Misplaced Pages

Revision as of 05:36, 31 July 2008

Welcome to my talk page. Please sign and date your entries by inserting ~~~~ at the end. I'll reply here if you post here.
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Interested in potentially featurable images? Help improve existing material from the Misplaced Pages/Commons archives at User:Durova/Landmark images. Durova 18:53, 20 December 2007 (UTC)

Israeli-Palestinian conflict disclaimer Yes, I'm a member of Misplaced Pages:WikiProject Israel Palestine Collaboration and mentor to Jaakobou. That doesn't mean I'm an expert in the content dispute. Roughly I've got as much knowledge of those issues as a well-informed Jerusalem resident would have of U.S.-Mexico border relations. Well-informed by Jerusalem standards isn't the same thing as knowing this week's border crossing waits along la frontera, and vice versa. Durova 18:59, 28 January 2008 (UTC)

Trivial pursuit newly posted to my blog.

My edit count, fun but meaningless. I've probably racked up more edits sorting popular song stubs than contributing dozens of featured pictures. Durova 02:15, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

regarding this comment you made at AN

That's Pinot noir socialist, if you have any real taste in wines. And Napa Valley is far too crass and commercial. Come, dear. Let's brush the dust off the leather seats in the Range Rover and do some tastings along the Russian River. And bring the Sierra Club manual so we can choose a good stroll; did you get the Bose stereo fixed like I asked? ;) DurovaCharge! 11:00, 27 June 2008 (UTC)

• I spit my coffee I laughed so hard. Since I live 30 mins from Napa, and 90 mins from the Russian River....--Rocksanddirt (talk) 16:42, 27 June 2008 (UTC)
  • Teehee, thanks. :) Durova 17:04, 27 June 2008 (UTC)

A Difficult Word On Your User Page

I know I'm just a newcomer and you're some kind of WIKI-Guru, but maybe this will be helpful. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 24.36.74.15 (talk) 02:04, 28 June 2008 (UTC)

She is not only a wiki guru, but the press dubbed her an "uber admin". However, I think that the project needs her featured content contributions at least as much as it needs her admin skills.--Filll (talk | wpc) 13:15, 11 July 2008 (UTC)

What in heck is an uber admin? I kept looking for the uber tab on my screen and never found it. Durova 17:13, 11 July 2008 (UTC)

Please revisit request for improvement

Hi Durova, please revisit your Dino snack request on Graphics Lab and tell us if this is resolved. JFK also doesn't seem to be going anywhere without your input. Dhatfield (talk) 12:11, 28 June 2008 (UTC)

LMAO

I was going to create a whole new section here blaming you for everything from Global warming to MPB, but after a quick look at your talkpage I haven't got the heart for it, not even as a joke. You need to call "Rent-A-Minion" girl, stat! Or, I suppose in a pinch you could call me. Did you still need a hand collecting stats or something? Doc Tropics 03:51, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Sprays more chlorofluorocarbons in the direction of Antarctica Um, what's that? Why yes! Minions!

Seriously, next priority for the performance review is to track requests for clarification. Basically the same info-gathering technique as the last set of data with a few modifications:

• Check the 15th as well as the final day of the month (clarifications might not remain open as long as regular cases)
• For statistical purposes, record the name of the case (so it's possible to parse how long cases remained closed before requests to clarify opened)

I have a hunch that the percentage of cases leading to requests for clarification has been rising. There could be several explanations for such a trend, if it's actually happening. Let's see whether this is on the track of something or not. Best regards, Durova 08:21, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Ok, I'll see what I can do, but right now it's Monday morning (at least for me) and RL is demanding some attention, so I'll only be able to work on it in bits and pieces. I'm interested in what kind of trend the stats might indicate; it could be useful detail for some of the discussions that will be going forward from here. BTW - great image  : ) Doc Tropics 16:01, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Ty very much. :) Durova 16:04, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Oh my, this is embarrassing. The initial discussion took place quite late last night and now I can't find the relevant section amidst all the pages under discussion, or remember the details of how you gathered and vetted the data. When convenient could you either point me back to it or specify your methodology so I can be sure I'm getting it right? Thanks, and happy editing Doc Tropics 18:27, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

What's embarrassing is that I posted Part 1 on May 29 and haven't done Part 2 yet. For wiki-discussion, see Wikipedia_talk:Requests_for_comment/Arbitration_Committee#Arbitration_Committee_performance_review. Cheers, Durova 18:30, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I made a brief start here; is that what you're looking for? Is there any other info you want captured as I work back? I feel like my use of markup is clumsy so if you have any tips on formatting I'd be happy to hear them.

Also, I just recently realized I should make a disclosure which might be considered relevant: I'm a member of "Wikiproject:Intelligent Design" which has been named before ArbCom recently and described by complainants as a "Cabal". So far as I know I've never been mentioned by name in any proceedings but someone could conceivably call my objectivity into question based solely on my membership in the project. Furthermore, I've worked with Orangemarlin on a number of articles in the past couple years and regard his contributions quite highly (I consider him a friend although we've never met); since he is very near the center of current events, it's another factor that could be cited if someone were to question my impartiality. I'm mentioning this because I want to give you the opportunity to say "Thanks, but no thanks" to my participation if you feel it might somehow taint the results of your efforts. I'm more than willing to help in your attempt to gather, make available, and analyze statistical data, but I leave it entirely up to you. Doc Tropics 20:40, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

As long as this is strictly quantitative data collection, with links/diffs available for verification, I don't see how anyone could object. And actually to demonstrate impartiality it would be great if we had a third collaborator from Misplaced Pages Review. (If any are lurking, I'm easy to contact). Best, Durova 20:46, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Grrr. I'm apparently an idiot. For some reason, the page I've been reviewing ends on 5/11/08 and I can't find a record that goes further back. I know I'm missing something very obvious and simple, but what? Doc Tropics 15:48, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Well, the requests for clarification aren't listed in the open tasks template. So I suggest just working from historical versions of the RFAR page itself. Also cut/paste the URL for each historical page revision you work from, so that your work is easy to verify. Durova 16:45, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

yup, I knew I was gonna feel like a moron once you explained it. back on track now. Doc Tropics 19:11, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Aw, I'm just so glad for the help. There are so many nested templates on that page that it does get confusing. Maybe that's why nobody has tracked this before now. Cheers, Durova 18:40, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Stonemasonry1.jpg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on July 3, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-07-03. howcheng {chat} 04:38, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 16:02, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Triple crown just about cleared..

OK, got out the broom and dusted off some stuff.. :) Cheers, Casliber (talk · contribs) 05:38, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

		Misplaced Pages Motivation Award
		This is for the Triple Crown idea, which has motivated and united all sorts of users in the goal of article creation. Well Done. Cheers, Casliber (talk · contribs) 06:04, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 07:50, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

RFC

Hi, I strongly request that you make such a statement in user space, if possible. There's a real danger that rehashing individual grievances within the RFC would fracture the process and undo any chance of reform. With respect, Durova 17:36, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I had a three year experience with arbcom. I think I have an idea on what is broken. I do not intend to rant, there is plenty of that. -- Cat 18:39, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

You have three years; I have two and a half. We've both seen where the bodies are buried (I could probably even find Jimmy Hoffa by now). Please be very judicious about the direction you take this. Hope you see and respect this. Best, Durova 18:48, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I hope you'll support my decision to move material to talk. Durova 20:29, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Hi, do you think you can move it back, trim if you have to but that post belongs to the actual original page. Feel free to modify it. RFC talk pages are generally used to discuss material related to the actual RFC page and not related to the actual topic discussed on the RFC page. Much like noticeboard talk pages. -- Cat 11:06, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Now that I see who Jenny is, the comments make so much more sense. And can be taken at the usual value I put to his comments (less than I probably should). --Rocksanddirt (talk) 19:59, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

