Phillip Ross donates funds to the Newland Guard Initiative

[Editor: IRRK]

Phillip Ross donates funds to the Newland Guard Initiative
IRRK News Wire Staff

Newland City -- IRRK -- February 3, the Newland City Council met again in Newland to discuss funding and procedures for the Newland Guard Initiative (NGI). On hand were representatives from J.A.M.E. and the Newland Council.

In a chilling turn of events it was discovered that the Newland Council bank account had been hacked and a total of 100 million credits has gone missing.

Many citizens offered what they could to make up for the missing money and steep charges of J.A.M.E., but one citizen in particular was able to pick up the bill alone. Phillip Ross showed up to the meeting in time to learn of the progress of the situation. He also agreed to pick up the outstanding missing funds.

Mr. Ross mentioned that his reasons for picking up the tab were, "his own," and that the money provided is from his personal account and not tied to Omni-Tek. Mr. Ross did mention a strong desire to see the true neutrality of Newland show.

How much one accepts his statements will vary. But it's clear that the Newland Guard Initiative is at least firmly underway.

But again, questions remain, what's to come next? How will Loren Warr react?

[-Zagadka-]

Dmitri "Stalil" Volya:

What's wrong here? Are the Neutrals finally throwing away their status? Those Sentinels sitting in Tir aren't going to take this well, and neither are most of the other Clans. Ross may have bought the Neutrals some defenses, be he probably purchased a fair share of problems to go along with them. I, for one, won't let this Omnis in Neutland business stand. I'd rather have the Warrs in control than Omni-Tek, despite Ross's claims!

[Kithraks]

I applaud Phillip Ross for makeing a public show of support for the Newland Guards Initative. Omni-Tek employees have been makeing various contributions over the previous months to this effort also on 'their own' despite the resistance from various sectors of the Rubi-Kan populations.

The mercs have already hired traitors within Omni-Tek to sabotage the Newland Guards Initative effort two months ago. Do not worry, even as we speak the Omni traitor/saboteurs are being hunted down like vermin. They have been tracked and found to be sheltered by a disloyal department. It will only be a matter of time until they are braught to justice.

Supporters of the NGI must be continue ever vigilant. The mercs now have nothing to lose. We must be ready for any last minute desprate measures they may employ.

Regards,
Administrator Houston
Omni-Admin

[Xhairs]

Never before have i been so proud to be an Omni-Tek employee.

Stalil, you know as well as i do that what ever had been done in this situation the Sentinels would not have looked upon it in any possitive way. They only want one thing, all people under the "guiding light" of Silverstone because he alone knows everything.

This was a private gift from Phillip Ross to the Newland City Council. Omni-Tek has nothing to do with it. I´m not asking anyone to make a leap of faith and accept it without having second thoughts, but at least give it the benefit of the thought that it might be what it looks like. A gift offered in peace, and with hopes of a better tomorrow.

[Dyna18]

Omni-Tek has always respected the freedom of the neutrals, and respects them highly. Like this latest action just proved some more. Omni-Tek will always try to protect the innocent from terrorist activities.

I too am proud to be working for Omni-Tek.

[Demenzia]

Sometimes ya Clan people leave me really wondering what tha hell is in yer heads?

So having Loren Warr and her Thugs gunnin' down yer own kind is Newland is preferrable to have our own CEO helping out tha Neutrals to defend their city by offering funds? Yer whining 'bout tha Thugs being "Omni-Tek driven", then when someone helps in gettin' rid of 'em, ya *still* whine some more? Will ya people be ever satisfied with anything, dammit?

I've never been a fervant partisan of having tha Thugs in, nor have I screamed to get 'em removed though. To m,e it was a measure of defence like any other, at tha time, in response to action from tha Clans. But right now (and please dun't feed me with tha usual "brainwashing" crap, I know of quite a good deal of Clanners who are then "brain washed" a lot too), I dun't need CEO Ross' approval or orders to realize that tha Newland Council deal with JAME was conducted in an exteremly chaotic way, which partly led to tha sad events and gunning down we've seen one day ago.

Think it's really time to bicker over and over again 'bout it? Why not rather look at tha current situation and realize that Loren Warr and her people may now begin to really apply a terror policy in Newland to force tha Council to step down? I dun't especially trust JAME's role in this, but... Various solutions have been offered, CEO Ross' is among 'em, now is tha Council's role to take its decision, and quickly, before things really get to turn ugly.

[Vixentrox]

I wonder if Omni-Tek and Ross wasn't really behind the stolen credits to begin with. How convienent it would be to steal the money then make the generous show of replacing it.

