At Interiors Joan and Associates, we are passionate about assisting homeowners achieve the home of their dreams. You enjoy peace of mind knowing that our designers hand-pick innovative and allocationfriendly ideas based on your personal taste, individual style, and specified budget. Our dedication saves you not just time and money, but also removes the stress of overseeing your interior design upgrade or home renovation.
The process is straightforward: our designers meet with you and review project points such as design concepts and how you want your home to meet your individual lifestyle needs. During this time, we discuss budget and other project logistics like
aesthetic preferences and floor plan restrictions. Our designers have expertise in the latest cutting-edge, cost-saving design concepts and can recommend products that will enhance your space.
A major benefit is that our designers assist with project management and act as a liaison with contractors, builders, and installers to oversee design progression. This means we juggle logistics such as coordinating tradespeople, arranging for deliveries, and scheduling installations.
Interiors Joan and Associates works directly with design and furniture industry vendors. Every year, our designers attend a nationwide trade event
that features the industry’s latest and best trends and includes new collections and other products unavailable to the general public. They pass this exclusive trade line access directly onto our clients, who can also purchase furniture and accessories from our showroom as well as special order custom items. This results in a bespoke look unique to your home.
Whether our designers help you integrate the latest smart technology into your residence or choose the perfect lighting to brighten your space, Interiors Joan and Associates will transform your house into a home that is as special as you and your family are.
THE XM
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B e e x t ra v a g a n t a n d e x p re s s i ve . S e t yo u r l e g a c y i n m o t i o n by b e i n g o n e o f t h e f i rs t t o t ra n s c e n d a l l o t h e rs .
B u i l d yo u r o w n B M W X M a n d d i s c ove r t h e e d g e o f yo u r w o r l d o r c o n t a c t a C l i e n t A d v i s o r a t B M W o f O m a h a t o l e a r n m o re a b o u t t h e B M W X M .
B M W Th e U l t i m a t e D r i v i n g M a c h i n e ®
(402) 393-9700
BEYOND THE SMILE
Tyler Kasper’s Dedication to Customer Service at ONYX
Story by Claudia Moomey // Photography by Bill Sitzmann
Tyler Kasper has been in various roles at ONYX for over eight years. Through his dedication to client service and deep knowledge of Jaguar and Land Rover models, Kasper found his perfect fit as a Service Advisor.
“Being a Service Advisor is tricky,” he admitted, “many of our appointments are for routine maintenance; yet, at times their vehicle is having an issue, which can understandably be frustrating.” Difficulties on the job, however, have no power over Kasper.
Having previous experience at ONYX with jobs such as a valet, loaner coordinator, internal advisor, and parts advisor, Kasper has had plenty of learning moments over the years, developing the professional values he holds now.
“We always knew Tyler was destined for a guest-facing role,” said ONYX Service Manager Joshua Stahr. “We were experiencing higher service volume and our Advisor Team needed to grow.” Along with his ample experience with the company and ability to adapt to new roles, Kasper’s ambition to develop new skills and learn the complexities of helping customers landed him the promotion.
“Tyler is our most experienced Jaguar Land Rover Service Advisor. He is extremely empathetic to the concerns our clients may have, and understands the complexities of these vehicles,” said Stahr. “He excels at guiding customers through unfortunate break downs, roadside assistance concerns, and out-oftown questions.” Questions from out of town pop up often. “Being the only Jaguar Land Rover retailer in a large geographical area
creates some challenges when guests need service attention, and they are two or four hours away,” Stahr explained. “Tyler clearly communicates why the issue may have happened, and what steps need to be taken to get them back on the road safely, which puts a large amount of trust in him.” Stahr describes Kasper as being “obsessed” with the customer experience at ONYX.
Reinforcing his fit within the role, Kasper has had exceptional success, having “consistently been ranked in the top 10% of all Jaguar Land Rover Service Advisors in North America with his client satisfaction scores.”
Kasper’s consistent client satisfaction rates stem from his genuine concern for their well-being and the well-being of their vehicles. “When we are able to turn the guest’s day or visit around and make a friend or a longtime customer, that makes a big difference to me, and hopefully the client as well,” Kasper reflected.