I've been inches from starting a noticeboard thread for disruption surrounding his participation at this RFC. It's taken several shapes and had been going on for days. Durova 20:04, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

You're not alone in that assessment, actually... though I would hope we can avoid an RFC on the RFC? Best, UltraExactZZ ~ Evidence 20:16, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Just an ANI, please. :) Durova 20:25, 30 June 2008 (UTC)

Dinosnack good to go

I was rather hoping that would be the caption :) Thanks Durova. Dhatfield (talk) 08:34, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

I so want to, but keep it encyclopedic y'know. :) Durova 08:35, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Block issue

Might make more sense in view of the WP:AE thread covering the IRC remedies. The comment about you writing FT2's statement was unrelated to the block. Avruch 22:06, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for the heads up. I'm just starting to catch up with this. Durova 22:17, 1 July 2008 (UTC)

Ummm

Regarding this statement, you are aware, aren't you, that Giano is currently blocked and can't retract or revise anything anyplace except on his talk page? GRBerry 00:23, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Yes; it occurred on his talk page. Durova 00:41, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Commons image

Could you look at this image. Notice the author. I am concerned that the entire article Buddhism and Christianity may be a mass of WP:OR and WP:FRINGE. Jehochman 09:36, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Maps need sources even if they're self-made. Please ask the uploader to provide his sources. Durova 09:56, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

It's PHG. He's topic banned. Jehochman 10:18, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

I realize that. As a Commons admin, I can intervene regarding the image but not the en:wiki topic ban. Please ask him to supply his sources. If he refuses to do so in an adequate way I can address the Commons side of this problem. Thank you, Durova 18:48, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Are you still mentoring Jaakobou?

I've only come across him a couple of times in the last few months, but I just happened to look in on an article I helped build up a couple of months ago along with its primary author, before it was put into the real Wiki world. The article - Reactions to the September 11, 2001 attacks - was created in a bid to have a broader article recording the reactions around the world to the 9/11 attacks (ie expressions of support, sympathy etc as well as less savoury reactions). I noticed the introduction had changed quite a bit since I last looked at it, and currently was sitting there with some pretty awkward phrasing. I noted this and other points on the talk page and then copy edited the lead to improve the language and grammar, and used a small part of a previous version in doing that (I made some other edits as well). When I realised that it was Jaakobou who had actually made some of the changes I was working on (he'd made them over a day before I came to the page again as it happens), I noticed he was also canvassing for support in a bid to get the whole article merged. I then asked him on his talk page for more details about why he wanted to do that, and what he was actually proposing in respect of other related articles. As you may recall he's been very active in opposing mergers and deletions of related 9/11 articles, so it just seemed a bit pointy and as if he wants to keep "his" articles, but remove any that have been put together by others. Anyway that's the background ...

Jaakobou then began a mini-edit war over the changes to the introduction, performing a wholesale revert of my tidy up while accusing me of adding "junk" to the article. He then also accused me of stalking him. Another user then just appeared out of nowhere on Jaakobou's talk page to accuse me of the same thing, wrongly claiming I'd never edited "either page" before. On this occasion at least Jaakobou appears to be back to his old habits of taking ownership of articles and making unfounded accusations of stalking against any editor who presumes to question or amend his edits even on just one page. He also threatened me with 3RR sanctions if me or "any of my friends" reverted him, such that we're also back to the old unfounded tag team editing accusations. I find the latter accusation especially galling as Jaakobou is someone with a long history of off-wiki canvassing and contact, whereas I am not. The problem is that I'm not willing to be pushed way from making non-controversial edits by this sort of belligerent attitude and by unsubstantiated accusations - so this kind of conflict is likely to flare up again unless he takes a less proprietorial attitude to certain articles and edits. In fact we have come across each other recently on other pages (him following me, as it happened) where his contribution has been as more of a (relatively) disinterested mediator, so it is possible.

As usual I'm not sure what I hope to achieve by bringing this here, and this particular debate seems to have cooled down now anyway, but it's better than being at WP:AE or WP:ANI I guess. --Nickhh (talk) 16:58, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Nice attempt to label my statements on Jaakabou's talk page as "appearing out of nowhere". I've posted on Jaaka's page many times in the past, unlike your mystery edits to the articles in question. Kyaa the Catlord (talk) 17:34, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Why have you followed me here and posted on another user's talk page about this? Anyway, since you have .. actually you had not participated in that particular discussion on Jaakobou's page, or in today's discussions on the talk page of the article at issue, so coming from "nowhere" was a fair comment, especially as you seemed to have done it purely for the purpose of backing up a false allegation against me. I know you two are buddies, which makes it all the more ironic that Jaakobou is back to his "ganging up" accusations against me. For both you and Durova, here's my contributions page from April showing my involvement in both the "Celebrations .. " and the sandbox "Reactions .." articles. And the discussions about starting the "Reactions .. " article in the first place on my talk page can be found here, here and also here (as well as the next section below it). Note as well I only edited that one today out the two articles btw. Jaakobou has edited many articles since our last flare-up, and I'm not sure I've ended up at any of them until now. Going back to one article that you were heavily involved in starting up, and then running into another editor there who you've come across before, is hardly stalking by most normal people's definition. --Nickhh (talk) 18:03, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Not taking the bait, per WP:DENY. Kyaa the Catlord (talk) 18:23, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

"Bait", "vandalism"? What on earth are you talking about? I'm just providing some links and diffs to correct your claims about my alleged "mystery edits" to articles I've supposedly never been to before. It seems that you're the one prodding and trying to provoke while rather pointlessly stalking me around other users' talk pages ... --Nickhh (talk) 18:32, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Hi Nick, yes I'm still mentoring Jaakobou. With regard to this particular article I ask you to consult with his other mentor, Avi. As you may be aware, I avoid 9/11 topics because my family was nearly killed in that disaster. Thank you for expressing your concerns; I hope you respect where I'm coming from here. Best regards, Durova 18:45, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Sorry, I was aware of the background but wasn't sure how it would impact on the mentorship in this case. I'll link this exchange to Avi's. As in the past, I'm not really sure what I'm asking for but it's just frustrating when what's for the most part a fairly simple copy edit becomes the cause of reams of talk page argument and wild accusations against me. I thought that had all stopped. Apologies as well that another user decided to add his two cents worth here, for no particular reason. --Nickhh (talk) 18:54, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Not a problem; you didn't know. I discovered very early in my Wikipedian career that I'm better off steering clear of that one subject. I hope Avi helps you and the whole thing settles down. Best wishes, Durova 19:08, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

The obvious

It's still usually faster to try to find a contact for the author. If it's a recent article, last 5 years, e-mail the contact for any articles, if the scientists isn't a primary contact for the articles. If it's taxonomy, and within the past 10 years, I can probably get you an e-mail address for the scientist. Let me know. I sometimes hesitate to state the obvious, because it is so obvious, but not everyone on Misplaced Pages is used to the same resources, so it can be useful. --Blechnic (talk) 17:51, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for the offer. To be candid, what I'm planning to do is to go through a representative sample of Carol's uploads and gather data as I check them: what percentage are obviously valid, what percentage are obviously invalid, and what percentage require a long leap down a rabbit hole. With that I'll report on the number of images reviewed in five or six hours of uninterrupted labor and extrapolate an estimate of the time required to perform a complete audit. Then, unless that research yields a very pleasant surprise compared to what I've encountered so far, I will propose to cut the Gordian knot: mass deletion of all Carol uploads that aren't obviously valid and aren't used in article space. Next, replace as many of the other dubious uploads as possible with non-dubious contributions from other editors. Then decide how many rabbit holes are left and whether it's worth the time and trouble of diving down them. Durova 19:02, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