[____________Talonarr]

Naturally Ross wants to see neutral territories. To Omni-Tek, they are still Omni employees and Omni facilities. They know the people of Newland and other non-affiliated territories represent possible profit centers through the sales of merchandise and services.

I wish I could see how this could have a lofty interpretation. It would be nice to think Ross would be interested in keeping a zone where the two sides of the conflict could meet and work things out. Yet, it is obvious that this is nothing more than a PR move and a way to keep a prospective customer base happy. Typical corporation behavior.

[Cogs]

(ooc: had to remove this...I was lacking vital information...making the post meaningless....argh.....note to self: read all info before making hasty posts ))

[-Zagadka-]

Dr. Cindi "Razishlyat" Bolieu:

Now that I've had some time to collect my thoughts, I findi t interesting how quickly the NLC council flipped between refusing to accept donations from both Clan, Omni, and Neutral organizations to rapidly accepting Mr. Ross's offer. I'm quite sure that the display we saw was not the first contact Mr. Ross had with the NLC.

What disturbs me the most here is the interaction between Omni-Tek and JAME. Many citizens at the meeting were concerned about JAME getting a foothold on Rubi-Ka. As I myself said, for an organization that had previously been content with sitting back in their floating city and letting Rubi-Ka entangle itself, they seem awfully interested in taking an active role in an extremely controversial and important change. And now, even with monies straight from the pocket of Mr. Ross, they did not blink. I fear that there is some connection here that we can't see.

As for Mr. Ross himself, I trust him in this matter. I don't think he was behind the accounts being hacked, and I certainly don't think that he was behing Loren Warr. Omni-Tek departments have been shown to act with complete independence in the past, so it would not surprise me that things happen beyond his control.

However, I think we are all glad to see Loren get thrown out of Newland City. She is an embarassment for Omni-Tek, a pain in the butt for the Clans, and has virtually destroyed the use of Newland as a city and transport hub.

I simply wish that the Newland City council had accepted my proposal to have the Clans and Neutrals match Mr. Ross's "donation" credit for credit, because they may well lose their neutrality after this.

[lizor]

Originally posted by Vixentrox
I wonder if Omni-Tek and Ross wasn't really behind the stolen credits to begin with. How convienent it would be to steal the money then make the generous show of replacing it.

Ross did refuse to answer that question when I asked it to him directly at the "meeting."

I'm sorry, but after years of sifting through the various "informational" avenues that are normally available to the typical Rubi-Ka citizen, I have found that the public displays, meetings and "announcements" are only a charade, a fascade, and a circus act to garner public opinion towards a certain end.

Typical Omni response: "Yay! Boss Ross! You da man."

What they are either failing to realize, or refuse to consider in the first place is the sickening turn of events that are about to unfold regarding Newland City. Personally, I'd much rather have the Dust Brigade in charge of security there. At least you have no doubts where they stand.

[-Zagadka-]

Originally posted by Lizor
meetings and "announcements" are only a charade, a fascade, and a circus act to garner public opinion towards a certain end.

Dr. Cindi "Razishlyat" Bolieu:

Quite right, and I suspect the same. The Newland City Council was far too quick to accept Mr. Ross's bid and decline others.

Nothing too scandalous, though. Like I said, I trust Ross here. I DON'T trust JAME, though, nor do I trust the Sentinels. I think Newland is in for a world of pain by accepting, and I hope that pain doesn't lead to Omni-Tek suddenly deciding to protect their leader's investment.

[Xhairs]

What seems to have passed by is the size of the gift. When JAME delegates revealed the new demanded price it had doubled from the day before to a total of 1.8 Billion Credits for the initial downpayment and the two first months. After it was discovered that there was 100 Million missing there was 600 Million left that the Newland City Council could pay. That is one third of what was asked, and even with the missing 100 Million it would not have been close to enough.

Mr. Ross stepped in and forked up 1.2 Billion Credits from his own private account to ensure that Newland City once more should be guarded by Neutral personel.

((OOC: I was there, and this is the way i understood what happened. I might have missed something though as there was a lot of talking going on.))

