Lowrider Hall of Fame

The Lowrider Hall of Fame explores the Lowrider Movement and recognizes the individuals who have promoted the advancement, improvement and stability of a lifestyle that has revolutionized not only car customizing, but also the way that we live and ride. Our awards honor the best in the business and this past year marked the very first official ceremony of what is the beginning of a legendary event which will be both timeless and essential.The highly anticipated first annual Hall of Fame awards ceremony/banquet/dinner & dance was held at the Quiet Cannon in Montebello, California, this past September, and the turnout was spectacular. With representation from major car clubs and individuals from across the nation, more than 300 attendees gathered in celebration of the three inductees and the recognition of their achievements.
The Quiet Cannon was chosen for its elegance as well as its place in lowrider history. Many Los Angeles-based car clubs, including Lifestyle C.C., have hosted events at the Quiet Cannon through the years, and, one year back in the early '90s, Alberto Lopez threw a special Christmas party for the Lowrider Magazine staff and honored area lowriders at the upscale restaurant/banquet room.Organized by Lowrider Magazine, the Lowrider Hall of Fame would have not been possible if it had not been for our sponsor Lowrider Car Care, and the help, influence and expertise of "Texas Ed" Zamarron and "Ranchero Richard" Ochoa. The duo got together and helped organize the logistics of the event, as well as the rules, regulations and voting procedures for the Hall of Fame.
The Quiet Cannon affair was a blast. Following an excellent dinner of filet mignon and chicken, each of the three winners--Mario DeAlba, Joe Ray and Nick Hernandez--were featured in a video presentation, which was then followed by their respective acceptance speeches. All three of this year's HOF inductees clearly appreciated the magnitude of the occasion and had to do their best to keep their emotions in check. All three honorees received custom HOF rings sponsored by Lowrider Car Care.Following the awards presentation, everyone enjoyed dancing and listening to the versatile music of the live band Cold Duck. There were also very nice door prizes. The recipient of a new television remarked that the price of admission was "well worth it anyway," but especially so after winning the raffle. Now, he didn't have to go out that weekend and buy his son a TV like he had promised.
In attendance at this first annual HOF banquet were two members of first class of inductees from the previous year. Bob Mercado and Julio Ruelas joined in on the festivities, while the third honoree, "El Larry" Gonzales, was unable to attend.
The first annual Hall of Fame banquet was widely acknowledged as a big success. Guests commented on the great food and ambiance, as well as the honor of being a part of history. There was definitely a feeling that those not in attendance had missed out on a once-in-a-lifetime event. Hopefully, the Hall of Fame dinner won't be a once-in-a-lifetime event. The success of the evening bodes well for future Hall of Fame banquets.