User talk:Doug Weller

You can email me from this link but in the interests of Wiki-transparency, please message me on this page unless there are pressing reasons to do otherwise.

Comments which I find to be uncivil, full of vulgarities, flame baiting, or that are excessively rude may be deleted without response. If I choose not to answer, that's my right; don't keep putting it back. I'll just delete and get annoyed at you.

I don't use irc often, but my account name on Libera is DougWeller. ---

2022 and 2023
Archive 62
 * Looks like there's a possibility that my cancer may be curable
 * Best of luck!
 * Surgery went well yesterday
 * Going home today!
 * Cancer update
 * Update on chemotherapy

Archive 63
 * Sorry to hear
 * Next stop liver surgery
 * All the best
 * Best wishes
 * Here's what's happening about my surgery tomorow
 * Things went much much better than I expected
 * I can go home once I can do two flights of stairs
 * Going home late afternoon in time for dinner!
 * We love you Doug!

Archive 64
 * Wishing you well

Archive 65
 * Doug

Chemo successful!
Looks like I'll be around for quite some time still. Chemo held the cancer back and my Oncologist is very pleased. He says I look very well and that the cancers are still very small. So I'll have some time off and then back on chemo. Blood tests every 2 months to check. His guess was that my prognosis is the same as last year, another 18 months is quite possible. Who knows, if things go well, maybe more. In any case I'll see 82, Christmas, and the inauguration of the next American president - two pleasant things at least! Doug Weller talk 16:43, 7 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Very happy news! Hope you and yours have something fun planned. Firefangledfeathers (talk / contribs) 16:45, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Doug, Very pleased to hear that good news. As ever, David, David J Johnson (talk) 16:53, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * This is excellent news. So happy to hear this, Doug. You'll be wanting those Christmas decorations back. Sirfurboy🏄 (talk) 16:57, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * @Sirfurboy You remembered! Nah, we still have a lot. Doug Weller  talk 17:44, 7 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Delighted to hear, Doug. Longevity, in whatever form it is granted us, is a many-splendored thing.  Fowler&amp;fowler  «Talk»  17:01, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * That is great news!  Butler Blog   (talk) 17:07, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Excellent. JoJo Anthrax (talk) 17:09, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Well done on fighting your cancer. NoobThreePointOh (talk) 17:15, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Hooray! Donald Albury 17:32, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * My best wishes for continued improvement over the ongoing treatment...but is looking forward to the inauguration of the next president a bit tongue in cheek? Sweetpool50 (talk) 17:35, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Ha. Three things I'll see, only 2 pleasant. I shudder to think of what could happen with the presidency. Doug Weller  talk 17:43, 7 March 2024 (UTC)


 * That’s fantastic news Doug! Moneytrees🏝️(Talk) 17:35, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Good to hear. All the best, Joshua Jonathan  -  Let's talk!  17:52, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Great news! Congratulations! Johnbod (talk) 17:55, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Awesome news, Doug! --Kansas Bear (talk) 17:57, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * That's wonderful news, Doug!  Eve rgr een Fir  (talk) 18:03, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Great to hear, Doug! ScottishFinnishRadish (talk) 18:05, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Excellent news, Doug! So happy for y'all. Haploidavey (talk) 19:01, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * More than thrilled to hear that, Doug. Godspeed on recovery. The Herald (Benison) (talk) 19:11, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * This is amazing, Doug! Very happy to hear :) Dylan 620  (he/him • talk • edits) 20:10, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Doug, this is great news! I'm so happy to hear it (and let's hope against hope that the election results will be good news too). --Tryptofish (talk) 22:51, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Fantastic news, Doug!-- Ponyo bons mots 22:52, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Yay, congrats!! DanCherek (talk) 23:49, 7 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks for sharing this great news Doug!  Stony Brook  babble 00:01, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Sorry happy to hear your good news. Hope you get to relax and celebrate! Yuchitown (talk) 00:15, 8 March 2024 (UTC)Yuchitown
 * Great news! Carlstak (talk) 00:38, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * That's fantastic, Doug. Really great. Thanks for sharing. --Floquenbeam (talk) 00:40, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Wonderful news ! Hoping for three pleasant things (and many more !). Rsk6400 (talk) 06:34, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * So good to hear! Make the best of life. -- Valjean (talk) ( PING me ) 06:58, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * That's the only news that has brought a glow to my heart today. Forget about setting your sights on catching the outcome of the McDonald vs Bidet rope-the-dope battle on Nov 4, 24, far too shortsighted. Think of the long term, and do us all a favour by hanging in here at least till Nov.4 2028. Best Nishidani (talk) 08:00, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Great news, Doug! I am really glad to hear this. Best wishes for you. God bless! Ekdalian (talk) 08:28, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Doug, I am thrilled by this news. Know you are continuously on my mind. Here's to the wholeness that I hope takes root and blossoms in you, my friend. -- A Rose Wolf  14:57, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Wonderful! Dronebogus (talk) 16:56, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * That's cheered me up enormously. And on International Women's Day, big thanks too, to your wife, who I'm sure is the biggest element in your progress. And don't forget the NHS! (but one thing you can safely ignore, and should, is the US presidential election) --NSH001 (talk) 19:18, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Nice news, Doug! &#45; LuckyLouie (talk) 19:30, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Great news. Congratulations Doug. Dudley Miles (talk) 20:56, 8 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Wonderful news!  Ravensfire  (talk) 21:27, 8 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Congratulations!! Fionaussie (talk) 01:35, 9 March 2024 (UTC)


