Onyx Magazine - ISSUE 02 | Winter 2022

ISSUE 02 | WINTER 2022

DESIGNERS: KRIS PAT TON, ASID & MEL ANIE FULLER, ALLIED MEMBER ASID

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his new construction project posed a welcomed challenge – how do a team of interior designers meld their clients’ two very different visions for their brand-new dream home into one spectacular design?

Together, Kris Patton, ASID and Melanie Fuller, Allied Member ASID, with Interiors Joan and Associates and R & A Builders worked to create this very special space.

The luxurious feel was created using metallic gold tiles, clean finishes, glamourous touches and high contrast with black walls, black ceilings and crisp white floors. A black tile was used throughout the main floor to give the whole home contrast. The integration of warm woods, a warm natural stone used on the fireplace, and warm chestnut accents ground the home, giving it a livable, cozy feel.

He envisioned a high contrast, hotel/ lounge look for their new home, while she craved a cozy/homelike feel. With a young and growing family, they both knew that open spaces and the ability to see from all the living areas in the home were necessary elements.

Our clients’ courage to adhere to their own unique tastes and their willingness to trust our ability to bring those visions to life in a cohesive, livable way, allowed this stylish home to come to fruition.

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Vehicle shown: 2022 BMW X5. †Price shown is Manufacturer’s Base Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. Residency restrictions apply. *For complete details regarding ONYX Maintenance Program coverage, including the new vehicle limited warranty, please visit ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM, call 402.393.9700 or visit ONYX Automotive. © 2022 BMW of North America, LLC

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ISSUE 02 | WINTER 2022

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ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT NICK APPLETOFT

10

CLIENT SPOTLIGHT INGRID GEISEMAN

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RESTAURANT PACIFIC EATING HOUSE

14

ENTERTAINMENT CREIGHTON ATHLETIC DIRECTOR MARCUS BLOSSOM

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ROAD TRIP MOUNT CRESCENT

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FEATURE ONYX LAND ROVER TEAM MEMBERS PARTICIPATE IN TREK

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FEATURE 2022 RANGE ROVER

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CLIENT BENEFIT ONYX EXPRESS WASH CLUB

Publisher Todd Lemke

Managing Editor Daisy Hutzell-Rodman

Graphic Designer Derek Joy

Associate Publisher Bill Sitzmann

Ad Sales Gil Cohen gil@omahapublications.com

Accounting/ Operations Manager Kyle Fisher

Contributing Editor Tom Coleman, ONYX Published by Omaha Publications. Omaha Magazine, LTD. is a publishing company that prints six regular publications created in-house. In addition, they publish the annual Best of Omaha® and Best of B2B® contests, as well as Faces of Omaha and custom projects. Subscribe online at omahamagazine.com/pages/subscribe. Omahamagazine.com | 402.884.2000

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ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT

CONFIDENCE & CHARISMA Nick Appletoft is Dedicated to ONYX Story by Sara Locke // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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N

ick Appletoft, service manager for ONYX BMW and MINI of Omaha, has no interest in selling someone on a vehicle, a repair, or even on the city he calls home. His only interest is in sharing his extensive knowledge and letting the facts speak for themselves. That certainty in the brand he’s loyal to, the shop he’s proud of, and the city he’s managed to recruit top techs to, speaks volumes over any salesmanship the 36-year-old possesses.

That kind of confidence comes through extensive education, experience, and a career committed to luxury service.

Born in Sioux City, Iowa, Appletoft first discovered his affinity and aptitude for automotive in high school. “I had a very influential auto instructor, and I got really invested in learning everything I could. I attended Wyo Tech [Wyoming Technical Institute in Laramie, Wyoming] with a goal of getting into STEP [Service Technician Education Program], which is used to recruit the top talent from tech schools. After completing STEP, I started my career with BMW as a technician.”

Appletoft spent a year with BMW in Minnetonka, Minnesota, before investing the next decade of his career to a tech position in Des Moines, Iowa.

In 2016, Appletoft and his family relo-

“MANAGEMENT APPRECIATED MY DRIVE TO GET IN FRONT OF A PROBLEM, AND MY ABILITY TO INTERACT WITH CLIENTS AND PARTNERS, EVEN WHEN IT MEANT HAVING A HARD CONVERSATION.” NICK APPLETOFT

cated to Omaha when he was recruited

by ONYX Automotive, where his initiative and expertise quickly earned him a promotion to shop foreman. His wife Sara, an ER nurse at Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, was attracted to the schools available to the couple’s young daughter, and they were both drawn to the city by the light traffic in spite of the city’s many attractions. The factors that sealed the deal, however, were the state-of-the-art facility Appletoft would be working in and the ability to advance in his career.

“My first 11 years with BMW I worked as a tech, then within six months here at ONYX I was promoted to shop foreman before being advanced to service manager of BMW/MINI in 2021,” Appletoft said. “My bosses appreciated my drive to get in front of a problem, and my ability to interact with clients and partners, even when it meant having a hard conversation.”

Energized by his new role, Appletoft immediately set to work using his hardearned skill set to organize and repair the shop itself and the processes the shop uses to serve their clients.

“This was a four-year process, and the goal was to get things exactly where they are now,” Appletoft said. “Two years into our reorganization, we won Most Improved Service Department for the Nation from BMW. That was a big feather in our hat to get that, and we weren’t done finding ways to improve.

We were recognized at a national conference for BMW for that honor.”

Appletoft credits ONYX Automotive staff, including the owners, who were willing to go to any lengths to recruit and retain a staff that could bring the shop to new heights.

