I normally wouldn't ask this openly, but perhaps there is someone out there with a little more business sense than I. I see a real risk here, and would appreciate any input.

I have been doing some figuring, and it would cost me about $10-12K to print 2000 copies (in color), including the cost of the Ford licensing guarantee up- front money.

I plan on offering the book in hard cover, 200 pages, and hopefully most to all of it in color. It would include a DVD (of GT/CS cars, events, drag racing, and the '68 and '07 GT/CS Commercials), two registry decals, and the option of the under-hood plate (with authenticity proof via a Marti Report). The retail of this book would be close to $100 per copy.

I have a mailing list of about 900 people, of which about 500 are very active, and are probably here on this website.

I know that there is an enthusiastic "niche" market here at this website, and I do have my registry mailing list--but despite those with the passion to have a book(s), does this make sense? I know that many of you are hoping and excited for a book, but I have to consider sales beyond this (very) enthusiastic internet group--up to 2,000 copies (printing less is not economical).

Back in 1989, it took me about 6 years to sell 3200 copies. I need to sell the 2000 I propose in three years. The 1996 Edition took about five years to sell, and i ended up selling off many copies to Branda Perf. I would need to "pre-sell" at least 200 copies to make this effort worthwhile. $12K startup is not something I can afford to spend right now on what may seem like speculation.

I hate to admit it, but if this book project may not happen, if it's too much of an up-front financial burden for me (I have no interest in doing all this work for another publisher, because their payment for me to do it would be too low, and they may see the GT/CS owner/enthusiast market as too small to actually do a book like this).

thanks for any input,

Paul N.

Well with the growing rate of '07 -'08 GT/CS buyers maybe you could sale some to dealers to go with the car or even educate a buyer on the history of the car. I am sure the dealer could sale them with the car. As far as the 500 active members and I hope I am one of them we can spread the good word on the book. Because having this book with your CS adds Value.

Paul,
IN talking your book up to my Mustang owner friends, it seems that even
though they don't have CS's, they are interested in your book. Selling them
does not look like a problem to me. But its your call.

John

Paul
pm sent

Personal opinion only---. The decals and under hood plate would only be of interest (and available) to the people with a CS. With a 200 page book and DVD, you're going to be competing with other coffee table books in the $25-$50 price range. If I was going to do it myself, I'd have two options-one with the decal and plate, maybe 750 copies and one without, and see if you could bring the price down to a more competitive level. If you need to make the larger quantity of plates and decals, I would offer them separately. People with multiple cars could have the option of buying a book and extra plates or worn/damaged ones could be replaced in the future, but I'd go the minimum quantity because authentic cars are not that many anymore. If the DVD is adding significantly to the cost, I'd drop it. Just my .02 worth.

Steve

Paul,

Printing costs- How can you get this done for less than the current $ number? If this is the absolute driving issue, maybe scale back on the goodies, even if some of the book is in b/w. And as others have suggested, offer the other goodies to the hard-core fan base (us). Or find a cheaper way to publish.

Thinking way outside the box- Just offer the book in digital form (in PDF) and let folks print their own. I'm sure there are ways to lock down licensing on downloads. Can Kinko's do binding?

Another thing to consider is the timeliness of this- the '07 and '08s are here NOW. If you are going to get this out there, it's got to get out soon.

Come up with a plan A, B, C etc.

my .02 cents ;-)

-Jeff

I would think that outside of the GT/CS community, perhaps the Mustang (MCA) judging community and maybe the Shelby community may have some interest in this book if it were introduced to them ... If Ford is still capitalizing on the new CS, and if your book has info on the new CS, perhaps Ford maybe interested also (to offer and sell in the dealerships' stores) ...

I think there would be a limited market for the "Deluxe" version at $100. I would buy a couple and I'm sure there are others that would, as well. But you'd probably have a hard time selling 2000. Could you offer a limited number of this version as well as a less expensive version?

