text:
New imaging system distinguishes between real and fake fingerprints
Scientists from the Langevin Institute, Paris, have developed a new imaging system that can distinguish between real and fake fingerprints
Infrared imaging identifies skin to support face recognition
A research team at the Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences has developed a skin detection process based on infrared imaging to support biometric systems
How bats land upside down revealed with high-speed imaging
The ability of bats to land upside down has been shown to be due to their heavy wings, according to research conducted at Brown University using high-speed imaging
Thermal imaging reveals hot spots in Egypt's pyramids
A project to scan the pyramids in Egypt with thermal imaging has revealed thermal anomalies in Khufu's Pyramid, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza
Land Rover kits out mobile volcano observatory with imaging tech
Land Rover has turned a Defender 110 into the world's first mobile volcano observatory, able to reach and measure active volcanoes never studied before
New features revealed on Pluto's surface
Images transmitted from Nasa's New Horizons spacecraft have more than doubled the amount of Pluto's surface seen at resolutions as good as 400 metres per pixel
Lake Huron shipwrecks mapped with 3D imaging
Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the US are mapping shipwrecks in Lake Huron with 3D imaging
3D endoscope developed to aid brain surgery
An endoscope containing a tiny 3D camera has been developed that could help doctors perform safer brain surgery
Middle East heritage sites to be documented with 3D imaging
An effort to document heritage sites at risk from destruction in the Middle East using 3D imaging is underway
Tour de France bike aerodynamics fine-tuned with imaging technique
The bike and clothing used in the Tour de France by André Greipels has been designed using Particle Image Velocimetry - the same technique used in Formula 1


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News / Scottish News
Rapist footballer David Goodwillie returns to Clyde on loan from Raith Rovers
By Ross Crae
March 1, 2022, 3:12 pm Updated: March 1, 2022, 5:42 pm
David Goodwillie playing for Clyde (Andrew Cawley / DC Thomson)
David Goodwillie has signed for former club Clyde on loan from Raith Rovers.
The striker, who was branded a rapist by a civil court judge in 2017, will head back to the League One side with a view to a permanent deal at the end of the season.
Raith had signed the former Scotland star in the January window, but faced widespread backlash over the move and later said they would backtrack on their decision.
A statement on Clyde's website said: "Following an initial approach by Raith Rovers, and subsequent agreement between the two clubs, we can confirm that David Goodwillie has returned to Broadwood on loan until the end of the 2021-22 season.
"This enables David to return to first team activities including training and playing and, in doing so, continue his career in football at the current time."
The 32-year-old was the captain of Clyde and had spent five years there when Raith signed him.
The move was widely condemned and led to resignations from the club's board and anger and dismay among the fanbase.
The club can confirm that David Goodwillie has rejoined the club on loan from Raith Rovers until the end of the seasonhttps://t.co/DRvCszGpBI
— Clyde FC (@ClydeFC) March 1, 2022
Club sponsor and lifelong fan Val McDermid cut ties with Raith, as did the women's team.
Manager John McGlynn said after the club U-turned on the signing: "We apologise enormously for the distress that we've brought to our fans, our sponsors and anyone hurt. It was never our intention to do that.
"If we could turn the clock back, we'd do it in a minute. In time, we hope we can rectify the situation, build some bridges and get people back."
Goodwillie's return to Clyde has been criticised by the first minister.
Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: "For the record, I think this is as wrong as the signing by Raith Rovers. I strongly support rehabilitation but it must start with remorse. Someone who has shown none for the trauma he caused cannot be a sporting role model."
Disgusted doesn't even begin to touch it. All that mealy-mouthed stuff from the board about contract-ending negotiations? Do @RaithRovers think we'll all have forgotten about this by the end of the season? https://t.co/COrZUjJ32Y
— Val McDermid (@valmcdermid) March 1, 2022
Last month, Goodwillie's victim told The Sunday Post that his continuing career disgraces his sport and stains Scotland.
Denise Clair said the outcry over Raith signing him was justified but came many years too late.
She said the willingness of football clubs, the sport's authorities and politicians, with a few honourable exceptions, to turn a blind eye as Goodwillie continued to play senior football after a landmark civil action confirmed he raped her, has been appalling.
"Of course people should be outraged and scandalised that a man like that was about to play for Raith Rovers but he has never stopped playing," she said.
"He was picked for Clyde four days after judges rejected his appeal and confirmed he raped me. That was four years ago and that's when people should have been outraged and scandalised."
Club owner triggers fresh condemnation after claiming unrepentant rapist David Goodwillie deserves sympathy too
If you won't, let me: Victim of football rapists David Goodwillie and David Robertson asks Crown to allow a private prosecution
Exposed: Senior official said decision to drop the Goodwillie case left a "nasty smell"
Compelling evidence suggests Goodwillie rape victim was incapable of consent so why did a jury never hear it?
A shameful silence: The woman raped by footballer David Goodwillie on why Scotland's outrage is many years too late
A shameful decision: Victim still baffled why criminal case against David Goodwillie was dropped after prosecutors hailed evidence as strong
We also reported that Ms Clair had asked the Lord Advocate to allow a private prosecution.
She had written to Scotland's most senior law officer seeking permission to mount her own prosecution of the unrepentant player and his former teammate David Robertson.
Neither man was prosecuted by the Crown Office after the attack in January 2011 but a judge ruled them rapists after Ms Clair mounted a landmark civil action in 2017.
Robertson was never charged and the case against Goodwillie had been controversially dropped by prosecutors despite evidence suggesting Ms Clair was too drunk or drugged to give consent.
On this day in 2004: David Seaman retires from football
David Beckham's son Romeo joins Brentford B on loan from Inter Miami
The inspirationals: Some of Scotland's ground-breaking women choose their Women of the Year
Scottish Women's Football Awards: Ceremony celebrates spectacular season as game goes from strength to strength
David Goodwillie
Jeremy Hunt: No 'conceivable circumstances' in which HS2 stops short of Euston
Census reveals big changes in most common non-UK countries of birth
Hunt says he has never paid a tax penalty amid growing calls for Zahawi to go
Kyle Vassell vows to show Kilmarnock fans his best form

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Nodes are the nuts and bolts of your UML diagrams. Your development projects can be enhanced by using each node's symbol form to add rich texture. This table shows you the basic parts that can be combined in a variety of ways to research, analyze, design, and document your development in UML.


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Odaiba Memorial Day- 20 Years Later
Chapter Ten- Yolei
She still had a hidden talent for picking stocks. That was about all she had after all was said and done, so the woman formerly known as Yolei Izumi used it to her full advantage and made a career out of it. After the ill-fated marriage was over, Yolei had to scramble to live a productive life, having no serious income nor anyone to turn to. The stock thing was only a hobby on the outset, but since it provided the best chance at a serious job, Yolei started working for a brokerage, helping normal everyday people invest their money wisely and ensuring financial security across the country.
"Sunagawa Stock Brokers, ensuring tomorrow's happiness today. My name is Yolei, how may I help you?" As a company tagline, Yolei said it day in and day out. It was starting to get to her. It seemed like she was doing the exact opposite for as long as she could remember. She was sacrificing tomorrow's happiness for today's. She continued giving advice to this particular client. She definitely had a knack for the job, a sixth sense as to what was going up and what was going down. In the office, she was regarded very highly, and her employer showed its gratitude towards its gifted employee. But unfortunately, it didn't matter how many times she was Employee of the Month, or how many success stories she had, or how many times she convinced herself that she was helping other people secure themselves financially, and how noble and worthy her position was- she was still just another suit in a cubicle.
Yolei would often wonder what happened to get her where she was. How her life had undergone dramatic change after dramatic change after getting out of high school. She never would have predicted she would end up here. In high school, she had absolutely no interest in the business world, and had no intention of working for a stock broker. But yet, as much as she was surprised at the direction her life had taken (or rather, the constant change in direction), what was most surprising was the truth of why it was this way:
In the end, the person most responsible for this… is me.
Of course, this was nothing new to Yolei. It had been on her mind ever since the divorce was finalized. At times, it was the only thing that kept her going. After all, it's easier to understand a situation when you give yourself control of it. If you are the one pushing the buttons in your life, it's easier to come to terms with whatever the buttons happen to do. On the other hand, considering the things she'd been through- being responsible for them all was just plain depressing sometimes. But either way, since it was always on her head, it didn't bother her when she was working. She continued with the client, giving them the options, recommending the best one. Of course, after completing the deal, and having the client go with the best option, she hung up the phone and sighed audibly.
"Another buyer into IE, huh Yolei?" Naoko was her chirpy self as Yolei nodded. Despite the background story behind the company, buying into Izumi Enterprises happened to be in the best interests for this client. Yolei had to be objective, she had to say everything with a straight face… at least on the phone. Fortunately, with Naoko around, Yolei was free to bitch about it all she wanted.
"And the sad thing is that it just makes his company stronger."
"Let's see, is it bitterness or jealousy? I can't tell."
"I don't know what it is anymore. It's a mess. But it is a good stock right now."
"Yeah, that brief slump a few weeks ago really made it affordable for traders."
"Yeah… don't tell Izzy but I bought a few shares myself." Again, she had to be objective. It was a hot stock, and Yolei put a few shares in her portfolio for various reasons. It was a safe money-maker, but it also was symbolic in a way- that despite her past, she can still succeed with her future. No, Yolei wasn't happy with her life, but she wasn't moping 24-7 about it either. She still felt the drive to go on with her life, hoping that one day she would find happiness again.
