Issuu

Here’s to the shine, the swing and the slow sip...

Welcome to June — our Gentlemen’s issue — where we shift the focus away from the ladies and onto the gents. With Father’s Day on the horizon, we’re dedicating this issue to the men who show us what it means to lead with quiet strength, steady hands and a deep sense of purpose.

At the center of this issue is Creighton University men’s baseball coach Ed Servais — a man who’s spent decades shaping not just players but people. His approach to baseball mirrors what many of us learned from our fathers or father figures: show up early, respect the work, do the little things right and let your character speak louder than your words.

It’s a fitting reminder as we raise a glass this month — not just to dads but to mentors, coaches, brothers and friends who’ve taught us that true luxury isn’t about flash; it’s about craft, care and the values that stand the test of time.

In this issue, we also take you inside the garages of car lovers who know the joy of a perfect detail job, the dealerships that understand the value of building relationships over transactions and sourcing only the best, the breweries where flavor is a matter of pride and the stories of men who find meaning in how they live and the legacy they’re building — not just what they own.

Whether you’re spending Father’s Day on the road, at the ballpark, around a backyard grill or missing the father in your life, we hope these pages remind you of what really matters.

Here’s to the shine, the swing and the slow sip.

Cheers,

STEPHANIE LEWIS, PUBLISHER

@ELKHORNCITYLIFESTYLE

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Stephanie Lewis

stephanie.m.lewis@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Nichole Peringer

nichole.peringer@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nichole Peringer, Christina Koch, Elizabeth Flaspohler, Casey Weber

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jennifer Studanski, Erin Dunagan, Nicholas Fisher

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

JUNE 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Nelson Produce Farm welcomed visitors to its inaugural Tulip Festival in April. 2: The Tulip Festival at Nelson Produce Farm featured more than 400,000 blooms across 35 varieties. 3: A windmill pays homage to the Dutch tulip heritage at Nelson Produce Farm’s Tulip Festival. 4: Shawn Davis and Jennifer Diaz celebrate goGLOW's grand opening with founder Melanie Richards and family. 5: Junkstock By the Sea welcomed crowds to a seaside oasis at Sycamore Farms. 6: Vintage boats, surfboards and shells galore set the stage for Junkstock By the Sea. 7: Junkstock By the Sea brought a treasure trove of photo opportunities, food and shopping.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

ISABELLA MCATEE

Bankers Trust Opens First Full-Service Branch in Elkhorn

Bankers Trust celebrated the grand opening of its first full-service location in Omaha. The event included a ribbon-cutting and remarks from bank leaders and officials from the Greater Omaha and West O chambers.

Although Bankers Trust has operated a loan production office in Omaha since 2008, the new full-service branch offers consumer banking services such as checking, savings and loans, as well as private banking, wealth management, commercial banking and treasury services.

Photography by Bankers Trust

goGLOW NW Omaha Celebrates Grand Opening

A new era of healthier, eco-friendly sunless tanning has come to Omaha. goGLOW NW Omaha opened Monday, May 5, at 3525 N. 147th St. goGLOW offers a customized spray tanning experience that is safe for your skin and gentle on the environment, providing a much-needed alternative to traditional tanning.

Pictured here, left to right, Myles Sanchez, Melanie Richards, Shawn Davis, Jennifer Diaz, Lindsay Davis, Rex Davis.

Photography by Isabella McAtee

Photography by Bottles & Barrels

soul+muse

NUCCA Chiropractic is a gentle, specific correction in the upper neck that takes the pressure off the brainstem so that it and the entire nervous system can function properly. Upper cervical chiropractors specialize in detecting and correcting misalignments of the top two bones in the neck. For many, this has provided natural relief for neck pain, chronic pain, dizziness, ear infections, asthma, allergies, headaches and migraines. Unity Wellness is about working together to restore movement, function and life.

Dr Danielle providing full body health through NUCCA Chiropractic and Functional Medicine.

