“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
“WHEN
SOMEONE FIRST WALKS IN THE DOOR, MY ULTIMATE GOAL IS TO MAKE SURE THEIR OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE IS TOP-NOTCH.”
- MARK DEEGAN
Mark Deegan’s Commitment to The ONYX Experience
Story by Claudia Moomey // Photography by Sarah Lemke
A PUTTING DREAMS IN DRIVEWAYS
s a client adviser at ONYX BMW for five-and-a-half years, Mark Deegan knows that customer service is paramount. Whether a returning or first-time buyer, ONYX clients are always taken care of by this stellar client adviser.
“I see it as kind of putting a puzzle together,” Deegan said of his role at ONYX BMW. “Everybody who walks through the door needs something, whether that’s getting a new vehicle or something with their current vehicle—it’s figuring out what works for each client.” With a background in retail and plenty of experience, Deegan is well-equipped to attend to each customer’s individual needs. “When someone first walks in the door, my ultimate goal is to make sure their ownership experience is top-notch.”
Deegan continues to accomplish that goal each time he helps a client; with numerous five-star ratings and glowing reviews on ONYX’s website, he truly cares about the satisfaction of his clientele throughout the lives of their vehicles. “Whether they have a lifestyle change and need a bigger car, or want something to take out for the weekend for fun, I can find something that fits their needs and lifestyle,” Deegan said.
His personal “weekend warrior” car is a BMW M4. “I like driving and going on cruises,” he said, “and I’m very familyoriented. When you work a lot, you only have limited free time, and for me it’s important to spend that time with my family.”
Deegan thrives on all the feedback he receives. “The delivery and customers’ feedback with the brand are my favorite part of the job,” he said. “When they pick up their car, that’s the coolest mo-
ment. You really get to see how much joy it brings them—‘putting dreams in driveways,’ I always say. Finding the right vehicle and the delivery process is so cool, and the follow-up with the customer on their ownership experience beyond the sale is always a good refresher on how much they like the car.”
What’s his secret? Deegan ties it all to knowledge. “You not only have to be very knowledgable about the product, but you also have to have the understanding of what the customer is looking for,” he explained. His growth within the company has aided his accumulation of knowledge, which he describes as invaluable.
“Over the last five years, I’ve gotten the opportunity to go look at BMW locations. I’ve gone to South Carolina, where 90% of our SUVs are produced,” he said. “I got to see firsthand the engineering that goes into these vehicles and what they can do both in a street setting and on a track.” This, he said, along with being readily available to customers for whatever they need, builds a solid foundation for the perfect car-buying experience.
“At first, I never saw myself in car sales,” Deegan admitted, “just because of the stigma that goes with it…I wanted to be different. Being part of the ONYX brand has been amazing, and I’m not going anywhere.”
Deegan’s true passion for helping others shines in his role at ONYX, and, as his customers can attest, makes the car-buying process not only easy, but enjoyable.
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
YES MAN
John Wanninger Never Turns Down an Adventure
Story by Sara Locke // Photography by Sarah Lemke
Over the last four decades, father, friend, and founder of Venture Out Business Brokers John Wanninger has made it a habit and a passion to pursue every opportunity that speaks to his entrepreneurial spirit. The road Wanninger built from farm-kid in Coon Rapids, Iowa, to serial entrepreneur took a centered mind and a steady hand to navigate.
“My dad was a farmer in the `70s and `80s—the hardest-working man you’ll ever meet. I had crops, hogs, and cattle, and worked my whole life right beside him. I was the last in the family who could take over the farm, so it was really a foregone conclusion that it was my next step.” Wanninger said. In 1987, he drove a friend to Northwest Missouri State University for college and stumbled upon a fraternity party. By the end of the weekend, he called his dad, decided to enroll, and signed up that Monday.
While those wild frat parties may have been what drove Wanninger to higher education, he’d committed to a sober life by age 21, and his post-college career has been a reflection not only of the education he received, but of the relationships he learned to build.
“I called my dad every day until he passed 22 years ago, because family is important to me and he was just a person you wanted to talk to every day.” Wanninger said. “He treated everyone with the same level of respect. He made things just a little bit better for everyone. That is the kind of man and boss I continue to try to be.”
Wanninger may have left the farm life, but he brings the same tireless work ethic and dedication to his acquisition of new ventures. He became an entrepreneur and a business broker, and has turned his passion for creating strong relationships into dozens of successful businesses, including Beauty First, Red Rhino Roofing, and Jay Dubya Development.
