text:
Plectrohyla psiloderma

Scope: Global
Language: English

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Taxonomy [top]

Kingdom Phylum Class Order Family
Animalia Chordata Amphibia Anura Hylidae

Scientific Name: Plectrohyla psiloderma
Species Authority: McCranie and Wilson, 1999

Assessment Information [top]

Red List Category & Criteria: Endangered B1ab(iii) ver 3.1
Year Published: 2010
Date Assessed: 2009-01-06
Assessor(s): Gustavo Cruz, Larry David Wilson, Randy McCranie, Gunther Köhler
Reviewer(s): Global Amphibian Assessment Coordinating Team (Simon Stuart, Janice Chanson, Neil Cox and Bruce Young)
Listed as Endangered because its Extent of Occurrence is less than 5,000km2, all individuals are in fewer than five locations, and there is continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat in Guatemala and El Salvador.
Previously published Red List assessments:

Geographic Range [top]

Range Description:This species is known from Parque Nacional Celaque, Montaña Celaque, in the department of De Lempira, western Honduras, and from El Pital in northern El Salvador near the Honduran border. It might occur in Parque Nacional Pital in Honduras (on the Salvadorian border), where larvae thought to belong to this species have been found. Its altitudinal range is from 2,450-2,530m asl.
Countries occurrence:
El Salvador; Honduras
Additional data:
Lower elevation limit (metres):2450
Upper elevation limit (metres):2530
Range Map:Click here to open the map viewer and explore range.

Population [top]

Population:It is moderately common in Honduras; there are no recent records in El Salvador.
Current Population Trend:Unknown
Additional data:
Population severely fragmented:No

Habitat and Ecology [top]

Habitat and Ecology:It lives on low vegetation and boulders along pristine streams in lower montane moist forest. It breeds in streams, and is not found in disturbed habitats.
Systems:Terrestrial; Freshwater

Threats [top]

Major Threat(s): The main threat is habitat loss, mainly due to agricultural encroachment and wood extraction. Pollution from pesticides is also suspected to be a problem. Chytridiomycosis is a potential future threat, given the impact that it has had on some other high-elevation stream-breeding members of this genus in Central America.

Conservation Actions [top]

Conservation Actions: It occurs in Parque Nacional Celaque, and possibly also Parque Nacional Pital, both in Honduras; the Salvadorian population is not protected. Further survey work is needed to determine the status of this species in the Salvadorian part of the range.

Citation: Gustavo Cruz, Larry David Wilson, Randy McCranie, Gunther Köhler. 2010. Plectrohyla psiloderma. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2010: e.T55882A11370218. . Downloaded on 24 May 2017.
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Schools & Divisions

Dental Assisting Curriculum

Certificate in Dental Assisting

The dental assisting program at IU Northwest is a one year, 36 credit hour certificate program.  A dental assistant is a member of the dental health team who is educated to assist the dentist. The dental assistant aids the dentist in the detection, care, and treatment of the patient’s oral health.

Graduate dental assistants have completed a professional, accredited college program that entitles them to take a national certification examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).  Upon successful completion of this examination, the assistant becomes a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA).

Dental Assisting Departmental Information Sheet

Clinical Externship Hour Requirements

A minimum of 300 clinical externship hours are required to meet academic and accreditation standards. Therefore, all clinical externship hours are mandatory and all missed time must be made up.  See the Dental Education Policy & Procedure Handbook and/or course syllabus for specific policies regarding clinical externship policies.

Advanced Degree

IU Northwest offers an educational program that allows students to apply a select number of their dental assisting credits toward an associate of science or a bachelor's degree in another discipline.

Fall Semester

• DAST A112 Dental/Medical Emergencies and Therapeutics (2 cr.)

• DAST A121 Microbiology and Asepsis Techniques (2 cr.)

• DAST A171 Clinical Science I (5 cr.)

• DHYG H214 Oral Anatomy (3 cr.)

• DHYG H242 Introduction to Dentistry (1 cr.)

• DHYG H303 Dental Radiology (2 cr.)

 Total (15 cr.)

 Spring Semester

• DAST A111 Oral Pathology, Physiology, and Anatomy I (2 cr.)

• DAST A113 Oral Pathology, Physiology, and Anatomy II (1 cr.)

• DAST A131 Dental Materials I (2 cr.)

• DAST A141 Preventive Dentistry & Nutrition (2 cr.)

• DAST A152 Radiology Clinic II (1 cr.)

• DAST A172 Clinical Science II (5 cr.)

 Total (13 cr.)

Summer I Session

• DAST A132 Dental Materials II (2 cr.)

• DAST A161 Behavioral Science (1 cr.)

• DAST A162 Oral and Written Communications (2 cr.)

• DAST A182 Practice Management, Ethics, and Jurisprudence (2 cr.)

• DHYG H224 Oral Histology and Embryology (1 cr.)

  Total (8 cr.)

Additional Information

Please contact the Dental Education Program Advisor, Dawn Marciniak for additional information at (219) 980-6770 or by e-mail at

Academic Bulletins

PDF Version

Click here for the PDF version.

IUN Bulletin

Click here to go to IUN Bulletin Homepage.

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(212) 353-3310

Mac on a Windows Network

If your office has both Macs and PCs, we can make it easy to share files and printers, and to exchange information between Mac and Windows computers. Your mixed IT environment can be simple and productive instead of incompatible and frustrating.

Some of the solutions we can implement:

  • Connect a Mac to a company Windows file server
  • Set up a Mac to share files with PCs
  • Ensure documents are accessible on both Mac and PC computers
  • Set up a Mac to print to the office printer
  • Set up a Mac with remote access to a Windows server
  • Set up a Mac with remote access to a PC workstation
  • Set up a Mac to use a central printer and scanner

Call us at (212) 353-3310 or email us at smallbusiness@ivanexpert.com for assistance with Mac-PC networking.

run Windows software on the Mac >

(212) 353-3310


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The People's Economy
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Format: DVD
Length: 12:00 Minutes
Grade Level: 4-12+
Closed Captioned
Price: $15.00
For much of the twentieth century, China was a poor communist country. But over the past twenty-five years, 400 million people in China have escaped the dire poverty of living on less than $1 a day. Average real incomes have increased 440%. The city of Shanghai now stands as a dramatic symbol of the fastest growing major economy in world history. Hundreds of thousands of people work in skyscrapers, some among the tallest in the world. Privately owned designer boutiques line the city's streets.

It would seem that Communist China is using free trade to reinvent itself--but not entirely. In The People's Economy, we meet Shi Hai and his employees at internet gaming company Snail Game. They are navigating the delicate path between China's cultural traditions and their bold, new ideas. China still faces many challenges, including widespread poverty in the countryside. One important question remains unanswered: Will China's new economic freedoms lead to political freedom for the Chinese people?

The People's Economy covers numerous educational standards across several subject areas including ELL, Language Arts, Media/Technology, and Social Studies for Grades 4-12. To find which standards it covers specific to yourgrade, subject area, and which standards your district follows, use our Standards Alignment tool.
Subject Areas:
Business / Family & Consumer Science
World History / Geography
Chinese History and Culture
Economic Freedom
Political Freedom
izzit.org Resources For This Program:
Table of Contents (also included in DVD)
Teacher's Guide (also included on DVD)
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Price: $15.00
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Monte CarloPack Of 2 Multicoloured Regular Fit Round Neck T-Shirts

Rs 1000
Policy and Authenticity
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      Impress the onlookers on the streets with the intensity of your chic casual look wearing this multicoloured T-shirt from Monte Carlo. Oozing a trendy appeal with its graphic print on the front, this T-shirt has a round neck and half sleeves. Comfortable to wear, this cotton T-shirt can be teamed with denims and canvas slip-ons to complete your smart apparel.

      • FabricCotton
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      • NeckRound Neck
      • FitRegular
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      • ColorMulticoloured
      • Wash CareNormal Hand/Machine Wash With Like Colors, Do Not Expose To The Direct Sunlight
      • Package ContentsPack of 2 T Shirt
      • Model StatsModel is wearing size 40 and his height is 6, chest 39 and waist 32.
      • AuthorizationMonte Carlo authorized online sales partner.