Call to schedule your complementary consultation today.

ONE for THE BOOKS

ARTICLE BY NICHOLE PERINGER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN DUNAGAN AND JENNIFER STUDANSKI

Coach Ed Servais has become a fixture in Omaha, and his reputation precedes him. Known as Creighton’s winningest baseball coach, he racked up 10 conference championships and seven Coach of the Year awards with the most recent awarded for his 2025 season. His logistical support of the College World Series has also helped solidify his status as a local legend.

While the accolades are meaningful, sitting down with him on a sunny April afternoon makes it clear they pale in comparison to the relationships and memories built over his 28 years with the Bluejays. The plaques on the walls hold weight—but the framed pictures of past players, his wife, children and grandchildren clearly mean more.

THE HEART OF A BOY: EARLY DAYS

When asked how he developed his love for baseball, Servais describes his childhood in La Crosse, Wisconsin, fondly. With seven brothers and supportive parents, competition and camaraderie were part of daily life.

“My parents wanted to get us out of the house,” he says. “Anything that involved a ball—basketball, football, baseball—that’s what we did. We were very active, and I was just consumed by it.”

His passion led him to coaching, starting in 1982 at Rib Lake High School in Wisconsin, where he led the team to a 24-11 record. He would go on to coach at four colleges, including Iowa State, before joining Creighton University as an assistant coach in 1998.

He credits his father for helping him pursue a life in baseball.

“My dad was a great man. He didn’t know much about the game, but he told me, ‘Ed, find something you’re passionate about and you’ll be happy,’” Servais says. “I was fortunate to find that in coaching.”

THE HEART OF A LEADER: GROWTH AND IMPACT

In his early years at Creighton, Servais was known for being tough but fair. His first season as head coach in 2004 started with a disappointing loss.

“I’ll never forget it,” he says. “I didn’t think we should’ve lost. I was uptight—I wanted to get off to a good start.”

That fire fueled the rest of the season, and the Bluejays went 35-24, a sharp improvement from 2003. A win over Air Force marked a turning point, setting the stage for 2005’s record-breaking season.

Over time, Servais’ philosophy, strategy and methodology helped shape Creighton into a major powerhouse. During his 28-year tenure—including six years as assistant coach and 22 as head coach—he led the Bluejays to 698 wins, nine conference titles and 11 NCAA Tournament appearances.

One standout memory is the 2011 Missouri Valley Conference tournament, held at Creighton’s then-new stadium, TD Ameritrade Park. It was the

“MY DAD TOLD ME, ED, FIND something YOU’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT AND YOU’LL BE happy. I WAS fortunate TO FIND THAT IN coaching .”

first tournament played at the ballpark, making its champion the first team ever crowned on that field.

“We won the Missouri Valley Conference tournament at our new stadium, with 8,800 fans there,” he says. “When they played ‘Sweet Caroline’—I’m getting goosebumps just thinking about it—it was so special to hear that many people singing and cheering us on.”

In 2019, Servais led the team to a Big East title and earned his sixth Coach of the Year award. His defensive focus resulted in 12 top-10 national fielding rankings. Off the field, he helped support the College World Series by coordinating practice sites.

Throughout his success, Servais kept the focus on his players.

“I never wanted this to be about me,” he says. “I wanted it to always be about our players.”

Colleagues and athletes admired his ability to balance high standards with deep care.

“As a leader, you have to serve the people you work with,” Servais says. “Anything I ask our players to do, I’m doing with them. I’m not above anything. Sometimes they don’t realize that until they leave and look back—then they see I was right there with them.”

THE HEART OF A TEAM: FAITH AND COMMUNITY

Servais’ faith has shaped how he carries himself on and off the field, guiding him to view players as more than athletes.

“I’m a big believer in faith. I don’t wear it on my sleeve, but it’s important to me,” he says. “I think our players here at Creighton know that—it shows in how I conduct myself. They know this is a special place, and we treat them well because they matter.”