“My job is to inspire people to do great things.” Wanninger said. “It’s the biggest thing you can do. If you’re helping create better lives for those around you,
you’re being successful. The money, the ventures—they’re a measuring tool. But I don’t wake up every day with a big smile on my face and filled with joy. That’s an intention I set, and I bring that to the people around me.”
He continued, “When someone who works for you is going through difficult personal matters, you can make it a little bit better by being a place where they can show up, draw from that positive energy, and feel just a little lighter. Happiness is the greatest thing you can find, and the greatest thing you can share.”
Wanninger’s attraction to that positive energy was the catalyst for his relationship with ONYX.
“I met Drew Friesen at a Mercedes dealership, and he didn’t just sell me a car. He created a really great experience for me. It was so in line with the experiences I try to create for my clients and customers, that I just felt really at home and comfortable with him,” Wanninger recalled.
When Friesen joined ONYX, he extended an invitation to his longtime acquaintance, despite Wanninger being a devoted Mercedes enthusiast. Though initially loyal to his preferred brand, the trust he had in Friesen made it easy to believe in his expertise and recommendations.
“[Friesen] got me into BMW, and there is definitely a reason they call it ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine,’” Wanninger said. “I have had, to be exact, 432 vehicles. But the power, the comfort, the tech, and everything about BMWs, especially the X6 M60i, is what I love right now.”
Wanninger is a car-guy, but these days, he considers himself an ONYX guy.
“I stop by ONYX at least once a week,” he said. “I go in just to say hi, grab a soda in the lobby, and hang out with Drew, Mark, and Jim at BMW. I just love being around good people, and I love the energy there. I hope I bring that same energy to them.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
“I STOP BY ONYX AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK. I JUST LOVE BEING AROUND GOOD PEOPLE, AND I LOVE THE ENERGY THERE.” - JOHN WANNINGER
BURGERS, BREWS, AND BIG SCREENS
30hop Brings the Heat to West Omaha
Story by Natalie Veloso // Photography by Sarah Lemke
In the burgeoning Heartwood Preserve of West Omaha, 30hop redefines the idea of an elevated sports bar. Since opening in December 2024, this establishment has been steadily drawing patrons, allured by its promise of ‘food for legends, hospitality with heart.’
Inside, large-screen TVs ensure that sports fans don’t miss a second of the action. Green tile accents lend a modern touch to the sleek interior, while expansive garage-style doors hint at the promise of open-air dining in warmer weather. Even during the chillier months, the enclosed patio area is a cozy spot to enjoy the ambiance.
30hop first opened its doors in Coralville, Iowa, in 2014, where it has seen undeniable success. Over the past decade, it has expanded to multiple locations, the Omaha venue being the first out-ofstate establishment. The name “30hop” originally stemmed from the 30 beers on tap at the inaugural location. The Omaha branch proudly continues this tradition, boasting 32 taps, with 27 dedicated to local brews.
The menu at 30hop focuses on madefrom-scratch dishes, ranging from classic comfort foods to experimental combinations. The beverage selection is equally impressive, featuring a rotating lineup of local craft beers, wine, and inventive cocktails. During my visit,
my guest and I began our meal with the 30hop Nachos as an appetizer. The generous platter featured crispy tortilla chips layered with a blend of melted cheeses, fresh pico de gallo, and a drizzle of tangy crema.
For our main courses, I opted for the Grilled Chicken Avo Club and my guest went with the signature 30hop Burger, both entrees accompanied by a side of crispy fries. The Grilled Chicken Avo Club was a delightful assembly of tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and fresh greens nestled within a soft croissant bun. My guest aptly referred to the 30hop Burger not as a simple sandwich, but an “experience,” featuring two juicy patties topped with white American cheese, chili crunch aioli, onion jam, potato sticks, house pickles, and shredded lettuce, all encased in a toasted bun.
To accompany our meal, we sampled a few of their beverage offerings. As expected, my Blueberry Squeeze Margarita was a blend of tangy blueberry and citrus notes, while the Agave Margarita offered the classic, smooth taste with a hint of sweetness my guest was hoping for. Despite neither of us being beer enthusiasts, we couldn’t resist ordering a Fairy Nectar. The local favorite, a New England-style Hazy IPA by Kros Strain Brewing, delivered the classic fruity aroma and pleasantly hoppy finish we’re more than familiar with.
