This book is about Californians and others who have made long-lasting contributions to the state through bravery, persistence, and concern for their fellow citizens. Profiles include religious leaders including Billy Graham, first responders who gave their lives to protect their community, musicians who achieved special attention in the state, and others. Some are well known, others are ordinary citizens or visitors to the Golden State. Each have made life better for others. Two US Presidents and the son of another President are also profiled. The agriculture of the Central Valley in California is showcased with stories about a popular crop being harvested alongside another feature about efforts to promote the economic impact of the annual nut harvest. The author offers his own accounts of the people he has met in his fifteen years as a resident of California.