As college athletics evolve, Servais has made it a priority to build a culture of community, and his approach has softened with time.

“I’m probably a lot more patient now than when I started,” he says. “I’m more compassionate toward what they’re going through as student-athletes. I didn’t always see it that way.”

THE HEART OF FAMILY: LEGACY AND THE NEXT CHAPTER

Behind every great coach is a strong support system. For Servais, it’s his family—his wife, daughter and two sons.

“I couldn’t have done anything without their support,” he says. “My wife has really been a trooper through all of this. We’re not home very often this time of year. She made sure the kids got to their events. She deserves a ton of credit.”

It truly was a family affair. Servais’ son, Joe, played for the Bluejays in 2008. Looking back, Servais admitted it was a challenge for both of them.

“I didn’t do a particularly good job. I think I made it difficult for him,” he says. “But we look back and realize that was a special opportunity.”

These days, it’s the grandchildren who steal his heart.

“Everything they say about being a grandparent is true. It’s so much fun to watch these little ones grow up,” he says.

With six grandchildren, his life is full. He especially enjoys seeing them at games.

“My daughter’s oldest is now keeping score—she has her own scorebook,” he says. “It’s great having them there. After games, they’ll come on the field and run around a bit.”

As Servais prepares to retire and pass the baton to Mark Kingston—a coach he deeply respects—his voice softens with emotion.

“I look forward to maybe doing some things my wife wants to do instead of always doing what I need to do,” he says. “I look forward to walking off the field with her and enjoying the next phase of our life.”

FINAL REFLECTIONS

Humility has been described as “of the earth”—to be humble is to embrace one’s truest self: grounded, temporal and deeply valuable. When many think of Coach Servais and the legacy he has built—not only marked by wins but by the lives he touched—one word often comes to mind: humble.

Coach Servais with wife Anne, and grandchildren

Coach Ed Servais watches his grandkids on the field, cherishing their love for the game

“YOU HAVE TO serve THE PEOPLE YOU work WITH. ANYTHING I ASK OUR PLAYERS TO DO, I’M DOING with them. Sometimes THEY DON’T REALIZE THAT UNTIL THEY LOOK BACK—THEN THEY SEE I WAS right there WITH THEM.”

Humble, leading a small-city baseball team to nine conference championships. Humble, the first to arrive and the last to leave. Humble, working quietly in hotel rooms and on school buses after long days and strategy sessions. Humble, cultivating the potential in each of his players—just as Pat Venditte, an Omaha native and Creighton alum, experienced firsthand. Venditte is Major League Baseball’s last ambidextrous pitcher.

“Coach Servais had the ability to get every ounce of potential out of any player willing to commit to his direction. Playing for him prepares you to be an elite baseball player, but more importantly teaches you how to be a man, husband and father.”

Coach Ed Servais laid himself low and made himself of the earth—the same earth that sits on the mound at Charles Schwab Field.

This story shines a light on the legacy Coach Servais has built—not just on the field, but in the hearts of Omahans. For many in this city, including those who grew up in the stands at Rosenblatt Stadium as wide-eyed children, the feeling is simple: gratitude.

Gratitude that he came to Omaha. Gratitude that he stayed.

Coach Servais leaves behind more than a record of wins—he leaves a legacy of lasting impact on Creighton, his players, his family and this community. Happy retirement, Coach. Job well done.

Coach Servais with his wife, children and grandchildren

THE EXTRA MILE

ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA KOCH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICHOLAS FISHER

Since opening Country Auto in Blair in 2018, Joseph Russell has worked to build a reputation for trust and integrity in the used car industry. Through exceptional customer service, transparent business practices and strong relationships, Russell and his team have earned a reputation they’re proud of.

Country Auto sells high-quality, pre-owned vehicles, many of which are sourced from private sellers across the country. The inventory includes everything from unique luxury models to budget-friendly trucks, cars and SUVs—as well as campers, boats and motorcycles.