If you look at the price of your original books on ebay. The interest in the original CS's and the amount of interest generated by the new CS's that you stated would be included in the book. I am sure you would. I know that many people to include myself would definetly preorder a book to help with the start up cost. I know it is somewhat of a niche market but using Mustange Monthly and other media outlets to "float" this idea of yours will surely generate a lot of interest. Good luck with this endeavor and count me in. I purchased at GT/CS in 1990 spent 4 years restoring it, sold it and bought a 69 Shelby. Although I have had a 55 Thunderbird, a 2000 Corvette and still have the Shelby. The GT/CS was the only car I have ever regretted selling. So I purchased a red GT/CS from San Bernidino, that has been sitting since 1983. I am currently restoring it and having a great time with it. I sure would like to get another copy of the book that I sold with the first GT/CS and I might pay the 150 or over on ebay to get it. I really think that you have done a great job in helping to promote this great car! thanks, Chris Kremer

Paul,

Some additional thoughts-

As a comparison, perhaps get sales data from Casey about how many license plate frames he's sold. I know it's not apples to apples, but it may give a sense of how many people might also be interested in spending $ on the book.

Also, put up a simple poll here and see what kind of results you get. It may ease (or not) some of your concerns about selling 2000 books.

Another thing to think about is perhaps just focusing on your core enthusiasts and not the casual Mustang fan. (again, mostly the folks on this site?) and put another poll out asking "how much would you be willing to pay (give a range)for features A?, A and B?, A,B, and C?, etc."

-Jeff

The poll might be helpful to get a feel for where those of us on the site are at.

I know I would be in for 2-3 copies myself.

The option of basic book and extras is definitely something to consider.
Like a few people said, Mustang enthusiasts without a CS would not be interested in those but would probably be interested in the book.

Maybe the extras would be good to do as a "package" or "upgrade" for those that want it .. .of course I know you need to calculate a break even/profit point on that too.

Let's get you on Car Crazy and My Classic Car and others for promos :smile:

I think we could easily come up with a preorder for 200 books. That would be $20,000 to cover the printing costs.

Paul

As you know, many of us are dying to get our hands on this book. It seems like it has been a long time coming. I, for one, like the goodies and look forward to having them attached or stuck on my car to show the car belongs to the registry. However, in my opinion, it would be very difficult to judge how many books you will sell. It is still very difficult for me to understand how quickly they sell on ebay. I think you decide what you want to do and just do it. The members of this site will be happy with whatever you print to link us together. As for the goodies, you can always offer those up as a separte item and see what the interest is.

Good luck.

Paul

First question is,
1.This for profit or the car hobby?.Chances are you wont profit from it because the GT/CS doesnt have a big following.Even Saleen books are still sitting on shelves and hes bigger than the GT/CS.From a business stand point its not worth it,even though I would buy a book.If its for the hobby and you can afford that hit upfront do it.
2.What do really get out of it?How will this book benefit you?Will you make a killing on each book or just a few bucks?Keep in mind storing the books carrying them, shipping them,thats alot of work.Unless you love writing books and its a passion I wouldnt do it.

Im not discouraging you.I actually opened my business because People said I couldnt do it.Here I am 2 years later and getting bigger and detailing cars you never see or heard of.

Even Saleen books are still sitting on shelves and hes bigger than the GT/CS

You seem to be neglecting, ignoring, or completely minimizing the '68 GT/CS, and '66-'68 HCS owners. IMHO more '68 owners and enthusiasts will buy the book than '07 owners and enthusiasts.

I don't know where to start. Gosh--I am deeply humbled by your thoughts, suggestions and most importantly, support. As we've seen with other personal situations on these boards, we are there to rally support, and you have come to support me. I can't thank you all enough.

Without getting into the details, I found out yesterday what hoops I have to jump through to get the license, etc. A bit of a shock, and I even questioned the whole thing last night because of it. It's an awakening of how the financial/legal world is much different for me, since the 1989 book, but it's part of business (I just wonder how many independant book projects "don't happen" because of these new hurdles). To my surprise, I see your answers today, and from a couple of PMs, I now have the support to move ahead. Thank you so much!! Amazing help.

My greatest resource is you, the owners and enthusiasts. I couldn't do any of this without you. Your responses, and receiving registrations has been phenenomal.

I could cut back on the book, but my motivation to do a "nice", impressive book is to raise the awareness and value of the GT/CS to the Mustang world. Like a lot of things today, it's about image and status, and this book will boost the image of the GT/CS (both new and old) to other Mustang enthusiasts, as well as car people. It's as if people would now say: "gosh, if there's this big book on the GT/CS, it must be a car to have and appreciate". I think we deserve all the class and status we deserve. That "class" is so apparent here to anyone who reads these boards--and from the wonderful mail I've received over the years.

