View All Restaurants That Have Outdoor Seating

As the warmth and relaxedness of the spring season imbues us, the streets of downtown Lincoln become animated with window shoppers, sidewalk vendors and the amiable sounds of those who dine on outdoor patios. Temperatures hover between 75 and 85. The winds are calm. The insects are not quite out in full force. It certainly is a wonderful time of year to eat outside, so we begin to take a look at just a few restaurants that make up downtown’s lively outdoor dining scene. 

One of the most well-known areas downtown to eat outside over the lunch hour is along 14th Street. At the corner of 14th and O is Gourmet Grill, a Greek restaurant that’s been downtown for over 30 years that provides one of the bigger patios in the area. Heading north down 14th you’ll pass NuVibe Juice & Java, but don’t let the name fool you because they also serve soups, salads and sandwiches that you can enjoy on their cozy patio nested right out front of their main entrance.

At 14th and P is Noodles & Company, whose outdoor seating is about ten feet up from the street level where diners can gaze up at the new Urban 38 building to the north. On the west side of 14th, you’ll find outdoor seating in front of both Jimmy John’s and Doozy’s, both offering tables complete with umbrellas, and sandwiches that have made them staples to the downtown lunch scene.

Jimmy John’s

It’s almost impossible to mention downtown sandwich shops without also mentioning Highnooners Deli on 14th and O who’ve been serving Lincolnites since 1987 with ingredients bought locally. Other patios on O Street towards Centennial Mall fill up quickly over the lunch hour at restaurants like Yia Yia’s Pizza, Oso Burrito and Lazzari’s Pizza.

Walking through the Haymarket, it’s obvious how important outdoor seating is to both customers and businesses. Two of the most popular morning spots in the Haymarket are The Mill at 8th and P, and Bread & Cup at 8th and S which both feature a large, covered seating area outside like many of the restaurants in the Haymarket. Buzzard Billy’s at 8th and Q and Brewsky’s at 8th and P have the largest outdoor dining areas downtown and remain some of the most frequented lunch and dinner destinations for those who wish to dine with a large number of people.

Lazlo’s, photo Via

A couple of places downtown that have nontraditional outdoor seating are Qdoba Mexican Grill on 12th and P, and Sam & Louie’s Pizza on 13th and P. Qdoba offers a rooftop patio on the second floor that has a few tables that overlook the rooftop garden of the Arbor Day Foundation building, and also have large windows in the main room that are open on nice days that overlook the Lincoln Grand. Along P Street, Sam & Louie’s has a fenced in patio that houses a number of tables all underneath a roof to create a unique half-indoor, half-outdoor dining experience.

In addition to all of the wonderful restaurants that provide space for their customers to enjoy dining in the open air, the Lincoln Community Foundation Gardens, located behind The Korn Popper on 14th and N, features tables with umbrellas and benches and has become a popular lunch spot for business meetings and class outings. Staying true to its name, the gardens feature an abundance of trees and foliage, as well as some peaceful fountains and thought-provoking art. From May through August, Arts Incorporated puts on a free concert series every Wednesday at noon at the Foundation Gardens, which helps solidify the area as one of the hidden treasures of downtown Lincoln. For this year’s Garden Performance Series lineup, click here. Watch a video of a performance there last year here.

Lincoln Community Foundation Gardens

Other events downtown around this time of year provide opportunities to eat outdoors like at the Haymarket Farmer’s Market which takes place every Saturday in the Haymarket from 8:00 am till noon, the Jazz in June Market which takes place every Tuesday in June from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm and also at Celebrate Lincoln, a festival that will take place all day on both June 8th and 9th at 14th and N.

With close to 35 restaurants downtown that have outdoor seating, there’s a place for everyone to enjoy this beautiful spring weather and their lunch or dinner at the same time!

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For a complete listing of downtown restaurants that have outdoor seating, click here.

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Downtown Lincoln’s street resurfacing project milled the south lane on L Street today, officially kicking off a street project which will mill and overlay approximately 6 miles of roadway surfacing on 11 streets in the Lincoln Central Business District. 

Downtown Lincoln’s street resurfacing project milled the south lane on L Street today, officially kicking off a street project which will mill and overlay approximately 6 miles of roadway surfacing on 11 streets in the Lincoln Central Business District. 

Pavers Inc. is completing construction of the pedestrian curb ramps along “M” Street from 14th to 17th Streets and is starting on the ramps along “N” Street from 9th to 14th Streets this week. Watts Electric Co. continues to work on the removal and replacement of the traffic signal at the 14th and “N” Street intersection and anticipates being done by the end of next week. Upon completion of the new signal at 14th and “N” Streets, Watts Electric Co. will begin working on replacing the traffic signal at 9th and “Q” Streets. Milling and overlaying operations will begin with the “L” and “K” Street corridors. Digital message boards will be used to notify the public when milling and overlaying is expected to start for each corridor. A signed pedestrian detour route will be provided for all work impacting sidewalk access.

The City is currently planning to construct this work under traffic utilizing lane closures, however, there may be times when north or southbound traffic is temporarily detoured while asphalt is being placed in the intersections. Pavers Inc. has not requested any full closures at this time. On-street parking will be temporarily impacted while work in or adjacent to those parking areas is completed. The City is working to designate alternate handicap parking stalls for those impacted by lane closures. Access to businesses, residences, and parking garages will be maintained, however, there may be instances when access is limited.

To receive more construction updates or to sign up for future notifications via email, click here.

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Taura Horn Photography

It was a mildly chilly day that seemed amiss in the slew of warm, sunny days Lincoln had throughout April, but that didn’t stop 676 shoppers, volunteers and retailers from enjoying the latest in spring fashion at the spring edition of Shop the Blocks.

It was a mildly chilly day that seemed amiss in the slew of warm, sunny days Lincoln had throughout April, but that didn’t stop 676 shoppers, volunteers and retailers from enjoying the latest in spring fashion at the spring edition of Shop the Blocks.

The event took place on Thursday, April 19th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, and saw 21 downtown shops and 18 restaurants and caterers partner up to give event-goers a memorable night of food, fun and fashion.

Participating retailers were nested between O and Q Streets and 10th and 14th Streets, and were thrilled to see the hundreds of curious new faces inside their stores.

Shop the Blocks saw an estimated total of 7,500 store visits from attendees who delighted in a wide variety of drinks and appetizers within each store and who took advantage of the enticing discounts each retailer had to offer.