“His positive smile and laugh makes working with him energizing and fun,” Stahr said. “The Service Advisor job at times can be very stressful, and Tyler provides levity at the right times to keep our culture healthy. His teammates and ONYX guests know that he is reliable and will explore all options available to provide a prompt resolution to concerns brought to his attention.”
This team appreciation goes both ways. “We have a solid team here all the way around, so they make the hard days better and the good days great,” Kasper beamed.
To learn more or speak with a client advisor, visit onyxatuomotive.com.
“HIS POSITIVE SMILE AND LAUGH MAKES WORKING WITH HIM ENERGIZING AND FUN.”
-JOSHUA STAHR
GOOD CAR HEALTH
ONYX
VIDEO WALKAROUNDS
ENSURE SAFETY AND RELIABILITY
Story by Kim Carpenter // Photography by Bill Sitzmann
“WE’RE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING, AND THE WALKAROUNDS ARE A PROCESS THAT WE DO FOR OUR CUSTOMERS.”
-ROB RAMSEY
Nate Roder, Master Elite BMW Technician
Most drivers know the basics when it comes to their vehicles—how to fill the tank, check fluids, and maybe check tire pressure. Other than that, car maintenance involves bringing the car to the dealer or a mechanic—but trust is always a concern. Do I really need the new tires? Is there truly an antifreeze leak?
ONYX Automotive solves that with visualization via technology.
Rob Ramsey, service and parts director at ONYX, handles a variety of responsibilities, ranging from training to ordering specialized equipment, for the luxury car dealer. Now in his fifth year with the company, he said, “I love working at ONYX—they treat people so well!”
That treatment naturally extends to ONYX clients, where service is always a main priority. For that reason, the luxury car company offers video walkarounds for understanding the maintenance and repair of BMWS, MINIs, Land Rovers, and Jaguars.
“We’re constantly evolving, and the walkarounds are a process that we do for our clients,” Ramsey explained. “A technician does a video during multi-point inspections of every vehicle. It’s like an annual check-up for your car—just like when you have a physical, we have a ‘car doctor.’ It’s all about safety and reliability on the road.”
Videos provide information on other basics, such as the condition of brakes, tires, filters, and fluids. If a client has a particular concern—for example, if the alignment feels off—they can flag that ahead of time for a technician to record. “If a check engine light comes on or if a car feels like it’s running rough, we can show the results in a video,” Ramsey explained. “It helps with transparency between the customers and us because they can see what we see.”
ONYX technicians use a tool to measure tires and brakes, and then present that information to clients in a way that’s easy to understand. Tread depth or brake pad thickness, for example, might register as “green,” “yellow,” or “red.” Customers can see measurements rather than just take a mechanic’s word or read a print-out.
While most mechanics and dealers just provide a sheet of paper with these details, at ONYX, clients receive a text to their phones and can then visit their client portals—much like they can do with patient portals through their healthcare providers—and it’s all easily accessible via a simple app. Most videos run an average of one minute and 56 seconds, so they are quick to view and easy to follow.
“People can go to their portal at any time. They can view current inspections and compare them to previous ones,” Ramsey said. “They can see that the technicians are consistent in their evaluations, and they can view their vehicle’s condition and see that this item is due, this is past due, or this is urgent.”
How have ONYX clients responded to this vehicle maintenance perk?
“They love it and expect it now,” Ramsey affirmed. “It’s about trust and transparency. This is what we do at ONYX. We have the means, the technology, and the tools. Above all, we want customers to be and feel safe.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
Off the Beaten Path Riding the Wild on Two Wheels
Story and Photography by Rob Gibson
Defender Trails hits the dirt this quarter a little differently than you might expect: on two wheels instead of four. Bike riding is a passion of mine and has been a consistent part of my life since I was young. The enjoyment of riding a bike is a normal rite of passage for most children, and I was no different. I can thank my Uncle Mike and Aunt Merry for having enough patience to teach me how to ride a bicycle on the streets of Moab, Utah. Bikes have changed considerably since I learned to ride—then, it was on a secondhand Schwinn with a banana seat and tassels fluttering from the grips. Today, I ride an e-bike with electric shifting and electric suspension. Even though bicycle technology has changed, the thrill of riding elicits the same emotions for me now as it did back then.
