A large economy does not necessarily equal a great economy. California's debt situation is horrid. The only improvement came from the way that they handle pensions and accounting.
And don't forget California's issues with water. They are very much dependent on other states.
I would be happy...
Shatner is a big draw, still. Trekkies flock to see him. I'm sure the Red Cross would have understood if he cancelled, but that could crush the event. Good on him for seeing through on his commitments.
Was he preparing the food or taking food from restaurants and pre-packaged things? I got in trouble in San Francisco a few time for passing out McDonalds and Del Taco stuff. I would also pass out protein bars and soft granola bars (many homeless don't have good enough teeth for crunchy granola...