“CHiPs” (Culture): Over the summers, I am in some out of the way places and often see some out of the way cultural things from days past. I doubt many will recall this TV show “CHiPs” (1977-1983). It was about two youngish motor (motorcycle) officers patrolling the highways around LA- Frank Poncherello, played by Erik Estrada and Jon Baker. Robert Pine rounded out the cast playing. Sgt Joe Getraer Nobody ever could recall Baker’s real name (Larry Wilcox) so they just called him “The Blonde Guy.” Estrada was the real pin up guy and adored every young girl’s wall back then- right next her poster of Shaun Cassidy. I’ve seen this feel good show many times this summer and really do like it. I liked it back then too. Each episode saw a compilation of incidents, ranging from the humorous (e.g., a naked stranded motorist) to criminal investigations (such as hijackings) and tragic incidents (such as a fiery multi-car pile-up with multiple deaths.) Other aspects of Ponch and Jons daily work were highlighted as well; the social lives of both officers (they were both single) often provided the lighter moments. On occasion, Ponch and Jon were assisted by a female Chippie at first, the very beautiful Cindy Cahill; and later, the more wholesome Bonnie Clark. Unlike its replacement series “Miami Vice” this one was much more PG-rated. Time goes by and Ponch and Jon are now pushing 70 years of age. Larry Wilcox was actually the first choice for Sonny Crockett of “Miami Vice” (he turned it down & it went to Don Johnson) . Wilcox made getting married a divorced his career path going forward and dropped out of sight. Estrada actually became a singing star and then … guess what… yep a real motorcycle police officer. He is a full time deputy sheriff in Bedford County, Virginia. Q: Should you hop in your muscle car and step on it to get a first hand view of “CHiP?” in your rear view mirror? A: Yes and to enjoy THESE CHiPs you don’t need Pace Picante sauce but a radar detector may well be in order. Here is the famous opening scene from each episode, Old Timers like myself will have warm flashbacks when they see it again: https://youtube/watch?v=VYKdayl7BHM
Posted on: Wed, 01 Oct 2014 17:19:19 +0000
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