The Mohegan Sun Casino has become one of the major sponsors of Operation Sail 2000, a tall ship event expected to attract 38 ships from 11 countries through July 12-15 in New London CT, AP reported. The American Indian tribe, which owns the casino, anted up $125,000 to the festival at a crucial time after fund-raising efforts for OpSail fell short of a $2.1 million fund raising goal. The budget for the event may have to be trimmed from $7 million to $6.2 million. Govenor John Rowland estimated approximately $90 million in economic activity could result from the event. Rowland, who seeks to put aside $5.5 million in state surplus funds for OpSail, thanked the Mohegan Tribal Chairman Roland Harris and the Tribal Council for its support. OpSail officials hope to repay the state for some of its investment through proceeds and additional corporate sponsorships. The money will cover operating expenses, including preparing piers for the tall ships, aiding pedestrian traffic, and some site improvements.