Without a doubt, HofArc’s most popular team member is Jesus Reyes Herrera, aka “Chuy.” His nickname is Spanish for Jesus. Of course, he was born on Christmas Day. He’s Santa Barbara’s most famous-wheelie-poppin’ easy rider and HofArc’s proud to have him on the team.
Away from the shop, he’s known for riding for miles on just one wheel of a super shinny silver bicycle. From East Beach to West Beach, and Cabrillo to San Roque, local’s know him as one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved local celebrities. At HofArc, he’s known for being one of the most helpful, humble and hardworking people we’ve ever met. Always one of the last ones to leave the job for the day. We can set watches with his consistency when he pokes his head into the office and asks, “Want me to lock the front gate, boss?”
It’s a pleasure to introduce Chuy, one of HofArc’s MVP all-stars.
HofArc: How long have you lived in Santa Barbara?
Chuy: I’m a longtime local Santa Barbara boy. I was born in Juarez, Mexico and moved here when I was 2 years old. I went to Lincoln, then Roosevelt elementary schools, Santa Barbara Junior High (across the street from HofArc), and Santa Barbara High.
HofArc: What type of work have you done in town?
Chuy: I’ve worked as a mason doing brick foundations, barbecue pits, and landscaping walkways and walls. It’s mostly been hard labor. Then I transitioned into working with granite and marble for a local company, Pyramid Marble Tile and Masonry.
HofArc: How about family?
Chuy: I have a large extended family with six brothers and two sisters. I have a grown daughter who lives nearby. We’re close. And I help care for my Father – he has Parkinson’s.
HofArc: Were you aware of what HofArc did before you applied for work?
Chuy: I wasn’t sure what you guys were doing… I just came in and asked for a job. God bless I was hired!
HofArc: What do you do for HofArc?
Chuy: I polish aluminum and make it shine. I also do whatever else it takes to get things done. Refinish wheels, hitches and bumpers. I also demo the trailers, patch metal, and do a lot of clean up. Once a week I organize tools and supplies. I help my fellow workers with whatever they need. Whatever needs to be done, I’ll do it.
HofArc: What’s it been like working for HofArc?
Chuy: I enjoy the work. The respect the team members have for each other is cool. We all value working safe and doing a quality job. There’s always something new to do around here. I’m never bored – not at this job. I enjoy working with the guys. We’re all good about giving and getting good advice.
HofArc: What do you do for fun and recreation?
Chuy: I like to ride my bike. I’m known for doing wheelies down State St. and along the East to West Beach bike path on Cabrillo Blvd.
HofArc: What else do you enjoy about being in Santa Barbara?
Chuy: I like the small town feel. I know a lot of people. My reputation is pretty well known in town. Everybody knows me. They call me a celebrity and a legend. I’m kinda outgoing and fun, I guess. I respect people, too.
HofArc: Any aspirations?
Chuy: I want to learn and advance in my skills here at HofArc. I like working here, for sure.