[Falikos]

Starts transmission of recording from Nueters R Us, Feb. 3rd
((Full log here: http://ao.warcry.com/scripts/news/vi...41edcba9dd2963))

Phillip Ross: I am willing to make up the difference....from my personal funds...and assure Newland protection until your militia is trained by my own guard.
Andevick: We have to hear what Mr. Ross has to say
Phillip Ross: No loan....no obligations.
Julane smiles
Julane: That is indeed fantastic news, Mr. Ross!
Falikos: Pardon what is likely rude, but Sir, what strings are attached with that generous offer?
Luckynuke grins
Andevick: That is most great news Mr. Ross
Cygwin: J.A.M.E. Will not wait for your circumstances, accept our prices or enlist another service.
Exxxie was wondering the same thing
Phillip Ross: None....Newland should live up to its name....New Land.
Redstalker smiles
Julane: Sir...do we accept their offer?
Phillip Ross: Soon...soon we might be forced to set aside our differences....We need to start somewhere.
Cygwin lowers his eyebrows sarcastically
Andevick: It appears we can accept your deal Mr. Cygwin
Falikos: I am surprised and pleased you think so.
Julane: Should I perhaps check the city funds?
Julane: Just to...make sure?
Uellio: Your window is closing Counselor
Makhnovist: There's no difference between Warr and Ross, this is a mistake
Andevick: Yes please Ms. Julane
Phillip Ross: As said. These are my personal funds. There are no ties to OMNI-TEK, nor do I wish a say in what you do with it.
Julane casts a glance at Ross and Andevick
Xhairs swells with pride at Phillip Ross words.
Belle2 smells a rat
Julane nods
Ramid shakes his head
Ysabelle can't help the su****ion in her eyes.
Julane taps her wristunit and stares at it
Vayde waves his hand over the black device again and places it within his pocket...
Julane: The funds are not yet in place, but I am *sure* they will be! Very soon!
Exxxie is grateful for Mr. Ross's generosity
Andevick: Good
Raijou: Mr. Ross, you are a shining example of a truly good man as long as your words stay true
Cygwin: Counselor, I must return to my executives.
Makhnovist scowls
Luckynuke smiles at the stupidity he hears
Cygwin: My secretary will remain to complete these proceedings
Falikos: Mr. Ross, I do not speak for the council, and while your help seems genuine my personal suspension of disbelief is thin here. I would like to personally offer to pay you back over time for your help now. You are a big man to owe a favour to and I'd hate to see that bite Newland in the backside if you know what I mean.
Andevick: Alright
Raijou nods
Andevick: Thank you for attending to this meeting Mr. Cygwin
Ysabelle smiles at Fali's words.
Redstalker: Here here, Falikos. I will assist you in returning Mr. Ross' generosity.
Banjax: I would join Falikos in that endeavour
Phillip Ross: If that is your wish....But trust me, the money you save now will be needed...soon...
Makhnovist: Time will show how well this works, I suspect you've saved us Falikos.
Cygwin: J.A.M.E. Is glad you have finally found resolution on this issue, and funds to fulfil our contract.
Cygwin: Thank you.
Falikos: I only do my best and what I think is the right thing Sir.
Julane smiles
Devgodz need to sit down...
Phillip Ross: smiles
Julane: I believe everything is in order, Ms. Uellio
Makhnovist grins
Uellio smiles softly watching the Councilmen and listening
Xhairs: Sir. If there is a need for a temporary guard, I would be honoured to volunteer for the assignment.
Julane: Perhaps we should settle the finalization?
Luckynuke: If I may ask, what do you need to be protected from? and at what cost?
Uellio: Yes I have been drawing up the figure matrix
Julane nods
Phillip Ross: Ah yes...the fabled Falikos...Now I remember. I have read about you in my reports...said to be smart and distrusting...but rarely wrong in her assessments.
Devgodz: excuse me Mr. Ross, what will the new guars relations to the Clans be? will they be shot at on sight?
Falikos: I am what I am.
Uellio proceeds to tap upon her HUD and nods
Falikos smiles brightly
Phillip Ross: Indeed...do you play chess per chance?
Julane: You may send it to my wrist unit, Ms. Uellio
Raijou looks uncomfortable
Uellio: Open your HUD for reception of my document. Good
Andevick: We will be recruiting for the militia
Falikos: Sometimes, but it has been a long time.
Makhnovist finds this disturbing
Uellio continues to move through the transfer sequence nodding
Luckynuke shakes his head
Julane taps her wrist unit and scans through the incoming upload
Phillip Ross: Perhaps one day in the future..when al this is over...and we both are amongst the living...you would honour me in a game, yes?
Ramid looks at the entrance and scans the room
Julane: Yes, these seem to be in order
Uellio: I believe all of our figures are easily accounted for through that credits matrix
Paulicus would like to volunteer to help "escort" Loren Warr out of Newland
Falikos nods
Falikos: I would like that, as I intend to remain living.
Julane: Let me just put my digital signature here and send a copy back and everything should be in order
Julane taps her wristunit
Makhnovist: I'm sure Mr. Ross will honour the neutrality of the city, otherwise, this is clearly not a charitable act.
Uellio smiles softly
Phillip Ross: Very well....Counselor Andevick...I assume you will need some time to think over my offer...
Andevick: On the behalf of Newland we thank you Mr. Ross
Julane: There we go, they should be uploading to you now
Andevick: Yes I will go to my desk to do the figures
Julane looks over her shoulder
Uellio: That will do for now though shouldn't the Council members themselves see this as well?
Makhnovist clears his throat
Julane: Councillor Andevick Sir...all the papers are in order. I will send them to the office for reviewing before the final agreement