In addition to providing retailers with a notable night of revenue, the event proved to be a great marketing opportunity as many store owners helped acquaint shoppers who were unfamiliar with shopping downtown and also handed out postcards with special May discounts to encourage their return.

Photo courtesy of Monica Rentschler

The free chauffeur service provided by Luxury Limousine, the festive pom-poms that embellished each storefront and the hundreds of shoppers that teemed through the streets lent themselves to the unmistakable energy and excitement of the evening.

The Shop the Blocks after-party was held at Hour Lounge for a second time where over $2,000 in gift cards, swag bags and other prizes were doled out to shoppers in the VIP prize drawing.

Photo courtesy of Taura Horn

One out of every 12 shoppers who turned in their shopping passports had visited every single one of the 21 participating stores, and were entered into a separate drawing to win additional prizes.

The second go-around for Shop the Blocks drew 200 more people than its inaugural event back in November 2011, and ushered in more than $50,000 for downtown stores over the course of four hours.

To ensure its continued success, the semi-annual event is actively seeking a presenting sponsor for the next Shop the Blocks which is scheduled to take place in November 2012.

With two successful events in the books, downtown retailers have praised Shop the Blocks for spurring a night of economic growth in an area that often gets overlooked for its lack of shopping malls and department stores. The event has served as a catalyst to help hundreds of people become more familiar with the diverse mix of boutiques and retailers downtown has to offer, and is helping to make the area a year-round shopping destination.

Photo courtesy of Taura Horn

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-To view pictures of the event taken by downtown photography studio Taura Horn Photography, click here.

-To view the promo video for the last event, click here.

-Visit Shop the Blocks on Facebook.

-For more information on the event, visit http://www.shoptheblocks.com.

Visit SOAP on Facebook

Downtown Lincoln will soon have a full-service laundromat as SOAP Modern Coin Laundry moves into its new home at 16th and O this April. The new business will cater to a wide variety of people, ranging from those who need their laundry done once, to those who prefer to have their laundry done for them on a regular basis. We had the opportunity to chat with Carrie Waltemath, whose family owns the laundromat, to learn more about the types of services they offer.

• How did SOAP come to be?

Carrie: My family and I had brainstormed about the idea of a “new spin on laundry” a few years ago. When Lyn and Glen, my in-laws approached us (my husband, sister in law, brother in law and myself) about it, we were all very excited about the idea! We felt that this was a service that Lincoln did not offer and thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to have a family business! 

• What about downtown Lincoln made you want to start your business here?

Carrie: We loved the convenient downtown location! We want to accommodate everyone who needs to do laundry, whether it is the busy UNL student just down the street who is too busy to do laundry and would just prefer to prepay and drop it off and pick it up! Or the busy professional who works downtown who would like to take advantage of the drop off and pick up service we offer. Or for those who prefer to do their own laundry in a clean and contemporary environment! 

• What sets your Laundromat apart from others in Lincoln?

Carrie: There are many things that set SOAP apart! Among them, brand new washers and dryers including the largest machines in Lincoln, weekly specials, clean and inviting, FREE Wi-Fi, large flat screen cable TVs, 24-hour surveillance, laundromat attended 7 days a week Mon-Sat 9-6 and Sun 12-6, drop off and pick up services, student plans, a charging station for laptops or other electronic devices, FREE parking in back, and excellent customer service- you will feel at home!   

• Can you tell us about some of the services you offer?

Carrie: We offer drop off and pick up for $1.20 per lb. Drop off your laundry at SOAP. Our attendants will sort, wash, fold and dry your laundry. Pick up your clean clothes neatly folded and tucked away in your new SOAP duffel bag. Each week on laundry day, stuff your clothes into the SOAP duffel bag and drop it off to us. We will return it clean each week with your laundry. Comforters, blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, mattress pad can be dropped off and picked up for a one-time charge and we do ironing as well. See price sheet on our website!

• How many washers/dryers do you have?

Carrie: We have about 30 large washers and 22 large dryers. They are all brand new, stainless steel front loader machines! We have six sizes of washers, depending on your laundry needs. The smallest size we have is a double loader and the largest size we have can hold nine loads on laundry! 

• Can you tell us about your student plans?

Carrie: Students sign up for one of our five programs based on how many loads they do a week on average. See chart below for description of student plan. 

Sign up and we will set you up with a huge SOAP duffel bag to hold all your dirty clothes. Load your bag with all your laundry and drop it off on your way to class. Our attendants will sort, wash, dry and fold everything for you. Pick it up after class, neatly folded and tucked away in your clean duffel bag. 

• Anything else you’d like to say about your Laundromat?

Carrie: We want to make laundry a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Come visit us at SOAP!  Please visit our website http://www.soaplincoln.com to see all we have to offer! Thanks! 

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SOAP Modern Coin Laundry
116 S. 16th Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
402.200.8298
contactus@soaplincoln.com

Learn more about SOAP via their website or Facebook page.

Hours- Mon-Sun: 7:00 am - 11:00 pm

Urban 38/Catalyst One Project

We spoke with Mitch Holt of Sampson Construction back in May of 2011 when Urban 38 at 13th/14th and P/Q was still in its infancy. As the outside of the building is nearing completion, Holt, the project manager on the construction of the new mixed-use ten-story building, spoke with us again about the progress of the project.

Click here to view the video interview we did with Mitch last May.

• Are you guys excited to almost be done with the project? 

Mitch: As a project manager, it’s easy to be so focused on the phasing of the project that you lose focus on the process being made each day. Now, it’s almost time to step back and look up - admiring our team’s hard work and that is exciting.

• The last time we talked to you, you were at around the 3rd floor of the building. How has the project progressed since then?

Mitch: We are now on the 10th floor “topped out” and the drywall finishing is near complete.  We are currently painting and delivering unit finishes in the residential space.  So, our team is working on the housing portion of the building.  The exterior façade of the parking garage is nearing completion.

• What are some of the things that still need to be done?

Mitch: The architectural façade items on the exterior, as well as, finish items on the interior still need to be completed. 

• How many retail slots will there be on the first floor once the building is complete?

Mitch: There will potentially be 6 retail tenants on the street level of the building.

• Can you tell us a little bit about the green roof plans for the building?

Mitch: The green roof will cover approximately 8,000 SF with the remaining square footage available for patio space. 

“It will be built using an intensive multi-layer system called Skyscape Vegetative Roof System. Although privately owned, the Parkhaus Green Roof will be used as a demonstration project and tours will be made available for public.  It will also provide a natural landscape that can be viewed by the 155 residential units sheltering it on the east, north, and west sides.” 