My wife and I have mountain bikes. For those of you who have been keeping pace with our adventures through the quarterly column I write, you know we often take our bikes on many journeys. Last year, we had our bikes with us for three more extensive trips; riding in some of the national parks was a highlight of one of our adventures. When we are in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, or South Dakota, it’s easy to use the term “mountain biking,” because those states have mountains. Around Omaha, we tend to say “trail riding.” During the nicer months, you will often see our bikes hanging off the back of our Defender. The Land Rover Defender is a great tool that easily transports the equipment we use during our trail rides.
My wife and I spend our evenings and weekends traveling from trail to trail, often revisiting our favorites when time and weather permit. Southeast Nebraska is blessed with no fewer than 21 sanctioned and supported dirt trails, and a few more off the radar. A trail rider can find anything from mild to wild. Most trails are just dirt paths that meander through trees or meadows; other trails in the area have large berms and jumps or tight transitions that challenge riders. The trails we gravitate toward are more scenic, and we have a better chance of seeing wildlife than other riders. One of our favorite local destinations is the trail system at the Wagon Train State Recreational Area just south of Lincoln. The trail flows through old-growth trees and open areas near the lake itself.
Even though our trail riding is mainly on dirt trails, Nebraska weather occasionally conspires against us. Once again, Southeast Nebraska has some great options. Both Omaha and Lincoln have great paved bike trails, and one of our favorites is the trail at Chalco Hills Recreation Area. Southeast Nebraska also has some of the best Rails-to-Trails rides in the country. Abandoned railroad corridors have been reclaimed and refurbished into multipurpose trails for walking and riding. Many of these trails have a crushed limestone surface that shed more water than a straight dirt trail and remain usable even when wet, such as the MoPac Trail east of Lincoln and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Iowa. Both are long trails with very little elevation change and wide enough for passing.
Resources are readily available for anyone interested in trail riding. We often hear about new trails from people we meet on the trail or via social media. National and local organizations host websites that frequently give trail ratings, directions, and conditions. Local bike shops will not only have maps of the area, but will sometimes have organized group rides that are an excellent introduction to trail riding and new trails.
Owning and driving a Land Rover Defender is like having a willing participant ready to go on any adventure. Our planning can be meticulously choreographed or spontaneous, and it matters little with our Defender. We know the Defender has the space, capability, and luxury to take us and our equipment to any trail.
For more information, visit www.LandRoverusa.com.
“A LOVE LETTER TO DESIGN AND DINING”
Memoir Crafts
Gourmet Memories That Last a Lifetime
Story by Natalie Veloso // Photography by Bill Sitzmann
There’s a new American Grill concept downtown causing quite a stir. Dining is a regal experience at Memoir filled with warm jewel tones—perfectly fit for the newest crown jewel in the Omaha restaurant scene. The inviting dining space shines with fuchsia flair, deep emerald elegance, and a promise of a golden experience. This new hotspot tucked into the corner of Brickline at The Mercantile at 930 Harney St. has already proved itself to be quite memorable, indeed.
The 44th opening from Omaha’s Flagship Restaurant Group enjoys an ideal location within walking distance of the historic Old Market and revitalized Riverfront. Its light-filled dining room immediately draws eyes to a double-sided central bar beneath a coffered ceiling that offers an excellent front-row seat to the open kitchen. Guests are invited to witness the skilled chefs at work beyond a wall framed with dark green subway tiles. Walnut tones blend with art deco patterns and original artworks add character to the walls, while oversized arched mirrors and shelves filled with leafy green plants, knickknacks, and books—including memoirs, of course— tell stories of connection.
A self-proclaimed “love letter to design and dining,” Memoir’s menu is its own conversation between tradition and modernity, offering reimagined classics and taking inspiration from other esteemed Flagship concepts—notably Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Blatt Beer & Table, and Plank Seafood Provisions. A special menu section is solely dedicated to sushi—the pork potstickers directly reference an original Blue Sushi dish. The detailed consideration given to a gluten-sensitive menu, children’s meals, and vegan options ensures a wide-ranging appeal, catering to dietary preferences with care.
We began our meal with the Potato Puffs, five golden mashed potato-filled puffs coated with parmesan and chives, lightly fried to perfection and suitably shaped for dipping into a tasty chili-bacon aioli. The Caesar Salad was a delightful classic, blending romaine, herbs, and parmesan with crispy shallots and caesar dressing, while a crunchy garnish of thinly sliced potato chips offered a refreshing departure from croutons.