End transmission

Mr. Ross will get his credits back as promised, although it may take the rest of my natural life.

-Falikos

[Blackpetal]

Phillip does indeed have deep pockets, but his credits are as tainted as those of Omni-Tek, and the Newland City Council would do well to remember where the "generosity" of outside parties has gotten them up to this point.

God save Omni-Tek!

-Blackpetal

[LLJKTonitrum]

Such bitterness from the Clans. So many, convinced that Phillip Ross is the source of all evil upon Rubi-Ka, and refusing to accept the neutrality of the city of Newland. So many too blinded by their own dogma to acknowledge the truth of the matter.

It is no wonder that I chose to leave them behind, and join the corporation. It should be a sad day for any clanner when Omni-Tek shows themselves to be nobler, and more dedicated to the cause of freedom, than those who wrap themselves in that cause every day of their existence.

[____________Talonarr]

You don't get to a position like Ross has without making sure every single action you take betters you in some way. There is no such thing as altruism or goodwill that high up in the echelon. Mark my words, Ross's actions will have some benefit to Omni-Tek and/or himself aside from warm fuzzies.

Oh, and I know Ross isn't the root of all evil in Rubi-Ka. Those who've participated in the Jobean experiments in the Shadowlands could tell you that. There are things out there...*shudder*...lets just say that nightmares don't cover it.

[Blackpetal]

Originally posted by Talonarr
You don't get to a position like Ross has without making sure every single action you take betters you in some way. There is no such thing as altruism or goodwill that high up in the echelon. Mark my words, Ross's actions will have some benefit to Omni-Tek and/or himself aside from warm fuzzies.

Oh, and I know Ross isn't the root of all evil in Rubi-Ka. Those who've participated in the Jobean experiments in the Shadowlands could tell you that. There are things out there...*shudder*...lets just say that nightmares don't cover it.

I like the cut of your jib, Talonarr. I'm glad to see that there are others out there who know the horrible evil at our doorstep...

-Petal

[Windguaerd]

After an investigation of the recordings of February 3rd in Newland, we have concluded that Omni-Tek is NOT involved in the funding that Mr. Phillip Ross provided from his personal funds.

Independant investigators which we will not name here, as their research may be considered illegal by Omni-Tek law authorities discovered that the funds transfered to the Newland City Council were indeed from Mr. Ross's private bank account.

Further investigation shows that the current amount in the CEO's personal account is directly from his monthly salary and has not changed for the last 10 years, and that the amount transfered to the NCC has not been replaced or refunded by Omni-Tek.

Furthermore a few internal memos within Omni-Admin between Department Directors and their administrative personnel calling for an emergency meeting to meet with Mr. Ross and asking to reconsider his decision gives the impression that Omni-Admin was not aware or prepared for Mr. Ross's generous offer to the NCC.

This does not mean that perhaps Mr. Ross doesn't have it's own agenda, but it does clarify that Omni-Tek is not behind the funding, and that the corporation did not have any knowledge previous to his action.

We will however continue to watch Mr. Ross and Omni-Tek, as well as the other possible threats to the clans.

Long Live the Fighters!

[____________Talonarr]

Originally posted by Blackpetal


I like the cut of your jib, Talonarr. I'm glad to see that there are others out there who know the horrible evil at our doorstep...

-Petal

Thank you. While I may be a staunch opponent of corporate oppression, some things must be placed in context. If we can so easily open a gateway to another dimension, who's to say that it can't work the other way around?

I'm concerned that we as Rubi-Kans may be missing a bigger picture. The rest of the galaxy has left us alone in our squabbles for now, but what would happen if that changed? What if something comes that cares not about Omni or Clan, but is purely interested in our complete destruction? Would we be able to set aside our affiliations and deal with it?

I wish I knew the answer. If anyone would be clued in to something like this, it would be Ross. My guess is he knows something's up, and that's why he's making an apparently altruistic move. He wants as many allies as he can get for the coming storm.