The fateful invitation was in the mail, and Yolei was quite happy to receive it. She responded immediately, happy for another reunion with her old friends. Yes, she understood the likelihood of Izzy or Ken being there. She was more than willing to deal with whatever discomfort was waiting for her; she wasn't about to pass up a digi-destined reunion in order to avoid her two former suitors.
Of course, no matter how much she refused to let the idea of seeing Izzy or Ken again get to her, it was still the dominant thing on her mind. If anything, her determination not to let Izzy or Ken get in the way of the reunion made her worry more. To Yolei, it was an inevitability- she was going to see them again. That much was certain. The deal was done, the papers were signed, and the decision was final. She wasn't about to back out of this- despite the fact that she was scared to death about what was going to happen.
Was it all really my fault? Or did Izzy push me away?
She could almost sense the moment forecasting the end. The phone call to Steve Carrier. Yolei just played the part of a pleasant, supportive wife, but deep down she could tell that Izzy was changing. It was very gradual at first. The business slowly became more important to him. It didn't disturb Yolei much. After all, it was Izzy's sweat that formed the company, and it was the company that formed Izzy and Yolei's wealth. So Yolei put up with Izzy when he seemed to care more about the business than her. Because he was always able to make up for it. Okay, the expensive presents and other possessions might have been a bit shallow at times, but Yolei forgave him for that. Izzy was never the most romantic person in the world, but she could tell when he was trying. She could tell when he cared. And he did care for the majority of the marriage. For every late night at the office, Izzy made up for it somehow.
It started out very gradual. It wasn't that he stopped caring, but rather that the number of late nights that Izzy would have to make up for increased. But he did make up for them. Most of the time. In the months preceding "the call," he was starting to slack off a bit. But again, it wasn't significant. But then it happened. The look on his face when he agreed with Carrier, when he argued with Carrier, and ultimately when he was forced to reject Carrier said it all- Izzy was married to his work. Yolei was second to Izumi Enterprises. And no matter how many times he made up for it, it would continue to be that way. And no matter how many times she would play the part of wife, or even best friend, his mind would be primarily concentrated on the company. That was clear from the tennis match later that day- the score meant nothing to Izzy. He was pretending that the ball was Steve Carrier.
And so the number of late nights increased even more. Izzy had two goals- bring Pineapple Computers down and put his company in a position to take it over. Never before had Yolei seen Izzy so focused on something like he was here. And despite the high quantity of late nights, Izzy stopped making up for them. He pretty much stopped giving Yolei any extra attention. She was just another person living under the same roof, with a completely separate life that didn't concern him in the least. Yolei was frustrated to no end with this. Izzy never even got mad at Yolei; she frequently considered provoking him on purpose to see if he would react. But she didn't. She wasn't sure what to do about this. But she wasn't feeling any love from Izzy, and as a result, she had to take action.
As much as she'd like to say it, the affair with Megane didn't just happen out of the blue. His wife was one of Yolei's old friends from high school, and about a month before the fateful call from Steve Carrier, Yolei received her own call from this friend. She was in town and paid Yolei a visit.
"Hey, Ruriko, long time no see!" It had been a while since the two had been together, and both were happy to reunite.
"Yeah. Where's Izzy?"
"Oh, he's working late. Why?"
"No big deal. Although it would have been nice to keep Megane occupied."
"Not a problem, I'm sure I can behave myself here." Megane stepped in the door, behind Ruriko. He looked decent enough. The pitch-black hair, cheeky smile, and slim glasses instantly stood out, and his pleasant greeting made an above-average first impression with Yolei.
"Hello there. Always nice to meet an old friend of Ruriko's. I might be able to figure her out one of these days." Yolei chuckled a bit.
"Good luck, I've known her for years, and still can't!" Yolei joked, while looking Megane in the eyes. He had a very strange look, as if looking over Yolei, searching for something. It made Yolei feel a tad uncomfortable, but she ignored it, and returned her attention to Ruriko. She was the focus of this visit, and Megane would have to settle for being a third wheel.
But despite the attention Yolei paid Ruriko, Megane always tried to steal it away. Asking questions about the house, wondering about little details. Yolei wasn't afraid to answer, and continued to be a gracious host. Aside from that, Megane wasn't anything out of the ordinary, and Yolei had no reason to believe that he did anything to provoke Ruriko in any way. But all it took was one question, after thirty minutes of touring the house, and making little chit-chat.
"So how long have you and Izz been married?" It seemed innocent. Yolei was about to answer, having nothing to hide, when Ruriko made her presence felt and angrily slammed a hand on a nearby table.
"Okay, that's it, we are leaving now. I've had enough of this Megane, I am getting in the car and going home. And I'd recommend that you best come with me!" Ruriko marched towards the door, leaving a very confused Yolei, and a very calm Megane. Megane turned to Yolei.
"You, uh… don't want to know. She just gets like this sometimes. I don't know what it is. Anyway, it was a pleasure meeting you, Yolei. I'll talk to you later, okay?" Megane shook Yolei's hand, and started to follow.
"Um… okay. Bye!" Yolei wasn't any less confused, but it was just another strange day in her life that she dismissed as completely insignificant.
But about seven months later, Megane reappeared in Yolei's life. Izzy, or Koushiro as he preferred to be called, was busy with his Pineapple-smashing obsession, and Yolei was starting to feel the effects of it. She happened to run into Megane at the food court at a mall.
"Hey. Yolei! Remember me?"
"Um… let me see. Oh, aren't you Ruriko's husband? Megane I think?"
"Well- ex-husband. Have a seat, there's plenty of room." Yolei wasn't quite sure what his intentions were, but not wanting to sit alone, accepted the offer.
"Um. Thanks. So what happened between you and Ruriko?"
"Aw, I don't know. She just gets upset at the little things. I don't know what her problem was, but she just walked out. Oh well, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't."
"Uh huh…" Yolei certainly didn't want to delve into the topic of marriage problems, but Megane seemed to be focused on nothing but.
"So how are you doing? Izz still bringing home the big bucks?"
"I guess so." Yolei didn't sound too enthused. Megane must have picked up on that… and delved further.
"Something wrong?" His voice was suddenly concerned.
"Hm? Oh… it's nothing."
"Doesn't sound like nothing. If there's a problem, you should tell somebody about it."
"Like who?" It just slipped out. A tiny gap in the defense, but enough for Megane to slip through.
"Hey, I'm not doing anything. After the hell I went through because of Ruriko, nothing surprises me. Besides, I won't tell anybody."
Slowly but surely, Yolei opened up to Megane. She went on about how Izzy seemed to be ignoring her, and how she thought he cared more about Steve Carrier's demise than about her. And Megane seemed supportive. He seemed to care. He paid attention to Yolei. He sided with her completely, and it wasn't long before he snuck into her life. The attention Megane paid to Yolei was just what she needed. And his caring attitude was enough for Yolei to let her guard down. Before long, the affair was in full swing.
Looking back on it, Yolei couldn't believe how stupid she was. She was dancing in the palm of his hand. She gave him all the tools necessary to woo her, and he used them to his fullest extent. Megane gave her all the things that Izzy wasn't giving, and Yolei couldn't help but fall for it. Yolei covered it all up, but given Izzy's ignorance, it wasn't a difficult task. But things just got worse and worse over time, and when Izzy finally did discover the truth about the affair, it was too late. Yolei was finished with Izzy, her patience completely extinguished. It was over.
So whose fault was it? Yolei certainly couldn't believe that she was forced into the situation with Megane (which didn't last long after Izzy walked in on them); that Izzy drove Yolei away and forced her to seek solace with Megane. But on the other hand, Yolei didn't want to accept full responsibility for this herself. To do so would make her seem weak, and susceptible to anyone of Megane's type. And she wasn't. She was caught in a trap, and felt like Megane was the only one who could help her.
Talk about the cure being worse than the disease…
So was Yolei happier without Izzy? Well no, she wasn't. The happier days of the marriage to Yolei were by far the best moments in her life. And even when Izzy was ignoring her, it was still better than being alone. Wasn't it?
I'm alone now, and I'm not miserable. At least I'm not when I'm not thinking about the direction my life has been taking.
With a past as marred as Yolei's, it's hard to ignore. There was absolutely no way she could put it behind her completely. But later that evening, Yolei took another look at that invitation. With the initial excitement of receiving it behind her, she was able to look at it with fresh eyes. It was indeed hard to ignore the past, and if the past was any indicator- this reunion may not be such a good idea after all…
Yolei tried to smile. She really did. She had to smile- even if Kari was the center of attention, an unhappy bridesmaid doesn't make for good photos. But deep down, she really didn't feel like smiling. With the 2KI breakup still lingering on, Yolei was at her wit's end. Izzy was consoling her, him being the gallant knight that he was (boy, nine years is a long time). Despite the grief she felt about the whole thing, she finally gathered up enough courage to attend the wedding. She had to, for Kari's sake.
Fortunately, she only had to smile when photos were taken of her. While TK and Kari were up taking the vows, she could relax for a bit. Well, not really, she felt very uncomfortable standing next to the strange unknown woman that was acting as another bridesmaid in Sora's absence.
That was another thing that troubled for Yolei as she looked at all the guests observing this huge moment- there were twelve digi-destined in the area, yet except for TK and Kari (who were pretty much required to attend), only five were present. Five out of ten- fifty percent. A group that united to save the world- and only half of them bother to attend the unification of two of their own. Yolei knew that Izzy and Ken weren't going to be there; they were tied down in legalese and character defamation. But three more weren't present. Davis, Sora, and Joe. Yolei heard from someone that Joe's flight got cancelled. Understandable, perhaps, but Yolei couldn't imagine that "ol' reliable" wouldn't figure out some way to get there anyway. Then there was Sora. Supposedly she was sick…
Absolutely laughable. I refuse to believe that a little illness would keep the holder of the Crest of Love away from a wedding between two of her friends.