“We had a lot of pieces in the wrong place, and we ended up needing to bring in a lot of new talent to make this move,” Appletoft said. “We did a great deal of active recruiting nationwide. I reached out to techs I worked with in Des Moines, we even went so far as to fly an especially qualified candidate in from Africa to find the right fit. We contacted hundreds of techs, some via Facebook, and asked everyone in our network for the names of every tech they could think of, just trying to build this pool of talent to pull from.”

ONYX Automotive has become synonymous with luxury vehicle sales, and a luxury experience for customers and employees alike. In a time when attracting and retaining talented, skilled workers has become difficult, ONYX Automotive has successfully onboarded an entire team. Appletoft credits the support and dedication of the Omaha ONYX Automotive ownership for the success of their establishment and their team.

“WHEN I BRING IN A POTENTIAL RECRUIT FROM ANOTHER STATE AND I’M ABLE TO BRING THEM INTO THE AIRCONDITIONED SHOP FLOOR—SHOPS DON’T USUALLY INVEST IN THAT KIND OF A LUXURY.” NICK APPLETOFT “BMW/MINI is truly one of the best brands to work for from the front to the back,” Appletoft said. “ONYX goes a step beyond because it is locally owned, and that means there is a lot of freedom and flexibility to do what’s right for our team and our clients. When I bring in a potential recruit from another state and I’m able to bring them into the air-conditioned shop floor—shops don’t usually invest in that kind of a luxury. On a hot August day, to walk in and see our team hard at work and not breaking a sweat in a 70 degree shop, that tells you where our priorities are.”

While his focus remains steady on his work with ONYX Automotive, Appletoft has enjoyed spending the last five years exploring Omaha’s Old Market, and spending his down time with his wife and their 7-year-old daughter.

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CLIENT SPOTLIGHT

A VEHICLE THAT REFLECTS PERSONAL STYLE

Ingrid Geiseman Chooses Land Rover Story by Kara Schweiss // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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WHEN IT CAME TIME TO PURCHASE A NEW VEHICLE, GEISEMAN CONSIDERED MANY OF THE SAME FACTORS AS HER OWN CLIENTELE, FROM PRACTICAL TO AESTHETIC, WITH THE END GOAL BEING TO FIND A PLEASING STYLE AND PERFECT FIT.

A

s a haberdasher, or custom clothier, Ingrid Geiseman fits her clients for men’s and women’s custom apparel—including casual pieces, career wear such as dress shirts and fine suits, and even formalwear for special occasions such as evening gowns and tuxedos. When Geiseman purchased her 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport from ONYX Automotive in April 2021, she immediately noticed parallels between the dealership and her work for Tom James of Omaha.

“They are well-made products. They help us present ourselves in a manner that shows who we are,” she said. “Our clients wear fine clothing and drive luxury vehicles. There is definitely a correlation between ONYX Automotive’s clientele and my clientele; they’re people who expect some of the same experiences in life. They like VIP treatment.”

Custom clothing reflects personal style— considering fit, fabric, color, and other details—so as a custom clothier for nearly 19 years, Geiseman guides and assists her clients through every choice in building a wardrobe, which means she gets to know people extremely well in order to understand their backgrounds, who they interact with in their professional lives, their fashion preferences, and their existing wardrobe.

“Our clients rely on us to build and manage their wardrobe; we’re trusted advisers to them like they have advisers for other aspects of their lives,” she said, adding that her clients become “almost like family.”

That personal service includes working onsite, Geiseman said, which means a lot of travel in and around Omaha as well as to surrounding communities like Council Bluffs, Fremont, and Lincoln. “I visit them in their office or their home; it’s all about convenience.”

Reliable transportation is important to Geiseman in her work, she said, but so is image. When it came time to purchase a new vehicle, Geiseman considered many of the same factors as her own clientele, from practical to aesthetic, with the end goal being to find a pleasing style and perfect fit.

Sometimes there are surprises in the fashion and automotive sales industries.

Geiseman came to ONYX Automotive with the 2018 Land Rover Discovery Sport in mind, but pictured a neutral shade.

“I went into the dealership to look at a white one,” she said. Then, she saw her preferred make and model in crimson.

“It caught my eye,” she continued, noting that she is not a “red-car person.”

She’s been happy with her unexpected choice.

“I love the look of it. I get so many comments and compliments on the color and on the vehicle itself,” Geiseman said.

“It’s fun, yet professional. And I feel it shows my personality. I feel like it says I am somebody with good style and taste, and who is OK standing out. I know I said ‘fun’ already, but I feel like it’s a fun car and I feel like I’m a fun person.”

The Discovery Sport also has great safety features and practical advantages, Geiseman said.

“I like the room it offers. I feel it’s really roomy for a midsize SUV,” she said. “It’s very reliable and keeps me safe, and it’s also a good size for what I have to do; I carry a lot of things with me like fabric samples and clothing.”

As someone who travels to her clients, Geiseman said her vehicle functions as her office, in a sense.

“I need room for that. It’s where I spend the most time,” she explained. “It’s comfortable to be in but it still has a classy image.”

Geiseman’s Discovery Sport also serves her well outside of work, whether it’s visiting family in northeast Nebraska, taking a girlfriends’ trip to Okoboji, or driving her 14-year-old and 11-yearold children to various activities. “I’m a part-time Uber driver,” she joked.

A haberdasher knows all about topnotch service, Geiseman said, and she has nothing but rave reviews for ONYX Automotive’s sales department.

“I am extremely impressed with them. I think they are super-professional, very accommodating. You can tell they care about the people who walk in the door, and they have good attention to detail,” she said.

A luxury vehicle, like fine clothing, projects a certain something, Geiseman said, and she thinks the Land Rover brand is part of that.

