80’s TV Star Is Coming To Illinois

A television superstar from the 80's is making an appearance in Illinois this weekend.

Some of my favorite TV shows of all time were ones I watched as a kid.

The quality seemed better, but there were fewer choices back then. That was probably a factor on why I thought they were so good.

There was "Knight Rider," "Dukes of Hazzard," "A Team," and "The Incredible Hulk" to name a few.

One that really stood out to me was "CHiPs." It was so exciting. They wrecked dozens of cars each episode. Lots of action. Good guys vs bad guys. Plus, it aired at a time that I didn't have to worry about going to bed.

The two stars, "Ponch and John," were really cool. It would have been amazing as a kid to have met one of them. Unfortunately, that opportunity never came up.

I'm no longer a kid and I haven't seen the show in years, but I still think it would be cool to meet one of them.

Well, I think my childhood dream might finally come true. One of them will be appearing at the Marigold Festival in Pekin, Illinois.

According to pjstar.com,

"The theme of this year’s festival is “Marigolds on Patrol” to celebrate law enforcement." 

"The celebrity guest of the festival touts one of the most prominent portrayals of law enforcement on television."

"Erik Estrada, the actor from the hit show “CHiPs,” will be the guest this year."

"He will appear on both Saturday and Sunday at the festival. He will sign autographs and take pictures from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday at the Pekin Pavilion. He will also participate in a Q&A session from 1 to 1:30 p.m. Sunday at the Pavilion."

Video: "CHiPs Intro Theme"

Are you kidding me? Ponch from CHiPs is going to be within driving distance from Rockford. I think you have to go check that out.

Video: Tribute To Ponch From CHiPs

If you had a chance to meet a celebrity from your childhood, who would it be?

Video: Illinois State Head Football Coach Brock Spack