Mr. Cross said the amount still to be paid was between 10 percent and 25 percent of the purchase price.

Mr. Cross is known for using profanity in his act.

Mr. Cross declined to say how long the loan is to run.

Mr. Cross declined to say exactly how many dollars foreign central banks had bought to support the currency.

That news conference was followed five days later by a second $1,000 check from Mr. Cross.

Mr. Cross says he hopes to decide on where the training site will be by spring and get construction started quickly.

Mr. Cross was born in 1931, a son of the theater.

Mr. Cross estimated that over the years he has made about 150 pieces.

Mr. Cross said that if all 29 houses sell for the asking prices, he would pay money back to the city.

After that ends, Mr. Cross doesn't know what he will do next.