I think, when you make the edit you could extrapolate how many hours to correct just her new articles? Then double that to include her edits that were not new articles, maybe triple it. Why is she considered such a valuable editor, I don't know, and I have yet to find anything of value in any of her edits. Upon inspection they all fail. I think most of her Dendrosenecio articles will have to be deleted, and I would like to see a bot created that can reduce all of her new articles to references and taxoboxes. I am confused though about this defense of her editorial contributions in the face of piles of evidence indicating almost every article she created is plagiarised at the least, usually from an inapplicable source, and probably false. I keep thinking we have royal flushes on our sides, then find out we're playing low ball. --Blechnic (talk) 19:58, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

My survey will be Commons-only, although I suggest the same methodology to get the en:wiki problem in hand. Durova 20:59, 2 July 2008 (UTC)

I figured--it's just too much work. Let me know whatever your results are. Thanks. --Blechnic (talk) 03:03, 3 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Requests for arbitration/Geogre-William M. Connolley

An Arbitration case in which you commented has been opened, and is located here. Please add any evidence you may wish the Arbitrators to consider to the evidence sub-page, Misplaced Pages:Requests for arbitration/Geogre-William M. Connolley/Evidence. Please submit your evidence within one week, if possible. You may also contribute to the case on the workshop sub-page, Misplaced Pages:Requests for arbitration/Geogre-William M. Connolley/Workshop.

On behalf of the Arbitration Committee, Daniel (talk) 02:09, 3 July 2008 (UTC)

Happy Independence Day!

As you are a nice Wikipedian, I just wanted to wish you a happy Independence Day! And if you are not an American, then have a happy day and a wonderful weekend anyway!  :) Your friend and colleague, --Happy Independence Day! Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 21:37, 4 July 2008 (UTC)

And you as well! :) I'll be uploading something patriotic soon. Perhaps not in time for a 4 July UTC stamp, but before the fireworks begin on my part of the planet (if we wanted to work on European time then we wouldn'ta held that pesky revolution after all...) :) Durova 22:20, 4 July 2008 (UTC)

We just watched the mass balloon lift off and will watch the fireworks at 9:45 PM. Best, --Happy Independence Day! Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 00:16, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

Sounds great! :) Durova 00:26, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

For whatever odd reason they actually took off from our neighborhood this morning (my mother signed a form to allow them to launch from our property). --Happy editing! Sincerely, Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 11:37, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Adm2.jpg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on July 9, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-07-09. howcheng {chat} 00:52, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much. :) That one was a tough restoration. Best, Durova 00:55, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

New and improved Wollstonecraft and Shelley portraits

See our improved portraits for these wonderful writers here. Awadewit (talk) 18:29, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

Gorgeous. :) Durova 18:31, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

The Military history WikiProject Newsletter : Issue XXVIII (June 2008)

The June 2008 issue of the Military history WikiProject newsletter has been published. You may read the newsletter, change the format in which future issues will be delivered to you, or unsubscribe from this notification by following the link. Thank you.
This has been an automated delivery by BrownBot (talk) 18:33, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

Vandalism disillusionment

Dear Durova, I just reverted hoax/nonsense vandalism that has been unnoticed for nearly two months. Anyway, I now wonder how much more of that has been unnoticed for so long or if this is something rare. It concerns me as I know students use this site (I think most would read the removed material and realize it's bull, but still!). --Happy editing! Sincerely, Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 19:16, 5 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for the help. Sometimes that sort of thing slips in for a while. I try to remove it when I find it also. Durova 05:57, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

italicize ship names

See Misplaced Pages:Naming conventions (ships). While it does not explicitly state as such, take a look at almost any ship article here. It is our common practice to do as such. Also, WP:SHIPS has developed specialized templates to aid with the italics and disabigs: {{USS}}, {{HMS}}, {{Sclass}}, and {{warship}}, etc. -MBK₀₀₄ 00:07, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

So why is it our common practice? Durova 00:17, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

I'm not sure, but it's always how ship names have been formatted since I've edited ship pages. If you'd like, you can bring up this question at WT:SHIPS. Perhaps someone else knows. -MBK₀₀₄ 00:21, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

I guess I'll look it up before raising this further. Just going by recollection right now and it does seem oddd. Perhaps I'm mistaken. Durova 00:55, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

WP:ITALICS, clear and long-standing convention. SandyGeorgia (Talk) 00:56, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

All right, Sandy. You prompted me to look it up. Chicago Manual of Style, 15th Edition does have it on page 355. Do you watch my user talk this closely? This is kinda scary. ;) Durova 01:04, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

I have your page watched, and I saw the section heading of interest ... a lot of the sources from the Navy in our featured articles have them italicized as well, so I think we're set. SandyGeorgia (Talk) 01:08, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Heh, moments like this make me think I've been out of the service too long. ty for the helpful hand. Durova 01:13, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

I consulted in shipping once and don't remember the italics either; perhaps we focus on different things on Wiki? SandyGeorgia (Talk) 01:15, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

(outdent) Well, it's odd sometimes how publishing conventions occasionally differ from professional custom within a field. Misplaced Pages's going by the book here so I really can't object. It was just odd to see my own userspace being edited for italics. Here's one more datum to file away in the memory vault. :) Durova 01:41, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates/Ocean currents, 1943

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Ocean currents 1943 (borderless)3.png, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 05:28, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much. :) Durova 05:55, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Commons work

Hi Durova. I'm feeling a bit guilty about not having followed up my promise to look at images on Commons uploaded by CarolSpears. Is the situation in hand or is more needed over there? I would be happy to do other stuff in lieu of that... The other reason I'm feeling guilty about this is that there is at least one other instance where you pointed out that I should do something instead of suggesting others do it. Another AN/ANI thread, I think, but I can't recall it now. Can you remember that one? Carcharoth (talk) 05:59, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Oh, help is definitely needed. The on-wiki events of the last ten days have really cut into that. I've been waiting for an uninterrupted block of time to start a survey and do some number crunching. Guess I'll just have to take that bull by the horns. Durova 06:03, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Well, if you don't mind, I'll dabble in wikisource today (another unfulfilled promise) and then have a look at what is needed on Commons after you have made a start. I also need to upload some pictures at some point as well, so I'll swing by there later in the day, hopefully. Carcharoth (talk) 06:05, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much. :) Durova 06:17, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Jackie Robinson statue in Pasadena

Regarding Talk:Jackie_Robinson#Requested_photograph this request - I've taken several photos of the busts of Jackie and Mack Robinson at City Hall in Pasadena. I would gladly post them, but I'm unclear on the permissibility and proper licensing of original photos of (copyrighted) statues. Such photos are currently not accepted on Commons. Do you have any pointers? Thanks. --Amble (talk) 08:57, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

English Misplaced Pages accepts copyrighted images if the material has a good fair use rationale. Durova 09:01, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Done: Mack Robinson, Jackie Robinson. I haven't worked with fair use images before, so I'll send you a note if any problem (or warning tags) come up. --Amble (talk) 19:57, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Question about image

Hi Durova, could you tell me how to simply find out if an image is a copywrite violation? "This" was marked a while ago as not acceptable for the logo of the site to be on the article but it was not deleted. I just want to remove it if it a violation to have it up but I don't know how to check this kind of information. The website says that it is copy protected. I thought it might be something new I can learn how to do to help out with images on the site. I have read that images in general have too few of editors helping out so I thought I could get my toes wet and start like this. If I like it then I can maybe help out in the areas of images. If you are too busy don't worry, I am never in a rush, I am just trying to figure out a useful area for myself that I can do that has less drama then the recent activities going on in many articles I go to.

On another subject, I just went to look at a photo I had uploaded to the commons that I had shared with you a while back. I saw that a photo I had uploaded with the help of my mentor Delldot has been put up for deletion. An editor said that it is not named properly because it shows ulcerations of the sores (here is the link to what I am babbling about . It is named correctly because I saw a dermatologist to get help with the rash and this is what the doctor called it. In the comments made about this I try to explain this and that the sores are ulcerated do to scratching in my sleep. I have never dealt with this so I am hoping you can help me with it. It also states that it is not properly released so I would also hope you can help me with this too. I am the owner of the picture so what else do I need to do to help keep the photo available? I have noticed that this picture has been used now six times, that's what it says anyways, on different Wiki sites.

