i got them out! once you can reach them by removing pretty much your lower dash, there's two tangs on either side of the black ducting that hold it as well as 2 grey tangs on the bottom of either side. there is also a spring-like clip that holds them in place...
to remove mine, i pushed upwards with my fingers on one side on the bottom tang(about 5 o'clock). after you get it to move about 1/8" push in the black tang at 3 o'clock. after it pops out a little, then do the same to the other side (7 and 9 o'clock). from this point, you should be able to pull the assembly off your dash. the assembly comes apart into the tubing, the fins, and the silver trim. i'm painting right now, but i'll be sure to post pics when they're done.
props to FinChevy for finding the info.<thumbsup>
