text:
Germany Wins Miss International 2022
Congratulations to Jasmin Selberg, 22, of Germany who was crowned Miss International 2022 at Tokyo Dome City Hall in Tokyo, Japan just moments ago. She is the third German to win the crown after Ingrid Fifi Finger in 1965 and Iris Klein in 1989.
Selberg competed in Miss Supranational 2022 where she was unplaced. She also competed in Miss Globe 2021 where she won the Miss Social Media award.
First Runner-Up: Stephany Amado - Cabo Verde
Second Runner-Up: Tatiana Calmell - Peru
Third Runner-Up: Natalia Lopez - Colombia
Fourth Runner-Up: Celinee Santos - Dominican Republic
Top 8: Jamaica, Canada, Spain
Top 15: Philippines, Northern Marianas, Costa Rica, Finland, France, New Zealand, United Kingdom
Photos courtesy of Miss International Facebook Page
JASMIN SELBERG MISS INTERNATIONAL 2022
Labels: JASMIN SELBERG MISS INTERNATIONAL 2022


As noted here a while ago, the latest wsusscn2.cab can be downloaded from go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=76054. Also here, there seems to be an equivalent link go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?LinkID=74689.
Is there a Microsoft or third party web service notifying when an updated wsusscn2.cab version is available?
Is there a similar tool/DB for quality updates (not feature)?
The venerable catalog.update.microsoft.com seems a viable alternative, but I don't see an API to query the catalog.
Assuming that you're talking about an automated process, you should be able to do this by querying the Last-Modified HTTP header directly from the download site.
Because the official URL is a redirection, you'll need to process that first.
When the Last-Modified value changes, a new version of wsusscn2.cab is available. Note that this file is updated infrequently, usually only once a month on Patch Tuesday when new security updates are released, so depending on your scenario it is probably sufficient to check at most a few times a day. There might be occasional false positives, if this is a problem for you you should also check the date on the digital signature of the downloaded file.
If I've misunderstood and you're not talking about an automated process, you can sign up for Microsoft Technical Security Notifications. These notifications won't explicitly tell you when wsusscn2.cab has been updated, but they will tell you when new security updates are available, and that's almost the same thing.
The Security Update Guide also provides an API.
Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged windows-update automatic-updates or ask your own question.
Definitive download location for MBSA "wsusscn2.cab" file for offline mode scans?
Getting rid of a specific windows update on Windows Server 2008?
Is it safe to leave Windows Update permanently disabled?
Should WSUS show a server as requiring an update that has been approved for removal?


text:
Q: Perfoming UI updates in secondary queue I am using the new CoreMotion framework to monitor some of the hardware devices. Here is the typical code to do that:
-(void)startAccelerometer{
self.motion.accelerometerUpdateInterval = 1/30.0f;
NSOperationQueue* accelerometerQueue = [[NSOperationQueue alloc] init];
CMAccelerometerHandler accelerometerHandler = ^(CMAccelerometerData *accelerometerData, NSError *error) {

    NSLog(@"Accelerometer realtime values");
    NSLog(@"x=%f", accelerometerData.acceleration.x);
    NSLog(@"y=%f", accelerometerData.acceleration.y);
    NSLog(@"z=%f", accelerometerData.acceleration.z);
    NSLog(@"  ");

};
[self.motion startAccelerometerUpdatesToQueue:accelerometerQueue withHandler:[[accelerometerHandler copy]autorelease]];

}
That works just fine. Now I want to print the values on a UILabel, but since the CoreMotion frameworks has you use blocks, this is not guaranteed to be in the main queue (and in fact isn't for my app). Is it is "wrong" to just run the label's setter on the main queue like this?
-(void)startAccelerometer{
self.motion.accelerometerUpdateInterval = 1/30.0f;
NSOperationQueue* accelerometerQueue = [[NSOperationQueue alloc] init];
CMAccelerometerHandler accelerometerHandler = ^(CMAccelerometerData *accelerometerData, NSError *error) {
    dispatch_async(dispatch_get_main_queue(), ^{
        self.lblAccelerometer.text = [NSString stringWithFormat:@"Accelerometer:\nx = %f\ny = %f\nz = %f",
                                      accelerometerData.acceleration.x,
                                      accelerometerData.acceleration.y,
                                      accelerometerData.acceleration.z];

    });

};
[self.motion startAccelerometerUpdatesToQueue:accelerometerQueue withHandler:[[accelerometerHandler copy]autorelease]];

}
It works just fine and I don't really see any reason why this would be frowned upon. Any thoughts on that?

A: This is a common method that I use in many projects. UI updates must occur on the main thread.
//Dispatch on background thread
dispatch_async(dispatch_get_global_queue(DISPATCH_QUEUE_PRIORITY_DEFAULT, 0), ^{

    //background processing goes here

    //Dispatch on main thread
    dispatch_async(dispatch_get_main_queue(), ^{
            //update UI here
    });
});

In your case, your UI updates are occurring on the main thread. So I wouldn't worry about changing anything.

A: You are missunderstanding the concept of blocks, to put it simple:
Blocks are small pieces of code that can be handled as variables and be executed at a certain time or thread.
All UI updates MUST be performed on the main thread so as long as you do this it will be fine.
Codes can be executed in different threads with different priorities in sync or async mode. On your code you are doing it perfectly fine, you not only dispatch it to the Main Queue which is where uiupdates should be executed, but you are also dispatching it async which is the safest way to update send to the main queue (from your code i cannot tell if you are running this specific piece of code from the main queue or a secondary queue but if u were to dispatch a sync block from the main queue to the main queue your program would stop working)
For iOS documentation:

Use the dispatch_get_main_queue function to get the serial dispatch
  queue associated with your application's main thread. This queue is
  created automatically for Cocoa applications and for applications that
  either call the dispatch_main function or configure a run loop (using
  either the CFRunLoopRef type or an NSRunLoop object) on the main
  thread.

Read this here http://developer.apple.com/library/ios/#documentation/General/Conceptual/ConcurrencyProgrammingGuide/OperationQueues/OperationQueues.html#//apple_ref/doc/uid/TP40008091-CH102-SW1

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


I've made a fun offline mobile web app that generates random excuses and easily lets you share them. It uses real-time train and tube delay information for more realistic bails. Visit instabail.uk to check it out.
It's a static website hosted on GitHub pages using CloudFlare for caching and HTTPS support. You can "install" it to run it full screen like a native app and it will run offline too.
I wanted to experiment with the new "Add to Home Screen" banner functionality in mobile Chrome. I'll write more about the intricacies of this (and the problems of getting the app to work well on iOS and Android) another time.
If you launch the website more than once on different days then a banner will appear that prompts you to add the web app to your home screen.
You then get a nice icon that you can launch the app from (the iOS icon is slightly different as it doesn't support transparency).
Launching the app from the icon runs it full screen.
The app will work without a data connection (but you won't get some of the latest bails).


text:
MZB's Bibliography, updated 10 November 2022
MZB's Biography
Assorted Information
MZB's Funeral
Darkover®
"A Darkover-Retrospective"
FAQs/Avalon mini-series
Thoughts on Avalon
"Stargate" movie review
Why Prayer Is Not Answered
Articles on Writing:
Advice to New Writers
Death, Taxes, and the Writer
Translations from the Editorial
What Have You Done With My Manuscript?
What Is a Short Story?
Why Did my Story Get Rejected?
This is the home page for the Marion Zimmer Bradley Literary Works Trust, which holds Mrs. Bradley's copyrights and administers her literary estate. The address above may be used to contact Ann Sharp, the Trustee.
The new Darkover novel THE LARAN GAMBIT, was published November 8, 2022 (making it entirely suitable as as gift for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Twelfth Night, Winter Solstice, Yule, etc.).
THE LARAN GAMBIT (Darkover novel)
* JEWELS OF DARKOVER, 2023
THE LARAN GAMBIT, 2022 - audio, ePub, Kindle
SWORD AND SORCERESS 34, 2019 - ePub, Kindle, paperback, contents
CITADELS OF DARKOVER, 2019 - ePub, Kindle, contents
LACE AND BLADE 5, 2019 - ePub, Kindle, contents
SWORD AND SORCERESS 33, 2018 - ePub, Kindle, contents
CROSSROADS OF DARKOVER, 2018 - ePub, Kindle, contents
Sign up for our semi-annual newsletter
Songs of Darkover, music from the anthology Music of Darkover is now available as a download or CD.
A podcast of the story "The Tavern at the Ford" by Dave Smeds, originally published in Sword and Sorceress 28, is available at Far Fetched Fables. Check it out!
Our AudioBooks, available from Audible and iTunes:
MUSIC OF DARKOVER, Nov 2016 - sample
NIGHT'S DAUGHTER, Aug 2016
THE SURVIVORS, Aug 2016
HUNTERS OF THE RED MOON, Apr 2016
REDISCOVERY, Oct 2015
HEIRS OF HAMMERFELL, Jun 2015
BLUEBEARD'S DAUGHTER, Jul 2014
CASTLE TERROR, Jun 2014
SOUVENIR OF MONIQUE, May 2014
WARRIOR WOMAN, May 2014
SWORD OF ALDONES, Nov 2012
THUNDERLORD, by MZB and Deborah J. Ross
Darkover® sequel to Stormqueen
hardcover, Aug 2016
paperback, Aug 2017
iBook, Kindle, Kobo, Nook
THE STARLIT JEWEL is a CD of songs from J.R.R. Tolkien's THE HOBBIT and THE LORD OF THE RINGS, with musical settings by Marion Zimmer Bradley, Kristoph Klover, and Margaret Davis. Beautiful Celtic and Medieval-flavored musical settings featuring vocals, harp, guitar, cello, recorders, and other acoustic instruments. This recording is fully authorized by the Estates of J.R.R. Tolkien and Marion Zimmer Bradley; edition limited to 2000 copies.
"The Starlit Jewel is a rare collection - a must for admirers of Tolkien's Middle-earth poetry and for lovers of well-played, well-sung music."
-- Paula di Sante, Mythopoeic Society

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


We are a group of family members that care for a family member that experiences Autism or Aspergers. We provide each other with moral and peer support, sharing of information, access to books, resources, experienced guest speakers and some training.
We meet on a monthly basis. Dates and times are set month to month in consultation with our members. Contact Shirley Guzman to receive further information.


