SEPTEMBER 2025
SEPTEMBER 2025
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Welcome to Douglas County Connection, a monthly newsletter for Douglas County employees. This newsletter aims to foster stronger connections within our organization by informing you about important updates, community events, and noteworthy achievements across our County departments. Have a story idea? Email newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov.
DOUGLAS COUNTY NEWS
The latest news from Douglas County
Douglas County leaders, staff and community members gathered recently for a beam-signing ceremony to celebrate progress on the new Community Mental Health Center.
The Douglas County Emergency Management Agency recently collaborated with local agencies and community partners to sharpen crisis communication skills.
The Douglas County Election Commission recently held a special ceremony to honor election workers who have served 20 years or more as a volunteer. Their decades of service help us guarantee safe, secure, accurate, and accessible elections here in Douglas County.
Six Decades. 80+ Elections. One Extraordinary Volunteer.
George Reed poses for a group photo after being recognized by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners at the County Board meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
Bob Evnen, Nebraska Secretary of State, presented George Reed with the NASS Medallion Award from the National Association of Secretaries of State on August 27, 2025.
Meet George Reed, the bedrock of Douglas County elections. Since his first election in 1960, Mr. Reed has volunteered in more than 80 elections, bringing unmatched knowledge, dedication, and consistency.
At 86 years old, he continues to serve as a district supervisor, overseeing polling places, resolving issues quickly, and guiding fellow election workers with steady leadership.
In recognition of his more than six decades of exemplary volunteer service, Mr. Reed was recently presented with the Medallion Award from the National Association of Secretaries of State, an admiralship in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska, and proclamations from the Douglas County Board of Commissioners and the Omaha City Council.
Inducted into the Poll Worker Hall of Fame in 2010, Mr. Reed has become a trusted presence at the polls — and he’s not done yet. He’s already looking ahead to the next election in May 2026.
Thank you, Mr. Reed, for your remarkable dedication to ensuring safe, secure, and accessible elections for the citizens of Douglas County.
Members of George Reed's family attended the recent recognition ceremony to celebrate his outstanding service as an election worker.
Honoring Tony Martinez: A Century of Life and Service
Honoring Tony Martinez: A Century of Life and Service
Dan Esch, Douglas County Clerk/Comptroller, presents a resolution honoring Tony Martinez, World War II veteran and a resident of the Douglas County Health Center.
Tony Martinez, 101-year-old World War II veteran and resident of the Douglas County Health Center, listens as Douglas County Clerk/Comptroller Dan Esch reads a resolution honoring his life and service to the United States.
As the world remembered the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II on September 2, 2025, Douglas County is proud to honor one of its own heroes — Tony Martinez, a 101-year-old World War II veteran and resident of the Douglas County Health Center.
Born and raised in Omaha as the youngest of seven children, Martinez attended South High School, where he wrestled and boxed in Golden Gloves tournaments. After graduation, he began working at the Swift Packing Plant in South Omaha. But at age 19, his path changed when he was drafted into the United States Army to serve his country.
Within six months of being drafted, Martinez rose to the rank of Corporal and was soon on his way to Europe aboard the Queen Elizabeth. For three years, he served in the First Division’s anti-aircraft artillery, completing missions across Scotland, England, France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany.
When he returned home, Martinez purchased a 1941 yellow Chevrolet convertible and resumed his career at the Swift Packing Plant, where he would later retire. He also devoted himself to serving fellow veterans through the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, extending the same dedication and camaraderie he had shown during the war.
This spring, Martinez was honored by Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen through the Governor’s World War II Recognition Program, which pays tribute to Nebraska’s living World War II veterans.
Today, as a resident of the Douglas County Health Center, Martinez continues to inspire those around him. Known for his kindness and respect toward staff and fellow residents, he remains a living example of resilience, service, and humility.
The Douglas County Board of Commissioners recognized Martinez with a formal resolution at its Aug. 26 board meeting, thanking him for his selfless service to the United States.
We salute Corporal Tony Martinez — for his bravery during World War II, his lifelong dedication to veterans, and his enduring presence as a beloved member of our community.
World War II veteran Tony Martinez, 101, is recognized by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners. From left are Commissioner Brian Fahey, Vice Chair Mike Friend, Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson, Commissioner P.J. Morgan and Chair Roger Garcia. In back is Douglas County Clerk/Comptroller Dan Esch.
Finding Purpose Through Recovery: Emily Newby’s Journey
Emily Newby, LIMHP, LADC
Community Mental Health Center
Intensive Outpatient Program
Douglas County Corrections Re-Entry Assistance Program
September is National Recovery Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and hope of those who have faced addiction and found a new path forward.
For Douglas County employee Emily Newby, recovery is more than her personal story — it is the foundation of her career and the passion that fuels her every day.
