Jahswill and Michelle Ekele are hoping to live out the American dream right here in Beatrice.
The couple purchased Risky's Sport Bar and Grill, 2317 N. 6th St., in late April and have been listening to customers since then to make it a “family friendly place in Beatrice.â€
Jahswill Ekele said his priority has been to “provide good food with friendly service.â€
"I want Risky’s to be a place where the customers have what they want,†he said.
The first change? Customers said it was too dark so Ekele has been adding brighter light bulbs.
Ekele came to the United States from Nigeria in 2007.
He owned a small place that served alcohol and smoked cod while he was in Nigeria and has “always wanted to have a place like that in the United States.â€
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After spending several years working for big corporations like Lowe’s and Tractor Supply Company he decided it was time to pursue his dream.
“I was a student at SCC in Lincoln and worked a full-time and a part-time job. I have been in charge of finances and people†he noted. “I’m excited for this opportunity in Beatrice, which is a very friendly place.â€
Ekele became a United States citizen in 2013.
“It was the best feeling†he said.
Ekele added that he has had “a lot of support from the community,†noting that he likes customers to try new foods before he puts them on the menu.
He has recently offered grilled, fresh salmon and “after the second day we ran out of 20 pounds," of the fish.
The bar and grill will also add four new pizzas, brisket and baby back ribs in the near future.
During the first weeks, open interviews were held to hire new staff.
“We are contracted with a company that will be training the entire staff,†Ekele said.
Chelsea Stevens serves as the general manager and has worked at Risky’s for 11 years.
Ekele said he hopes to continue to invest in the community and make Risky’s a place where people plan to stay in Beatrice and buy local. He would like to expand to offer more activities for family fun.
“I want people to know that Risky’s has different ownership and it will be a new experience. It makes me happy when my customers are happy.â€