WE NEED to get our proper position and respect in the automotive world, and this book, in it's classy presentation is what will do that. To have my book with your GT/CS will add to it's value, too.

My plan is to pre-sell, and/or sell about 200-500 copies to pay for everything first, then, if the book slows down in sales, I can afford to sell the remaining copies over time, whether EBAY, whatever. I'll probably have Tony Branda sell copies for me as a retailer, with one or more other dealers, but we'll see. I may also figure a way to have the book included with '08 GT/CSs people buy at the dealer (like the Anniversary T-Bird some years ago). There is a book on the Dodge Charger out ("Hey, Charger") that I think is $100 a copy, too.

I didn't know about the Saleen books not selling. I haven't seen one; sometimes these coffee table Mustang books are more to do with photography, than hard information, and people don't buy them. I will have so much info, you'll overload on it. But, I also have some beautiful photos provided by owners, too. if I have 900 on my list, and if most buy 2 copies, I may be sold out--but that is being a little optomistic. I know that all the Mustang and Ford magazines will promote it, too(they love this kind of new stuff). I have SAAC approval, and MCA Approval (rule guidelines) is coming. With the Ford License, too, it will have a lot of credibility as a sourcebook--with your GT/CS listed in it, too.

As for timing, the '08 model year info on the GT/CS will wrap up soon. I have an interview lined up & about to happen with the GT/CS project manager. Lots of photos, etc. There will be a lot on the new cars, too. This month, I have a project to finish, and the $$ from that will finance my spending 24/7 on finishing the book. Already, I have accumilated stacks of info, photos, etc. ( for you L.A. folks, I need to interview a gentleman at a big Ford dealer, in June for the book, maybe we could meet up at Bob's or something?).

Again, I am so touched by your immediate support & ideas. This is truly an amazing group we have here on this site!

I will keep you informed to how this develops.
thank you again,
Paul M. Newitt

I have long held the position that I had a hobby that would pay for itself. I have never lost $ on any Mustang that I bought - refurbished/restored - drove - sold.
Let's do some math: 2,000 copies @ $6.00 ea to print=$12,000. If you sell 120 copies @ $100 ea, you've got your printing costs covered. (I think this could be accomplished thru initial sales, probably on this site) The time, work, research, effort, on your part can only be compensated by additional sales beyond the initial 120 copies.
How much is all your work & time worth, and how long will it take to enjoy the fruits of your labor? These are the only issues in question.
As for myself, I wouldn't hesitate to purchase (in advance) the book + shipping cost. The suggestions re: separate sales of DVD, etc would also work. What about promoting 2,000 limited, numbered copies? I say go for it!
Neil Hoppe

Paul,
I for one, am ready to buy the book. Where can I send the money?? You have invested so much of your own time to document this cars history. We are all indepted to you. I have not been on this site long, but you certainly should be able to to ask us for pre-order money to front this project. I for one trust you to do the right thing, and I think we all will benefit from your hard work, and yes, you absolutely deserve to make some profit for the thousands on hours you have put in for free. Where would our cars be and what value would they command without your work. Less in my mind.

Please ask us to assist you to front your costs to get this off the ground. We will all benefit from your work!

Rob

...I sense "pre-next-big-step" jitters here Paul.

Advance confidently in your own dreams and everything else will take care of itself. Often times better than you ever imagined.

You've certainly paved a long enough runway - so... "Time to take off" ;-)

Hi Paul,

Like the others, you can certainly count me in for a pre-order for this book. The others have offered great suggestions as well.

Naturally I don't know how much research you've done with regards to the printing of the book itself but I'm curious if the printing is going to be done here in the USA or somewhere else? The reason I mention this is because last year there was an absolutely stupendous book that came out titled "Recording The Beatles". Obviously there are more Beatles fans than there are CS fans but this book was not for the casual Beatles fan. It was heavily detailed in recording techniques/aspects which the casual fan wouldn't be interested in. This book is high quality, hard-bound, and came with some extra goodies like a poster, bookmark, and extra photos. It also weighs as much as a big-city phone book. Very hefty. The authors had this book printed in China, I believe it was, and I found that interesting.

What I'm thinking is that they chose to print this out of the country due to costs. The authors are also selling this book through their own website and it has done extremely well at $100 a pop. They are now on a second printing. I don't know the rules with regards to posting a link here so I'll refrain but their website has a "contact" link where perhaps you could reach the authors and ask them some questions about the folks who printed their book.

