wojnar’s Musical Journey

Wojnar’s musical career spans over four decades, starting with her early days in various bands. From blues to R&B, and rock, she has immersed herself in different genres. In recent years, she has found success as a solo artist, performing at wineries, breweries, and listening rooms throughout the region.

A Multi-Talented Artist

Aside from her musical pursuits, Wojnar is also a counselor at Compass Family and Community Services. In addition, she recently published a book of poems titled “White Darkness: Poetic Tales of the Schizophrenic Experience.” These deeply personal poems aim to shed light on the misunderstood and often feared condition of schizophrenia.

A Bright Future for Susan Wojnar

With the release of her new album and the positive reception of her book, Wojnar’s future as a musician and writer looks promising. Her ability to connect with audiences through her heartfelt lyrics and insightful poems has earned her recognition and touched the hearts of many.

Susan Wojnar and her band will be performing at Westside Bowl in Youngstown on October 26th for a record release show. Fans can also catch her at various venues in the region, including Brothers Lounge in Cleveland for the annual Breastfest benefit show on October 22nd.

Source: The Business Journal