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Session 1 for Developers:

WP_Query, pre_get_posts, and eliminating query_posts()

by Erick Hitter (@ethitter)

At the heart of WordPress is the WP_Query class, used to retrieve practically all content from the database and prepare it for display. In this presentation, I’ll discuss the myriad arguments available with WP_Query, the various properties and methods that are automatically populated, and the advanced queries made possible through filters within the class. I’ll also review the pre_get_posts action, detail how it can be used to modify standard WordPress queries and completely eliminate query_posts(), and explain why you’d want to do so in the first place.

Erick Hitter is a web developer with Providence-based Oomph, Inc. specializing in complex WordPress implementations for high-traffic sites, including several on the WordPress.com VIP platform. He is also responsible for the company’s BuddyPress projects. Erick has created a number of WordPress plugins available from the official repository, including the Simple Facebook Share Button and Tag Dropdown Widget, as well as the WordPress.com VIP External Permalinks plugin.

Session 2 for Beginners/Early Intermediates:

Restoring your WordPress site from a Backup

by Kurt Eng (@kurteng)

WordPress is one of the best CMS engines out there, but it is only as good as it works.  If a plugin, theme or update causes an error on your WordPress site, what do you do?  I'll show you a couple of ways to save your site, and your content and how to restore it.

Kurt Eng is a scientist by day and a rabid gamer and cook by night.  Kurt has been very active in podcasting and video, publishing free content for others to learn. Kurt focuses on the beginners of WordPress and blogging, empowering them with the knowledge and enthusiasm to get started.  (http://kurteng.com)