Just my 2 cents (actually about 1 cent) regarding a national organization... Since I live in CA, I'm leery of getting "involved" in anything that will attract attention from the CDF&G. I wrote letters, faxes, etc. for Kodo, and in support of AB363. The tendency is to "think" there is no real danger, and they won't just show up on your doorstep and rip your pets out of your arms. I called the local warden and was told they responded to "complaints" only. But Ilona only lives 60 odd miles away, and they were right there at the airport the other day, so perhaps one can't be too careful. I'm not a "joiner", either. And Rachel's post was appropos of myself. I would gladly donate money and/or time for legislative efforts, but would actually prefer to remain anonymous. I couldn't care less about show standards, etc. All I'm really interested in is getting ferrets recognized as the wonderful pets they are, legalizing them in this state and other FFZ, and changing the kill and test policies. Bill Killian makes a lot of sense when he talks about the time and effort required to set up the "infrastructure" of a large organization. If there's already a viable one out there that has the contacts and expertise to move forward on these issues, it would be foolish and counterproductive to start all over again from scratch, wouldn't it? I admit to being more than a little naive (ignorant) about the "power struggles" and "turf wars" that people are alluding to as major stumbling blocks in uniting the current clubs and organizations. I find it hard to believe that grown people can get their skivvies twisted over who gets the credit for this or that. Surely there's enough glory to go around? I will probably go along with whatever comes out at the end. A new organization? Fine! Here's my money. The AFA? Fine! Here you go. But if time is of the essence (and it is!) then we need to start doing something NOW, while everyone is still angry and motivated. Time has a way of removing the urgency to right an injustice. JMHO Linda Phoebe.."Look, Mom! I can fly!".....splat Charlie..."ONE raisin? Is this a famine or something?" [Posted in FML issue 1976]