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Alter Orbis Skeleton Necklace

Alter Orbis Skeleton Necklace

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Width 3.50" x Height 4.13" x Depth 0.51"

Chain Length:
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Fine English Pewter.

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T&T medical doctor on cocaine export charges

Tuesday, June 03, 2014

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PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – An Indian-born medical doctor will re-appear in court on June 30 after he was charged with possession and attempting to export nearly two kilograms of cocaine last year.

Dr Rajah Shiva Prasad Muvalla, 30, who is based in Tobago, was granted TT$1.5 million (One TT dollar = US$0.16 cents) bail when he appeared before Magistrate Ray Roopchand at the Arima Court, on Monday.

Dr Muvalla, who was arrested over the weekend, had initially been questioned late last year when on November 7, he was allegedly found in possession of the cocaine which was contained in two water heaters destined for Jamaica. The items were about to be flown aboard a Caribbean Airlines flight.

A second charge, read in court was that Muvalla was in possession of 17.12 kilogrammes of cocaine for export at Piarco International airport.

The court was told that the cocaine had an estimated local street value of TT$6.8 million (One TT dollar = US$0.16 cents).

Police had initially objected to bail for the medical doctor deeming him a flight risk and that he had also been charged with was charged with breaking and entering the pharmacy of the Sangre Grande District Hospital and the larceny of pharmaceutical drugs.

But attorney Jai Narine countered by saying his client was not a flight risk and asked that the court to note that the incident occurred last year and his client did not leave the country.

He said Dr Muvvalla has worked in Trinidad and Tobago for the past five years and is employed at a hospital in Tobago, on contract, which was due to expire in 2015.

In granting bail, the magistrate ordered that the doctor surrender his travel documents and report to the police three times a week.

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Canon agrees to buy Toshiba medical unit

Canon Inc. agreed to buy Toshiba Corp.’s medical equipment unit for ¥665.5 billion ($5.9 billion) as the world’s biggest maker of cameras seeks new growth.

The deal will be funded by existing cash and borrowed funds, Tokyo-based Canon said in a statement Thursday. The agreement comes a day after unsuccessful bidder Fujifilm Holdings Corp. questioned Toshiba about the sale.

Toshiba, which makes everything from nuclear power equipment to laptop computers, flash memory chips and home appliances, is seeking to revive profits by narrowing the scope of its business lines. An accounting scandal has left the conglomerate in tatters, facing record losses, job cuts and potential spinoffs.

Canon is buying a business that makes diagnostic imaging systems such as MRI, X-ray and ultrasound equipment. It also puts the company into competition with General Electric Co., Royal Philips NV and Siemens AG for MRI machines that typically cost more than $100,000 each.

Canon is diversifying as smartphones with increasingly advanced cameras eat into its business. It also makes printers, fax machines and projectors while its existing health care business includes radiography and ophthalmic equipment, its website says.

“There is no reason to believe that the selection process wasn’t fair and that Canon is paying an unfairly low price,” said Damian Thong, an analyst at Macquarie Group Ltd. in Tokyo. Canon had ¥654 billion in cash and equivalents as of Dec. 31 with total debt of ¥1.6 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

On Thursday, Fujifilm disclosed that it had asked Toshiba a day earlier to explain how it decided to enter exclusive negotiations with Canon, and also cast doubt on Toshiba’s plan to complete the deal by the end of the fiscal year this month, citing the length of time usually needed to clear antitrust scrutiny.

The statement called on Toshiba to respond by 3 p.m. on Thursday. Instead, Toshiba announced that it reached an agreement with Canon.

Toshiba is seeking to raise money as it deals with the fallout from a major accounting scandal. The Tokyo-based firm granted Canon exclusive negotiation rights on March 9, passing over Fujifilm.

Another bidding group led by Konica Minolta Inc. was dropped after it offered less than what was sought. Toshiba chief Masashi Muromachi is divesting the medical unit, cutting jobs and considering a reorganization of its computer and TV operations as it forecasts a record loss for the year.

Toshiba’s health care division, which includes medical equipment and other businesses Toshiba doesn’t plan to sell, had sales of ¥409.5 billion in the previous fiscal year ending March 2015 and operating income of ¥23.9 billion, data compiled by Bloomberg says.

But Toshiba’s shares slumped on Thursday on news that it is under investigation by the U.S. over allegations that it hid $1.3 billion in losses at its nuclear power operations. The Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission are looking into whether fraud was committed, according to two people familiar with the matter. The stock declined 8 percent to ¥192 in Tokyo. Canon fell 1.4 percent, while Fujifilm fell less than 1 percent.

Toshiba’ agreement with Canon was announced after the market closed.


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The Jayco Difference

A Jayco RV is built to give you years of enjoyment at great value for money.
Here are nine reasons why Jayco is the right choice.

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Greatest value for money

Nearly 1 in 2 of all RVs in Australia is a Jayco and this gives us significant buying power for our components. Our Australian production line is second to none. Jayco is the most efficient RV manufacturer in Australia, which means we can pass benefits on to you – you get more for less. We’re in the business of exceeding your expectations and so Jayco includes great features as standard that other brands call options.

Most respected warranty

The Jayco Warranty program offers you 12 months of protection on your new Jayco. Relax on your holiday knowing that you are covered by Australia’s largest dealer and service network. This added peace of mind is one of the reasons more Australians choose Jayco than any other RV brand.

JTECH Suspension

Developed after an extensive two year testing program covering thousands of kilometres on second class roads, JTECH suspension has been designed specifically to keep your Jayco strong and safe under harsh Australian conditions. Delivering greater stability, a smoother ride, more precise handling and increased ground clearance without increased ride height, it makes towing easier than ever before.

Jayco Tough Frame

The tough, vacuum-bonded frame on premium Jayco RVs consists of five major ingredients, which makes it superior compared to conventional aluminium cladded RVs. A body shell constructed using fibreglass, polypropylene and polystyrene foam gives our vans better strength, lightness and insulation.

Jayco Endurance Chassis

Described by independent testers as the clever chassis, our hot dipped galvanised Endurance Chassis offers superior strength coupled with a smart, lightweight design. PSC members that support the floor are stronger yet lighter than inferior box section steel. The chassis is galvanised for long life while pressed holes offer protection for under-floor wiring and plumbing.

Most reliable power

Made specifically for Jayco, the Setec power converter is Australian-designed and constructed for reliable power supply in remote areas. This built-in fused power converter provides a safe 12V supply from 240V mains and delivers generous lighting on either 240V or 12V supply. When only 12V power is available, the unit is self-sensing and no switching is required.

Comprehensive roadside assistance

Jayco is the only RV manufacturer to offer you complimentary 3 years of Roadside Assist on your new van– 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. When you’re enjoying the freedom of touring, you can be reassured that Jayco is only a phone call away to support you in an emergency on the road.

Australia’s best service agent support

Jayco has a strong network of service centres across Australia to give you the support and expertise you need while on the road. With over 100 Jayco approved service centres nation-wide, our support network is the most comprehensive in Australia. Spare parts are also easily available for your absolute peace of mind.

Highest resale value

Along the way, your needs will change. You family may grow and you may need an upgrade. Or you may retire and want an RV that will take you on that long journey you’ve always dreamed about. Whatever your reasons to sell your Jayco, our vans hold their value better than any other brand on the market, making a Jayco the smarter investment.

Jayco Buyer’s Guide

Download our Buyer's Guide for essential questions and a handy checklist that will save you money and help you choose the right RV.

