Cliff Hamm,
Income is NOT one of the criteria for membership, why would you think it would be ?
As to family ties, derivatives usually have an advantage, as does having brothers and/or sisters and other family members who are members.
With respect to connections, of course they're important, that's what sponsors are all about.
Most clubs require prospective members to have sponsors, seconders, etc, etc..
The more sponsors, seconders and supporters the more likely one would be to gain entry.
That's just common sense, isn't it.
As to status, would being the CEO, COO or CFO of Microsoft, Boeing, CBS, NBC, ESPN or Starbucks qualify ?
Why shouldn't status be a consideration ?