>I have searched IM, but can't find out how to do this, although I'm sure
>there's a toolbox call. All I want to do is to simulate the user selecting 
>the
>"Hide <little app>" command under the app menu.

A few years ago there was a rogue "Layer Manager" library circulating 
that tapped into a hidden API for the Finder's use only. It allowed you 
to hide and show applications, move to foreground and background, and so 
on.

Unfortunately this was never an official release; it may or may not work 
under new versions of the OS. I don't know if it works under OS8. And it 
was never ported to FB.

In short, there is no easy toolbox call you can find that will do it.

-Mars