“I’ve got everything from Lamborghinis and Mercedes AMGs to a wide variety of economical trucks and cars on my lot,” Russell says. “And if I don’t have what you’re looking for, we’ll find it for you.”

Russell’s passion for cars began in childhood. He frequently told others he planned to own car dealerships when he grew up. Staying true to that dream, he worked his way up through the automotive industry and opened his own dealership at the age of 30.

Located just off highways 30 and 133 at the entrance to Blair, Country Auto features a welcoming showroom with floor-to-ceiling, east-facing windows that flood the space with natural light. The modern facility is designed to create an inviting experience for anyone who walks through the doors.

And when you’re there, you’re family. Russell can be found on site, greeting clients-turned-friends, checking in with mechanics or brewing a fresh pot of coffee. At Country Auto, the team makes it a priority to ensure every customer feels seen and heard. When you drive off the lot, you can feel confident not only in the vehicle you’ve purchased, but in knowing you’re more than just a transaction—you’re a valued part of the Country Auto family.

The dealership typically maintains an inventory of 150 to 200 vehicles, advertised on its website, www.countryautoblair.com, as well as third-party platforms like Cars.com and CarGurus.

With a staff of 18, Country Auto prides itself on providing a personalized, family-style experience. Customers typically interact directly with Russell and his general manager, Alex Nikiforuk,

Russell, pictured center, and his sales and management team, work to build relationships over transactions.

throughout the buying and selling process. That personal connection is why many customers—whether they’re highend car collectors or everyday Nebraska families—return time and again.

“We value and respect our customers’ time and hard-earned money,” Nikiforuk says. “We know visiting a dealership isn’t always a favorite task, so our goal is to make the process simple, transparent and easy. For us, it’s about more than selling vehicles—it’s about building lasting relationships founded on trust, respect and integrity.”

Russell and Nikiforuk spend much of their time sourcing vehicles. Sales staff are trained not only to sell cars but to purchase them as well.

To meet customer needs, Country Auto offers a full-service shop capable of handling everything from oil changes to engine rebuilds. The service department is open to the public, not just customers who purchased vehicles from Country Auto, and loaner cars are available when needed.

Every vehicle Country Auto sells undergoes a comprehensive inspection. Local vehicles are evaluated in-house, while those purchased from out of town are inspected at a dealership before shipment and re-inspected upon arrival.

The team, which includes a full service department, is ready and waiting to service both customers and newcomers alike

“We want to know exactly what we’re buying and selling to ensure there are no surprises for our customers,” Russell says. “Every car goes through a process—we don’t cut corners.”

For Russell, providing peace of mind is at the heart of the business. That means meeting customers’ vehicle needs, respecting their budgets and delivering the kind of exceptional customer service that sets Country Auto apart.

“I’m passionate about selling quality cars, taking care of my customers and doing what’s right, because I believe reputations are earned,” he said. “If I don’t take care of people and do the right thing, this won’t become the longstanding family business I’ve dreamed of building.”

Learn more at countryautoblair.com.

“FOR US, IT’S ABOUT MORE THAN SELLING VEHICLES—IT’S ABOUT BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS FOUNDED ON TRUST, RESPECT AND INTEGRITY.”

Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

Markets available nationwide

Learn more at future.citylifestyle.com

JUKES ALE WORKS

Where Family, Grit and Great Beer Meet in Elkhorn

ARTICLE BY NICHOLE PERINGER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER STUDANSKI

In the heart of Elkhorn, Nebraska — where sprawling Skyline Ranches meet the pulse of a growing town — Jukes Ale Works stands as a testament to family, grit and a cold, locally brewed pint.

Jukes Ale Works sits in the heart of downtown Elkhorn, a vibrant spot with its outdoor patio, attached brewery, and welcoming vibe

“I like to drink beer. And figuring out I could make it how I wanted — that was the hook.”