Geiseman recently went back to ONYX Automotive after picking up a nail in one of her tires. It could have been a major inconvenience, but the service department was attentive to her needs and even offered a loaner vehicle.

“It’s important with my job that I take care of my appearance, and I think [the vehicle] shows a level of success and seriousness at the same time, that I’m a business professional,” she said.

“The whole process was a positive experience,” Geiseman said, adding that she felt as valued as she strives to make her own customers feel. “I like to be pampered every so often, too.”

“I LIKE THE ROOM IT OFFERS. I FEEL IT’S REALLY ROOMY FOR A MIDSIZE SUV.” INGRID GEISEMAN

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RESTAURANT

WEST COAST TO THE MIDWEST Pacific Eating House Story by Tara Spencer // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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T

he Pacific Northwest is as known for its seafood as Nebraska is for steak. Now, Omahans who crave that ocean fare don’t have to travel all the way to the coast—they can get impressive seafood dishes right off, fittingly, Pacific Street.

Owners Darrell and Laura Auld, who also own Twisted Cork Bistro at 105th and Pacific streets, moved to Omaha from Seattle, Washington. They brought with them their love of food. While that’s not limited to the sea, it was their fondness for all things Hawaiian that inspired their next venture, Pacific Eating House.

The couple opened Twisted Cork Bistro in Shaker Place in March 2008, and, almost exactly 12 years later, opened Pacific Eating House in Sterling Ridge.

Two weeks after opening, they had to shut down due to COVID-19. General manager Brittany Love, 31, said it was a huge disappointment after all the time and effort put into getting the space ready. “It had a dirt floor when we started,” she said. Fortunately, they were able to reopen in May 2020.

Despite the rocky start, their mission was clear from the beginning. All one has to do is read the menu, which states their intention to only purchase from farmers, ranchers, and fishmongers who share their commitment for wholesome, sustainable fare. It continues: “The way food is grown or raised is just as important as how it is prepared. Our recipes use the Earth’s bounty the way it is intended— wild and natural,” it continues.

At Pacific Eating House, diners can get a filet from Nebraska, cod from Alaska, mahi-mahi from Hawaii, and of course, coffee from Seattle.

The J.D.F. Tacos, named for the strait that runs between the U.S. and Canada, is a popular dish made with salmon from Washington. Other popular entrees include the Pier 38 Bowls, of which there are three options, and the Crying Tiger, which is made with flank steak.

Love said that while some of their food comes from the areas in the Pacific Ocean listed next to the menu items, that’s not necessarily true for everything. The Crying Tiger is inspired by Thai food, but the ingredients are more local. However, a lot of their items come from the areas of origin listed next to them, such as the Big Eye Ahi dish from Honolulu, Hawaii.

“WHEN I PLACE AN ORDER, FROM THE TIME IT’S CAUGHT TO THE TIME IT’S IN MY HANDS, IT’S 48 HOURS.” BRITTANY LOVE “When I place an order, from the time it’s caught to the time it’s in my hands, it’s 48 hours,” she said. “It’s never frozen.”

Ingredients that aren’t sourced from the coastal regions come from local purveyors such as Jon’s Naturals, Plum Creek Farms, Dutch Girl Creamery, Le Quartier Bakery, Piedmontese Lincoln, and others.

Love said their menu changes every six to eight weeks. “[It’s] not the full menu, but we offer different seasonal options.”

Chef Patrick McCracken also frequently creates unique specials. “He just has such a passion for cooking,” Love said.

That drive to provide interesting, flavorful items is carried over to the drink menu. For those who enjoy a glass of wine with their meal, the menu is conveniently divided into crisp whites, with reds further subdivided by state and Oregon pinot noir in its own category. The beer list also covers the map, from Alaska to La Vista to Mexico, and their cocktails feature fresh, seasonal ingredients.

During the holiday season, Love said bar manager Ryan Ellison tried making his own eggnog and infusing bourbon with vanilla bean.

“HE’S A MAD SCIENTIST. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT HE’LL COME UP WITH.” BRITTANY LOVE

The decor invokes beachy visions, with natural-looking wood and tile finishes, block glass, and lots of blue—from the plates to the walls to the lighting— carried throughout. Fish and other sea creatures are also represented in the artwork, and the natural light from the large windows adds to the coastal atmosphere.

“It is inspired by everything that touches the Pacific Ocean,” Love said. There’s also a rather large patio offering additional seating during nice weather. At night, it is bathed in beautiful blue lighting, bringing that ocean vibe outside.

A perfect meal for Love would include the pistachio-crusted sashimi, which is made with seared ahi tuna. The entree was a little more difficult to decide on, but she settled on the Bibimbap Bowl with salmon and shrimp rather than the flank steak. “It’s the housemade kimchi that we use,” she said. “[It has] carrots in it, that gives it a sweet aspect. In addition to that, there’s the sunny-side up egg that cooks in with the meal once broken and mixed into the stone bowl the dish is served in. “It’s like a flavor explosion,” Love said.

Last but not least is dessert. Laura is the pastry chef as well as owner, and loves trying new flavors, such as a cheesecake made with tart apples, graham cracker crust, and a ginger, craisin, and walnut crumble topping that Love couldn’t get enough of. “I’m obsessed with our seasonal cheesecake,” she said.

No matter what the season, though, diners are sure to find a dish that calls to them like a siren’s song of the sea.

The restaurant is closed Sundays and Mondays. The kitchen is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Happy hour runs from 2-5 p.m. and includes specials for beer, wine, cocktails, and food.

Visit pacific-eatinghouse.com for more information.

“He’s a mad scientist. I have no idea what he’ll come up with.” She added that all of their cocktails are tiki-inspired. “We try to make sure we have things that other people don’t.”

