What’s happenin' everyone! As the fall season drags in, the cutting torches light up for a jump start on hopeful projects for the coming year. I always enjoy hearing about the preparation for building a vehicle and what it will take to meet that set debut date. Constantly looking for that upper edge against the competition with just one more body modification, or reasoning with the next enthusiast on laying frame or rocker. Making the trips to every hot event throughout the summer and hitting up all the vendors for the latest products to hit the shelves. Roaming the shows with a stack of pictures in hand showing off the in-depth construction of their creation and digging for that final touch to set their ride off from the rest. This never ending process drives the next enthusiast to take that extra step in making a difference in this awesome hobby.

On the cover this month we present you with JOHNNY Cash in his 1998 Acura Integra representing Diversified Ridez. For the past 2 years JOHNNY Cash has hit some of the hottest events around the world showing off the immaculate detail of his one of kind ride. I was able to catch up with JOHNNY at ITB in Indianapolis this past August to capture one elegant cover feature. Throughout the one year it took to create this jaw dropping display, his intentions were to break out and “spank some ass”, needless to say he got 'r done! JOHNNY says it must go though - the For Sale sign has been slapped on the window to start his next project, if interested contact me at bigwood@gaugemagazine.com.

To top off JOHNNY'S ride we bring you the gorgeous October Gauge Girl Michelle Mason. Hold on guys… even with that stunning smile and awesome body she still finds time to work some wrenches on her Turbo Talon and Street Bikes. While in school she has been pursuing a career in modeling. Be sure not to miss Michelle’s sexy Gauge Girl Feature.

We roll into this month’s event coverage with Freelance Photographer Toby Mosholder and I got the low down on the 5th Annual Southern Showdown. The event was held at the Bullit County Fairgrounds in Louisville, KY on the weekend of July 24-25 2004. This awesome event presented by Cool Cars definitely brings non stop action with its impressive display of their high flying hydraulic competition vehicles and live entertainment throughout the weekend. For more information on this event, visit www.coolcars.org.

Part II of one of the hottest events in the Midwest is back - that’s right: ITB Indy. I’ve received hundreds of e-mails concerning the release of the ever popular Part II of the 11th Annual event that goes on every year in Indianapolis, IN. For more information or to register your vehicle for next year, visit www.importandtruckbash.com.