Alberta's capital Edmonton is making waves with its booming culinary scene. Here, experimental chefs are looking to their own backyard for ingredients and inspiration. One hotspot is Bündok, ranked number eight in Air Canada's Best New Restaurants Awards for chef Ryan Hotchkiss's inventive, ingredient-led cooking. RGE RD's ever-changing seasonal menu is studded with produce meticulously sourced from farms and small producers across western Canada. And Christine Sandford is another of Edmonton's most exciting chefs, whose inventive small-plate dishes at Biera combine prairie ingredients with European finesse. You can sip on a flight of Blind Enthusiasm Brewery beers as you dine at this buzzy brewery-restaurant in cool collaborative space the Ritchie Market.
Hyper-local ingredients are not exclusive to the restaurants, though. Micro-distillery Strathcona Spirits – North America's smallest distillery at just 69sqm – makes its small-batch vodka using single-grain hard red wheat grown less than 15 miles away. Meanwhile, wild juniper berries foraged in Alberta's Badlands and native seaberry, which grows around Edmonton, are some of the botanicals that go into its Badland Seaberry Gin. Take a tour to taste them. You can set off on two wheels to explore more of Edmonton's essential food stops on a Food Bike Tour – you'll stop at five to seven establishments around the city over several hours. The Old Strathcona Farmers' Market is a must-visit.
The city's food scene is celebrated in July at Taste of Edmonton. It's just one festival on the jam-packed calendar – Edmonton is known as the "festival city" for good reason. The atmosphere in the city is positively electric during the Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival, which takes over the historic neighbourhood Old Strathcona every August. It's the second largest fringe theatre festival in the world after Edinburgh.
The cultural city also has some of Canada's top museums and galleries – the fascinating Royal Alberta Museum charts 13,000 years of Albertan history while the Art Gallery of Alberta is a vibrant art hub housed within one of the city's most striking pieces of architecture.
With the North Saskatchewan River snaking through it, Edmonton is also a city for lovers of the great outdoors. The River Valley – North America's largest stretch of urban parkland – is where locals go to cycle, jog, walk and canoe in summer, and fat-bike, snowshoe and cross-country ski in winter. As the northernmost metropolis in Canada, its long summer evenings mean locals can really make the most of the outdoors. Along with Calgary, it's the sunniest city in Canada.
But saying that, the fun-loving locals don't let the dark winter days put a downer on things. Oh no: Edmonton knows how to do winter, too. Locals simply put on a few more layers and go for a spot of snowshoeing at Elk Island National Park, keeping watch for the Northern Lights, which dance over Edmonton's skies for four months over winter. It's also a great place for stargazing, being part of one of Alberta's dark sky preserves.
Then there are open-air ice-skating rinks to glide across (Hawrelak Park, the Victoria Park Oval and Rundle Park have some of the best), fat-biking tracks to burn around and outdoor heated patios on which to enjoy a cold craft beer or two. One of the season's highlights is the magical Ice Castle festival where shimmering handcrafted ice palaces turn Hawrelak Park into a veritable winter wonderland.
From the lakes and mountains, to dinosaurs, to modern cities Alberta crams a lot in to its borders.
Whichever season you choose to travel to Alberta you'll find a huge amount to do and see so give yourself plenty of time to explore.


Before purchasing storage solution with baskets, look over the room, consider your wall space, and think about the needs of your spouse and children. Be sure to choose well-constructed, quality storage shelves. Baskets and shelves add flair to your room and enhance your interior design. Unless you have a large auto and can lift heavy cases, consider shopping online, and your gift basket shelves will be delivered to your door. Get right to work, de-clutter and organize. Then sit back, put up your feet and enjoy your picture-perfect home.
Thenewyorkclipper - Bathroom towel rack ebay. Mdesign modern decorative six level bathroom towel rack holder & organizer, wall mount for storage of bath towels, washcloths, hand towels white. Buy wall mount cabinet from bed bath & beyond. The helen corner wall cabinet by elegant home fashions features an elegant crown molded top that will beautifully enhance any bathroom decor stylish wall mounted cabinet design also has a single door with chrome finished knob and 1 interior fixed shelf. 25 bathroom organizers martha stewart. Keep the bathroom tidy by hanging towels from the rungs of a progressive or apple picking ladder propped against a wall or use a towel ladder on a porch for beach towels, so sand isn't brought indoors. White bathroom cabinets, bathroom storage furniture from. Bathroom furniture and storage including free standing white bathroom cabinets, wooden towel rails and accessories the white lighthouse white furniture and accessories for the bathroom. Bathroom all architecture and design manufacturers in. Find all of the bathroom products on archiexpo: washbasins, mixer taps, washbasin cabinets, contact suppliers directly to get a quote or to find out a price or your closest point of sale. Bathroom accessories: towel holders rona. Rona carries bathroom accessories for your bathroom renovation decorating projects find the right towel holders to help your home improvement project. Must have measurements for your bathroom how high to hang. Last updated: january 6, 2019 by kris jarrett must have measurements for your bathroom how high to hang your towel bar, sconces, toilet paper holder & more!. Small bathroom ideas: reviews by wirecutter a new york. Updated november 6, 2018 we've added our also great bath towel pick, the onsen lattice towel, to this textured weave is soft, but quick drying, and smaller to store than any terry towel we tested. 13 small bathroom remodeling ideas this old house. Looking for ideas to transform your small bathroom? find the perfect small bathroom remodeling idea for your home online at this old house today!. Svartsj�n hook rack ikea. Ikea svartsj�n, hook rack the price of this item includes a contribution to a product recycling fund to ensure that waste electrical and electronic equipment is collected and recycled in a responsible manner.


text:
« IN THEIR GENES
DEMO FRENZY »
BIG QUESTIONS FOR A SUNDAY…
By David Vance | March 27, 2011 - 9:05 am | October 28, 2012 Nicky Campbell.
Nicky Campbell's Big Question programme looks to be a rich treat this morning; Up for discussion "Is it time to squeeze the rich?" (Does that include BBC presenters, Nicky?) Lots of clerics on to attack the banks.
Then, "Should creationism ever be taught in schools" (There's a Church of England cleric who thinks it is akin to child abuse to do so and a Muslim who home-schools to be able to teach creationism, nice bit of BBC positioning there) Finally "Should you only tick the box about religion if you go to church" in the Census?
3 Responses to BIG QUESTIONS FOR A SUNDAY…
No Nicky, its time to squeeze the overpaid BBC – BBC 2009/10 Accounts Salary – Mark Thompson, Director-General £668,000; Mark Byford, Deputy Director-General £475,000; Jana Bennett, Director, Vision £415,000; Helen Boaden, Director, BBC News £320,000; Richard Sambrook, Director, BBC Global News £299,880
Mr Topshop earns his money, and I don't have to give him mine.
Derek Buxton says:
There is the germ of an idea, a windfall tax on the BBC management, to be paid from their salaries and expenses NOT the license fee.
Squeezing the rich (aka wealth and job creators) in the way that Comrade Nicky and his fellow Beboids want is like squeezing a tube of toothpaste in a vice; it all leaves the tube and goes everywhere but only a small amount will end up on the toothbrush to do what you want it to do.
That is the sum total of Beboid/SWP economics.


