Considered an "Industry Legend",[1] Gejeian was the organizer of the Autorama, one of the largest custom car shows in North America, held annually in Fresno, California.

[6] After Gejeian graduated high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy and participated in World War II.

Returning from the war, Gejeian desired to build the fastest hot rod in Fresno.

[5][7] Blackie Gejeian, along with George Barris, Richard Peters, then built the Ala Kart.

The chassis work was done Peters and Gejeian at their Fresno, California shop, while the body and styling was by Barris.

[6][9] The name was derived from George Barris, an auto customizer, opening a menu and Blackie seeing the phrase Ala Carte on the top of it.

[11] Ala Kart featured an entirely chromed chassis, including springs, driveshaft, and rearend (following Gejean's previous car's example).

[14] It was also reproduced by the Danbury Mint, reissued four times due to demand, plus a Fiftieth Anniversary edition.

[15] Ala Kart also made numerous film appearances, usually in the background of drive-in shots, before its importance to rodders and customizers was recognized.