[Joe Johnson]

I have heard from folks that know more about these things than I do that there are promoters that will line up TV and advertisers for a given series of events for a given share of the advertising income. Many sporting events and other series use the services of these promoters.

One thing that these promoters require is some say as to what it is that they are promoting. This would require that FIRST give up some control (or at least grant someone else veto power). FIRST (i.e. Dean & Woodie) have been very reluctant to let anyone have any say over the game or the tourney format. This may be the reason that such a deal has not be made before.

For what it is worth, I think that this would be a good bargain.

But, I suppose it is more complicated than I realize. Most things are.

Joe J.