NationStates Jolt Archive

Organ Farming Conference

To: All Participating Nations (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=83070&highlight=)
From: Foreign Relations Director Gordon Newell
Subject: Organ Farming Conference

We are ready to accept your delagates at the Los Polverines International Airport. Learjets will be met by a 'greeting party' and driven over to the venue by Oglethorpian government staff.

We will break halfway through the conference and provide a lunch.

-- Gordon Newell
Foreign Relations Bureau

The Commonwealth of Oglethorpia

---

Commercial District Convention Center
2:32 PM OST, Los Polverines, Porlamar, Oglethorpia

The Commercial District Convention Center sat right on the edge of Los Polverines' downtown, nestled in right next to skyscrapters that towered above the 10 story structure.

The Convention Center itself was a fine all glass building. From the street was a path roughly 40 feet in length, well-kept gardens on either side of it. The delegates would be led through it's off-white/tan colored interior to the largest of the convention halls.

This room was carpeted in a nondescript tan-colored carpet, directly facing the doors the "judge's panel;" a raised seating arrangement that seated six, for the conference's purposes, the moderators of the conference. Behind this on a plastered off-white colored wall was a great Oglethorpian flag, maybe 10 feet in width and 7 ft tall.

http://oglethorpia.free-host.com/images/oglethorpia_big.gif

Finally, to either side of the large floor space from the panel to the doors were banks of seats to the right and left, each capable of holding two dozen people. These banks of seats were arranged like those in a stadium, upon each seat a neat little card listing the name of the delegate. The only people in the room were State Director Andrew Kreins, Agraculture/Industry Director Larry Hudson, Moderator Marcus Finch and Heart Surgeon Lance Castellon.

There was brief conversation behind the four, to act as the greeting party and to moderate the conference.

"So, what's the plan again?" Kreins asked.
"Conference, break halfway, then serve up food," Hudson said.
"Right," Kreins replied.

Los Polverines International Airport
2:43 PM OST, Los Polverines, Porlamar, Oglethorpia

Next to the temporary shelter for arriving lear jets was a single black Kuruma Perennial sedan; in it sat Foreign Relations Bureau advisor Clayton Raulston and a single bodyguard, both clad in black suits, Clayton in a red tie and the bodyguard with a dark blue one.

Foreign Relations Advisor Raulston waited to greet and drive over the arriving delegates to the Convention Center and make the necessary small talk.

---

OOC: Go ahead and begin RPing arrivals folks.

Los Polverines International Airport
3:56 PM OST, Los Polverines, Porlamar, Oglethorpia

Dr. Lanpa, along with his group of 7 other aides and 3 people from Foreign Affairs Ministry and a bodyguard, stepped out of their Learjet at this bright afternoon. Breathing the fresh air, Dr. Lanpa, dressed in a "Mao Suit" style suit, stepped out first.

"Good place, Oglethorpia, don't you think, Comrade Lin?", he asked one of his aides, in a happily but "urgent" fashion.

"Very good, very good, sir. Where are we going to stay anyways?", Lin asked quickly.

"Not yet, not yet."

As the group of delegates arrived near Raulston, Dr. Lanpa stepped out. He greeted Raulston with almost perfect English, and extended his hand:

"I'm Dr. Honjak Lanpa, from the Omzian State Biology Academy, along with my aides from the Science and Technology Ministry, and Foreign Affairs Ministry. Glad to meet you, Comrade Raulston."

"Greetings Doctor Lanpa," Raulston said, shaking the man's hand firmly. "The pleasure is mine."

He looked towards the waiting Kuruma Perennial, then back to the Doctor. "Shall we head over to the Convention Center?" Raulston asked kindly.

On a smooth and steady approach to the runway, the Harukaze 100-S Luxury jet displays its majestic curves and form.

Aboard sit some of Western Asia's experts in the field of Synthetic Tissue Production and Implantation (Commonly known in Western Asian scientific circles by the acronym of 'STPI'). As is predictable, representatives of some of the major organ growing companies also are tagging along...ever seeking to expand their market beyond the borders of Western Asia.

The jet now sets down smoothly on the Tarmac and is soon being taxied to the prepared area for the formal introductions and presentations.

Already present and waiting, the Western Asian ambassador to Oglethorpia has come with a small fleet of cars to transport his fellow countrymen during the conference.

The Press Corps, as usual, stands ready at attention.

"Greetings Doctor Lanpa," Raulston said, shaking the man's hand firmly. "The pleasure is mine."

He looked towards the waiting Kuruma Perennial, then back to the Doctor. "Shall we head over to the Convention Center?" Raulston asked kindly.

Dr. Lanpa had a good feeling --- about both the conference, and his rare stay at Oglethorpia, as an Omzian.

Then, he replied with excitement, but firmly. "Of course, we shall. We should get this conference up and running as soon as possible, after other delegates arrives.

Raulston looked at the bodyguard -- he gave a nod.

"If you'll excuse me, I must greet the Western Asian delegation," Raulston said, recognizing the fine jet from Reploid Productions.

"Very well, we will contact with our ambassador and other representives of our land, already waiting," Lanpa said quickly but clearly.

Dr. Lanpa and his several other aides --- including representives from organ growing labs and even 2 press journalists, walked towards the luxury cars, marked with the Omzian flag and the bright emblem with a red star.

Then, he greeted in Omzian, in a military fashion, with the Omzian Ambassador.

"Comrade Zankarb, nice to meet you again. Old times..."

Los Polverines International Airport - 4:30 pm

The Vrakian civilian jet approached Los Polverines International and began its descent. They had come from a long ways and were eager for the journey to be over.

“I’ve heard about Oglethorpia before. They make pretty good beer,” exclaimed Trug Pruvolit, rolling his great head to view his companion.
“Aye, yes they do,” replied Jok Mior, “Besides, this is a welcome break from all that cloning research. Always good to get away from the lab.”
The two walruses chuckled.

Soon the jet landed on the airstrip and taxied to its designated spot.