And Davis. All that "crush on Kari" stuff was besides the point: Davis was there for his friends when they needed him. It didn't matter how infatuated Davis could have been (and with him moving away, Yolei reasoned that it couldn't have been much), he would still put aside his feelings and be the first in line to congratulate the happy couple. That was a fact. Unfortunately, Davis's absence was also a fact. As unexplainable as it was, and as unforgivable as it was- he wasn't there.
Not that the people who were there were enjoying it. Yolei herself was dealing with the whole 2KI breakup and wasn't in the greatest of moods. But she wasn't alone. While the minister was going through the vows, all that "love him, honor him, keep him" stuff, Yolei couldn't help but watch Tai, who seemed particularly on edge about the whole thing. She knew Tai was all for the wedding, so it wasn't any sign of regret. But he looked miserable. He looked uncomfortable. He looked like he didn't want to be there, but was obligated to attend. And again, Yolei had no answers.
Never one to want to be left in the dark, she tried to get a few answers at the reception. First up for the interrogation- Matt and Mimi. They had apparently "hooked up," which had surprised Yolei as much as anybody, considering they barely spoke to each other at the tenth anniversary reunion.
"Hey, you two…" Matt and Mimi turned to Yolei and smiled.
"Hi Yolei, what's up?" At least Mimi sounded pleasant.
"Not much. Interesting to see you two together." Mimi shook her head and put an arm around Matt's shoulder.
"Well, you never know, these things just happen."
"Yeah. I never picked you two as a couple… although you do look pretty good together."
"Yeah… we're very photogenic." Matt said with a smirk.
"Matt, do you even know what photogenic means?" Mimi was still smiling, making small talk.
"No, but Ray says it a lot." Mimi started laughing as Matt returned his attention to Yolei, "So how are things with Ken and Izzy?"
"Don't ask." Yolei immediately changed the subject, "Say, is it me, or did Tai look really edgy back there?"
"I didn't notice anything." Mimi obviously hadn't noticed, but Matt looked across the room at Tai for a second, then smiled, nodding.
"Yeah… yeah… I know what it is." Matt seemed confident, "His baby sister's getting married before him. I kinda feel the same way with TK, you know? Although really, I don't really give a damn. I am in no rush to get married." Yolei glanced over at Mimi, who nodded and smiled at the statement.
Funny… that's not how I would expect Mimi to react to that.
"I suppose… but what about Joe? He's not here. Neither are Davis or Sora."
"I heard that Joe's flight was cancelled. I don't know about Davis or Sora." Mimi was also puzzled. Apparently, she had gotten all the answers she could from them. Time to move on to a new prey.
Target sighted- Tai Kamiya at two o'clock. I am locked on and approaching!
Tai seemed to have gotten over his angst over his "baby sister getting married" and was trying to enjoy himself at the reception.
"Hi Tai, nice seeing you." Tai flashed a smile at Yolei.
"Yeah. Where's Izzy and Ken? I'm surprised they aren't here."
"Never mind…" Again, changing the subject, "You seemed a bit edgy at the ceremony. What's wrong?" She understood Matt's logic, but wanted to get Tai's side of the story. Tai was visibly hesitant and didn't want to answer. Yolei nodded. He apparently didn't want to admit the problem.
"Uh… well…"
"Never mind. I think I know what it is." Tai looked at Yolei, completely shocked.
"You do?" Tai was completely serious. Yolei shrugged it off.
"Yeah, it happens all the time."
"Well maybe, but…"
"Hey, Matt said he's going through the same thing."
"Matt!? When did…"
"I already talked to him about it. It's nothing unusual."
"It isn't?" Tai was really surprised that Yolei was treating the issue so lightly.
"No… you know when my brother got married, my other brother, the oldest one… he did the same thing."
"You've got to be kidding me!" Tai seemed about ready to explode. He turned his head and muttered "Weird family." Yolei shrugged it off.
"Anyway, there's nothing wrong with that."
"There isn't?!"
"No- it's all a part of sibling rivalry. Believe me, I know." Tai was completely in disbelief… then turned to Yolei.
"Sibling rivalry?" He seemed confused.
"Yeah. That's what this is right? You feel bad because Kari's getting married before you."
"Oh… yeah. Hit the nail on the head." Tai averted his eyes quickly. Yolei smiled and put a hand on his shoulder.
"Hey, don't worry about it. You'll find somebody in no time."
"Thanks… I don't think that'll be a problem either." Yolei released her hand and got back to business.
"Anyway… do you know where Sora is?" Tai looked at Yolei. The look on his eyes suggested that he was fearing for his life.
"Sora… Sora who?" Tai squeaked.
"Takenouchi… wait… actually it's not anymore. She got married didn't she?" Yolei paced around, "What was Tareshi's last name? Oh man, that's embarrassing. Do you know Sora's last name?" Tai looked around nervously.
"Nope!"
"Oh well, it doesn't matter. Do you know why she isn't here?"
"Don't know, don't care!" Tai shrugged his shoulders, then glanced over to the food table, "Oh look, pork buns! I'm starving!" Tai walked away, leaving a very puzzled Yolei.
Why can't he just cry at weddings like normal people?
Yolei felt the need for one more interrogation. The happy couple themselves. After the initial obligatory congratulatory remarks, Yolei got down to business.
"So anyway, have you noticed that Davis is here?" Kari looked down and shook her head, frowning. As TK comforted his wife, he turned to Yolei.
"We didn't even get a reply from him. I mean Sora called in sick, Joe's flight was cancelled, and you said Izzy and Ken had something to do in court."
"What's that about anyway?" Kari asked Yolei.
"Oh. It's nothing." Yolei, who hath denied three times, changed the subject yet again, "Don't you think it's a bit odd for Sora and Joe to miss your wedding like this? I can't imagine an illness or a missed flight would cause those two give this up. Hell, Sora's the kind of person that would show up even if she was dying. Something doesn't add up." It seemed that Yolei had struck a nerve, as both Kari and TK were frowning.
"You're right. I think something's wrong too. I'm a bit disappointed by the number of people who are here, especially among us digi-destined." Kari was obviously worried about the situation as well.
"I don't know what's going on either, but I don't really want to worry about it right now. I'd rather just enjoy today for what it is. It's supposed to be a happy day… I don't want to let this ruin everything. We'll worry about it later. I hope you understand." TK smiled at Yolei.
"I understand completely." And Yolei did. She was going through problems herself, and she too was trying to ignore them for the sake of the moment.
Yolei stared at the list of names that was included in the letter. Mimi Tachikawa, who was so happy with Matt Ishida at the wedding, married Joe Kido, who wasn't even there. Davis Motomiya and Sora Takoto, who were also absent. Tai Kamiya, who despite being physically present, didn't quite seem "all there" either. Kari and TK Takaishi- Yolei didn't know what was going on in their lives. And herself, Yolei Inoue, divorced from Koushiro Izumi.
Cody Hida, what are you getting yourself into?
Then she looked at the last name on the list. And that was the unkindest cut of all.
Ken Ichijouji.
If there was one incident Yolei wanted to forget, the messy breakup with Ken was it. But she couldn't. Ken just seemed to explode that day, going off on anybody about the situation. Yolei didn't help the situation much, but Ken had no excuse for his actions that day. He was a monster, and even if Yolei shouldn't have said it to his face, he did seem to be in Digimon Emperor mode. When Yolei thought about it, she couldn't stand the thought of having to deal with him again. A person who walked out of her life without a chance to hear her side of the story.
Although… he wouldn't get that worked up about it if it was something small. This is the same Ken Ichijouji that she dated for years, the same one she loved throughout high school. He had so many positive sides, yet how could he be such a monster at the same time? It wasn't possible. Yolei began to think that Ken might not be the sole person at fault for the breakup, despite what Izzy said to her before. Come to think of it, it was said by the same Izzy that later got revenge on a heartless bastard by becoming one himself.
Okay, she knew that she shouldn't have kissed Izzy. That was pretty clear. And the stuff she said to Ken was wrong as well. But for the longest time, Yolei believed that she was at fault for only those two things, and that the issue was that Ken was unforgiving and heartless, and simply walked out without giving her a second chance. But again- it didn't add up.
Ken is not unforgiving. Considering what he's done in the past, to be unforgiving would be to simply be a hypocrite. I was there first hand to witness Ken become more forgiving of himself… he's definitely not unforgiving. And heartless? My high school years with him would definitely say otherwise. So what does this mean? That perhaps I'm more at fault than I'm willing to accept?
Either way, it was something that ended far too abruptly than it should have. No matter whose fault it was, Ken walking out the door should not have been the final matter of the issue. Even if Ken didn't, the least Yolei could have done is talk to him again. Instead, she let almost ten years pass… and the feelings have built up and solidified over time. But still…
Somehow, she never forgot the phone number. She did call him quite often, and it was permanently affixed in her memory. This was it- she could finally get rid of all the guilt. The beginning of Yolei's rebirth began once she squared things away with Ken. She couldn't wait for the reunion, this was something that had to be done now. Before the other ten could get in the way. This was Yolei's chance to save face, and perhaps even restore a friendship.
But it wasn't to be. Before she could dial, the phone rang.
"Hello, who is it?"
"Hi Yolei, it's me Naoko. Look, my mother just called me and said that my dad was in some sort of accident. He lives in Osaka and I want to go up there for a couple days to see how he's doing. The problem is I need somebody to take care of my cat. I was wondering if you could stop by a couple times while I'm gone?"
