Good choice Ablaze. That axe is very close to my '69 strat. The American deluxe is a fairly standard high end Strat. I'd look for an ash body as opposed to alder. Ash is a tad heavier but will sustain better.
Neck color realy doesn't matter so much. I prefer a rosewood fretboard myself (the darker wood). Rosewood is more porous yet harder than maple. This gives it the ability to "soak up" more sweat and finger oil than maple, but still be more durable in the long run. I think they are more playable, but that's just me. I have a rosewood fretboard on all of my guitars except one. I do notice a difference after playing for a half hour or so.
I think you'd be very happy with that choice.
If your looking for cool colors, check these out.
http://fender.com/gear/gear.php?partno=01301XX