I did purchase a shifter for the transmission on eBay. It is similar to a Pro 5.0 shifter but made by SR Performance. I picked it up for $50 which is a decent price. It arrived in the mail yesterday and looks almost new.
I plan on removing the handle currently on the shifter. I've not decided what I'll use for the handle or knob. I've some time to think it over as I still need to save up some money for the block plate, crossmember, fulcrum mount, and to have the current driveshaft shortened.