“People don’t think about how things end up on their doorstep. We do.”
Brian Elsasser Commercial Lending
THE BOLDLY REDESIGNED BMW X7.
Th e b a r fo r l u x u r y h a s b e e n ra i s e d . W i t h a d v a n c e d t e c h n o l o g y a n d a n e x q u i s i t e i n t e r i o r, t h e re d e s i g n e d B M W X 7 o f fe rs a n e l e g a n t a n d m e m o ra b l e d r i v i n g e x p e r i e n c e
Ta ke c h a rg e o f t h e j o u r n ey w i t h u p t o 5 2 3 h o rs e p o w e r a t yo u r d i s p o s a l , a n d a r r i ve a t yo u r d e s t i n a t i o n w i t h u n m i s t a ka b l e p re s e n c e . Th e l a t e s t m o d e l i n c l u d e s u n i q u e fe a t u re s s u c h a s s p l i t h e a d l i g h t s a n d B M W ’ s l a t e s t i D r i ve 8 o p e ra t i n g sy s t e m E n j oy o n e o f t h re e ro w s o f p l u s h l e a t h e r s e a t s t h a t g u a ra n t e e a l u x u r i o u s r i d e , n o m a t t e r w h e re yo u s i t .
W i t h t h e l a t e s t f i n i s h i n g t o u c h e s , p a c ka g e d i n i t s g ra n d s i l h o u e t t e , t h e 2 0 2 3 B M W X 7 d e m a n d s t o b e n o t i c e d .
Th i s i s t h e U l t i m a t e D r i v i n g M a c h i n e . ®
Co 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 7 t o d a y.
BMW of Omaha 14800 Branch Street
Omaha, NE 68154 (402) 3939700
bmwofomaha com
Keeping Vehicles Running Right and Technicians Moving Forward
Story by Jacie Leibfried // Photography by Sarah Lemke
A POWERING PEOPLE AND PARTS
shley Brown, automotive parts manager at ONYX, fell in love with the behind-the-scenes work of the automotive industry at just 19. At a time in her life where she was searching for a much different job path after graduating high school, the automotive industry was the last place she expected to be.
“My dad was a service manager at a Ford store. I got a call from him saying they needed help in the parts warehouse,” Brown recalled. “I thought it was for a couple days, and then I would go back to finding a job; the joke was on me, they were hiring me for full-time work. Little did I know how much I would enjoy it!”
A few days turned into several years in the automotive industry—she began her career at ONYX 31 years ago.
Brown had a two-year position in the service department at ONYX, but she truly found her niche in other positions. She was a shipping and receiving manager for almost 17 years and transitioned to parts inventory control manager just under four years ago.
“Parts management is about keeping the inventory on the straight and narrow, making sure things are where they should be and all expenses are accounted for,” she explained. But that’s not the part of the job that Brown values the most. For her, the loyalty to ONYX for the past 31 years is made all the easier by the team she is surrounded by.
“Parts manager also entails leading people,” she added, “and I say that my one true job is taking care of my people.” Brown’s extensive experience in this area has afforded her a multitude of op-
portunities to test her leadership skills and make certain her team can function as a well-oiled unit. “It brings me such joy teaching others what I have learned over the years and seeing them blossom and grow as individuals and as a team.”
Brown also attributes part of the team success to her co-manager, Matt Hawkins, highlighting their 20 years of working together as key to getting the job done and having fun doing it. Leaving no one unappreciated, she gives everyone their flowers, including all 12 associates. “Our two leads are amazing,” she said. “The team works so well together. I really drive to work smiling because I know how awesome the team at ONYX is!”
Managing all the moving parts—literally—at ONYX means that Brown does not interact on a regular basis with clients at the dealership. However, she emphasized that clients and their relationship to the dealership are still important parts of her day. These considerations factor into her decisions and impact how positively she feels about ONYX’s responsibilities, and their performance of those responsibilities with their clientele.
“I love making clients happy, and even though I don’t always deal directly with them, it’s a good feeling to know someone is being taken care of with the level of best-in-class service we provide,” she explained. Brown’s attitude demonstrates that motto, embodying the value that each person who walks in the dealership can know for certain that they are cared for at each step in the process.
“IT BRINGS ME SUCH JOY TEACHING OTHERS WHAT I HAVE LEARNED OVER THE YEARS AND SEEING THEM BLOSSOM AND GROW AS INDIVIDUALS AND AS A TEAM.”
- ASHLEY BROWN
Working at ONYX also means being a customer herself when the opportunity presents itself. When it comes to her personal vehicle, Brown appreciates elegance and refinement, and knows that she can get exactly the features she values from the ONYX inventory.
“I currently drive a 2015 BMW X5,” she said. “I love driving my BMW; the best feeling is getting behind the wheel and starting the V8 up! That grumble of the V8 makes me smile, knowing I can go fast but don’t have to. I have been looking out for an X6 or X7, but I just love driving it.”