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ENTERTAINMENT

RIGHT MAN, RIGHT TIME

A Blossoming Future for Creighton Athletics Story by Joel Stevens // Photography Provided

“IT’S JUST A GREAT ACADEMIC INSTITUTION ROOTED IN JESUIT VALUES AND A TRADITION OF DEVELOPING THE WHOLE STUDENT—ACADEMICALLY, SOCIALLY, LEADERSHIP-[WISE], AND SPIRITUALLY IF YOU CHOOSE THAT. OBVIOUSLY COMPETING IN THE BIG EAST CONFERENCE AND PLAYING BASKETBALL AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL WAS VERY, VERY ATTRACTIVE TO ME.”

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MARCUS BLOSSOM

M

arcus Blossom can still recall the exact moment his career path detoured.

It was 2004, Blossom was 25, working in corporate accounting in his hometown of Chicago. The pay was good and business was booming—but he wasn’t fulfilled.

So, he sought guidance from a former staffer at his alma mater, Northeastern University in Boston, where Blossom starred for the Husky basketball team from 1997 to 2021.

“It always looked like you enjoyed your job when I was a student-athlete,” Blossom recalled saying. “How do you get into this business? I’m just not finding joy in my everyday 9 to 5.”

Four weeks later Blossom packed his car and headed to West Virginia and a graduate program in sports management.

His professional journey has taken him through two stints at the NCAA office, and included stops at Central Michigan in Mount Pleasant, Michigan; Brown University and Providence College in Providence, Rhode Island; Boston College; and College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. Now, Blossom is Creighton University’s 14th Director of Athletics.

Blossom headed the Holy Cross athletic department for two years before Creighton came calling. The Bluejays, he said, checked all his personal and professional boxes.

“It’s just a great academic institution rooted in Jesuit values and a tradition of developing the whole student— academically, socially, leadership[wise], and spiritually if you choose that,” he said. “Obviously competing in the Big East Conference and playing basketball at the highest level was very, very attractive to me.”

Blossom was hired following a comprehensive national search for a successor to Bruce Rasmussen, Creighton’s longtime, celebrated athletic director.

“Ras,” as he’s been known for his nearly three decades in the A.D. chair, retired in August.

Leaving Holy Cross and Worcester for Omaha wasn’t easy—Blossom called it a “hard, easy decision”—and replacing Ras was a challenging prospect. The expectations, however, are what sold him.

“That’s what made the job attractive too,” he said. “There’s potential to win at a high level. Ras did a good job of

hiring good coaches and raising money to build some really good facilities. You take the challenge, that some might call daunting, and you’d rather have that than a place that’s not in a position to be successful.”

At Creighton, Blossom has that.

The Bluejays are consistently among the top of the Big East Conference in multiple sports. The men’s basketball team is coming off a Sweet 16 season. The volleyball team is a perennial power. The men’s soccer team reached the NCAA tournament. Baseball and women’s soccer each are consistent conference contenders.

Reaching that level, staying there, and exceeding it are all different—but not entirely separate—things. Among his many jobs is looking at what contributed to that success and “bottling it up” for the school’s dozen sports programs.

“You see what you did to get there and do it better and figure out what gets us to the next step,” he said. “Then you have the teams that haven’t been achieving that and you try to build them up at the same time.”

At his introduction in September, Blossom’s natural charm was on full display as he communicated those micro issues as clearly as the macro when it comes to student-athletes navigating both the NCAA and campus life.

His curriculum vitae and personality seem lab-made for the delicate CFOmeets-CEO juggling of Creighton athletic director. He’s a Chicago-area native. A former walk-on guard who went on to earn all-conference honors and a finance degree. He added a master’s in sports management and then an MBA. He’s a ground-floor grinder who worked his way up the athletic administration ladder to the big chair before his 40th birthday.

“WHEN I’M ASSESSING A STAFF MEMBER, OR THEY COME TO ME WITH A CERTAIN ISSUE, I’VE KIND OF LIVED IT IN SOME ASPECTS.” MARCUS BLOSSOM “When I’m assessing a staff member, or they come to me with a certain issue, I’ve kind of lived it in some aspects,” he said. “It’s changed over time, I’m sure, but I at least know a baseline of what they’re going through and how I think

we can help their area be successful.”

A self-described “competitive and physical” guard at Northeastern who still ranks among the school’s top 12 scorers, he admits that competitive drive didn’t end when he hung up his high tops.

“This is a competitive business,” he said.

“We’re held to wins and loss standards in a variety of…ways. Whether its wins and losses or whether it’s revenue. There’s a ton of different things. Playing a Division I sport contributes your desire to win in that respect.”

Blossom arrived at Creighton at a unique juncture. Always a dynamic position, today’s athletic director is tasked with meeting the demands of bottom lines and their many “constituents,” as he calls them, on and off campus. He’s spent much of his first two months on the job getting to know the programs and coaches he oversees. He feels like he has a good grasp but never stops listening. He already has some ideas for facilities improvements and plans for navigating the complex NCAA Name Image Likeness (NIL) and postCOVID-19 landscape.

“What’s been successful at Creighton over the last 10 years may or may not be the recipe for success over the next 10 years,” he said. “What we’re doing now is assessing what’s going to make us successful in the future.”

Blossom is clearly a big part of that future at Creighton. He’s seen more of the campus than Omaha so far but he can sense the community connection and the mutual investment. His wife Karli and two daughters, Maya and Mora, remained in Worcester, Massachusetts, through the fall term. They plan to move to Omaha soon.

As the first person of color to lead the athletic department in Creighton University’s 148 years, Blossom knows he has a lot of eyes on him. Nationally, just 15% of all Division I athletic directors are African American. It’s no secret there’s a lack of diversity in athletic administration. He doesn’t consider himself a trailblazer nor does he give it much thought in how he goes about his job.