- Cited from “The Urban Page” newsletter of the City of Lincoln, Winter 2012 [http://lincoln.ne.gov/city/urban/reports/pdf/urbanpg/v15i4w12.pdf]

• Any other downtown development projects Sampson is a part of at the moment?

Mitch: Sampson is currently working on a several projects in the downtown Lincoln area, which include: the East Stadium Restoration Project; Block 21 (Marriott Hotel); new Farmer’s Mutual office and garage; and phases II and III of the Knoll Hall Center project on the UNL campus. 

• What’s the expected date of completion?

Mitch: Currently the expected completion date is August 1, 2012.

• Anything else you’d like to mention about the building?

Mitch: This project has had a great presence and following throughout its duration.  Sampson Construction would like to take the opportunity to say “thank you” to the Lincoln Community for the support they have shown! 

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For more info on Parkhaus, the building’s residential area, click here.

For Journal Star Articles on the building, see below.
Crane Season High Times in Downtown Construction
Parkhau Apartments in Catalyst One Building Drawing Early Interest
Long Days in a Crane, Alone at the top
Green Roof Planned for Catalyst One Project

Click Here to View Their Full Menu

Sher-E-Punjab

It’s a popular phrase that describes anyone from Punjab, India who’s as brave as a lion, and one that aptly characterizes Bhupinder Singh, owner of a local Indian restaurant that takes its name from the phrase.

Ever since he was a child, Singh had aspirations of opening his own restaurant. He took a chance and moved to the United States from India in 1985, landing in Lincoln two years later.

In September of 2002, after working in the restaurant industry here for over a decade, including a stint at The Oven, Singh opened Sher-E-Punjab, his own authentic Indian restaurant on 16th and Q Streets in Centennial Plaza.

“Since I am from the Punjab, and opening the restaurant had always been a dream of mine, I named the restaurant Sher-E-Punjab,” Singh says.

The restaurant boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and serves a number of Indian dishes cooked in a tandoor that are all gluten-free and many of which are vegetarian-friendly.

“We offer different kinds of vegetable dishes with wide range of spices, and in non-vegetarian dishes, we offer lamb, beef, chicken, shrimp and fish.”

While Singh coyly says everything on the menu is his favorite, some of the dishes he eats most often at his restaurant are the Chicken Tikka Naan (boneless chicken marinated in shahi spices and cooked in the tandoor with a side of bread) and the Chicken Tikka Punjab (Chicken Tikka simmered in a spicy sauce with tomatoes and coconut milk).

The lamb dishes Sher-E-Punjab serves have proved to be very popular and include Lamb do Piaza, Lamb Punjab, Lamb Akbari, Lamb Curry, Lamb Korma, Lamb Vindaloo, Lamb Saag, Lamb Karhai, and Lamb Biryani.

Singh’s restaurant even caters to those who lack an appetite for the traditional spicy Indian dish.

“Though the Indian foods are considered spicy food, we cook our food moderately so that even the first-timer can eat it easily,” he says.

A couple of unique menu items to try include their Spinach Naan and Chicken Tikka Masala.

In addition to their main dishes, the restaurant serves Asian/Indian breads like Naan, Roti and Paratha, Indian beverages like Lassi (a yogurt drink with Indian spices) and Chai (Indian Tea) and Indian desserts like Kheer (rice pudding) and Kulfi (ice cream).

As they approach their 10th anniversary this fall, Sher-E-Punjab has become one of the most sought-after Indian restaurants in the city due to its award-winning cleanliness, amiable customer service and savory food.

“We appreciate the support and help of the Lincoln community and our customers. We’ve been here for the last ten years and we hope we can provide the same level of service in the same location for ten more.”
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To view their lunch and dinner menus, click here.

To view coupons click here.

For more information on Sher-E-Punjab, visit their website or call 402.477.3090.

*Ample parking is available as there is a parking lot on site.

*Sher-E-Punjab caters parties ranging from a few dozen to 500 people.

Sher-E-Punjab
1601 Q St. 68508
402.477.3090
webmaster@sherepunjablincoln.com

Congratulations to all of the downtown businesses/people that won a 2012 Lincoln’s Choice Award!

Those in the downtown area were nominated in 41 out of the 76 categories. These nominees took first place in 29 out of the 41 categories they were in and swept nine categories completely, meaning they took first, second and third. (denoted by *)

Their outstanding achievements are helping to further the development of our downtown as a vibrant place to live, learn, work and play!

For a complete listing of all of this year’s winners, click here.

2012 Lincoln’s Choice Awards-Downtown Winners

Hair Salon and Spa: Tangerine-3rd

Mani/Pedi & Massage: Bella Skin Care & Massage Therapy-1st

Aesthetics: Bella Skin Care & Massage Therapy-2nd

Person Making a Difference: Ann Ringlein (Owner of Lincoln Running Company)-1st

Place to Have a Party: red9-1st

Place for Kids on a Rainy Day: Lincoln Children’s Musum-1st, Paint Yourself Silly-2nd

Place to Take Out of Town Visitor: Haymarket-1st

Place to Feel the Burn: The Y-1st

Sushi: Dozo Sushi-1st

Bar Food: Brewksy’s-1st, Watering Hole-2nd

*Soup & Sandwich: Bison Witches-1st, Panera-2nd, bread&cup-3rd

Steak: Misty’s-1st

Mexican: Tico’s-3rd

Romantic Dinner: Vincenzo’s-1st, DISH-3rd

Locally Owned: Lazlo’s-1st, DISH-3rd

*Coffee Shop: The Mill-1st, Scooter’s-2nd, Starbuck’s-3rd

Sports Bar: Brewsky’s-1st

*Happy Hour: Old Chicago-1st, Starlite Lounge-2nd, Brewsky’s-3rd

*Beer Selection: Yia Yia’s-1st, Old Chicago-2nd, Lazlo’s-3rd

Boutique: Stella-1st

Place to People Watch: Haymarket-1st, Downtown-2nd

Place for a First Date: Lazlo’s-1st, Blue Orchid-2nd

Place to Propose: Haymarket-3rd

Hotel: Embassy-1st, Cornhusker-2nd

*Wings: Watering Hole-1st, Buffalo Wild Wings-2nd, Brewsky’s-3rd

Ice Cream: Ivanna Cone-1st

Pizza: Yia Yia’s-2nd

Burger Joint: Five Guys-2nd

Wine Selection: The Oven-2nd

*Specialty Drink: Starlite Lounge-1st, Cliff’s-2nd, Marz Bar-3rd

Place to Get Game Apparel: Husker Headquarters-1st, Nebraska Bookstore-2nd

*Place to Watch Husker Game: Embassy Suites-1st, Brewsky’s-2nd, N-Zone-3rd

*Tailgate Spot: Embassy Suites(Do The Dock)-1st, Journal Star Parking Lot-2nd, NE Champion’s Club-3rd