The luxury crossover SUV is perfect for Brown’s daily life, as well as any and all adventures with her family. “I have two dogs that I love to death and my husband who supports me in my role at ONYX, and I couldn’t do this without them by my side.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
WORK HAR D, PLAY HARD
Partners in life, business, and adventure, Jerris and Micah Peatrowsky know that the secret recipe for the life of their dreams is teamwork, elbow grease, and taking time to simply enjoy the benefits of their effort.
Story by Sara Locke // Photography by Sarah Lemke
For Jerris Peatrowsky, what began as a career in care became a business built on helping others feel their very best.
“When I started my career in healthcare, I worked as a CNA. I got to be the one to take care of my beautiful grandma after a serious car accident,” Jerris recalled. “That time was so important to me. Having that knowledge and getting to use my personal experience to be of service to her when she needed it, that was when I knew I would continue pursuing nursing.”
Jerris continued to work in medicine as she earned her LPN, RN, and while pursuing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The hours were long and the work was physically and emotionally taxing, but it was about to pay off in ways Jerris wasn’t anticipating.
“I was working in the ICU during COVID,” she said. “That’s where I met my husband.”
Micah was a fellow RN during the pandemic, and the two bonded over their shared commitment to their patients, along with their plans for brighter days.
“IT WAS THE RIGHT MOVE. HE’S SO HAPPY, AND HE’S WORKED SO HARD TO MAKE OUR DREAM LIFE COME TRUE. SEEING HIM IN HIS DREAM CAR IS JUST THE CHERRY ON TOP, SHOWING THAT ALL OF OUR EFFORT IS TRULY WORTH IT.”
— JERRIS PEATROWSKY
“The ICU was so devastating, and we were ready to walk away from it,” Jerris said. “We did some travel nursing and started talking about what our future might look like.”
Micah, known for his kind heart and brutally fast fists, is a semi-retired freestyle mixed martial artist with more wins than losses under his belt. While he found some relief from the demands of their shared career in the ring, Jerris was looking for a new way to utilize her skills and certifications.
“Shifting toward working with veterans has been so wonderful for me,” she said. “I do disability exams and see usually 50 veterans a week. Honestly, I spend more hours doing state reports than seeing patients, but that usually comes home with me to work on after I put my son to bed.”
And that’s only her part-time gig. The Peatrowskys recently opened a boutique med spa in West Omaha.
“Micah and I have done 100% of the renovations aside from hanging the chandeliers,” Jerris said. “Micah did the floors—he’s so precise! I painted and hung wall paper. We have put so much of our hearts into this, and we are just so proud of it.”
But they didn’t just build their business together—they’ll be clocking in side-by-side as well. Alongside their third partner, Sage Bailey, the team will offer rejuvenation services like Botox, filler, microneedling, hair restoration, and more.
On an unexpected weekend off, the pair followed a wild urge to go look at their dream vehicles. Just something to do with a few spare hours, she said, a clearer picture for their vision board.
“We showed up to the [ONYX] dealership completely unannounced on a Saturday in July just to browse,” Jerris recalled. “We met Daniel Schwartz, and he was really friendly and easygoing. We told him we were just looking, and after a few questions, he already knew exactly what we were looking for.”
They knew the time had come to get Micah a new vehicle—but his dream Jaguar wasn’t the first thing that caught the pair’s eye.
“Micah saw a Land Rover Defender and insisted I just sit in it,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting to love it so much, and he just looked at me and said, ‘This car was made for you—we have to get it!’”
While the smile on his wife’s face was enough for Micah, he was still the one in need of a new vehicle.
“We work so hard, from sun up to sun down, keeping up our jobs and building our business, in addition to raising Krew,” Jerris said. “It was time that we did something that was really just about being happy. Enjoying the fruits of our labors. I told him he needed to get his dream car.”
Micah saw a black 2024 Jaguar F-PACE and was immediately in love, but insisted on driving home in a slower, more sensible vehicle instead.
“Working with Jorge Escamilla made doing the financials so easy,” Jerris added. “Everyone at the dealership was just amazing to work with! And we left, happy with our deals. But Micah seemed a little reserved.”
“Sunday night, we had Daniel on the phone to tell him we had a serious case of buyer’s remorse,” she continued. “He was so receptive and accommodating, and was able to stop the paperwork just in time.”
The pair returned to the dealership and exchanged their sensible new purchase for the black F-PACE Micah deserved.
“It was the right move. He’s so happy, and he’s worked so hard to make our dream life come true,” Jerris said. “Seeing him in his dream car is just the cherry on top, showing that all of our effort is truly worth it.”
To visit the Peatrowsky pair for your beauty needs, visit The Look Aesthetic at 17940 Welch Plaza Bay 104. To experience Dan and Jorge’s exceptional customer service, visit onyxautomotive.com.