“That comes with the territory,” he said. “I don’t pay any attention to it. I come in and try to be the best I can be. I know I’m going to be judged on whether I do a good job or not.”

Visit creighton.edu for more information.

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ROAD TRIP

MOUNTAINWORTHY SKIING

Mount Crescent Offers Colorado-style Fun Story by Kara Schweiss // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

S

kiing and snowboarding are two of the best activities winter has to offer, and it’s not necessary to embark on an eight-plus-hour trip to Colorado to enjoy them, said Chris Andrew, operations manager for Mount Crescent Ski Area near Honey Creek, Iowa.

“We’re located 15 minutes from downtown Omaha,” Andrew said, explaining that with its 361-foot vertical drop and ski runs that reach up to 2,400 feet in length, Mount Crescent is challenging enough for experienced skiers, but also newcomer-friendly.

“We have excellent beginner terrain and we have many instructors on staff who can take somebody from being a ‘never-ever’ to being successfully able to go down the hill on their own,” he said.

Mount Crescent Ski Area, which opened in 1961, is located in the steeply ridged bluffs of Iowa’s Loess Hills. Two-person and four-person chairlifts can transport

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3,600 skiers up the slopes every hour to skiing and snowboarding trails, but there’s plenty to do during downtime. Visitors can enjoy amenities like outdoor fire pits and a 7,000-square-foot, Swiss-style ski lodge plus a selection of food and beverages available at the Mountain Cafe & Bar. “Everyone loves hanging out at the fire pits outside; you can enjoy hot chocolate and [other] drinks around the fire,” Andrew said.

“Or you can hang out inside the lodge.”

A day trip to Mount Crescent takes minimal planning. Experienced skiers and snowboarders are welcome to bring their own equipment, Andrew said. Everyone should arrive dressed for the cold.

“They need to bring their own outerwear: base layers, snow pants, snow jackets, gloves and hats,” he said. “We have the ski boots and skis, and if you’re snowboarding we have the snowboard boots and snowboards. Our rental shop has all shapes and sizes.”

All shapes and sizes means all ages are welcome.

“There is a very wide range,” Andrew said.

“Our bread-and-butter is definitely families, but every other Friday night we have Midnight Madness from 8 p.m. to midnight [with lighted runs], and that brings in a younger crowd, couples and college kids… and there’s sledding on weekends.”

Novice skiers and snowboarders can sign up for individual or group lessons. The lodge can be rented for special events, and discounted pricing is available for corporate, youth, and other group outings.

“Through our website, we have a group inquiry form. One of our team members will call and follow up,” Andrew said, adding that activities can be customized. “They will build a plan. And our weekday group rates are awesome; they’re perfect for corporate events. You’ll have the hill mostly to yourself.”

“THIS IS A GOOD WAY TO FIND OUT IF YOUR KIDS ARE INTERESTED IN THIS. WE HAVE THE TERRAIN TO GET THAT EXPERIENCE UNDER THEIR BELT.” CHRIS ANDREW

Andrew said he recommends Mount Crescent for families with children as young as 4 years old; not only is the atmosphere warm and friendly, but parents can also enroll their offspring in lessons for kids.

“It really is a great place to learn if you’ve never done this before,” Andrew said. “It’s fun and inviting.”

Taking skiing lessons at Mount Crescent is also an affordable way for parents who are experienced skiers to prepare their children for a family destination trip to a major ski resort.

“This is a good way to find out if your kids are interested in this,” Andrew said. “We have the terrain to get that experience under their belt.”

Andrew said his now-21-year-old son started skiing and snowboarding at Mount Crescent years ago, which readied him for later excursions with his father to Colorado ski country. Andrew could then hit the

expert-level trails rather than be “stuck on a bunny slope,” he said, “And I don’t have to worry about my son.”

Opening day at Mount Crescent Ski Area varies depending on weather, but snow machines ensure an extended season.

“We do our own snowmaking, so we try to open a couple of weeks before Christmas,” Andrew said. “Once we get open we do our best to stay open until March, and even into March.”

Frequent visitors with their own equipment typically invest in a rooftop ski rack, but any vehicle from ONYX Automotive, even without modifications, can be used for an excursion to Mount Crescent.

“If you take [Interstate] 680 across the Mormon bridge and into Crescent and Old Lincoln Highway, it’s almost always plowed and it’s plowed fairly well. Then there’s a county road that goes the rest of the way to the ski area and we plow our drive and

parking lots,” said Andrew, who drives a mid-size car. “Because I’m out here so often in the winter and I’m sometimes here overnight, I’ve invested in snow tires.”

With or without snow tires, even when the snow is falling heavily, “I’ve never had an issue,” he added.

Andrew said off-season activities like mud runs were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, but he’s optimistic they will return. The bright side is that the time off allowed the staff to make some needed upgrades on the hill, ensuring a robust 2021-2022 season no matter what the weather.

“There have often been times where it’s 50 degrees at the end of February and people are skiing,” Andrew said. “It’s a great time.

Visit skicrescent.com for more information.

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FEATURE - TREK

ADVENTURING BETTER TOGETHER ONYX Team Members Create Memories on Trek Story by Daisy Hutzell-Rodman // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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hen a vehicle company reboots a legendary competition that combines elements of “Survivor” with company team building and a bit of fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Land Rover employees get the time of their lives.

Three employees of ONYX Land Rover in Omaha recently found this out.