Just PM me if you'd like the link or simply google "Recording the Beatles" and you should be able to find them. The authors are Kevin Ryan and Brian Kehew.

-Doug

Paul,
As Tim said... Go forward with confidence. We can front the risk! You owe it to us and we owe it to you! Establish the pre-sale and remove the risk! With the 07's and 08's hot, you need to sieze the moment!!! Who else can do this but you!

Rob

Even Saleen books are still sitting on shelves and hes bigger than the GT/CS

You seem to be neglecting, ignoring, or completely minimizing the '68 GT/CS, and '66-'68 HCS owners. IMHO more '68 owners and enthusiasts will buy the book than '07 owners and enthusiasts.

I agree Arlie,

The Mustang enthusiasts in my area, and there are alot of them, are very interested in the 68 GT/CS, HCS Mustangs, and Pauls book.

I thought the Saleen books were just used for sales, not for restoration or history. The die-hard Mustang people I know have only come to notice the 07GT/CS because of the intrest in the 68 GT/CS in the last few years. They have heard of the Saleen, but are more interested in the new Shelby and Mustang GT.

John

You've certainly paved a long enough runway - so... "Time to take off" ;-)

I guess I stopped at the $4 gas.....then you guys sent this big tanker truck and filled my tank.

I'm ready now to "throttle up" the P-51.

Thanks, Tim.

Paul,
As Tim said... Go forward with confidence. We can front the risk! You owe it to us and we owe it to you! Establish the pre-sale and remove the risk! With the 07's and 08's hot, you need to sieze the moment!!! Who else can do this but you!

Rob

Thanks, Rob,

Very encouraging words. I appreciate it very much.

OK--I'll do the mailing now, with the pre-sale offer. The timing is right on the marque, as the '08s come out (which will be the icing on the GT/CS cake!).

Paul N.

I guess I stopped at the $4 gas.....then you guys sent this big tanker truck and filled my tank.

I'm ready now to "throttle up" the P-51.

Thanks, Tim.

Okay..... Up we go!

Put me down for five!!

Paul,
You have invested alot of time and money already, Your determination is appeciated. I myself admit to checking the mailbox looking for the preorder form, like a kid waiting for the decoder ring to show up. I think you will have no problems selling the 2000 books. Infact, since this book is the only one on the market that covers the GTCS & HCS in detail, and proably will not be another book like it, it sounds to me like a win win. Count me in for at least 2 to 3 books. Thanks again for your time and countless hours of research.

Kevin

I never had a Christmas as good as today has been.
Thank you all, again.

Paul.

I like the way Kevin put it. That's the first thing I do when I wake up in the afternoon, since I work graveyard. I grab the mailbox key and run , ok a fast walk, to see if my secret package has arrived. I grab the junk mail and toss it aside and then I let out a sigh. I mope back to the house with tomorrows mail drop at the top of my list. My wife tells me to quit acting like a little kid and go repair the fence. She just doesn't understand. Needless to say I can't wait for Santa Newitts elves to leave me a present.

Thanks for all you've done Paul. It's greatly appreciated.

Bret

Paul: I just read this post and I probably can't add anymore than what's already been said but I'll give it a try. You are the "grand Poobah" of the GT/CS world. You have done so much to make our cars more recognized and appreciated by the public. I too have been anxiously watching your posts and notes of progress on this project. It sounds like you've already invested a lot of time and energy so in my humble opinion, don't give up now. Count me in for a prepaid order. We want this book, no we need this book to elevate or cars to their rightful place of recognition. You are poised to let that happen. Keep up the good work and let us know how we can be of help to you.

All the best Paul!!

Paul,
A little late joining the party on this thread, but I agree with the people who recommended offering a "book only" package and then the full "enthusiast" version with the DVD and decals, etc... To add to the kudos above, thanks for all the hard work you're putting in to this project!

I think it was put very well to say that "we owe this to each other to get the book done and out"... I agree.

My current project ends May 31. Come June 1, it's a rush to get the book done ASAP. Thus begins the 24/7 "lockdown" and it begins to happen.

I know it's been a little dramatic, but to be so well supported is really moving. All those years of help and enthusiasm has come really come together.

I'm cracking the whip on the "Newitt Elves", and gettin' it into high gear. Next stop: mailing label land, envelope land, and book flier land.