GOURMET
No visit to 30hop would be complete without indulging in at least one of their two dessert options. While the Blueberry Cheesecake sounded just as satisfying, we opted for their Chocolate Layer Cake. The decadent dessert was made of moist layers of rich chocolate cake, generously frosted and drizzled with caramel, and accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream—a necessary, sweet conclusion to our dinner.
With reasonable prices, generous portions, and a beyond-friendly waitstaff, there’s nothing we didn’t enjoy about our meal. Along with the food and drinks, our server told us all about the perks at 30hop worth looking into. Their rewards program is straightforward: for every dollar spent, patrons earn one point. Accumulate 200 points, and enjoy a free appetizer. It’s a tempting incentive for repeat visits.
Their “Meet Me at 30hour” happy hour runs Sunday through Friday from 3-6 p.m., offering 30% off appetizers, draft beer, wine by the glass, house cocktails, well drinks, and call drinks. Additionally, 30hop provides the convenience of online ordering and recommends reservations during in-house peak hours to ensure timely seating.
The establishment’s proximity to ONYX Automotive makes it a perfectly convenient stop for those in the area. Its location within Heartwood Preserve also positions it as a prime spot for their Summer Saturdays, especially with the allure of the patio once the garage doors are opened during warmer days.
30hop’s ambitious expansion continues, opening a fifth location in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, with a sixth slated to debut in Merriam, Kansas, later this year. In West Omaha, it’s been a welcome addition to the local dining scene, drawing a full house even on quiet weekdays when there’s no particular game to watch.
If their track record is any indication, 30hop will keep making waves in the Midwest for many years to come.
For more information and to view the menu, visit 30hop.com.
2024 DRIVING GOOD RECAP
A Year of Impact and Community
Column by Lindsey Hinchcliff-Crotty // Image Provided
As we launch into another incredible year, we are filled with gratitude for the collective efforts of our associates, customers, and community partners who made 2024 an outstanding year for ONYX Automotive’s Driving Good initiative. Together, we created meaningful change, supported vital causes, and strengthened our community in countless ways. Let’s take a look back at some of the year’s highlights.
Supporting Omaha Nonprofits
Through the Driving Good initiative, ONYX associates and customers donated over $12,000 to local nonprofit organizations in 2024. These funds have made a direct impact, enabling our community partners to continue their vital work.
Partnering with Together Inc.
In March 2024, ONYX partnered with Together Inc. to provide essential living supplies to those in need. Associates and customers generously donated nonperishable food items, hygiene products, and other critical items. An additional $1,100 donation was made to help Together Inc. purchase essential supplies.
Strike Out Hunger
In June 2024, ONYX participated in the Food Bank for the Heartland’s annual Strike Out Hunger campaign. As one of over 20 local businesses involved, we were thrilled to contribute to the Food Bank for the Heartland’s campaign success in raising over 400,000 meals for those facing food insecurity. The ONYX team raised 11,655 meals, donating over 1,800 pounds of food and $3,580—a testament to the power of community and collaboration.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
ONYX proudly participated in Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 2024. Our signature event, PINK OUT DAY on Oct. 18, 2024, encouraged associates to wear pink and raise awareness. A custom Driving Good Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirt was designed and sold to associates, raising $3,140. All proceeds went to the Lymphedema Prevention Program for Breast Cancer Patients at Nebraska Medicine, helping improve the lives of patients facing this challenging diagnosis.
Holiday Donation Drive with Project Harmony
For the 2024 holiday season, ONYX Automotive partnered with Project Harmony for our annual Holiday Donation Drive from Nov. 13-22. We “adopted” nine families in need, raising over $5,000 to purchase meaningful gifts and brighten their holiday season. This effort embodied the spirit of giving and highlighted the incredible generosity of our associates and customers.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate the accomplishments of 2024, we look forward to continuing the Driving Good initiative in 2025 and beyond. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making last year so impactful. Throughout this year, I’ll share how ONYX continues to join forces with associates, customers, and local nonprofits to drive good in the Omaha community.
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.
CREIGHTON BASEBALL PREVIEW
Servais’ Final Ride with the Bluejays
Story by Greg Echlin // Photography by Sarah Lemke
As much as Ed Servais wants to deflect the attention from his 22nd and final season as the head baseball coach at Creighton University, he has already sampled what it’s going to be like during his last go-around.