Land Rover enthusiasts will remember (and perhaps have fond memories of) the Camel Trophy, a competition for 4 x 4s that ran from 1980-2000 and gained such popularity that, in 1989, more than 1 million amateur drivers applied for one of 28 spots in the 1,300-mile-competition through the Amazon basin. These special Land Rovers still command a high price—in 2018 a Camel Trophy Land Rover Discovery 200TDI came up for sale with a price tag of $59,000.

The latest Land Rover venture is known as is Trek. It was established in 1996, and is a competition designed to challenge and educate Land Rover retailer employees from the U.S. and Canada. In order to become part of the Trek, employees need to be in good standing with the brand and show commitment to their job along with a dedication to teamwork. They also need to be physically fit, as the trek is a demanding experience.

In 2021, Land Rover chose ONYX Automotive to be a part of this experience. In September, ONYX Automotive invested $11,000 plus the cost of a Defender 110 ($90,000) to send Sales Manager Michael Igwenma, Service Manager Joshua Stahr, and Technician Will Heimann to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. The competition rules state that the three team members be from different departments, including sales and tech.

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Once ONYX Automotive was chosen to send a team, Land Rover sent a blank white flag to the dealership. This was to be the flag that represented the team’s district and their culture. Many of the 70 teams decided to screenprint their flags, but ONYX Automotive took a different approach, hand-painting their flag. The image included the skyline of Omaha on one side, with Chimney Rock on the other and a throne in the middle.

The trio traveled by plane to North Carolina on Sept. 19, with physically fit Igwenma and off-roading enthusiast Heimann meeting at the airport. Although they both work for Land Rover, they don’t work together much, and the two were able to spend time learning about each other and their families. As the teams gathered that day, they were given their camping gear, which included a single-person tent, inflatable mattress, and a Trek-branded blanket for each participant; a GPS unit; and a compass. That night, Land Rover hosted a briefing dinner at which the participants learned more about their options for the obstacles and the course, and instructors for Land Rover were available for the teams to ask questions. They also had time to gather with teams from other areas, which proved important the next day. Stahr knew a technician who had come to Omaha from the Denver store and used that as an icebreaker to make friends with the trio from Denver.

The Camel Trophy included lots of driving, and 10 special tasks designed to test teamwork, driving skills, and endurance. The Land Rover Trek was less driving, but includes 15 total challenges—and the first challenge happened the night of Sept. 19. The trio presented their team flag at a ceremony, explaining why it represented them. The Omaha flag was painted to represent the team leaving their “castle” to visit a new land. ›››

“THAT TERRAIN WAS SLOPPY-WET. IT WAS COOL TO SEE WHAT THAT VEHICLE COULD DO.” JOSHUA STAHR

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INTRODUCING THE LAND ROVER DEFENDER

OMAHA

CUSTOMIZE YOURS STARTING AT: $73,345* Everything about the Land Rover Defender bears testimony to the vehicle’s undeniable spirit of adventure. Individually customize your off-road system preferences and explore your way with Configurable Terrain Response®.† And whether you’re in the middle of the concrete jungle or the middle of nowhere, use the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system‡ to stay connected. So, whether you’re rock crawling in Moab or cruising West Dodge, the Land Rover Defender is ready for anything.

ONYX Automotive 14800 Branch St Omaha, NE 68154 ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM

Vehicle shown: 2021 Land Rover Defender. †Price shown is Manufacturer’s Base Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment.

Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. Residency restrictions apply. *For complete details regarding ONYX Maintenance Program coverage, including the new vehicle limited warranty, please visit ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM, call 402.393.9700 or visit ONYX Automotive. © 2022 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

THE 2022 RANGE ROVER

OMAHA

ORDER YOURS STARTING IN JANUARY

CONNECTIVITY & ENTERTAINMENT AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL From the steering wheel’s hidden-until-lit, touch-sensitive switches to Touch Pro™ Duo’s beautifully integrated 10” touchscreens, the Range Rover contains a selection of technologies designed to deliver a refined, connected drive.

CUSTOMIZE YOURS STARTING AT: $93,800† ONYX Automotive 14800 Branch St Omaha, NE 68154 ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM Vehicle shown: 2022 Range Rover. †Price shown is Manufacturer’s Base Retail Price. Excludes destination/handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. Residency restrictions apply. *For complete details regarding ONYX Maintenance Program coverage, including the new vehicle limited warranty, please visit ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM, call 402.393.9700 or visit ONYX Automotive. © 2022 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC

‹‹‹ Following time around a campfire, the Omaha trio retired to their tents, as they knew their day would start early.

Around sunrise, each of the 70 teams used GPS coordinates they received to hike up a mountain 2 1/2 miles and find their vehicles. The 2022 Land Rover Trek Defender came fully loaded with an exterior pack, headlight power wash, electronic active differential with torque vectoring by braking, and breakfast.

“There were breakfast sandwiches wrapped in tin foil under the hood,” said Heimann, who was designated as the navigator. He has often traveled to Colorado and western Nebraska to offroad with his wife and his brothers.

The Land Rover Omaha team spent the next eight hours navigating obstacles in drizzly, muddy conditions. They participated in a timed obstacle in which they removed and replaced a tire. They navigated a rat trap obstacle in which they performed what Igwenma called a “180” around a bunch of pilings that the vehicle could not touch.

“That was the one we spent the most time trying to navigate,” Igwenma said.

Another fun obstacle was one in which the team needed to move puzzle pieces together to form a pyramid.

The obstacle required the team members to assemble puzzle pieces into three parts of a pyramid. They then moved these parts, using a pulley system and two vechicles in drive and reverse modes to settle the blocks on top of one another. The Omaha team involved their new-found friends from Denver to finish this task.

The team fondly remembers an obstacle called “Punch Your Ticket,” for a few reasons.