 * Excellent! Scorpions1325 (talk) 05:55, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * So glad to hear it, Doug! This modest uprising should demonstrate something of your place in our community. BusterD (talk) 13:38, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * This is the news we've been waiting to hear!! You mean so much to this community, Doug. Generalrelative (talk) 15:37, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * This is wonderfully good news! Thank you so much for letting us knoiw. NebY (talk) 15:41, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * So happy to hear the good news! Thanks for keeping us in the loop. ---Steve Quinn (talk) 16:41, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Very glad to hear this excellent news! Congratulations to you, your family and your medical team! Netherzone (talk) 20:46, 10 March 2024 (UTC)
 * Congratulations, Doug! I appreciate everything you do, and I'm glad the treatment is working well for you. —  Newslinger  talk   08:55, 11 March 2024 (UTC)
 * I've been taking a wikibreak for the last year or so and only just saw this - really pleased to hear the good news -Snowded TALK 08:27, 15 April 2024 (UTC)
 * User:Snowded Thanks. It's a relief to see you back. It's worrying when someone vanishes for such a long time. Doug Weller  talk 14:38, 15 April 2024 (UTC)


 * Awwww Doug, just read this about you and want you to know that it is very moving and I wish you all the best. There is a touching poem called Chemotherapy by Julia Darling that you might find a comfort to read, if you don't know it already. Take care x It is nice you have entranced into my life :-) The Nookster (talk) 07:51, 5 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Liked the poem, hadn't seen it before. Doug Weller  talk 10:24, 5 June 2024 (UTC)


 * Wonderful news, Doug. Please do keep us updated. –&#8239;Joe (talk) 08:22, 5 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks but it didn't help as much as hoped, see below. Starting a different chemo, one I had between my 2 ops in 2022. Nasty stuff, weakens me a lot, hurts fingers', no cold drinks or food, pills dangerous to touch, takes quite a while to recover after the 3 months. Luckily I've got my diary from that time. Should have started last week but had to postpone as I need dental work which I can't have during chemo so getting it on the 4th of July, hopefully a good omen for this American! Still, I'll work through it even if I can't get back to where i am now. I hope to be around for at least another year. Doug Weller  talk 09:47, 5 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Ah so sorry, I should read timestamps more carefully. I don't know if I've ever mentioned but I helped look after my dad through his (terminal) cancer and I can well remember how maddeningly up and down it was. I hope you have more good news to hear yet. –&#8239;Joe (talk) 09:58, 5 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Hi Doug, thanks for the correction and update about where you are at. hopefully the 4th of July here in Britain with be a special day too! I will now being thinking of us getting a change of government and, more importantly you and your teeth :-) Take care. Hope the poems helps x The Nookster (talk) 10:12, 5 June 2024 (UTC)