In the fall, when the Bluejays began early preparations for the 2025 season, Servais got his final taste of Parents Weekend when sons, teammates, and coaches mingled with the parents who arrived on campus.
Servais reflected recently from his office, “You sit back and say, ‘OK, this will be the last time I really address the parents and thank them for all that they do, and all the support that they have given us and given their sons.’”
Servais also expects sentimental thoughts to creep in from time to time during travel to certain road games, either by bus to Lincoln or by air to places like Storrs, Connecticut, as the Bluejays play through their 2025 schedule.
“There’ll be a few moments like that as we navigate through the spring, ‘OK, this’ll be the last time we play this team. This will be the last time I go up against this coach.’” Servais said. “But not so much yet.”
Creighton’s emphasis now is improvement in the Big East Conference after missing the postseason conference tournament for the last two years.
Compounding last year’s frustration was the Bluejays’ inability to carry over their record of 12-0 in mid-week games to the weekend. As a result, the Bluejays finished with 7-12 record in the Big East, including a nine-game losing streak at one point in conference contests.
Despite a modestly successful 35-17 ledger in 2024, the Bluejays’ absence from postseason tournament play weighed a lot on the minds of returning players, such as outfielder Nolan Sailors, a senior starter from Ralston High School.
“At the end of last year, I thought about it a lot: ‘What went wrong? What happened?’” asked Sailors, the team leader last year in batting average (.355) and stolen bases (18 on 22 attempts) at the top of the lineup.
Sailors was a shortstop at Ralston, but inserted as a centerfielder during his freshman season with the Bluejays because of an injury.
From that experience, Sailors said he took some valuable lessons.
“I think each year, I’ve grown in that area of being a leader on the team. In my freshman year, I was thrown into it.”
Sailors doesn’t consider himself the vocal type, but by now is well-seasoned enough on the college level to lead more by example on the diamond.
The University of Connecticut, the regular season Big East champion for the last four years, was picked by the coaches to win it again in 2025. Creighton, however, has a large group of veteran players like Sailors returning.
With added depth from quality younger players, Servais said he pins his hopes on vaulting past the Bluejays’ projected fourth-place conference finish.
“We return seven out of our starting nine position players. These guys were very good players last year,” he said. “I would hope that we can continue to grow and develop those players.”
The biggest hole left from the Bluejays’ everyday lineup last season is at shortstop, where Nolan Clifford was the regular starter. Clifford, second on the team to Sailors in hitting (.348 average), was drafted over the summer by the Colorado Rockies in the 17th round of the Major League Baseball Draft.
Clifford became the 40th player selected in the MLB Draft since Servais became the Bluejays’ head coach in 2004. Eight former Bluejays under Servais, such as infielder Nicky Lopez and pitcher Pat Venditte, have made it all the way to the big leagues.
While checking out high school talent, Servais has not only had the eye for skill throughout the years, but has also envisioned how much they’d physically mature and grow through their years at C.U.
“You never give up on young people, because we don’t know when they’re going to mature or when they’re going to grow,” he said. “Sometimes, these young people grow at the age of 14 or 15.”
Servais in particular cited Venditte, a Central High School graduate, who eventually broke into the big leagues at the age of 30 and logged five years in the majors.
“If you stay with it, you never know,” said Servais.
Servais knows he’ll be incessantly asked to reflect on his own career, but plans to steer those questions toward player performances instead.
“I want the season to be about them, and not about me.”
For more information, visit gocreighton.com.
ONYX BOUTIQUE
Timeless & Classic Apparel
Story by Holly McAtee // Photography by Sarah Lemke
urchasing a vehicle at ONYX is an exclusive, first-class experience, and the excitement doesn’t stop there. Customers who proudly wear branded swag from the ONYX Boutique turn heads wherever they go.
The apparel often sparks conversations, with strangers stopping to ask where they can find such stylish pieces. Customers eagerly share that they picked it up at ONYX. They take pride in their vehicle purchase at ONYX and enjoy sharing the luxury experience with others.
“When making a large purchase of a luxury brand, people identify with that,” said General Manager Drew Friesen. “We wanted to mesh the ONYX brand for them and create that experience as a thank you. We give a bottle of wine to every customer that buys a car. They also get some nice attire. You feel good when you leave here.”
Every season, ONYX Boutique unveils a fresh collection. The pieces are crafted with top-quality materials and feature unique designs. Clients love the apparel for its exceptional craftsmanship and standout style.
