This season is a time to gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories. While many enjoy the holidays with loved ones, others spend this time in service, keeping our communities safe. For them, the holidays may look different, but they’re filled with joy, purpose, and unique traditions. Here, we hear from a few everyday heroes in our community as they share what the season means to them, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for their dedication and sacrifice.
Jeremy Orr, Battalion Chief, Employee of Papillion Fire since 2007
What does the role you play in the community mean to you?
Serving Papillion, La Vista, and the Papillion Rural Fire District is truly an honor. Our community constantly shows appreciation and support, which means more than words can express. We often meet people on their hardest days, so we strive to serve with compassion, professionalism, and integrity. Simple smiles and waves from residents remind us why we do what we do.
What do you do on Christmas, New Year's, and Thanksgiving to celebrate when you are on the job?
The fire service runs 24/7, even on holidays. While daily duties like equipment checks, chores, and training continue, we do carve out time to relax. Family members often stop by the stations to visit, and we try to share a holiday meal, though many times it’s interrupted or eaten cold due to calls, but we have learned to adapt to these things.
Do you have any special traditions surrounding this time of year?
Whenever I work a holiday, my family tries to visit me at the station. My wife always makes it a point to get a picture. It’s become a tradition, and it’s been fun watching my kids “grow up” from babies to teenagers through those pictures.
Dominique Lathan, 9-1-1 Dispatcher since 2023
What does the role you play in the community mean to you?
I’ve lived in Nebraska, specifically Sarpy County, most of my life. Growing up in Bellevue and graduating from Bellevue West, it’s rewarding to serve the community I’ve always called home. It feels like a full-circle moment.
What do you do on Christmas, New Year's, and Thanksgiving to celebrate when you are on the job?
During the holidays, we give back by adopting a Veteran and a nursing home. We also host potlucks, exchange Secret Santa gifts, and invite family to visit. Spending so much time together, coworkers often become a second family.
How do you celebrate the holidays with your family and friends outside of work?
I love the holidays, especially Thanksgiving. I enjoy eating, playing games, and spending quality time with my family. I’ve had the same best friends since childhood, and we make time for a Friendsgiving each year.
Do you have any special traditions surrounding this time of year?
My husband and I are still creating new traditions for our two kids. One that stands out is the last few years we have gone to the Christmas Light show at Werner Park. We always have so much fun!
Carl Consolver, Assistant Executive Director and Director of Nursing at Miles Memory Care since 2022
What does the role you play in the community mean to you?
I have the pure privilege to care for clients who can no longer care for themselves, offering not just physical support but emotional care to both residents and their families. Listening and being present with them is a vital part of what I do.
What do you do on Christmas, New Year's, and Thanksgiving to celebrate when you are on the job?
While working through the holidays, we strive to create a traditional holiday feel of family gatherings and festive celebrations through food, the smells of cooking turkey or music. No matter the occasion, it is important to involve families and join the residents while celebrating the season.
How do you celebrate the holidays with your family and friends outside of work?
During the holidays, I hold on to traditions passed down through my family tree. I bake Thanksgiving desserts the night before to fill the house with that rich aroma of freshly-baked spice. We decorate the Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving and transform the outside of our home into a Christmas wonderland for my kids. New Year’s Eve is a time of hope, where we celebrate new beginnings and aim for an even better year ahead.