What do Harrison Ford and George Takei, broadcast journalist Maria Shriver, the late baseball star Tony Gwynn, and author Isabelle Allende have in common? They are the newest members of the California Hall of Fame.
The other members of the class who will be inducted at a Nov. 30 ceremony in Sacramento are former Secretary of Defense William Perry, Tower Records founder Russ Solomon and artist Corita Kent.
“These individuals exemplify the unique and boundless creativity of California,” Gov. Jerry Brown said Monday. “Their work has enriched the lives of others and remains an inspiration to all Californians.”
An exhibition of artifacts highlighting the lives and achievements of this Hall of Fame class will open Dec. 1 at the California Museum in Sacramento.
Shriver created the Hall of Fame in 2006 to honor Californians who have made history. Other members include former President Ronald Reagan; Brown’s late father, former Gov. Edmund G. (Pat) Brown Sr.; former Chief Justice of the United States Earl Warren and Walt Disney.
Shriver said she was “deeply humbled and grateful” to be selected.
“When we created the Hall of Fame 10 years ago, I never dreamt I would be honored alongside so many people I’ve been awed by and admire,” Shriver said.
“Like millions of others, I came to California to create my own life and fulfill my dreams. I hope that my course in life might inspire others, just as I’ve been inspired by California and those who have gone before me.”
Takei, best known for his portrayal of Mr. Sulu on the original “Star Trek” series and the first six “Star Trek” movies, said being selected for the Hall of Fame was “an honor beyond words.”
—City News Service