Driving Force Newsletter - August 2009

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All in the Family
Son of Legendary Hollywood Customizer Makes Own History in Sacramento

Throughout history there have been many notable father and son connections. To car enthusiasts, Dean and Kevin Jeffries have each made their mark on the hobby. One in Hollywood. The other in Sacramento.

Dean Jeffries customized television and movie vehicles in the 1960s, such as the Mantaray from “Bikini Beach,” Black Beauty from “The Green Hornet,” the Monkeemobile, and the moon buggy from “Diamonds Are Forever.”

His son, Kevin Jeffries has taken a different route to help spotlight and promote the hobby—the California State Assembly. First elected in 2006, he immediately stood out as a friend to car enthusiasts. A few months after being elected, Jeffries joined the SEMA-sponsored State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. There are currently 16 caucus members from the California Legislature, including Caucus Chairman Mike Duvall. The caucus totals close to 400 lawmakers from all 50 State Legislatures.

Jeffries serves as Vice Chairman of the Assembly Transportation Committee which oversees a large portion of bills which have an impact on the car hobby. One such bill considered earlier this year would have increased the smog check requirements for cars more than 15 years old. Jeffries urged his colleagues to oppose the measure as it would have minimal impact on air quality at the expense of car collectors.

Entire August Newsletter