PINTS & PICKLEBALL
Ashland Brewing Company Serves More Than Beer
Story by Isaac Nielsen // Photography by Sarah Lemke
t’s not every day you find yourself sipping a locally brewed English porter one moment and serving on a pickleball court the next, but Ashland Brewing Company isn’t your average spot. The newly opened venue, located just off the interstate in Ashland, Nebraska, blends the charm of a sleek taproom with the competitive fun of a pickleball complex. Not surprisingly, it works.
IWith a well-designed, unique floor plan, the space feels expansive despite routinely hosting large crowds at mealtimes. Inside and to the left, you’ll find two polished indoor pickleball courts for times when the weather isn’t perfect. On one side are countertop rails where players and spectators can set down their drinks, and the half-garage doors above help circulate air to cool the area down. Flat-screen TVs line the walls overhead to help the courts double as a casual sports bar—though ABC would never call itself that. Outside are a few more courts, along with a lawn of outdoor games like cornhole and oversized Jenga. On a nice day, the place feels less like a brewery and more like a backyard party at your neighbor’s house.
We didn’t just come for the games, though—you can find a decent pickleball court just about anywhere. Ashland Brewing Company offers food that certainly holds its own.
The star of our table was the elote trash can nachos that arrived in a literal coffee can, which was then lifted tableside with flair to unveil a tower of flavor. House-made tortilla chips stacked with southwest chicken, corn queso, pico de gallo, lettuce, and a mildly sweet chipotle drizzle made for a plate we quickly polished off. The texture of the southwest chicken might not be for everyone, as it’s a bit softer than you might expect, but its flavor certainly held up.
“THE NEWLY OPENED VENUE, LOCATED JUST OFF THE INTERSTATE IN ASHLAND, NEBRASKA, BLENDS THE CHARM OF A SLEEK TAPROOM WITH THE COMPETITIVE FUN OF A PICKLEBALL COMPLEX. NOT SURPRISINGLY, IT WORKS.”
- ISAAC NIELSEN
The same chicken appeared again in the spicy chicken garlic pinsa, a Romanstyle flatbread with roasted garlic, tomato garlic pesto, pickled red onion, and a buffalo drizzle. It had just enough kick to keep you reaching for your drink, but not enough to overwhelm.
From the handhelds section, we tried both the cheeseburger and the smoked salmon BLT sliders. ABC didn’t miss with its burger, with juicy Angus beef patties that were just what you would look for in a “handheld.” The sliders were more unique, combining honeysmoked salmon with applewood bacon, tomato, dill cream, and a slaw mix that added a welcome bitterness to balance the sweet brioche buns. The fish was served cold, which may surprise some diners, but it was ultimately a fresh and satisfying combo.
Ashland Brewing Company offers plenty of the classics, like burgers, wings, chicken tenders, salads, and other sandwiches. Dessert is a bit more creative, as we eyed a s’mores-loaded waffle and cinnamon-sugar pretzel bites with dips for next time. Wednesdays feature the Linoma Lobster Roll, which has apparently quickly become a local favorite.
GOURMET
On the beverage front, Ashland Brewing Company offers around five house brews on a rotating weekly basis, refreshing every Wednesday. The English brown porter was a solid choice: dark and smooth, with a coffee-flavored note.
For non-beer drinkers, the cocktail menu is refreshing and inventive. The Flora, with gin, lavender, honey, and lemon, is a visually appealing pale pink, which was described as summer in a glass. The Salt Creek ’Rita had all the tartness of a margarita, with a bold IPA splash added to the mix to give it a nice limeade aura. Similarly, the Willow offered a cucumber-lime burst and is available with either vodka or gin. And for cider fans, ABC offers Glacial Till, produced just down the road.
Windows inside the main hall give a peek at the brewing area, but it’s a subtle nod rather than a focal point. If you’re not looking for it, you might miss it entirely. The same can’t be said for Ashland Brewing Company as a whole. It’s flashy and beckoning from the outside, and keeps locals and road-trippers alike coming back to relax, eat well, sip something crafted, and even break a sweat.
For more information, visit ashlandbrewco.com
FUELED FOR A CAUSE
ONYX Automotive Tackles Hunger with Heartland’s Strike Out Hunger Campaign
Column by Lindsey Hinchcliff-Crotty // Photo Provided
As part of our ongoing ONYX Driving Good initiative, ONYX Automotive proudly joined forces—for the second year in a row—with the Food Bank for the Heartland’s Strike Out Hunger campaign to combat food insecurity across Nebraska and western Iowa. This year, the Food Bank’s goal was to raise enough to provide 400,000 meals throughout the month of June. Thanks to the generosity of local businesses, volunteers, and local supporters, that goal was not only met, but surpassed—delivering more than 450,000 meals to those who need it most.
