American Legion recognizes outstanding Loomis citizens

Six members of the Loomis community were recognized last week by a local veterans organization for their exemplary service. Loomis American Legion Post 775 held its second annual Employee & Citizen of the Year Awards Ceremony Oct. 22 at Loomis Memorial Hall. Honored as Employees of the Year were Placer County Sheriff's Office Deputy Adam Ottinger, South Placer Fire District firefighters Joe Stephens and Taylor Bromley, Town of Loomis employee Christy Consolini, and Loomis Union School District employee Amy Cima. (Bromley was the 2025 award recipient but was unable to attend last year's ceremony). Citizen of the Year award went to Keith Byers, owner of LIG Rentals. "You know that saying, Small Town, Big Family. You're like the cool uncle. You bring the fun," Amanda Standley, director of the Loomis Basin Chamber of Commerce said in introducing Byers. From sponsoring local youth sports and supporting every local non-profit, to their work with Operation Wake Surf for military personnel, veterans and first responders, Byers and LIG Rentals are always finding ways to give back, Standley told the room full of veterans, awardees and local residents. "It's hard to find a community event, organization or cause that they haven't supported in some way," she added. "Keith, your generosity and commitment to this community haven't gone unnoticed, and we're proud to recognize you tonight." LUSD's Cima, an English Learner teacher, was praised in a letter from Superintendent Erika Sloane and read by Thea Patrick, district director of curriculum and instruction, as being someone who goes above and beyond the parameters of her job to help not only students but teachers and families as well. "Our district reclassifies approximately 30–40% of our English Learner students each year," Sloane wrote in her letter. "That is a remarkable level of student success, especially given that Amy is our only full-time English Learner teacher serving the district. Her impact is significant. "But what makes Amy so special is that she doesn't stop with her students. She is a trusted resource and support for teachers and staff, regularly sharing her expertise and helping colleagues better serve our English Learner students and families. She contributes to professional development and is always looking for ways to help others grow." Loomis Mayor Jan Clark-Crets introduced Planning Director Christy Consolini as someone who holds one of the most challenging jobs in the town. "She works at the center of complex issues, balancing the interests of residents, developers, elected officials and state requirements that often limit local control," Clark-Crets shared. "Beyond her technical expertise, Christy is an outstanding leader. She offers her team guidance, encouragement and support. She leads by example, earning the respect of her colleagues through her work ethic, fairness and willingness to step in wherever needed." Sgt. Chris Fisher of the Placer County Sheriff's Office praised Ottinger's professionalism and dedication as a school resource officer at Del Oro High School, and South Placer Fire District Chief Darin Snedeker introduced firefighters Stephens and Bromley as deeply committed to serving the community.