In my perspective, the PASCAL Network of Excellence manifests the idea of 'connection' in many ways. PASCAL is a system of interconnected people whose exchange goes beyond the field of research alone and has managed to create dynamic working relationships that span across the globe. My relationship with PASCAL began when I was a second year PhD student at the University of Southampton. At my initial introduction to PASCAL, I remember being perplexed as to what PASCAL was about. My first, and also my most memorable, interaction with PASCAL was quick to answer this curiosity. The PASCAL funded Machine Learning Summer School, in 2004, held at the Island of St. Berder in France was all about bringing different levels of expertise within the field together, creating interaction and discussion for the purpose of current and future opportunities and techniques in Machine Learning, and no doubt, any other relevant fields where applicable. The long and intense sessions of studying during the day were followed by equally long and intense sessions of partying in the evening, and sometimes, throughout the night. Concurrent to learning from experts in the field we had formed new networks, some of which would be lasting friendships within and outside of the working relationships. My journey with PASCAL has been intellectually and personally fascinating. I am now a Research Fellow at University College London and consider myself privileged for having been able to partake of the interaction PASCAL has to offer, without which my experience and development would not have been as fruitful or enjoyable. PASCAL has introduced me to some of the most fascinating people in the field and continues to provide a setting for me to work on truly amazing projects. In my mind, the objectives that make PASCAL, like a Phoenix, can never truly end. David R. Hardoon.