Change value when changing tabs FM9

[PacificStar]

I'm working on a simple email system, where I have three tabs. One for Inbox, Outbox and Sent. Each tab has a portal inside, each with different fields, dependent on a related field that corresponds with the tab.

I want to click on a tab, change one global value, and show the data in the corresponding tab.

I'm avoiding script triggers since I want this to work in FM9 as well as FM10.

So far the best results I have is transparent buttons over the tabs, that runs a script that changes the value and changes the tab. What doesn't work is that the tabs are triggering first, and I have to click in the same location a second time to hit the button.

I've moved the tabs to the back, and the buttons to the front, which hasn't helped. Extending the buttons above the tabs gives the desired effect, other than that I'm clicking on what appears to be empty space.

Is there another way to do this that may work better? The only other alternative I've been able to think of is to set up three layouts and use graphics to fake the tabs--something far sloppier than what I currently have.

Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

[comment]

You can use fake tabs (buttons) and make them switch the "real" tab panels. Set the tab headings to zero width, no border.