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Contact Jayco Sydney

63-67 Glossop Street, St Marys, NSW 2760
Phone: (02) 9623 1971   |   Email:

Connect with Jayco Sydney


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News & Analysis as of

Commercial Real Estate Agriculture Government Contracting

Read Commercial Real Estate Law updates, news, and legal commentary from leading lawyers and law firms:

Potential Future Takings Do Not Give Rise to Liability

by Brad Kuhn on

A new Court of Federal Claims opinion was handed down this month coming right out of our own Southern California backyard. The case, Stueve Bros. Farms, LLC v. the United States, deals with whether a "physical taking of...more

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Legal Alert: Federal Insurance Issues We Are Watching During Fall 2013

by Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP

The United States Congress has returned from its summer recess. On its first full day back in session, the U.S. House of Representatives passed (by a vote of 397-6) long-stalled legislation that would fundamentally alter the U.S. system for licensing insurance producers ("NARAB II"). While the House has passed similar legislation twice before, this year is the first time the full Senate is also preparing to take up NARAB II. Whether or not producer licensing tops your priorities list, House action on this bill is just the first step in what promises to be an active period of insurance public policy discussions at a national level. Indeed, while Syria, the debt ceiling, and budget showdowns are grabbing headlines, there is arguably more insurance activity occurring in Washington since before the enactment of the Dodd-Frank Act. In addition to activity on NARAB II, committees in both the House and Senate are preparing to hold hearings on the reauthorization of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act and hearings to reevaluate the impact of last year’s reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program.

Against this backdrop, the enduring debate over whether the federal government should have a greater involvement in regulating insurance will have fresh life when the long-expected Federal Insurance Office ("FIO") report on the modernization of insurance regulation is issued, possibly as soon as this month.

Excluding the ongoing activities surrounding healthcare reform, the following are highlights of federal activity impacting insurers that we will be following this Fall.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act1 (“TRIA”) – Last reauthorized in 2007, TRIA is set to expire on December 31, 2014, unless extended by Congress. TRIA was enacted following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks to address the near complete withdrawal of private terrorism coverage and provides commercial property and casualty insurers access to a federal backstop for certain large terrorism events. The trade-off for the backstop is that insurers of certain “covered lines” must make coverage available for losses resulting from certified Acts of Terrorism.

In 2002, the first-term Bush Treasury Department and a Republican-controlled Congress designed TRIA as temporary program to be in place for several years while a private terrorism coverage market developed. After an initial two-year extension in 2005, the second-term Bush Treasury Department and a then-Democratic Congress enacted compromise legislation that reauthorized TRIA for an additional seven years, expiring at the end of 2014.

Six years later, the current split Republican/Democratic Congress and the Obama Administration are skeptically reevaluating TRIA, seemingly hoping to find ways to increase private participation in the terrorism coverage marketplace.

The House Financial Services Committee is scheduled to begin its formal TRIA deliberations with a public hearing on September 19. The first panel of witnesses will be one or more members of Congress. This unusual witness panel could signal that politics may be more overt as the debate begins. The second panel of witnesses, however, will likely include a well-balanced variety of stakeholders, such as a catastrophe modeling expert, a TRIA-impacted policyholder, and advocates in favor of and opposed to TRIA reauthorization. The Senate Banking Committee indicates that it will have its own TRIA hearing as early as September 24, but in any event no later than Thanksgiving.

The House and Senate committees may approach TRIA from different perspectives, but their inquiries will likely start by asking whether the private market can take on more terrorism risk and what the possible impact would be were TRIA to expire. The 2005 reauthorization resulted in an increase in insurers’ deductibles and dropping some lines from the program. These steps were intended to start weaning the market from a public backstop. If history is a guide, those in favor of greater private market involvement could press for different TRIA triggers, higher deductibles, and more aggressive recoupment provisions.

While Congress schedules an initial round of TRIA hearings, the Treasury Department (on behalf of the President’s Working Group on Financial Markets) is required, statutorily, to perform many of the same inquiries and issue a report in 2013. On July 16, 2013, the Treasury Department published a request for comments to assist the President’s Working Group in preparing the third of three reports required under TRIA (earlier reports were published in 2006 and 2010).2 Interested parties wishing to comment on TRIA and the terrorism coverage market need to submit comments to Treasury by September 16, 2013.

Finally, the Federal Advisory Committee on Insurance (“FACI”) that was created in 2011 to provide input to FIO is scheduled to meet on September 18.  FACI’s tentative agenda includes a discussion of “perspectives on the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act of 2002.”3

This activity does not mean that either Congress or the Administration is likely to reach a conclusion on TRIA reauthorization much before the December 2014 expiration date. It does, however, mean that Washington officials are about to enter 15 months of discussing the role of insurance in the larger economy, the role of the federal government in catastrophic risk management and, unavoidably, the role of FIO in national insurance public policy development. This last topic will be fueled by the expected release of several highly anticipated reports from FIO (see discussion below).

National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”) – In contrast to the man-made peril underlying TRIA and the statutorily driven deadline to address TRIA reauthorization, the natural peril that underlies the NFIP has driven Congress to reexamine the program just 14 months after it voted overwhelmingly to reauthorize the NFIP for five years in the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 20124 ("Biggert-Waters"). Serious re-examination of the NFIP usually follows a major flooding event and while Superstorm Sandy certainly qualifies as a major event, the flood both the House and Senate are responding to by scheduling committee hearings this fall on NFIP reform implementation is not the kind of flood that motivated Noah.

Instead, Congress is reacting to a flood of constituent and state/local government complaints about the series of rate increases mandated when Congress reauthorized the NFIP last summer in Biggert-Waters. The rate increases, intended to end rate subsidies and relieve the much beleaguered, 40-year-old program of its $20+ billion debt, enjoyed considerable bipartisan and bicameral support until homeowners began receiving notice of new or increased flood insurance premiums required under the legislation their members of Congress supported just last summer.

Congress has a long history of supporting fiscally-responsible NFIP reforms while not wanting flood insurance requirements or rates to increase for their constituents. While it may be interesting to see members of Congress bash the implementation of legislation they overwhelmingly supported just last year, the real story to watch is how members reconcile their concerns about rate increases with the provisions of Biggert-Waters, that seek to expand private participation in the flood insurance and reinsurance market. In response to  explicit instructions from Congress, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) has more actively engaged private insurers and reinsurers to explore increased private participation in the flood coverage market than at any time since the late 1970s when the federal government expelled private insurers from the public-private flood risk pooling arrangement permitted by the original 1968 NFIP Act.

The Biggert-Waters debate will continue as Congress examines the role of the federal government in catastrophic risk management and insurance during the TRIA reauthorization process.

In 1999, as part of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act ("GLBA"), Congress enacted a law intended to force states to remove perceived obstacles to nationwide licensing of insurance producers. GLBA incentivized states to improve and increase the uniformity of insurer licensing laws and regulations by threatening the establishment of a national licensing authority that would preempt state authority if at least 29 states did not adopt uniform laws by November 2002. In response, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (“NAIC”) created several programs to standardize licensing requirements and to make the licensing process for non-resident agents and brokers more efficient. The states met the GLBA deadline, and the establishment of a National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers under the GLBA (so-called NARAB I) was avoided. However, the perception persists that nationwide uniformity has not been achieved, and that agents and brokers operating on a multistate basis face costly and unnecessary paperwork as a result of overlapping and inconsistent licensing requirements.

Industry response has been to press for federal legislation notwithstanding the work done by several states to achieve uniformity on their own. If enacted, the National Association of Registered Agents and Brokers Reform Act of 2013 (“NARAB II”) would create a private, not-for-profit corporation to serve as an interstate clearinghouse for non-resident producer licensure. The corporation would be governed by a panel dominated by current and former state insurance regulators who would establish standards for membership. An approved NARAB member would be able to utilize the clearinghouse for non-resident licenses in any other state. States would retain their regulatory jurisdiction over consumer protection, market conduct and unfair trade practices. States also would retain the right to license resident producers and to supervise, discipline, and set licensing fees for insurance producers. The bill is supported by the NAIC – not surprising given the bill’s preservation of the primacy of the state system in an area where there has been the loudest cry for national uniformity.

FIO Report

When Congress established FIO as part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, it charged FIO with evaluating and reporting to Congress on how to modernize and improve the system of insurance regulation in the U.S. Among other things, the report was to consider the degree of national uniformity of state regulation. The report remains unissued and is now more than 20 months beyond the due date set under Dodd-Frank. FIO Director Michael McRaith reportedly announced during a closed-door session with state insurance regulators in August that the report could be released as early as late September or early October.