text:
Entertainment Celebrity Royal Lilibet for President: Sussex newborn caught in name controversy
10:00pm, Jun 7, 2021 Updated: 8:01am, Jun 8
Lilibet for President: Sussex newborn caught in name controversy
Cassandra Tassios
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have welcomed their second child, Lilibet 'Lili' Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, but the new baby Sussex is a little different from the last.
Baby Lilibet arrived on Friday, June 4, at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in California, close to where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex live.
And while other members of the royal family are busy congratulating the brood on their latest addition, others are wondering which special considerations will apply to the new baby – and why they chose that name.
Like big brother Archie, 2, baby Lilibet will have dual citizenship between Britain and the US.
Lili isn't the first royal to be born on US soil, but she is by far the closest in line to the throne.
She could therefore be eligible to run for President while being eighth in line – a move many have encouraged her mother to consider.
The only other royal to be born in the US is Maud Windsor, 7, the daughter of Prince Harry's distant cousin Lord Frederick Windsor.
Maud is 52nd in line to the throne.
Although Archie was born in Britain in May 2019, he lives in the US and has an American mother, making him eligible for passports for both countries.
The circumstances surrounding the Sussexes' royal status are vastly different for Lilibet's birth, compared to Archie's.
At the time of Archie's birth, Harry and Meghan were still senior royals, so many aspects of the birth were controlled, according to tradition, by the palace.
This included the birth announcement, which was made by Buckingham Palace.
As the Sussexes have stepped down as senior royals, news of Lili's birth was kept under wraps until Sunday – two days after she was born.
Harry and Meghan made the announcement themselves this time, and weren't subjected to the same first photo fanfare that surrounded Archie's birth, as well as the birth of Prince William and Kate Middleton's three children.
Like Archie, Lilibet won't have a royal title, though the siblings are likely to be upgraded to prince and princess when their grandfather, Prince Charles ascends the throne.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex with son Archie in May 2019 – the first the world saw of him.
A Lili by any other name
The Sussexes announced on their Archewell website that it was the Queen who inspired the name.
"Lili is named after her great-grandmother, Her Majesty The Queen, whose family nickname is Lilibet. Her middle name, Diana, was chosen to honour her beloved late grandmother, The Princess of Wales," the statement read.
Social media users were quick to criticise the couple for the name, believing it was inappropriate given their chequered past with the Queen.
Tweet from @darrengrimes_
Others speculated that the royal family, who the Sussexes recently accused of racism, would be furious to learn the child was named after the monarch.
Tweet from @VntageGirlyGlam
But most Twitter users believed the name was a cute tribute to the "strong women" in Prince Harry's life.
Tweet from @iwanttobeamedic
Meghan Markle Prince Harry Royal Family
Surprise Meghan and Harry details emerge after birth of daughter Lili in US


text:
Jean-Baptiste Luton Durival (* 4. Juli 1725 in Saint-Aubin-sur-Aire; † 14. Februar 1810 in Heillecourt) war ein französischer Historiker, Politiker und Enzyklopädist.

Leben und Wirken
Sein Vater war der Officier de la garde robe de Son Altesse royale (S.A.R.) Jacques Durival. Dieser war seit dem 29. Oktober 1712 mit Anne Humblot in Commercy verheiratet, der Mutter der Kinder. Insgesamt bestand die Familie aus drei Söhnen einen älteren Sohn Nicolas Luton Durival, dann Jean-Baptiste Luton und Claude Durival (1728–1805) sowie zwei Töchtern Catherine und Marie Anne Durival.

Während Jean-Baptiste Luton Durival Staatssekretär des Rates und der Finanzen, secrétaire des conseils d'État et des finances unter Stanislaus I. Leszczyński wurde, übernahm der jüngere Bruder das Amt eines ersten Sekretärs für auswärtige Angelegenheiten, premier secrétaire des affaires étrangères unter dem Duc de Étienne-François de Choiseul.
Im Jahre 1777 wurde er aus offiziellen Gründen nach Holland beordert. Er war mit Louise Élisabeth Dufrène (1738–1819) verheiratet.

Er schrieb für die Encyclopédie einen Artikel über die Kriegskunst Art militaire. Darüber hinaus war er Mitglied der Académie de Stanislas.

Werke (Auswahl)
 Essai sur l'Infanterie française. (1760)
 Détails militaires. (1758)
 Le Point d'honneur
 Histoire du règne de Philippe, traduite avec Mirabeau de l'anglais de Watson. Amsterdam, (1777)
 Description de la Lorraine et du Barrois.
 Recueil des observations météorologiques.

Weblinks
 ARTFL Encyclopédie Project - Robert Morrissey, General Editor; Glenn Roe, Assoc. Editor

Einzelnachweise

Franzose
Mitglied der Académie de Stanislas
Autor
Historiker
Enzyklopädist (Encyclopédie)
Geboren 1725
Gestorben 1810
Mann

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Spring–Summer 2016
Autumn 2018 Spring–Summer 2017 Winter 2017 Autumn 2017 Winter–Spring ... Autumn 2016 Summer 2016 Spring 2015 Winter 2015 Autumn 2015 Summer 2015 Annual Awards 2015 Annual Awards 2016 Annual Awards 2017
COMMUNITY - David ...
COMMUNITY - David Kaunitz and MAPA
TECHNE – Jed Long and Rana Abboud
Pathways to Emerging ...
Pathways to Emerging Practice
INTRODUCTION - ARCHITECTS OF AMBITION
MANIFESTO - Linda Kennedy and Archrival
SMALL - TRIAS and studioplusthree
BIG - UP (Urban Possible) and Stewart Hollenstein
STEWARDSHIP - Elizabeth Sandoval and Lucy Burke-Smith
TECHNE - Jed Long and Rana Abboud
The big leap – then and now - Peter Tonkin
Enduring Architecture Award: Reader's Digest Building - Noni Boyd
Reflections on Paul Pholeros and the thingness of things - Richard Leplastrier, Sandra Meihubers, Yami Lester, Michael Tawa, John Roberts, Heleana Genaus
2016 Country Division Architecture Awards - Tricia Helyar
Achieving a successful future with CPD - Shaun Carter
Peggy Chesterman - Mirvac Design
High-Rise - David Tickle
Jed Long
As a co-founder of Sydney-based architecture collective Cave Urban, Jed Long approaches design with an emphasis on sustainability, community engagement and the continuation of vernacular tradition. He views the fluid relationship between art and architecture as a means to explore, create and test new structural systems outside the confines of the architectural profession
Rana Abboud
Rana Abboud is a project architect working at BVN. Her practice, independent research, university teachings and interactive art installations revolve around cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to shape the architecture industry's future
How do you practice within the field of architecture?
JED LONG: I practice as part of an experimental architectural practice called Cave Urban. We collaborate with a diverse range of international artists, organisations and experts who introduce us to a range of design methodologies, philosophies and global communities. We treat every installation as an opportunity to experiment with ideas. What we create as art or pavilions filters through to our architectural practice, with clients becoming engaged with and inspired by the philosophies of design we are exploring in our public work.
RANA ABBOUD: Since completing a research Masters at Berkeley over a decade ago, I've been working full time within established architectural practices while indulging in freelance competitions, university teaching and independent research as a creative outlet. I've recently resumed my role as an architect at BVN after a whirlwind year spent on maternity leave, in which I ran a final-year design studio at UTS and completed my third interactive installation for the VIVID light festival with my husband Ewen Wright. I've also found that it has been through installation art that I've been able to experiment with ideas about space and technology.
Can you define your principal architectural ambitions?
RA: I'm fascinated by how new technologies can shape the way we live and work. One of my main ambitions is to contribute to explorations and discussions about cutting-edge technologies that have the potential to shape our industry's future. Winning the NAWIC International Women's Day Scholarship in 2013, enabled me to research the opportunities and obstacles for the key disruptive technology of our time: augmented reality (AR). My study tour around the US and Europe allowed me to meet with AR's pioneers, piquing my interest in the medium's potential across all phases of architectural practice.
JL: Practicing in an interdisciplinary arena allows us to define our own identity and design philosophy. Research and experimentation at the junction of art and architecture allow us to challenge traditional architectural paradigms. Recently I was awarded a Byera Hadley Scholarship to research the notion of permanence. Western society often associates permanence with materiality and durability. Cultural and social relevance is a far greater determinant to the longevity of a building. Cave Urban engages with these notions of impermanence by creating temporal structures, which enables us to engage with space, landscape and the experience of the inhabitant. Most importantly, a sense of community is established by those participating in the build.
Can you describe a particular project you have engaged with which has been developed in that ambition?
JL: Last year we created a work titled Near Kin Kin for Art & About Sydney. It was a 24-metre-high tower of bamboo that sat in the forecourt of Customs House, setting up a relationship between the two forms. The organic materiality of bamboo, which allows for complex spaces to be created in a short time frame, was intended to juxtapose the surrounding urban environment. We aimed to create a structure that enveloped visitors in an internal space that evoked the sensations of being submerged in a forest.
Since bamboo is abundant throughout much of the developing world, it is recognised for the important role it can play in post-disaster relief. By recontextualising the knowledge I have gathered through experimental architecture and art, I have been able to apply it to a humanitarian setting. This process has in turn generated new ideas that we can then bring back to the other components of our practice.
RA: My installation art has also allowed me to develop my ambition, which relates to exploring ideas around technology and the built form. From my VIVID installation DIGITALIS (2013) and CLAPICONIA (2014) to this year's UNFURLII, a recurring theme in my installations – each completed on a shoestring budget in our spare room – has been the interaction of 'sentient' creatures with an audience. UNFURLII, for example, was designed to kinetically curl itself up and move out of the reach of its audience below. While initially presenting as a visually static ladder of light bars, it surprised viewers by moving and changing colour when they reached up to touch or engage with it. The potential for architecture – largely a static enterprise – to similarly morph and engage with people through embedded technologies intrigues me greatly.
How do you see those ambitions in relation to the wider practice of architecture?
RA: My fascination with the new technologies that stand to impact our profession has much to do with wanting to make environments more responsive to their human audience. Today, the practice of architecture revolves around buildings that are largely frozen in space. What if technologies could allow the frozen physicality of a building to alter and interact with its occupants in more useful and engaging ways?
JL: I am also interested in how environments respond to their inhabitants. I believe that buildings are not finished objects, but enablers of transition. Often we make the mistake of assuming that once we sign off on a building that it is finished. This occurs in any setting from an emergency humanitarian response to a public building that serves the needs of an ever-changing community. Community engagement from the beginning of the design process ensures that current needs are met but it can also help forecast what may occur in the future. A building, no matter what it is made of, will not last long if it fails to engage with the cultural, social and climatic issues of place.
Do you see these ambitions as reconciling a current deficit in the practice of architecture?
JL: Yes, very much so. I think computers are incredible tools for design but I find at times they propagate flat architecture. Where is the connection to the wider historical tapestry of place, to a sense of materiality or a profound spatial experience?
The failure of architecture to adapt to the changing needs of society contributes to the rapid rate at which we demolish buildings to create another. This is a process that is completely out of sync with the notion of sustainability.
RA: I think the appetite for the risk to trial new technologies does not exist with most building projects. Understandably, clients rarely accept the possibility of failure inherent in risk-taking. There is a gap between the frontline of technological research and development – be it in academia or private industry – and architectural practice. My thesis advisor at Berkeley, the former director of the Centre for New Media, often said that architectural practice was roughly ten years behind pioneering academic research, due to the conservative nature of our industry and its resistance to change when faced with new technologies.
What are your thoughts on the future of architectural practice?
RA: I am optimistic about the future of architecture practice. For so long, architects have coded information about 3D objects using predominantly 2D means, and the emergence of new technologies that bring with them new ways of looking at information will disrupt this tradition. Architects today are aware of the history and skill required in freehand drawing to communicate ideas; are using BIM; and eventually, will discuss workflows where BIM is a prerequisite for other media, including AR. New roles will emerge – similar to the model managers brought about by BIM – and, inevitably, new frustrations with technology will surface also. What an exciting time to be an architect!
JL: It is realistic to assume technology will play an ever-increasing role in our lives. I think the question then becomes: how can the practice of architecture maintain meaning in the presence of an automation of process? What I desire is a timeless architecture that gives new meaning to the works of the past and supplies context to the works of the future. The answer lies in non-homogenous architecture that can adapt to the needs of the community. This idea does not necessitate technological innovation, as different cultures have been creating buildings that can change to suit various uses for thousands of years. Instead of dismissing vernacular building as nostalgic, we should respect how these forms have adapted to suit their climate, landscape and culture.
Near Kin Kin by Cave Urban (artist Juan Pablo Pinto) was a 22-metre bamboo sculpture installed at the forecourt of Customs House Square for Art & About Sydney 2015. Photo: Juan Pablo Pinto
CLAPICONIA, an interactive sound and light installation by Rana Abboud and Ewen Wright for VIVID Light 2014


