Erik Estrada is the latest celebrity to be added to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Erik, who recently starred in the reality show “Armed and Famous” but is best known for playing Officer Frank ‘Ponch’ Poncherello on “CHiPs,” attended the ceremony with wife, Nanette Mirkovich, daughter, Francesca, comedian Paul Rodriguez, and several real life CHiPs (California Highway Patrol officers). He said the recognition was great because it not only fulfilled his dream to be a success in the entertainment business, but also represented his childhood dream of being a police officer. In addition to acting, Estrada is also a crusader for such charities as D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education), the Police Athletic League, B.E.A.T. Arthritis, Big Brothers, Special Olympics, AIDS Project Los Angeles, March of Dimes, Project Inform (which provides information on the diagnosis, treatment and research of HIV disease), and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Estrada received the 2,336th star on the famed Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Walk of Fame received its first star (for Joanne Woodward) on February 9, 1960. Since then, it has become a favorite destination of tourists visiting Hollywood. Stars line the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. The five-pointed stars are awarded to people who make significant accomplishments in five entertainment fields. One of five different category emblems may appear on a star: motion picture camera (to honor contribution to the film industry), television set (to honor contribution to the television industry), phonograph record (to honor contribution to the music industry), radio microphone (to honor contribution to the broadcast radio industry), and twin comedy/tragedy masks (to honor contribution to the live theatre). It is possible for a celebrity to be honored with more than one star. But, Gene Autry is the only celebrity to be honored with a star in each category.
Each May, names are submitted and in June, the Walk of Fame committee selects the honorees. Each ceremony is led by the honorary Mayor of Hollywood, Johnny Grant.