Now a Word From Our Sponsors.

• Author: Ward, Lisa Cilva
• Position: Brief Article

It's fair to say that the success of the 2002 Olympio Winter Games is dependent on Utah businesses. Although some Olympic host countries have had the benefit of governmental funding to assist in the costs of hosting the Olympic Games, this is not the case in the United States.

The Salt Lake Organizing Committee (SLOC) has the task of not only planning, organizing and implementing a premiere event that showcases the finest athletic achievements in winter sports while celebrating American pride and hospitality, but it must also raise the funds to do so. Utah businesses are among those providing critical financial support for this Olympic effort.

The Games provide a unique opportunity for Utah businesses to showcase their products and services to an international audience. The Olympic Properties of the United States (OPUS), a joint-marketing venture between the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and SLOG, has established several levels of support that businesses can provide for the 2002 Games:

OPUS Partners provide the highest level of financial, technological, product and service support among U.S. sponsors to the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as the 2000, 2002, and 2004 U.S. Olympic Teams.

OPUS Sponsors provide cash and value-in-kind products and services (VIK) that support the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, as well as 2000, 2002, and 2004 U.S. Olympic Teams. Utah-based sponsors currently include Marker Sportswear (official outfitter for the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the torch relay), and Nu Skin/Pharmanex, (providing skin, hair and cosmetic products, and nutritional supplements).

OPUS Suppliers provide both cash and VIK, supplying necessary products and services to the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and the 2000, 2002 and 2004 U.S. Olympic Teams. Utah-based suppliers currently include Henriksen/Butler Design Group (providing Herman Miller office furniture and installation services), Ikano (providing data networking services), KSL TV and Radio (air time and production services), Modern Display (exposition and event services), OC Tanner (Olympic and commemorative medals, and team rings for all U.S. athletes), and Questar (natural gas, facilities and technical support).

Allan Bell, program manager...