Inside its cozy taproom, the clink of glasses mingles with laughter as the Jukes family — Kyle, Stacy, Brad, Jake and their tireless parents — pour their hearts into every batch of beer and every plate of food. This isn’t just a brewery. It’s a homegrown haven rooted in Elkhorn’s small-town spirit and flavored with the Jukes’ trademark blend of stubbornness and good humor.

The story begins in the 1980s, when Guy and Terri Jukes married and chose to settle in Elkhorn’s Skyline area. They raised Kyle, Brad and Jake among soccer fields and bike trails. Now the head brewer, Kyle chuckles, “I probably rode my bike past the house Stacy and I live in now a million times growing up.”

Stacy, a military kid who moved to Nebraska in 2001, met Kyle at a college party in 2010. That meeting sparked a partnership that would eventually become Jukes Ale Works. Today, their three children — two

boys and a feisty 5-year-old daughter — roam the same neighborhood and attend Skyline Elementary just like their dad once did.

The brewery’s origin is as homespun as its atmosphere. Kyle began brewing on his parents’ kitchen counter after discovering an old Mr. Beer kit gathering dust in a closet. “I like to drink beer,” he says with a grin. “And figuring out I could make it how I wanted — that was the hook.”

What started with five-gallon garage batches became a full-fledged brewery in 2019. Kyle’s passion for water chemistry and hop balance — refined at the Siebel Institute — transformed recipes like Ninja Juice™ IPA (named by their then-2-year-old son) into local favorites. With hops from Christensen Hop Farm in Fort Calhoun and malts from Germany’s Weyermann, each pint reflects a dedication to both craft and community.

CONTINUED >

Guy, Kyle, Stacy and Brad Jukes stand behind the bar at Jukes Ale Works, an Elkhorn staple known for its craft beer and family roots

But Jukes Ale Works is more than just beer. It’s a family affair.

Stacy, now assistant brewer and event coordinator, once ran curbside orders during the COVID-19 pandemic with a newborn strapped to her chest. Brad, the general manager, transitioned from brewing to front-of-house operations to keep the taproom running smoothly. Jake, the youngest brother, leads the kitchen where happy accidents — like the creation of salted caramel wings — become menu staples.

Their parents — seasoned entrepreneurs from REI, Radio Engineering Industries — are the glue that holds it all together. Their dad, Guy, the self-proclaimed mascot, handles the hardware runs. Their mom, Terri, known as the “boss lady,” keeps both the family and the business on track. “She wears the pants,” Stacy says, laughing.

During the pandemic, the Jukes team got creative to survive, introducing themed dress-up days — Western, ’80s workout and more — and managing to fill 600 crowlers on a single Saturday. “We’re stubborn,” Kyle says. “Goonies never say die.”

That blend of resilience and playfulness defines Jukes. Beers like Rolly Squishy, named after Kyle’s mishap with a utility vehicle, come with their own family stories. As Elkhorn continues to grow, Jukes Ale Works remains at its heart — a place where teachers, neighbors and newcomers gather to share a pint that tastes like home.

Kyle Jukes, head brewer, pulls a fresh glass of beer from one of his large serving tanks

A Passion

ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH FLASPOHLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK BROS

Elkhorn Auto Spa Elevates the Typical Car Detail

for Detail

When it comes to caring for your car, few know it better than local car enthusiast Mark Bro. Bro is the owner and operator of Elkhorn Auto Spa & Paint Correction, nestled in the heart of Elkhorn. Bro launched the business in 2019, but his passion for cars and detailing began long before that.

“I’ve been detailing since I was 15,” Bro says. “I always loved seeing and driving different kinds of cars, and detailing seemed like the perfect way to work on them without needing mechanical skills.”

“THE ELKHORN COMMUNITY HAS BEEN INCREDIBLY SUPPORTIVE. THE SMALL-TOWN VIBE IS DEFINITELY ALIVE HERE, AND IT FEELS LIKE THE COMMUNITY GENUINELY WANTS TO SEE SMALL BUSINESSES LIKE MINE SUCCEED.”

