River City Six: Booker Beck
Since 1959, Just Good Meat has taken great pride in providing the finest quality beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and exotic meats in the area. Today, they’ve grown to offer so much more, with an amazing selection of homemade sides and dishes along with the addition of catering and an online storefront. Booker Beck is the Manager of Just Good Meat (justgoodmeatomaha.com).
How did you get started in the business?
My goal was to make the transition into a new career. I was a roofer for a long time before this and it was taking a heavy toll on me. I’ve been with Just Good Meat for 4 years now, working my way up to the role I’m in now.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
I would say it’s been embarking on a new career path, learning a whole new business and trade, and then starting at the bottom and working my way up to the role I’m in now.
Tell us a little about your family.
I have been married to my wife Kirstin for 5 years. We have a son named Booker Jr. and he is 6 years old. We currently live in Omaha.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Becoming a father. It changed my entire outlook on life.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I enjoy playing video games, spending time at Zorinsky Lake with family and friends, and going to the zoo with my son.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
Nothing really; I consider myself to be a pretty average guy.
What are you the most proud of?
My family.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
‘If the pork chop was perfect, we wouldn’t have hot dogs.’
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
River of Dreams by Billy Joel.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The ability to slow down time. With that power, I would never be late for work again!
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
I’m a creative type and enjoy doing artistic things.
Which talent would you most like to have?
The ability to sing well! Sadly, I have no vocal talent whatsoever.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be?
Something related to the stock market.
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
Just Good Meat is very involved with the Siena/Francis House. We hold many fundraisers with them and are always donating to the cause.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
Holes by Louis Sachar or The Contender by Robert Lipsyte.
What is your favorite movie?
Waterworld with Kevin Costner.
What is your favorite TV show?
I watch a lot of SportsCenter.
What is your favorite local restaurant?
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Honest Abe.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
Visit our website at justgoodmeatomaha.com or give me a call at the store at (402) 339-7474.