Foreign Relations Advisor Ben Weinstein was on hand to greet the arriving Vrakians.

"Greetings," he began, "and welcome to Oglethorpia." Weinstein waited for the Vrakians to exit their jet.

The two walruses eased their way down the specialized ramp. Spotting Ben Weinstein, they waddled over and bowed their heads.

"Greetings! I am Trug Pruvolit, chief scientist representing one of our clone research labs of Apollo foods and this," indicating with a wave of his flipper,"is Jok Mior, a Health Department official of the Royal Vrakian government."
"Greetings!" echoed Jok.

"Pleasure to meet you," Weinstein said to the two.

"Shall we make our way over to the Convention Center?" he asked.

"Lead the way."

The walruses looked at eachother, Ben, and the landscape.

OOC: Oglethorpia's mostly tropical in climate.

Not much was left of the rainforest Los Polverines was located around; all the palm trees were grown elsewhere and transplanted in.

Ben led the way to a black sedan; a roomy Kuruma Perennial four-door sedan, with all the government's bells and whistles build into the vehicle.

He beckoned for the walruses to enter the vehicle, Ben soon getting into the passenger seat, the bodyguard taking over driving duties.

"So, what exactly do you do in the clone reserach labratory?" Ben asked inquisitively.

An well-aged Dr. Bob Langer steps out of the plane doorway and onto a waiting set of stairs. The Chairman of the Tissue Synthesis Control Board (TSCB) looks healthy for his advanced age. His mind remains as clear and sharp as it was when his old lab developed the first step towards modern tissue and organ synthesis so many years before.

He is followed shortly by the respected and powerful Dr. Sara Long, who is the Science and Technology Advisor on the President’s Cabinet, who stands close to her elderly colleague and friend.

Behind her comes a team of four prominent surgeons and general physicians who have been put forward as leaders in their field by the TSCB and the National Association of Surgeons: Drs. Michael ‘Mikey’ Fields, Jessica Taper, Ron Liebermann, and Ben Neuman.

Behind this esteemed crowd comes the businessmen of the field—the salesmen. This team of representatives of major organ growers and vendors have arrived eager to get to their work. In the competitive high-tech field of human organ synthesis, the producers are always looking for ways to expand their markets beyond the liberal markets of Western Asia and into emerging markets across the world.

OOC: Sorry for the slow reply...my computer is wanking out on me and it's a pain to even get IE to work.

OOC: No prob, but i'm afraid I need to go to bed now.

Will post a nice, lengthy reply tomorrow.

OOC: Oglethorpia's mostly tropical in climate.

Not much was left of the rainforest Los Polverines was located around; all the palm trees were grown elsewhere and transplanted in.

Ben led the way to a black sedan; a roomy Kuruma Perennial four-door sedan, with all the government's bells and whistles build into the vehicle.

He beckoned for the walruses to enter the vehicle, Ben soon getting into the passenger seat, the bodyguard taking over driving duties.

"So, what exactly do you do in the clone reserach labratory?" Ben asked inquisitively.

Trug gave a sideways glance to Jok before proceeding.

"Well, we mostly specialize in the cloning of crops and are making some progress in animals - such as cows and sheep. But replicating humans is much harder than other mammals. But the possibilities of growing organs to help those overcome diseases, for example, I believe would be beneficial."

Los Polverines International Airport - 4:48 PM

A single helicopter bearing the flag of the United Socialist States of Zvarinograd touches down. From it, came Dr. Sergei Valkov, a man somewhat aged and bald. He looks at his watch as he steps out of the helicopter. Another man inside carries a briefcase and a medical doctor's bag, his aide. The doctor looks around.

Damn, I hope that guide gets here quick. If I miss this, it's my head on the Premier's platter.

Wombat News Report (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1883426#1883426)

ooc: Meh, didn´t see the first thread...

ic:

"Damn... why weren´t we informed?"
"N... No idea, sir, it seems a secretary slipped..."
"Fire him. We need to be there, after all, bio- and organic technology is our speciality. Send a request, if late requests for participation are possible."
"Well... yes... yes, will do." How rude. They will surely be pissed off...

"Unfortunately, we missed your announcement of such a conference which, naturally, interests us, considering that we specialise in bio- organic technology.

So, whhile it may be rude, we request participation at the conference, if possible (e.g. if the additional stuff can be managed by the organisation)."

With due respect,

~ Secretary of Mr. Aramaki, Kusanagi Technology, Max Farewell

Trug gave a sideways glance to Jok before proceeding.

"Well, we mostly specialize in the cloning of crops and are making some progress in animals - such as cows and sheep. But replicating humans is much harder than other mammals. But the possibilities of growing organs to help those overcome diseases, for example, I believe would be beneficial."

"Interesting," Weinstein replied.

He pointed out several things on the drive; for instance, the lack of smoke on the skyline as they drove through part of the "industrial" district.

"It's been at least seven years since the government first started instituting taxes on polluting industry," Weinstein mentioned.

This area now was mostly a grouping of nondescript warehouses and clean white labratories.

"These are mostly biotech labs; like you mentioned, most of the work done here is beefing up the production and health of crops," he commented.

Now the commercial district's impressive skyline towered by skyscrapers came into view -- of it, one large skyscraper stood out.

"And that would be the RCAF Tower 1 -- offices for Robinson, Calavera, Amalgamated and Federated Industries."

He paused.

"As you can imagine, the government has a large stake in all of them."

---

OOC: Will give Vrak a chance to reply to that.

---

To: Proper Der Angst Officials
From: Foreign Relations Director Gordon Newell
Subject: Request for late participation at organ farming conference by Der Angst

My apologies for having not informed you.

A late arrival is most welcome.

-- Gordon Newell
Foreign Relations Bureau

The Commonwealth of Oglethorpia

---

OOC: Will reply to Western Asia's post when I get home, now I have to go to school and such.

Bumpz0r 1!

Bumpz0r 1!

Bumpz0r 2!

Bumpz0r 1!

Bumpz0r 2!

Bumpz0r 3!

OOC: C'mon, there were some people last night.

