Corky, what a heck of a statement! I thought I was in a situation also and I did some looking in myself. Because I too wanted and still do want to get out on my own and work when I want to. IPIU gave put me in this trend of thought; and no sooner than I start to put my all in it a stone came right at me, hindering my goals etc. and for a moment I was upset but after seriously reading as much as I could on the union I reached a conclusive decision not to let anything get in the way of my thinking. Yes, I have been accosted about the union and yes, I have read alot of remarks but when you sit and think about all that you have read,there is no way one could accept the negativeness portrayed by these individuals, be that who the may. Listen, we are simular in some ways. Meaning the situation based on your experience as a p.o. and the fact that something like what you've stated made your jaws dropped. Now I have never been an officer of the law but I have an immensive background on investigation as a Poor relief assistant. (Not going into detail) however, with all the knowledge and experience I do have , I too was told no way. I soon found out that there were avenues I could take (positive ones) in order to obtain the status I now have and it worked. You see alot of people do not want to share various information to you and you have to seek these things on your own. I got my pi registrant license from the state in which I live but it's the agency license that I am after. Now I don't know about anyone else but I am sticking with this union and I will have my license here in my state and still I shall operate with and though IPIU (corporate). This is the hand that is lifting me from a dead level to a living perpendicular. I'm affiliating myself / joining various p.i. associations, staying in contact with various v.i.p's , taking up courses getting certified, building up my status and turning in proof of what I am doing (certifications when completed) so I can have a very healthy website on my next upgrade. Nothing beats a failure but a try. I'm not going to fail. Listen, you were/are an officer of the law. You have the greatest potential and I know you will find a way. I know man. Happy New Years sir. Will see you in the future. You are the Man. and IPUI members will be there for you.