I wanted your opinion too, sorry I am being a pain and a pest here, about the P.G. picture. I uploaded one of the pictues . I don't know if you remember all the others I have about this but I have like 6 more pictures of Pyoderma_gangrenosum. I picked this one because of what you said about being clean of outside things like tape and so forth. Do you think I should upload the others too? I have more pictures but until I can get this figured out I don't want to bother anyone loading images if I am doing them incorrectly. It's a waste of time and energy for me and the other editors looking at them. Thanks so much, I hope you have the time to help me figure this all out. I really do want to do it the right way and I am trying. --CrohnieGal 18:20, 6 July 2008 (UTC) Long question. I'll answer in numbered format.

1. Looks like a valid application of fair use to me.
2. I've closed the nomination and kept the image. An argument to rename is not a valid reason for deleting: the nominator should have provided citations and opened a different discussion. And for the record, I do not consider this neutral request for advice as canvassing.
3. Wonderful upload. I suggest you go to the Commons Valuable image program with that: it's for important encyclopedic images that don't meet featured picture requirements. Unfortunately that's 600 pixels on its longest axis and featured pictures need to be a minimum of 1000 pixels. Occasionally voters give a little leeway with that minimum, but not 400 pixels' worth.

With respect, Durova 01:23, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for checking into this for me. I have more comments but I will do it in the format you used for ease of reading.

1. First, I removed the deletion notice, I hope that is okay. The template stated it could be deleted when closed but if I am wrong feel free to revert me.
2. I'm glad you like the picture and I appreciate your asuming good faith in me about it being me in the picture. I wish is wasn't but....
3. I have the photo still on my computer so if it is too big it can be adjusted I suspect. I don't know what you mean or even how you could tell though in your third comment about the size and pixels (?). What would I use to work on adjusting the picture to make it proper size? (I assume that is what you mean by pixels.) I have Adobe & Photo & Image Director.
4. I tried locating the Commons Valuable image and found a bunch of them but not where or how to download there. Can you give me links for this? As you can tell I haven't a clue about this. I appreciate your help and yes you are right, I am not trying to canvass at all to influence the keeping of the photo(s). I am trying to learn how and I know you are real active in imaging and you are one of the best, if not the best when it comes to understanding all of this.
5. The second photo I uploaded about P.G. should I add the other ones I have? There are another five I believe that I have. I just picked the cleanest looking one I had on that one.

Thanks again for you help, I know you are very busy and are taking the time to help me which is very much appreciate. I would like to work more in the imaging area, could you also advice me on where is the best place to start learning how things work there? Thanks again Durova, much appreciated, --CrohnieGal 11:43, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Feminism Task Force Images

Hello Durova! :) Thanks for posting on the FTF page. I'm glad to hear that you'll be hunting some images that relate to the task force. Feel free to sign your name under "Participants" as well. Thanks and happy editing! --Grrrlriot (talk) 21:17, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

You're welcome. There's also an image of Mary Pickford on FPC right now. I do a lot of FPs and it was kind of disturbing to see that 25% of the images in that gallery were my nominations (we ought to spread this out more). I do image restorations on a lot of subjects and would be glad to do more for your project, if you have suitable material. Feel free to drop by stuff for me. Can't guarantee that everything's feature-able, but I'll help as I can. Best, Durova 21:45, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks for the image gallery on the FTF! I really enjoy the pictures. Are the images for use on the feminism task force pages? --Grrrlriot (talk) 22:51, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

They're intended for rotation on your new portal. :) Durova 22:53, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Yay! :) Thanks alot Durova! Now, If I can find out how to add a "featured picture" to the portal. --Grrrlriot (talk) 22:57, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

You could nick some code from the textile arts portal. I created several of those for the featured portal drive. Durova 23:00, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Oh ok. How do I know what text to put with the picture? (like in the Textile Arts Portal) --Grrrlriot (talk) 23:09, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Each of the images is used in article space. Simplest thing to do is to check the captions where they appear and work from that. You're welcome to nick the textile arts portal captions. Durova 23:14, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Ok, I am adding one of your pictures to the portal, right now. Do I credit you, where it says, "credit=Design:"? --Grrrlriot (talk) 23:27, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Um, I only restore these. I'm not the photographer. btw just found a new pic at the Library of Congress. A 1909 photo titled "Here's how a policewoman would look making an arrest". Durova 23:32, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

Ok, I think I figured it out. On the page about the picture I am going to use, It tells a user that took the photograph. I will write his/her username there. Really? That's great! Thanks so much for your help, Durova! Also, Thank you for nominating Cailil for RFA, I think he truly deserves it. I have wondered why he wasn't an administrator here on Misplaced Pages because he sure qualifies for it. --Grrrlriot (talk) 23:41, 6 July 2008 (UTC)

I nicked the code from the Textile Arts Portal, but the code is wrong. See Portal:Feminism/Selected picture archive/July 2008‎, What did I do wrong?

(outdent) You'd need to ask Cirt. He was our code monkey. :) Durova 00:07, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks Durova...for everything! :D I really appreciate the help and images. I will ask Cirt. Happy editing! --Grrrlriot (talk) 00:49, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 00:26, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Cailil fixed it for me. I think I get what I did wrong on it now. --Grrrlriot (talk) 00:51, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Re: Appreciation

Hi Durova!
Thanks a lot for your kind comments - I appreciate the appreciation! :) And I must add that you're doing a great job yourself for the wiki with all those historic restoration jobs! Oh and thanks for the invite too - I might give it a go when I get back to Melb where I'll have a camera/mic (at the moment I'm at home in Swifts Creek on mid semester break). --Fir0002 01:06, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Absolutely. When I told the other NTWW regulars how many FPs you have and what your age is, they were all incredibly impressed. Keep up the good work. All the best, Durova 01:09, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Quotes in sources and WP:COPYVIO on Talk:Gaza beach blast (2006)

Hi Durova,

You asked for my reasoning here. I replied, waited, and implemented the change which prompted a reaction by User:Jaakobou. Could you weigh-in here please?

Cheers and thanks, pedrito - talk - 08.07.2008 08:42

Well, since I'm Jaakobou's mentor I doubt my opinion would really be viewed as definitive. I do recommend you take this for an independent opinion such as Misplaced Pages:Requested_copyright_examinations. Durova 09:13, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Custom Milhist Triple Crown

I was wondering whether you'd consider a Milhist Triple Crown based on DYK/A-Class/FA? As a project, we don't do GA much but do emphasise A-Class. A Triple Crown based on this would be excellent. Is this of any interest to you? --ROGER DAVIES  13:51, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Um, I would be totally interested if you held a drive for GA articles. :) Durova 16:21, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Actually, now that the caffeine is hitting my brain, suggest you run 1 or 2 GA drives: in order to qualify an editor needs to add at least 10 inline citations to an article. So getting up to the threshold shouldn't be hard for a healthy project like Milhist. My concern is to keep the triple crowns resistant to gaming. A-class isn't externally reviewed. So although I trust your integrity completely, some other projects might not be as careful. Durova 17:56, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Curious

if you emailed me, like...very recently? Please let me know if you did here. Cheers - Ncmvocalist (talk) 17:00, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Yes. Durova 17:47, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

OK. Ncmvocalist (talk) 18:54, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