Emily joined Douglas County in 2018, beginning as a corrections counselor before becoming a dual substance abuse and mental health therapist in 2019. Today, she serves as an Intensive Outpatient Therapist in the Re-Entry Assistance Program (RAP) at Douglas County Corrections, where she leads group therapy, provides one-on-one counseling, and helps clients rebuild their lives.
Her work is deeply personal. Emily has been clean and sober since February 10, 2005, following years of battling alcoholism and meth addiction. “When I share that I’m also in recovery, clients often feel a sense of relief,” she explained. “They’ll say, ‘Oh, so you get it.’ That’s when real trust begins.”
For Emily, recovery is not just about abstaining from substances — it’s about restoring families and creating hope. “When a client succeeds, it means their family gets to be whole again,” she said. “I didn’t do it for them, but I helped them get there. Just like others once helped me.”
Her counseling journey began early. Emily knew at age 12 that she wanted to be a counselor, but wasn’t sure what kind. After struggling with addiction and facing the criminal justice system herself, she returned to school to finish her degree in chemical dependency counseling. She has now worked in the recovery field for nearly two decades, including the last seven years with Douglas County.
The work isn’t always easy. Relapse, setbacks, and even the loss of clients weigh heavily on her. Yet Emily approaches each day with compassion and purpose. “I don’t feel like this is a job,” she said. “I love what I do. I don’t want to do anything else, ever.”
Outside of work, Emily stays connected to the Omaha recovery community, sponsors other women in Alcoholics Anonymous, and finds joy in live music, reading, and time with her pets. She recently purchased her first home, a milestone she never imagined possible during the darker chapters of her life.
Emily’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible — and that lived experience can become a source of healing for others. “There are so many paths to recovery,” she said. “What matters is finding the one that works for you. My job is to walk alongside people until they believe they can do it too.”
As Douglas County recognizes National Recovery Month, employees like Emily Newby stand as living proof that with support, perseverance, and hope, recovery is not just possible — it is transformative.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Celebrating Love and Dedication
Meet Joanna Kinart (Worley):
For three years, Joanna Worley has brought compassion and care to residents at the Douglas County Health Center. As a nursing assistant in the memory care unit, Joanna says her work feels deeply personal. “It reminds me of taking care of my grandparents, and the residents are like family to me,” she shared.
This summer, Joanna celebrated a milestone of her own. On June 13, 2025, she married the love of her life, marking the start of a new chapter. In July, she and her husband traveled to Monterey, California, for their honeymoon, where they enjoyed the scenic coastline and time together as newlyweds.
DOUGLAS COUNTY'S GOT TALENT!
Got Talent? We want to hear from you!
Do you play in a band or have musical skills to share? We are compiling a list of musicians who work for Douglas County for a future event.
Whether you sing, play an instrument, or perform in a group, we want to celebrate your talent!
If you’re interested in being included, please send the following information:
Your name and department
Your musical talent (instrument, vocals, band, etc.)
Band or group name (if applicable)
Contact information (email and phone number)
Please email the information to newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov
We look forward to sharing your musical talent with our community!
CredibleMind is Here to Support Your Mental Well-Being
The Douglas County Health Department is excited to introduce CredibleMind—a free, confidential, and always-available online platform designed to support your mental wellness.
Launched in May as part of the “Mind Matters: Let’s Talk” campaign, CredibleMind is part of an ongoing effort to break the stigma around mental health and make it easier to start honest conversations at work, at home, and in our neighborhoods.
“This initiative is all about creating a culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health and seek help when you need it,” said Leah Casanave, Division Chief of Community Health, Nutrition and Clinic Services. “Because here in Douglas County, your mind matters and it’s time we talk about it.”
What is CredibleMind?
Think of it as a digital library and wellness coach in one. The platform offers:
More than 16,000 resources and 100 topics like stress, anxiety, mindfulness, parenting, grief, and relationships.
Curated videos, podcasts, articles, and mobile apps tailored to your interests.
Self-assessments to check in on your mental well-being.
Resources that go beyond mental health, including housing, legal support, pet care, and medical, dental, and vision services.
No matter how you prefer to learn—reading, listening, or watching—CredibleMind makes it easy to find support that fits your life.
“We’re proud to provide an inclusive, stigma-free resource that meets people where they are—literally and emotionally,” Casanave added.
Made for Douglas County
CredibleMind isn’t just a national resource, it was built with Douglas County residents in mind. The platform connects you to local providers and services to make sure help is never far away.
Ready to explore? Visit douglascounty.crediblemind.com today and take the first step in your mental wellness journey.
HR NEWS
HR NEWS
The latest news and important information from Douglas County Human Resources
Civil Service Commission Election News
Civil Service Commission Election News
In early August the election was held for the two Civil Service Commission (CSC) elected official positions.