Food insecurity affects thousands of families, children, and veterans in our region every single day. At ONYX Automotive, we believe in rolling up our sleeves and doing our part. This June, we did just that. Throughout the month, ONYX served as a dedicated drop-off
location for nonperishable food donations. Our team stepped up in a big way, and together we gathered nearly 700 pounds of food.
In addition to food donations, ONYX also raised $300 in financial contributions. With every dollar providing three meals, that’s over 900 meals supported through monetary donations alone. It’s the small acts of generosity that added up to big results.
One of the most fun (and competitive) parts of the month was our food sculpture contest. ONYX team members channeled their creativity into building an epic College World Series Baseball stadium—entirely out of canned food! The sculpture was not only a crowdpleaser, but also a powerful reminder of the impact we can all have when rallying around a cause.
As part of the H+H Group, ONYX contributed to a broader effort that raised a total of 2,906 pounds of food, earning the #1 spot for the most food raised by a business group in the Food Bank’s campaign. We were one of 25 participating businesses, all coming together to make a tangible difference in the lives of Heartland families.
Whether it was donating a can, spare change, or a dollar, the ONYX team rallied to strike out hunger in our community. Continue to see how ONYX is making a difference in the next issue of ONYX magazine. We’ll share how the team makes spirits brighter for those in need this holiday season.
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com/driving-good .
S a y h e l l o t o t h e 2 0 2 5 B M W i 4 .
3939700 bmwofomaha.com T H E N E W E L E C T R I C STA N DA R D.
JUNKSTOCK HARVEST EDITION
Vintage Finds, Live Tunes, and More at Sycamore Farms
Story by Natalie Veloso // Photos courtesy of Junkstock
The best fall days end with your boots covered in a little mud. At Sycamore Farms in Waterloo, that means weaving your way through hay bales stacked high and rows of pumpkins catching the afternoon light. For two weekends each year, the fields and barns transform into Junkstock Harvest Edition, a vintage-lover’s paradise overflowing with antiques and a live soundtrack to groove along with.
The festival returns this year on Oct. 3-5 and 10-12, marking its official 13th year as one of the Midwest’s most eclectic celebrations. All kinds of pumpkin and apple baked goods rule the farm alongside more than 250 vendors and over 20 food trucks. A day at Junkstock tends to end with a full camera roll, and perhaps even a 1960s velvet chair in tow.
While the spring version of the festival is all about fresh blooms and outdoor revival, the harvest edition leans into seasonal comfort. Visitors can wander through rows of mums, step inside a giant pumpkin house, sip cider, and take a stroll through the farm as they shop. Much like a flea market, vintage vendors set up across the fields and inside every barn. Leashed pets and all-ages families are welcome (kids 12 and under even get in free).
Browsing the stands at Junkstock is any collector’s dream—vendors and artisans bring treasures from all across the country. The vendor lineup spans antiques, salvaged architectural finds, handmade jewelry, boho clothing, and one-of-a-kind repurposed pieces. Early birds race in at opening to claim statement furniture, rare collectibles, and industrial décor before anyone else spots them. Casual browsers can wander slowly and pause at stalls where artisans hammer out jewelry or paint custom signs. No matter what you’re searching for, there’s a sense that the perfect piece might be just one barn over.
Still, eating your way through Junkstock is half the fun. Got a sweet tooth? Start at the Donut Factory across from the Coffee House for classic apple cider donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar. Need something hearty? Food trucks serve up brisket sandwiches, woodfired pizza, and chili that tastes like it came straight from a tailgate. Other sweet fall favorites like pumpkin spice lattes, hot chocolate, and still-warm kettle corn are an excellent choice, and of course, the festival’s signature bloody marys—garnished like a small meal—are practically a tradition.
The Junkstock Stage keeps the live music energy rolling from morning into night, no matter what time you show up. Weekend one high -
lights this year include Rum Runner, Sinners N Saints, and BLOW YOUR TOP: a tribute to ZZ Top, with the Saturday night crown jewel this year—Landslide: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac (Oct. 4, 8-11 p.m.), free with admission. Weekend two brings acts like The Pinheads, Gallivant, Soul Collision, and Charm School Dropouts.
Sycamore Farms’ 135 acres were once a working horse farm, and the layout still reflects that open, easy flow. Expect dirt or soft grass underfoot, so bring comfortable shoes and a light jacket for when the sun sets and the chill sets in.
Families often gravitate toward the Kids Village, a dedicated area with games, crafts, and plenty of photoworthy setups, the pumpkin house being the seasonal showstopper. From the iconic teal Volkswagen bus at the entrance to vendor booths styled like living rooms from another era, Junkstock is made for lingering.
By Sunday night of the second weekend, as the barns empty and the food trucks roll out, Sycamore Farms will settle back into quiet— but only until springtime hits. Until then, you have just two weekends to wander, shop, and soak it all in.