“Sometimes, we give the items as a gift if they buy a vehicle or service a vehicle. It’s a nice thing to do for somebody,” Friesen explained. “Some customers come back to buy more items at the boutique on their own. If people like our items, we encourage them to tell us.”
Each vehicle brand has a boutique inside their store with one-of-a-kind items. The MINI apparel has a different look from the Land Rover or the BMW apparel.
“Our boutique items are not cheaply manufactured stuff that other dealers offer,” said Dave Arbaugh, BMW and MINI new vehicle sales manager. “Our items are high-quality items that appeal to people. People are drawn to them because they don’t just have the vehicle brand, they have the ONYX brand. They like that, because they are proud to have done business with us.”
Arbaugh continued, “The Spyder brand zip-up is popular. They fly off the shelf. People also like the rope hats and the Stanley cups. It’s beginning to grow organically.”
ONYX has partnered with the vendor MYLO Brand Studio for its latest collections. “They are a locally owned familyrun business that provides high-quality products and are great to work with,” Friesen said.
“One of the things that we take a lot of pride in is trying to do things differently in our industry,” said Angie Hauptman, co-owner of MYLO Brand Studio. “We want people who are investing in their brand. We want them to tell a story that reflects their mission or purpose. We want to provide products that match who they are.”
Every quarter, Friesen sits down with the team at MYLO as models showcase their latest creations. Friesen and the MYLO team carefully choose from various items laid out in front of them. It’s an extensive process—and the result is a new line every spring and fall. The gear is always evolving.
“We’re always using higher finished quality. That speaks to the type of buyer who shops at ONYX,” Hauptman said. “We want to make sure that the products that we are servicing fit the ONYX audience. We’re trying to be thoughtful ahead of time. We look at what is happening with the car market—we also like to stay neutral to the ONYX brand colors with black, white, and grey.”
She continued, “The Land Rover brand has some olive-green pieces of clothing. All the pieces are classy and simple. We call them quiet designs. More tone-ontone looks, not in-your-face. The ONYX logo is subtle on the sleeve, but it isn’t screaming ‘ONYX.’ It’s a quieter, sophisticated look.”
“When it’s a good product, people want to wear it,” Friesen added.
“We strive to stay on top of trends, but also match their auto buyers. We try to think from the perspective of ONYX clients. We work to keep products fresh that will meet that demand,” Hauptman said.
ONYX also sponsors Millard North’s baseball team. Their uniforms, hats, and jerseys are all Team ONYX. The back of the uniforms even have the players’ names on them.
Friesen enjoys having the boutiques as a way to show gratitude to ONYX clients.
“Most of the items are appreciation items,” he said. “If someone is in the store and has a good experience, we give them something. It makes the moment even more fun when we’re able to give apparel to our valued customers.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
ROOM TO ROAM, READY TO RUN
BMW M5 Touring Wagon: Not your father’s station wagon
Story by Dwain Hebda // Images Provided
For some time now, BMW has been redefining the family station wagon from its formerly pedestrian image to something, well, cool. Not that most American motorists knew that firsthand, as the sleek and powerful machines were never made available here in the states.
“The last M5 Touring to be produced was in 2010, and there were only about 1,000 of them made,” Daniel Schwartz, client adviser for ONYX Automotive, said. “A few years ago, BMW released models that were European-only and it created a spark in a lot of American enthusiasts who had a strong desire to see those models make it over here, which they never did.”
Given that, the news of the legendary German automaker finally bringing a wagon to replace the popular (yet discontinued) 3 Series, which disappeared from the market pre-COVID, was welcomed. To see the replacement a near - twin of the performance-heavy M5 sports sedan sent auto connoisseurs into ribald celebration, Schwartz noted.
“I think there’s a lot of pent-up demand for that BMW model over here, and I think BMW took notice of that,” he said. “We are expecting to see our first one, which is spoken for, probably early summer, and there is a lot of demand for more already. The orders are going to be filled really quickly, so if anyone’s considering one, I would highly recommend to start the conversation as soon as possible.”
The buzz over this 2025 jewel appears to be well-founded. The M5 Touring will deliver the best of the sedan with extra cargo space to boot, thanks to a plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers 717 horsepower and covers 0 to 60 in a trim 3.2 seconds. The company pairs that juice with an all-wheel drive system that is particularly welcome news to those dealing with snow-and-iceprone Midwestern driving conditions.