He paused.

"As you can imagine, the government has a large stake in all of them."

---

OOC: Will give Vrak a chance to reply to that.


Health Official Jok Moir listened carefully to Weinstein’s commentary and then replied,

“It appears that your nation and ours shares a similar path in the pursuit of cloning research. How does your nation resolve the touchy issue of organ donation? In our country, people who want to donate organs such as kidneys are sufficiently compensated. Provided that the organ meets our health regulations, of course.”

Trug Pruvolit appeared to be asleep. After all, Vrak is far.

Organ Farming Conference

We are ready to accept your delagates at the Los Polverines International Airport. Learjets will be met by a 'greeting party' and driven over to the venue by Oglethorpian government staff.



The Primacy of the Carver States meet in closed session to discuss possibly sending a delegate to report on the status of the nation's organ bank development program.

"We approach the issue in a similar manner -- the government tries to give some incentive to donors so that patients on the kidney waiting list can get organs in a timely fashion," Weinstein said.

"I'm told that these medical folk want to be able to grow a kidney, and other organs for patients who need them. Rendering a donor program useless if it works right."

He paused, looking at the sights as the industrial district ended and more and more office buildings and malls came into view.

"Crazy," he commented. Shifting gears [metaphorically speaking], he said "We should arrive at the convention center shortly."

---

To: Prover Carver States Officials
From: Foreign Relations Director Gordon Newell
Subject: Organ Farming Conference

Please do send a delegate, before things move too much further along.

-- Gordon Newell
Foreign Relations Bureau

http://oglethorpia.free-host.com/images/oglethorpia_small.gif

The Commonwealth of Oglethorpia

---

Foreign Relations Advisor Clayton Raulston approached the exiting Western Asian delegation.

"Welcome to Oglethorpia," he said warmly. "I am Foreign Relations Advisor Clayton Raulston. Pleased to meet you both," he said, first extending his hand to the male doctor.

Foreign Relations Advisor Clayton Raulston approached the exiting Western Asian delegation.

"Welcome to Oglethorpia," he said warmly. "I am Foreign Relations Advisor Clayton Raulston. Pleased to meet you both," he said, first extending his hand to the male doctor.

Dr. Langer met Raulston happily."Why thank you. It is good to be here.

Dr. Long nudges him slightly.

"Oh, sorry, I'm Doctor Langer," he says as he grasps the man's hand and shakes, "Chairman of the Tissue Synthesis Control Board back in Western Asia. And this is Doctor Sara Long, a colleague of mine and my 'friend in high places' as I like to call her." He chuckles a bit, "these other fine lads and lass are some of our finest doctors and those fellows are some of our finest synthetic organmongers...who I'm sure you will come to know." He winks to Raulston before returning to the business.

"I am glad to see that this issue is becoming a matter of greater international concern. We have been working on the issue for a long time in Western Asia but our researchers have found very few international colleagues in the field.

"Hopefully, this conference will help change that reality.

"Now," *achem* (Dr. Langer clears his throat) " I was wondering about your nation's progress in this field, if any, and what the schedule of the conference looks like...It has been a long flight for us all." The old man smiles at his host as the group walks towards the waiting group of cars... several aides follow, carrying carry-on bags, as others direct ground crews to move luggage from the cargo hold into the trunks of the waiting vehicles.

Raulston studied the men and women Dr. Langer had pointed out.

"The plan is to begin the conference once we have everyone- or most everyone present. 'Halfway' -- I use the term tentatively -- halfway through, we'll break for lunch. Gordon [the Foreign Relations Director, his superior] tells me the food there is fine," Raulston said.

"As far as Oglethorpian progress in the field goes; the Maracaibo National Labratory has published two papers on the subject, mostly theory. There is no hard application of the proposed method -- I myself can't explain it to you, unfortunately."

He paused, looking around him and at the waiting Omzian delegation. "I'm sure Doctor Castellon, back at the Convention Center, can explain the proposition made by the Maraciabo lab in greater depth. Unfortunately, it seems that Ben Weinstein is already with the Vrakians heading over; I trust that you'll be able to find your own way? I'm sorry that I won't be able to point out the sighs of Los Polverines to you," Raulston said.

Bumpz0r 1!

Bumpz0r 2!

Bumpz0r 3!



Bumpz0r 4!

It wa sa long flight, but finally, the T100 Albatross arrived in...

"What´s the name again? Oglophilatoria?"
"Ummm... no, not really, ambassador... it`s Ogerolopia.. no... Og... Ol... On... Oglethorpia! Thats it, Oglethorpia."
"Ah, thanks." I will never be able to remember that freaking name. I think i will just call them 'hosts'. he muttered. Londo Mollari wasn´t exactly a patient man.

With him came his aide, Claude.

Slowly, the plane landed, it`s black, organic surface shifting in the sun.

It hadn`t a pilot, the semi- sentinent machine did all by itself.

"Now, to the conference... i hope the hotel is nearby."
"I`m sure it is. Well, anyway, we will see."
"Yes, we will."

The two men looked rather strange, with their pale, white skin, black hair, and red eyes. However, they didn´t exactly care much about the reactions their appearance might cause.

---

ooc: Didn´t care about 'request permission to land' 'permission granted', I have no intention of staging a terrorist attack, so i just assume it worked :P

OOC: No worries :)

---

State Advisor Hugh Parrett had been sent to meet the officials from Der Angst -- despite his vehement protest.

Still, a body guard had driven over the Kuruma Perennial sedan to the Los Polverines International Airport. The bodyguard drove the automobile closer to the lear jet that was just arriving, Parett stepping out of the car to greet the men.

---

OOC: And you can go ahead and post their exit, or somethin'.

He paused, looking around him and at the waiting Omzian delegation. "I'm sure Doctor Castellon, back at the Convention Center, can explain the proposition made by the Maraciabo lab in greater depth. Unfortunately, it seems that Ben Weinstein is already with the Vrakians heading over; I trust that you'll be able to find your own way? I'm sorry that I won't be able to point out the sighs of Los Polverines to you," Raulston said.