Are you ready for an apprentice style race around the city? In two hours, we will be challenging groups of 2-3 to earn as many points as possible by collecting, photographic or visiting set things around zone 1.
Teams will meet at our office for a briefing where you will receive the list. There will be more items than you will have time to collect, so choose your tactics wisely! The more challenging the item, the higher the points. After two hours, everyone will reconvene at the office for celebratory drinks, nibbles and networking, whilst the points are counted and winners announced.
The evening is a great fun team building activity for your work team, with proceeds going to support Family Action's work with Family Action. Find out more about our work here.
To enter a team, contact Emma on 020 7241 7608 or at emma.sorrell@family-action.org.uk.


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Attendance Procedure. 1 Scope
Download "Attendance Procedure. 1 Scope"
Silvester Jenkins
1 Attendance Procedure 1 Scope BT s attendance procedure sets out the roles, responsibilities and the steps for managing people where levels of sickness absence have an unacceptable operational impact on the business. The procedure ensures individuals with impaired capability will be supported appropriately and treated with fairness and consideration whilst allowing the company to provide a high quality service to its customers. 2 Roles and responsibilities All BT Employees have a responsibility to: Make every reasonable effort to maintain good health, attend for work and record attendance where required. Let their manager know as soon as possible if they are unable to attend work for any reason, giving an explanation for their absence. Obtain their manager s agreement to leave their workplace/activities during required hours of attendance or to return late from a break of specified duration. Inform their manager as soon as possible of any changes in their health which may affect their ability to carry out their work effectively. Comply with additional local arrangements for reporting and recording of absence/return. Provide fit notes promptly to their line manager to cover relevant periods of sick absence. If sick certificates are not provided, pay can be withheld. Communicate regularly and effectively with their manager during any period of absence and ensure they remain contactable. Advise their manager if they change their normal address, either permanently or temporarily during a period of absence. Refrain from undertaking activities during sickness absence that may adversely affect a return to work. Attend scheduled OHS appointments as required. If an individual declines the offer of an OHS appointment, any necessary decisions may be taken on the information available. Attend a return to work discussion with their manager. First Line Managers Have a responsibility to: Manage attendance in a compassionate and business like way using their judgement to ensure that procedures and processes are applied fairly and taking due account of all relevant circumstances. Ensure all their people's absences and returns are properly reported on the BT HR System. This includes recording details of medical certificates. Records of part day absences should be recorded on the BT HR System. Ensure that they and their people are aware of and understand BT s policy on attendance and sickness absence. Ensure their people understand the standards of attendance required and the reasons for any action taken under the procedure. Conduct a Return to Work Discussion following every absence and keep appropriate records Latest revision of this document: This revision:
2 Maintain regular contact with their people throughout an absence, including face to face meetings, and keep a record of all contact. Seek advice from their case advisor and the OHS as required in support of achieving a successful return to work. Encourage their people to update BT on any changes that may occur in their circumstances as soon as possible Offer the opportunity of contacting the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and any other support which may be available through the company. Properly investigate reasonable adjustments which will facilitate an individual s effective return to work and/or continued productive employment. Discuss and agree them with the employee and ensure effective implementation through a return to work plan. (see Adjustments) Apply the New Joiners Procedure if the individual is in the specified qualifying period. Advise individuals whose standard of attendance is causing concern of the possible implications of not achieving and sustaining improvement to acceptable levels. Prompts may be given through the HR System or by discussion with their case advisor, but advice should be provided at any time attendance is causing concern. Monitor the attendance of their people and take action if it is unsatisfactory, including the issuing of formal warnings where appropriate Refer individuals to the OHS for advice where there are health questions relating to an individual s absence and/or fitness to perform their normal duties. Ensure their people are actively encouraged and given practical support to attend OHS appointments. Establish, where necessary, monitoring periods, to enable people to demonstrate an improvement in their attendance and make individuals aware of how long each monitoring period will last. Inform individuals of progress at all stages of the process and that they may discuss their circumstances with their union representative. Undertake a job search under the Adjusted Job Search process when it is confirmed that an individual is unfit for their current role, that reasonable adjustments to their role cannot be identified and that it has been recommended by the OHS that they may be able to undertake alternative work. Complete and return all appropriate documentation in a timely manner. Seek advice and guidance from their HR Services case advisor where necessary and in all cases when applying the formal stages of this procedure. However, the final decision will rest with BT. Second Line Managers Have a responsibility to: Investigate, review and decide on cases where termination of employment is being recommended by First Line Managers. In each case where they are considering pursuing the recommendation, provide the individual with every reasonable opportunity to attend an interview. If an individual is unable or unwilling to attend a face to face meeting, advice must be taken from their HR Services case advisor before proceeding. Carefully consider every aspect of the case and review all opportunities for reasonable adjustments or redeployment. Ensure that any decision to terminate employment is made fairly and is supported by a robust business rationale.
3 Seek advice from their HR Services case advisor where necessary, and in all cases when applying the formal stages of this procedure. However, the final decision will rest with BT. Complete and return all appropriate documentation in a timely manner. Ensure there is a consistent approach to managing absence across the team. Third Line Managers Have a responsibility to: Consider any appeal against the second line manager s decision to terminate employment. Carefully consider every aspect of the case and review all opportunities for reasonable adjustments or redeployment. Ensure that the appeal decision is made fairly and that it is supported by a robust business rationale if taking the decision not to uphold the appeal. Provide the individual with a response to any points made on appeal and an explanation of the decision. HR Services Will provide the following support to BT Managers: Advice and guidance from the earliest stages of absence. Case manage the progress of all cases through to resolution, providing options and recommendations at key stages. Final decisions on action rest with BT managers. Provide draft letters and work with the manager on the production of final documents. Co-ordinate action where more than one procedure is involved (e.g. discipline, performance). Assist with preparation of referrals to the OHS or other 3 rd parties, such as those assisting with adjustments or rehabilitation. Assist managers in identifying reasonable adjustments and developing a return to work plan, engaging with external organisations as necessary. Help managers identify and produce an appropriate rehabilitation plan for an individual s return to work. Regularly review an individual s progress with their manager during the period if a phased return to normal work has been agreed with the individual. Occupational Health Service (OHS) Will provide the following support to BT Managers: Identify any long term health problem that, despite suitable and sufficient treatment, is likely to result in future spells of absence which are beyond the control of the individual. Provide advice to help individuals manage their own health better in order to improve their overall attendance. Assist in recommendations for workplace adjustments and return to work plans. Recommend other sources of help and assistance to support return to work where appropriate. Define ongoing capability including any permanent restrictions and measures to assist rehabilitation. Advise managers whether individuals are likely to fall within the scope of the Equality Act in the UK or the Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland. Input highly specialised advice on complex cases through dedicated Core OHS staff.
4 3 Return to work discussion A Return to Work Discussion should be held after every spell of sickness absence regardless of duration or reason. This demonstrates interest in the individual as well as offering a practical opportunity to address any employment difficulties - it is accepted good management practice. Every effort should be made to conduct the discussion in a caring and non-threatening way that facilitates the sharing of relevant information and the identification of any adjustments that might be indicated. Advice on conducting Return to Work Discussions can be accessed here. Where an absence has been for an extended period the discussion should include: Capability for the work to be undertaken. Arrangements for any rehabilitation plan and/or reasonable adjustments that might be required, including timescales and review periods. OHS or other specialist advice that might be required or which has been obtained. In the event of repeated spells of absence the Return to Work discussion should include: The attendance level expected, taking into account any recurring health problems or disability related reasonable adjustments. Any improvement that is required, supported by an action plan if appropriate. The potential consequences of a failure to improve to an acceptable level. A separate procedure covering adjustments can be accessed here. This procedure describes the practices and processes used to assist those employees who, due to injury or medical condition, become less able to complete their current duties effectively. This period of changed capability may be long term or temporary, but in all cases the key objective is to enable the individual to resume, or continue in, productive employment. That employment may be within their existing team, unit, Line of Business or BT as a whole. The requirement for external support such as OHS, Physiotherapy, Employee Assistance Programme or other specialist advisory services may be raised by the individual or manager at any point. 4 Extended absence Managers must keep in regular contact with individuals during extended spells of absence. This is a critical aspect of support which speeds recovery and aids rehabilitation it is therefore mandatory unless there are overriding considerations which should be discussed and agreed with the case advisor and suitable alternative arrangements made. A rehabilitation plan should be discussed with all people who are absent for an extended period, to consider how to ease their return into full productive employment. Temporary adjustments are often required but, in most cases, will not be required for more than one month. Circumstances may sometimes indicate that a longer rehabilitation period is required but extension of temporary adjustments beyond six months would be exceptional and should only be sanctioned on the basis of expert advice from Core OHS. If long term or permanent adjustments are required to prevent a person being placed at a substantial disadvantage in relation to maintaining regular attendance in effective
