Vector Brewing recently released a special pilsner in honor of late Good Records co-owner Chris Penn.
Penn, who was severely injured and paralyzed after a fall at Good Records in March, died from his injuries on April 23 after over a month in the hospital at the age of 54. The beloved East Dallas music figure’s injury and eventual death led to an outpouring of support from the community, with a GoFundMe page organized in benefit of his family raising over $200,000.
When Vector Brewing owner Craig Bradley heard about Penn’s injury, he says the idea for a commemorative brew quickly followed.
“We immediately knew,” Bradley said. “We were like, ‘I want to do something to help him out, help out his family and help out his recovery and everything.’ And then, unfortunately, we heard the terrible news that he’d passed. So suddenly the beer became more in honor of him.”
Bradley first met Penn at Good Records after moving from Austin in 2005. In his time with Lakewood Brewing, Bradley would donate beer to Good Records for annual record store events, where he and Penn further connected.
“I just remember him being the most exuberant, fun, passionate guy for music and everything. And he was just the biggest fan of live music and going to see music, keeping the party going, and all of that kind of thing. He was just such a kind, nice guy. And so that’s what I’ll always remember about him.”
Penn Pals, a 5.5% ABV West Coast-style Pilsner, was released on May 29 at a special release party at Goodfriend Beer Garden and Burger House. Described as “bright and floral, with nods of fresh lemongrass, citron, and honeydew,’ the hoppy, crisp pilsner is available on tap at the brewery and to go in 16-ounce four packs.
Proceeds from Penn Pals will be donated to Penn’s family, which includes his wife, Jenn, and three sons.
“We wanted to kind of give back for everything he’s given to me,” Bradley said.
Vector Brewing is located at 9850 Walnut Hill Ln.