[427sharpe]

I am sorry if this is repetitive, but I have been out of contact for quite some time and have just found this thread.
First, a lot has been made about 'elitist' SAAC. I have been a member since the 70's, been to most of the conventions and yes, I have seen people treated rather tersely by Kopec and Eber, as well as rank and file members. they are human, and can be difficult at times. They (all members) can ALSO be extremely helpful and generous. Just people. A lot of the consternation comes from a lack of understanding of what SAAC truly is (IMHO). It IS and WAS a club set up and run by guys with an fervent PASSION for the 'true' Shelby-American cars. I think the club made errors is expanding to the late model vehicles (Dodges, Series 1, non 2-3000 CSX and late Mustangs) because they did not have the PASSION for those cars. This is the root of the lamented 'elitism', again only IMHO. I see owners show up with cars (a lot of clones fall here) and expect to be treated as the owner of an original and that is just not going to happen around a bunch of guys who have carried their passion (and SHELBY) on their back for 30+ years. I think this is the basis of the rift with CS---a lack of commitment on the new stuff which happens to be CS's wheat bread and low fat margarine at this time. CS's feelings got snubbed, and he responded.
I suppose the question for Amy (who I respect more and more, BTW) is whether or not she feels the NEW CS owners will value their cars as much as the VINTAGE owners do. Because if they don't, it really IS all about the Benjamins. And CS certainly makes a lot more green on the new than the old! I personally feel the new owners will not. the CS Mustangs of today will be relegated to history...just as the 60's models were. Except I do not see many people lining up to fanatically craft them back to oe as many of us did with 60's models like my 'hold over' '66. It is sad that 'we all can't just get along', but that is the way it is. I am a bit surprised that CS's grandson's site (Shelby Forums) has not figured in this, but I feel sure that SAAC WILL continue as the main force to the 60's cars (Cobras & GT's) while Team Shelby will fall to the newer models. Ultimately I see TS going the way of the Dodge club, it will wither when new competition comes along (say, Camaro and Challenger clubs?) and the CS cars are not the hot (only?) ticket in town anymore. Just gut feeling.
And, Amy, I know you have been the designated whipping boy (girl?) here on this, but many of us cretins respect you for the work you have done at SA and the forthrightness you display by showing up and taking it with good humor (usually). Good luck with your projects!