My dining companion selected the Pyro Cheeseburger as a main course, an American favorite boasting double beef patties and melted American cheese, topped with shaved onion and spicy pickles, all nestled in a toasted sesame bun generously spread with house burger sauce. While a burger is commonplace on downtown menus, my guest called this one a “perfected staple.” Opting for the Pasta Amatriciana, I savored Memoir’s housemade radiatori pasta tossed in a fresh tomato sauce with bacon, Calabrian chili, and basil, topped generously with pecorino. I selected the grilled chicken from my protein choices, which undoubtedly elevated the entire dish. I found the addition of any protein, though with an extra charge, to be well worth it for any of Memoir’s pasta dishes.
Drinks were plentiful throughout the evening, evident from the moment we were seated and offered a choice of three types of water. The impressive cocktail book also offered craft cocktails—with and
without spirits—local beers, ciders, sake, wine, soda, tea, and coffee. I opted for the Moonwalk, a refreshing sweet and tart balance of Tito’s vodka, pamplemousse, Grand Marnier, citrus, rose water, and Paula Kornell Brut, garnished with a fresh lemon wheel.
Memoir’s dessert selection may be limited to just three options, but the decision is far from easy, even with offerings as seemingly simple as a Coconut Tart, Berries and Cream, and a Chocolate Torte. Concluding our evening on a high note, we indulged in the Chocolate Torte, topped with a delicate hazelnut ganache and a dollop of creme fraiche ice cream, presented beautifully with a raspberry coulis drizzle that stole the show.
While our shared treat was undoubtedly the sweetest part of our meal, it was the service that proved to be the most memorable. The waitstaff was friendly, attentive, and professional throughout our dinner. Though our server never missed a mark, other observant staff members appeared to have the primary task of topping off waters before they ever got the chance to run low.
The kitchen staff had an enthusiastic energy of their own beyond the open window. The culinary maestros clearly had a practical system in place, moving quickly and efficiently; we thought it especially enjoyable to watch their professionalism. We people-watched throughout our meal, observing nothing but satisfied faces. Even on a weeknight, the restaurant was buzzing—I found myself thankful we had made a reservation. Despite the packed house, we received our meals in an impressively timely manner.
My dining companion and I eagerly anticipate our return for brunch, expecting a brighter setting and the same outstanding flavors and service. Without a doubt, the Memoir experience is destined to linger in your memory long after you’ve left its grand glass doors.
For more information, to view the menu, and to make reservations, visit ourmemoir.com.
At ONYX Automotive, success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. The Driving Good initiative embodies this ethos, channeling the collective power of ONYX associates and customers to create tangible change. In March, ONYX partnered with Together to raise essential living supplies for those facing hunger and homelessness in Omaha and surrounding communities.
Together is a dedicated resource within the community. As a nonprofit organization, their mission transcends mere assistance; it’s about empowerment and dignity restoration. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and hunger, Together Omaha doesn’t just provide temporary relief, but a pathway to lasting change. Through comprehensive programs and a firm commitment, they’ve become synonymous with hope for many in the community.
Throughout the drive, supplies were donated to make kits for the most vulnerable in our community. Everything from nonperishable food items to hygiene products and clothing were bundled together to be distributed to those in need.
After the drive, volunteers from ONYX gathered at Together, located off S. 24th and Leavenworth streets, to make kits with donated items. These included hygiene kits, move-in kits (with cleaning supplies), and street outreach kits (with food and clothing).
According to Mike Hornacek, President and CEO of Together, the organization serves 125 households daily through its food pantry. In the first quarter of 2024 (January-March), their Nourish program witnessed foot traffic of 11,500 individuals. Notably, initiatives such as H+H Driving Good have become even more apparent. It’s not just about meeting immediate needs; it’s about investing in the future of our community.
From filling tables with essential supplies to raising funds for pantry restocking, every action translates into realworld change. The ripple effect of these contributions extends far beyond material goods—it fosters a sense of belonging and resilience within the community.
In our next issue, I will share about our partnership with the Food Bank of the Heartland and their Strike Out Hunger campaign.
Let’s continue to be a force for good in our community, together!
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com/driving-good.
