many thanks to the people who responded.  Alex Pufhal <[log in to unmask]> had
the most definitive information with a referral to <http://www.echl.org>.
for my future entertainment i have selected the hampton roads admirals
solely because they will be the closest to my new home.  never fear though
i chose umaine and the bears for the same reason and they will remain my
favorite all-round/college hockey team.  interestingly enough the admirals
ahl affiliate is the portland pirates.  i will remain an ardent fomh and
bear fan although i will miss significantly more games in the coming years.
 another downer is that i plan on settling in vermont when i retire.
uvm/ecac is definitely not the same as umaine/he.  thanks again.