Been discussed offline...
Bear in mind that at DVSF III, there was a completely free car donated by Kirkham (with the help of others). Seems like the auction was significantly larger. We had lots of free stuff this year, great meals, etc... all part of the $30K.
I know none of us know what Ed sold the DV car to CF for, but keep in mind whatever that number was cut hard into a raffle that I don't think got as much interest this year as last year, for whatever reason.
In any event, we can be glad we raised the $12K. If you're not satisfied with that (I'm personally a little disappointed), I think if there is a DVSF V, we need to have more involvement from the masses. (read: More involvement from the masses needs to be allowed).
I may take some heat for posting this, but if you're reading, bear in mind the context and meaning here. That being that I think Ed Combs effectively reached his own personal limit as to what he can do to make the event what it is. Imagine that, he is a human.
But I think while I may be the one who thinks out loud, I'm not the only one who felt like if you weren't part of a very select few, you weren't in a position to help out for DVSF IV. I know that it is easy to get entrenched in something like this and want to "go it alone" (or with the help of your family, etc...)
Whether or not there is a "DVSF V", whether or not it is in London, whether or not it is the third weekend in June.......we need to have everyone feel welcome to be involved in the planning, donating, giving, etc... phases.
Just remember how quickly a few people had the Cleveland Fling in order. Had the "ok" been given, how quickly the Kansas City Fling would have been in order.
Cobra owners are mighty resourceful people. Leave them to their devices, stuff gets done. Would I love to be back in London in June '05? You bet. But I would prefer to see an event that is run for the people, by the people, pooling the massive resources of all, wherever it may end up...and whenever.
This year, Ed's greatest fears came true. The Fling became bigger than the people. That wasn't so the first 3 years.
JP
PS - My above post reads kind of negatively because I'm addressing the concerns that seem to be shared by many: "Why did we only raise X? Last year we raised Y. We had more cars this year. What gives?" I still had a really great time, and I know everyone else did, too. It was a great event, and my hat is off (as it was right after) to Ed and crew for putting it together. To Rick Dorman for organizing the Poker Run. To the great people I've only met on here and finally got to share a beer with in person.
Just trying to do my best, above, to answer the questions I know a lot of us are asking....