Dr. Lanpa looked.

"Very well, understood. Our ambassador and aides here would guide us. Thank you."

OOC: Time: before Der Angst and all.

Raulston studied the men and women Dr. Langer had pointed out.

"The plan is to begin the conference once we have everyone- or most everyone present. 'Halfway' -- I use the term tentatively -- halfway through, we'll break for lunch. Gordon [the Foreign Relations Director, his superior] tells me the food there is fine," Raulston said.

"As far as Oglethorpian progress in the field goes; the Maracaibo National Labratory has published two papers on the subject, mostly theory. There is no hard application of the proposed method -- I myself can't explain it to you, unfortunately."

He paused, looking around him and at the waiting Omzian delegation. "I'm sure Doctor Castellon, back at the Convention Center, can explain the proposition made by the Maraciabo lab in greater depth. Unfortunately, it seems that Ben Weinstein is already with the Vrakians heading over; I trust that you'll be able to find your own way? I'm sorry that I won't be able to point out the sighs of Los Polverines to you," Raulston said.

IC:"Ah very well then!" The doctor says with a smile, "Our ambassador in Oglethorpia has made arrangements on our behalf...Ah, I see him over there by the cars.

"Well, thank you very much for the kind greetings. I'll be looking forward to working with our colleages here in Oglethorpia. Thank you Mr. Raulston, I hope to see you again later on."

Dr. Langer shakes Raulston's hand and smiles broadly to him.

And with that, Dr. Langer and his team of representatives begin to walk towards the waiting group of cars.

"Take care," Raulston said, then reapproaching the Omzian delegation.

"Shall we head over?" he asked.

---

To Vrak:


"We approach the issue in a similar manner -- the government tries to give some incentive to donors so that patients on the kidney waiting list can get organs in a timely fashion," Weinstein said.

"I'm told that these medical folk want to be able to grow a kidney, and other organs for patients who need them. Rendering a donor program useless if it works right."

He paused, looking at the sights as the industrial district ended and more and more office buildings and malls came into view.

"Crazy," he commented. Shifting gears [metaphorically speaking], he said "We should arrive at the convention center shortly."

Bah, double post :?

Bumpz0r 1!

Bumpz0r 2!

Bumpz0r 3!



Bumpz0r 4!

Bumpz0r 5!

A young man burst through the door, gasping for air. "Sorry for the late arrival," he panted, "my nation was not informed of this conference until this afternoon, when it was already in progress. We have recently legalized cloning and paid organ donation, and felt... it.. mandatory to send...someone... The delegate wil arrive..shortly." Upon finishing his sentence he fell to his kness, unconscious from the effort of running so far from the airport while the ambassador waited patiently for a limo.

"Crazy," he commented. Shifting gears [metaphorically speaking], he said "We should arrive at the convention center shortly."

“Excellent,” replied Jok as he gazed at the changing scenery, “We look forward to meeting the other delegates. Have you any idea of whom they might be?”

"Crazy," he commented. Shifting gears [metaphorically speaking], he said "We should arrive at the convention center shortly."

“Excellent,” replied Jok as he gazed at the changing scenery, “We look forward to meeting the other delegates. Have you any idea of whom they might be?”

"Aside from a troupe of doctors from Western Asia, I mostly suspect the representatives will be delegates from other nations." He thought for a bit.

"Shouldn't be a problem, since we're moreso tackling the moral issue rather than the scientific one."

State Advisor Hugh Parrett had been sent to meet the officials from Der Angst -- despite his vehement protest.

Still, a body guard had driven over the Kuruma Perennial sedan to the Los Polverines International Airport. The bodyguard drove the automobile closer to the lear jet that was just arriving, Parett stepping out of the car to greet the men.



OOC: Quoted and reposted for the convinience of Der Angst.

Bump.

State Advisor Hugh Parrett had been sent to meet the officials from Der Angst -- despite his vehement protest.

Still, a body guard had driven over the Kuruma Perennial sedan to the Los Polverines International Airport. The bodyguard drove the automobile closer to the lear jet that was just arriving, Parett stepping out of the car to greet the men.


"Ah, you must be my, i mean our, well, receptionist is obviously the wrong word... Well, i feel honoured you people send at least someone."
Not even a minister... No manners, this people.
Indeed, Ambassador. Indeed. Claude couldn´t hide an ironical smile, luckily, Mollari didn´t see it. I wonder if sending him was a good choice... It`s hard to find people more arrogant than he is.

"Well, lets go." This was Mollari, again, with his remarkable habit of arrogance and insistance. A moment later he was in the car.

...

"Shouldn't be a problem, since we're moreso tackling the moral issue rather than the scientific one."

Jok tilted back and replied, “Ah yes, the troubling ethical issues. Frankly, I can’t see why some people are so afraid of progress. Our cloned crops enabled us to sustain our burgeoning population. Cloned organs could help people live longer and rectify hardships created by disease. I wonder how these anti-cloning activists would feel if they were on the recieving end of a crippling yet preventable diseasse?"

Trug’s snoring was becoming louder.



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"Shouldn't be a problem, since we're moreso tackling the moral issue rather than the scientific one."

Jok tilted back and replied, “Ah yes, the troubling ethical issues. Frankly, I can’t see why some people are so afraid of progress. Our cloned crops enabled us to sustain our burgeoning population. Cloned organs could help people live longer and rectify hardships created by disease. I wonder how these anti-cloning activists would feel if they suddenly had no organ donar available to help themselves or their immediate family out?"

Trug’s snoring was becoming louder.

"I agree," Weinstein said. "Oglethorpia too genetically alters crops; I myself see no problem with a 40% larger orange. Saves me money, I think."

By now the Kuruma Perennial was surrounded by commuting businessmen and businesswomen -- they stopped at a light as an entire troupe of men and women clad in suits crossed the street.

"Ah yes," Weinstein said. "The fruits of Oglethorpian capitalism," he said looking around at the lavish skyscrapers and office complexes. "Just down the street is the convention center."

