The weak dollar has driven the price of a new glass slipper with instruments,
trailer and shipping to $100,000 US dollars (Bad News) I have watched the
dollar exchange rate for almost 30 years and I have made some observations.
When the dollar gets this weak, new sales drop off and buyers are inclined to
sell their positions on new ships. (Bad News for manufacturers and dealers)

So, what's the good news? Used sailplane sales will pick up. The used prices
always lag the dollar. It takes about a year and we have just had our year of
the weak dollar. Expect used ships to start selling and for the prices to firm
up and even start rising. Expect sailplanes to be exported back to Europe and
other non-US markets.

So, now is a good time to buy a used ship, before they sell or the price goes
back up. I see a couple of used V2's for sale in the mid 60's. This is an
outstanding bargain when compared to the new US price of $100,000, or more.

So, bring your new (used) ship to the Minden Championships (June 7 - 12) and
be the envy of all those assembled. She's filling up fast and we have been
forced to place a limit of 40 total entrants, due to limited parking on the
East side of the airport. Standard, 15 meter, 18 Meter, Open Classes. Contact
me for a slot, preferential cut-off is 7 April, 2004.
See you on the ramp,
JJ Sinclair (CD) & NLBFP
JJ Sinclair