West Coast Kustoms' Santa Maria Cruisin' Nationals - Paso No Mo

A few years ago only we'd have made stern statements regarding the few '54 and First series '55 Chevys we encountered...

...Today, we just can't say that anymore, especially with evidence such as these.

Between sets by the Dynotones and Vicky Tafoya and the Big Beat Band on the Fairpark's Center Stage, we had a chance to check out the trick metalwork in progress on this F-100 currently under construction at Dagmar Customs.

On the opposite side of the stage and bleachers, we ran into this nice Suburban belonging to Robert Villareal.

And if you had any thoughts about the "shop truck" fad wearing out (no pun intended), think again, as evidenced by Donovan Scrimshire's '56 big-window.

On the flip side of the fade and suede trend, take a gander at this metallic gold gem about to go under the brush of Bakersfield pinstriper Tommy, aka Diablo Artworks.

Many moons-and at least one staff member-ago, we featured a dual "nude" C-10 cover. Well, at least one of 'em is all grown up and wearing a full outfit of paint now!

And this, folks, is what the former would look like had he finished school and not decided to run off with a punk rock band! All kidding aside, whether they're mild or wild, it's hard to beat a mid-'60s Fleetside.

Speaking of wild, that's probably the best way to describe this "flippin'" '50s Chevy! Along with tilting the bed and a one-piece front end, the pearl blue beauty has also been treated to a lowered lid.

Though both listed in the Wild Custom category, a chopped top is probably the only thing Chris Mageno's '49 has in common with the previous 3100-and that's quite all right with us.

Stepping away from the AD Chevys (if only for a bit), we give you Richie Valles' '59 El Camino hailing from Burbank, CA. While mild looking at first, Richie's Elco features some mighty fine custom paintwork.

OK, back to the ADs-the one we kicked this whole thing off with, to be precise! The Gambino Kustoms stable had many a cool Chevy on hand; among them, Veronica Galvez's nice little '48 five-window.