*Postgame Hangout: red9-1st, Embassy Suites-2nd, Tavern on the Square-3rd

Jewelry: Sartor Hamann-1st, Fred Witt Jewelers-3rd

Shoe/Accessory Store: Lincoln Running Company-1st

Men’s Clothing: Post & Nickel-3rd

Florist: Abloom-3rd

Screen Printing: Screen Ink-2nd

Bank: Union Bank-1st, Wells Fargo-2nd, Pinnacle Bank-3rd

Customer Service: Union Bank-1st
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Visit Lola’s Lovely Things on Facebook

“Whatever Lola wants, Lola gets.”

This lyric from the 1955 Broadway musical Damn Yankees was one Autumn Bluestone heard often growing up, as it was one of her Grandmother Winnie’s favorites. While at first, Autumn knew it only as a catchy song, the phrase has now become an adage of how she lives her life.

“This is my motto; when we want something in life, we should go after it and enjoy!” she says.

When she was a little girl, one Autumn’s favorite memories was when her grandmother would let her rummage through her jewelry, and she would get to try on a variety of different kinds. 

Inspired by the fond memories of her Grandmother Winnie, she decided to open her own store.

“I’ve always wanted to have my own business, so what better thing to sell than jewelry, especially the vintage kind, like my grandmother had.” 

She left Glendale, Arizona to finish up school and raise her two boys in Lincoln, and from there began an online store called Lola’s Lovely Things. The vintage jewelry and accessory store was exclusively online for a while before moving into its first retail space on 11th & K.
 
But once the owners of the building decided to sell it, Autumn was forced to find new space for her business.

Last Friday, Lola’s Lovely Things was reopened in its new home inside the Creamery Building in the Haymarket, an area of town that Autumn is excited to be a part of, and one that she says has great character. 

“People are drawn to it because it an interesting place to spend time and this makes it a good place to open a business, especially retail or a restaurant.”
 
Autumn’s store has vintage accessories (pre-1990’s) for both men and women that include wallets, necklaces, purses, rings, scarves, neckties, cuff links, pins, brooches, tie tacks, tie bars, as well as cards and other gifts.

Many items in the store are crafted by hand as well.

“About a third of the items in my shop are handmade. I make a lot of jewelry, but it is also made on consignment from local artisans,” the store owner says.

Customers can find a variety of what Lola’s Lovely Things has to offer on their Etsy Page.

“I’m working on getting even more on there in terms of my vintage items and plan to open a separate Etsy for my handmade items.”

Autumn says one of the perks to moving her business downtown is that now she’s able to participate in the First Friday Artwalks.

“I really am looking forward to being part of First Friday! I plan to feature the handmade items to help promote the local, but I have a few other ideas too.” 

With an alluring collection of vintage jewelry and accessories, Lola’s Lovely Things offers a fresh take on fashion downtown inspired by the sophisticated tastes and classic styles of Autumn’s grandmother.

To watch a short performance of “Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets,” the song that inspired the store’s name, click here.

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Lola’s Lovely Things is open Monday-Saturday 11:00 am-7:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 pm-4:00 pm. Appointments can be made as well. 

701 P St. Suite 106, Creamery Bldg., Lincoln, NE 68504
402.805.7019

Visit Lola’s Lovely Things on their Facebook page, Etsy page, or their website.

Visit MHA-NE on Facebook

They’ve been told that their mental illness would hold them back. That they couldn’t get a job. That they couldn’t lead a normal life.

That simply, they could not.

This is something Alan Green has heard far too often.

“Our expectation is that people can. If they’re willing to do it, we’re here to help,” is his reply.

Green is the Executive Director of The Mental Health Association of Nebraska [MHA-NE], a non-profit organization located on 16th and N that offers an array of programs for people with mental health problems or mental illnesses. MHA-NE is entirely consumer-run, meaning that all the programs and services they offer are designed and provided by people who have lived experience with mental health issues.

One such program is HOPE [Higher Opportunities through the Power of Employment], which helps adults living with behavioral health disorders find employment.

“We help them identify what they would like to do and help them get some of the skills if they need them; next we help them find the jobs that they want, and then we help them keep those jobs.” 

Many proponents and family members know that the talents of the individuals are underutilized and often overlooked by employers; this is why MHA-NE does everything in their power to help them seek employment. HOPE says employment can promote mental well-being because it provides the individuals with regular activity in a rigid time structure, social contact and also allows them to develop a social and personal identity.

“But we won’t do it all for them,” Green says. “They have to want to succeed.”

The fact that those who take part in the program have a strong desire to go back to work is the main reason why Green says the HOPE Program’s success rate is very high.

Another program run by MHA-NE is the Keya House, a crisis aversion house that opened in December of 2009 and serves as the foundation to their diversion services.

“It’s like a bed and breakfast; so if you had issues that you’re living with and those issues start to stack up on you, and you’re able to identify them ahead of time, you can go to Keya house for up to five days and work with trained peers for solutions to lessen the impact of those issues with the goal of keeping you out of the hospital or the need for higher level care.”

“Keya” is the Lakota word for “turtle,” which is revered as a symbol of good health, long life and adaptation, as turtles can easily adapt to life in and out of water.

The house is located in the Indian Village Neighborhood on south 14th street and Green says individuals can come and go as they wish. The house has serviced around 170 people, some of which have returned for multiple stays.

“It’s really a cool program and one of only 12 similar programs in the country. Our first year data showed that three out of four people who had a history of using higher level service before coming to Keya, haven’t gone back to that level of service.”

The phone number at the Keya House also doubles as a warm-line, so individuals who just need someone to talk to or help them problem solve can speak to one of the trained peers to help them through their issue.

Green says data from last year indicated that the satisfaction rate for the house was remarkably high and that the only complaints they received were about how there’s only one house in town and how individuals would’ve liked to stay longer than five days.

“The majority of the folks that are now associated with the house were guests of the house at one time, and that’s what’s really neat. All they need is the opportunity and the encouragement.”