I remember seeing a mention in a notable magazine (The Hindu) a few years back...but I don't really know much beyond that. It's online it seems - here. I doubt that's much help at this point, but if I see something else, I'll be sure to let you know. Ncmvocalist (talk) 19:56, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks very much. Do you know anyone from your project who could do a photograph of leheria? I've been trying to reach Sir Nick, but he hasn't responded. Durova 20:00, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Ah, so there's an alternate spelling! This solves the problem. I didn't want to take the thing live until I had enough sources to hit 1500 characters for DYK. Thanks so much. :) Durova 20:08, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Yup, that put it over the top. If we can get a photo within 5 days that'd be great. Otherwise, thanks for the help. I think this will do it. :) Durova 21:03, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

I don't think I've seen one online, but I'll keep an eye out. ;) Ncmvocalist (talk) 03:15, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Per request on Skype

Ohai. That does it for you? :) Steve Crossin (contact) 17:50, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

rofl, cute. :) Durova 17:57, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Greener Cactus on FP

re. your and my curiosity about this 'new' user, I have posted a good faith message on User_talk:Greener_Cactus so we'll see what answer that brings. Mfield (talk) 23:05, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

Ty very much. :) Durova 23:47, 8 July 2008 (UTC)

See Policy. Greener Cactus (talk) 07:33, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Yes. Durova 07:36, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Commons versus local wikis

Can you remember what other cases there are of local wikis and Commons clashing over copyright status? See this for what prompted the question. Your input there would be appreciated if you have time. Carcharoth (talk) 08:30, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Good question. Although there might be other examples, pre-1923 PD and fair use are the main examples that come to mind. Another clash that comes to mind is the use of Nazi images within the German Misplaced Pages. I remember seeing a bitter debate there because such images are illegal in Germany, but Misplaced Pages's servers are in the United States. That's not exactly a copyright status clash, though. Durova 15:44, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

A link if you please :-)

Hi Durova, I think I found a link to a no-subs req'd version of the Nature article (I don't have access right now, so can't be positive. It looks like the relevant article was "reprinted" in Newswatch India. Anyway, in case you want to add it to your evidence section, the link is here. R. Baley (talk) 18:51, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you for that link. I've added it to my evidence. If you're aware of any other material--pro or con--I'll gladly add it. Durova 19:38, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Re: ArbCom evidence

Are you sure it's really germane to WMC's administrative action to post POV opinions of him? It's pretty obvious to see where these guys are coming from, e.g. (look at the author's credit). I'm not sure how this is illuminating to the present situation, which has diddly-squat to do with global warming. Der Wohltemperierte Fuchs 18:53, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

It is and it isn't. When Weighted Companion Cube's evidence first went up it was extremely brief and I decided to interpret it in good faith. Namely, from the standpoint that it may be worthy of deliberation that William Connolley's Misplaced Pages actions have been discussed in the mainstream press and in an academic report. If anyone would be a case study in how Misplaced Pages treats experts, that person is him, and whatever flaws or advantages that represents are likely to have an influence on other credentialed experts when they decide whether to contribute here. Certainly, if today's National Review piece is worthy of consideration, then both the publication's history of editorial decisions on the subject of global warming and other publications regarding Connolley's Misplaced Pages work are both deserving of attention as context. I present this material with no suggestion as to how the reader should interpret them. Durova 19:35, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

I agree you did. I've just added my view. The NR stuff is recycled tripe, and badly copyedited to boot. I'm doubtful if its relevant. Maybe I should blog in detail about why its tripe; but I doubt anyone not familair with wiki would understand, and anyone who is familiar will know why its junk William M. Connolley (talk) 21:22, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

I'm curious, William, did the reporter contact you for a statement before submitting this story? Have you communicated with him since it ran? Durova 21:24, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

No and no. You mean, Solomon? He is a pro-coal anti-wiki blogger - he isn't a reporter. That wasn't an article, it was an opinion piece William M. Connolley (talk) 21:38, 9 July 2008 (UTC)

Long term problem editor

Durova, some time ago you dealt with an extremely difficult editor (the one plaguing the feminism and Mennonite articles). Are you interested in looking at another case, similar but less intense, that has been happening on Mennonite-related articles for over the past year? If not, just tell me to pass it on to another venue. The details. ✤ JonHarder 15:00, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Best if you passed it along. Thank you very much for the offer. Durova 16:34, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Memphis Blues is now a FS

The sound you nominated for featured sound Image:Victor Military Band-The Memphis Blues.ogg has been promoted. Congratulations! Zginder 2008-07-10T15:39Z (UTC)

Thank you very much. Durova 16:33, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Featured sound candidates/When Johnny Comes Marching Home

A featured sound candidate you nominated, , received a consensus of support, and was promoted. If you have any further audio media of similar quality, please nominate it at WP:FSC as well. Shoemaker's Holiday (talk) 15:53, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Operation Strangle

On 10 July, 2008, Did you know? was updated with a fact from the article Operation Strangle, which you created or substantially expanded. If you know of another interesting fact from a recently created article, then please suggest it on the Did you know? talk page.

--BorgQueen (talk) 17:56, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 21:00, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Twain1909.jpg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on July 16, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-07-16. howcheng {chat} 22:26, 10 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks. :) Durova 00:03, 11 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates/Mary Pickford

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:MaryPickford4.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 03:46, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

She was America's Sweetheart, but she was from Canada.--Filll (talk | wpc) 03:50, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 03:53, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

Starting a list

I am going to keep a list of sources I like at --Filll (talk | wpc) 03:49, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

Leheria

On 12 July, 2008, Did you know? was updated with a fact from the article Leheria, which you created or substantially expanded. If you know of another interesting fact from a recently created article, then please suggest it on the Did you know? talk page.

--BorgQueen (talk) 15:49, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 17:02, 12 July 2008 (UTC)

Since you are an uninvolved admin

I discovered that publication by author whose works are listed under Nazi Propaganda Literature is used on Misplaced Pages to claim facts about Polish-German history. Mainly that German colonists in Poland were native residents rather then from German territory. Since you are uninvolved editor, and I remember you from some arbitration cases, perhaps you would like to comment: --Molobo (talk) 14:07, 13 July 2008 (UTC)

You flatter me too much; I'm just another editor. Went ahead and commented at the thread. Durova 19:09, 13 July 2008 (UTC)

You've been editing for 9 months. That is more than enough time that people edit before becoming admin. Chergles (talk) 15:49, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much, but I come with baggage. Some people will never forgive me. Durova 16:39, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Joan of Arc

As promised: Image:Joan of Arc plaque at Chateau de Blois.jpg. I guess it commemorates the 500th anniversary of either the Siege of Orléans, or her passage through Blois on her way to Orleans (probably both). Possibly there might be some quibble over the 1929 date and freedom of panorama, but I'll leave that up to you to sort. Misplaced Pages should definitely have something on the big anniversaries of such events - there are usually a wealth of exhibitions and ceremonies that can be referenced for that kind of thing, and it would make a nice paragraph in the Legacy section (which should have a summary by the way, not just three links to subsidiary articles). Carcharoth (talk) 17:16, 13 July 2008 (UTC)

We now have Commons:Category:Plaques commemorating Jeanne d'Arc. Carcharoth (talk) 17:27, 13 July 2008 (UTC)

Gorgeous; thank you. Durova 19:09, 13 July 2008 (UTC)

Various featured picture candidacies

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Cheyenne dance4.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 06:44, 14 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Triomphe de Marat4.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 06:44, 14 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Italybombing4.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 06:44, 14 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks again. :) Durova 07:11, 14 July 2008 (UTC)

For evidence of how times change

See Rebecca_of_Sunnybrook_Farm_(1938_film)#Crackly_Grain_Flakes_jingle.--Filll (talk | wpc) 03:47, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

Is it possible this movie is in the public domain? I notice the article puts it in that category.--Filll (talk | wpc) 05:05, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

Highly unlikely, unless the copyright wasn't renewed. That's very rare. Durova 05:11, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

I think it is best to play it safe, so I removed that category.--Filll (talk | wpc) 13:10, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

DYK nom

On 15 July, 2008, Did you know? was updated with a fact from the article Ziegler Polar Expedition, which you recently nominated. If you know of another interesting fact from a recently created article, then please suggest it on the Did you know? talk page.