Story by Lindsey Hinchcliff-Crotty // Images Provided
BACKYARD ASPIRATIONS
The Latest Landscape Trends
Story by Tamsen Butler // Photography by Bill Sitzmann
Backyards are evolving into more than a space to let kids and dogs run off their energy. Landscaping and pool features are transforming backyards into entertainment spaces, and in some instances, sanctuaries from everyday life.
Tom Ahern, a designer for Greenlife Gardens landscaping company, enjoys the opportunity to transform backyards into outdoor environments that rival the ones indoors. One of the hottest landscape trends right now, according to Ahern, is creating outdoor living spaces for entertainment.
Bringing the Inside Outside
“Clients want to do everything they do inside outside,” Ahern explained. That typically means the addition of outdoor kitchens and other features that allow homeowners to host gatherings in their backyards to entertain 30-40 people at a time. Ahern said he tries to design for “the biggest party they’re going to have,” so that an increased guest list doesn’t cause problems for the hosts.
Shade is an important feature to consider when creating an outdoor space for people who enjoy hosting parties. Pergolas and pavilions make great additions to backyards when there’s a need for shade.
Clean Lines and Modern Looks
Ahern said the current trend for landscape design leans toward “clean lines and modern looks. They want it to look organized.” He added that gray is a common color to incorporate into backyard features nowadays and estimated that 60-70% of the backyards he helps design follow this trend.
While Ahern acknowledges there is certainly a trend toward native plants and allowing those to flourish to help the environment, he primarily gets requests for this type of landscaping more on acreages than in suburban backyards.
Low Maintenance and Ease of Use
Greenlife Gardens’ clientele is primarily high net worth individuals who have the money, but not the time, to maintain an outdoor living space that will impress guests and act as a sanctuary for the homeowners. For that reason, Ahern and his team facilitate the process as much as possible.
E NTERTAINMENT
“Our clients are looking for low maintenance, so we try to automate what we can,” Ahern said. He puts features in place that can be controlled through a mobile device, from landscape lighting to water and fire features. They can even automate the watering of potted plants, making the maintenance of the backyard quite simple.
Fire and Other Hot Stuff
Ahern said he can’t remember the last time he did an outdoor living space design that didn’t include some type of fire feature. “Fire features are huge right now,” he said, and with the automation Ahern and his team can put into place, fire features have become a must-have for the season.
Hidden hot tubs are trendy right now, too. Gone are the days of the big, boxy hot tub sticking out like a sore thumb in a backyard. Instead, decks, steps, and other features are used to camouflage the hot tub and make it look more appealing. “Sometimes, the features to hide the hot tub cost more than the hot tub itself,” Ahern revealed.
Space for a Par-Tee
If a putting green in your backyard sounds far-fetched, you’ll likely be excited to learn this trend is hot right now, thanks to the popularity of artificial grass. Artificial turf has evolved from what it once was, and now rivals the look of natural, well-kept grass. “Good, expensive turf looks natural,” Ahern said. “Many people don’t realize it’s artificial grass until they walk on it, see it, and touch it.”
Backyard putting greens have been steadily increasing in popularity in the past few years, with Ahern estimating around five to six a year done by his company alone. But artificial turf isn’t just for golf enthusiasts—it’s also trending for pool decks and terraces. Different cuts and colors are available, making the landscape design possibilities quite exciting.
Realizing that a backyard can be so much more than an open space behind a house opens a world of possibilities— and can result in your very own outdoor sanctuary when done right. The lesson learned is this: if you can imagine the backyard of your dreams, you can see it come to life with the right team.
For more information, visit greenlifegardens.com.
BMW’S MUCHANTICIPATED X3 PROMISES TO BE A STUNNER
The Latest Chapter of Legend
Story by Dwain Hebda // Images Provided
Ever since it was originally released in 2003, BMW’s acclaimed X3 has been a critical and customer favorite, selling more than 3.5 million units. Despite this success, company engineers have proven time and again that they are not shy about improving upon a winning formula, as decades of innovation and improvement to the popular model attest.
Such is the mindset for the latest iteration of the X3, which has had the auto press and driving enthusiasts salivating well ahead of its expected arrival this fall. In an era when many automakers are standing pat or playing it safe, BMW characteristically continues to push the boundaries of performance and luxury in one of its signature models, thus giving the consumer the widest possible range of options to craft their dream vehicle.