Keya House

Green says the folks at Indian Village have been wonderful to work with and even help decorate the house during the holidays and plant flowers in the spring. The staff at MHA-NE belongs to the neighborhood association and one employee is even on the neighborhood’s board of directors. The organization loves to give tours of the house, but they ask that people call ahead of time and set up a showing out of privacy for the guests.

In July of last year, MHA-NE was awarded money through the Community Health Endowment to expand their diversion services and they now have peers working in the Bryan LGH Psych-Emergency Department every day of the week.

“Bryan has been very receptive and supportive of the program, and everybody’s really happy with how it’s all coming about because it’s still fairly new, but it has already had a significant impact on helping people who are dealing with severe psychological issues that go to the emergency department.”

The endowment fund also allows the MHA-NE peers to work more closely with the Lincoln Police Department.

“When the officers go out on a mental health call or a wellness check and they come across somebody that doesn’t need to go to the hospital, the officer then emails our peers with the particulars, and the peers then contact the individuals to see if there’s anything they can do- even get them involved in some our recovery programs- with the idea that the cops don’t have to get involved again, and that person stays in the community.”

In addition to the various programs and services they offer, MHA-NE also hosts a couple of events each year in downtown Lincoln.

On Saturday, April 7, the organization will hold its fourth annual Jammin’ Away the Blues fundraiser at the Bourbon Theatre. The event will feature live music from national Blues performer Kenny Neal, as well as local blues bands The Lil’ Slim Blues Band and The Blues Project.

Jammin’ Away the Blues 2011

“The event starts at 7:00 pm and goes until midnight; it should be a lot of fun. It’s a great time to listen to good music and a great time to celebrate all the good things that are happening.” 

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of; they can be purchased through the Bourbon Theatre here. For more info on the event, click here.

For the second year in a row, the organization will host the statewide Behavioral Health Conference at the Cornhusker Hotel that will take place from May 21-23.

“We have over 300 consumers, providers and policy people all in the same room and everybody’s talking and learning from each other. It worked out really well last year, and the state liked what we did and gave us money to do it again this year.”     

Each year, MHA-NE helps hundreds of people through their employment and diversion services. They’ve established the people and places that individuals with mental health disorders can turn to when they need help the most, and have opened their doors to them when so many others have turned them away.

“When I started, I was the only employee; now we have about 21 people on payroll. Just about every one of them was at some point in their life told that they would never amount to anything. But after being a part of the program, they saw that they could, and now they’re involved with it; that’s probably the most rewarding thing about it all.”

For more info on the Mental Health Association of Nebraska, visit their website or Facebook page.
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Mental Health Association of Nebraska
1645 N St, Suite A
Lincoln, NE 68508
402.441.4371

The HOPE program on Facebook
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Visit Love Equals on Facebook

When Ben and Renee Welstead met for the first time while working at a summer camp in high school, they had no idea that it was the beginning of an inspirational journey that would eventually help touch the lives of hundreds of families in both Nebraska and Haiti.

The two married in 2003, and Renee began a career as a professional photographer two years later. In 2007, the couple began shooting as a team and eventually decided to start their own fine-art portrait and wedding studio in downtown Lincoln.

“The idea was actually born on our anniversary and we were trying to think through how we could do wedding photography, but in a way we both believed in and one that wouldn’t compromise our values or be gimmicky,” Renee says.

After months of formulating their new studio’s identity, Love Equals was born on June 8th, 2009.

Housed on the second floor of the Mission Arts Building on 9th and O, the studio offers an array of services that include wedding ceremonies, family portraits, senior portraits and some commercial work.

Ben and Renee Welstead

Love Equals has quickly garnered an admirable reputation as a result of Ben and Renee’s diligent and amicable personalities. While the studio has helped capture the smirks, grins and love of hundreds of clients, perhaps what makes the studio so special is the altruism that lies within its name.

“We wanted a part of our wedding or session money to go to Haiti; that’s where the inspiration for the name came from. When we think about people in love or families that love each other, hiring us will equal food, water, clothing and education for orphans of Haiti.”

The couple has made the 2,000+ mile trek to the Caribbean country eight times since 2007, the year they were initially inspired to go through their church. Renee says each trip lasts about a week and consists of documentary work and working with medical professionals to set up clinics at various schools and orphanages.

“A lot of our clinics are set up outdoors under a tree, so we set up triage stations, nursing stations and doctor stations, as well as a pharmacy. We’re really passionate about not only showing what the current conditions are in Haiti, but also showing people that it’s not all just devastation there, there is a lot of hope. We can really be inspired by their resilience.”

In addition to helping out at clinics, Renee says she and Ben also enjoy spending time photographing, playing with kids and simply interacting with the people as they walk throughout the different neighborhoods.

In 2011, the couple raised $3,000 that was donated for food, water, clothing, education and medical care for Haitian orphans.

As a photographer, Renee says she’s been thankful to have been able to be such an intimate part of the lives of Haitians and of those who commemorate their love in Nebraska by hiring Love Equals.

“There are families that I’ve worked with when I did their engagement, wedding and then through maternity with their first child, second child and third child. Even throughout my career, coming up on eight years, I’ve been able to work with some of the same people throughout that span. It’s pretty incredible to get to be a part of their family story that way.”

Being able to work with her husband every day is pretty incredible too.

“Just getting to do what we want and getting to work together is a huge part of learning to be married. Working together is sometimes challenging-we don’t always agree-but it’s definitely worth it.”

Ben and Renee feel that working professionally together as a married couple puts them in a unique position to better understand the commitment that couples make to each other and allows them to better appreciate the opportunity they’ve been given to photograph one of the most important days of a person’s life.

“My husband and I really care about marriage,” Renee says. “We really feel that it’s a privilege to work with people making such a huge decision. We tell them it won’t always be easy and that you won’t always feel the way you feel right now, but our hope is that you’ll look back on these images, remember that commitment that you’ve made, and hopefully they’ll help you get through those harder times.” 

Ben and Renee also take part in the Don’t Give Up Project, an organization created by Jeremy and Ashley Parsons out of Kansas City that is a community of photographers across the globe that stand behind the idea of marriage in order to better create images that matter.

“We’re a group of photographers that recognize that we don’t want to be a part of the industry, that we want to be people that stand for meaning in photographs and for marriage, and that’s more important to us than being a popular wedding photographer.”

Love Equals takes on a pretty low number of weddings each year, around ten to 12, so that they can really connect with the people they work with.

“We want to spend time with them, we want them to feel comfortable with us, we want to get to know their story, because the more comfortable we are with each other, the more fun and more inspiring our images can be on their wedding day. If we’re just strangers and we show up taking their pictures on such an important day, they won’t feel comfortable or inclined to feel very honest with us because we’re just another vendor, so we really try to connect with our clients before the wedding day.”