5 employment, these should be based on an up to date OHS capability assessment. Every reasonable effort should be made to accommodate permanent adjustments within the business unit but, where that is not possible, a comprehensive search for alternative duties must be undertaken. Details of how to support the individual and conduct an alternative duty search are given in the Adjusted Job Search procedure. If a spell of absence becomes extended to the point where it is operationally unacceptable or permanent adjustments are required to effect a return to work and neither these nor alternative duties are viable, then termination of employment must be considered. Such action requires most careful consideration which must include appropriate input from the HR Services Case Management Team Services and the OHS. Specialist input can help line managers not only with the decision making process but also with advice on associated issues such as pension or benefit entitlement and how best to communicate messages of particular sensitivity. 5 Repeated absence Some health problems result in fluctuating levels of capability so that the impact on attendance is of repeated spells rather than a single lengthy episode. However, the same principles apply of supporting the individual as far as is practicable and making adjustments or seeking alternative work, making use of the Occupational Health Service and the Adjusted Job Search Process where appropriate. More commonly, repeated absence cannot be related to any specific health issue but managers should satisfy themselves that this is the case by talking to the individual concerned and, where appropriate, by seeking OHS guidance when considering the overall impact on the business. Managers should monitor their people s patterns of attendance, which may include part day absences, and use the Return to Work Discussion to identify problems, enlist appropriate support and coach improvement. When it becomes clear that an individual s absence pattern is becoming unacceptable, the manager should additionally hold an informal discussion to advise them of the potential consequences of future absence. It is important to avoid being judgemental about the causes of repeated absence and attempts to identify whether reasons for absence are genuine or otherwise are inappropriate and unproductive. It is the impact absences are having on the business that determines whether management action is indicated and, while individual circumstances will influence the nature of any action taken, there are no automatic exclusions from giving the matter consideration. Similarly triggers generated by the BT HR System or HR Services Case Management team are simply a flag that management attention is required and should not be interpreted as the automatic initiator of a warning process. Initial Formal Warning for Repeated Absence When an individual s attendance is below the standard expected and normal supervisory/managerial guidance and support have not produced the necessary improvement, managers should seriously consider the issue of an initial formal warning. Full account should be taken of recurrent health problems or disability and the impact that this might have on ability to attain normal standards of attendance. If a manager believes that absence may be pregnancy related then advice should be sought from the HR services Case Management team before any action is taken. Any exceptional or mitigating circumstances should also be taken into account. If the individual has or may have a recurrent health problem or disability, OHS advice should be sought on whether this is affecting their attendance, if adjustments are indicated, whether medical management of the condition
6 can be improved and on the anticipated level of future associated absence. Managers must consider all relevant circumstances and make a conscious decision whether it is reasonable to discount any absences. If the indication is that an initial formal warning may be appropriate, the individual must be given due notice in a written invitation to attend a meeting at which there is a right be accompanied. Having considered all the evidence previously gathered and that presented at the meeting, the manager must decide whether to give a warning. Any such warning must be given in writing and include both the monitoring period and confirmation that a failure to achieve a sustained improvement to the stipulated standard may lead to a final formal warning. Whether or not it is decided to issue a warning, the line manager should seek guidance from the case advisor on procedural issues and confirm actions taken via the HR System. Final Formal Warning for Repeated Absence If a sustained improvement has not been achieved following an initial formal warning, the line manager should consider all the facts and circumstances of the case before deciding whether a final formal warning is appropriate. Particular attention should be paid to any factors, such as a deterioration in health and/or the development of a disability, which might alter the complexion of the case and indicate the need for additional specialist advice. If it is decided to proceed to consideration of a final formal warning, the line manager must again seek guidance from the case advisor. The individual must be given notice in a written invitation to attend a meeting at which there is a right to be accompanied. After due consideration of all the circumstances, a decision must be made by the manager whether to issue a formal warning or not. A final formal warning must be given in writing and guidance must be sought from the case advisor before it is issued. The individual must be advised that failure to achieve a sustained improvement in attendance following this final formal warning could lead to dismissal. Improvement after a Formal Warning for Repeated Absences Where, following a formal warning (either initial or final), an individual achieves and maintains a satisfactory level of attendance, the manager, having consulted the case advisor, will close the process on HR System and inform the individual, normally in writing. In cases where only a partial improvement has been achieved, the warning period may be extended if the manager decides not to progress to the next stage. If a clear cyclical pattern emerges (i.e. sequential improvements and relapses) the procedure will continue or be resumed without the need for the process to be restarted from the initial formal warning stage. If a formal warning has previously been given the case may progress to the final warning stage. If a final warning has previously been given the case can proceed directly to consideration of termination of employment. Such cases require especially careful consideration and guidance must always be sought from the case advisor. Termination of employment Termination of employment will need to be considered if there is failure to achieve/sustain improvement following a final formal warning for repeated absence or where an extended absence becomes unsustainable. Following consultation with the case advisor, the first line manager may recommend to the second line manager that consideration be given to termination of employment. When termination is recommended, the second line manager
7 must review the individual's case. The second line manager must ensure at this stage that procedures for determining eligibility for any pension benefits (e.g. retirement in the interests of efficiency or medical retirement) are activated. Additionally particular consideration must be given to issues such as grave ill health so that matters can be addressed with the degree of compassion that the company would expect of its people. A separate procedure covering the assessment of any medical retirement pension benefits that may be payable can be accessed here and information on retirement in the interests of efficiency can be found here. The individual must be given written notification that termination of employment is being considered. This should include: the grounds on which termination is being considered. the circumstances and evidence leading to the decision stage being reached. a statement of the pension implications where retirement is under consideration and will involve immediate payment of pension and/or a lump sum. a reminder of the availability of the OHS/Employee Assistance. an invitation to attend an interview to put forward their case, with a reminder of their right to be accompanied by a 'friend', for example, an accredited trade union representative or another BT employee. The second line manager must hold a decision meeting at which the individual should be given the opportunity to input any information which they feel is relevant to their continued employment. Advice on procedural aspects should be sought from the case advisor and will mirror those of the other formal stages of the procedure. Specifically the individual must be given every reasonable opportunity to attend the meeting in person and be represented. A flexible approach should be adopted to ensure that the individual's circumstances do not prevent fair consideration of all relevant factors (e.g. individuals who are hospitalised or house bound). In the rare circumstances where, despite all reasonable attempts to accommodate a face to face meeting, the individual indicates that he/she is unwilling or unable to attend then he/she must be given the opportunity to submit written representations. The second line manager must consider all aspects of the case carefully and should contact the case advisor before making any decision. The individual must be given written notification of the decision by the second line manager. If the case relates to repeated absence and the decision is not to dismiss, consideration should always be given to whether the final formal warning monitoring period should be extended. In the event of it being extended the individual should be advised that a satisfactory attendance record must be achieved and maintained and that failure to do so will mean that a further decision meeting will be held. If the decision is made to dismiss, the second line manager must prepare a robust business rationale which takes into account all of the circumstances of the case. Grounds for dismissal may be unsatisfactory attendance or, more usually where there is a specific underlying health problem, impaired capability due to ill health. In cases of dismissal the letter to the individual must include: the reason for the decision. any pension terms that will apply.
8 the notice period and arrangements that will apply. the last day of employment. the right to appeal against the decision. Where the grounds for dismissal are impaired capability due to ill health and Core OHS has indicated at the resolution stage that the individual is likely to meet the criteria for medical retirement, the case should not normally move to termination of employment until a definitive opinion on eligibility has been provided. However, termination may be progressed in these cases if there is a material delay in providing a definitive judgement caused by a failure of the individual or their medical advisers to co-operate or respond to reasonable requests for supporting evidence. 6 Right of appeal Individuals may appeal to a more senior manager against a decision to dismiss. Within the written notification of the decision to dismiss, individuals must be informed of their rights to appeal together with details of the required time limits. If an appeal is made the notice period will not be extended but an appeal may still be heard after the last day of service. The individual must be invited to attend an appeal hearing against a decision to dismiss at which they have the right to be accompanied. The results of any appeal and the reasons for the decision will be confirmed in writing. The procedure for appeals relating to medical retirement pension benefits can be accessed here. Appeal decisions are final. The Grievance procedure can be accessed here. If an appeal against termination of employment is successful the individual should normally be offered reinstatement. If last day of employment has already elapsed, the date of reinstatement will be backdated to reflect continuous employment. 7 Right to be accompanied At all formal stages of the procedure, individuals will have the right to be accompanied by a 'friend' to meetings. The 'friend' can be a BT employee, or an accredited representative from a trades union. The role of the friend will be to: Support the individual throughout the meeting, and act as a witness to the proceedings. If the individual wishes them to, a 'friend' can address the meeting, put the individual s case, sum up the case and respond on the individual s behalf to any view expressed at the hearing. They can also confer with the individual, ask questions and participate in the hearing. They will however not be able to answer questions on the individuals' behalf unless invited to do so by the investigating manager. 8 Notice period The contractual notice period is indicated in the Employee Terms and Conditions publication. Outstanding annual leave should be taken if possible during the notice period.
9 If individuals wish to waive their right to notice, wholly or partly, they must be permitted to do so. 9 Access to documents The individual or, with their written consent, their union representative will, on request, normally be given access to relevant BT papers (i.e. absence or monitoring records). These documents are intended to allow the individual to prepare and present their case adequately and will be provided on the condition that they are treated in confidence. 10 Summary of standard levels of authority Stage of procedure Initial Formal Warning Final Formal Warning Termination of Employment Appeal Independent Review Level of Authority First Line Manager First Line Manager Second Line Manager Third Line Manager See final stage of BT s Grievance Procedure The levels of authority specified above are based on an assumption that in any line organisation there will be 4 higher reporting levels below Board level. Where this is not the case, managers may be introduced into the process at appropriate points once a case has arisen. Normally, this will be a manager from the relevant operational specialism rather than from HR. 11 Related processes BT s policies and procedures covering: Grievance Discipline Equal Opportunities Conduct Standards New Joiners proceedure Adjusted Job Search Medical Retirement Benefits This procedure replaces the attendance components of: Poor Performance/Attendance Procedure - PNL/EMP/A035
10 Long Term Illness Procedure - PNL/EMP/K045


