-=*|MonkeY.BikE MEDAN|*=-

When many of us think about low riders and those who are into low riding, we think about as being gang members, criminals, or trouble-makers.
The stereotype is that all low riders have nothing good to offer society.

But an association of low riders in the South Bay are trying to change the negative image that the public has of low riders by promoting positive changes in the community.
The Lowrider Community of San Diego, an organization made up of 15 different car clubs, was created in October 2004 to improve the quality of life in our communities and to bridge the gap between local car clubs, law enforcement, and community members, said Mayra Nuñez, community liaison for the Lowrider Community of San Diego.
“Lowriders want to be accepted by the community. They want to change the bad name, the bad reputation,” she said. “They are part of the community.”
And as proof that lowriders are working men and women who care for their families and their communities, on Sunday, November 6, the Lowrider Community of San Diego held a car exhibit event to raise funds for the football team at Chula Vista High School.
It was a family event where 80 cars and bikes were in exhibition.
Nuñez said that they were expecting about 200 people to show up. The goal: Raise at least $500 for the football team.
Ron Brady, member of The Crowd car club, said that he was supporting the event because it would benefit children in the community.
“I’m here to make a difference,” he said. “Our schools need our help.”
Brady added that lowriding is no different than any other hobby. He said that most of the guys at the car clubs have never been in gangs or crime.
“I want to be able to go places without people staring at me,” said Brady, who added that he works had to give his children a good education.
Jorge Hernandez, member of Just II Lowrider Car Club, said that when lowriders unite, they can be a positive force in the community.
Some of the Chula Vista High School football team said they felt good that they had the support of the Lowrider Community of San Diego.
“It’s good to know that the community actually cares about students,” said 10th. grader Oscar Perez.
This isn’t the only fundraiser the Lowrider Community of San Diego has done.
In fact, Nuñez said they do two fundraisers and community events every month.
She added that the Lowrider Community of San Diego consists of local community members who volunteer in the community by supporting youth programs, providing out-reach to at-risk youth, assisiting the elderly and actively participating in worthy causes.
She said that the organization is endorsed by National City Police Chief Adolfo Gonzales and National City Councilmember Louie Natividad.
The City of Chula Vista is also endorsing the organization, including Deputy Mayor Patty Davis, Nuñez said.
The Lowrider Community of San Diego invites the community to attend their next monthly meeting on Monday, November 14, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
It is held at 1200 National City Blvd., in the Community Room.
For more information about the Lowrider Community of San Diego, call (619) 778-1227.