DEFEND what you want.
SAAC has always been a coalition. It has varied some over the years but for the most part has been consistent enough to make the formula effective. The formula for determining convention locations hasn't changed and is unlikely to in the near future. Other factors have entered into the decision though that weren't necessarily there before.
The Dearborn conventions are unarguably the largest. The first two didn't have tracks. Ford's Utica test track was "volunteered". One time because Shelby was getting us Dodge's and the powers that be at Ford "wouldn't allow that.
Track availability and AFFORDABILITY for the last 30 years no doubt are our Nemesis?
Yes. Values have changed usages of the cars and will continue to do so.
If you are happy with what is, that's great. I would think that it isn't going to get better or change and probably it isn't even possible to make it any better? The question is, is what IS deteriorating or is it just our perspective or even EXPECTATIONS changed? Does it "depend on what the definition of is, is?"
I said 30 to 40 HARD CORE enthusiasts. Ones that will be there hell or high water. Sure there are others that show up occasionally. Just like dandelion seeds blowing in the wind. So that depends on which direction the wind carries them or whether the fires burn them up or maybe the whale sightings are up? That's fine. Butterflies are free, but the cause of west coast conventions was and is just a demanding of equal time.
There is NO question that the Mini Nats are more important. That is probably the largest factor in the uncertain turn outs to west coast SAAC Conventions.
As far as making suggestions of great ideas, fine, do you volunteer your time and efforts to accomplish that? The staff is a little short handed you know?