Meanwhile, the Financial Stability Board (“FSB”) issued its Peer Review of the United States which, among other things, calls for U.S. authorities to promote greater regulatory uniformity in the insurance sector, including conferring additional powers and resources at the federal level where necessary. The FSB’s findings and other recommendations highlight fragmentation in the supervision of insurance groups under the current state system and favor an expanded role for FIO. It will be difficult for FIO to ignore the FSB’s findings and recommendations.

FIO also has two  unissued reports related to reinsurance: (1) a report describing the global reinsurance market and the role this market plays in supporting insurance in the U.S. (due September 30, 2012); and (2) a report describing the impact of the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act on state regulators’ access to reinsurance information for regulated companies in their jurisdictions (due January 1, 2013).

HUD Disparate Impact Rule

Earlier this year, the Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") promulgated a rule establishing a standard of liability for practices under the Fair Housing Act5 ("FHA") that have a disparate impact on a protected class, even if these practices are not motivated by discriminatory intent. The new rule provides that a practice has a discriminatory effect if it “actually or predictably results in a disparate impact on a group of persons or creates, increases, reinforces, or perpetuates segregated housing patterns because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.”6

Because HUD has interpreted the FHA to apply to the provision of homeowners’ insurance,7 the rule has raised significant concerns for insurers. The insurance industry has opposed HUD’s FHA interpretation on the basis that the imposition of disparate impact liability to insurers would severely disrupt long-established actuarial and ratemaking practices and would impair existing state regulation of insurance. The industry contends an essential element of setting insurance rates is the classification of insureds into groups through an accurate assessment of risk factors. This process necessarily differentiates among classes of individuals based on the level of risk of each class. In this process, insurers contend they have multiple incentives not to discriminate based on protected characteristics, because these characteristics have no bearing on risk factors for insuring property, and because state law typically prohibits insurers from considering such factors in their classification and rating decisions. However, the specter of disparate impact liability that could result from the unintended discriminatory effect of an insurance classification could force insurers to incorporate factors not linked to risk into their rating and classification practices. This would result in rates that are not rooted in sound insurance principles. Industry advocates further contend that because many states prohibit insurers from considering factors, such as race or religion in their rating decisions, insurers would be faced with the dilemma of either violating state law, or being subject to disparate impact liability. These perverse incentives would frustrate the operation of state laws regulating the business of insurance, in contravention of the reverse-preemption principle of the McCarran-Ferguson Act.

The issue of whether a disparate impact claim is cognizable under the FHA is currently before the United States Supreme Court in the case of Township of Mount Holly v. Mt. Holly Gardens Citizens in Action, Inc.8 HUD promulgated its disparate impact rule while the petition for writ of certiorari in this case was pending, so the rule itself is not specifically at issue in this case. However, HUD’s rule has been the focus of multiple amicus briefs in the Mt. Holly case in which the above arguments were laid out, including a joint brief filed by the major U.S. property/casualty trade associations. The United States Solicitor General filed a brief in which he argued a review of disparate impact liability under the FHA was unwarranted because HUD’s new rule had addressed the issue. The Court granted review, and a decision that disparate impact liability is unavailable under the FHA could effectively invalidate the rule. Oral arguments have not yet been scheduled.

The Federal Housing Finance Agency and Force-Placed Insurance

The Federal Housing Finance Agency ("FHFA"), which oversees the operations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, recently proposed restrictions on force-placed insurance. Specifically, in a notice dated March 29, 2013, the FHFA proposed rules that would prohibit the use of commissions and reinsurance by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in the force-placed insurance market. The notice provides 60 days for comment, and further states that, four months subsequent to the receipt of such comments, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will provide “aligned guidance to sellers and servicers, including implementation schedules related to these particular lender placed insurance practices.” Although the FHFA held a private meeting with “stakeholders” (i.e., banks, insurers, brokers, regulators, and representatives of trade and consumer groups) in June, reports indicate that the FHFA may delay enacting any reforms until next spring.10

The FHFA’s proposed restrictions came at approximately the same time that the New York Department of Financial Services ("DFS") entered into settlement agreements with the country’s largest force-placed insurers.  As a condition to the settlements, all force-placed insurers in New York agreed to implement reforms, which include restrictions on affiliate reinsurance transactions and commissions. In April 2013, Benjamin Lawsky, Superintendent of the DFS, sent a letter to other state insurance commissioners urging them to implement New York’s force-placed reforms nationwide.

FRB Gearing Up for Insurer Supervision Post-FSOC Designations

The Federal Reserve Board (“FRB”) remains an entity of much interest and concern for the insurance community as it moves closer to explaining just what Dodd-Frank “enhanced supervision” will mean to those insurers designated as systemic by Financial Stability Oversight Council.

1Pub. L. 107-297, 116 Stat. 2322.
2The Treasury Department’s July 16, 2013 request for comments can be found at the following link: The 2006 report can be found at, and the 2010 report can be found at
3The Treasury Department’s notice of this meeting can be found at the following link:
4Pub. L. No. 112-141, 126 Stat. 405 (codified as amended at 42 U.S.C. §§ 4001-4129).
542 U.S.C. §§ 3601-3631.
6See 24 C.F.R. § 100.500(a).
7See 24 C.F.R. § 100.70(d)(4).
8See Township of Mount Holly v. Mt. Holly Gardens Citizens in Action, Inc., 658 F.3d 375 (3d Cir. 2011), cert. granted, 80 U.S.L.W. 3711 (U.S. June 17, 2013) (No. 11-1507).
9The notice can be found at the following link:
10See Jeff Horwitz, FHFA to Hold Private Meetings on Force-Placed Insurance, American Banker (June 10, 2013).

DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.

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Not-So-Nice Lice

by FordHarrison
Contact Value: Nada, but a close shave; it’s lucky Dwight is clumsy and didn’t manage to insecticide-bomb his co-workers.

Whoa, Mama. It’s been a rocky start to the New Year for the staff of Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton office. With Jim working part-time and spending days on end in Philadelphia, Pam is struggling to cope with the kids (Cece and Phillip at home, and everyone else at work) all on her own. And things go from bad to worse when Cece comes down with a case of lice, which she spreads to Pam, who unwittingly gives the nasties to half the office.

Meredith is the first victim, and the entire office jumps to the conclusion that she’s to blame, while Pam guiltily keeps quiet about Cece’s condition. (Well — wouldn’t you assume it was Meredith?) Taking the bull by the horns, Meredith shaves her head, while Erin conducts a lice removal seminar for the rest of the victims (Angela, Oscar, Creed, Pete and Stanley) — leading to some hilarity as the infected group spends the day with mayonnaise on their heads.

I sympathized with Pam’s predicament, even more than usual because this is my first episode back from maternity leave. My baby daughter hasn’t encountered other kids yet, but the time will surely come when she’s bringing plenty of germs home from daycare and school, and I’m dreading it. I cringed when the office ganged up on Pam after her mom blabbed her secret culpability over speakerphone, although Pam certainly deserved a scolding for letting Meredith take the fall. (I do think my co-workers will be much more understanding if I bring kiddo germs to the office — they’re good people — but I’m going to try not to, nonetheless, and I’ll always come clean.)

Watching the Dunder Mifflinites freak out about their lice breakout, I started thinking about other germs and illnesses and how they run rampant through many offices. It’s predictable, really, especially during flu season. When people work in close quarters, they’re bound to share germs, despite best efforts at prevention.

This season is particularly bad for the flu (some cities have declared public health emergencies; my daughter’s pediatrician had 40 kids to see on the day of our last appointment), and companies would be wise to take preventative measures. While it may not be a litigation issue, it’s certainly a productivity issue; no employer wants half the workforce to be felled by a nasty virus.

– Some employers may choose to offer free or low-cost flu shots in the office, hand out bottles of hand sanitizer and free tissues, or provide disinfecting wipes for employees to clean their work spaces at the end of the day. Computer keyboards and telephones are particularly culpable in the spread of germs, and all employees should be encouraged to keep them as clean as possible.