A West Omaha native, he got his start at Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, and after graduating from Millard West, he moved to Colorado. There, he honed his expertise in ceramic coatings and high-end finishes, earning the prestigious Gtechniq-accredited installer designation. Gtechniq high-performance ceramic coatings are among the highest quality in the industry.

Bro soon returned to Nebraska to open the first and only dedicated full-service detail shop in West Omaha and to become the area’s first Gtechniqaccredited installer.

“There were no detailing places out here when I started,” he says of choosing Elkhorn as his home. “The Elkhorn community has been incredibly supportive. The small-town vibe is definitely alive here, and it feels like the community genuinely wants to see small businesses like mine succeed.”

Bro and his two team members share a passion for working on vehicles of all shapes and sizes — from classic antiques and everyday cars to RVs, boats and recreational vehicles.

“Quality is super important to me and my business,” he says— and it shows. The team meticulously performs full exterior washes with the same care they give to complete details. “I still get a little nervous when I hand over the keys to a customer,” Bro says with a small laugh. “But every time, I’m met with smiles and amazement, which motivates me to give my best effort on every vehicle.”

Bro’s attention to detail and commitment to perfection set the vehicles he works on apart. Recently, his shop won Best in Show awards at World of Wheels

Bro services more than just cars; he also specializes in air- and watercraft.

with an orange and white 1969 Chevy Camaro and an H3 Hummer truck. In the case of the Hummer, the customer had tried for several years to win but succeeded only after receiving exceptional service from Bro and his team.

When Bro isn’t winning awards for craftsmanship, he channels his passion for cars into giving back to the community. “I want to give back as much as I can,” he says. Bro is a proud sponsor of the Elkhorn Public Schools Foundation and has donated complete detailing packages to support fundraising efforts for cerebral palsy research and the American Heart Association.

Have a classic car that needs to shine, or an everyday car that just needs some TLC? Call Mark Bro at Elkhorn Auto Spa & Paint Correction for all your professional detailing needs. Learn more at elkhornautospa.com and mention Elkhorn City Lifestyle for 20% off your next service.

realty report

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 29TH - JUNE 1ST

Elkhorn Days

The Relevant Center, Ta-Ha-Zouka Park and OCI

Join the fun at Elkhorn Days, the annual celebration of the Elkhorn, Nebraska, community! This four-day festival features the area’s largest parade, live music, vendor booths, kids’ activities, a Cornhole tournament, a beer garden, fireworks and a car show. Visit elkhorndays.org for event details.

JUNE 1ST

Elkhorn Days Car Show

4221 N 203rd St., Elkhorn | 10:00 AM

The Elkhorn Days Car Show sells out every year, filling the entire OCI parking lot with some of the coolest cars in the area. Classic cars, brand-new muscle cars, old-school MOPARs, and more fill every stall. Prizes are awarded to the top vehicles in nearly a dozen categories. Learn more at elkhorndays.org/car-show.

JUNE 6TH - 8TH & JUNE 13TH - 15TH

Nelson Produce Farm Annual Strawberry Fest

10505 N. 234th St., Valley

Sweet days. Juicy berries. Farm fun for the whole family. Celebrate the start of summer at the annual Strawberry Festival! This berryfilled event offers activities for all ages, including all-you-can-eat strawberries, pick-your-own strawberries, strawberry-themed crafts and games, and delicious strawberry treats and drinks. Enjoy animal interactions, hayrack rides, play areas and more! Learn more and buy tickets at nelsonproducefarm.com/strawberry-fest.

JUNE 12TH

High Heel Band LIVE at Village Pointe

17305 Davenport St., Omaha | 6:30 PM

Get ready to see High Heel Band live Thursday, June 12, during Village Pointe Vibes! Kick up your heels and kick off summer with live music from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Village Pointe amphitheater.