Soon the car had pulled up and was ready to let them out.

"I suppose we ought to wake up your friend here?" Weinstein asked, looking at the sleeping walrus.

State Advisor Hugh Parrett had been sent to meet the officials from Der Angst -- despite his vehement protest.

Still, a body guard had driven over the Kuruma Perennial sedan to the Los Polverines International Airport. The bodyguard drove the automobile closer to the lear jet that was just arriving, Parett stepping out of the car to greet the men.


"Ah, you must be my, i mean our, well, receptionist is obviously the wrong word... Well, i feel honoured you people send at least someone."
Not even a minister... No manners, this people.
Indeed, Ambassador. Indeed. Claude couldn´t hide an ironical smile, luckily, Mollari didn´t see it. I wonder if sending him was a good choice... It`s hard to find people more arrogant than he is.

"Well, lets go." This was Mollari, again, with his remarkable habit of arrogance and insistance. A moment later he was in the car.

The driver began exiting the Los Polverines International Airport, hitting the Autobaun of Oglethorpia to almost completely bypass the hassled streets of the industrial district.

"I'm sure you don't mind if we take advantage of the...lack of a speed limit?" Hugh Parrett asked the folks from Der Angst.

---

Clayton Raulston bid the Western Asian delegation depart, and struck up conversation with the Omzians again.

"Shall we head on over?" he asked, looking at the waiting Kuruma Perennial sedan.

“Aye.”

With that, Jok smacked Trug on the nose with his flipper.

“ARGHHHH! WHOOOAAAAH!” bellowed Trug, “Jok?”

“We are almost there. Look lively.”

Trug did his best to appear fresh but sleepily cast his eye about the surrounding scenery.

With that, Foreign Relations Advisor Weinstein exited the car, leading them down the wide concerete path into the Commercial District Convention Center. [As stated before] Fine gardens were on either side of the path, in the center of them fountains surrounded by ornately-trimmed hedges and trees.

The path led towards a large glass door -- it opened into a lobby some 30 ft in height, the entirety of it carpeted in a light-tan hue, it's walls off-white in color, this offset by a light colored wood.

Weinstein led them down a myriad of halls. Opening two large doors in front of him, the main conference hall of the complex came into view. Beneath the large Oglethorpian flag sat four men at a long panel, conversing -- the entire piece of furniture facing the door.

To either side of that were "bleachers:" in here, no one sat.

Weinstein led them to below the panel -- this put them roughly below the eye level of the four men sitting there, but it didn't bug Weinstein. Two of them nodded to Weinstein: State Director Andrew Kreins, a blonde-headed younger man of 30 wearing a black suit. The other was Agriculture/Industry Director Larry Hudson. He was an older man with graying hair and also clad in a black suit. The other two were Parliament Moderator Marcus Finch and Heart Surgeon Lance Castellon.

"Mr. Pruvolit, Mr. Moir, this is State Director Andrew Kreins, Agriculture/Industry Director Larry Hudson, Moderator Marcus Finch, who does a similar duty in Parliament and finally Heart Surgeon Lance Castellon."

---

OOC: I note that despite the height difference, handshakes are possible.

The two walruses followed Weinstein, anxious to begin discussing matters with the other delegates. As the introductions were made they bowed and Trug replied,

“It’s an honour to meet you good sirs and thank you for hosting this conference. I’m certain that we all can reach some common ground in whatever differences may present themselves.”

OOC: Sorry. Walruses don’t shake hands.

The two walruses followed Weinstein, anxious to begin discussing matters with the other delegates. As the introductions were made they bowed and Trug replied,

“It’s an honour to meet you good sirs and thank you for hosting this conference. I’m certain that we all can reach some common ground in whatever differences may present themselves.”

OOC: Sorry. Walruses don’t shake hands.

"I do hope so," Doctor Castellon said. "What field(s) do you gentlemen work in?"

OOC: Wasn't thinkin'. That makes perfect sense, since flippers- and hands- yeah.

Bump.

"Shall we head on over?" he asked, looking at the waiting Kuruma Perennial sedan.

"Of course, of course... We have our own cars, by the way. We will be heading soon," an aide replied, as he walked towards the group of black cars - with red stars painted, followed by the national emblem of Omz222.

"Very well."

---

OOC: So Omz and WA are driving themselves? If so, then i'll post lengthy introductions and such later.

"Very well."

---

OOC: So Omz and WA are driving themselves? If so, then i'll post lengthy introductions and such later.OOC: Yep.

OOC: Yea. I'll try to get on later but I have a huge amount of RL work to do right now. (This will later be edited into a connective scene between the airport and the conference).

OOC: Yea. I'll try to get on later but I have a huge amount of RL work to do right now. (This will later be edited into a connective scene between the airport and the conference).

OOC: Sounds good.

Trug Pruvolit replied, “Ah…well, I’m basically your average geneticist concerned more with experimental crops. I’m the chief scientist at one of Apollo Food’s R&D centers. My colleague Jok Mior, “ indicating with a nod, “has a science background like myself but in marine biology.”

“That’s right Trug. My Phd was about the effects of industrial wastes on the clam population. Now I work in the Health Department which basically means I make policy and send out inspectors to keep track of my pal Trug,” explained Jok.

They both laughed.

“Hmmm,” said Jok, looking around the conference room, “We’re the first ones here. I don’t suppose we could trouble you for some coffee?”

"No problem at all. Weinstein?" said State Director Kreins.

Weinstein almost let out a sigh. "Creme or black?" he asked both of them. Weinstein did plenty of coffee runs for diplomats and government officials, so the science of coffee mixing was a familiar one to the young man.

"Ah...black please, sir, for both of us," replied Trug.

What? No secretary about? Interesting, mused Jok.

"Simple enough." The Advisor ran off to the cafeteria.

Soon Weinstein returned, handing the two men their coffees.

Soon Doctor Castellon piped up. "What do you think about organ farming, Mr. Pruvolit, Mr. Moir?"

Bump.

Bump.