"Oh, uh… sure. No problem."
"Great. Could you drop by as soon as you possibly can so I can give you a key and some of the details. I have a bus to catch, so the quicker the better." Yolei looked over at the table. At the invitation. Ken would have to wait.
"Sure. I'll be right over."
"Thanks Yolei, you're the greatest. Bye!" Yolei hung up, grabbed her purse, and headed out. For some reason, Naoko's words still echoed in Yolei's head. "You're the greatest." Naoko wasn't the greatest friend Yolei had ever had; this favor was just helping out someone in need. But at the same time, Yolei felt uplifted.
As disastrous as her past was, as much as she wanted to forget the bad things, she was still hanging on. She was still active, still surviving- still going. She wasn't in the company of anybody special. There was no significant other. To put it bluntly, even Izzy showed more love towards Yolei in the final months of their marriage than she was receiving now. No Ken, no Izzy, not even a Megane was in Yolei's life. And she was still making it. She had no doubt that she would be happier if she had somebody to love her, but even without- she would survive.
The reunion has the potential to be very messy. It could be a complete disaster. But at the same time, I'll get through it somehow. As long as I'm not completely alone, even if it's only a small friendship with somebody like Naoko, I'll get through it. I'm just going to have to brace myself, be ready for anything, and hang on tight- because no matter how many ups, downs, twists, and turns are on the roller coaster of life, as long as I have some sort of safety harness, I'll get through it.
Author's Notes
Right now, I'd like to give a few glimpses as to how I actually write this piece (as well as most of my other works). I started out with a brief, paragraph-long summary of each chapter, and basic stuff I wanted to happen. In the case of most of the chapters, I have a few other things in mind (like particular scenes or points to make) that I keep in my head to use when I write it. Although a few chapters have a lot of previous thought given to it (Tai's chapter is a good example), a lot of it is thought up as I write the chapter, with future chapters in mind. Believe it or not, my little summary sheet gives absolutely no mention of Mitsune Bekomi or Tai's friend Kintaro, both of them were invented on the spot (heck, my summary sheet still has Kari in chapter five!). But I gotta say that this is the first chapter that was pretty much entirely written on the fly. Naoko, Ruriko, Megane- all just popped in. But now that it's over, I will integrate the spontaneous elements of this chapter into the events of the reunion, just like I will with Mitsune, and all the stuff I have planned.
Yep, more anime references, even though I was just fishing for names in this case. Ruriko and Megane are two characters from the anime Gatekeepers. Megane's actually a little wiener in the anime, while Ruriko is the lead female. The two are nowhere close to being a couple; the Digi-equivalent of the pairing would be something like Jyoura, but neither of the two are very significant characters here (neither will appear again, and only Megane will be referred to), so who cares? Again, like I said in a previous author's notes, Gatekeepers is a great anime for those feeling a bit disenfranchised with Digimon's romantic pairings (or lack thereof) and ending. If you want to see a bunch of kids save the world from evil in a parallel dimension, and deal heavily with romantic tension at the same time, Gatekeepers is one for you.
On the same note, I forgot where I heard the name Naoko. I don't care, I just wanted a good name.
Okay, we got to see their wedding, so how are the Takaishi's doing now anyways?
Chapter Eleven- TK
TK knew Davis had a problem. And TK also knew that his wife loved him very much. But despite this, it's hard to feel sympathy for Davis when you're going through worse. The loss of a job, nearly losing Kari, and the struggles that he had to deal with for nine years were a far bigger concern to TK. But with Davis's problem drawing sympathy from both the woman TK loves and the woman TK hates, things could get worse before they get better.


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Legal & General commits to halving GBP81 billion annuity portfolio's carbon emissions by 2030
Sponsored by IHS Markit
Legal & General Retirement (LGR) today announces its commitment to reduce the carbon emission intensity1 of its current GBP80.7 billion annuity book by 18.5 per cent by 2025, and by 50 per cent by 2030.
Legal & General is also targeting a net-zero portfolio by 2050 and strongly supports the Paris Agreement aim to limit the global temperature rise to well below 2°C of pre-industrial levels.
These commitments come as LGR launches its new Environmental, Social Impact and Governance (ESG) policy, the Pension Risk Transfer (PRT) sector's most comprehensive publicly available document outlining a provider's approach to ESG. The policy outlines how LGR will continue to ensure the security of policyholders' benefits in its GBP80.7 billion annuity book through investments that have a positive impact across the UK.
The Government has highlighted the importance of tackling climate change with the Prime Minister's Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, and has outlined aims for pension schemes to report on the effects of climate change as a financial risk in the Pension Schemes Bill. LGR's policy is aligned with this thinking and sets out the progress that Legal & General's Retail and Institutional Retirement divisions have made towards integrating ESG principles into LGR's annuity portfolio.
The policy covers, in detail, what action LGR is taking for each key area:
• Environmental – Focusing on portfolio decarbonisation and influencing the transition to a low-carbon economy.
• Social impact – Making sustainable investments in projects that generate positive societal impacts and deliver long term benefits, as well as driving local and global economic growth.
• Governance - Measuring and managing financial related risks including ESG to make society more resilient.
The approach aligns with the investment policies developed by Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM), a leader in ESG, which manages the assets in LGR's annuity portfolio. Through LGIM, Legal & General also advocates and encourages the uptake of ESG principles by the companies in which it invests, and across the wider financial services industry.
Laura Mason, Chief Executive Officer, Legal & General Retirement Institutional, says: "Legal & General are committed to investing where we can deliver a social good and achieve our ambition of driving "inclusive capitalism", while delivering the returns that secure our pension policyholders benefits. This document, for the first time, captures our ESG policies in one place for our customers and investors, detailing the key principles that drive our corporate strategy and shape our culture.
"Climate change is a serious threat, and we recognise that our scale brings a responsibility to take action. I am proud of the ambitious targets we have set – including to halve the carbon emission intensity of our GBP81 billion annuity book over the next 10 years – and am committed to putting this aim at the forefront of our decision-making.
"The insurance sector has an important role to play in using pension money to invest in sustainable projects across the UK, and I hope that our new policy document will highlight how we and others can play our part in tackling climate change."
'IQ-EQ Compass' launches to identify and mitigate ESG-related risks
DWS pushes IFRS to introduce a coherent ESG reporting standard based on double materiality
Leading investors join international taskforce to curb climate change
FE fundinfo enhances ESG offering with CSSP acquisition


We prepared a plan for a 3,500 acre rural estate with three settlements set in the landscape of Leicestershire. The 20 year development and management strategy looked at the opportunities and constraints to try to provide a realistic, balanced approach to future rural development. Our aim was to retain and enhance the local character and heritage assets and improve access and recreational potential, whilst regenerating the estate's depleting financial base.
The strategy was consulted upon with key stakeholders including the County Council, District Council, farm tenants and the local communities. Whilst there was some support for this new idea, the benefits of a significant improvement to a large area of degraded Midlands landscape was considered by the local planning authority to be outweighed by the rigid policy of limiting development in the countryside.


text:
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The Need to Belong: More Outsiders in Outlander
December 10, 2016 Blake	Blogs 0 Comments
Written by: Jayne Coleman
Outsiders don't fit in. That is their key characteristic. They fly solo through life. As humans, we conform to the expectations of the group(s) we belong to as this makes it easier to fit in and be accepted. But not everyone does so successfully. Like a dark thread in the weft of a plaid, outsiders pick their way through life – sometimes part of the pattern and sometimes not, but always distinguishable.
As a follow up to my first post about "Outsiders in Outlander," it's time to take a closer look at some of those dark threads and how they bring character, conflict and interest into the Outlander series. And since we're talking about dark threads, I mine as well start with the darkest thread of all – Black Jack Randall, the key villain of Outlander and Dragonfly In Amber…
Jonathan Wolverton Randall – aka Black Jack Randall
Oh how we all love to hate Black Jack. So what is his story? How did he end up a sociopathic sadist?
We have only minor clues to guide us. He may not have ended up like this if his life had been different given the way we see his love and devotion for his brother, Alex. Then again, he may have anyway if he suffered from an underlying personality disorder. We don't know if he tortured pets as a child, was abused at boarding school or in the army or any number of "red flag" behaviors that typically befall sociopaths. Maybe he contracted syphilis and had to suffer it destroying his brain. The point is, we just don't know. We don't know what the triggers were, but we do know that he ends up a man who delights not only in the physical torture others, but also in the psychological torture. These are not the actions and reactions of a completely sane man.
Breaking his victim's spirits gives Jack a high. What I find most disturbing about Black Jack is the intelligence he wields in his persecution of his victims. He is no mindless brute. He is completely aware of what he does, and plans and implements his tortures specifically for the victim under his hands. He understands the deepest fears of his victims and exploits them for his own pleasure. There is a cold deliberation that is absolutely chilling. He reminds me of Hitler's propaganda minister, Dr Goebbels, and the way he went about the destruction of Jews in Europe. There is a similar complete lack of empathy for suffering or humanity allied to intelligence and insight.
His ability to play the insider enables him to get away with his crimes, but Black Jack is – at heart – a perpetual outsider. He knows how to find powerful patrons and friends who will shield him from the consequences of his actions. He makes sure he stays useful because then those in his circle allow him to continue his activities as long as they can remain secret. He employs charm to hide the monster inside. Tobias Menzies captures this duality and inhabits the dark and twisted soul of Black Jack to perfection. We are attracted while we are repelled, much like a cobra and a mouse.
Franklin Wolverton Randall – aka Frank
Black Jack's great xxxxx nephew, Frank, is also his alter ego. He is the man Jonathan could have become – suave, sophisticated and erudite. He is also a complex man who loves Claire and Bree, no matter what. So how is Frank an outsider?