“What we’re seeing a lot of right now is BMW engineering vehicles that appeal to everyone,” said Dillon Johnson, sales manager for ONYX. “The X3 is a really good example of that, which is why there are so many trim options and engine options. It gives the customer plenty of à la carte options, which is why it’s very common for us to do custom orders on the X3s.”
The auto environment into which the new X3 will debut is a far cry from any in recent memory, as consumer demand for electronics, performance for the dollar, and alternative power plants continue to push auto engineering. That, plus the fact that the model has big shoes to fill; its predecessor was not only the most successful X3 ever sold, per BMW Blog, but also challenged for the brand’s best-selling product in 2023. These elements have combined to create expectations for the 2025 model that have only escalated with each passing month.
Never one to shirk a challenge, the legendary German automaker is promising the 2025 X3 will more than satisfy the hype, as well as fit snugly into the new driving environment in ways BMW longtimers have come to expect and newcomers are eager to experience.
While extensive details are slim prerelease, even to dealers, BMW has provided tantalizing samples of what’s to come to members of the auto press and, by extension, the public at large. In April, Car and Driver got a sneak peek at a test
model and came away summarily impressed, even if the heavily camouflaged vehicle gave few hints as to body style or external appearance.
“We understand that the first versions to go on sale in the U.S. are the four-cylinder X3 xDrive30 rated at around 280 horsepower and the six-cylinder M50 good for approximately 390 horsepower,” wrote George Kacher. “In addition to the hybrid-assisted gasoline engines, BMW will offer the upgraded xDrive30e plugin hybrid believed to peak at a combined 300 horsepower.
“Although some sources claim that the new X3 M50 will get a last-minute power boost to 421 horsepower, other channels suggest that the output will be kept below 400 horses because there is an unconfirmed X3 M Competition—codenamed G97—looming in the background.”
Other tidbits shared by the auto press rave about improvements to steering and suspension, which make the auto responsive and nimble even while BMW made it bigger and roomier. As for the technical guts of the new X3, these too have been attended to with BMW’s customary eye for detail. The car deploys a bevy of cameras and a mix of short-range and long-range radar to great effect, scanning cross traffic, cycle lanes, oncoming vehicles, and objects approaching from behind on the highway, as well as allowing for parking in tight spaces at the touch of a button.
Johnson said one of the most appealing features of the onboard technology is its user-friendliness, delivering the functionality that drivers want without any of the complications or intrusiveness that they don’t.
“The new updated technology that we have seen in recent years is all very seamless,” he said. “We’re seeing more and more functions activated by voice, which helps the driver keep [their] eyes on the road and still use all the features. That’s how everything is progressing.”
Elements outside of design, performance, and technology that have made the X3 one of BMW’s most popular models are price and availability. The 2024 models’ starting MSRP lists from the mid$40,000s for the core sDrive30i/xDrive30i to $75,500 for the X3 M, per BMW.com,
while not chump change, represent surprisingly accessible entry price points. That, and what appears to be a lack of inventory and supply issues that have dogged other car makers in recent years, has Johnson expecting big things once the X3 starts rolling into the showroom.
“Overall, we’ve had the most inventory we’ve had, probably since pre-COVID, so we’re expecting to have good availability here at the dealership,” he said. “[T]urnaround times for customer orders are only about one to two months from the time we put an order in. The fact that they’re assembled in Spartanburg, South Carolina, plays a big part in that, and with the base price being what it is, it gives the consumer a lot of room to add the options they want most and still get it delivered in a reasonable amount of time.
“We’re looking forward to sitting down with our clients and really walking them through all the options open to them on the X3. Many clients are going to discover they can design a vehicle that’s exactly the way they want it while staying within their price range. We’re very excited for what’s coming this fall.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
“THE NEW UPDATED TECHNOLOGY THAT WE HAVE SEEN IN RECENT YEARS IS ALL VERY SEAMLESS; WE’RE SEEING MORE AND MORE FUNCTIONS ACTIVATED BY VOICE, WHICH HELPS THE DRIVER KEEP [THEIR] EYES ON THE ROAD AND STILL USE ALL THE FEATURES. THAT’S JUST HOW EVERYTHING IS PROGRESSING.”