For more information, visit junkstock.com
“FOR TWO WEEKENDS EACH YEAR, THE FIELDS AND BARNS TRANSFORM INTO JUNKSTOCK HARVEST EDITION, A VINTAGELOVER’S PARADISE OVERFLOWING WITH ANTIQUES AND A LIVE SOUNDTRACK TO GROOVE ALONG WITH.”
NATALIE VELOSO
B STREET COLLISION:
Taking the Stress Away from An Accident
Story by Holly McAtee // Photography by Sarah Lemke
Experiencing an auto collision can be stressful, so when you need assistance, ONYX’s partnership with the B Street Collision Center steps in to make the process seamless.
B Street Collision has a representative working on-site at the ONYX dealership full-time. With the convenience factor of having someone look at your vehicle onsite, ONYX clients get trusted service and streamlined repairs. If needed, they can port the vehicle from the ONYX dealership to any of the B Street locations. Using the collision concierge at ONYX ensures an effortless repair process to help you get back on the road faster.
“B Street is the only certified BMW collision center in Omaha. We are also getting certified in Jaguar and Land Rover. We must have certain equipment. Our facility is checked to make sure it’s top-of-class to be working on a high-end luxury vehicle,” said Bobby Wiese, vice president and co-owner of B Street Collision.
The size of B Street allows them to be more efficient with vehicles at any time and fit them into their schedule. “We have allotted slots. We can get parts ordered within 24 hours. We take it in and get it back to you as soon as possible,” Weiss added.
They offer factory parts and a lifetime warranty as long as you own the vehicle. This is unique, as most body shops must use aftermarket parts because of insurance policies. “We are able to go around that because of our size and purchasing power. We maximize those opportunities, and we only supply the car with factory parts,” Wiese said.
“Our operational model is different,” he continued. “We run in a team-based for-
mat. We have perfected our model to get the vehicle fixed and keep the customer informed. We are the largest collision center in the state. Customer service and repeat business are important to us.”
Family-owned and operated since 1978, the business was originally founded by Bob and Norma Wiese. After Bob’s passing in 1999, their sons Tony, Zach, and Bobby took over the business.
“We started to grow in 2008 and have been growing ever since. Our mission is to provide good quality customer service repairs. We want to grow and service the communities and markets that we are in,” Wiese said.
ONYX offers a full range of services to meet your auto-body repair needs, including:
• Dent and Scratch Repair: Expert removal of dents and scratches to restore your vehicle’s pristine appearance.
• Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): An efficient, cost-effective solution for minor dents to maintain the original paintwork.
• Frame Straightening: Precision alignment of your vehicle’s frame using advanced technology.
• Auto Painting : Professional painting services to perfectly match your vehicle’s original color and finish.
• Glass Repair and Replacement: Skilled repair and replacement of damaged windshields and windows.
• Detailing Services: Comprehensive detailing to rejuvenate your car’s interior and exterior.
When dealing with a European luxury high-end vehicle repair, parts delays can cause overall repair delays. One thing B Street Collision does is disassemble the vehicle to eliminate any unknowns about the parts needed. They create a repair plan and order the necessary parts, ensuring a predictable outcome. This process prevents starting the repair with missing components. Every vehicle at B Street goes through this process, creating an assembly line approach that allows for efficient reassembly. This helps
“NOT ONLY ARE WE FIXING THE CAR, BUT WE ARE DETAILING IT AND CLEANING UP EXTRA SCUFFS THAT MIGHT NOT BE RELATED. WHEN THEY GET THEIR CAR BACK, THEY ARE HAPPY AND WOWED.”
- BOBBY WIESE
eliminate delays, price changes, and confusion, leading to a more accurate repair process.
“We also manage the insurance claims for the customer and negotiate on their behalf, so the car is repaired with quality safe repairs,” Wiese added.
The service experience at B Street Collision is constantly being upgraded. Every collision repair center has one unified promise: “unparalleled quality for our customers every step of the way.”
“We’re never going to be perfect, fixing 2,000 cars a month, but our customers
constantly give feedback that their vehicle looks better. Not only are we fixing the car, but we are detailing it and cleaning up extra scuffs that might not be related. When they get their car back, they are happy and wowed,” Wiese explained.
ONYX Automotive works hard to give white glove service to all their customers. The B Street Collision partnership is just one example of how ONYX delivers the best customer service to their clients.
For more information, visit bstreetcollision.com/find-a-location/ onyx-automotive
SOPHISTICATED STUNNER
Sleek, Solid Range Rover Velar Autobiography Turns Heads
Story by Dwain Hebda // Photography by Sarah Lemke
Range Rovers aren’t exactly known for subtlety, given they are built to be one of the true go-anywhere—and we mean anywhere—vehicles on the planet. Yet, when the designers at the legendary car company put their minds to it, they have shown a deft artistic touch, bringing things down to their essential, elegant best.