In late 2011, the Welstead’s adopted two girls, Cora, 3, and Ruby, 5, through the foster care system. In January of 2012, the Don’t Give Up Project created a short documentary about the family entitled How the Welstead’s Became a Family that can be seen here.

Love Equals does participate in First Friday Artwalks downtown, however, since Ben and Renee adopted the two girls, they haven’t been able to do so as frequently as they’d like.

“We went from zero children to two children really quickly; we’d really like to be doing First Friday consistently, but at this point, it’s more of when we’re able to. But we’re excited about being in the Gallery 9 building because it affords us a lot more opportunities to be involved in that.”

Through their photography, devotion to marriage and desire to give back, the Welstead’s have established Love Equals as a business that understands the importance of adding love to life’s big equation.

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For more information on Love Equals, visit their website, blog or Facebook page.

Click here to learn more about Renee’s commercial work.

Click here to watch a short video of the how the Welstead family came to be.

Love Equals
124 S 9th Street, Studio 9
renee@loveequals.com
402.310.5483

Visit Moore Pawn on Facebook

With over 15 years of experience in loan and retail, Larry Moore knows a thing or two about running a pawn shop. His store, Moore Pawn and Furniture, has been downtown for seven years providing amiable service and a wide variety of discounted items in a showroom of over 20,000 square feet.

Moore Pawn was formerly known as D-Rock’s, then as the franchise Mister Money USA before switching to its current name in the fall of 2008. In addition to the thousands of items they offer, the shop also offers short-term loans that can range up to $50,000 and welcomes customers who are in need of immediate money. Larry runs the shop with the help of his son Matt and a few other employees.

“Like most businesses, we are very grateful for a loyal bunch of customers who have supported us for many years,” Larry says. “The pawn shop business is very rewarding in that we are uniquely positioned to help people in need. For many, we are the last resort available to them. We could take advantage of that and make things worse, however, we like to make sure that we give the customer the best possible deal no matter what the circumstance. I thank God for my customers and a great staff that is very loyal.”

Read on for a short Q&A with Larry to learn more about his shop and pawning in general.

• When did your shop open?

Larry: The shop was started as D-Rock’s Music in 1998 and I purchased it in November 2001. We had to relocate from 21st and O to our current place at 1621 M Street in August 2004

• What can people find at your shop?

Larry: Electronics, jewelry, furniture, tools, music, sporting goods, video games, DVDs, car audio, guns and more.

• How would you explain pawning to someone who has never done it before?

Larry: Pawning is a collateral loan where you bring in an item and we lend you money on that item. You get the item back when you repay the loan plus the fee.

• What’s the most interesting thing you’ve seen come through your shop that someone has sold or pawned?

Larry: We have had some really cool guns come through like a Saginaw M-1 Rifle, a real nice rolex watch, some cool Husker memorabilia and a gas powered fogging machine.

• What would you say is a big misconception about pawn shops?

Larry: That everything brought in is left behind. About 80-85% of all items pawned are picked up.

• Can people sell pretty much anything of value to you or do you have specific items you’re looking for?

Larry: We will take almost anything of value. We look for the same things all merchants want-things that people want and that sell quickly.
 
• Is haggling innate or something that’s learned on the job?

Larry: I would say some are born with this ability. We see others who never ask for a deal. In our shop, we often dicker on price.

• What are some of your methods in determining an item’s value?

Larry: The internet is our best source of info for most things.

• What are your days and hours of operation?

Larry: We’re open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Monday thru Friday, and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday.

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For more information on Moore Pawn and Furniture, visit their website, their Facebook page, or call them at 402.477.5116.

Moore Pawn offers plenty of free off-street parking as well.

Capitol City Barber Shop on Facebook

When customers meet Max Starcic for the first time they learn two things very quickly. The first is that his slight accent hints at his New York roots, and the second is that he has a deep-seeded passion for his profession.

“When I was a kid, I always enjoyed going to a barber shop to get my haircut. Barbering is kind of a social club; I’ve been doing it professionally since I was a teenager, and I just really like working with people.”

After serving in the military and working at a few different barber shops in New York, Starcic, owner of Capitol City Barber Shop, moved to Nebraska in 2006 to be closer to his daughter that lives in Omaha.

In 2007, he saw the opportunity to open up his barber shop on 13th street between L and K Streets, and took it. In 2009, the shop closed temporarily while the building was being sold by the owners, but reopened in September of 2010.

Max, who’s trained in both cosmetology and barbering, says that while his shop mainly caters to men, he does offer a few services for women as well.

When he opened the store, Max says his aim was to give the shop an “old-time atmosphere with modern-day services” which would allow customers to go back in time and enjoy the ambience and services that are reminiscent of traditional barber shops.

Among some of the things that give Capitol City Barber Shop its vintage feel are a couple of barber chairs from 1904 Max bought at an antique store.

“And they still work!” he says with a laugh. 

One of the big draws to the barber shop has been the straight razor shaves that they offer.

“I don’t know of any shop in Lincoln that does a straight razor shave, but I think that’s something that’s coming back. It seems to be most popular with the younger guys that have never had one done before. Along with the hot towel, it’s a very relaxing process.”

Working alongside Max is David Kreifels, a Lincoln native who has been cutting hair for over thirty years and whose uncles once owned Gene-O’s Barbershop and The Straight Edge Barbershop in Lincoln. The two barbers met through the recommendation of Greg Howard, co-owner of the College of Hair Design.

“Max and I are both pretty traditional barbers,” David says. “A lot of scissor and clipper work; that’s kind of our forte. We’re also a good combination of conversation and being pretty Average Joes. We get along with a lot of different types of people.”

David, who has owned a few of his own shops outside of town, says that while it takes years of technical experience to become master barbers like he and Max, the profession also requires learning how to become a great listener.

David Kriefels

“We try not to input too much; we’re just listening. There is an unwritten code of ethics among barbers that we don’t share with others what a customer tells us, but you’d be surprised what people tell a barber,” he says with a laugh.

Max and David say they are looking forward to the aesthetic updates they’re going to do to the shop which will include reorganizing the storefront window and setting up a barber pole light outside. Eventually, the two say they’d also like to add a third barber into the mix.

With an atmosphere that encapsulates the barbershop culture of the mid 1900’s and two barbers who have over half a century of combined barbering experience, Capitol City Barbershop offers friendly and down-to-earth service with all the trimmings.