You guys....LOL!

Paul N.

$100 may seem a little high to some non GT/CS fans, but for all of the goodies it seems like a bargain. Keep as much of the book in color and I'd pay more than $100, just like I did on ebay for your 1996 book in less than stellar condition and w/o any goodies.

Best of luck...

Paul;
I have been reading this thread with much interest. With all that has already been said and done the only thing I can add is this ---

"WE NOW HAVE THE DIECAST MODEL, NOW "WE (ALL OF US)" NEED YOUR BOOK".

Don

Even Saleen books are still sitting on shelves and hes bigger than the GT/CS

You seem to be neglecting, ignoring, or completely minimizing the '68 GT/CS, and '66-'68 HCS owners. IMHO more '68 owners and enthusiasts will buy the book than '07 owners and enthusiasts.
Im not minimizing anything.Im just stating the facts.Everybody into cars knows Who Steve Saleen is,but not everybody knows what a GT/CS is let alone a book for the model.From a business standpoint its not worth it.Theres alot of money to be put up for a book before it sells one copy.Would I buy one sure.Even at $100.But there wont be a line outside a bookstore to buy it.Im looking at this as strictly profit.I know the GT/CS history pretty well.Thats why I bought one.

Im not minimizing anything.Im just stating the facts.Everybody into cars knows Who Steve Saleen is,but not everybody knows what a GT/CS is let alone a book for the model.From a business standpoint its not worth it.Theres alot of money to be put up for a book before it sells one copy.Would I buy one sure.Even at $100.But there wont be a line outside a bookstore to buy it.Im looking at this as strictly profit.I know the GT/CS history pretty well.Thats why I bought one.

I believe you are mistaken when it comes to the GT/CS book.

Paul;
I have been reading this thread with much interest. With all that has already been said and done the only thing I can add is this ---

"WE NOW HAVE THE DIECAST MODEL, NOW "WE (ALL OF US)" NEED YOUR BOOK".

Don

How well have the models sold?

How well have the models sold?

Arlie;
I don't have a clue. That's a question only Greenlight or their distributor's can answer. I know I have 9 of them.

Don :eek:

As a side note, there will be a bit in the book about the development of the die-cast GT/CS, along with Don's part in making that happen (thanks, DON!).

After some other conversations in the past few days, this whole book question is coming together well, and I have to thank several folks for their help and guidance.

I feel very lucky to have this kind of support.

Paul N.

Paul,
We all feel lucky to have your dedication and energy! You are why we are where we are today.

Rob

Paul,
We all feel lucky to have your dedication and energy! You are why we are where we are today.

Rob

I concure with you, even though I own one of the new generation GT/CS, it is of great interest to me of the roots of this awsome Mustang and worth every cent. I will be ordering at least one, it not more as soon as they come available.

I think you might consider how many are willing to pre-order (and pay) to soften your up-front cost. I know I would pre-order both to 1) help the cause, and 2) be sure I get one. I spent a lot more money (money well spent I might add) than $100 each to get copies of your previous books and will/would do the same with the new one.

Paul,

Whatever your final decision is - I would pre-order two "deluxe" books today.

One for me and my '68, and one for my parents whose '07 is due to be delivered TODAY! WooHoo!

Please make sure I'm on your list!

Thanks,
Doug

Paul, maybe propose the official question, clear out your PM box and begin taking comittments and request payment right before production (or have us commit publicly on a new thread).

For example: Our group is able to pay for an entire airshow (insurance, performers, band, catering, a/c fuel, services etc...) well in advance of the event by selling its value to sponsors (which you have done). There seems an abundance of people here willing to prepay....

Count me in for at least two.

Paul, maybe propose the official question, clear out your PM box and begin taking comittments and request payment right before production (or have us commit publicly on a new thread).

For example: Our group is able to pay for an entire airshow (insurance, performers, band, catering, a/c fuel, services etc...) well in advance of the event by selling its value to sponsors (which you have done). There seems an abundance of people here willing to prepay....

Hey Tim (and everyone else)!!!,

I certainly appreciate your enthusiasm and ideas for the book, and how I could go about getting it out. Again, my thanks to everyone for their support and it really means a lot to me.

Part of the pre-agreement with Ford is that I can't pre-sell a trademarked item (i.e. "GT/CS") until it's licensed. So-- I can not send out letters to the 900 or so folks on my list, and ask for $$ yet.