“I had the most drive time in this,” Stahr said. “That terrain was sloppy-wet. It was cool to see what that vehicle could do.”

Heimann said his favorite part of the experience was being able to put their heads together to problem-solve, and this Punch Your Ticket obstacle was proof of that fun. Stahr said he they thought they were the only team to hop out of the car and try to problemsolve this obstacle, and in the end, the team had Stahr reverse up the obstacle in order to make it over the slick, muddy road.

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Add to that the fact that Heimann had been in the hospital having his appendix removed nine days prior. “The doctor said as long as I could handle the pain, I’d be fine.” He navigated through the bumps and craters in the off-road terrain with nothing more than Tylenol for help.

Then there was the detective work.

One of the team’s other favorite obstacles included using GPS to find words hidden in the trees. Those words were “fuse,” “brake,” and “switch.” To achieve the goal of the obstacle, Stahr read through the manual, Heimann grabbed a flashlight and began looking for part numbers, and Igwenma thought through the clues and began looking for the fuse boxes. Together, they found the part number for the fuse that solved the riddle.

At 2 p.m., the competition was finished, and the event ended with a ceremony at which the team learned their standing in the race.

“We figured we’d be in eighth or ninth place,” Stahr said. The trio was savvy to the fact that this was their first time at the event, and several other teams in their wave of 10 had attended before.

Stahr continued, “We got to the top five, and they had not announced our name, and we were pretty happy.”

In the end, Land Rover Omaha ended in fourth place. Better yet, they ended five points away from third place, and seven points away from second place. On Sept. 21, the team flew home to Omaha.

They could have driven their unique Defender, now available at ONYX Automotive for $105,000, but they opted to have it shipped.

While one appeal for winning was the chance to advance to the next Trek challenge, and then, potentially become the representation for Land Rover U.S. in England, general manager Scott Sutton said the important part was the team spirit and enthusiasm for the brand that the competition instilled in his employees.

Besides, Sutton continued, “There’s nothing more Land Rover than this.”

Visit onyxautomotive.com/new-vehicles/ land-rover for more information.

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FEATURE - LAND ROVER

2022 RANGE ROVER Custom Luxury

Story by Sara Locke // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ife moves fast, but in the new 2022 Range Rover by Land Rover, people are not just along for the ride. The driver’s seat boasts a commanding luxury position with a completely redesigned and fully loaded interior. At first glance, buyers will notice the sophistication of the minimalist design, but upon further inspection, it’s the attention to detail that will floor them. The purchasing adventure includes a variety of paints; personalized interior details; and completely customizable comfort, tech, and performance options.

Buyers can select from short or long wheel bases and between four and seven available seats. On the interior, one can choose from five colors of graded low-dye leather, which uses fewer chemicals to manufacture.

Other interior options include recycled materials such as Kvadrat™ Premium and Ultrafabrics™ luxury textiles, which are as soft and sophisticated as they are sustainable. Controls are ceramic, and as smooth as the ride itself, and touch-screen options put everything from music to mapping at the driver’s fingertips.

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LOCKED AND (FULLY) LOADED

“EVERY UPDATE WILL BE AN IMPROVEMENT, BUT THIS WAS A COMPLETE REDESIGN.” SCOTT SUTTON

With sleek lines and a restrained design, this fifth-generation offering is a groundbreaking feat of aerodynamic engineering, without ever allowing opulence to take a back seat. The aesthetic is crisp, and this luxury SUV never crosses the line into stiff, bringing distinction without rigidity.

Enhanced functionality and intuitive design mean even the features customers didn’t individualize for their vehicle feel like they were tailored to them. Fully reclining seats and molded arm rests create the most comfortable passenger experience yet. Each ride is as unique as its destination, with all-wheel drive standard and an optional front wheel drive that disconnects to improve mileage—drivers are given complete command of every aspect of their drive.

Optional third row seating is only available in the North American edition of the new Range Rover, and it allows drivers to bring even more to the party. A rear-passenger 11.4 inch touch screen mounted on the front passenger seat backs, and a Pivi Pro™ Infotainment system that features a curved 13.1-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback, ensure that even those without the privilege of driving are guaranteed the best seat in the house. The floating screen with a smartphoneinspired interface is intuitive and easy to use, while maintaining the high-tech futuristic esthetic of the rest of the interior. A club table, cup holders, and illuminated console fridge door are deployed electrically, and can be operated from the rear seat touch screen controller.

Active Noise Cancellation technology delivers a quieter cabin, while head rest speakers create quiet zones for other occupants. Everyone’s favorite passenger is sure to be Amazon Alexa, who relies on voice commands to manage incabin entertainment, temperature controls, music, and hands-free phone features. ›››

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NEW AND IN ALL WAYS IMPROVED

OPTIONAL THIRD ROW SEATING IS ONLY AVAILABLE IN THE NORTH AMERICAN EDITION OF THE NEW RANGE ROVER.

‹‹‹ Range Rover hasn’t released a new generation since 2012, and that time has been well-spent, creating what Autoexpress UK calls “A masterpiece of design.” The subtle extravagance of the latest release is striking a chord in North America.

The initial international launch of the latest incarnation of the Range Rover took place in London on Oct. 26, 2021, and Omaha drivers immediately took notice. While the vehicle won’t be available locally until spring, Jaguar Land Rover of Omaha has already received calls and orders from more than 100 current Range Rover customers inquiring about customizing one of their own.

Scott Sutton, general manager of ONYX Jaguar Land Rover of Omaha had the privilege of attending the Range Rover Leadership Summit, where the new Ranger Rover made its North American debut in Los Angeles on Nov. 15.