It starts with his time during the World War II, serving with the 'funny buggers.' Anyone who serves in the Secret Services (known in the 18th century as Black Chambers) lives a hidden life that separates them from day to day life. He was responsible for sending men and women to their deaths and it weighs on him. Because so much of his work was top secret, he could not talk about it to anyone. He's also an English gentleman of an era where men did not talk about nor show their emotions. Bottled up, reserved and intense, his only release is sex… and this is mostly denied to him by circumstances. He and Claire married in 1939 and almost immediately separated. They had only just reunited and were trying to find their way back to one another on their second honeymoon in Scotland when Claire disappears for another three years. There is no doubt that, for him, Claire is the love of his life but he has her for such a short time, mere months within the years.
Her disappearance is traumatic. When someone disappears with no explanation, the one left behind has to grapple with endless questions and uncertainty. Unlike death, there is no closure because hope always lingers that the one lost will be found or reappear. The Inverness police are sure that Claire has run off with another man, and Frank has to consider that such a betrayal is a real possibility. Then there is suicide – unlikely, but still a realistic probability that must be contemplated as does the idea that Claire might have been abducted against her will. Despite all of these plausible scenarios to explain her vanishing, he continues to believe that Claire loves him and would not have abandoned him by choice. He spends months using every source at his disposal to try and find Claire, all to no avail. In the end, he has to try and move on with his life.
Just as he manages to do this, Claire miraculously returns. However, it's a poisoned miracle for Frank considering she comes back pregnant with another man's child, obviously grieving his loss. The medical staff are convinced she is delusional and in shock. Their considered opinion after listening to her story of stones, the 1740s and Culloden is that she is not completely sane. So Frank has to deal with a crazy, pregnant wife returned from the dead who rejects him and is quite blunt that she no longer loves him. Tobias Menzies once again gave a superb performance in episode one of season 2. I certainly cried for both of them.
I believe one must have sympathy for Frank's predicament and feelings. He lives outside the blessed circle of Claire's love. He chooses to make do and accept he is second best – not an easy thing for a man of pride and honour – but he is willing to do so, motivated by love and honour in equal parts. The long-term stress this puts him under eventually causes the erosion of his love and devotion for Claire – something we will, undoubtedly, have an opportunity to see in season 3.
Murtagh FitzGibbons Fraser
Dour, hard-to-win-over, cautious Murtagh is Jamie's godfather and protector. By nature a loner, he is deeply loyal to those he loves, few though they may be. Murtagh is a man of few words but quick to action when required, especially if decisive action is required in the face of imminent danger. #EverybodyNeedsAMurtagh has become an Outlander fan cry – we would ALL love to have a guardian like him.
I have always found it interesting that we know very little of Murtagh and his past. He reminds me of an early Pictish warrior – it's as if he comes from an older time with links to ancient ways. He is, essentially, solitary and introverted. Uprooted from his native soil, he is deeply uncomfortable in France and fails to thrive. He will survive, though – he's too tough and ornery not too. But if anyone was happy when they landed back in Scotland, it was definitely Murtagh. He needs the bracing Scottish weather and stony mountains to come into his own again. Training the troops is archetypal Murtagh – the original Sergeant Major who terrifies all the rookies into submission and is able to get them to march in line and in time.
So too, is his promise to Jamie – 'I'll see the men safe on their way to Lallybroch but I will be waiting when you come back.' There is no way Murtagh would allow Jamie to go into the toughest battle of
his life without being at his side. He will pay whatever cost is required without question. His loyalty is stronger than steel, his honour absolute, his determination adamant.
Bonnie Prince Charlie – Prince Tearlach
Mark me Obsessanachs, the Bonnie Prince has to be the character who most irritated fans. His story is, however, tragic in many ways. Born in exile and died in exile, he was never able to reach the destiny he believed he was born to fulfil. A young man of great charm and promise, Prince Charles failed – in large part because he was an outsider. He failed to understand Scotland, the Chiefs, the Clans. He failed to understand England, the English and the common people. Instead he imbibed a faulty mythology of both Scotland and England, which bore little resemblance to reality.
His great potential died on Culloden Moor, just as the Clan system did. It became the inevitable climax of his mission to claim Scotland, England and Wales for the Stuarts. Charles believed that the people of Britain would welcome him – the rightful heir to the throne with open arms – take up arms and help him to overthrow the usurper Hanoverians. He did not understand that the Scottish Chiefs and their followers were not interested in winning England. He failed to understand that the common English people enjoyed a level of prosperity, religious and political freedom under King George that was never experienced under the Stuarts.
This failure led to a widening gulf between himself and his principal supporters. As the gulf widened, he clung more and more to his old Irish supporters who had raised him in Italy. He playacted at being Scottish, wearing silk tartan with gold lace, instead of good Scottish wool. The goodwill he had engendered through his actions at the start of the campaign eroded as the Highlanders reluctantly followed him into England. It bled away as they marched to and fro, barefoot, in rags and starving into a bitter winter. Those who had sacrificed the most – and had the most to lose in the event of the Rising failing – were spurned leading to bitterness and animosity.
When he finally rode roughshod over the advice of the Clan Chieftains and insisted on fighting on Drumossie Moor, he finally killed any spark of enthusiasm in all but the most dedicated of his followers. The men who went to fight at Culloden were exhausted, famished and heartsick. They knew, as the Bonnie Prince did not, that most of their bodies would lie on that moor at the end of the battle. Despite this, they picked up their weapons, such as they were, and made the last Highland charge on Scottish soil.
That loss marked the end of the Scottish Clan system, the destruction of the Clans themselves and the deaths of innumerable of those Prince Charles had claimed as his own people a few short months before.
Tearlach's Year had ended in blood and slaughter. The stories that rose around him in the years following built the mythology of the Bonnie Prince – the doomed, romantic hero. The reality is that he finally ended in Italy, where he had started, with nothing but shattered dreams and a taste for alcohol that destroyed him in the long term. He became the Beggar Prince, the Bonnie Prince having died at Culloden.
Claudel "Fergus" Fraser
Fergus never knew his mother or father. Raised in Madame Elise's brothel by the prostitutes who worked there, he was a street urchin and pickpocket. He knew what it meant to be an outsider from the get-go. He did what was necessary to survive and developed quick fingers and great charm as tools in his survival kit. He is comfortable with living on the shady side of the law – whether as a pickpocket, spy or smuggler.
When Jamie takes him on as an employee at age 10, Fergus is given an opportunity to belong to someone. He develops a profound loyalty to the man who will become his father in all but law and, as a result, Fergus shapes much of his morals and behaviour on Jamie's example. Claire becomes his surrogate mother, although he always addresses her as 'Milady' and Jamie as 'Milord' – even as an adult. His desire to please them, and his desolation when Jamie is incarcerated in the Bastille, leaves to him blame himself for Jamie challenging Black Jack to the duel.
(Editor's warning: Season 3 spoilers ahead! Do not read if you have not read "Voyager.")
When Claire leaves and Jamie returns from Culloden, Fergus becomes part of Jenny's brood, loved and disciplined just like her own children. Through the years when Jamie lives in the cave at Lallybroch, it is Fergus who ensures he has food and beer, and brings him news of the family and the district. His first loyalty is always to Jamie, the man who saved him from the brothels and stews of Paris. This devotion causes Fergus to lose his hand. That sabre stroke separates his youth from his adulthood. The consequences stretch far into the future as Fergus continuously struggles to fulfil his ideas of what it means to be a man.
Ian Murray – Ian Mhor
Ian Murray experiences the difficulties of being an outsider when he returns from France having lost a leg. He considers that he has lost his role as a man, along with his leg – he can no longer fight and the daily business of life on a farm is difficult. His struggles to salvage and then retain his sense of himself as a man – "no small thing to be" when you factor in the love and stubbornness of Jenny, Jamie's older sister.
Ian reclaims himself so successfully that he becomes once more an insider – someone who is essential to the survival and well-being of Lallybroch, and all who live and depend on it. Before they leave to join the Prince, Jenny says to Jamie, '…he is a whole man to me, and always will be.' When asked by Jamie if he would accompany them to war, Ian ends by saying, "I shall stay here… Guardin' your weak side, man."
Geillis Duncan
The first real friend Claire makes is another outsider, Geillis Duncan, aka Gillian Edgars. Geillis is an uncomfortable woman, a rebel, a woman who refuses to accept boundaries and does what she wishes regardless of who is in her way. She is a witch in an era where witchcraft is shunned and feared – an era she deliberately chose to go to in pursuit of her passion for Scotland and its independence.
Geillis also continues to be a witch, regardless. She dances naked in the woods by moonlight where none can see her – an expression of her rebellious, yet secretive nature. She uses sex and men for her own ends, but despises them for their stupidity. Geillis has one real loyalty, and that is to Scotland and the Stuart cause. Her husbands are merely tools she uses to get more money for the Jacobites.
She is also a psychopath and serial murderer of at least two husbands – Greg Edgars and the Procurator Fiscal Duncan. The people of Cranesmuir reject her, partly for her crimes and partly because they perceive her as evil and sinful. She is charged with breaking the strict rules of the time, especially in a small village where everyone knows what their neighbours are up to and petty feuds can escalate rapidly into something very ugly, as we saw so vividly in "The Devils Mark."
The court didn't have to go far to find witnesses for the prosecution. Laoghaire, Father Bain, Geillis's maid plus a host of others all got up to tell their tales – a mix of spite, rumour, imagination and a smidgen of truth to add savour to the scandal broth. Each one was motivated by some grievance, both minor and major. All show how "alien" the locals truly view Geillis and Claire. They just didn't fit in. They were outsiders and, therefore, fair game.