The two walruses, mindful that they were in a foreign country and that cultural and moral differences invariably exist, chose their words carefully.

“Well,” said Jok, “our government does not have an official policy on organ growing per say but unofficially, it is the next logical step forward.”

“Also, the benefits seem to outweigh the disadvantages,” chimed in Trug, “That is, most opposition stems from ethical concerns and not necessarily scientific know how.”

"Then it seems we agree," Dr. Castellon said.

OOC: We could continue with some chit-chat, or skip the talk and get all those planning to RP delegates to the conference and move things along.

OOC: I wouldn't mind waiting for the other delegates actually. We've chatted the most. :)

The driver began exiting the Los Polverines International Airport, hitting the Autobaun of Oglethorpia to almost completely bypass the hassled streets of the industrial district.

"I'm sure you don't mind if we take advantage of the...lack of a speed limit?" Hugh Parrett asked the folks from Der Angst.


"Oh... of course not. Give all you have... or the car." He hesitated, then continued. "Interesting country... A blue sky... no fire- breathing animals... no organic houses... blue water... very... strange. I needed to make this trip, it`s... fascinating. You life in an very extraordinary nation."

The driver proceed to test the muscle of the car by taking it to 100 mph -- not a big deal when one examined the curves and grade of the highway.

Parrett brought things onto the topic of Der Angst. "Fire-breathing animals? In Der Angst?" he inquired.

== Bump for organs! ==

"Huh? Ah... Well, our bioengineers... they do whatever they damn well please, turning DA into an outpost of hell... little advise: While i like the idea of 'organ farming', your people should make sure that their bioengineers don`t get to many freedoms..."

He hesitated, watched out of the window... "Really... fascinating..." he whispered...

Parrett nodded in approval.

The driver proceeded to exit the Autobahn, soon entering the commercial district of Los Polverines.

Within minutes the Kuruma Perennial drove up and stopped before the Commercial District Convention Center.

"We're here," Parrett said, already opening his door.

---

WA, Omz, we can use OOC-Oglethorpian teleportation technology to get things underway.

== Bump for organs! ==

I concur!

Mollari and Claude quickly get out of the car, and watched the building.

"Not too impressive..."
"Well, i assume they actually like being able to see the sun."
"You have a point."

A few moments later, they entered...

And were quickly led to the conference room, where they took their seats, curiously watched by several other delegates with more 'human' looks.

---

ooc: Angstian event acceleration tech :P

OOC: Later today, when I get home -- I shall begin the conference.

The Omzian delegates, after these long travel to the conference building, finally got there. They quite enjoyed the DVD players and air conditioning in their cars, not mentioning comfortable sleep.

Dr. Lanpa is the first to step out, as usual. Following are his aides from various state-owned biology companies.

"Nice building Oglethorpia got here," Dr. Lanpa said , as he came out. He was amazed.

Late arrivals to the conference from Oglethorpian labratories and universities are as follows:

Director Gastón Hutchinson
- Director of Maracaibo Nat'l Lab

Doctor Eugene Melson
- Working with Maracaibo Nat'l Lab

As stated before, Moderator Marcus Finch, Doctor Lance Castellon, State Director Andrew Kreins and Agriculture/Industry Director Larry Hudson are all present.

---

Hutchinson, Maracaibo Lab directr, Dr. Melson, Dr. Castellon, State Director Kreins, A/I Director Hudson and Moderator Marcus Finch -- rounding out the six men who represented Oglethorpia and would "command" the direction of the conference.

Finch was the first to begin speaking before the assembled delegates of Vrak, Western Asia, Omz and Der Angst.

(OOC: If you had folks who were attending, and still wish to partake in the convention -- assume they're here. Arrival RPs are a formality. Tanah Burung will enter late, and that's fine with me.)

"Greetings delegates from friendly nations across the world," the older man began, "we are assembled here today to discuss the moral and technological issues involving the growth and farming of human organs. I will turn the floor over to Project Director Hutchinson, who may call on his colleague to discuss the proposals made by the Maracaibo lab. Mr. Hutchinson?"

Hutchinson, a youngerman -- clearly of Brazillian descent, began speaking with a thick, but mostly understandable accent.

"Now, the Maracaibo Nat'l Lab, with help from Dr. Melson of Weiland University, has helped us draw up two proposals for the farming of organs to possibly replace the use of donor programs. The first of these is to take cells from the patient who needs a paticular organ, and use his cells to grow the tissues to grow the organ that we need."

He paused, leafing through some papers.

"The second of these is to use generic cell templates -- based on the basic blood types, then store these away for when they are needed. These are referred to, respectively, as proposal A and B. I think we can open up discussion here, ladies and gentlemen." Gastón Hutchinson sat back down, speaking some words to Dr. Melson, then waiting for discussion to begin.

Bump.

Bump #2.

Things have finally started, folks.

Trug looked at the visiting delegates in turn and then, in a deep baritone, began,

“Well, we’ve had success in the cloning of various crops to feed our ever-increasing population. In the matter of animals, we’ve found that the clones have a shorter life span than regular animals. However, since we are primarily raising them for foodstock then that may not be too much of a concern, although we don’t know if there are some unknown side effects associated with this. We will begin long term test trials shortly.

But we haven’t had much success with the actual growing of human organs.

Regarding the two options present, we wonder how long it would take to actually grow a fully functional organ. One week? One month? Also, how long can blood be stored? Our blood banks can, depending on what exactly is stored and assuming optimal conditions, for at least two years before expiration. Certainly cryopreservation can store cord blood for about 20 years but that is inconclusive. Advances in cyropreservation would perhaps be needed for option two."

OCC:

http://www.cbbsweb.org/enet_fda_ffptemp.html
http://www.cordbloodstorage.com/

Hutchinson looked at Dr. Melson -- he stood up to address Trug.

"We estimate that to grow an organ such as a liver, or a kidney, to take roughly three to five weeks in the proper growing conditions, stimulating the developing cells and tissues as necessary."

Next, Agriculture/Industry Director Hudson would address Trug's second statement.