– Employers also may consider being lenient with breaks to encourage employees to wash their hands frequently, since handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs.

– And if an employee does fall ill, companies can permit liberal use of sick leave — even adding days or instituting a leave bank from which employees can “borrow time” if they run out — to encourage people to stay home as long as they’re contagious, rather than rushing back to work only to infect others.

Fortunately, since the flu season began early, we can hope it will end early. But there will always be more germs. It may not be lice, and it may not be flu, but employers would be smart to encourage their workforce to practice good illness prevention techniques at any time. And don’t go too hard on the parents who bring their kids’ germs into the workplace — unless, of course, they let you take the fall for them and you end up shaving your head as a result. Then all bets are off.

DISCLAIMER: Because of the generality of this update, the information provided herein may not be applicable in all situations and should not be acted upon without specific legal advice based on particular situations.

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JD Supra does not sell, rent or otherwise provide your details to third parties, other than to the authors of the content on JD Supra.

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Family Fun on a Budget

June 26, 2015 Pearl 5

You can have fun with your family without breaking the bank.  Kids can easily adjust to almost anything, so, you wouldn’t have to worry about it.  Here are some tips to consider: Find a cheap spot.  This can be anything, like a trip to the beach which charges a minimal fee.  You can bring your own food and drinks.  Spending the whole morning till lunch at the beach for only $5 and gasoline is sure a cheap way to have fun with the whole family. Trade in the skillet for the grill.  Make a conscious effort to cut down on Read More


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Sunnies Cafe Megamall

Whenever there’s a newly-opened restaurant in SM Megamall, curiosity always kicks in, and you can expect to find lots of my officemates there, it’s like an extension of our cafeteria.  It’s no wonder that when my friends and I  had lunch, Sunnies Cafe was in our shortlist since it just recently opened.At first, we couldn’t decide on where to eat. I’m hopeless with suggestions when it comes to restaurants, I am always clueless and just rely on others to decide. This time though, because I’m back to blogging, I wanted a place I haven’t been to yet so that I can post about it in my blog, haha!

Sunnies Cafe is  a nice, cozy place. We were given a table in the corner which was quite small for the five of us, but it was fine, at least we didn’t have to raise our voices just to hear each other, quite conducive for small groups.

They have varied choices in their menu. We would have wanted to order their bone marrow meal but it wasn’t available. Lucky for me, I guess, because it wasn’t a healthy choice actually.

I’m not into pork but I still tried their Stovetop Pork Chops because it was highly recommended by their staff.  It looked half cooked and pale but it was good so I still consumed everything.

Stovetop Pork Chops (2-day brined chop, french beans, roasted marbled potatoes, scallion brown rice) P370

My friend ordered the Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken which she said was so oily. She even asked the staff what oil was used, haha! (That’s why she’s so slim!) Actually, even in this photo, the oil was so visible.

Honey Garlic Crispy Chicken (crispy chicken, pickled cucumber, cilantro lime rice). Php290

The Spicy Pomodoro (linguini, mixed seafood, anchovies, lemon, parsley) Php270

Crab Fat Rice Bowl (veggie omelette over crab fat fried rice) Php250. Next time I will definitely try this.

Though we’re officemates,  I think  our last lunch together was last year, so lunchbreak was not enough for us, lots of catching up to do, lots of stories, chismis, etc., LOL! I think we should do this more often so it wouldn’t take us almost 2 hours everytime, haha! Doing this quarterly would be better. So when’s our next? December, I hope 🙂

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1 Comment Posted

  1. The spicy pomodoro caught my fancy. I think that would be delicious! I love anchovies. The crab fat rice bowl looks interesting to try. I hope we have a Sunnies Cafe nearby, but tough luck with that. I live thousands of miles away.

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Flights from Warsaw to Khabarovsk

Cheap flights for the route Warsaw – Khabarovsk (WAW – KHV)

Jetradar will find you the cheapest airfare for Warsaw – Khabarovsk by comparing the costs of flights to Khabarovsk using 45 agencies, five booking systems, and 728 airlines. Where exactly you buy tickets for Warsaw – Khabarovsk is up to you.

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Jetradar suggests purchasing tickets for Warsaw – Khabarovsk in advance so you can choose your flight conditions and focus on your preferences and financial capabilities.

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Learning about Jewish culture, one Rabbi at a time

Interested in Jewish history and ritual? Involved in an interfaith relationship? Seeking conversion? Want to learn more about your Jewish neighbors, friends, or family members?

The 2016/2017 session begins October 13, 2016 and continues through February 16, 2017. Classes are held on Tuesdays from 7-8:30PM.

Organized and taught by the rabbis of The Synagogue Forum of Greater Dayton. The course offers an in-depth look at Judaism from Conservative, Orthodox/Traditional and Reform perspectives along with guest speakers who offer their insights and broaden exposure to the Jewish community.

Download the registration form & detailed schedule here

» For more information contact:
   - Rabbi Judy Chessin at (937) 435-3400, synagogueforum@gmail.com
   - Jodi Phares at (937) 610-1555, jphares@jfgd.net

Presented by the Synagogue Forum Of Greater Dayton; Beth Abraham Synagogue, Beth Jacob Congregation, Temple Beth Or, Temple Israel; with the support of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton


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Reform Movement’s Jacobs Attacks Netanyahu on Regulation, Muezzin Laws

15 Adar 5777 – March 13, 2017
On the Muezzin Bill, Netanyahu asked Jacobs if he hears a lot of Muezzin calls in New York City.

Regev, Elkin, to Establish Temple Mount Heritage Fund in Response to UNESCO

The new fund will be created in addition to the already existing Western Wall Heritage Fund.

Iranian FM: Netanyahu Distorts Jewish Scriptures

To be fair to the Israeli PM, the Persian king in the Megillah is in cahoots with Haman's plot to destroy all the Jews in his empire, and the reversal of his position is the essence of the Purim miracle.

Israel Rocks Shushan Purim in Jerusalem and Walled Cities!

15 Adar 5777 – March 12, 2017
During the day expect to see LOTS of costumes and happy faces in Jerusalem, especially around Safra Square, the biggest Purim street fair in the country.

Migdal Ha’Emek Disabled Residents’ Center Sends Purim Packages to City’s Children

Residents at the center worked together with volunteers for two days to prepare the mishloach manot gift baskets, thanks to a budget secured by the mayor.

Netanyahu to Children on Purim: Persians Won’t Succeed in Killing Us Today Either [video]

14 Adar 5777 – March 11, 2017
'They wanted to kill us,' the children finally roared, after some hesitation.

Report: US Pres. Trump Invites Palestinian Authority’s Abbas to White House

13 Adar 5777 – March 10, 2017
Special presidential adviser for international negotiations, Jason Greenblatt visits Israel next week.

Putin Gives Netanyahu 500 Year Old Copy of ‘The Jewish War’

'The Jewish War' (Latin Bellum Judaicum or De Bello Judaico) was Josephus' first work after arriving in Rome, following the repression of the Great Revold of the year 70.

Israeli Consul to Cairo Returns to Egypt

Israel's Ambassador to Egypt, David Guvrin, is continuing to work from Jerusalem for now.

DM Liberman to Secy of State Tillerson: Settlements No Obstacle to Peace

"Even the uprooting of 21 blossoming communities in Gaza didn't lead to peace, but rather, to rocket fire aimed at Israel."

Netanyahu Praises Russia’s Fight Against Sunni Terror, Warns No Place for Iran in Syria

The two men discussed the situation in Syria, in the context of joint efforts to combat international terrorism, and examined the main areas of bilateral cooperation.

Israel Wants Cannabis Export, Licenses 40 Farms

11 Adar 5777 – March 9, 2017
A year ago, Health Minister Jacob Litzmann (UTJ) objected on moral grounds to exporting cannabis, but he appears to have changed his mind and voted to approve the new proposed legislation.