A well-known propaganda technique is pinpointing the enemy – find a scapegoat for all the ills you experience. The easiest targets are newcomers and strangers. They have no one to stand pledge for their veracity or character. This validates Jamie's fear and heroic actions in the church. He knows, all too well, how proof can be trampled underfoot by prejudice and superstition. And as Frank explained to Claire at the beginning of the book Outlander, "There is no place on earth with more of the old
superstitions and magic mixed into its daily life than the Scottish highlands." And that was in the 1940s, not the 1740s!
Mary Hawkins ends up an outsider as a result of her rape. A young woman from a good (even if impoverished) family, she becomes a pariah and outcast with little or no future… except to be sold to an old man who would accept her as 'damaged goods'. Society's rejection of her due to circumstances beyond her control leaves her at the mercy of her unscrupulous godfather, Lord Sandringham.
When Mary takes control of her life by escaping with Claire and Murtagh from Sandringham's home, she breaks ties with society's rules too. She grabs what happiness she can with Alex Randall despite the stigma she would experience if people knew they were not married. They live intensely for the few short months of Alex's life, and when he dies she stops caring what happens to her next. Mary is utterly desolate. Any social standing she may have gained through her marriage to Black Jack Randall, short lived as it was, is lost despite bearing the Randall name legitimately through her marriage to Black Jack.
Mary and Claire's stories run parallel in many ways. Claire is forced to leave Jamie and believes he is dead while carrying his child, just as Mary is carrying Alex's child knowing he is dead. Both are linked by their marriages to Randalls, just generations apart.
Master Raymond – The Mysterious Outlander Outsider
Master Raymond, the Parisian apothecary, is by far the most mysterious of Outlander characters we meet. Magician, sorcerer, seller of poisons, abortifacients, snake oil potions and more mundane herbal cures… (breath)… fortune teller, demonist, cabalist, healer – he is all of these, in one guise or another.
His appearance – that of a genial frog, short stature, and strange choice in clothing adorned with arcane symbols – marks him out from the ordinary run of mortals. His shop is decorated to enhance his own oddity, although the weirdest items in his collection are kept safely hidden in the back room warded by cabalist symbols. He is viewed with fear and suspicion by the local populace, used by the aristocracy for their nefarious needs and is friend to both Claire and the Comte Ste Germaine.
No one really knows where he comes from and his past is shrouded in enigma. His position in society is equally murky. Raymond is even more of an outsider than Claire but, much how a frog camouflages and hides itself, so too is he able to obscure who he is from casual inspection. He is a great gatherer and keeper of secrets and yet has a deep understanding of human nature, allied to his ability to see human auras. This enables him to identify Claire's need for an outlet for healing by pointing her in the direction of L'Hopitale Des Anges and Mother Hildegard.
His intentions towards Claire are not clear at first and yet, ultimately, are benign. He goes to the hospital, at great risk to himself, to heal Claire of the postpartum infection that would have killed her. It is interesting however, that Bouton, that canine seeker of infection, avoids Master Raymond, not unlike how a dog will avoid a wolf. Many readers and viewers are hoping that Master Raymond will reappear in the story at some point in the story. We have a soft spot for this eccentric character.
All throughout Outlander, we meet stories of outsiders – all with different reasons for why they can be identified as such. Neuroscientist Beau Lotto once said, "Sharing our understanding narratively allows others to know why we are the way we are. The world we perceive isn't actually the world itself — it's our own story of the world, based on our knowledge and what we've learned from others. That story contains things that actually happened, and it contains things we've just imagined, like mythology, religion, fairy tales, fiction and so on."
Most of us will not ever have to go through the Outlander characters' vicissitudes, however, we can learn something to apply to our lives. Diana Gabaldon permits us to see her characters' struggles – whether physical, mental, emotional or spiritual. Her stories allow us to turn a magnifying glass or microscope on the human condition, whether we know it well from our own life's experience or not.
What is the lesson that you have learned from the Outlander outsiders? How have they changed your perceptions of the world you inhabit? Which character do you identify with – Jack, Frank, Fergus, Geillis, Mary or Master Raymond?
Source: OCB
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Ren Tianyou and others dispersed and rushed towards the crowd of guards. Although the strength of all of these guards were Great Sword Master at minimum, furthermore there were more than 10 Saint ranked experts within them, they didn't even put these guards in their eyes. Perhaps this kind of strength was extremely formidable in the eyes of ordinary people, but how could these four people of Akatsuki organization be ordinary person?
First of all, no need to talk about Ren Tianyou, White Tiger and Void, both of them were elite juniors from ancient 100 clans, had access to the most perfect inheritance, and had already reached Deity rank in strength. Because of the special characteristics of his blood lineage, White Tiger had already reached High-Sword Deity in strength. And although the strength of Void was only at Mid-Sword Deity, nevertheless combining it with his special blood lineage—-Heart death, he was able to surpass his level, and battle against the Peak-Deity ranked experts.
Although the strength of Vermilion Bird was only at peak-Saint rank, nevertheless her Phoenix God blood lineage was extremely formidable blood lineage, with which she could use flame of flame phoenix. The heat of this flame of flame phoenix was clear to everyone, it's said to be able to burn the heaven and exterminate the earth. And it's said that the possessor of this blood lineage could also bath in rebirth fire, and after bathing in rebirth fire their strength would increase further, but each person with Phoenix God blood lineage could bath in rebirth fire only once throughout their whole life, and they must have comprehend the power of Phoenix God blood lineage to certain extent to be able to use this ability.
Just like a wolf that had entered the flock of sheep, they directly started to kill these guards. Honestly speaking there was no resentment between these guards and Ren Tianyou, and the revenge target of Ren Tianyou was also only the members of Ximen clan. But currently he didn't take this into consideration, now all the people who stood in his way were his enemies. Regardless of who they were, this time he didn't mind to ruthlessly kill all of them.
"Chi!" the sword of kusanagi in the right hand of Ren Tianyou directly stabbed through the body of a guard who wanted to sneak attack Ren Tianyou from behind, ending his life. At the same time, 5-6 guards who were holding a long swords rushed towards Ren Tianyou from the front.
"Humph!" Seeing these incoming guards, Ren Tianyou snorted coldly, loosen his right hand, then the guard behind him fell down. After that he quickly made a series of hand seals, then his right hand emitted a powerful lightning. And an ear-piercing sound of birds chirping rang out.
Ren Tianyou slightly bowed, drooped his right hand, and the powerful lightning of Chidori shattered the hard floor of Soaring Dragon Villa. After that his eyes firmly locked on to the incoming guards who were about to arrive in front of him.
"Swish!" The body of Ren Tianyou blurred and disappeared from his original location, leaving behind only his after image. Then Ren Tianyou instantly arrived in front of the foremost guard, and under the unable to believe expression of this guard, the chidori in the right hand of Ren Tianyou directly stabbed his body, making a huge hole in his abdomen.
"Eh!?" This guard was surprised and he wanted to open his mouth and groan in pain, but due to the continuous flow of lightning of chidori to his body, his body was completely paralyzed. After that he sensed that he was slowly losing all of his strength, and finally slowly closed his eyes forever.
"First one!" Ren Tianyou gloomily said, then he took out his right hand which was covered with chidori from the corpse of already dead guard, then he continued to rush in front of him. Because he was drooping his right hand, the chidori in his right hand continued to cut open a long ravine on the floor, and very quickly he made a contact with second guard. Seeing the fate of the first guard, this guard had already taken a precaution against the move of Ren Tianyou. When Ren Tianyou almost arrived in front of him, the long sword in his right hand emitted a yellow colored radiance and then he chopped it towards the head of Ren Tianyou.
Seeing the slash of this long sword, the Sharingan of Ren Tianyou already saw through the path of this attack, and just before this sword could arrive in front of his head, he suddenly bent his body, successfully dodging this attack, after that his right hand that was filled with chidori directly stabbed the body of this guard, ending his life.
"Two!" Ren Tianyou coldly said, and continued to advance towards the remaining targets. And on the other sides, White Tiger and others were also carrying out a massacre.
After White Tiger spit out these words, the white colored sword qi around his body suddenly lit up and rose, covered his whole body, then his body immediately changed into white colored sword light and disappeared from that location.
Immediately after White Tiger disappeared, the guards around that place suddenly gave out a blood-curdling scream. After 'ah', 'ah', 'ah'…………..a series of miserable scream, every guards around them covered their neck, fell down on the ground, and continued to churn. And one could clearly see that the blood was continuously seeping out from the gap between their fingers of the hand which had covered their neck. Obviously this was caused by White Tiger, in such a short time, he had directly cut the throat of all the guards around him in an extremely high speed.
In the middle of these fallen guards, along with the white colored sword light, White Tiger who was holding rapier which was still dripping with blood appeared. Then looking at the miserable condition around him, a ruthless smile appeared in his face, after that he stepped forward. The strength of all those guards who were rolling and struggling on the ground slowly disappeared, then stopped their struggle and turned into a cold corpse.
On the other side, Void who was holding karma transmigration firmly stared at the magnificent lineup of three Saint ranked guard leader furthermore seven Great Swords Master in front of him.
Although the other's strength was very high, nevertheless as a member of Death clan, Void was not afraid of them. One could clearly see this from the continuously quivering with excitement karma transmigration in his hand. Suddenly, karma transmigration automatically flew out from his hand and rose in the air in front of him, then the grey colored undead battle qi around his body and Void himself directly changed into a grey colored light and flowed into the blade of karma transmigration. After absorbing them, the karma transmigration sent out a violent sound, and a huge grey colored energy surrounded the karma transmigration's blade, then the length of the blade increased by several meter, and changed into a big sword. And this sword now release an extremely fierce sword qi, and was filled with fierce aura which seemed unstoppable.