Cancer update - being offered palliative care (chemo), incurable
I'll see an oncologist in a couple of weeks to discuss chemo and to ask about my prognosis. Exercising as much as I can but mainly on my treadmill, 3 times a day for a mile so each time, only about 2mph. Calf muscles are the main problem, doing exercises prescribed by a physiotherapist. But not walking outside as the painful calf and thigh muscles don't go away and as I've twice had to stop and call for a pickup, safer to stay inside, especially with my Parkinson's. I'll soldier on! Doug Weller talk 16:05, 26 January 2023 (UTC) When dealing with my own cancer ordeal, I often resorted to gallows humor. The staff in ICU and ER were especially understanding. I'd say: "I'm going to get "CC & DNR" tattooed on my chest." -- Valjean (talk) (PING me) 17:48, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Sorry to hear that. Feel really bad that you are in this situation. Thinking of you. Andre de Guerin, aka "Conundrum" — Preceding unsigned comment added by 78.111.195.1 (talk) 08:22, 22 November 2023 (UTC)
 * Well, that sucks. I'm sorry to hear that. --Yamla (talk) 16:09, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Keep soldiering on, and know that lots of us here are rooting for you! --Tryptofish (talk) 17:02, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Very sorry to hear this - all best wishes. Johnbod (talk) 17:10, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Oh Doug. I dont have the words. Roxy the dog 17:11, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * God bless Doug, hope you know how many people are blessed to at least call you an internet friend, and Im sure many more offline.  nableezy  - 17:19, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, my best wishes in this journey. I'm not good at dealing with this shit. How I can identify with "the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak." We older dudes feel the pull of destiny, and it ain't pretty. Just make life comfortable. Don't overdo anything, even the exercise (and I'm a PT). Moderation in all things. You don't have to drink the whole bottle of OZV Zinfandel in one sitting, but do enjoy the finer things in life. Good wine, truffles, chocolate, books, movies, whatever. Now is the time to aim for quality, not quantity/longevity. Hang in there brother. Feel free to email me.
 * You will defeat this, Doug. Keeping you in my thoughts. GoodDay (talk) 17:51, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * And from another PT, now long retired; bless you Doug, and Valjean is right. Enjoy what life brings. Haploidavey (talk) 17:56, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Stay strong and hang in there, man. Sending you all the good vibes I can muster (hey, WP:FRINGE or not, it can't hurt, lol).  He  iro  17:59, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Thanks for sharing this, Doug. Sorry to hear that. You're in my thoughts.    Butler Blog   (talk) 18:13, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Sorry DW. Hoping for the best possible news at your next oncologist visit. Firefangledfeathers (talk / contribs) 18:17, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I think it is most important at some point to just enjoy the moment as much as you can and to enjoy life in general as it goes on, without trying to determine how long it will go on for, since that determination is really out of our hands, no? In other words, the life we live, I believe, has to be good and enjoyable for a long as it goes on. That is the most important, in my view. Hoping this may help a bit somehow, I wish you also much strength and courage in the jouney ahead. warshy (¥¥) 18:33, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * What Tryp said. I was down in your ^former neck of the woods just recently for the first time as an adult. Got to see a wild alligator for the first time, along with some other fauna. Miami-Dade is one of the best places in the country for birds - I imagine you can see quite a lot out your window, compared to here in NY? At least here there's a zoo across the street. The only animal it has is a dog, though. It's a pretty shih-tzu. &mdash; Rhododendrites  talk \\ 19:11, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Thanks. But I live in Derbyshire now, having gone to England in 1970 and not returning (except of course for vacations, family visits, etc. When I was a young boy there was a sub-tropical jungle behind the houses across the road, complete with possums, snakes, banyan trees, and of course alligators down by the Miami river. Played there a lot with a boy named John Christmas (whose mother was named Mary).  Doug Weller  talk 08:32, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Was John any relation to Randy Christmas (probably too young to be John's father)? I remember that Randy Christmas had a daughter named Merrie. Donald Albury 15:56, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I don't think so - I've done a search and there's no indication that he was. Doug Weller  talk 16:48, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Ah, sorry, I think I knew that but was thrown off by a userbox. Fewer gators in Derbyshire, I reckon. The banyan trees were incredible. The first one I saw was in Palm Beach, where they are ubiquitous and strangler figs make for ripe metaphor. :) As for Christmas, I know it was pretty uncommon then for women to keep their name when getting married, but Mary Christmas?? Hard no. Lots of names you can't have with that surname: Mary, Wyatt, Eve, Nicholas/Claus, Carol... There's a name I hear on Fox News every December, over and over. Must be a seasonal anchor or something: Theresa Warren-Christmas. &mdash; Rhododendrites  talk \\ 21:14, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I've so appreciated you sharing this part of your life with us. You've been in my thoughts and I'm sad to hear you're talking about palliative care. Whatever decisions you make in the days and weeks ahead, I know they will be ones that have been deeply thought through and which will reflect the way you've lived your life. I'm just glad that we continue to have your presence here onwiki. Best, Barkeep49 (talk) 19:22, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Barkeep49 manages to say clearly what I couldn't figure out how to type. DMacks (talk) 19:25, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Perfectly said.  Eve rgr een Fir  (talk) 20:11, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Absolutely. DeCausa (talk) 20:32, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Barkeep49 has put it very well. Moneytrees below is also absolutely correct - amongst the very best of us. Girth Summit  (blether)  11:52, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers Doug. I appreciate the gift of sharing that yiou are giving each one of us. MarnetteD&#124;Talk 19:28, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Hi Doug Weller! Not much one can say in these situations that hasn't already been said and that hasn't already occurred to you (several Big Bad Words spring readily to mind...). Hopefully it'll be kinda nice to reflect on how many people are thinking of you and that in some way you've made a difference to all the people who know you personally, as well as to the Wikipedia project and to the rest of us who are used to seeing your edits while we're sorta amiably faffing around this neck of the woods. Big Virtual Hug, --Technopat (talk) 19:45, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I cannot think of any better way to express my support than to second what Barkeep49 said. Whether your philosophy on cancer is to fight it, treat it like a chronic degenerative condition, or just embrace not-give-a-fuckism, please know that I and all the others commenting here support you and wish for the best possible outcomes.  Eve rgr een Fir  (talk) 20:15, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, thank you for all the work that you have done for Wikipedia. Thank you for being willing to make tough decisions. Thank you for keeping us informed about your illness. Thanks for being you. Cullen328 (talk) 20:23, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I can't find the words to express how the wonderful support from you all and others now and in the past has meant to me. It will help me sleep well tonight. Ironically the thought of cancer itself rarely affects my sleep, it's only the effect on others and right now wondering how I will be able to die with dignity - at a time I choose and where I choose that costs me sleep at times. In the UK you aren't allowed to die with dignity. So if I can't die at home with my wife I'm thinking that when the time comes - and I am going to try to make that a few years from now - I may be able to take one last holiday with my wife somewhere that I can die with dignity. Doug Weller  talk 21:25, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I'm always glad to see your signature on a talk page or to find your name in a contribution history, however old, and that will carry on as long as I'm editing. Now you're giving us even more reasons to be grateful. I hope you take every holiday you want! Thank you. NebY (talk) 22:50, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * My best wishes. Keep up the good fight. Donald Albury 21:55, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I'm sorry to read this news. I hope you are able to have your wishes. I was always taught to get it in writing and to get a second opinion. I've also heard a lot of interesting things about the new treatments nowadays like CAR-T cells and immunotherapy, IANAD, but it's a shame and saddening to read this even without a lot of details. Anyway, we don't know each other well but I just wanted to say it's always been a pleasure to interact with you on here and I wish you the best, and will fondly remember your work on Wikipedia. Andre🚐 23:29, 26 January 2023 (UTC)


