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During the annual Mustang and Ford Round-up, Larry Dobbs, the founder of Mustang Monthly was awarded the Lee Iacocca award for this work in the auto industry. The award is given to recognize outstanding merit for those involved in the automotive industry.
Rick Schmidt, the president for the National Parts Depot was impressed by Dobbs’ “passion for maintaining an American tradition. We’re seeking to recognize special people who have contributed greatly, not only to our hobby but to society as well,” Rick stated. “Larry fit those criteria.”
Dobbs first started Mustang Monthly back in 1978. He quit his job and convinced his banker to give him a second mortgage. The venture turned out to be quite profitable and Dobbs has never looked back. Lee Iacocca was once a president at Ford and offers this award every year. He is credited with his efforts in developing the Ford Mustang, making this a true honor for Dobbs.
Mustang Monthly is available in print and specializes in helping Mustang owners fully customize their cars. Each magazine is filled with DIY tips on repainting, engine work and much more. The magazine has developed a very faithful readership over the past 30 years and Dobbs is largely responsible for keeping the love of this classic car alive.
Currently, Dobbs publishes the only magazine that is devoted entirely to Mustang hobbyists. Their website currently offers numerous features available to non-paying visitors and subscribers. They have photos of classic Mustangs, articles on how to customize your Mustang and much more. It is a popular spot for those looking to restore a classic Mustang to its former glory.
Dobbs commented on the honor, stating, “Before I met Lee three years ago for our exclusive interview in Mustang Monthly ("Iacocca Speaks Out," May '04, p.18), my perception of the retired auto executive was different than it is today. I saw Lee as a corporate big-shot who would never make time for a working-stiff automotive writer like me. It was the interview I never believed I'd get because I was told repeatedly by Lee and his Chrysler handlers for the better part of 20 years that he wasn't going to discuss the Mustang. In the latter part of 2004, he not only granted me the interview, he chatted with me in his home for two hours longer than planned, discussing everything from the Mustang to most of the challenges facing the world today.”
Dobbs concluded, “Lee remains well grounded and close to his roots as a direct descendent of Italian immigrants. He has never forgotten the value of hard work, and at 82 years old, he continues to practice these beliefs. Fame and fortune have never gone to his head, and of all the treasures he has amassed during a lifetime of successes, it's his family he holds closest.”
The Lee Iacocca Foundation uses these awards as a way to raise funding for their diabetes research. So far, they have raised over $230 million in the past twenty-two years.
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