orphan: The remarks from Timbo looked to me like sarcasm. If he really meant that he would contact Oracle and Jimmy Buffet, I apologize for not picking up on that. BTW, do you have a real name?
The online list is the only list that I am aware of, in terms of who we cannot conflict with. Having said that, we have to work with US Sailing to ensure that we do not do anything that would harm the existing relationships with the championship series partners (meaning, Hooters and Viagra would probably not fly, even though a bunch of folks here will probably make the argument that they share the same demographics as Rolex).
Jay, I would defer to Bert to answer how he and his team are currently approaching potential sponsors.
Anyone who truly wants to help get sponsors should go to Bert.
Pete, I love your idea, and it's right in line with one of the ideas I gave to Jack (and others) as far back as October: There are lots of ways to raise this money. I would be the second $100. Now, we just need 48 more!
I have it directly from Jack that stickers on the boats are definitely an option, but we have to work with US Sailing to ensure that we don't harm the relationship with Rolex and the others. Those partners provide a lot more to the overall championship series (and US Sailing itself) than the money that is provided to our event budget. I am aware that some of you can't see past the dollar amount of the donation, and that is your right. Just know that you will never be happy with that attitude because this is just the reality of the situation and it will not change (unless the committee decides to sever relations with Rolex, which is not very likely).
