I just couldn't imagine why someone should spend money only to buy a title - doesn't it foil the concept of e a r n i n g a title, since that's what titles and ranks are all about? Are there any questions left now?
Ok looks like you dont know the real concept behind sponsorships or what earning is.
The more the donations come to Daniweb, the more easier would it be for Miss Dani to remove ads so that the browsing the site yields only content and not ads. Though its a long shot, its worth a try.
So in a way the sponsor would be contributing to the community with his hard earned money. There are different ways a person can contribute to a community, depending on the resources he possesses. Going out to say that the sponsor has *not earned* the title is I think like insulting them. Money doesnt come for free you know...
Professionals contribute by helping other people out with their knowledge, do good work and are made moderators. Sponsors help the community out by givign out their hard earned money to this forum. Atleast they expect something in return for their kindness.
A real life example -- game developers go out to make real good games but they wouldnt succeed in their efforts if there was no money involved. Money is always in the background. Saying that Game producers or sponsors dont play a role in the success of the game would be a bit too harsh.
Snipping or clipping out someone's hopes and expectations by saying such things is not a good sign.