Then this sword just like slashing through the void, directly appeared above the head of these 10 guards, and advanced imposingly towards them.
At that time, three figure flew from below towards this incoming slash. Then the three metal colliding sound rang out, those three Saint ranked guards had released their powerful battle qi and had used their weapons to block this slash. But the shoulder of these three were unceasingly trembling, it seems it was not that easy to block this block this attack, despite their best effort.
"Hong!" These three Saint ranked guards were pressed down to the ground by the attack of Void, then 'kacha kacha' several cracking sound rank out. And a several huge cracks appeared in the floor of this place, which spread in all direction.
At that time, several sound of movement was heard, those remaining 7 guards had taken this chance and was advancing towards Void while releasing their powerful battle qi.
But when they had just arrived where the three Saint ranked guard leader fallen, suddenly huge grey colored energy ring appeared above the huge sword. And the energies in the air continuously advanced towards this ring, then these rings lit with grey colored radiance.
Seeing this ring, and especially that gradually rising radiance, the guards felt chill inside their heart. And before they could make any move, they were completely suppressed and couldn't move at all, and could only look helplessly. After that this ring erupted with a loud sound.
"Hong!" Along with a loud explosion sound, this huge ring burst and the death wave spread in all direction in a high speed. The floor was completely crushed into pieces and changed into power. And the three Saint ranked guard leader were the first to be affected, this terrifying attack wave immediately engulfed them, and even the seven guards behind them were not able to flee from this shock wave. This attack engulfed everything at that place.
Along with a loud explosion sound, a huge dusts and smoke rose up, which engulfed everything within the radius of five meters. After that, several guards who were lacking hands or legs shot out from this huge dusts and smoke, fell on the ground, and lied on the ground motionlessly. They were clearly dead.
After the smokes and dusts dissipated, the circumstance inside could be seen. A deep crater which was about one meter in radius had appeared in that place, and at the bottom of this crater, the figure of Void who was wearing black robe with red clouds imprinted on it gradually became visible. And in the sky above him, karma transmigration lightly chirped, slowly revert back to its original size, and flew back to his hand.
Next to him, there lied the scattered corpse of several guards. Under that sudden terrifying attack of Void, even those three Saint ranked guard were not able to escape from their death. Void looked towards the sky, and changed into a grey colored light and disappeared from there.
On the other side, a powerful golden colored flame had appeared on the surface of the tender body of Vermilion bird. The temperature of this flame was so hot that it seems even the air around her were being evaporated by this flame. This was Phoenix God blood lineage's the ability to use Phoenix flame, which could burn nearly all evil energy in this world.
Looking at more than 10 guards around her, a beautiful smile appeared on the fiery red lips of Vermilion Bird, then with a thought, the fire phoenix sword flashed with flame and automatically flew out from the sheath and landed on her hand.
After the fire phoenix sword landed on her hand, the terrifying golden flame on her body flowed towards the blade of that sword, after that the blade of fire phoenix sword was thoroughly filled with the golden flame light beam. Then looking at the guards in front of her with her two big beautiful eyes, she opened her mouth and yelled in her lovely voice.
After that along with the loud cry of Phoenix, a huge fire phoenix rose from the blade of the fire phoenix sword, flapped its two huge flame wings, raised its huge head and flew in the sky.
After this huge fire phoenix rose, the body of Vermilion Bird changed into gold colored flame light, and flew in the sky. Then staring at those guards below with a ruthless smile on her beautiful face, she gave order to the fire phoenix to attack.
After hearing the command of Vermilion Bird, the enormous eyes of fire phoenix stared at the guards below on the ground, spread its wings, and directly changing into huge fire, it directly scooped towards the guards below.
"Hong!" Along with loud explosion sound, a huge gold colored flame engulfed the area within the radius of 7 or 8 meters. And an extremely high heat was also spread in all direction from this flame.
After that Feng Wu slowly walked out from the middle of this golden flame, and the fire phoenix sword she was holding with her right hand changed into fire radiance and disappeared.
Thinking this, the eyes of Ren Tianyou flashed, and quickly made a series of hand seals. Finished making hand seals, Ren Tianyou yelled.
After making hand seals was completed, he placed his right hand which was curled in front of his mouth, took a deep breath and spat out a huge fire ball from his mouth towards those guards standing in front of him.
Seeing a huge fire ball was advancing towards them, they released a powerful battle qi radiances from their body, and swung their swords, which send out huge energy slash flying towards the incoming fire ball. After that along with a huge explosion sound, this huge fire ball continuously became smaller and disappeared.
But before these guards had time to become happy, a loud dragon roar rang out, and they suddenly saw a huge fiery dragon was advancing towards them, when they had just finished dealing with huge fireball.
As a matter of fact, after Ren Tianyou had used Goukakyuu no Jutsu (Grand Fireball Technique), he had continued to make hand seals of Katon——Goryuka no Jutsu (Fire Style—-Dragon Flame Jutsu), and taking the advantage of the gap when the guards were attacking, he had fired this ninjutsu.
Along with a loud explosion sound, the screaming voice of those guards rang out. Under to the attack Goryuka no Jutsu (Dragon Flame Jutsu) of Ren Tianyou, many guards were sent flying, some had their body roasted by this terrifying flame, and some were directly blown to pieces. Even after this, this attack continued to advance forward, and hit the entrance gate. And along with the loud explosion sound, the luxurious entrance door of the Ximen clan shook violently as if it would collapse at any moment.
After seeing that all the guards were taken care of, Ren Tianyou walked towards the front, passed through the smoke caused by the explosion at the entrance door, and entered the courtyard of Soaring Dragon Villa. Then looked at the groups of people of Ximen clan who were standing at the hall.
Just at that time, several movement sound came from behind Ren Tianyou, then three radiance appeared at his side, and from inside this radiance, the figure of White Tiger and other appeared.
arent the phoenix and the vermilion bird 2 completely different birds of fire.
yes the vermilion brid is more royal, the phoenix is an undead bird basicaly a beast.
How about he just have shukaku use tailed beast bomb and have that be the end of it.
……..all those descriptions to kill off some low rank guards…..
….the fight scene was done good …..but…wasn't this chapter a ….waste?


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Pool safety covers do more that keep your pool clean and protected in the off season, they keep them safe – safe for friends, family and pets. Safety for children and pets, the major concern for every pool owner, was the motivating factor in Meyco's development of their mesh cover back in 1956. Decades of improvements and four U.S. patents later, Meyco continues to offer an outstanding version of the original mesh safety cover. Unlike many so-called safety covers, Meyco pool safety covers exceed all ASTM standards for safety, as well as many local safety requirements.
When properly secured to the pool decking, the cover's crisscrossed webbing holds taut across the pool in "trampoline style". Meyco pool safety covers cannot blow off in a windstorm, are difficult to remove without their safety installation rod, and if that weren't enough, the straps are capable of withstanding over 4,500 lbs. of tension.
No other safety precaution you put in place will keep your loved ones and pets safe like a pool safety cover from Meyco.
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The machines currently in JoeJet's collection, as well as the games owned in the past and the wishlist.
JoeJet currently owns these machines.
JoeJet has these machines on the wishlist.
JoeJet has previously owned these machines.


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Mack E7 Engine History and Technical Information
Posted on August 11, 2021 by Worldhide
The Mack e7 engine is the backbone of the almighty Mack Bulldog fleet. The history of the engine is steeped in technology, tradition and good old American gumption one would expect from Mack. The e7 mack engine was first conceptualized in 1988 by the Mack Corporation engineers and introduced in 1989. The Mack E7 Engine replaced the longstanding Mack e6 model and was produced for over 20 years. The same year Mack also introduced the CH Series for on-highway heavy duty applications. The engine is 6 cylinder, heavy duty rated and in use both for on-highway and off highway industrial applications.
Mack engines are known for their per foot pound of torque output. They are workhorses in industrial applications meaning most Mack enthusiasts measure "power to the ground" over high horsepower capabilities of other diesel engines. Comparing a 400 hp CAT to a 400 hp Mack is like comparing cats to dogs. Competitors will compare the engine strength at the flywheel whereas Mack's competitive advantage comes into play with the differentials and transmissions. This allows power down low where you need it during pulling situations. Mack engines are not built for speed unlike Cummins, CAT or Detroit but for long-term durability; perfect for service applications like Public Bus Fleets, Fire Engines, Dump Trucks and Refuse Vehicles. The Mack e7 engine's optimal running rate is at 1400-1800 rpms but isn't designed for high running rates. It is not unlikely to have a Mack Engine put 1,500,000 miles hauling full loads and not need a major overhaul. Mack E7 engines are found in mining, oil and gas, agriculture, construction, pumps and compressors and power generation. 5.3 ls engine for sale
Mack E7 Engine Technology
Typical horsepower rating for the mack e7 is between 250-400 hp. At the lowest rating of 250 hp the mack e7 engine will put out 975 foot pounds of torque. Consequently, at the highest hp rating a Mack e7 engine will put out was 454 hp at an impressive 1,660 foot pounds of torque. The vast majority of mack e7 engines still on the road are later models which are all water cooled. The original design up until 1990, featured a turbocharged air mounted cooling system. After 1990 Mack engineers developed their patented Econovance variable injection timing system which increased fuel efficiency greatly and cut emissions. Many speculate Mack redesigned the engine to meet the Environmental Protection Agency's emissions standards. Since 1990 more redesigns have been implemented to meet EPA regulations. The Econovance system was used exclusively on the E7 engine but not adopted by other production lines at Mack. In addition to the Ecconovance technology Mack also introduced another modification to its E7 line which improved the efficiency of the air/fuel mixing ratio through a high injection pressure combustion system known as "swirl technology" which increased airflow greatly. The higher pressure injection system improved fuel economy and combustion productivity all while optimizing proper oil viscosity and reducing engine emissions. Due to the increased air flow a byproduct is less pressure on the injectors. Customers are happy to find that injector failure is quite uncommon with Mack E7 models.