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US Platinum Jewelry Demand Starts 2022 on a Strong Note
SurveysJun 29, 2022
Retail ounce sales were up 23 percent year-over-year in Q1, according to the recent Platinum Jewellery Business Review.
Brecken Branstratorbrecken.branstrator@nationaljeweler.com
PGI said sales of its Platinum Born collection, pictured here, doubled year-over-year in Q1.
New York—Despite supply chain challenges and economic obstacles associated with the Russia-Ukraine war, platinum jewelry sales in the U.S. started the year on a strong foot.
According to the Platinum Guild International's most recent Platinum Jewellery Business Review, platinum jewelry ounce sales at PGI's U.S. partners were up 23 percent year-over-year in the first quarter.
Bridal jewelry and gemstone fashion jewelry saw strong momentum during the quarter with double-digit growth compared to the prior-year period, while diamond fashion jewelry sales jumped by double digits, according to PGI.
PGI also noted its branded collection, Platinum Born, saw sales double in Q1.
All of this came despite the U.S. GDP contracting by an annualized rate of 1.5 percent in Q1, reflecting decreases in private inventory investment, exports, and government spending.
Also, in March, inflation across all categories rose to historic levels—8.5 percent year-over year. The stock market rose during the month but then stumbled again on the last day of the quarter.
The Consumer Confidence Index was up slightly in March following a February increase, though it was still below January levels, and the Expectations Index maintained its downward trend amid increased concerns over rising prices and the Russia-Ukraine war, challenges that are expected to limit spending further in the months ahead.
Still, PGI said its U.S. partners are predicting positive results for the rest of 2022, noting the jewelry industry may have some insulation against continued inflation as luxury consumers are not yet feeling the squeeze.
PGI also conducted a consumer sentiment survey, interviewing 2,000 jewelry buyers and wearers from ages 18 to 65 in four key markets—China, India, Japan, and the U.S.—who have bought or expect to buy fine jewelry.
Results of the survey show that demand in most markets continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, PGI said, however it noted that as it was conducted in mid-March, results don't reflect the sentiments that might have been negatively affected by the latest lockdown measures in China.
Key insights from the March survey are as follows.
--The majority of U.S. consumers have plans to acquire non-bridal fine jewelry in the next 12 months—57 percent of surveyed consumers plan to buy jewelry for themselves and 62 percent plan to buy jewelry as a gift in the next 12 months, down from 63 and 67 percent in August 2021, respectively.
--More consumers plan to buy bridal in India, China, and Japan in the next 12 months compared with August 2021, while there is a decline in the U.S.
--American consumer sentiment towards the future economy has also dropped, with less than 40 percent believing it will improve within the next six months.
--Retail stores are still critical for jewelry sales and remain the top channel for jewelry purchases in all markets.
--Preference for online jewelry shopping has stayed relatively stable in Japan, China, and the U.S., while seeing a 3 percent increase in India.
--Consumers in the U.S. are showing a higher awareness of responsible sourcing of jewelry materials, and 72 percent of surveyed Americans said they believe responsibly sourced jewelry is important.
--Of all the key sustainability factors affecting jewelry buying decisions, 77 percent of Americans chose "responsibly sourced materials" as one of the top three important factors, which is up from 63 percent last August. Fifty-four percent chose "environmental impact," and 51 percent chose "traceability of materials," up 3 percent from last year's survey.
SurveysMay 19, 2022
5 Predictions for Jewelry Retail in the Second Half of 2022
SurveysApr 28, 2022
Inflation Not Taking Huge Toll on Consumer Confidence, Yet
SurveysMar 31, 2022
4 Findings from PGI's Consumer Survey About Sustainability and Jewelry
Brecken Branstratoris the senior editor, gemstones at National Jeweler, covering sourcing, pricing and other developments in the colored stone sector.
More on Surveys
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WJA Announces New International Board Members
The seven newcomers include executives from David Yurman, De Beers, and GIA.