Remains of Wartime Fallen Found at Ramat Rachel, Jerusalem

At the site of the battle were found the remains of the trenches, along with 35 bunkers and caves.

Swiss Government to De-Fund BDS in Israel, Palestinian Authority

11 Adar 5777 – March 8, 2017
Swiss lawmakers send about one million Swiss francs each year to an anti-Israel umbrella organization in Ramallah.

Israel Considers Options to Buy US Warplanes, Helicopters

Pence and Liberman agreed during their meeting on the need to "counter threats posed by Iran and its proxies as well as terrorist organizations."

Sea Knight Fleet to Protect Israel’s Coast [video]

The IDF will use the vessels to patrol the Gaza coastline and to help defend southern Israel in times of war.

Best Ever February for Foreign Tourism in Israel

25% Increase in the first two months of 2017 compared with Jan-Feb 2016.

President Rivlin Asking Boris Johnson to Send the Queen Over

It's doubtful the Royals would set foot on Jerusalem's soil any time soon, especially not on the anniversary of their country's promise to establish a homeland for the Jews.

Report: Bennett Ultimatum to Netanyahu – No Amona Relocation, No V15 Legislation

The bill was scheduled for a debate at the Knesset Committee, but was withdrawn at the last-minute due to objections from Habayit Hayehudi.

Utilight to Launch Manufacturing Plant on Gaza Border

The company will invest close to $5.5 million in the new venture, with a $1.01 million investment from Economy Ministry Investment Authority.

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Al-Qaeda warns: ‘We are coming’ to Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa mosque

The Al-Aqsa mosque on the Temple Mount. Credit: Godot13 via Wikimedia Commons.

(Israel Hayom/Exclusive to Posters glorifying the 9/11 hijackers and late terrorist leader Osama bin Laden were displayed in the city of Mukalla in Yemen this week in a three-day event dubbed “O Aqsa, We Are Coming,” organized by Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The event’s title refers to the Al-Aqsa mosque on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.

According to a report by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI), the AQAP-affiliated Al-Athir media agency shared photos from the first evening of the event on Twitter, showing hundreds of people, many of them youths, in attendance.

The event, which began Wednesday, features several activities, including Islamic music performances, martial arts, speeches, and video presentations. Posters displayed at the event show several deceased Al-Qaeda commanders, including bin Laden, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, and Saeed al-Shihri.

The MEMRI report said that the phrase “O Aqsa, we are coming,” has become almost an official sign-off for AQAP in any productions by its official media arm, al-Malahem.

Posted on March 4, 2016 .


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Latest Horror Movie Headlines

Fantastic Fest unveils 8 finalists for AMD & DELL Next Wave Filmmaker Spotlight

09.13.2010by: Jake Dee

Fantastic Fest 2010 kicks off in a mere ten days, and it seems this year's crop of AMD & DELL Next Wave Filmmaker finalists are in. Not only will the winner enjoy a screening of their nominated film, they will be awarded with $1,000 in cash and AMD & DELL editing hardware. Pretty sweet gig...

To be presented September 28th - the following is a list of the eight nominees and their respective feature:

BEDEVILLED (2010) North American Premiere, South Korea, director: Cheol-soo Jang - If you beat, brutalize, dehumanize and torment a country girl for her entire life, take note: when she reaches the breaking point, you’d best hide the farm implements.

CORRIDOR (2009) North American Premiere, Sweden, directors: Johan Lundborg & Johan - Storm Lonely medical student Frank is pleased with his flat, a quiet place to focus on his coming exams. But when he meets the girl upstairs, his peace and quiet, his sanity and possibly even his life become jeopardized.

NORWEGIAN NINJA (2010) International Premiere, Norway, director: Thomas Cappelen - Malling Norwegian Ninja is the true story of how Commander Arne Treholt and his Ninja Force saved Norway during the Cold War. In 1983 the Ninja Force discovers that the Shadow Government, who take charge in times of war and emergency, are planning a coup-d'état in peacetime. Treholt and the ninjas see only one solution: a full can of whoop-ass!

PRIMAL (2010) North American Premiere, Australia, director: Josh Reed - Primordial nature runs amuck in a smartly played, scripted, spectacular slice of neo Ozploitation. 12,000 years ago a caveman tried to communicate the presence of an unknown primal entity only to be devoured by the Neanderthal evil. Now six friends on a field trip set up camp in the same remote wilderness.

RAMMBOCK (2010) North American Premiere, Germany, director: Marvin Kren - Hoping to rekindle the sparks with his ex-girlfriend, Michael makes a surprise visit to her apartment in the city. Bad timing. As luck would have it, this is also the same day the zombie outbreak hits Berlin.

RARE EXPORTS: A CHRISTMAS STORY (2010) US Premiere, Finland, writer: Juuso Helander - A film for those who think they don't believe in Santa Claus anymore. In the depths of the Korvatunturi mountains, 486 metres deep, lies the closest ever guarded secret of Christmas. The time has come to dig it up! This Christmas everyone will believe in Santa Claus.

SOMOS LO QUE HAY (WE ARE WHAT WE ARE) (2010) US Premiere, Mexico, director: Jorge Michel Grau - When the patriarch of the family passes away, the teenage children must take responsibility for the family chores: the preparation of the rituals, the hunting and putting the all-important meat on the table. These new-found responsibilities are even more daunting, however, when you live in the city and happen to be a family of cannibals.

UNDOCUMENTED (2010) World Premiere, USA, director: Chris Peckover - A small group of documentary filmmakers chronicle the trials and inequities faced by Mexican illegal immigrants. When they join a group of families illegally crossing the border to record the experience firsthand, their truck is pulled over and detained. What happens next plunges their group into unimaginable horror.

For more on the festivities, check out Fantastic Fest's Official Site.

Alona Tal stars in UNDOCUMENTED!

Extra Tidbit: Which flick do you think will nab the top prize?
Source: Fantastic Fest

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Its elegance will fascinate you, its agility will inspire you and its presence will impress you. The BMW X6 unites agility, performance and athletic design in a large BMW coupé with the versatility and raised seating position normally only found in an SAV. Once again BMW has defined a completely new vehicle concept.

And if that isn't impressive enough, the BMW X6 also offers two world premieres: standard Dynamic Performance Control and the completely newly developed TwinPower Turbo V8 petrol engine with direct petrol injection – the most efficient engine in its class. It also features BMW EfficientDynamics, a technology package that provides increased driving dynamics with lower fuel consumption. The package includes technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, air vent control and intelligent lightweight construction. Experience a coupé like no other.

Simply impressive.

The exterior of the BMW X6.

The BMW X6 is a sporty, agile addition to the BMW X family. The side view shows the elegant proportions of a BMW Coupé. The roofline flows down to the rear end cutoff in a gentle curve. The overhang stretches the silhouette, while two “character lines” underscore the dynamic wedge shape. When seen from the front and rear, all the typical BMW X characteristics are in evidence: the horizontal lines and prominent wheel arches emphasise the power, breadth and presence of the BMW X6.

Sport for all your senses.

The interior of the BMW X6.

The interior of the BMW X6 accentuates an active lifestyle, with functional detail solutions crafted to the very highest standards. A wide choice of materials (like the Leather Alcantara option) and interior trim offers a broad range of high-quality combinations. The leather on the exclusive optional leather cladding for the dashboard and door panels even has special padding for enhanced haptic quality.

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Is Zohydro the next addiction creator?

I’m just as sick of writing about opioids as you are reading about them.

But the FDA’s approval of Zohydro, yet another highly-addictive, easily-abused opioid – the fourth in the last four years – requires our attention.

I’ve been trying to ignore the Zohydro story but today’s excellent piece in WorkCompCentral reminds us just how difficult the battle is. Zohydro is a very powerful, “extended release” opioid pill.  The problem is this; while the drug is formulated to allow the opioid to gradually “leak out” into the blood stream, abusers can get all the opioids into their system at once by crushing, dissolving, or melting the pill.

No one I have spoken with – or quoted in the WCC piece – understands why the FDA would approve Zohydro without tamper-resistance; some form of chemical or other method that prevents this crushing/dissolving/melting/burning process.  Many drugs on the market today have this type of modification.