 * Doug, I'm so sorry to hear about this. I'm hoping for the best, and I'm keeping you in my prayers. —  Red-tailed hawk (nest) 01:03, 4 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I'm also very sorry to hear this! Springee (talk) 16:08, 4 February 2023 (UTC)
 * I don't know ya, but I'm very sorry to hear of this. If you do die, tell Stan Lee we miss him, aight? I like Astatine (Talk to me) 21:06, 14 February 2023 (UTC)
 * I'm jealous of all the messages wishing you well. I hope one day I have such a big network of well-meaning people! My best wishes, Thinker78  (talk) 04:47, 25 February 2023 (UTC)
 * So sorry to hear of this Doug. You were one of the first admins to help me out and guide me when I started taking an interest in contributing. In fact you might have been the first admin that I would refer others to if we disagreed or I was unsure what to do. I wish you all the best and keep fighting! GiggsIsLegend (talk) 16:40, 24 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Hey there Doug, I just wanted to say I hope you have a good weekend - you helped me a lot this week, thank you again ^_^ Dyxtan (talk) 22:25, 29 September 2023 (UTC)
 * @Dyxtan no problem, always glad to be of assistance when I can. Doug Weller  talk 06:30, 30 September 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, please research and pick up a copy of the Book, titled "The China Study" I'm sure it'll help you learn more and get a better understanding about our relationship to food and diseases we suffer from. 174.81.53.148 (talk) 15:41, 11 January 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks, but sadly too late. Just got back from chemo, 2 more sessions and I'll find out if it helped. Doug Weller  talk 15:50, 11 January 2024 (UTC)