Dan Esch (D) and Todd Pfitzer (R) accepted the nominations and were elected for the three-year term.
The CSC responsibilities are outlined in the Nebraska §23-401 to 23-418. Part of the scope is to guarantee to all citizens fair and equal opportunities for employment in the county offices, to establish personnel policy rules and to hear appeals of employees who are discharged, suspended or demoted.
Thank you, Commissioner Esch and Commissioner Pfitzer, for your service!
Open Enrollment 2026 - Get Ready!
Open Enrollment 2026 - Get Ready!
Open Enrollment will begin at the end of October.
All employees will be required to make their 2026 elections.
Enrollment specialists will be available or employees can come to the HR office for assistance.
Make sure your address and phone number are current in Oracle Self Service (See Below) so insurance providers receive accurate information.
Oracle - Updating Personal Information
Oracle - Updating Personal Information
Make sure your information is current before Open Enrollment!
Did you know that you can update your personal information in the same place you check your paystub?
Employees can update address, phone, and emergency contacts through the Personal Information section.
Log into Oracle here.
If you need your Oracle password reset, contact DotComm: 402-444-3663.
2026 Wellness Credit Deadline
2026 Wellness Credit Deadline
Deadline to earn your wellness credit is Nov. 30th
To qualify:
Complete your Health Assessment
Complete your Biometric Screening
If you missed the onsite biometric screening, print the Physician Form and take it to your doctor or login to your Asset Health account to schedule an appointment with Quest Diagnostics.
Earn 300 Points
Log into your Asset Health Portal to get started!
While you're there, check out the Resources tab for monthly newsletters, wellness tips, and recipes like this Healthier Autumn Apple Cobbler.
Telehealth services available with Amwell
Telehealth services available with Amwell
Available 24/7 in all 50 states.
Great for when you are traveling or you are too sick to go in person.
Telehealth can be used for:
Sinus infection/Ear Infection
Cold/Flu/Fever/Sore Throat
Rash/Pinkeye
Migraine
Behavioral telehealth is also available 7am - 11pm (local time), 7 days a week!
Visit nebraskablue.com/telehealth to learn more and register.
Virtual Physical Therapy - Sword Thrive
Virtual Physical Therapy - Sword Thrive
A dedicated physical therapist will design a program that meets your needs.
Sword will ship you a tablet and motion sensors that will allow for real time guidance and feedback.
Complete your sessions in the privacy of your home - when it is convenient for you.
Virtual support from your physical therapist is available anytime.
Available to employees and spouses that are enrolled in the Douglas County medical plan.
Have questions? Visit the FAQ Page for more information.
Visit the Sword Health Registration Page to sign up!
Don't forget to spend your FSA dollars!
Don't forget to spend your FSA dollars!
You can roll over a maximum of $660 into 2026.
Any funds above the maximum rollover amount will be forfeited.
Applicable to Medical and Limited Medical Flexible Spending Accounts.
For more information about FSA accounts visit the HR Benefits page.
Log into your account here.
Employee Assistance Program
Employee Assistance Program
Provided through CHI Employee Assistance.
In-person and virtual appointments available.
EAP counselors can assist you with a variety of concerns, including:
Work Related Stress
Marital and Family Distress
Loss and Grief
Anxiety, Depression, or Emotional Stress
Addictions
Life Changes
Legal/Financial Challenges
Call 402-398-5566 or 888-847-4975
Visit the EAP website for more information.
457 Supplemental Retirement Plans
Allows for pre-tax deductions to save for retirement.
Options available through 2 vendors - Voya or Nationwide.
What is a 457 plan? Read more here.
Visit the HR Voluntary Benefits page for vendor contact information.
YMCA Membership Fees - Payroll Deduction
Employees may elect to pay YMCA membership fees through payroll deductions on the second check of each month.
Click here for information on location and rates.
Visit the HR Voluntary Benefits page for information on enrollment.
Student Loan Benefit - Savi
What can Savi do for you?
Save you money on your monthly payments
Create a clear path to apply for student loan forgiveness programs
Provide answers to all of your student loan questions through educational webinars and customized support
Keep you updated on new programs and policy changes
For more information or to sign up click here.
Welcome New Employees!
Welcome New Employees!
Assessor/Register of Deeds
Fran Catrair
Travis Leichleiter
Alec Irlbeck
Keith Harner
LaNundra Colbert
Clerk of the District Court
Sam Boyle
Community Mental Health Center
ShaKeima Davis
Genneses Alvarado
Ben Huss
General Assistance
Rochelle Epperson
Corrections
Kenneth Hernandez
Nicole Kimpel
Sheree Russell
Jake Scott
Kyara Santiago Canseco
Joshua Robles
Courtney Lavato Jr.
