We are VERY sorry that Kodo died. We will remember him. I hope no one else (beast or human) ever has to suffer the same fate as Kodo and his family. On the national organization. I understand that several efforts on the national level have failed for reasons unknown to me. Possible name United Ferret Owners (UFO) <smile> Anyways... how about trying a structure as used by the United States Dressage Federation? They have a central group that sets the standards, qualified judges and other coordination activites. The central is run by an elected board of directors. There is an annual national convention, awards and shows. This group published a monthly magizine for the members. Each horse is registered and accumlates points for awards. Under the central group are numbered regions. Virginia is in region 1. The regional groups coordinate the local activities. These are also run by an elected board of directors. They also handle regional awards. The local groups operate independendly under the standards set by the upper controls. The locals run shows, camps, clinics and the like. This is the heart of the organization. The members are automatcally included in the national membership (which includes the national publications and eligablty for awards). The membership is $25 a year. This may be a bit more elaborate than we need, but it is very successful since there is a minimum of political control. Nan and gang [Posted in FML issue 1973]