JUNE 14TH - 15TH

Father’s Day Weekend Car Show at SAC Aerospace Museum

28210 W. Park Highway, Ashland | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The annual Father’s Day Car Show is rolling back into the SAC Aerospace Museum. This year, the floor is open to all show cars—classic, custom and more! If it turns heads, it belongs here. Vehicles will be displayed throughout the museum, parked alongside aircraft and spacecraft for a one-of-a-kind showcase of chrome and craftsmanship. Learn more at visitomaha.com.

JUNE 23RD

Fourth Annual Core Bank Cares Golf Tournament

Champions Run, 13800 Eagle Run Dr., Omaha | 10:30 AM

Join Core Bank for a day of golf at the Fourth Annual Core Bank Cares Golf Tournament on June 23 at Champions Run, a fundraising event benefiting the Nebraska Diaper Bank. This four-person team event includes lunch, dinner, pin prizes, raffles and more. Learn more and register at corebank.com/golf-tournament.

events

CONTINUED

JUNE 26TH - 28TH

Country Drive Music Fest

951 Co Rd., 4, Ashland

Join Country Drive Live in Ashland, Neb., June 26-28, 2025, for the Country Drive Music Fest. Enjoy live country music from acts including Gary Allan, Treaty Oak Revival, and LOCASH. The weekend will also feature food trucks, RV and tent camping and a lineup of dynamic local and national talent! Learn more at countrydrivelive.com.

JUNE 27TH

Freedom Fest at Nelson Produce Farm

10505 N. 234th St., Valley

Celebrate summer and the spirit of freedom at Freedom Night, a special evening filled with fun and patriotic pride. Bring the family to the farm for a night of community, celebration and a sky full of stars. The event will feature a fireworks show, all-American food and treats and fun for all ages! Learn more and buy tickets at nelsonproducefarm.com/freedom-fest.

JUNE 27TH

The City of Omaha's Memorial Park Concert and Fireworks Show

6005 Underwood Ave., Omaha | 6:30 PM

Enjoy a free concert featuring Ringo Starr and His All Starr Band and very special guest Mike Campbell and The Dirty Knobs, along with the region's largest fireworks display! Put your blanket in the park at 5am to save your spot and enjoy this Omaha tradition. Learn more at memorialparkconcert.com.

The Perfect Steak

ARTICLE BY CASEY WEBER, TALL GRASS MEAT COMPANY

Nothing describes summer better than a good cookout! And what is a cookout without a good, quality steak and the perfect grilling recipe?

1. Thaw and acclimate the steak. For searing to occur, the proteins in steak need to be heated to at least 310°F. Tossing cold meat onto a hot grill lowers the temperature and can prevent a crust from forming, so it’s important that any frozen steaks are thawed completely before cooking.

2. Salt your steak 30-45 minutes before grilling. This causes the salt to draw moisture from within the steak up to the surface, where it dissolves the salt and creates a brine that gets reabsorbed into the steak where it breaks down tough connective tissues.

3. Oil the grate on the grill, not the steak. Use tongs and a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to lube your grates.

4. Manage your heat well. Remember that your grill needs to be hot for your steak to get a good sear. But if it’s hot enough to cause your oil to smoke, it’s too hot.

5. Use the 60/40 rule. The best-tasting steaks are seared on both sides and cooked evenly in the middle. The simplest way to do that is to only flip your steak once. The 60/40 rule suggests that 60% of your cook time should be spent on one side, and 40% on the other.

6. Keep the lid closed. It may be tempting to peek, but trust the experts and keep it shut! Opening the lid makes your grill lose heat, which makes steaks cook unevenly.

7. Check for doneness. A meat thermometer will give you the most accurate temperature reading:

• Rare: 120°F

• Medium Rare: 130°F

• Medium: 140°F

• Medium Well: 150°F

• Well: 160°F

8. Let your steak rest. Pull your steaks from the grill once they’re cooked to 5-10 degrees below your target temperature and rest for 10-15 minutes.