I will leave most of the details for Micheal to answer but I can answer some of your questions already.
Taipan Class rules do allow sails of a different sailmaker as long as the measure in. If you had a sail completely redesigned than might not be full complient but I don't think that that will be a big deal.
Spinnakers on the sidelines for this event at Tampa at least for the class races as the Taipan class doesn't allow them. However, I think that there was also an open race included in the program and Micheal expressed that they might do a friendly round around the cans with the spis to give the newbies a change to gain experience.
Rick, if youy do need a crew for the sloop then I'm anxious to volunteer myself. I can't garantee anything but as you know I'm looking at giving both events a try.
Wouter