-DILLON JOHNSON
A PERFECT MATCH
Teresa Elliott’s Sleek and Sophisticated 2023 Range Rover
Story by Kara Schweiss // Photography by Bill Sitzmann
ute, classy, and connected” is a friend’s quippy summation of what Teresa Elliott’s 2023 Range Rover says about her, but Elliott prefers a more subtle, less fancy description.
“I think it shows I have good taste,” Elliott said. “I think it shows success.”
Elliott has been a customer of ONYX Automotive for years, but the past year with her Range Rover, purchased in August 2023, has flown by. Instead of Elliott having to search far and wide for the right vehicle, it practically found her. When the lease was up on her previous vehicle, which was gray with a black interior, Elliott had a more luxurious color in mind—white—for the next goround. With perfect timing, a white 2023 Range Rover came in to the dealership that happened to fit precisely what she had envisioned.
“It was exactly what I wanted—and I actually purchased it this time because I loved it so much. I think I want to keep it forever,” Elliott said. To ensure many happy years ahead, she added: “I totally baby this car. I want it to last me. I splurged on it, so I’m really making sure it stays nice, and I have very low miles on it.”
Elliott describes her Range Rover, with its white interior, black top-white exterior, and smooth lines, as “feminine.”
“It’s really pretty,” she said. “I absolutely love the design of it. It’s very sleek. And the inside is very plush.” She doesn’t mind the upkeep for the white interior, either. “It’s easier for me to keep it clean with the white because I can see it,” she explained. “I love a clean, detailed vehicle.”
Elliott added that it’s not only aesthetics she enjoys.
“It’s an amazing vehicle to drive and get around in,” she said. “I love how it just glides. It’s like you’re in a spaceship.”
Most of Elliott’s work is in and around the Omaha area, so she appreciates the practical features of her Range Rover. It gets around well in all kinds of weather, she said. It’s turbocharged, so it’s fuel-efficient, as well as powerful and responsive. Elliott also praises her Range Rover’s maneuverability. It boasts a rear-wheel steering
feature many drivers call “all-wheel steering” that allows the rear wheels to turn along with the front wheels, making tight turns easier.
“The front and back tires both move at the same time,” Elliott said. “It makes parking easy. It makes U-turns easy. It’s so easy to drive.”
Elliott, who’s worked in real estate for more than three decades (teresaelliott.nexthomesre.com), said her vehicle enhances her professional image and inspires trust, which is especially important in her career field.
“It’s like being on your ‘A’ game all the time. Having a nice vehicle represents you as far as your reputation, and I want my clients to know I work hard and understand that it’s important to be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor,” she said. “I love what I do. It’s my calling.”
She sees parallels in her work and the ONYX team’s, Elliott said, and values the relationship she’s built with them over time as a customer and a fellow sales professional.
“It’s great to have partnerships with other vendors in town,” she said. “It’s great to keep those relationships, and I love referring people to them because I know they’ll get taken care of just like I want people to be referred to me, knowing I’ll take care of them.”
Elliott said ONYX has won her own repeat business.
“They ask you a lot of questions about what is important to you, not what’s important to them to sell you something. They want you to be happy,” she said. “That’s how I like to do my business. It’s about the customer being happy.”
Elliott added that she’s always been able to count on great ongoing care from ONYX, even after the lease is signed or the sale is complete.
“They do a great job with that. They’ve come and picked up my car from me and put it back in my garage [afterward] for different services needed,” she said. “They really go above and beyond.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
“IT WAS EXACTLY WHAT I WANTED—AND I ACTUALLY PURCHASED IT THIS TIME BECAUSE I LOVED IT SO MUCH. I THINK I WANT TO KEEP IT FOREVER.”
Some Midwesterners believe they need to travel far for a top-notch golf experience, but here’s an insider tip: Western Nebraska’s got it all—without the crowds or hefty prices of popular destinations like Scottsdale or Myrtle Beach. The region’s geography of mixed-grass prairie and sand-topped hills is enough to make a road trip attractive, but the scenic views of the Great Plains don’t end at the byways. With golf courses nestled in sand dunes, along rivers and lakes, and near unique rock formations, most of these golf hot-spots are designed to incorporate the natural landscape so you can enjoy panoramic views while you play.