Such is the feeling one gets upon first sight of the 2026 Range Rover Velar Autobiography, a solidly built workhorse that doesn’t spare function, but wraps it in a sophisticated modern form.
“This vehicle gives a modern, minimalistic look,” said Roxanna “Roxy” Garate, client advisor with ONYX Automotive in Omaha. “Jaguar Land Rover is using ‘modern luxury’ as their word tracking right now, and this matches that thinking. It’s had a little bit of a facelift in the front end, the grill, the modern lights front and back. As a result, anyone who is into the minimalistic, modern look is going to find the Velar Autobiography very, very appealing.”
She continued, “It’s definitely got its own unique silhouette. It’s sporty. It sits tall, it has really good cabin space. It just fits right in there between a smaller SUV and a full-size, striking that balance for clients who want to sit a little taller on the road, but don’t necessarily need something so big. This offers a really good size for that ‘in-between’ type of clients.”
The Velar Autobiography achieves its aesthetic in part due to the abundant technology at work, which consolidates many functions into touch- and voiceactivated features of the sweeping digital command center that used to be handled by switch or toggle.
“Inside, you have the standard, what we call PV Pro 11.4-inch touchscreen, which is what is going to give you a lot of information and a lot of the different capabilities of different drive modes,” Garate said. “You have voice assistance through this technology, like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Spotify, maps, and so on, that allows for this sleek design inside the cabin.”
Techwonders Insights raved about the 2026 design changes, saying, “The signature floating roof and flush door handles remain, but sharper LED headlights with laser-light technology and a recontoured grille give it a more assertive stance. New alloy wheel designs and extended color palettes (including a stunning ‘Ethereal Blue’ matte finish) elevate its gallery-ready presence. Aerodynamic tweaks reduce drag by 8%, enhancing efficiency without compromising its head-turning silhouette.”
The reaction is unanimous. “This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a confident stride into the future of luxury SUV aesthetics, blending minimalist elegance with bolder, tech-infused details that signal its next-generation status.”
Of course, all of this is just window dressing without the guts to get one where they need to go, but fear not—the Velar Autobiography has the muscle to go with its pretty lines. Under the hood is a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine that packs 395 horsepower and covers 0-60 in a tick over five seconds.
The vehicle features electronic air suspension and adaptive dynamics while riding on 21-inch wheels, standard. Drive assistance abounds, from 3D surround cameras and blind spot assist to adaptive cruise control with steering assist and front and rear parking aid, to name a few.
“JAGUAR LAND ROVER IS USING ‘MODERN LUXURY’ AS THEIR WORD TRACKING RIGHT NOW, AND THIS MATCHES THAT THINKING. IT’S HAD A LITTLE BIT OF A FACELIFT IN THE FRONT END, THE GRILL, THE MODERN LIGHTS FRONT AND BACK. AS A RESULT, ANYONE WHO IS INTO THE MINIMALISTIC, MODERN LOOK IS GOING TO FIND THE VELAR AUTOBIOGRAPHY VERY, VERY APPEALING.”
- ROXANNA GARATE
The Velar Autobiography also handles off-road conditions in the Range Rover tradition. It offers Terrain Response 2 with Auto mode for sand, mud, snow, and rock crawl; intelligent all-wheel drive plus torque vectoring by braking; wade sensing up to 31.5-inch fording depth, and AllTerrain Progress Control, which is cruise control for low-traction environments.
“All Land Rovers have the capability of performance in different types of weather,” Garate said. “This one is no different. You’ve got the safety aspects of it, but also the performance in an all-weather type of vehicle. It’ll get you around whether you’re on gravel, on snow, regular pavement, whatever, and do it safely.”
Wherever the destination lies, both driver and passengers can tune out the world for the duration thanks to a Meridian 3D sound system boasting 16 speakers and a dual channel subwoofer, all while luxuriating in extended Windsor leather appointments. Other option packages allow for even more customization, Garate said.
“The client can upgrade from the solid color in four different metallic colors, and then there’s also five premium metallic colors,” she explained. “Wheel options allow the client to upgrade from 21 to 22 inches. Inside, there are four different trims with the extended Windsor leather in two different finishes and four different options of interior color.”
Another upgrade caters to the busy executive on the go, allowing connectivity where it is needed most.
“All of our models do offer Wi-Fi enabled with a data plan for $400,” Garate said. “So, if you’re someone that is on the go and works a lot on the road or in your car, and there are many people who do that these days, you can upgrade that package, which is a real convenience for entrepreneurs and business owners and whatnot.”
Garate reported that consumers have been impressed by the vehicle in the showroom, especially couples and those with younger children. While not inexpensive—Range Rover lists starting price at just under $80,000—consumers see the Velar Autobiography as a good entry point to the utility class without sacrificing performance or style.