Mack E-Tech Engine Introduction
The Mack E7 Engine ended up being one the most popular industrial diesel engines of all time. Both large scale and small scale operations flocked to the Mack E7 Engine because of its reliability and fuel efficiency. Up until 1999 Mack ended up producing 16 different varieties of the E7. 1999 ended up becoming a landmark year for Mack when once again it hit a home run with its Mack E-Tech series. Mack E-Tech engines are still being produced and are still known for their outstanding horsepower to weight ratio. Mack E-Tech engines are 6 cylinder multi-system cooled and range from 360 to 500 hp. The fuel injection system uses an upgrade to the Econovance technology of the E7 called the Mack V-Mac III electronic fuel control system which utilized electronic unit pumps. The E Tech engine also uses high swirl combustion for increased fuel efficiency and emissions production. Like the E7 the E-Tech features dual flow paint on oil lubrication system with a 34 quart capacity. The E-Tech has upgraded high rated steel crest articulated pistons and both wet and dry liners for long standing resilience.


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Fugitive Italian Mafia Boss Vincenzo Macri Arrested In Brazil
Fugitive Italian Mafia Boss Vincenzo…
Vincenzo Macri was arrested at Brazil's Sao Paulo airport while using fake identity documents, authorities said Saturday, ending a two year search for one of Italy's most notorious crime bosses.
"Vincenzo Macri's arrest is another very important operation against the 'ndrangheta, adding to the arrest of other dangerous fugitives carried out recently," Interior Minister Marco Minniti said in a statement.
Macri, 52, is a top boss of the Commisso, a crime clan of the 'ndrangheta based in Siderno, Calabria.
The 'ndrangheta is Italy's most powerful mafia organization, having overtaken Sicily's Cosa Nostra and is considered one of the leading traffickers of cocaine into Europe.
Italian media reported Macri intended to fly to Caracas, Venezuela, where he was believed to be living under a false identity.
Italian authorities have been trying to arrest Macri since 2015, when they accused him of international drug trafficking and mafia membership.
He is expected to be extradited from Brazil to Italy.
Macri previously served time behind bars in a US prison between 1989-2002 for drug trafficking. He later moved to the Netherlands where is supposedly ran a florist business.
Macri comes from an established crime family. His father, Antonio Macri, was a top mafia boss before being shot dead in 1975 in an 'ndrangheta clan feud.
The arrest comes nearly a week after police captured top 'ndrangheta crime boss Giuseppe Giorgi in a bunker inside his home in San Luca, Calabria. He had been on the run for 26 years.
In late May, police in Italy and Germany arrested 22 people running a cocaine trafficking racket linked to the 'ndrangheta.
Category: CrimeBy Joe Levin June 10, 2017
Tags: BrazilCrimeVincenzo Macri
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Qualifying experience for the EL/GS-15 level includes one year of specialized experience at least equivalent to EL/GS-14 which is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.
Directed or participated in the financial management functions and oversees financial systems activities of an agency.
Provided direction and oversight and ensures data integrity in financial systems through consistent review and evaluations.
Directed or participated in the financial analysis of obligations, expenses, and budget availability and developed short term and longer projections for use by senior management in making program and budget decisions.
Recommended, established, and administered agency-wide budget formulation strategies and programs.
Directed accounting policies and practices within an agency.
Prepared financial statements and reports for submission to external parties.
If you are a veteran with preference eligibility and are claiming 5-points veterans' preference, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 or other proof of eligibility. If you are claiming 10-point veterans' preference, you must also submit an SF-15, "Application for 10-Point Veterans' Preference" plus the proof required by that form. For more information on veterans' preference visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Veterans.
Career Transition Assistance Programs: These programs apply to employees who have been involuntarily separated from a Federal service position within the competitive service or Federal service employees whose positions have been deemed surplus or no longer needed. To receive selection priority for this position, you must: (1) meet CTAP or ICTAP eligibility criteria; (2) be rated well-qualified for the position with a score of 90 or above; and, (3) submit the appropriate documentation to support your CTAP or ICTAP eligibility. For more information visit: http://www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp.
FHFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, disability (physical or mental), age (40 years of age or over), genetic information, parental status, marital status, prior protected EEO activity, political affiliation, or other non-merit factors.
FHFA provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities, except when doing so would pose an undue hardship on the Agency. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify FHFA at (202) 649-3963. The Agency's decision on granting a reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Ethics: FHFA employees are subject to government-wide ethical standards of conduct, financial disclosure requirements, and post-employment prohibitions. In addition, certain FHFA employees are prohibited from accepting compensation from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for a two-year period after terminating employment with FHFA. Furthermore, to avoid financial conflicts-of interest or the appearance of conflicts-of-interest, FHFA employees may need to divest or sell certain assets they, their spouse, or minor children own or control, including securities issued by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the Federal Home Loan Banks. Employees who work on Federal Home Loan Bank issues may need to sell or divest financial interests with any of the Federal Home Loan Bank members, which may include stock in bank holding companies, insurance companies, and other financial services firms. Questions regarding these requirements and prohibitions should be directed to the Office of General Counsel at (202) 649-3088.
You will be rated based on your responses to the job specific questionnaire and assigned a score ranging from 70 to 100 points. The top ten candidates, and those tied for the tenth spot, will be referred for selection. All qualified non-competitive applicants will be referred.
All of the information you provide will be verified by a review of the work experience and/or education as shown on your application forms, by checking references or through other means, such as the interview process. This verification could occur at any stage of the application process. Any exaggeration of your experience, false statements, or attempts to conceal information may be grounds for rating you ineligible.


The most flexible machine in the higher power bracket with a lifting capacity of 10 tonne. Engineered with a pressure compensated hydraulic system with a "flow on demand concept" to ensure maximum efficiency while conserving power. The LS190 underground loader can be used in conjunction with hydraulic assist roof support trailers for relocating the larger longwall equipment in use today. With a wide range of attachments this machine which is more productive, more efficient and more user friendly than any other similar machine in the Australian market.


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MARIA MILLER, MP SAYS MORE ACADEMIES IN BASINGSTOKE CAN HELP DRIVE UP SCHOOL STANDARDS
Maria says: "Basingstoke parents want the best schools for their children. The Budget announcement that by 2020 all schools will be academies, or in the process of conversion, offers a real opportunity for our local schools."
MARIA MILLER, MP CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Maria Miller hosted students at Westminster as part of International Women's Day to promote greater equality for women in politics and the wider world. Maria met with Aheng Negargar from Queen Mary's College, Basingstoke, who was able to watch during a session of the Women and Equalities Select Committee, visit Downing Street, shadow Maria and watch the International Women's Day debate in Parliament.
MARIA MILLER, MP AT HONEYCOMB CHILDREN'S CENTRE
Thursday, 3 March, 2016
Maria said: "It is always good to meet parents and carers at Children's Centres and hear their views on the important support and activities they can access at the Centres.
MARIA MILLER, MP MEETS LOCAL FARMERS
Maria said: "I was very pleased to have this opportunity to discuss the mounting pressures facing modern farmers."
MARIA MILLER MP CALLS FOR ACTION AGAINST DIXON ROAD LANDOWNERS
Maria Miller has called for swift action to be taken to bring the owners of land at Dixon Road back to court after their failure to replant the trees which they illegally felled.
MARIA MILLER MP RESPONDS TO CONSULTATION ON LOCAL PLAN
Monday, 8 February, 2016
Maria Miller has submitted her response to the latest consultation on the draft Local Plan. Maria said: "We have to make sure that any new house building goes hand in hand with the necessary investment in local services.
MARIA MILLER, MP SUPPORTS CARBON MONOXIDE - BE ALARMED CAMPAIGN
Thursday, 4 February, 2016
Maria is supporting a call from the Carbon Monoxide – Be Alarmed! campaign to make 2016 the year everyone protects themselves from this silent killer. The campaign urges everyone to fit and maintain an audible Carbon Monoxide alarm and ensure all fuel-burning appliances are serviced annually by a registered and qualified engineer.
MARIA MILLER MP VISITS LOCAL SCHOOLS
Maria recently visited Winklebury Infant and Junior Schools as part of her programme of regular visits to Basingstoke Schools. After a short tour, she met members of both School Councils. Last Friday, she attended the official opening of the new primary school at Rooksdown.
MARIA MILLER, MP JOINS LAUNCH OF 'PARK AND STRIDE'.
Maria Miller joined Hatch Warren Primary School's pupils, parents and teachers on Friday 15 January to launch their new "Park and Stride" scheme.
MARIA MILLER MP MEETS ENTREPRENEURS AT BASINGSTOKE HIGH-TECH HUB
Maria Miller visited the SETsquared hub at Basing View to meet some of the entrepreneurs participating in the business incubation programme, which helps to support and develop high-tech start-up businesses. The Entrepreneurship Training Programme was highly commended by the Government at the Enterprising Britain Awards in November last year, and Maria took the opportunity to congratulate them on the award.