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Capitol City Barber Shop is open for walk-ins or appointments on Monday thru Friday from 10:00am to 6:00pm, and on Saturday from 10:00am to 3:00pm

Capitol City Barber Shop
427 S. 13th St.
402.438.0015
[plenty of street parking]
capitolcitybarbershop@gmail.com

Visit Capitol City Barber Shop on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/capitolcitybarber.lincoln

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Happy Valentine’s Day! Here are some Facebook status updates from businesses across downtown doing special promotions for Valentine’s Day!

Barrymores
Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone :) Make sure to come down and listen to Matt Marvin play the jazz piano!

Licorice International
Happy Valentine’s Day, Licorice Lovers. Be sure to stop by the shop for a treat . . . not in Lincoln? Order today and we’ll include a FREE SAMPLE of Chocolate-covered Black Kookaburra.

Bodegas
Valentine’s Day SPEED DATING at Bodegas! Cheap drinks, Karaoke, Shot specials, SINGLES NIGHT! Come in and find your Valentine.

Libations
5:00pm until 10:00pm Menu Entrée Choices: Chicken Marsala, Beef Burgundy, Vegetable Crepes,Shrimp Cocktail & Vegetables. Choice of Rice or Potatoes, Dinner Salad & Roll. Dessert choices: Specialty Cheese Cake, Chocolate Torte or Chocolate Covered Strawberries. Beverages included: coffee, tea or soda. $35 a person at the door. $30 a person with reservations.Enjoy any of the 31 flavored martini’s for $5.00. Valentine’s Day Dinner

Burlington Antiques
Stop in for the last few days of our Valentine’s Sale! It ends on Wednesday! Pretty jewelry and glassware make great gifts for your sweetheart!

Papa John’s Pizza
Only two more days to profess your love with pizza! Just add pepperoni – or whatever topping you like - to a heart-shaped pizza before they’re gone! Snag your sweetheart (or yourself) a sweet deal – a heart-shaped one-topping thin crust pizza and a Cinnapie for just $15! Way cheaper than roses, and tastier, too. Just be sure to get yours soon, because they’re only available through Valentine’s Day, February 14. http://www.papajohns.com

Qdoba
It’s that time of year again, and Qdoba is here to share the love! Just come into Qdoba on Valentine’s Day, buy one entrée and share a kiss with a significant other, family member, friend or understanding stranger-and we’ll give you a second entrée FREE!

Sartor Hamann
Receive a FREE 24 karat real rose with any purchase of $250 or more. Or purchase the rose for just $59.95.

The Alley
Couples beer pong at the Alley; Valentine’s Day Lingerie Show.

The Mill Coffee & Tea
Valentine’s Day Treats Fresh from the Grain Bin: double chocolate brownies, German chocolate brownies, white chocolate brownies, and carrot cake. Both locations are feelin’ the love.

Bruegger’s
It’s so cliché to give a dozen roses. How about a dozen heart-shaped bagels! Now that’s creative! They’re available today only at participating bakeries. Did you get yours?

Toppers Pizza
Who’s ready for a SWEET Valentine’s Day? Get it on with this Toppers Tuesday deal: Free single order of Cinnamonstix or Berrystix with a Large House Pizza purchase!

nu Vibe
Happy Valentine’s Day!
We can help you treat your favorite Valentine’s. We have Nora Jones and Adel playing, Gelato in the freezer and many chocolate treats to share.

Marcus Lincoln Grand Cinema
Make sure you and your sweet heart stop by the Grand for a sneak peak of the romantic comedy, This Means War, at 7:25 on Valentines Day. And guys don’t worry, its got plenty of action and explosions to keep you just as entertained. This Means War (2012) Directed by McG. With Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy, Til Schweiger. Two top CIA operatives wage an epic battle against one another after they discover they are dating.

Starbucks
Everylove

The Bourbon
We are super excited about this…..YACHT TONIGHT w/ @Powerful Science, Bad Speler, and Spencelove. Doors at 8pm. $8

ZOO Bar
Jazzocracy from 6-9pm no cover!

Crescent Moon
Valentine’s Day with Tony Church 12-string guitar at 7pm!

Doc’s Place
Fruitgasm Cocktail Night / Romantical Botanical Art Show Event Date & Time: February 14, 4 p.m. - 2 a.m.Valentine’s Day becomes a little sweeter at Doc’s Place- with a plethora of fruity cocktails and the “Romantical Botanicals: flower-themed fabric art” art show as a backdrop. Specialty drinks include: Strawberry, Raspberry, Pomegranate and Banana Chocolate Martinis, Lindeman’s Framboise, Fruli Strawberry Beer and Kur Royal cocktails. Enjoy the fabric flower-themed art show with artists Deb Lee Toth, Carrie Masters, Jennifer Woockman, Lora Rocke, Amanda Garner and Panhia Yang.

Iron Brush Tattoo and Body Piercing
Valentine’s Day special today and tomorrow. We have just three navel barbells with heart shapes stones from Anatometal left. We also have a bunch of heart shaped ring from LeRoi. If you still need a gift for someone, or even for yourself, stop down and save 10% on all our Valentine’s Day jewelry. Also, don’t forget about our Birthstone Sale that is going on. http://ironbrush.com/category/jewelry/

Hour Bar
What better way to start your Valentine’s Day…Hour Lounge for lunch…$5.95 Big Italian and Fries…Hour Burger, Steak Sandwich.

Buzzard Billy’s Lincoln
Valentines Day!! Come enjoy dinner for 2 for $25.

Dozo Sushi
A dinner for two, choose from one of four bottles of wine and Fried Banana Ice-Cream for $60!

Mayor Chris Beutler today announced that the City of Lincoln will place a grid of communication fiber conduits in downtown Lincoln. He will propose to the City Council that up to $700,000 from the City’s Fast Forward Fund be used to finance the City’s cos

Mayor Chris Beutler today announced that the City of Lincoln will place a grid of communication fiber conduits in downtown Lincoln. He will propose to the City Council that up to $700,000 from the City’s Fast Forward Fund be used to finance the City’s costs. Mayor Beutler established the fund in 2009 to assist with infrastructure improvements that help drive economic development and job creation.

“In this century, telecommunications fiber has taken its place next to roads as key infrastructure for the promotion of economic growth and job creation,” Beutler said. “As Mayor, my goal is keep Lincoln among the most competitive economies not only in Nebraska, not only in the United States, but the entire world. Today’s announcement will stamp Lincoln, Nebraska as a national leader in critical communication infrastructure and further our goal of being a city that can compete with anyone, anytime, anywhere. It will be a game changer.”