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For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com
“THE NEBRASKA BALLOON & WINE FESTIVAL HAS GROWN FROM MODEST BEGINNINGS INTO ONE OF THE METRO AREA’S SIGNATURE CELEBRATIONS, A GATHERING BUILT AROUND THE SPECTACLE OF HOT AIR BALLOONS RISING AGAINST THE HORIZON.” - NATALIE VELOSO
A TOAST TO THE SKIES
19th Annual Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival
Story by Natalie Veloso // Photography by Sarah Lemke
For nearly two decades, late summer in Nebraska carries a tradition unlike any other. The Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival has grown from modest beginnings into one of the metro area’s signature celebrations, a gathering built around the spectacle of hot air balloons rising against the horizon. Year after year, thousands spread their blankets and lawn chairs across Ta-HaZouka Park to watch the skies come alive, sip wines crafted from Nebraska soil and beyond, and share in a community event that has become a highlight of August.
The festival traces its roots to the early 2000s, when organizers envisioned an event that would pair the artistry of ballooning with the emerging wine culture of the state. At the time, Nebraska counted only a handful of wineries. Today, with nearly 25 vineyards producing award-winning vintages, the festival celebrates that growth. What began as a few balloons and a scattering of tents has transformed into an immersive twoday experience that attracts balloonists from across the Midwest, vintners from across the region, and families eager for something truly memorable.
The Wine
Wine has always been at the heart of the festival’s character, grounding it in the flavors of the region while drawing in acclaimed national labels. Over the years, visitors have discovered just how far Nebraska’s vintners have come, with James Arthur Vineyards, Glacial Till, Nissen Winery, Native 32, and Little Swan Lake among the favorites, poured this year alongside sponsor Clos du Bois, among others. More than 60 varieties now line the tasting tents each August, offering everything from crisp whites and full-bodied reds to surprising fruit blends unique to the Plains.
To go beyond the tasting glass, the Food & Wine Pairing Dinners elevate the experience into something more intimate. Friday evening at the 2025 event belonged to Carrabba’s Italian Grill, serving a three-course menu designed to complement carefully chosen wines. Saturday featured WineStyles, whose culinary team paired prime rib and seasonal dishes with curated selections. These dinners sell out each year, evidence of how the festival has become as much a culinary event as it is an entertainment spectacle. And for those who prefer beer to wine, a growing craft selection in the Beer Garden always ensures no guest feels left out.
The Music
While the wine keeps guests relaxed, the music keeps the festival alive. Each year, the lineup brings together local talent with regional touring acts to create a live soundtrack that drifts across the park from afternoon through the evening. Families lounge in lawn chairs while children dance barefoot in the grass, and the stage remains the major gathering point before it’s time to head closer to the balloon field.
In 2025, Friday night featured The Persuaders, one of Omaha’s most enduring party bands, who kept the crowd moving with a mix of classics spanning six decades. Saturday brought a double bill: the Red Delicious Band, warming up the crowd with a blend of rock and soul, and High Heel, whose powerhouse lead singer Lisa Larsen turned the evening into an interactive experience. The live performances kept the weekend moving, drawing all eyes toward the energy of the ONYXsponsored main stage.
FEATURE
The Balloons
Of course, nothing defines the Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival more than its balloons. They remain the true icons of the event, filling the horizon with color as they lift in mass ascents during the golden hour. Spectators arrive early to watch pilots unfurl their envelopes, fans pumping air as burners roar to life and the shapes slowly take form. The true pinnacle comes after sunset as the balloons begin to glow from within.
While the wine, music, and balloons capture the headlines, part of the festival’s enduring charm is its inclusivity. Families flock to the Methodist Physicians Clinic KidZone, where bounce houses, face painting, and even a mechanical bull keep children entertained for hours. Food trucks and vendors serve everything from Greek gyros and Thai noodles to smoky barbecue, wood-fired pizza, and strawberry funnel cakes, ensuring guests of all ages and tastes can find something to savor.
Pulling off an event of this scale each year requires partnership, and community sponsors have been essential in sustaining and elevating the experience. In 2025, ONYX Automotive took the lead as Title Sponsor, helping bring energy and accessibility to all corners of the festival. Their support contributed to the festival’s commitment to remain both expansive and affordable for attendees. Joined by partners such as Pinnacle Bank, Family Fare, Today’s Dental, and Coca-Cola, the sponsorship network reflects a shared investment in keeping the Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival a metroarea custom.
Each year, the Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival brings a growing crowd together. It’s the small moments—friends catching up over a glass of local wine, children gazing wide-eyed at the glow of the balloons, couples swaying to live music—that give the festival its staying power.
With the ongoing support of partners like ONYX, the tradition continues year after year, welcoming new faces while keeping its familiar setup. What remains a true constant is the sense of connection— neighbors, friends, and visitors all sharing in something uniquely Nebraskan.