--Gatoclass (talk) 10:03, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. :) Durova 16:46, 15 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates/Sophie Blanchard

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Blanchardballoon3.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 06:45, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you for the lift! :) Durova 08:15, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Apologies

I've just committed one of my own pet peeves, overposting in the oppose section of an RFA. (I think perhaps you are right, my objectivity is probably lacking). I would like to, if you are agreeable, remove our discussion away from the RFA to the RFA talkpage, out of fairness to the candidate, as it is a distraction to his RFA. I will leave it there if you wish, or remove it if you wish, and I have unwatchlisted the page to help restrain myself from reacting/responding. I apologize for attacking your good faith opinion. Keeper ǀ 76 19:59, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Whatever you wish beyond the original oppose reason; I leave it to your judgement. If he doesn't pass this time I'd be honored to collaborate with him toward a featured content conomination. Best wishes, Durova 20:11, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks Durova (and of course, I would not even dream of removing anyone's oppose reason, egads :-) Keeper ǀ 76 20:16, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Actually, I'm coming off as quite the ass in that series of posts. I will leave it there for other's to see, it wouldn't be right of me to remove it myself. (again, objectivity...). If you would like it removed, I wouldn't mind, but I won't do it myself. I also apologied to Pete.Hurd and Finalnight, and I'm leaving that RfA with my tail tucked...Keeper ǀ 76 20:26, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

Seriously, please do. Apologies for the tardy reply. I'm trying to keep up a pace of one FPC a day and that leaves me two hours to finish restoring a map of Boston from 1775. Go for it; no hard feelings. Durova 21:33, 16 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Tacoma Narrows Bridge destruction.ogg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on July 20, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-07-20. howcheng {chat} 17:57, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

P.S. Image:AlfredPalmerwelder1.jpg follows on July 21. howcheng {chat} 17:58, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

P.S. 2: Image:Elderlyspinnera.jpg follows that on July 22. howcheng {chat} 18:25, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

P.S. 3: Image:J accuse.jpg follows that on July 23. Four in a row for you! howcheng {chat} 18:39, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Heh, ty very much. :) Best wishes, Durova 23:38, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

These are really well written! I couldn't do better. Wonderful summaries. Cheers, Durova 08:28, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

Five in a row: Image:WWINavyYeoman1.jpg to appear on July 24. howcheng {chat} 23:57, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Hey thanks; is there a record? Durova 03:05, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

I haven't been keeping track, but in my memory, 5 in a row is the longest streak anyone has had. Fir0002 holds the record for most PsOTD in a month with 11 (May 2007). howcheng {chat} 18:06, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

Update

Durova, didn't you say you give some recognition for previously indeffed editors who work on good articles a while back? Anyway, please see this.  :) Happy editing! Sincerely, Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 18:04, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Cool, if you get a DYK and a featured credit to go with that I'll give you the special Valiant Return barnstar. :) See me about maybe conominating the featured credit. Durova 18:36, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

How do I get a DYK? Also, I don't know if it counts for anything, but image I uploaded is on a "portal". See Portal:Video games/Picture/50. --Happy editing! Sincerely, Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles 18:58, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Start a new article of around 300 words (1500 characters) and at least one source and ping me shortly after you create it. :) Durova 20:32, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Equally FWIW

Finalnight has retired, with the proverbial back-breaking straw being the hot mess that was his RfA. I think the offer is a bit too little, a bit too late. And I don't get the sense that Finalnight is the type to do the whole emotional "retire/unretire" thing, based upon his final statement. The project is worse for his leaving, and worse for the mess that RfAs become sometimes. This was one of those times, unfortunately, and the "8.9%" thing, as well as the seeming to question his integrity regarding the GA/FA issue (even if you didn't mean it that way, it's how it came across, at least to me) played no small part. Your offer is noble, but unnecessary, it seems. Regards, S. Dean Jameson 23:28, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

I struck through the 8.9% immediately with apologies, and yes I most certainly do question his integrity regarding the GA thing. It would have been no problem at all if he had stated he was a GA reviewer, but what he did was very different and instead of revise the assertion he tried to substantiate it. His earlier conflicts had nothing to do with me; the moment I learned the RFA had closed I made the feactured collaboration offer to him directly, and as you can see a few threads above on this page I had already mentioned the idea to his nominator a day ago. Durova 23:37, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Wow. You questioned a man's integrity at an RfA. What can one say to that? And now one of the good ones has left. Good luck to you, S. Dean Jameson 23:44, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

He invited it, by his own words. I have only ever opposed at RFA twice. His question answer simply did not align with his edit history. I considered myself obligated to point out the discrepancy, and if he had simply said "I'm very sorry to have created that impression; yes I was a GAC reviewer" I would have switched to support. Durova 23:48, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

From what I can tell, the GA process is very collaborative, with the reviewer making suggestions, and the nominator implementing them. I can very much understand why FN felt a sense of pride in the work he did with those GAs. And I still can't understand how you justified questioning a man's integrity at an RfA. There are very real people on the other side of the computer screen, and what you implied about FN was very hurtful, no matter how often you normally support RfA candidates. S. Dean Jameson 23:55, 17 July 2008 (UTC)

Because no one has ever proposed themselves for a triple crown on that basis. Durova 00:50, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

Okay, then. You've made it clear that you feel that Finalnight lacks integrity. And why? Because "no one has ever proposed themselves for a triple crown on that basis"? I know that you care deeply about this project, and seeing good work done on this project. But can you not see past your own little corner here? You questioned his integrity (who he is as a person) based on the fact that he displayed pride in having helped work toward getting GA status for an article, simply because you hold some kind of standard for what you call a "triple crown"? I really don't even know how to respond to this last bit. What can I say to you to get you to see that you've wounded a person as a person, with your criticism? Nothing on this project (not even your "triple crowns") are worth that. S. Dean Jameson 03:47, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

(outdent) One of the shortcomings of text communication is that it's easy to come away from a conversation with a mistaken impression of another person's intent. Assume good faith is policy and I follow it; I wish you would too. You began this thread by explaining how GA review is done as if I needed to be told; I let that pass without comment because I don't wish to seem boastful. The things you've posted afterward require objection. Some people mean they believe a person lacks integrity when they say they question it. I mean no more than it's an open question: as far as I'm able to tell, it's also possible this person meant well and was simply inexperienced in article space. That's why I've offered to collaborate on a featured drive and eventually nominate for a second RFA. There could hardly be a fairer way to oppose a candidacy. When I make a vote at RFA, however, it is the interests of the project that are paramount. On the RFA talk page you seemed to imply that some people vote oppose recreationally--I'm certainly not such a person. My energies go into coaching; I'm as likely to nominate as to vote at all. Now the tone of your responses appears to be seeking milquetoast bromides from me about his feelings; I'm not keen on lip service. The first thing every Misplaced Pages administrator needs is a Kevlar flameproof Troll-B-Gon suit and if this fellow really has the right stuff he can weather a little civil criticism. What I am willing to do--and what you rarely see from an RFA opposer--is walk the walk about preparing him for adminship. Is he serious about it? We'll see. Durova 08:12, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

Another lot

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Fultondesign7.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 07:06, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:82northe.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 07:06, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much. :) Durova 07:18, 18 July 2008 (UTC)

An amazing find and beautiful work! Almost makes me regret not going to FPC. Dhatfield (talk) 16:55, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Would you like me to teach you? Durova 10:03, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Flemish School

Durova, you're known as hot with images, what's the score with uploading this 1626 image of Greenwich from the Musuem of london website? Presumably its pd by virtue of age? Cheers. --Joopercoopers (talk) 11:47, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