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Home Americas Twice As Lethal As Bayraktars, US To Sell The 'Most Advanced UAV'...
Twice As Lethal As Bayraktars, US To Sell The 'Most Advanced UAV' Ever Operated By Ukraine To Battle Russia
The Biden administration reportedly intends to sell Ukraine four MQ-1C Gray Eagle drones capable of carrying Hellfire missiles. The move aims to provide Kiev with more sophisticated and highly armed drone technology to battle Russia.
Capable Of Striking Any Part Of US, Russia Conducts 'Massive Drills' With Nuclear-Capable Yars 24 Missile
The sale of the General Atomics-made drones could still be rejected by Congress, according to the Reuters report, which also mentions the possibility of a last-minute policy turnaround derailing the plan.
Ukraine has already employed several drones, notably the Switchblade from AeroVironment and the Bayraktar from Turkey. But the Gray Eagle from General Atomics is more sophisticated and more robustly weaponized than all the systems used by Ukraine.
The Gray Eagle is considered one of the most advanced drones in the world because it can fly for up to 30 hours or more and can collect massive amounts of data for intelligence operations. Gray Eagles are the Army's version of the more well-known Predator drone and are also capable of carrying up to eight deadly Hellfire missiles.
US Army's MQ-1C Grey Eagle – Twitter
The sale would place a highly sophisticated reusable US system capable of numerous deep strikes on the frontline against Russia for the first time. The Biden administration wants to notify Congress of the proposed sale to Ukraine in the coming days, with a public announcement afterward.
The funds would be allotted from the freshly authorized $40 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to support the potential sale and the necessary training for the drones.
"Generally, the MQ-1C is a much larger aircraft with a max take-off weight around three times that of the Bayraktar-TB2, with commensurate advantages in payload capacity, range, and endurance," said drone expert Dan Gettinger with the Vertical Flight Society.
The MQ-1C can also use a wider range of munitions than the Bayraktar-TB2. The Ukrainian Bayraktars are armed with Turkish-made MAM-L missiles weighing 22 kg, roughly half the weight of a Hellfire.
However, training Ukrainian soldiers to pilot General Atomics' Gray Eagle drones will take months, Dan Gettinger said. However, the report said one suggestion is to train skilled Ukrainian maintainers and operators in a matter of weeks.
Meanwhile, before the news on Wednesday that Ukraine will get four HIMARS rocket systems, the Pentagon emphasized the importance of smaller systems such as Javelin anti-tank systems and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, which allies are delivering to Ukraine by a truck daily.
Raytheon Technologies and Lockheed Martin Corp jointly manufacture Javelins, while Raytheon manufactures Stingers.
MQ-1C Gray Eagle
MQ-1C Gray Eagle is an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems for the US Army. It is an enhanced version of the combat-proven Predator UAV.
File Image: Gray Eagle Drone
Gray Eagle has an internal payload capacity of 261 kg and an external payload capacity of 227 kg. It can transport multiple payloads.
Gray Eagle is tasked with operations such as reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition, command and control, communications relay, signals intelligence (SIGINT), electronic warfare (EW), attack, improvised explosive device (IED), and battle damage assessment.
The wingspan of the UAS is larger than that of the Predator. Gray Eagle's modular architecture enables the integration and operation of many payloads. The Gray Eagle has a length of nine meters, a wingspan of 17 meters, and a height of 2.1 meters.
External payloads such as disposable sensors and weaponry can be installed in the wing hardpoints. The aircraft's AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles can hit mobile and stationary ground targets between a range of 500m to eight kilometers.
Gray Eagle is powered by a Thielert heavy-fuel engine. The engine generates 165 horsepower. It reinforces the US Army's single fuel on the battlefield approach. The engine improves fuel efficiency while running on a jet or diesel fuel.
iT is controlled by a single system ground control station (OSGCS). The OSGCS is a modular flight critical hardware and software system placed on a typical five-ton medium tactical vehicle. Command and control, payload control, and weapon launch operations are all carried out via the operator consoles.
The Gray Eagle has a maximum altitude of 29,000 feet. It has a battery life of more than 30 hours. The UAS's maximum gross take-off weight is 1,633kg. The aircraft has a top speed of 150 KTAS.
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WestRock is committed at the highest level to embed diversity and inclusion into the way we do business. It starts with how we recruit talent - by mirroring the rich diversity of the markets we serve. Next, we strive to create a work environment that provides all employees equal access to talent development, information and opportunity. We are a company that respects individuals and fosters a culture of collaboration.


Should I go to the ER for a toothache?
Probably not. ER doctors, surgeons, and physicians cannot practice dentistry, and it is extremely rare to find an ER or urgent care center with an emergency dentist on call. In most cases, a visit to the emergency room or an urgent care center will result in a prescription for some painkillers and/or antibiotics. The emergency room staff will tell you to visit a dentist as soon as possible, and then hand you a bill.
In some extreme (yet very rare) cases, a tooth infection can spread and become a very serious health problem. To avoid an unexpected trip to the ER for a toothache, you should see a dentist once you begin to experience pain. Toothaches almost never disappear on their own, so even if the pain is manageable, you should see the dentist before the problem compounds and becomes more painful and expensive to remedy.
If you have experienced trauma to your face or have not yet taken antibiotics, you may want to consider the ER or an urgent care centers. Antibiotics can reduce the swelling, which may be necessary before a dentist can perform any treatment. But you have been warned – it will not be cheap, and it is not a permanent solution!
For emergencies or general dental work, I can't recommend them enough.


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Q: i need some Telephone Input Plugins for Js Telephone Input Plugins required of JavaScript
i have searched and got these results

*

*https://intl-tel-input.com/

*https://chrome.google.com/webstore/detail/telify/cioaocgapbjhdiodcabjlnihjfbopafb?hl=en

*http://www.abstractcrm.com/
4)https://www.jqueryscript.net/form/jQuery-International-Telephone-Input-With-Flags-Dial-Codes.html
But these does not fulfil my requirements so can anyone provide me more Telephone Input Plugins of JavaScript


Locating the Heisenberg/von Neumann "Cut"
John Bell's "Shifty Split" drawing.
we could find out the reflection of the light quanta on the [thermometer], and the path of the remaining light quanta into the eye of the observer, their refraction in the eye lens, and the formation of an image on the retina, and then we would say: this image is registered by the retina of the observer.
And were our physiological knowledge more precise than it is today, we could go still further, tracing the chemical reactions which produce the impression of this image on the retina, in the optic nerve tract and in the brain, and then in the end say: these chemical changes of his brain cells are perceived by the observer. But in any case, no matter how far we calculate -- to the mercury vessel, to the scale of the thermometer, to the retina, or into the brain, at some time we must say: and this is perceived by the observer. That is, we must always divide the world into two parts, the one being the observed system, the other the observer.
If entropy cannot be carried away, the information is lost.
this is the "cut." Information becomes available for observation at a later time.
The "cut" is also the transition from the quantum world to the "adequately"
classical world that decoherence theorists (Zeh, Zurek) are looking for.


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Infinity Ward reveal what's coming to Modern Warfare & Warzone this week
by Andy Williams
Modern Warfare Warzone
This Modern Warfare update has gone live, you can check out all of the changes, new cosmetics bundles, and the full patch notes here.
Infinity Ward have been drip-feeding content and making tweaks in Modern Warfare throughout the duration of Season 3. The last update saw the return of Shipment 24/7, as well as a temporary removal of helicopters in Warzone, due to an exploit.
But with just under half of the season still left to go, what else do the developers have up their sleeve? Infinity Ward has given us a glimpse at what's to come this week.
We've almost ticked off all the boxes on the Season 3 roadmap.
Iskra: New Modern Warfare Operator
Modern Warfare is getting a fresh face, as Iskra is set to make her debut (well, kind of – Iskra's Operator bundle previously appeared in-store accidentally).
Read more: New Modern Warfare SMG accidentally made available in-game
The Urzikstani native is part of the Chimera Faction and will be available with two Legendary weapon blueprints, a Legendary knife skin, a helicopter skin and an in-game watch to sport on the battlefield.
The Iskra Operator bundle briefly appeared in-game before being removed.
Twin Suns weapon bundle
The 'Twin Suns' bundle will be available in-store throughout the week, offering a 'Parallax' LMG weapon blueprint and a Legendary handgun blueprint.
Read more: Infinity Ward respond to 'broken' Ghost perk in Warzone
Both weapon rigs are designed to favor a 'silent but deadly' approach to your game. So if you're looking to sport them in your Warzone Custom Loadouts, be sure to equip them with Ghost and Cold-Blooded as well as the Dead Silence Field Upgrade, for the ultimate stealthy approach.
The 'Parallax' LMG will come as part of the Twin Suns bundle.
Changes coming to Modern Warfare multiplayer
Looking to up the ante? Infinity Ward are bringing back an old favorite with Demolition this week. Those that have played previous titles will be all too familiar with it.
But if you're wondering how it works (or just looking for a refresher), check out this comprehensive strategy guide if you want to become au fait with the rules of engagement.
Read more: Warzone devs respond to game-breaking respawn glitch
To top things off, a change of pace is coming to Gunfight, as Infinity Ward flick the switch on a 3v3 Knife Only playlist… Leave your firepower at the door, as you'll need to master your craft with Throwing Knives and melee if you want to win with your trio.
'Shoot the Rusty Ship 24/7' is also coming to Modern Warfare, and will see Rust, Shipment and Shoot House combined into one playlist for the ultimate close-quarters moshpit!
Demolition is set to make its explosive Modern Warfare debut!
When is the next Modern Warfare update?
The update is expected to be pushed live on May 13 at 11 AM (PT) / 2 PM (ET) / 6 PM (BST) across all platforms. Some updates for Modern Warfare have gone out at the later time of 11 PM PT, which would push it into the early hours of May 14 for other time zones.
There are a plethora of minor bug fixes expected to come as part of the patch according to the developer's Trello board, all of which are outlined below.
Fixed regiments causing error '13-71.'
Fixed Season 3 emblems that are appearing with developer names.
Resolved character model eyes — weren't "looking the way they should."
Rectified Operator's watch animation — wasn't appearing correctly when gesturing.
Fixed corrupted white lighting that appeared while moving and firing a weapon near certain areas.
Fixed players being in a state where they couldn't interact with the team's Loadout Drop after being brought back into the match.
Removed 'revive prompt' that would appear on character models even though they were alive.
CoD Mobile devs confirm iconic weapon coming in Season 14
TiMi/Activision
The Call of Duty Mobile devs have revealed that one iconic CoD weapon is coming in 2021's Season 1 update, and it should be recognizable to any long-time CoD fan.
For years, Call of Duty fans have begged Infinity Ward, Treyarch, Activision, and anyone else who will listen, for a game that takes the best part of all previous releases and puts them into one.
Increasingly, we're seeing more map remakes, classic weapons returning, and even character crossovers thanks to Warzone, but it's CoD Mobile that really fits the bill of what that all-encompassing CoD game would be.
The mobile game has maps from CoD 4: Modern Warfare, Black Ops 1, as well as weapons from Advanced Warfare and even Black Ops 3 and 4. With the first major update of 2021 just around the corner, the devs have started teasing what's coming next, and we're getting more throwbacks.
CoD Mobile has characters, maps, and weapons from almost every modern Call of Duty game.
Even though CoD Mobile is currently, as of writing, in Season 13, when the first major update of 2021 hits, we'll be back to Season 1. Just like how Fortnite is now Fortnite Chapter 2, Season 5.
Read More: League Play & BO2 Express map confirmed for Black Ops Cold War
Regardless, when players finally get to play the new season update, they'll be able to wield the FAMAS. Yes, the iconic Call of Duty weapon, that has been in a whole host of CoD games is finally arriving in CoD Mobile.
The devs confirmed the news on January 16, tweeting out their first teaser for the new season. "A new weapon is approaching! Can you guess what it is?" they said, with an image and it's fairly obvious that the weapon in question is the FAMAS.
🆕 A new weapon is approaching!
🤔❓ Can you guess what it is?
🔜 Coming in the next season of #CODMobile! pic.twitter.com/wXtg3GR612
— Call of Duty: Mobile (@PlayCODMobile) January 16, 2021
The name of the iconic weapon might get a slight tweak when it is added to CoD Mobile. The devs have tweaked the names of other recognizable guns before, just to give it a new feel for the mobile game.
There's also the question of whether it'll be as powerful as it was, say, back in Black Ops 1. Hopefully, we don't have to wait too long.