Under the proposal, the City would finance a grid of conduits to ultimately hold fiber from Unite Private Networks and possibly other Internet service providers. The expected cost is about $600,000, and an additional $100,000 would allow for contingencies. The Fast Forward Fund currently has a balance of $6,266,875.

Mayor Beutler said the conduits can be installed while the City is rehabilitating downtown streets this spring, and the project would create a number of advantages for Lincoln:

- Increased competition for Internet services will create pressure for lower prices and expanded services. New service providers will be able to enter the Lincoln market. The project will lay the foundation for possible private sector investment in “carrier hotels,” which allow greater access to multiple providers and are key infrastructure components in other communities.

- A new fiber grid provides critical redundancy for businesses that depend on Internet service.

- Additional fiber will help City government save taxpayer dollars by providing capacity for smart technology such as signal light sensors and remote safety cameras in parking garages.

The Mayor thanked Unite Private Networks and the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce for their work on the project.

“In Lincoln, our fast growing technology sector is an engine for economic growth,” Beutler said. “Companies like Nelnet and Nanonation are utilizing the talent nurtured at UNL’s Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management to create new, good-paying jobs in the community. The development of Innovation Campus will only accelerate that trend.”

Visit Toppers on Facebook

There’s just a few days left before downtown Lincoln’s newest restaurant, Toppers Pizza, opens up, and General Manager Jon P. Crowe couldn’t be more excited.

There’s just one day left before downtown Lincoln’s newest restaurant, Toppers Pizza, opens up, and General Manager Jon P. Crowe couldn’t be more excited.

“That whole day is going to be like a big party atmosphere; this place should be rocking all day. Hopefully we’ll have a big line out front.”

Jon, a graduate of the University of Nebraska, and his father, owner Jon S. Crowe, are set to open the pizza place on Saturday, February 11, at 1226 P Street, a spot previously occupied by Sur Tango Bar & Café.

The doors will open at 10:30 am, and Toppers will be doling out free food for a year to some of their first customers.

“The first 50 people who come in and spend $10 with us get a coupon book that gives them one free menu item a week for a year,” Jon says. “That way they can try our entire menu and get exposed to what we have to offer besides just pizza. People that come in after the first 50 are still going to have opportunities to win prizes- free food and things like that- so it’s going to be fun.”

Toppers offers a variety of house pizzas that can be ordered with a hand-tossed crust, a crispy crust, or a thicker style of crust they call a Tallboy. Traditional house favorites include the Mac ’N Cheese, the Taco Topper, the Chicken Bacon Ranch and the Gyro Topper and are available in 12” Medium, 14” Large or 18” Party sizes.

                              Taco Topper

“We make our dough and cut our vegetables fresh every day in the store, and we shred our cheese daily as well, which comes from seven different dairy farms in Wisconsin,” Jon says.

As for his favorite Toppers pizza?

“The Buffalo Topper, which is a buffalo chicken pizza. We use buffalo ranch sauce instead of regular pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and then cut up boneless wings on top. It’s awesome.”

In addition to pizza, Toppers also offers grinders, bone-in and boneless wings, quesadillas and their signature item, Topperstix.

“Topperstix are buttered with garlic butter on both sides, they have a ton of cheese and you can get any topping on them. Our popular ones include Baconstix, Pepperonistix, Tacostix, Cinnamonstix and Berrystix, and you can use several types of sauce to dip those in as well.”

                              Baconstix

Toppers will be open from 10:30 am to 3:00 am every day. Jon says they stay open late because many of the Toppers stores are located next to college campuses and they try to cater to that young demographic. About 50% of Toppers’ business comes after 10:00 pm, and 25% of their business comes after the bars close.

“They’re long hours, but that way you’ll always have that trust in knowing that Toppers is there for you when you’re hungry,” he says.

While Jon is excited to start doing business, he says they’re not looking to compete with the business models of local pizzerias in downtown Lincoln.

“Lazarri’s and Yia Yia’s are definitely traditional Lincoln pizza places, we would not consider ourselves trying to take their business from them because they do pizza by the slice and they have their own unique set of toppings. I love Lazzari’s, my old roommate worked there the whole time we were in college; I love their spicy chicken pizza.”

Customers will be able to order Toppers online and can have their food delivered to them as long as they are within delivery boundaries they’ve set, which are north to Superior Street, east to 48th St, south to A Street and then out west by Highway 77 including the Highlands region.

“If it takes more than 30 minutes to get you your pizza, we’re disappointed,” Jon says.

While many people might be apprehensive about working with family because of the tensions that might develop, Jon says that won’t be a problem for him and his father.

“My dad’s like an 18 to 24-year-old wrapped in a fifty-four-year-old’s body,” Jon says. “He’s fun to work with, really down to earth and really fits this whole brand.”

Assistant Managers Ross Bonesteel and Jeff Pickering, and Manager Jon P. Crowe

Jon says his father, who went to culinary school, had been looking to open a restaurant for quite some time when he stumbled across Toppers’ website and noticed how it had a different feel than the others he looked at.

“So we hopped on a plane and went out to the Toppers headquarters in Whitewater, WI to meet them and check it out. I was just going to be some added eyes and ears to keep him grounded, but they really blew us away out there; we thought Lincoln really needed something like this. Then my dad asked me if I wanted to be a part of it, and I couldn’t say no.”

The opening of the downtown Lincoln Toppers location marks the first one to open in Nebraska. The pizza chain began in Champaign, Illinois in 1991 and has since expanded to 35 stores across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio and North Carolina. The company looks to add another 25 stores by the end of the year.

Jon says he and his father are looking to eventually open two to three more locations in Lincoln, and then up to ten locations in the Omaha metro area.

“We have a pretty good team of people who’ve worked with us. They’re not working to get paid, they’re working to be a part of this thing; to be a part of our company.”

But Jon says his main focus right now is getting their first store up and running and making sure everything’s done right, even if it means staying at the store for the first 16 and a half hours that make up opening day. 

“Well, I have in my mind that some of us will come in right away and open the doors and then go home and come back and close the store, but I have a feeling that I’ll probably be here from open till close,” he says with a laugh. “Regardless, it’s going to be a fun environment to work in.”
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On Tuesdays, Toppers will offer specials deals for those who’ve liked their official Facebook page.

Toppers Full Menu
Grand Opening Facebook Event Page
Lincoln Facebook Page