The event featured a performance by Wyclef Jean, an appearance by World Cup Alpine ski racer Lindsey Vonn, and several keynote speakers from the industry, but the real star of the event was the New Range Rover, which stole the show with its understated design and luxury upgrades and options.

Sutton called the new vehicle “breathtaking,” giving his thesaurus a workout trying to find new ways to describe the streamlined, fully loaded vehicle. “It’s an amazing improvement over the current model.” Sutton said. “Every update will be an improvement, but this was a complete redesign. It has been an incredible vehicle for more than 50 years, but the thoughtfulness and innovation are something you abso-

lutely have to see to appreciate.” And he understands how lucky he was to have the opportunity to climb behind the wheel for a driver’s-eye view and hands-on experience.

He’s even more excited to bring the opportunity to Omaha drivers, and to help them create their own custom driving experience in the coming months. ONYX Jaguar Land Rover of Omaha is working feverishly to ensure that they get their hands on as many of the exclusive new model as possible for their excited client base. While every industry is facing stalls in production, priority is being placed on ensuring that Omaha customers get the full luxury experience as soon as possible.

The New Range Rover comes with the most advanced engine ever offered, the new 523 HP V8 Twin Turbocharged gasoline engine. As the company continues to move into a greener and more sustainable future, their newest Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain will be available in 2023, and a fully electric Range Rover is expected in 2024. Electric models will combine an inline six Ingenium gas engine, with a 3.0 liter displacement and 105-kilowatt electric motor with 31.8 KWH lithium ion battery pack. When using the fully electric mode, a single charge will take drivers up to 62 miles.

While the newest incarnation of the classic SUV calls itself modern, it feels more like a step into a cleaner, sleeker, more beautiful future where exclusivity and sustainability can coexist in one fully equipped, nothing-negotiated ride.

Visit onyxautomotive.com/new-vehicles/ land-rover for more information.

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CLIENT BENEFIT

ONYX EXPRESS WASH CLUB

ONYX Automotive Customers Enjoy Luxury Service Story by Terry Jensen // Photography by Bill Sitzmann

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ucked discretely in the northeast corner of the ONYX Automotive complex is something unexpected—an exclusive, membersonly car wash. Completed in 2020, the ONYX Express Wash is one more way purchasers of ONYX Automotive’s four luxury brands are invited to experience exceptional customer care. An initial one-year membership is complimentary with the purchase of a new vehicle.

In addition to the complimentary basic wash, the ONYX Gloss package is loaded with premium features, from

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tire gloss and hot wax to rainbow coat finish protection. After the first year, membership is $25 monthly. Members can extend their plan to include other vehicles from the same household by paying an additional membership fee for each subsequent vehicle.

Regardless of the make of luxury vehicle, maintaining and protecting that investment is pivotal. By offering convenient access to a premium wash experience, ONYX Automotive is fulfilling that need by meeting it head-on. ONYX Car Wash Supervisor Forrest Raznick explained

that different cars have different care needs. The ONYX Wash is designed and formulated to ensure the best paint protection on all vehicles.

What makes the ONYX Express Wash Club exceptional is that clients get more for their money. While prices are affordable, the quality surpasses most, if not all, of the commercial car washes in town. Because ONYX Express Wash is not open to the general public, wait times are typically much shorter. Raznick also makes sure that each experience exceeds expectations. “Nobody waits

“THERE’S EVEN TIMES WHEN CUSTOMERS FEEL CLAUSTROPHOBIC AND I’LL LITERALLY WALK WITH THEIR CAR THE WHOLE WAY THROUGH THE CAR WASH JUST SO THEY CAN SEE ME AND KNOW THAT THINGS ARE OK.” FORREST RAZNICK

longer than two or three minutes for a car wash, and that’s if we’re busy. We move pretty quick,” Raznick explained. “I make sure that it’s A-1 every single day,” Even the car wash itself is thoroughly cleaned on a daily basis. An immaculate facility does a better job of protecting vehicle finishes and leaving cars remarkably clean.

detail for about a year and a half, I was at the time the only detailer besides the manager and the ceramic guy that was in there, I guess they saw with my work ethic, how hard I worked.” A little over a year ago, he was promoted to management of the car wash, and Raznick hasn’t looked back. ›››

Raznick began his career as a detailer with ONYX Automotive. He believes Service Director Rob Ramsey saw potential and chose him to manage the car wash.

Raznick recalled, “Formerly I was in

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‹‹‹ He’s proud of his crew. “I hired my entire team, developed all of them, and their skills. We have a really good process over there. A good team,” Raznick explained.

Their connection with customers builds loyalty for the dealership as well. “I’ve trained my team, even the ones that have been a little timid at first to kind of break out of that shell, kind of give them a little more confidence and to kind of build those relationships,” Raznick said. Some customers visit the car wash daily. More than a few have developed friendships over time, occasionally even bringing doughnuts or other treats to share with the workers. One weekly customer has, over time, given each staff member a $2 bill to keep for luck. Such relationships make the ONYX Express Wash experience unique.

This personal attention and dedication to extraordinary customer service is making a difference. The popularity of the ONYX Express Wash Club continues to grow. Since early 2020, they have nearly tripled the number of customers partaking of this exceptional car wash experience.

Memberships are building every month. “October was a record month in the entire history of the car wash, it’s booming now,” Raznick explained.

Winter weather means vehicles require more frequent cleaning, so a subscription plan will save owners money while protecting their investment over time.

Conveniently located on the ONYX dealership at 14800 Davenport St., the ONYX Express Wash is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Vacuums are provided for the convenience of vehicle owners.

Visit onyxwash.com to view current status updates or call 402-393-9700 to talk to a wash attendant.

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14800 BRANCH ST, OMAHA, NE 68154 ONYXAUTOMOTIVE.COM