On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy carried out a surprise military attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. President Roosevelt referred to this day as “a date which will live in infamy.” Each year, we pause to honor and remember those who lost their lives on the historic day we refer to as Pearl Harbor Day.
Coincidently, it was that same day, December 7, 1941, when Howard and Rosemary Joynes set out on their vision of building a premier shopping experience on Lake Superior’s North Shore. They planted a small seed in downtown Grand Marais, nurtured it, and 73 years later their dream has grown into today’s Joynes Department Store and Ben Franklin. For those who live in the community, it’s an essential staple. For those who visit Grand Marais, the store is recognized as a North Shore icon.
Since Howard’s passing, the direction and future of our family business has been questioned. Earlier this year, our direction was confirmed and I can say with confidence that the future has never looked brighter.
With this transition, I’ve had the opportunity to spend a little more time in the community where I grew up. The days I’ve spent in the store have given me frontline interaction with the people who make up our community. It has reconfirmed what I knew growing up in Cook County—this is a wonderful part of the world and is a community comprised of wonderful people. Your comments and words of encouragement are energizing and greatly appreciated.
The understanding, patience, and support from our staff has amazed me. They have been asked to step up and have gone above and beyond. The addition of Jean as our team leader has made this transition virtually seamless. She has quickly, comfortably and confidently become the heart and soul of our organization. As a team, our goal is to provide our customers with a continuation of Howard and Rosemary’s vision: a premier shopping experience.
It is often said, “If Joynes doesn’t have it, you don’t need it.” As you walk through the doors, you know this really is “No Ordinary 5 & Dime.”
Jim Joynes
Grand Marais
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