This concept can be applied by agile teams and coaches as a tool to determine at what stage the team is and to choose how to proceed deliberately.
SHU is the stage of the beginner who want to acquire a solid foundation through imitation of what is shown and Explained. If the team in the SHU phase, it is not particularly mature and it is advisable to follow the rules of agile methodology.
HA is the stage in which "the learner" mastered the techniques and now the background of the techniques and forms begin to question and understand. If the team is mature and already in the HA phase, it can adapt certain rules (breaking) to achieve better results.
In the RI stage has "the learner" recorded the knowledge of his master completely and is even matured into champions. It is possible for him to move away from a parent point of view of what has been said and to follow his own opinion about the procedure. In the last phase RI agile team is to define capable new rules and expect best results.
•	Is the team "new to Agile" or new as a team, then it is in the phase SHU.
Has the team changed agile practices, or even deleted and have lost the idea behind these practices? Has the team "agile" mixed with other methods, so that the procedure is not even the team clear? Is the team irritated when you mention the Agile Manifesto? If any of these questions will be answered positively, then the team has prematurely entered the HA phase! The team is in SHU and needs to coach at this stage!
•	Lives the team the ideals of the Agile Manifesto? Reflecting the behavior of the team that represents people and interactions, functioning software, collaboration with customers and quick response to change requests? Uses the team's best practices and it gains new insights, which allow him to Sprint to Sprint to get better? Think about the team thoroughly before it adjusts agile practices sweeps or adds? Can it deal professionally with the consequences of such changes? If so, then the team is Ha in phase and needs a support to penetrate into the depths of the Agile method.
•	Has the team his agile practices constantly perfected and its compliance with the agile values and principles? Has the team the "valley of tears" crossed and brought faster product deliveries and improved customer satisfaction the company? Has the team the necessary maturity and attitude to monitor themselves and improve themselves? If that is the case, then the team has reached the R phase and they have to let it go its way.
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Home>Technology>Firm Says Phone Apps Spy on Hong Kong Protesters
Firm Says Phone Apps Spy on Hong Kong Protesters
Washington Informer Send an email October 2, 2014
Student pro-democracy activists use their smartphones while sitting on the streets near the government headquarters, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014 in Hong Kong. The Chinese government might be using smartphone apps to spy on pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, a U.S. security firm says. The applications are disguised as tools created by activists to protests, said the firm, Lacoon Mobile Security. The firm said that once downloaded, they give an outsider access to the phone's address book, call logs and other information. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E)
Student pro-democracy activists use their smartphones while sitting on the streets near the government headquarters, Thursday, Oct. 2, 2014 in Hong Kong. The Chinese government might be using smartphone apps to spy on pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, a U.S. security firm says. The applications are disguised as tools created by activists to protests, said the firm, Lacoon Mobile Security. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E)
HONG KONG (AP) — The Chinese government might be using smartphone apps to spy on pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, a U.S. security firm said.
The applications are disguised as tools created by activists, said the firm, Lacoon Mobile Security. It said that once downloaded, they give an outsider access to the phone's address book, call logs and other information.
The identities of victims and details of the servers used "lead us to believe that the Chinese government are behind the attack," said a Lacoon statement.
China is, along with the United States and Russia, regarded as a leader in cyber warfare research. Security experts say China is a leading source of hacking attacks aimed at foreign governments and companies to computers in China.
The Chinese government has denied engaging in cyberspying and says China is among the biggest victims of hacking attacks.
Lacoon said it found two similar "malicious, fake" apps that appeared to be related. One targets phones that run Apple Inc.'s iOS operating system; the other is meant for phones using Google Inc.'s Android system.
The "very advanced software," known as an mRAT, or multidimensional requirements analysis tool, "is undoubtedly being backed by a nation state," the company said. Lacoon said it was calling the software Xsser.
"The Xsser mRAT represents a fundamental shift by nation-state cybercriminals from compromising traditional PC systems to targeting mobile devices," the company said.
Such "cross-platform attacks" that target both Apple and Android phones are rare, which adds to signs a government is involved, Lacoon said. It said the app might be the first spyware for iOS created by a Chinese government entity.
In May, U.S. prosecutors charged five Chinese military officers with cyberspying and stealing trade secrets from major American companies. A security firm, Mandiant, said last year it traced attacks on American and other companies to a military unit in Shanghai.
Lacoon Mobile Security: www.lacoon.com
Hong Kong Hong Kong apps Hong Kong democracy Hong Kong protests Hong Kong spying
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Hong Kong Politician Likens Protesters to African-American Slaves
Fresh Clashes in Hong Kong as Pro-Democracy Activists Regroup
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Students come first at Lander College for Men.
All of our programs and offerings are designed with you in mind. We are committed to nurturing each student's individual growth and achievement while fostering an atmosphere of warmth, camaraderie, and belonging.
Our students hail from across the country and world, from California to Florida and up and down the east coast, to Canada, England, Belgium, Switzerland, South Africa, and Israel. They've studied in a myriad of yeshivas, from the Mir to Netiv Aryeh and everything in between.
More than twenty high schools across the continent are represented, among them, the finest yeshivas and mesivtas in the New York area, the Midwest, Pacific Northeast, and beyond.
Though they come from many different areas and circumstances, all of our students have a few things in common: exceptional academic performance, a strong commitment to learning in the Beis Medrash, and ambitious career goals. The average incoming student's combined SAT score is approximately 1200, rivaling that of students at top tier universities. Most of our students have one or more years of post-high school study in Israel, and many take advantage of our Israel Option to earn college credit while studying in Israel.
Wherever you come from, whatever your interests, the dedicated rebbeim, faculty, and staff at Lander College for Men will work to ensure that while you are here, you are home.


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Netherland's Regulated Online Gambling Market Launch Delayed by Six Months
in Regulatory Issues
Launch of Netherland's regulated virtual gambling market has been postponed by six months as the government requires more time to frame secondary gambling legislation. The launch has been delayed till July 1, 2021.
Netherlands Minister of Justice and Security, Sander Dekker, updated the lower house of parliament of the country about the delay in making modifications to the Remote Gambling Act (RGA). He said that due to these amendments, the RGA would come into effect on January 1, 2021, delay of six months from the proposed launch date. As the Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), will be following the RGA, it will start receiving applications for the online license only after the enactment of RGA. KSA made it clear that after receiving the applications, it would take another six months to scrutinize them, so the market launch cannot be expected before July 1, 2021.
Dekker spoke about how the amendments were being made to strengthen the existing regulations. He said the KSA will be checking the age-verification procedures of prospective online licensees from now on, as it has been found that at least until early 2018, underage clients could freely access the state-owned Nederlandse Loterij's Toto sports gambling product without any restriction. After this came to notice, steps have been taken to upgrade the age-verification system of Nederlandse Loterij. Dekker has warned all the future and existing online licensees to upgrade their systems to make it tough for the underaged to gamble online. If not done so, they would have to face stringent action, which might even lead to the cancellation of their license or rejection of their application for a license.
Sander Dekker was supportive of gambling advertising, as against the view of some legislators to completely ban it. However, he did say that existing advertorial rules will be modified to make sure that it did not have a negative impact on society.
https://www.timesofcasino.com/netherlands-regulated-online-gambling-market-launch-delayed-by-six-months/