But they did.  And we’re stuck with it.

So, what do we do?  Here are a few ideas.

  • Require all use of Zohydro is pre-authorized, and only allowed after failure on other, much less potent medications.
  • Require (where possible) substitution of one of the abuse-deterrent medications for Zohydro.
  • Monitor physician prescribing patterns, and intervene with docs/practices prescribing Zohydro.  Let them know you are watching, require proof of medical necessity, and constantly monitor their patients.  Require drug testing, opioid agreements, evaluation of pain and functionality.
  • Reach out to ALL docs who write scripts for Zohydro letting them know your policy. Do this early.

It comes down to the docs who treat your claimants.  If you have the right docs, this won’t be a problem.  If you have to work with all docs, monitor, manage, intervene.

Yes, it is a LOT of work.  But it is a LOT less work than dealing with more addicted claimants.

What does this mean for you?

Fortunately, most payers are far better prepared to deal with Zohydro than they were a few years ago.  Get ready, and measure how many claimants are taking Zohydro on a weekly basis.  That’s the metric to measure success.

2 thoughts on “Is Zohydro the next addiction creator?

  1. Joe, there is really only one other “abuse deterrent” long-acting opioid on the market, and that is Oxycontin. Opana ER is only crush resistant (but still crushable).
    I would suggest that this be the policy of ALL long-acting opioids, and not just Zohydro.

  2. Great recommendations Joe. I would suggest that companies stop this at first-fill. This should be challenged from the initial RX. Organizations should require the subscribing provider to document the medical necessity, why use this medication over abuse-deterrent medications. Many states have developed additional requirements for prescribing controlled substances and managing pain with narcotics, including drug monitoring requirements. In addition to EBM, this can be a resource for organizations questioning subscribing patterns. Go to The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) to link to the individual state requirements.

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JoinCalifornia: Election History for the State of California

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Source: Directory of the California Legislature. Twenty-First Session, 1875-6 by William Halley (1876)

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Active Management vs. Indexing

The article “ Fear, Greed and the Madness of Markets ” ( JofA , Apr.03, page 79) was well-done, up to a point. The commentary about emotions driving many investors’ decisions was right on. Buying high and selling low is the norm for many, including most of the highly paid professionals upon whom the public relies.

However, like many investment articles the JofA has published, it was skewed in avoiding mention of the best proven route for the average investor—simple, low-cost index funds. While “the sage of Omaha” is referenced in the article, Warren Buffett’s bias toward index funds is conspicuously avoided in the commentary. Buffett has noted in his annual reports the average investor would be better off avoiding Wall Street and investing in index funds (excluding Berkshire Hathaway Inc. stock, which has outperformed the averages for decades).

Similar to most articles published by the money management community, two sentences in the article, in particular, advocate the need for the average investor to use a professional investment adviser: “Smart investors rely on investment professionals who are highly knowledgeable about behavioral finance—a discipline that carefully analyzes how individual and group psychology influences investor behavior and market trends” and “As many CPAs already know, all it takes is the right adviser—and the right tools.” The inference is, properly selected, active investment advisers have the answers to produce results the average person can’t possibly attain. This is just not so. The average person has at his disposal the means, through index fund investing, to outperform the vast majority of both mutual fund managers and professional advisers, for minimal fees.

Unfortunately, while the article would like the reader to conclude that seeking professional advice is the “right tool” to cure poor investment performance, statistical evidence points to the contrary. More than 80% of mutual funds and money managers fail to outperform the averages such as the S&P 500, Wilshire 5000 and Morgan Stanley emerging markets index—in almost any critical period analyzed. And while they fail to produce, they charge banner fees (over 1% of assets), win or lose. Would you buy a refrigerator or car if the failure rate was predicted at 80% over the life of the appliance with no chance for a refund when the gadget proved to be a lemon? Try getting your fees back from a mutual fund or money manager that produces subpar results—which most do.

While there is a place for stellar active managers in some portfolios, the power and track record of indexing has proven, simplistic as it is, to be the most effective place for the average individual’s investing assets.

A perusal of Vanguard’s Web site, in particular the material put forth by the founder, John Bogle, further documents the power of indexing. Charles Schwab is also a proponent of the concept.

I can understand why much of Wall Street and professional advisers don’t want to tout the real story. The highly paid investment professionals would be flipping hamburgers instead of wallowing in the Hamptons on warm sunny weekends.

I think the JofA does an excellent, consistent job in publishing high-quality content, but why it continues to present articles implying active management is the answer for the individual investor requires some explaining.

Robert Preston, CPA
Danbury, Connecticut

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U.S. expects Iran sanctions to bear results within two months
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U.S. expects Iran sanctions to bear results within two months

WASHINGTON (JTA) — The Obama administration expects a significant drop in foreign dealings with the Central Bank of Iran in the next two months.

U.S. officials launched a campaign to have countries that deal with Iran to comply with new sanctions as soon as President Obama signed them into law on Dec. 31, a senior administration official said Wednesday in a briefing for Israeli and Jewish media.

The sanctions in the law target third parties that deal with Iran’s financial and energy sectors; for years the United States has banned dealings by its own citizens with those sectors.

The sanctions on non-petroleum dealings with Iran’s financial sector kick in within 60 days of the signing, and the Obama administration expects "significant" changes by that time.

Sanctions on Iran’s energy sector are expected to have an effect within three months, the official said, reflecting the timelines for such sanctions written into the law.

Much of the effort has focused on persuading nations that deal with Iran to diversify their intake of oil from other suppliers, notably Saudi Arabia and Libya, or conversely on having those countries use the sanctions as leverage to force Iran to heavily discount its oil.

In the latter case, the countries would agree to backchannel deals with Iran to avert U.S. sanctions and demand a cut in price as compensation.

There are signs that China and India, both major purchasers of Iranian oil, already have responded, the official said. China has sought discounts from the Iranians and is seeking to diversify its intake, as is India, the official said.

The overall goal of the sanctions is to cut income to Iran. The official said the Obama administration has calculated that the sanctions will not affect U.S. gasoline prices.


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anti-resolutionTwo years ago I wrote a blog post that grabbed the attention and touched the heart of none other than Katie Davis, who is now one of my very best friends. It was titled, 2012 Anti-Resolution Revolution. Katie was so inspired by that post, she created her own special tool to capture her accomplishments throughout the year and evaluate them at the end. She has graciously offered to share this workbook with you – click here for more info.

Here is an excerpt from the original post:

It is so tempting to start listing all the things one wants to accomplish at the start of a New Year, but in my experience, the process (and thus the result) is flawed.

I believe the reason resolutions often don’t work is because they start from a place of lack, of negativity, of failure.  We think about all the things we weren’t happy with in the previous year and set out to “fix” them in the new one…  Lose weight = I weigh too much…  Make more money = I don’t have enough money.  Write more often = I don’t write enough

There is absolutely nothing wrong with setting goals, and achieving them is even better.  However, the goals need to be set on a strong foundation.  So I figured, why not start with what I did accomplish this year and set goals from there.  Let’s first celebrate success and then determine how to carry that forward into the New Year, rather than berating ourselves for what did not get done..

I didn’t write a similar post in 2013, but I should have. It is CRITICAL to reflect on what you DID accomplish in the previous year. How else can you build from the base you already have? If you don’t take the time to tally up and celebrate what you’ve already accomplished, your resolutions will crumble. You’ll be starting from scratch in every category, and starting from scratch feels scary.

Here is what GOALS (vs. resolutions) look like when crafted this way. Lose weight = What did I do last year to improve my health, and what can I do to continue that progress? Make more money = How much money did I make last year, from which sources, and how can I increase output from those sources and add new ones? Write more often = What did I write this year and how am I going to use that writing in the new year while also writing new stories/articles/books, etc.?

Here’s an example from my own year. All year long, in my head, I lamented how little writing I got done. So much so that by the end of the year I was sure I’d done almost nothing. Yesterday, when I tallied it all up, I was pleasantly to find I’d written far more than I thought I had. I had written full drafts that I’d completely forgotten about. Drafts that I can continue revising and working with this year.