So-- I'm, sending a "book confirmation form", to order a book (or more than one) that will be mailed back to me. No money is involved with this form, and it's a chance to let everyone know what is going on, and how this is going to have to work. It will be at this time when people can get priority for a (signed and) numbered copy.

I have more than one backer to front the licensing, printing, etc.(thank you!!). But before I want to do anything--I need to get a relaible headcount of how many books I can sell at start, to see if this whole thing will fly.... I know--I know...it's a no-brainer, but I want to do this right from the beginning. Besides--the mail response will give me a better estimate for licensed sales, since Ford wants a projected sales number for each of three years.

I also need to look into liability insurance (any experts/agents/advice out there?). I tell ya--if someone was doing a $15 book, they'd be S-O-L from the up-front costs, not even including printing. I don't think you'll see many other independant writers/publishers doing this type of thing anytime soon... That is why YOUR support here will make this happen, and why I am SO lucky to have it. I just wonder how other Registries will do their information, and registry listings. I think a Boss 302/429 book with Registry would be awesome, too.

So--don't get me wrong. This WILL happen, and I'm making a plan right now. It's not anything like cold feet, etc....it's just logistics, research, and some timing.

So--my list is ready to go--and as soon as I can get my current project done (late May), this will be the priority.

thanks again!!

Paul N.

Paul;
I've read all the comments, pro &con, this & that. The bottom line is you've got your act together, done your homework, and have great support. Best of luck (well deserved), and I'll patiently await my copies!
Neil Hoppe

Thanks, Rob,

Very encouraging words. I appreciate it very much.

OK--I'll do the mailing now, with the pre-sale offer. The timing is right on the marque, as the '08s come out (which will be the icing on the GT/CS cake!).

Paul N.

Paul;
Was just wondering about the mailing you spoke about above. Has that happened yet?


Don

Hi Don, and everyone else....

I just finished a HUGE exhibit project for Wall Drug, South Dakota ("Westward We Go", if anyone out in the midwest would like to go see it.) Anyway, after about three intensive months, it's done. It was a 15 foot wide map of the USA, with lights, animations and an 8-minute soundtrack with music. It was finished last Tuesday (6/5).

I have to get the Ford license process going, then the letters go out. The BIG mailing list is complete, labels ready to go. This week and next week will be when I get the letter written, then they go out.

Sorry for the delay. That previous project took longer than I expected--but it provides $$ for me to work on the book without any "outside work" distractions for a while.

Paul.

My husband is just about to finish his job at Hot Springs S.D. to bad.

Thanks Paul, I'll watch the mail.

Don

Hi Don, and everyone else....

I just finished a HUGE exhibit project for Wall Drug, South Dakota ("Westward We Go", if anyone out in the midwest would like to go see it.) Anyway, after about three intensive months, it's done. It was a 15 foot wide map of the USA, with lights, animations and an 8-minute soundtrack with music. It was finished last Tuesday (6/5).


Paul.

Sounds cool, Paul. I wish I was close by to check it out!
I'll be looking out for your mailing and patiently awaiting the book!

Paul;
Was just wondering about the mailing you spoke about above. Has that happened yet?


Don

Just wondering are you sending to our personal address, If you need my address, please email me. Thanks

Just wondering are you sending to our personal address, If you need my address, please email me. Thanks

Yes, I do have your address. Thanks for asking.

As a side note--the folks in South Dakota are extremely nice and helpful. I consider that true for all of the midwest, too!

Paul N.

Paul,
I check in much too infrequently these days, but I am heading to the mailbox (in my house slippers) after sending this to see if I got my letter! I need two, may spring for three.
Robert

I will also be checking my mail box - as I especially need (want) this book so I can continue my search for a California Special and maybe know what I am looking for. Until than I guess that I'll just have to ask questions in through this forum.

I sent you a PM with my address and will order at least 2 books - could be more as it would be a great holiday gift.

I'm writing the letter right now, and hope to get it in the mail ASAP. Probably by the end of next week.

After the letter is sent, I'll also post it also on this site, so everyone can read it here.

As a side note, I saw a Corvette book in Border's yesterday, and it had a hood emblem affixed to the cover. Inspiration for me....I'll try to put the California Special script (smaller, custom made) to be attached to the front of the hardcover. We deserve the class this Mustang gives up--and you'll get it.

thanks again for all your support.