"Most blood taken from blood drives only lasts maybe six months -- longterm storage is something that I don't believe the healthcare system is ready to tackle. I believe cyropreservation research is prudent to go along with the current proposals made by the Maracaibo National Labratory."

Next, and seemingly the last of Oglethorpians to make comments, was Lab Director Gastón Hutchinson.

"Hopefully, we won't need to store the grown organs much longer than their growing time so as to get them into the recipient in a timely fashion. Still, though, storage methods would be very helpful should we ever have to do it."

Trug looked at the Oglethorpians and replied,

“Three to five weeks eh? How long can the organ last for transfusion purposes? That is, I agree with you a timely fashion in the transfusion process is necessary since who knows what the possible side effects would be in transplanting a liver that is stored away for 10 years in a cyropreservation vault. Plus it would be inefficient not to mention expensive.

Unless the other delegates present can shed some light here.”

====
The FKC (http://www.freewebs.com/klatchia/index.htm)
The Order of the Seraphim (http://s2.invisionfree.com/Order_ofthe_Seraphim/index.php?act=idx)
The UTP (http://invisionfree.com/forums/UTP/index.php?)
TDP Tech Inc. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1902608#1902608)
World Factbook Entry: Vrak (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=83379&highlight=)

"We agree. 'Just in time' productionis, in fact, a standart procedure that should generally be used in organ farming.

For the simple reason that the negative effects of long- term storing the organs, as well as the running costs, are simply... well, a joke.

On the other hand, there are risks, if the organ is needed within, say, hour or days, it may be to late. Generally, we tend to prduce a small amount of organs for such cases, with acceptable costs. In the case they aren`t needed, we simply use them as raw material for the next generation, if they are needed... well, the victims are lucky."

Trug looked at the Oglethorpians and Der Angtians.

“Obviously you both are more advanced than us in this area. How do you overcome the ethical concerns?”

Dr. Melson first adressed Trug. "Hopefully the same amount of time as donated organs -- perhaps a year or two with conventional storage methods?"

Next, Hutchinson of the Maracaibo lab looked at the delegates from Der Angst. "I imagine, that if we ever ran across a patient who was in dire need of an organ, that we'd have already known of their condition and had a replacement organ in growth well before the critical stage in their condition. As for your comment on organ storage, I fully agree -- we should not spend money on storing organs for silly amounts of time, say, 5-10 years."

Mollari looks at Trug, slightly surprised.

"Ethical... concerns? Our only concerns were what would happen to the poor victims of unfortunate accidents when we do not do it... ok, there was some resistance, but it is long gone..."

Trug looked back at Mollari, slightly amused.

"It's not that our nation is actually too concerned about particular ethical concerns since the people obey the King, but the whole point of my question was to see how each nation here dealt with whatever ethical concerns were raised. That is, some people may feel squeamish about donating and growing organs. Especially if the methods employed are questionable. For example, harvesting organs from a cloned being tend to upset those of the conservative persuasion. It usually makes things easier when people can see the benefits of such programs rather than presented in the realm of the theoretical."

edit: That should be "conservative" not "liberal" persuasion. :oops:

Agriculture/Industry Director Larry Hudson addressed Trug.

"As you know, we try to offer incentives to organ donors -- tax breaks, things like that." With nothing else to say, the man sat down.

Gastón Hutchinson, Maracaibo Nat'l Lab Director, soon spoke up.

"I think that if we are to launch efforts into growing organs, a certain level of ethical issues should fully be pushed aside; for if we succeed in setting up a successful organ farming program, people will no longer have to donate organs for the good of others."

Bump.

“Hmmm,” mumbled Jok, “we already have in place cash incentives for donated organs. Our citizens pay a low rate of tax at the present so that really isn’t an option. We are interested in developing our organ growing research further though. But we still want to keep our donor program in place for those who feel they need to take advantage of it.”

"A good point," said State Director Andrew Kreins. "Since Oglethorpian healthcare is a government controlled entity, it would be in our best interest if we no longer had to pay organ donors, assuming the cost of organ farming pans out to be cheaper than giving benefits to donors."

Bump.

OOC:

This thread is in no way related to the cow motorcycle...

http://www.sillygirl.com/images/sillypictures/cow-motorcycle.jpg

OOC: Thankfully :wink:

Bump.

Jok looked at the participants and then said,

“Well, it would seem that all of us here agree that ethical concerns should be swept aside for the greater good. But what about the fears that people have of clones in general? That is, some make the leap that organ growing is one step away from creating hordes of clone armies.”

"Well," Kreins began, "I think it's clear to most everyone that Oglethorpia and Vrak are militarily responsible nations; so I see no reason why there should be fear of either of us having a clone army."

Dr. Melson would offer a different point of view. "Well, I agree with Mr. Kreins has already said, but I believe the people can be pleased with a small agreement; that is, that we will not clone humans."

Jok replied,

“Ah…I see. So we are making the distinction between cloning people and cloning just individual organs? Regarding the growing techniques, is it more feasible to grow an entire being and then harvest the needed organs or to just grow individual organs?

"Both are viable methods," chimed in Maracaibo Nat'l Lab Director Gastón Hutchinson. "I am sure it all comes down to what is cheaper; should we successfully produce a full body and a full organ, say a kidney just from tissues, i'm sure we'd find the latter to be cheaper as it is less to store away."

“Okay,” replied Trug, “what about the thoughts from the other reps here?”

OOC: Waits for a few days… :)

OOC: Seems like it.

Oh well, we've made some headway, which is good.

OOC: Having just re-found this, and in a current state of Early-onset Senioritis/Homework-avoiditis, I'll throw in WA's hat from a few comments back.

IC:
At the mention of Ethical Concerns for the process, Dr. Langer begins to speak up...but he finds himself at the door of the room and quite a bit removed from his seat and the associated microphone. A few moments later he has seated himself and he begins again.

