Abstract: A system for associating an electronic request with at least one supplier, including a storage device for storing information regarding a plurality of suppliers of goods or services; a receiver for receiving information regarding an electronic request; a processor for processing information regarding the electronic request and creating an electronic venue; a transmitter for transmitting information regarding the electronic request and the electronic venue to a first supplier if the system determines that the first supplier is authorized to access the electronic venue and the electronic request, and also for transmitting information regarding the electronic request and the electronic venue to a second supplier if the system determines that the second supplier is authorized to access the electronic venue.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a system for associating requests with potential respondents to those requests. The system facilitates the purchasing of goods and/or services, knowledge-based inquiries, and matching common interest groups by associating requests with category designations and providing potential respondents with access to the requests.

Abstract: A heel plate arrangement for a cross-country ski boot includes a male member located at the rear of a cross-country ski boot, the forward-most edge of the member being connected to the boot and the rearward-most edge of the member being unobstructed. A female member is sized and shaped to cooperate with and receive the male member, the female member including a vertical slot which is open along the top and at least at the forward-most end. The slot is shaped and has sufficient height, length and width for providing a positive interlock between the male member and slot for restricting lateral movement of the rear portion of the ski boot when the male member is received in the slot.