September 30, 2007 – Dear Skiers and Supporters: The countdown is on! The deadline to raise $65,000 to match the Birkie® Challenge Grant is just 15 short days away. As you know, John and Leslie Taylor, skiers and supporters from Madison, Wis., issued the challenge and will match dollar for dollar every donation collected from now until October 15, 2007.

To date $11,460 has been raised. That means we need another $53,540 before October 15! If you have already made a contribution, thank you. If not, please send your contribution today.

We’re bound and determined to raise $130,000 ($65,000 from the Taylors and $65,000 from skiers and supporters) by October 15. Here’s why:

– $130,000 would fund completion of the Classic Trail segment to Highway OO in 2008. The new Classic Trail will benefit both skate and classic skiers thanks to providing reduced congestion for everyone; allows separate, smaller, 5-minute alternating skating and classic wave starts; and results in a better race day experience for both skaters and striders.

– $130,000 would allow the purchase of a second, large grooming machine to assure quality grooming for skate and classic skiers on both trails through the winter and on race day.

As a skier, you know how the Birkie® helps you and thousands of others live fit, healthy lives. Will you pass that gift on, especially during this 35th anniversary, by donating to the Birkie® Challenge Grant?


It’s easy to donate. Simply send a check by October 15, 2007 made out to “ABSF Trail Fund,” to the ABSF at PO Box 911, Hayward, WI 54843.

Our goal to raise $130,000 in just 30 days is ambitious and oh, so possible. I believe we can do it with true blue Birkie® skiers and supporters like you. Will you help us make this opportunity a reality? Your gift will have an impact for years to come, and your donation to the ABSF, a non-profit organization, is tax deductible.

Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you by October 15th.

Sincerely,

Ned Zuelsdorff
Executive Director

ps. Every dollar donated to the ABSF from September 15 to October 15, 2007 will be matched up to $65,000. As time is of the essence, I ask you to please act today. Your donation will make a huge impact for years to come and is tax deductible.