By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez
As originally published in Texas Border Business newsprint edition November 2018
Las Vegas, Nevada – Juan Francisco Ochoa, better known as “Don Pancho,” is now part of the Las Vegas, Nevada “Walk of Stars.”
On September 19, 2018, the City of Las Vegas unveiled the Star dedicated to the entrepreneur, restaurant owner, philanthropist and founder of “El Pollo Loco,” Don Pancho who expressed his joy and surprise for this homage said,
“When I found out, I did not believe it, it is an honor given to singers, artists, so I didn’t believe it at first, but they explained to me that research had taken place and I was going to be the first Latin businessman to be awarded the star. The first Hispanic Entrepreneur and I felt really proud and delighted.”
Don Pancho has always credited his family for all the support, and this occasion was no exception.
“All the support from my wife Flérida, even before we opened “El Pollo Loco” I had her full support. Sometimes she nags me for different reasons, but in the end, she is always supportive. Also, my brothers have been a fundamental part of everything that I do, especially in “El Pollo Loco” and my children now with ‘El Taco Palenque and Palenque Grill’,” Don Pancho stated.
His brothers and sons expressed their feelings of pride towards don Pancho for being the recipient of this award.
Jorge Ochoa, his brother, said, “This is an emotional, important and momentous occasion for all of us. It makes me and all of Pancho’s brothers proud to watch him receive this important and special homage.”
Pancho’s youngest son José Ochoa said, “This well-deserved award, is the result of his own hard work. We feel joy and strengthens our unity, that is why we are all excited.”
His son, Carlos Ochoa said, “It is such a pride, just like a dream… I can’t even believe it yet. I feel it is completely deserved; my father has always been someone supportive of everyone around him.”
His son Juan Francisco Ochoa, Jr. said, “It is an indescribable feeling; it is such a pride to have this successful person as a father.”
Congressman Henry Cuellar, also a guest, pointed out the importance of Don Pancho’s work.
“When we talk about immigrants who come from Mexico to the U.S., Pancho is one of the best examples of the people coming here and manage to succeed.”
After the installation of the star in Las Vegas’ Walk of the Stars, Don Pancho shared and lived this remarkable moment with family and friends.
Without a doubt, today is a day that the Ochoa family will always be proud of. Don Pancho tells the story when he started his business in a small municipality called Guasave in the state of Sinaloa, Mexico. It can also be added, that Don Pancho is an inspiration for everyone in this country and the world.
The ceremony took place at Bally’s Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. The attendees sang each nation’s anthems as a symbol of unity between both countries and celebrated the unveiling of the Star that will forever stay as part of the Walk of Stars on the Las Vegas Strip. It has been said that this area draws millions of visitors each year. Don Pancho is now part of a select group or personalities that also have a star such as Elvis Presley, Luis Miguel, and Maria Celeste Arrarás.
Don Pancho’s unique business concept established leadership in South Texas, bringing unique flavors from Sinaloa, Mexico. His success in business allows him to help countless people across the nation, making him a philanthropist at heart.
“Today is a day that I will remember for the rest of my life,” he said. “I see this star as an accomplishment that I have not done alone, but with the help of hundreds and I can sure say thousands of people including my wife, sons, brothers, grandchildren, friends and each and every staff member of El Pollo Loco, Taco Palenque, and Palenque Grill. But above all, our customers,” he finalized.