 * Doug, I meant to wish you a happy new year and am late, and now this news - I still offer the flowers, and please share with your wife. --Gerda Arendt (talk) 21:43, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. That you for your years of work making this project a better place. -- Guerillero  Parlez Moi 22:51, 26 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Best to you Doug, hang on in their man and hope you remember the very high regard you are held to within our community; you have lead by example and have always been encouraging. Ceoil (talk) 00:32, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Best wishes to you and your family, stay strong -- StarryNightSky11   ☎  01:31, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, you are a light to us all. I know your wife is challenged by these developments too. If you can find a place where psilocybin is legal you might find it beneficial. Pragmatic Trials of psilocybin therapy in palliative care are ongoing in California. All the best. Carlstak (talk) 02:25, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * PS: clinical pharmacologist Roland Griffiths has done a lot of research along these lines. Carlstak (talk) 02:43, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I can second the shrooms. We always called them sillycybin. -- Valjean (talk) (PING me) 04:12, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Not legal in the UK! Doug Weller  talk 08:35, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Ah, that's a shame. I would never try to talk you into anything, Doug, but even Texas (!) has legalized psychedelic medical research. Aldous Huxley's wife Laura gave him an injection of LSD-25 at his request as he lay on his death bed. That's how I want to go, but not with an injection. Mushrooms would work, too. Carlstak (talk) 01:43, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I don't know about you, but I don't see any police. ScottishFinnishRadish (talk) 01:58, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * And liberty caps, among the most potent of the psilocybin-containing mushrooms, are plentiful in England. Carlstak (talk) 02:20, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * They are indeed - I remember when one of my stepsons found some! Doug Weller  talk 09:32, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, best wishes from all of us. Johnuniq (talk) 02:29, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Wildflowers for you, friend. Because I don't have the words to express my feelings. Generalrelative (talk) 03:26, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * You've been an inspiration, Doug, and you continue to be one in the way you're facing this. –&#8239;Joe (talk) 06:45, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * That is how I feel too. Thanks Doug for being you. Llll5032 (talk) 08:21, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Echoing everyone above. You're an icon. DatGuyTalkContribs 09:34, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * An icon and an inspiration. Thanks for sharing this with us - it makes me feel that WP is not only a source of information, but also a community. You are surely in my thoughts and prayers. Rsk6400 (talk) 16:53, 27 January 2023 (UTC)


 * The day you get an entry added to the "List of deceased Wikipedians" will be one of the saddest days this website will have seen in a long time. I hope whatever time you have left is free of pain, and that you are able to die with the dignity that you deserve. Thanks for everything you've contributed to Wikipedia over the years. Hemiauchenia (talk) 19:40, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * This is really all I wanted to say to Doug too, but it is expressed by you here in much better form and style. Thank you! warshy (¥¥) 20:18, 27 January 2023 (UTC)


