(CLAIR) – The day starts early this Saturday morning in Simi Valley. For more than 10 years, The Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise, a group of dedicated community volunteers, have been responsible for maintaining one of southern California’s happiest local landmarks, Happy Face Hill. A giant smiley emoji that has become the city’s symbol of happiness for residents and visitors alike.
At around 7am, friends, family and neighbors come together at Jerry’s Coffee Shop, the designated base camp for the Happy Face crew. They chat, share stories, and sip coffee as they gear up for the day ahead.
The group of about 8 to 10 prepare to make their way to The Hill. They load their cars and trucks with weed-whackers, shovels, rakes, spray cans and all the necessary tools.
The hill is not easily accessible with no real trails to follow. But the Rotary Club volunteers are undeterred, and they set out on their journey, determined to keep the smile on Happy Face Hill shining bright.
The incline is steep, and the hill is considered dangerous, but the volunteers take their time. They help each other, following a carefully structured process to ensure the work is done safely and efficiently. They remove weeds and dead grass, clean up the edges, and apply an eco-friendly natural dye to the ground. They also check the solar lights and remove any litter or waste that should not be on the hill. Slowly but surely, the 150-foot smiley face comes to life.
The volunteers chat and joke as they work, but they also take time to admire the stunning Simi Valley scenery. After about an hour and a half, the task is finally complete. The volunteers stand back and admire their handiwork, a giant happy face that brings joy to all who see it.
They pack up their tools and make their way back down the hill.
“At the end of the day, it’s so nice to look up and see that the smile has been restored,” said Bill Klepper, one of the group’s longest serving volunteers.
“Happy Face Hill is more than just a landmark, it’s a symbol of happiness and positivity in the community,” Klepper said.
He hopes Happy Face Hill will continue to bring smiles to all who see it for years to come.