Approaching the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the Nebraska Sandhills are the largest sand dunes in the Western Hemisphere, forming one of the most distinctive landscapes for the great game of golf. Golf Digest calls the region’s unique topography “not unlike the links of Scotland and Ireland or the Sandbelt of Melbourne.” Right in Omaha’s own backyard, Western Nebraska is filled with small-town charm and views well worth the drive. As public interest in the region continues to soar, packages like Golf the West are readily available to facilitate every detail of your journey.
Golf the West with No Stress
For over 10 years, Golf the West has curated golf tours through Western Nebraska to showcase the best courses in the region, guiding you through diverse terrains that match your preferences. You choose among five premier golf courses and hotels, and Golf the West handles all tee times and reservations with just one phone call. Starting at around $285 per person, the package includes three days of golf and a twonight hotel stay. Most of Golf the West’s courses are nestled in smaller towns— a refreshing change of pace from the hustle of Omaha. You’ll find friendly locals, welcoming clubhouses, and a sense of community that enhances your experience. The Golf the West package currently includes five outstanding courses across Western Nebraska:
Meadowlark Hills Golf Course –Kearney, NE
Less than three hours outside of Omaha, Meadowlark Hills is an ideal way to kick off your venture toward the West. Rated as the #5 best public access course in Nebraska by Golf Week Magazine and the #6 best public course to play by Golf Digest , Meadowlark Hills offers a well-manicured, challenging layout for golfers of all skill levels.
Cross Creek Golf Links – Cambridge, NE
Almost four hours outside of Omaha, this championship 18-hole course, spanning over 7,200 yards, was the longest in the state when it opened in 2001. Cross Creek provides a robust test for golfers looking for a true links-style experience in a picturesque setting.
Lake Maloney Golf Club – North Platte, NE
Four hours outside of Omaha, Lake Maloney Golf Club was originally built with sand greens in 1958 and converted to grass greens in 1993. The golf club provides a classic golfing experience with a mature layout and scenic location near Lake Maloney.
Heritage Hills Golf Course – McCook, NE
Four and a half hours outside of Omaha, renowned for its rolling hills, Heritage Hills was named one of the top 10 public courses in 2023 by the Omaha WorldHerald . This course offers a blend of natural beauty and challenging play.
Bayside Golf Club –Lake McConaughy, NE
Five hours outside of Omaha, the westernmost Golf the West course is rated a 4-star course by Golf Digest and the #2 public access course in Nebraska by Golfweek . Bayside offers breathtaking views and a challenging design that makes it one of the top courses in the state. Set by the scenic South Shores of Lake McConaughy, its reputation and setting makes it a standout choice for any golfer.
Chart Your Own Path
The Golf the West package is perfect for those who appreciate an organized golf trip, but Western Nebraska also offers fantastic options to golf at your own pace and schedule. For those who like their flexibility, there are many more must-see courses to explore on your trip.
The exclusive Sand Hills Golf Club in Mullen, Nebraska, which has annually been ranked first place as Nebraska’s best course since 1997 by Golf Digest , is certainly a club to respect. Bill Coore’s and Ben Crenshaw’s minimalist design sparked a resurgence in appreciation for natural courses in golf architecture. Alternatively, Wild Horse Golf Club in Gothenburg, NE, is often described as the public “little brother” to the renowned Sand Hills. Wild Horse provides an authentic sand hills experience with slightly softer terrain, making it accessible, yet still challenging.
Meanwhile, Landmand Golf Course in Homer, NE, is a newer addition to the Nebraska golf scene, boasting over 84 acres of maintained turf, expansive bunkers, and vast putting surfaces since it opened in 2022. Hailed by Golf Digest as “golf’s hottest new course,” Landmand’s grandeur and impeccable design also earned it the title of “Nebraska’s newest gift from the golf gods” by Golf.com. It’s an essential stop for any serious golfer.
Golfers venturing through Western Nebraska have access to endless lodging options for their comfort and convenience. Beyond golf, opportunities for outdoor activities are everywhere, including hiking, fishing, and attractions like Chimney Rock and the Scotts Bluff National Monument. Whether you choose a package or craft your own adventure, Western Nebraska guarantees an unforgettable golfing journey to embark on with your friends and family—your next getaway will certainly be one for the books.
For more information or to book a Golf the West package, visit golfnebraska.com.
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