Dajhsha Sykes
Sam Curry
Cristal Genchi-Ramirez
Jasmin Ortiz
Cheryse Baromeo
Pat Knudsen
Mike Bradley
Michael Watson
Alaysa Shaw
Matt Rossow
Samantha Reid
Donte Fountain
Sirrena Kern
Josh Marshall
Joey Capobianco
Segun Aisinkin
Health Center
Abdul Mwanambaji
Ella Mae Hutton
William McNally
Irma Mitchell
Ebal Morales
Tagura Stevenson
Lenette Trofy
Health Department
Lauren Vargas Akoto
Tibyan Abdallah
Anna Hansen
Public Properties
Jacob Meggers
Sheriff
Jennifer Heiser
Kailey Lazenby
Jason Underwood
Justin Pleskac
Tiffany Vohnout
Natalie Kavan
Congratulations!
Congratulations!
RETIREMENTS
Felecia Murray - Corrections
PROMOTIONS
Nissa Jones - County Attorney
Sahandath Onifade - Health Center
James Bullington - Sheriff
Mandy Woodward - Sheriff
COMMUNITY EVENTS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Free (or cheap) Family-Friendly Events in Douglas County This Month
FAMILY FUN
One Community Cultural Festival
Sept. 12
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
FREE
Gene Leahy Mall, Omaha
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/events/?eventid=8008
Boomstock
Sept. 27
4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
FREE
Gene Leahy Mall, Omaha
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/events/?eventid=8052
OUTDOOR EVENTS
Opera Outdoors
Sept. 5
7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
FREE
Turner Park,
3110 Farnam St., Omaha https://midtowncrossing.com/event/opera-omaha-2025/
Roller Skate at The Skate Ribbon
Open Daily
Hours vary
FREE with your own skates or $5 for adult skate rental and children 12 and under can rent skates for $4.
8th and Farnam Streets, Omaha
https://theriverfrontomaha.com/visit-the-riverfront/heartland-of-america-park/
ART
Rockbrook Village Art Fair
Sept. 6 & 7
Starts at 10 a.m. both days.
FREE
Rockbrook Village,
108th and West Center, Omaha https://rockbrookvillage.com/art-fair/
Visit The Joslyn Art Museum
Open daily Tuesday through Sunday
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(closes at 8 p.m. on Wed & Thur)
FREE
2200 Dodge St., Omaha
https://joslyn.org/visit/calendar
For more family-friendly events, check out Family Fun in Omaha. Please know this list is not affiliated with Douglas County and includes events that take place outside of Douglas County.
JOB POSTINGS
JOB POSTINGS
Recent job postings from Douglas County Human Resources
Do you know someone that is interested in joining Douglas County? Refer a friend! With 22 different departments serving our community, there is something for everyone! Check out our full list of open positions and submit applications on the Douglas County Careers page.
Apprentice Engineer
Apprentice Engineer
Compensation: $23.25/Hour
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Must obtain a Third Grade Engineer Certificate within 18 months of hire required.
Supplemental training in plumbing, electrical, or HVAC preferred.
Valid driver’s license upon hire and maintained throughout employment required.
Completion of a pre-employment criminal record check and conditional offer drug screen and physical assessment required.
Click here to view the full job description and submit your application
Registered Nurse
Registered Nurse
Compensation: $40.22 - $50.83/Hour
Registered Nurse with a current Nebraska license required.
One (1) year of experience as a Registered Nurse required.
Experience in an adolescent detention healthcare setting preferred.
Completion of a pre-employment criminal records check, post-offer drug screen and physical assessment.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license at the time of hire and throughout employment.
Click here to view the full job description and submit your application
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
In case you missed our recent social media stories, here’s a look at what we are sharing with our online community.
Families lined the streets as Commissioner Mary Ann Borgeson led this year’s Millard Days Parade, a festive event featuring floats, candy, and community spirit.
As you tidy up closets, garages, and junk drawers, remember—batteries don’t belong in your trash or recycling bin. Click above for some helpful tips on battery recycling and safety.
The Douglas County Board of Commissioners recently recognized Felecia Murray for her 21 years of dedicated service to the Douglas County Department of Corrections.
Meet Your Newsletter Team!
Employee Giveaway!
Win a FREE DRINK from Scooter's
Want to win a FREE coffee or a drink of your choice from Scooter's Coffee? Email us a photo of yourself on vacation and tell us what you love about your job at newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov.
Winners will be randomly chosen from all submissions, so don’t miss your chance! Be sure to send your entry by Friday, September 26 at 4 p.m. Central.
Special thanks to this month's giveaway sponsor:
Contact us:
Contact us:
Do you have a story idea for our newsletter or want to highlight an employee or colleague?
Email us at: newsletter@douglascounty-ne.gov
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