I am a firm believer that it takes far more courage to celebrate and compliment yourself than it does to criticize and berate yourself. So let’s get started.

Here is a list of my major professional accomplishments of 2013.

In addition to this list, I ran the 12 x 12 challenge all year, wrote new drafts and revised existing ones, and continued to contribute to Katie Davis’ Brain Burps About Books podcast. Whew! I’ll be sure to come back to this whenever I feel discouraged about how much I “don’t get done.” 🙂

Now it’s your turn to make YOUR list!

Categories: 12 x 12, A Shiver of Sharks, A Troop is a Group of Monkeys, Agents, Apps, Authors, Bologna Children's Book Fair, Brain Burps About Books, Children's Books, Crowdfunding, Digital Publishing, ebooks, Florence, Goals, Holidays, How I Got My Agent, Italy, PiBoIdMo, Picture Books, Publishing, Queries, SCBWI, Social Media, Storybook Apps, Travel, Video Idiot Boot Camp, Works in Progress, Writer's Renaissance, Writing · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

At last I am able to reveal the BIG NEWS I’ve been alluding to regarding the publication of my next picture book. I will be crowdfunding the illustration, production, design and first run printing through Kickstarter.

Furthermore, I am inviting my fellow writers to come along with me in this journey. I know many of you are interested in crowdfunding but aren’t sure where to start, what the benefits and risks are, or how to set up a campaign for success.

As part of my role as the “Field Guide to 21st Century Publishing” for Children’s Book Insider, I am putting my own rear on the line so you don’t have to. Follow along as I share successes, failures, decisions, and outcomes. And at the end of this journey, whether I succeed or fail, the entire experience, in collaboration with CBI, will be consolidated into some type of “How To” guide to crowdfunding for children’s authors.

Watch this short video for all the details (cliff notes version below), and be sure to come back every day this week as I continue the Why Crowdfund? series. Oh, and WISH ME LUCK!! 🙂

Cliff Notes version for folks who can’t/won’t watch the video

  • I am crowdfunding the initial production and printing of my next picture book.
  • This is NOT a self-publishing project, but rather a HYBRID publishing project. The video explains this in more detail, but essentially, although I put the team together, I had an agent help me with the contracts, and I have a publisher for the book.
  • The personal reason I decided to experiment with crowdfunding for this particular book is because, although I believe it is a beautiful book and will resonate with many readers, it is probably a tough sell in NYC right now. The video explains in more detail.
  • The professional reason I decided to run this crowdfunding experiment was to do something unique, exciting, and beneficial to other writers as part of my role as the “Field Guide to 21st Century Publishing” for CBI.
  • Will I succeed? Will I fail? Come along for the journey and see for yourself!

Be sure to come back each day this week as I take on Why Crowdfunding Parts II – V. Here are the list of topics.

Tuesday, Why Crowdfunding Part II: Creative Control

Wednesday, Why Crowdfunding Part III: Experiment with New Publishing Models, Teach and Share with Fellow Writers

Thursday, Why Crowdfunding Part IV: Timing

Friday, Why Crowdfunding Part V: Demonstrating Demand PRIOR TO Publication

Have questions? Leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them. Hope you’ll join me for this crazy adventure!

Categories: Agents, Children's Books, Creativity, Picture Books · Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore. The short film version of this app (which is also a storybook app) won an Oscar this year. I think that

ETA 8/12 — This post is still relevant today, but I have answered quite a number of my own questions since its publication. The best of my knowledge is now contained in a template I wrote for authors and illustrators to help them organize their thinking in order to write, illustrate (if applicable) and submit a storybook app proposal to an e-publisher, a developer or to use an app creation tool to develop it themselves. It’s called Julie Hedlund’s Template for Storybook App Proposals. It includes, as a bonus, a list of e-publishers accepting submissions and companies offering app creation tools.

If, after reading this post, you think the template might be helpful, you can find more information here.

As some of you may know, I am committed to taking the story I entered in last year’s MeeGenius Children’s Author Challenge and developing it into an app.  I’ve been doing quite a bit of research, yet I feel I’ve only just begun my descent into the rabbit hole.  In reality this post should be titled, How to start THINKING about Creating a Storybook App.  There is a huge morass of information out there, much of it inconsistent.  It seems nobody has written Storybook Apps for Dummies yet.  I thought I’d take a crack at the very basics.

First, authors who are also illustrators have a distinct advantage in app development.  One reason it’s been so challenging to find information is because there are precious few resources geared toward “authors only” who have ideas for apps, beyond telling them to partner with an illustrator.  The best information I’ve found so far has been at e is for book, a blog written by a group of traditionally published, professional children’s book authors and illustrators who are working on various digital book projects, and Digital Kid’s Author, author Karen Robertson’s website.

Karen wrote the app “Treasure Kai and the Lost Gold of Shark Island,” a treasure hunt adventure book.  Recently, Karen spoke on Publishing Insiders Blog Talk Radio series on Secrets to Creating Children’s Book Apps (the show is still available; you can listen for free).  On the show, Karen discussed 5 steps to app creation.  All of these steps assume the text is written, edited and ready to be developed into an app.

  1. Decide what kind of app you want to create: Think about how much interaction you want in the story. Think about what animation might enhance (vs. detract from) the story.  Do you want a “read to me” option, which requires narration?  Do you want touch-based animation?  Special sounds?
  2. Create a brief for your app: This is a document that details the text, illustration, sounds/narration and animation that goes on each page. Unlike a manuscript for a traditional picture book submission, here the author and/or illustrator does suggest page turns because they are critical to developing the interactive components of the app.
  3. Create art for your app: Again, this is where illustrators have an advantage because they can both write and illustrate the app.  If you are an author looking to partner with an illustrator, look for one that can work digitally.  Ideally, the art is created using digital layers to produce the best animation effects.
  4. Decide what narration, sounds and animation you want: Do you want music in your app?  Do you need to hire a narrator?  Do you have sound sprites planned (touch-based animation that triggers a sound, for example an animal noise or a drum beating)?
  5. Build the app: This is where the app developer comes in.  The developer creates the code that turns the static story and illustrations into an interactive app.  You can hire an independent developer or work with a company that specializes in app development.  An advantage of an independent developer is that they can usually create custom code for features specific to your app.  You might also be able to retain ownership of that code.  A disadvantage is being reliant on that person to maintain and update your app for its lifetime.  Development companies typically have expertise in app development, and will code your app based upon their platforms.  This might provide less flexibility for custom animation, but companies continue to become more sophisticated in their offerings.  Companies will almost always provide the maintenance and updates for your app on an ongoing basis.  Some companies even offer do-it-yourself drag and drop interfaces.

Our VERY favorite storybook app!

After listening to the radio show and skimming through Karen’s e-book, I am still left with the question of what authors are supposed to submit to app development companies in terms of proposals.  Is it just a manuscript?  A full brief?  Should it include a marketing plan?  I have Googled storybook app “template,” “proposal,” “submission,” “brief,” “specification,” six hundred ways to Sunday and still haven’t come up with a good answer.

In two weeks, I’ll be in Bologna, Italy attending the O’Reilly Tools of Change for Publishing Conference, focused exclusively on the children’s market.  I’m writing articles for SCBWI and The Children’s Book Insider.  Many industry thought-leaders will be in attendance, so I am hoping to dig much deeper into these issues on behalf of authors and illustrators.  Stay tuned!  I probably won’t be able to blog in real-time while I am there, but I will be tweeting and posting snippets and updates on my Facebook Author page if you are interested.

I know some of you reading already have experience creating storybook apps.  Any advice to share?  Does anyone have questions they’d like me to get to the bottom of in Bologna?  Leave feedback in the comments!

Categories: Apps, Authors, Children's Books, Digital Publishing, ebooks, Picture Books, Publishing, Queries, SCBWI, Self Publishing, Storybook Apps, Works in Progress, Writing · Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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