I've represented a very popular sax player with a giant sound still touring with perhaps the greatest rock band in history. Years ago he was approached with a big bucks sponsor deal by a major beverage brand. It never went down because the leader of that greatest rock band had a rock solid code: no sponsors. Why the code? He did not want his band mates to be paid flacks because it sent the wrong message to his fans. That deal died but reputations soared.

You little deal sounds like an attractive opportunity. What is your policy? Where does the payola begin, and where does it end? First you take an air ticket and free room. Then you take a meal. Then you get some product. Then you meet the execs. Then you're getting cozy with their PR firm.

Then you take cash. You think you're running them. But they're running you. They're dancing because they've got an influential guy to write about them (like you just did) and reach the tech audience all warm and fuzzy. Nicely done!

I think about the freebees handed out to politicians by lobbyists now in prison. And the infamous payola scandals in the music industry.

You're now in bed, baby – disclosure notwithstanding. Make sure they send Town Cars at the airports.