“The M5 comes standard with an allwheel drive system that has adaptive differential,” Schwartz said. “It will apply power to whichever wheel needs it in case there is slippage. The cool thing
with this system is you can change it to two-wheel drive, too. There are a lot of track enthusiasts who want a rearwheel drive vehicle for when they’re going around the track.”
Churning out those impressive numbers in power and acceleration are the same twin-turbocharged V-8 engine and electric motor that power the sedan. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, rear-biased all-wheel drive, adaptive dampers, rear-wheel steering, rear spoiler, and huge brakes, it’s the wagon that identifies as a performance car.
“‘Fast’ doesn’t quite do the M5 justice,” wrote Kurt Niebuhr in a recent review for Edmunds. “It’s actually difficult to put into words what it feels like when you really lay into the M5 Touring. Yeah, it’s fast. But it’s faster than that. Acceleration is so effortless, especially at moderately high speeds, like 50 to 100 mph, that it’s almost disorienting.”
While the vehicle delivers the kind of muscle one would expect from the engineering wizards at BMW, arguably the most impressive powertrain achievement is the eDrive system, which allows for up to 25 miles on all-electric mode. And not just any putt-putt either; the electric motor delivers instant power and maximizes acceleration by seamlessly interacting with the 4.4-liter V-8. As Niebuhr cooed, “This isn’t a plug-in hybrid centered around efficiency.”
“It’s a great way to blend electric and petrol engines together,” Schwartz said. “The two engines in combination really give you the best of both worlds. You get the instant torque of the electric motor and then you get the high-end performance of the gas motor, and when you combine them, it’s really a beautiful marriage.”
Even the interior appointments hearken to the M5 Touring’s racier pedigree. Leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting, a concert-hall sound system, and plenty of digital displays all combine to wrap occupants in comfort and amenities, upgradable to Merino leather or the Executive option package, which offers nearly every highend feature imaginable.
“There’s a lot more modern technology with a panoramic screen, and yet it’s a little more minimalistic, too,” Schwartz said. “Instead of having dials cluttered all over the dash, BMW opted for a sleeker and more streamlined operating system. Being a Touring model, it also has that big panoramic moon roof, so when you have that opened up, it lets in a lot of natural light that adds a more welcoming touch.”
The M5 Touring is so engaging to drive, it’s easy to forget the utility of its rear cargo space. The luggage area offers 18 cubic feet of stowage, which yawns open to 58 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks folded down.
The external design of the vehicle is equally stunning, with flared wheel arches and widened quarter panels that provide a sleek profile. The M5 Touring roars through quad exhausts framed by a two-section diffuser out back, while the available BMW Iconic Glow Kidney Grill, contour lights, and double light signature front headlights announce the car’s approach with an elegant flourish.
With a starting MSRP of $121,500, per BMWusa.com, the M5 Touring doesn’t come cheap, but compares favorably in price to other models in its class. Schwartz said that, given the cargo space, the M5 is more than just a prestige vehicle, capable of handling the everyday chores of family life.
“It’s a great-sized vehicle and it does offer a few more practical features,” he said. “With a Touring model, there’s a little more cargo space than a typical sedan—enough space to throw in some car seats or golf bags and go to the driving range, or even fit a compact bike in the back. For all of the high-tech and high-performance you get, it’s designed to be a good, all-around practical vehicle.”
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com.
Story by Isaac Nielsen // Image provided
W OFF THE GRID Stacy Kasmarick Puts Land Rover to the Test
hen Jaguar Land Rover employee Stacy Kasmarick agreed to compete in the Rebelle Rally, she didn’t just sign up for any road race. The eight-day competition challenges off-road racers to trust a physical map over Google while putting their courage and navigation skills to the test. For Kasmarick, who had never done anything of the sort before, it was an opportunity she almost passed up.
Kasmarick’s journey to the Rebelle Rally, which is “the first women’s off-road navigation rally raid in the United States,” according to the event’s website, was one she was originally reluctant to take. It started with an idea from her coworker and friend, Stephanie Kowall.
“[Kowall] basically said, ‘why don’t you sponsor a team of employees that work here?’” Kasmarick recalled. “When she first asked me, I said absolutely not…because I don’t know how to camp.”
But Kowall, who “is definitely an off-road driver,” Kasmarick said, didn’t give up. After wearing down her friend, Kowall gave it one last shot.
