Bob Hope, nearing 100, celebrated at Reagan Library

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (AP) _ Entertainer Bob Hope is getting an early 100th birthday present: He's being honored at the shrine dedicated to longtime friend Ronald Reagan. <br><br>An exhibit featuring

Friday, February 14th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (AP) _ Entertainer Bob Hope is getting an early 100th birthday present: He's being honored at the shrine dedicated to longtime friend Ronald Reagan.

An exhibit featuring rare photographs, video and film clips, and letters from the families of military personnel Hope visited on overseas USO tours opens Monday at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

``They really brought dad's life to life,'' daughter Linda Hope said Thursday after touring the ``Bob Hope: American Patriot'' exhibit. ``It's very exciting, and in such perfect company here at the library.''

Former first lady Nancy Reagan will welcome Hope's wife, Dolores, for a personal tour through the ``Bob Hope: American Patriot'' exhibit Saturday night.

The museum's celebration of Hope's 100 years continues through June 7. Hope, who turns 100 on May 29, has been secluded at his suburban Los Angeles home in recent years.

``He's hanging in there,'' his daughter said. ``He's determined to live to 100-plus.''