Opposite this page is an article summarizing the dire financial situation which the Las Positas Park Foundation (LPPF) currently finds itself with regards to the final purchase of the Jesuit Property - our flight park. Much to my surprise, upon reading the October 15 edition of The Independent, I was for the first time made aware of the fact that the purchase of the Jesuit property by the LPPF was not a done deal. Since the initial purchase agreement, for the past two to three years now, I was under the mistaken belief that LPPF had already acquired the complete title to the property.

The article on the reverse side clearly points out that if the balloon payment of $500,000 is not paid by New Year's eve (only two months from now), LPPF will default on it's loan, and ownership of the property will return to the Jesuits. Although such a transfer does not automatically spell doomsday for our flight park and training hill, the uncertainty which comes along with such a default is something I dread to consider. All of the many concerns and worries which we faced three years ago when the initial sale of the property was offered are now squarely in our face again.

We cannot lose our park, for the future of foot launched flight in Santa Barbara mandates the need for such a training site.

I implore you to do whatever and all that you can to help us save and preserve this unique, special and one of the oldest flight training locations in the country. Donations to the Las Positas Park Foundation can be made directly by mailing your check to:
      Lynn Holley re: Acquisition of Jesuit Property
      Las Positas Park Foundation
      PO Box 30818
      Santa Barbara, CA 93130-0818
Your check should have the specific designation "For Acquisition of the Jesuit Property"

Additionally I encourage you to spread the word amongst your family, friends and acquaintances. Every dollar is one dollar closer to saving our park.

The flying community will be ever grateful for your support.

Glenn E. Miller, President
Santa Barbara Soaring Association