“One day, she called me, and she’s like, ‘today’s the last day. I’m assuming I know your answer, but I’m just giving you a call.’ And I said, ‘yep, I’ll do it.’ I don’t know what came over me,” Kasmarick said.
Kasmarick agreed on one condition—that she wouldn’t be the driver of the two-person team. “I told her right off the bat, the only way I’ll do it is if I don’t have to drive,” Kasmarick said. “I’m a good city driver, but city driving is the only thing I do. And the thought of driving off-road on some of the cliffs and the terrain, I was like, ‘no way. I’m not gonna do it.’”
Luckily, Kowall, who admitted to getting carsick and struggling to read a map, was her perfect match. Kowall took the wheel while Kasmarick assumed the role of meticulous navigator.
While the duo had the driving aspect of the competition planned out, they soon learned that the Rebelle Rally had more challenges in store. Teams rely solely on maps and compasses to navigate the desert in Nevada and California, with electronics strictly prohibited. Kasmarick said she received her checkpoints by 5 a.m. each day and had to plot all the points of interest within an hour.
The challenges didn’t stop there. The 68 teams battled extreme weather and rugged terrain without much protection from the elements. “[We were] completely roughing it,” Kasmarick said. “We would wake up at, like, 4:30 in the morning…and there would be an inch of sand over everything in our little tent.”
Ironically, Kasmarick said her favorite moment of the event came when she and Kowall found themselves lost on a mountain with four other teams. “We all kind of met up in the same area because there was no direction to go,” Kasmarick recalled. “The direction we wanted to go in, there was no path whatsoever. I think the best part about it that made Stephanie and I work out together… We all grouped together, and after that, when we were driving, I was telling Stephanie, ‘see, teams do work better together.’”
For Kasmarick, the real prize wasn’t a medal or trophy, as that honor went to a team that had competed in all nine years of the rally. But with multiple teams dropping out, she felt plenty of pride. “I wasn’t as concerned with winning as [much as] the accomplishment of finishing it,” Kasmarick said.
She even said she came away with a closer friendship with her partner and driver—one that grew through the trials the two faced together. “Stephanie and I were good friends through work, but we were actually really lucky that we became better friends after, because there absolutely were some—I don’t want to call them breakups—but there was some tension with some teams,” Kasmarick said.
“I’VE DRIVEN THREE DEFENDERS, AND I HAVE NEVER PUT ONE THROUGH THE TERRAIN THAT WE PUT IT THROUGH.”
STACY KASMARICK
Kasmarick and Kowall competed in a 2024 Land Rover Defender, a vehicle Kasmarick knows well from her work at Jaguar Land Rover. “I’ve driven three Defenders, and I have never put one through the terrain that we put it through,” Kasmarick said. The Defender surprised her with its capabilities, handling steep inclines, boulders, and even “33 inches of water with no problem whatsoever.”
The two named their car “Kendra,” a playful nod to their shared last-name initials. “There were some tough terrains where we were killing the car,” Kasmarick said. “We’re like, ‘come on, Kendra. Don’t let us down.’” “Kendra” held strong, never even popping a tire. “I never realized what these cars were capable of,” Kasmarick said.
While Kowall plans to compete again, Kasmarick is content with her one-anddone experience. “I said to myself, I’m too old to do this anymore. I’m glad I did it, and I’m glad I experienced it. But, no, Stephanie is looking for another partner. I told her that I would be more than happy to help train,” Kasmarick said.
For customers considering the Land Rover Defender, Kasmarick said it’s worth knowing its full potential. “I never knew its capabilities, even the functions and the screens of the different terrains,” Kasmarick said. “I had gone through the training class on it, but I said to myself, ‘when would I ever use this?’ And, of course, that is exactly the time I used it.
For more information, visit onyxautomotive.com/new-vehicles/land-rover.
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RIDE ON Omaha’s Best Trails, Rides, and Cycling Adventures
Story by Natalie Veloso // Image provided
Cycling in Omaha isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B— it’s an opportunity to explore, connect, and embrace the city’s great outdoors. With a growing community of cyclists learning how to have a good time on two wheels, there’s never been a better moment to grab a bike and hit the road.
