The only event I have ever seen put on by the NCM that required a $1000 entry fee was the Dale Earnhardt Legends Road Trip. Are you by chance referring to this event?
The DE Legends road tour was limited to 100 Corvettes and the first 90 slots were open to Lifetime members only. After the first 90 cars were selected, it was opened up to other NCM members. It required the $1000 up front to secure your place in the event.
As you can imagine, anything dealing with Dale Earnhardt and DEI would have a massive turnout if it was open to everyone and at a budget price. The cost had to cover the planning, police escorts, special event license plates from the State of Kentucky, access to DEI and all the other places on the tour. It was one hellofa road trip.
I've never felt cheated by the NCM and I never expected them to roll out the red carpet and the marching band for me when I became a Lifetime member either.
Now if I was to donate enough money to the NCM for them to complete the building expansion, then I might have a reason to expect something more.
The Hall of Fame dinners have always cost Lifers and other members something - $45 is memory serves. $55 for none members.
Some events at the NCM require an entry fee for members - even Lifers. The only NCM event that I know of that has ever included a $1000 fee was the DE Legends trip.
Chuck, I think you need to place a call to the NCM and have a talk with someone there about your issues with them. 1-800-53-VETTE. Stephanie is the membership director. You might want to ask for Wendell. I know they would rather hear from you directly rather than hear about this second hand.
That's all,
Have a nice day.
