Simi Valley honors national champion ice skater Rachel Samiri and Teacher of the Year Gary Rheinsteyn

In a spirited gathering at the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 17, 2024, community achievements and holiday goodwill took center stage. The atmosphere buzzed with gratitude and celebration as supervisors reflected on the year’s accomplishments and recognized individuals making a difference in the community.

Supervisor LaVaer opened the meeting with heartfelt remarks, expressing disbelief at the retirement of long-serving colleagues. He shared highlights from a recent Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce breakfast, where he thanked the city for its hospitality and congratulated the Chamber on its ongoing efforts. A particularly touching moment came when he presented a certificate of achievement to 12-year-old Rachel Samiri, a national ice skating champion, who he confidently predicted would shine at the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics.

The meeting also honored Gary Rheinsteyn as the Teacher of the Year for the Simi Valley Unified School District, celebrating the dedication of educators in shaping young minds. As the holiday season approached, LaVaer emphasized the importance of supporting those less fortunate, highlighting various local organizations conducting toy drives for families in need. From the sheriff's department to community groups, many were working tirelessly to spread joy during this festive time.

Supervisor Lopez echoed these sentiments, expressing appreciation for the county staff's hard work and dedication. He paid tribute to community members who had passed, including decorated Vietnam veterans, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by many.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the graduation of the first cohort from a firefighter training program established in 2018 at a local fire camp. This initiative, aimed at reducing recidivism and providing valuable skills, was celebrated as a transformative opportunity for participants, many of whom had faced significant challenges in their lives.

The meeting concluded with a sense of community spirit and hope, as supervisors reflected on the importance of coming together to support one another. As they prepared to enter a closed session, the atmosphere remained charged with anticipation for future developments and continued collaboration in serving Ventura County. The gathering not only marked the end of the year but also set a hopeful tone for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in 2025.