Over 120 miles of paved trails and an urban network aptly dubbed “Paths of Discovery” beckon cyclists to explore a different facet of the metro area with each ride. In fact, Omaha boasts over 80 miles of paved paths within its city park system alone, with many trails running alongside creeks—most notably along the Papillion Creek corridor on the Keystone Trail, a vital artery in the city’s network.
For those who find mountain biking more their style, the Omaha area is a playground. Platte River State Park offers some of the best mountain bike trails around, and local favorites like Tranquility Park are an ideal way to enjoy the natural beauty of the city. Adventurers can head out of town to the Lewis and Clark Monument Trail in Council Bluffs or the Jewell Park Mountain Bike and Hiking Trail in Bellevue. Closer to home, Adams Park recently introduced an “all wheels zone”—a bike-centric amenity featuring a dedicated bicycle playground and a modular pumptrack for riders of all skill levels.
The Omaha metro offers a little something for every cyclist’s taste, but for those willing to venture a bit farther afield, Cone Park in Sioux City, Iowa, reaches new heights. A 500-foot carpet lift at this mountain bike park transports riders to the top, minimizing uphill effort and allowing more time to enjoy the trails. Cone Park features 10.5 miles of natural surface singletrack trails and is just an hour and a half from Omaha, making it an ideal day trip to pack up the bikes and go for a ride.
Group Rides and Cycling Events
Trails in the area offer endless opportunities for solo rides, but sometimes, the best cycling experiences come with a group. These recurring events offer cyclists a chance to connect, explore new routes, and enjoy a ride with a built-in social scene.
Thursday Night Taco Rides
Every Thursday, all summer long—it’s the very ride that’s been fueling area cyclists for decades. The legendary Thursday Night Taco Ride offers 20 miles of scenic adventure on the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Iowa. From Council Bluffs to Mineola, this weekly tradition combines the best of two worlds: a fun bike ride and a taco feast at Tobey Jack’s Mineola Steakhouse. Riders gather at the Iowa West Foundation Trailhead Park, and the trail winds through the stunning Loess Hills along the way. This ride isn’t just about the destination—it’s a community event. Just make sure you bring your headlights, helmets, and a sense of adventure.
PINT-a-gon Tap Room Ride
Fans of local beer and good company won’t want to miss this one. The PINT-agon Tap Room Ride and Poker Run happens once a month during select months in La Vista. Starting each ride at a different participating local brewery, riders embark on a 9-mile loop while riding at a comfortable pace, utilizing side roads and trails whenever possible. The 2024 ride visited six breweries, including Kros Strain Brewing, Nebraska Brewing, Lucky Bucket Brewing, Pint Nine Brewing, Infusion Brewing, and Alamo Drafthouse. Along the way, riders can draw a poker card at each brewery to build their hand—the top hand wins a prize at the end of the ride.
ROAD TRIP
The Slide Ride
The motto here is simple: “We don’t go fast, and we don’t go far.” Hosted by Trek Omaha West, this laid-back ride takes off every Wednesday evening from Stinson Park in Aksarben Village, typically from April through September. Covering 10-15 miles at a leisurely pace, the ride is the perfect midweek outing for cyclists looking to unwind and socialize. This one isn’t a race—it’s all about enjoying the journey and connecting with friends, old and new. After the ride, riders often gather at Pauli’s for a well-earned adult beverage. Just remember, no children, and be sure to bring a bike, helmet, and hydration.
ONYX Vehicles Built for Cyclists on the Go
Cyclists who seek both adventure and luxury will find plenty of options to suit their needs at ONYX Automotive. “Almost every vehicle sold at ONYX can support not just an urban lifestyle, but an active one as well,” Marketing Director Tom Coleman said. “Most of our SUVs and crossovers offer trailer hitch mounts, which are ideal to carry bicycles.”
Most BMW X and Land Rover models, for example, can be equipped with a towing package that includes a factoryinstalled trailer hitch. This setup allows for a hitch-mounted bike rack, making it easier than ever to transport bicycles securely while taking advantage of the vehicle’s robust performance and towing capabilities.
“Many of our SUVs also have roof rails to support a roof-mounted bike system, and they’re built with high ground clearance and four-wheel drive systems— perfect for navigating rugged terrain and reaching any trailhead that you’re after,” Coleman said. Even for those who prefer a more compact ride, most MINI vehicles feature roof rails or have them available as an option for a space-efficient way to transport your bike.
With the right combination of luxury, capability, and convenience, ONYX vehicles make it easy to hit the road—and the trails—without compromise.
