Simi Valley is known for its low crime rate, presidential library and rocky hills around its edges.
But its most famous alumnus is a major league baseball player.
Jered Weaver, who graduated from Simi Valley High School in 2001 and has gone on to stardom as a pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, followed in the footsteps of his older brother, Jeff, who has enjoyed a nine-year major league career.
The younger Weaver talked to the Daily News about his hometown.
Question: What was it like growing up in Simi?
Answer: Quiet. It was one of the safest cities when I was growing up. You didn't have to worry about too much. There were a lot of nice people. I lived in a cul-de-sac with a bunch of nice people and there wasn't really much to get you in trouble so you just laid low. It was fun.
Q: What was your most memorable moment in Little League?
A: Two home runs in one inning. That would be I hit two in one inning.
Q: As a kid, how did your older brother shape your upbringing?
A: It was tough because we had six years (difference in age). I wasn't really around him too much but obviously he played baseball and I looked up to him in that regard and just followed in his footsteps.
Q: What was your favorite place to hang out in town?
A: Lemon Park. There were outdoor basketball courts and stuff.
Q: The Simi Valley Mall opened a few years ago. How much would your childhood
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have been different if it was built 10 years ago?
A: Not too much. My parents pretty much had me on lockdown. Early curfews, so there was not too much going out for me.
Q: Did you ever get your car washed at Lenny Dykstra's carwash in Simi Valley?
A: Yeah, a couple of times. I did run into him one time. He knew who my brother was so our conversation started off that way.
Q: When your playing days are over, will you retire to Simi Valley?
A: In the area, no doubt about it. Probably not in Simi. Westlake Village or somewhere.
