FTP mapping in the Finder

What I want to do is map a /dir on my FTP server so that it comes up under "places" in the left column on the finder window. I also want thit to automatically show up each time I start my computer and not have to go back and connect each time.

Is it possible to do this?

Realize that mapped FTP servers in finder are read-only.

If you want filesystem integration, try MacFuse (and MacFusion if you prefer a gui). That can map many different types of services as finder volumes.