It's a two dimensional artwork without the frame in the shot. Almost certainly okay, unless a strange clause in British copyright law applies. They have a sweat of the brow provision that can apply to restorations (too bad for me I live in California instead of London). Unless that kicks in, you're looking at PD-OLD. Best, Durova 17:10, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

Groovy, as they say in California! Many thanks. --Joopercoopers (talk) 22:45, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

Groovy? They say that here? I'll, like, have to stop at the mall for an awesome new dictionary on my way back from the acupuncturist and the palm reader. Durova 23:17, 19 July 2008 (UTC)

Please translate, sometimes the two nations divided by a common language really drags man. --Joopercoopers (talk) 01:05, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Valspeak I have a confession to make; I actually won a contest at this when I was fourteen. It was a voice act I put on for no more than two minutes at a time. Any longer than that and people would've wanted to strangle me. Durova 01:34, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

I find myself utterly stoked and simultaneously humbled to discover that wikipedia remains an education, the value of which will be left to subsequent generations to determine. Valspeak! - wait till I tell my mum - called valerie, but really the californianism there must surely be there was a competition to speak it. Boggled, yours --Joopercoopers (talk) 01:41, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

It probably won't be long before my generation seeks landmark status for some of the iconic shopping malls. Sherman Oaks Galleria, for instance, is basically lost to history. It was specifically mentioned in the song "Valley Girl" and featured in films from the period such as Fast Times at Ridgemont High, but after damage from the 1992 Northridge earthquake the establishment went into economic decline until a late 1990s attempt at revival gutted and rebuilt the structure. So that particular monument to vapid adolescent consumerism is no longer. The last time I was in Sherman Oaks, the miniature golf course down the street remained pretty much unchanged. I figure within ten years vintage leg warmers will be selling for $80 as nostalgia sets in. Have a tubular day, Durova 02:04, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates/Bingham Canyon Mine, 1942

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Bingham Canyon Mine 1942c.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 04:27, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you again. :) Durova 04:38, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Image restoration opportunities

Saw your post at Misplaced Pages talk:WikiProject Military history/Logistics about helping to restore a cache of historic maps, etc. Please count me in. I will only have, however, limited internet access of the next several days, but would love to participate. Thanks. — Bellhalla (talk) 12:45, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

I have limited time, but always willing to learn new applications from an expert--mrg3105 (comms) ♠♥♦♣ 13:02, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Definitely interested, although my access to image processing soft in the next couple of weeks may be intermittent due to a change of continent. Always wanted to learn retouching from a pro. What's the plan? Dhatfield (talk) 17:04, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks very much for your interest. We need three basic things to get going: the collection, image processing software, and communication.

• Most of the image cache is at the map collections division of the Library of Congress. Here's a link to their index. I've also located material at the LoC manuscript division and at a Dutch government website.

  You'll need a .jp2 plugin for your image processing software. These are easy to find and install. Some of the material is in another format that's more of a hassle; I've already researched the workarounds if we want to deal with that. I work in Photoshop CS3 Extended and can show the ropes with any version of Photoshop. If you're on GIMP let me know.

  Skype is a wonderful client for image collaboration. It's free, it handles both text chat and voice interfaces, it's great for transferring files, and it handles conference calls globally. E-mail me via Misplaced Pages for my Skype username.

Best regards! Durova 17:42, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Moved post

I didn't exactly say that you should post on the talk page and moved your post here. Mrg has already replied on the logistics talk page and I will leave this like this. The new structure is intended that people can contact you directly. Wandalstouring (talk) 13:19, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Hi, apologies for being testy. Looks like you were right. Durova 18:02, 20 July 2008 (UTC)

Restoration suggestion

Hi Durova, I just uploaded a high-res version of the famous Boston Massacre engraving that has somehow been overlooked in everyone's scouring of the LoC for worthwhile images. (There's also a second scan there, of what appears to be another copy of the engraving. I'm not sure which I prefer.) Anyways they don't look like there's much dust or anything to take care of, but these would be excellent FP candidates with some minor touchups. Calliopejen1 (talk) 06:22, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Oh dear, that? Good luck with it! The file has two big problems. The missing section on that building might be reconstructed with enough skill, but the low resolution scan really messes up the architectural lines. The LoC doesn't have the best copy of that print. I'd give my eye teeth for a decent digitized file of that. You're welcome to the interim version I toyed around with a few weeks ago; I worked about six hours before giving up. Durova 07:58, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

disappointment

I am disappointed at Cailil. You nominated Cailil and now he doesn't use the tools much. He will not block. OK if he doesn't want to but then unblock someone. I gave him examples of good people to block and good people to unblock. When you were an admin, you didn't go on a frenzy to block but you did use the tools occasionally. Chergles (talk) 18:14, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Hi, I'm not aware of the background for this complaint, so may I offer a few general comments? Cailil is a very careful person. Administrators are volunteers who have limited time, and it may be that his other commitments prevent him from looking into your request with appropriate diligence. I suggest taking the matter to a noticeboard so more people can review it. Best wishes, Durova 18:44, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

This is hilarious. We have an immense group on Misplaced Pages that screams for blood every time someone uses the tools and are frantic to have a much more lenient environment where no one is ever blocked for anything (except, of course, those who do not want a lenient environment). We punish admins badly that we feel block too often, or block the wrong person, or issue "bad blocks". And here is someone who is very cautious, and it generates complaints. Hilarious...--Filll (talk | wpc) 11:58, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Yes, one of the many contradictions of adminship. Become a sysop and people tug on your sleeve to do stuff. User talk is only the beginning--you should see the e-mails! It is physically impossible to keep up, because when you do stuff you get a reputation for getting stuff done and more people come to tug at your sleeve. If you take these requests seriously you don't have much time left for regular editing, and if you don't take these requests seriously the requesters get furious. So if you try to please everyone, eventually you encounter another set of people who are furious with you precisely because you aren't doing enough mainspace work. To the latter group you are power hungry, out of touch, and a faker because--of course--if you really cared about Misplaced Pages you would be writing articles instead of administrating. Durova 12:28, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Better source request for Image:Batonsinister.jpg

Thanks for uploading Image:Batonsinister.jpg. You provided a source, but it is difficult for other users to examine the copyright status of the image because the source is incomplete. Please consider clarifying the exact source so that the copyright status may be checked more easily. It is best to specify the exact web page where you found the image, rather than only giving the source domain or the URL of the image file itself. Please update the image description with a URL that will be more helpful to other users in determining the copyright status.

If you have uploaded other files, consider checking that you have specified their source in a complete manner. You can find a list of files you have uploaded by following this link. If you have any questions please ask them at the Media copyright questions page or me at my talkpage. Thank you. Do you want to opt out of receiving this notice? OsamaK 18:52, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Oh gosh, you're right. That ancient upload? I'll see what I can do when I'm editing from a better machine. Durova 19:17, 21 July 2008 (UTC)

Another bunch

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Dallas skyline 1912c.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 07:46, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Dogcart3.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 07:46, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Boston, 1775bsmall1.png, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 07:46, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

Thanks as always. Too bad the CIA intelligence map didn't get the votes (snaps fingers). ;) Durova 07:50, 22 July 2008 (UTC)

DYK 23/7

On 23 July, 2008, Did you know? was updated with a fact from the article Advice to a Friend on Choosing a Mistress, which you created or substantially expanded. If you know of another interesting fact from a recently created article, then please suggest it on the Did you know? talk page.

weburiedoursecretsinthegarden 09:09, 23 July 2008 (UTC)

• Cool article. The dead link to "Fart Proudly" inspired me to quickly compose an article about that. Want to improve it and share authorship for DYK purposes? - House of Scandal (talk) 14:46, 23 July 2008 (UTC)

• Awesome! You beat me to the secondary sources. Durova 17:04, 23 July 2008 (UTC)

