one shoe
I did exactly the same as you and got the same response (see above). I also replied to the email they sent me and have heard nothing - reason is that they only seem to recognise emails when you type them into that little box on their 'contact' form.
I'm going for the B2 visa - cheaper than being turned away and sent home. I agree that you shouldn't need one, but most immigration people probably won't have a clue what you're trying to do and as soon as you say the word "flying" you'll likely be on a one way ticket back home via rubber glove city.