Paul.

Paul;
I have been reading this thread with much interest. With all that has already been said and done the only thing I can add is this ---

"WE NOW HAVE THE DIECAST MODEL, NOW "WE (ALL OF US)" NEED YOUR BOOK".

Don

I second that! Getting my CS out for the summer of 2008 is in the plans to enter in car shows and I sure hope to have that book by then, I have all the other goodies including my royal maroon die cast model. So please don't let me down. :grin:

Stacey

Yes, I do have your address. Thanks for asking.

As a side note--the folks in South Dakota are extremely nice and helpful. I consider that true for all of the midwest, too!

Paul N.

Ok Paul, just mail me the info on how you are taking payments, and I will get back to you as soon as I recieve it. I have paypal, if that would work and you will recieve your money the same day. I want one for sure.

I'm writing the flier right now. I may take half-down deposits, OR, I may only take reservations. You'll know when you get the flier in the mail. Do not send any money right now....

I'll offer a small discounts on more than one book ordered at the same time, and I will make sure that an order of more than one will be sold as consecutive-numbered books to the buyer/collector.

I'll post the flier info here (as it's own thread) once the mailing has gone out.

Two other points:

If I seem like I'm ignoring anyone's PM, please understand that I do read everything, and keep good track of it. I apologize in advance if I may not have time to write back. Things here are getting hectic 'round here these dayz!!

Also-- If you think I either didn't get your address, or it's changed on your end, it may overrun my PMs if you send it to me. Be patient--I'll clear the box (or get Jon to open it up for 300 messages) ASAP; and try again.

If you've sent me something within, oh, the last three years, you're OK. We were very meticulous in getting the names & addresses right for the upcoming mailing.

stay tuned!!

Paul.

In the continuing spirit of sharing the book's process with you all, here is an update, and information about the mailer that I am currently working on. I'll post this notice on two threads.

Although I have been talking about a mailer since (at least) June, the delay is not a matter of procrastination or hesitancy, but of timing. It's a bit like being between a rock and a hard place. This is not really a direct delay, but abuot how well I can juggle my time and maximize production and sales.

Applying for the license for the book requires obtaining insurance, then an application process. I can't go into the details, but know that all of this has been in the works for some time now.

I had originally thought of sending the mailer to about 1,000 folks on my mailing list, asking for a book deposit. After thinking this through, I've decided to send the mailer ASAP with a reservation form. If you wish to buy a book (or more than one) you will fill out the reservation form, and can return it with NO pre-order money required. It won't be a binding agreement, but I will be holding a book (or more) for you, with as low a number as possible. When the books are ready, books unpaid by this reservation will untimately go to another buyer. The unknown variable is the time it will actually take to finish the book--and the licensing process, so I wouldn't want to tie up your money for an undetermined length of time.

Your reservation(s) will give me a serious estimate of how many books I can sell in the short term, to finance this whole project. The insurance, license advance fee, printing & binding, DVDs, and other necessary items will cost quite a lot. I have had a couple of investors interested (which I greatly appreciate!!). What I'll need are some good numbers of those interested enough to buy a book (or more) when they become available. This is the missing part of this puzzle that I'll appreciate getting, once the returned reservation forms start coming in.

Once the mailer has gone out, In the meantime the book's writing, editing and production, will move ahead. There will be an undetermined time required for the license approval, including a review of the book. The licensing process will not hinder the continuation of the book's progress.

When the license is approved, and the book is ready to go to print, I will approach those with reservations for payment in full (including shipping) at that time. This will be explained in detail in the mailer you will receive. All of this may sound a bit confusing, but I am definately moving forward despite the required legal and financial requirements. I'm able to include the 2008 GT/CS production data and history, which will really make this a complete history book of the GT/CS (and makes the book's "delay" actually an advantage).

In the meantime--I'm finishing up the mailer ASAP, and it will go out very soon!! (it would be safe to say by the end of July, you'll "finally" get it). This mailer will also include some more questions about your GT/CS, and a request to get your Marti Report, photos and perhaps video to me ASAP. Some members/owners on my list are not aware of this website, and haven't heard from me since 1996. This may bring some very interesting new information!

I'd be happy to answer any questions, and/or clarify anything.
I truly appreciate your continued interest and support!

Paul N.