• It's a little short for DYK still. Hope you will lengthen it if you have any interest in doing so. - 03:15, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

• I was checking with someone who knows eighteenth century literature in search of good secondary sources. Durova 03:17, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Russellquiltera.jpg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on July 30, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-07-30. I added this to patchwork quilt where it seems to have the greatest encyclopedic value. howcheng {chat} 18:04, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

That makes nine this month. Two short of the record (but Fir0002's were all his own photos, so that's a little different). howcheng {chat} 18:07, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much. :) Durova 18:19, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

Image:LearnedHand.jpg

I'm just going through the images at Learned Hand prior to putting it up for Peer Review, and then, if all goes well, FAC. You did a brilliant job on cleaning up this picture, I must say, but I have a couple of worries. Here's my thought process. Although the license says that there are no restrictions on publication, a look at the source suggests that there might be a couple of provisos: that the image be used under fair use, and that we comply with their principles on serving originals. Infuriatingly, this photo is dated 1924, which is one year too late to give us totally free use of it, I think. I am not sure what "serving the originals" entails here, but I'm guessing that we wouldn't be allowed to photoshop it. You know more about image use than me, so can I ask you for your opinion? (For the moment, I am going to move the image to the article talk page.) qp10qp (talk) 20:24, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

Bain Collection photographs have been released to the public domain. Look me up if anybody raises a fuss. Durova 20:31, 24 July 2008 (UTC)

Here we go again.

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Dutrieuc.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 04:30, 25 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Andrees Station3.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 04:30, 25 July 2008 (UTC)

lol, thank you again. :) Durova 04:36, 25 July 2008 (UTC)

Advice to a Friend

What a lovely article! Thanks for dropping by the other day--I was away (nowhere near Whoredom, I assure you). Cheers, Chick Bowen 13:59, 25 July 2008 (UTC)

Bleh

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:1783 balloonj.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 10:29, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) - The Girl With The Pearl Earring (1665).jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 10:29, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Yeah, I'm struggling to come up with original section names. :) MER-C 10:29, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

rofl, should I stop? I stayed up late to clean up a vintage photo of Turkish men doing a sword dance. ;) Durova 10:31, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

No, without you the promotion volume sometimes falls to something not worth bothering about. I'll just whack today's here. MER-C 12:24, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Punch - Masculine beauty retouched1.png, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 12:24, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Your Featured picture candidate has been promoted Your nomination for featured picture status, Image:Lotos Club3.jpg, gained a consensus of support, and has been promoted. If you would like to nominate another image, please do so at Misplaced Pages:Featured picture candidates. MER-C 12:24, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Female servicemembers

Hi, Durova! I saw the "chicks with guns" featured picture nomination - I love it! I upload lots of military images at Commons and will keep my eyes open for other candidates. What do you think of Image:USAF female Drill Instructor.jpg? Kelly 15:12, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Cool, ty. Although it's only on picture peer review so far. You're welcome to add others. :) Durova 15:19, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Oops - yeah, you're right. I'll keep my eyes open, though I'll probably ask you for advice. I've only tried one featured picture nomination so far and it didn't do well (Image:PJ HALO drop.jpg) so apparently I don't have a good technical eye. I just know what I like. With respect - Kelly 15:23, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

I conominate with a lot of people. Would you like to get together? I've spotted something historical here. Durova 15:27, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Maybe a little later - my to-do list is getting too long. I'm trying to finish uploading the military photos of Barack Obama's recent overseas trip at Commons, and then there's an article in my sandbox that I just can't seem to force myself to sit down and finish, despite it being there for a month. Once I get done with that, I'll definitely drop you a line - cool? Kelly 15:41, 26 July 2008 (UTC)

Link to response from CBD(eom)

Hello

Hello Durova. I'm sitting her quite bored so thought I would say hello. I know, it sounds quite sad, but there you go, HELLO Jack forbes (talk) 03:04, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Hi, thanks. I've brought you a cold one. :) Durova 03:09, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Puppy says hello too!  :-) KillerChihuahua 03:11, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Cheers, I'll take what I'm offered, but a nice cold Guinness would go down well. Whats yours? Jack forbes (talk) 03:18, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

You havn't said, so its a wee vodka and coke for you. :) Jack forbes (talk) 03:30, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Was being productive puppy! I'll take a guiness, thanks much - no vodka for the pup, wee or no. KillerChihuahua 03:45, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Young's Double Chocolate Stout. :) Durova 06:31, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

The Commissar Vanishes

No, I could not trace the photographer's name. There's a bunch of similar photographs here. Their PD credentials are also suspect, though. --Ghirla 18:44, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you very much for checking. I've also written to a Russian cultural center. Haven't heard a reply yet. Best wishes, Durova 21:38, 27 July 2008 (UTC)

POTD notification

Hi Durova,

Just to let you know that the Featured Picture Image:Tanks of WWI.ogg is due to make an appearance as Picture of the Day on August 1, 2008. If you get a chance, you can check and improve the caption at Template:POTD/2008-08-01. howcheng {chat} 23:48, 28 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you again. :) Durova 00:06, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp

Hello Durova. I supported the FP nomination of the image "Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp". It's a great image.

I've reviewed your contributions in the past, and I'm impressed with your contributions. In fact, I see your name everywhere! Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 09:25, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Well thank you very much! Actually I'll be starting a new featured picture candidate in just a few minutes. Uploading over at Commons atm. :) Best regards, Durova 09:30, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

Couple pictures for you

Ran across these today - thought you might like them. Kelly 21:45, 29 July 2008 (UTC)

The one on the right might do well at Commons FPC, in my opinion. Mostlyharmless (talk) 03:23, 31 July 2008 (UTC)

Interesting suggestion. Durova 03:49, 31 July 2008 (UTC)

Apology

Hello Durova. I would like to apologize for my mistake. You are a well respected editor and I know about you. Misplaced Pages editors know about famous wiki-editors. It was an accident. I will be more careful next time. I joined in October 2007 and I’ve read about your incidences. I’m a little nervous. Please accept my apology. You can removed this message after you read it. Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 03:23, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you. I'm sure you meant well. Best wishes. :) Durova 03:27, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Thank you for not getting angry. Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 03:30, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Can I ask DGG to delete the diff? Masterpiece2000 (talk) 03:31, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

It's already oversighted. Really, I'm not very easy to offend and you obviously intended only posititve things. All's well that ends well. Best regards, Durova 03:50, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Gosh, I was nervous. Thank you for your kind reply. Durova, I've reviewed your contributions in the past and I respect you as an editor. When I was new, I reviewed contributions of lots of editors. I learned a lot by looking at your contributions. I hope everything is alright. Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 04:04, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

:) Durova 04:08, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Porthole or binoculars?

Did you ever get an answer about that? Diliff | (Talk) (Contribs) 15:34, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

They haven't replied to my e-mail. Durova 16:48, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Tut tut - what kind of professionals are you paying your hard earned taxes for? ;-) Of course I'd be interested to know if and when they do reply. Diliff | (Talk) (Contribs) 17:31, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

RFAR and community support

I want the answer there. I'm completely lost about what is going on with this, and I suspect there are many others who are just as lost. Is RFAR supposed to keep the community in the dark? Is RFAR a closed process where people are not allowed to speak? I looked for guidance. There is none. Everyone keeps talking about the community support for Wales' actions. Why not just include a link in response instead of going to my talk page and saying don't ask? What's the big secret here? One link. --Blechnic (talk) 15:47, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

Blechnic, that page has conventions for good reason. If you cooperate, so will I. But if you refuse to, then I have no further comment and you can research the matter yourself. Durova 16:48, 30 July 2008 (UTC)

"Cooperate?" Good god, if I'm not "cooperating," please formally accuse me of such in the correct forum and take me down officially for it. --Blechnic (talk) 05:36, 31 July 2008 (UTC)