"If you'll forgive my tardiness and interruption, I would like to provide our fellow conference participants with some of the conclusions that the Tissue Synthesis Control Board of Western Asia, not to mention the Congress and numerous other governmental and academic bodies, has arrived at." Langer picks up a glass of water and sips some of it before proceeding, "The TSCB holds that the use of abandoned or otherwise passively gained Organic Growth Potential Materials, or OGPMs as we call them, is perfectly allowed under moral guidelines. The majority even tends to hold that it is not only morally acceptable but that it is actually morally required that we take full advantage of the available materials.

"Allow me a moment to define myself more precisely on this point, we do not believe that ethical practice and general moral guidelines should be set aside in this matter—it is simply that the actual act, in this case, is in no violation of such guidelines.

"As for OGPMs, they are either special derivatives of Stem Cell lines that have been obtained from abandoned/donated fertilized human egg formations or from actual umbilical cord-derived cells that are collected at birth, again, when donated. Even as the government might demand these precious natural biological resources, the TSCB has issued a statement, now widely accepted in Western Asia, that clearly states that the donors should have the option of donation.

Dr. Langer clears his throat and takes another sip of the water as his fellow Western Asian delegates set up their papers for the meeting. In characteristic form, Langer’s forms remain in his briefcase as he speaks from memory.

"As far as the issue of growth times, we have found that the most stable organs…and those that tend to have the lowest chance of growth defects, including the presence of cancerous-form cells, are those that we have allowed over 2 months to grow, with a peak efficiency at 5 months of growth. While this means that there is a clear time limit on the availability of these organs, the extensive public health record in Western Asia allows most of the organ growing companies to carefully control the ‘yield’ in organs each month by type to match with current market forces and demand.

"To prevent the abuse of certain rights that these companies are provided with," Langer looks ironically at the nearest organ grower’s representative before continuing, "the TSCB has established careful guidelines that prevent these companies from over-charging the persons, and so over-charge the government-provided medical system, and to keep them from dropping production to below the minimum necessary.

"Now…as for the reproduction of humans, that is another debate—and the TCSB, along with most of Western Asia’s Synthetic Organ specialists, has informally condemned within Western Asia."

Jok looked at Dr. Langer and said,

“Well, I see. I didn’t mean to sidetrack the issue for us to delve into the cloning of humans. It’s just that it’s a viable technique so I wanted to gauge how everyone stood on the issue and its feasibility. But it would seem that, judging from the comments so far, that merely growing organs is perfectly acceptable and cheaper. Are we all in agreement with that sentiment?”

Trug cleared his throat and began in a deep voice,

“As a scientist, I’m most interested in these latest, to us anyhow, organ growing techniques. I’ve read some of the available literature but have yet to see it first hand. Would anyone here care to visit our own R&D center and perhaps some form of technical talks could be undertaken?”

With the last remark he looked over at the Health official, who nodded approvingly.

Dr. Langer, having finally caught up with himself, smiles at the proposal and greets the proposals of the Vrakian delegates warmly.

"Indeed, I have found that organ-specific synthesis is both more manageable and safe for the participants...and definitely cheaper, so long as the basic technology is at hand. Admittedly, for a country of less developed technology the reverse might be true, but the issue still remains as to whether or not you wish to recognize the human nature, and any inherent rights, of such a cloned being. The TCSB prefers to avoid this issue as I do and the topic has never received much public support.

"That being said, we'd be interested in signing some sort of simple document to the effect of 'we will not clone human beings for organ harvesting purposes' or some such phrasing--if you so wish it.

"Now, as for the proposal of a 'field trip', I'd be happy to attend such a meeting...as I am sure some of my fellow delegates might." Another smile cracks on Langer's face, "...but I'd advise you to keep an eye on these industry types. I've never trusted the people who do this stuff for profit."

Trug frowned slightly.

“Ah…most of our research and development labs are run by private companies but are regulated, in various degrees, by the Kingdom. So yes, we are privately run but we do have more than just the bottom line in mind, at least when it comes to my work. That is, my work with cloning crops is seen as a benefit to the nation as a whole. There are other technologies that have their roots in private company labs. I think TDP Tech Inc started out in the R&D labs of Hydra Oil if I’m not mistaken.”

Jok cut in, seeing how Trug was getting a wee bit defensive.

“We invite all the participants to come to Vrak for a visit.”

TDP Tech Inc. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1902608#1902608)

OOC: Must…clear…RP…plate. Must…get…to…work. Boss…coming…near.

OOC: Heh. Good luck in hidin' your NS off-tasknss, Vrak.

Agriculture and Industry Director Larry Hudson addressed Dr. Langer. "Dr. Langer; should Oglethorpia begin growing organs, it is likely to be a government owned and run affair, as the healthcare system is integrated into the government."

Next, Gastón Hutchinson of the Maracaibo Lab would speak up. "I would love to vist Vrak's fine research labratories," he said.

OOC: Bah. My work is basically done. Monday will be an easy day since we'll be doing group discussions. So it's not too bad.

IC:

Trug replied to Gaston, "That would be excellent."

Moderator Marcus Finch would attempt to move things along.

"Assuming some of us are able provide funds and research into organ farming, will we share this information and documented research freely among us? If so, will we form a management board to handle this information trading and distribution? I think that the nations whom already grow organs should express their position on the distribution of existing research and development on the subject."

OOC: Okay for my guys to have an aide of some sorts? That is, to keep in touch back home? If not, pretend this post didn’t happen.

A Vrakian aide quietly came in during the meeting and passed along a message to Jok. He shook his head once and then broke in.

“I’m afraid that, for the moment, we’ll have to cancel any visits to our country,” he said dryly, “It looks like the FKC may go to war.”

OOC: Background (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=93916&highlight=)

OOC: It's cool, Vrak.

---

"Hmmm," said State Director Kreins. "Most unfortunate news. We wish the best to our Vrakian friends."

Kreins noted to himself to monitor the situation in the Federated Klatchian Coast.

Jok replied,

"Um...would it be okay if we could excuse ourselves to our hotel? That is, this news from home is rather unsettling."

Trug looked ashen as he was told the grim news.

"Yes, most certainly," said Kreins.