Lowrider Magazine was very proud to honor and induct four legendary men and their legacies into the Lowrider Hall of Fame at our second annual awards banquet. This prestigious event took place at the Anaheim Doubletree Inn, where more than 350 family members, friends, club members and lowrider enthusiasts from all over came to witness the gratitude that was shown towards the 2007 honorees.
Thump Records' Bill Walker, who has been a part of the lowrider scene for the last 20 years, also participated in support of the Lowrider Hall of Fame, and as a sponsor of this dressed to impress historical event. This 2007 enshrinement included four very unique and powerful individuals who had reservations for the Hall reserved a long time ago.
Ricardo Alvarado of Oldies Car club was presented with the Leadership Honor for his efforts in upholding his club's high standards. Ted Wells of Professionals C.C. and Old School Hydraulics handled the Craftsmanship Award for the years of custom hydraulic work that can still be seen in the pages of LRM. Jesse Valadez from the Imperials took home the Lifetime Achievement Honor that was earned through the help of his legendary "Gypsy Rose" lowrider. The newest award or recognition that the Lowrider Hall of Fame Committee handed out went to past Groupe C.C. president Joey Abeyta, and various members of Groupe accepted the Memorial Honor in his name.
These four men built our foundation, and helped structure lowriding into the strong multi-million dollar entity that it is today. And for their accomplishments, these men were flanked by car clubs that came in droves to pay respect for the impact they've made in the lives of many in the lowriding world. Rollerz Only, Duke's, Elite, Tovar's, Lifestyle, Uce and Majestics, to name a few, all joined the recipients respective representing car clubs-Oldies, Professionals, Imperials and Groupe. It was also good to see past staff members Marco Patino and Dick DeLoach coming out to support the event.
Cocktail hour started off at 6 p.m. as clubs mingled and interacted with each other before the dinner and awards presentation got under way. Once the doors opened, Kid J took care of the music and entertainment, and Mike Karsting of Lowrider Events chimed in as master of the raffled gift awards ceremonies that continued throughout the evening.
Then four legendary men or their legacies were up to the podium to receive their identifying plaque awards and ceremonial rings. During the acceptance speeches, video collections of memories past and present were shown, as Hall of Fame Committee members, "Texas Ed" Zamorran and Richard Ochoa were on hand to present the honors.
The acceptance speeches were heartwarming. Some thanked their family, friends and clubs, while others took time to honor their fallen members who helped put their club where it stands today. A moment of silent tribute was also paid to Julio Ruelas, who was one of the first to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Past recipients in attendance included Bob Mercado, and Julio Ruelas' wife, Carolina, and their daughter Patricia. Mario De Alba, Sr. was also present.
This chartered membership has now grown to 10 immortalized individuals in three years, and this special event continues to grow from year to year. We hope to see you at the Hall of Fame banquet next year, as the curiosity also grows as to whom out of the next group of great nominees on the Hall of Fame Committee's list will be the next inductees into the class of '08. Thanks to all who attended.