Judy Kunza (1940-2012) opened Jo'Dee's in 1970. Over the years, it became Racine's one and only queer safe space, as well as an outspoken champion for the local community and related causes. For years, Jo'Dee's was the second longest-operating gay bar in the state. Faced with a declining neighborhood, increasing costs, and the absence of Judy's visionary leadership, Jo'Dees closed permanently in May 2014 after 44 years in business.