Owner Of Wauwatosa's Lucky Joe's Says 'Things Need To Change'

WAUWATOSA, WI — Jarod Packard, co-owner of Lucky Joe's at 1427 Underwood Ave. says he's seen what's been happening in the U.S., and is grateful that he has the freedom to make his feelings known.

"I love my country, love my guns, and love having the freedom to express myself in any way I want, that being said: What’s been going on in this country is wrong and needs to change," he wrote Wednesday in a Facebook post. "Black lives matter. It’s as simple as that, and until we all start loving one another we will never be able to move forward. The hate that I’ve seen is so disheartening and I don’t understand it, but I’m here to learn and move forward."

Packard described himself as neither a democratic nor republican supporter, only saying "I'm a person that was brought up to do the right thing."

Packard said he's got one of the few restaurants in Wauwatosa whose dining area remains closed, and that it's borne out of a necessity to help those around him in the way he sees fit.

"There are a lot of important things happening right now, and for me to do my part to keep others around me safe is my choice just as it is your choice to open up and save your business if that’s what you need," he wrote. "My family, friends, staff, customers and community mean a lot to me and this is my way to show that."

Packard told Patch that Lucky Joe's is open for curbside pickup, and they have a couple tables outside for seating.