Santa Barbara area-resident Carol Burnett is among 13 new inductees into the California Hall of Fame, which was created by First Lady Maria Shriver four years ago, it was announced on Tuesday.
The names of the 2009 inductees were released by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ms. Shriver and were announced by Pat Splinter, museum trustee and the chair of the California Hall of Fame committee.
The California Hall of Fame recognizes and honors legendary people who represent the Golden State's innovative spirit and have made their mark on history.
Ms. Burnett said she is excited about her induction and expressed her fondness for California.
"I love California. My fondest memory as a kid was climbing the Hollywood sign," she said in a statement. "I'm thrilled to be honored by the state I love."
Other 2009 inductees are former Intel CEO Andrew Grove, former Governor and U.S. Senator Hiram Johnson, decathlete and philanthropist Rafer Johnson, industrialist Henry J. Kaiser, peace activist and philanthropist Joan Kroc, filmmaker George Lucas, football commentator John Madden, gay rights activist Harvey Milk, artist Fritz Scholder, author Danielle Steel, fitness and bodybuilding pioneer Joe Weider and Air Force test pilot General Chuck Yeager.
The hall of fame celebrates those who have made achievements in areas including science, philanthropy, sports, business, entertainment, literature, fitness, technology, activism, and politics. However these people are not recognized solely for their achievements in one field or talent, but also for the impact they have made upon the world with their overall courage, determination and creativity. This year's inductees will join the 38 hall-of-famers who have already been inducted into the hall of fame for their efforts and achievements.
The induction ceremony will be held on Tuesday, December 1, at the California Museum in Sacramento. During the ceremony, Mr. Schwarzenegger and Ms. Shriver will present the Spirit of California medals.
Mr. Schwarzenegger commented that "the California Hall of Fame celebrates our most influential women and men, and honors them for their drive, willingness to take risks, dedication and success in touching the lives of millions of people -- not just in this state but around the world."
Said Ms. Shriver, "the perseverance and passion of one person can have a lasting impact in the lives of people...." She added that the combination of talent and unfailing drive of an individual has the potential to create "a legacy of change, hope and empowerment."
"Each individual inducted into the California Hall of Fame symbolizes the biggest hearts, the greatest drive and the deepest inspiration. It's an honor to induct these extraordinary individuals ... "
The California Museum's Executive director, Claudia French, commented that "being selected for this award is a distinction of great honor ... reserved for the best and the brightest."
The California Hall of Fame mission is extended through its Dreamer's Challenge program, which dares young people to dream by recognizing innovative and creative thinking; The program awards two $5,000 scholarships to high school seniors who best illustrate how they would improve and change the world using any medium available at their discretion.
For more information on the California Hall of Fame including videos, inductee biographies and to view images, visit CaliforniaMuseum.org.
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