For more information, visit showofficeonline.com/ NebraskaWineBalloon
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Made with CGI
FALL FOR APPLEJACK
A Perfect Weekend in Nebraska City
Story by Natalie Veloso
Photos provided by Kimmel Orchard & Vinyard
As the air gets crisper and roadside trees start showing off, there’s a brief and brilliant window when a road trip just feels right. For many Nebraskans, that window points south to Nebraska City’s orchard-lined streets. Just an hour’s drive from Omaha, the historic town transforms into the state’s unofficial fall capital each year, thanks in large part to its apple orchards, historic trails, and one very enthusiastic festival.
At the center of Nebraska City’s fall charm is the legendary AppleJack Festival, a delightfully over-the-top harvest celebration that draws tens of thousands annually. Now in its 57th year, it’s been named one of the best harvest festivals in the country by USA Today and HGTV, and with attendance topping 80,000, it’s far from a quiet local fair. Still, for all its popularity, the festival hasn’t lost its charm.
In 2025, the celebration happens over back-to-back weekends: Sept. 19–21 and Sept. 26–28.
Weekend one is classic AppleJack Americana. There’s a full carnival on Central Avenue, a Saturday morning downtown parade, and community events scattered across town. Early risers can sign up for the AppleJack Fun Run, then reward themselves with pancakes and sausage at the fire station’s morning feed. In the afternoon, there’s a time-honored water barrel fight and an evening bull riding tour out at Hidden Falls Cabins & RV Park Arena, complete with mutton bustin’ and live music.
Weekend two goes all in on celebrating apples. Visitors can participate in orchard tours while enjoying caramelcoated everything, cider slushies, and a “sip and stroll” hard cider experience for adults looking to shop with a drink in hand. There’s also professional wrestling, for those who prefer their fall festivals with a side of spectacle—and plenty of places to stock up on apple butter, pie, and other fall necessities.
ROAD TRIP
“AS THE
AIR GETS CRISPER
AND ROADSIDE TREES START SHOWING OFF, THERE’S A BRIEF AND BRILLIANT WINDOW WHEN A ROAD TRIP JUST FEELS RIGHT. FOR MANY NEBRASKANS, THAT WINDOW POINTS SOUTH TO NEBRASKA CITY’S ORCHARD-LINED STREETS.”
- NATALIE VELOSO
Events are spread across town, anchored by key locations like Arbor Day Farm, Kimmel Orchard, and the downtown district, making the atmosphere just chaotic enough to feel like fall’s version of a state fair.
Other Fall Must-Dos in Nebraska City
AppleJack is the marquee event, yet the rest of Nebraska City delivers an encore you won’t want to miss. Visitors will find plenty more to explore before or after the festival crowds roll through—this is orchard country, after all, and fall is when it shows off best.
Arbor Day Farm & Tree Adventure
One of the most scenic spots in town, Arbor Day Farm offers 260 acres of wooded trails, interactive exhibits, and a massive treehouse playground suspended among the canopy. The Apple House Market is worth a stop for fresh apples and their
signature apple cider—hot, cold, or slushified. For a slower pace, you can walk the grounds of the historic Arbor Lodge mansion at the edge of the property—a 19th-century time capsule surrounded by towering oaks. It’s also home to Lied Lodge, a cozy, timber-framed hotel with easy access to the fall festivities, making it the perfect weekend stay this time of year.
Kimmel Orchard & Vineyard
A few minutes up the road, Kimmel Orchard lets visitors pick apples straight from the trees, grab pumpkins, or hop on a tractor ride through the rows. Inside the gift shop, shelves are stacked with cider donuts, jams, slushies, and all the other fall standards, while the adjacent pavilion hosts food vendors, kids’ activities, and live music during AppleJack weekends. The on-site tasting room offers local wine pours, while the orchard itself is part of a larger agricultural education initiative run in partnership with the University of Nebraska.
Downtown Nebraska City
The historic downtown area rounds out the itinerary with boutique shopping and a number of cozy cafés and bakeries. During the first AppleJack weekend, Central Avenue fills with craft and flea market booths. On quieter weekends, it’s a good place to browse, grab a slice of pie, or dive into the town’s history. The Nebraska City Museum of Firefighting and the Mayhew Cabin, a preserved Underground Railroad site, offer context to the community’s past. A few wineries and relaxed lunch spots nearby make for a nice post-orchard wind-down.
AppleJack might be the reason you plan the trip, but this charming town makes it easy to stay a little longer—though any ONYX vehicle offers plenty of space for the weekend’s bounty and all the comfort you need to enjoy the ride home. One weekend here is all it takes to see why fall just feels bigger in Nebraska City, but there’s no rush to leave when the season’s this good.
For more information, visit nebraskacity.com/events/applejack