 * Doug, I see that you have about 70 subpages in your userspace, including a number of drafts in various stages. Is there anything in particular you'd like help getting finished and moved to mainspace? BD2412  T 22:55, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Hi Doug. Like everyone else, I am very sorry to hear that. Wikipedia will be a poorer place when you have to go. Dudley Miles (talk) 23:23, 27 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, you're one of the editors I most respect, and seeing how your handling this makes my respect even greater. As has been said above, I hope you enjoy your life without pain and go on your own terms with dignity. ScottishFinnishRadish (talk) 01:01, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, devastating to read this, and I don't know what to say that hasn't already been said so well by other above. I've always found you to be a rock here on Wikipedia, and your tireless and immensely helpful efforts are very much appreciated. Jeppiz (talk) 01:35, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I wish you the best, and hope that you will experience as little pain as possible.  starship .paint  (exalt) 08:06, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I will never forget all the times you gave me support and advices in my previous iteration. Thank you for this and for making WP a better place. I can only wish you all the best. K. Lone-078 (talk) 09:41, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Run through a comprehensive list of expletives, dear Doug, and that will sum up my feelings on seeing this bitter news. I am deeply moved by your references to your wife. As many of us will know from experience, it is what we manage to say to each other, brightly under strain, in reviewing a shared past, that tasks our minds in such terrible situations. I am assured that in planning for what future remains (the months and years will be, ineludibly, seamed with an elegiac tone of finality), you will work to ensure that your spouse will have many more memories to add to those of your rich life together  as you also find time, with your characteristic donative generosity,  to patch with further quilts of tender recall the hard ledges of survival for the other victim here who will, prospectively,  grasp for them if or when they find themselves forced to endure the icy rockface of widowhood.


 * Before posting this, I took a Persian nap (Herodotus), worried it might sound intolerably pompous, intrusive and rhetorical, rather than spontaneous. Two dreams, in one of which you figure as a lone archaeologist probing a dark desert for spoors of a lost past, and the other where you emerge as a Virgilian cicerone as I stumbled along native bushland. On waking, I thought ‘what the fuck’. Hang in there, whatever. As others have noted, remarkable things can crop up in science. There’s always hope.Nishidani (talk) 17:31, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I'm not sure what a Persian nap is, but one thing I really want to give to Wikipedia is a new article (I have written only a handful at most) and have started a draft at User:Doug Weller/Racism in pseudoarchaeology. I'm getting tremendous help from some knowledgeable folks at the Facebook group Fraudulent Archaeology Wall of Shame. I've been putting this off for a long time but all the wonderful people above have made me feel I must get it done. Doug Weller  talk 17:48, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Herodotus 1:133. I can't give you a Perseus link because my main computer crashed weeks ago, and accessing anything from this minor one, antiquated but minimally functional, is nigh impossible. I'll bookmark that project and recommend to others here that they also do so and help where possible.Nishidani (talk) 18:01, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Writing new articles is the most fun part of this project (and one that I don't spend enough time doing). This isn't in my area of subject-matter expertise, but let me be the first to volunteer if you want a second pair of eyes for copyediting, formatting and the like - just let me know. Girth Summit  (blether)  18:27, 28 January 2023 (UTC)


 * So sorry to hear this. Best wishes, and keeping you in my thoughts. Thanks for all you have done and continue to do. DanCherek (talk) 20:56, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I'm sorry Doug. Cancer sucks. ❤️ Sro23 (talk) 21:18, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, what a terrible thing to hear. I'm so sorry. It's said that a man never truly dies until his name is forgotten; yours will live on here in the memory of everyone on this project. With love, &spades;PMC&spades; (talk) 23:29, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I send you my best wishes, confident that you will find the strength, courage and capacity for clear thinking that you will surely need to deal with this, just as you already have in your invaluable contributions here. Best regards, Justlettersandnumbers (talk) 23:45, 28 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Nothing I could say feels adequate. But you will be greatly missed, and I hope you are able to find some measure of happiness in the time you have left. And if there's anything Wikipedia-related that I can help with, don't hesitate to ask. A. Parrot (talk) 18:45, 29 January 2023 (UTC)
 * I've only just heard this news, Doug, and I am deeply sorry. 'Keep buggering on', as Churchill used to say when things were bad. Cheers - SchroCat (talk) 19:43, 29 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Jeez! All any of us can do is praise the work you've done here and (I suspect) elsewhere; and let you know how much it's been appreciated. -- Orange Mike &#124;  Talk  19:49, 29 January 2023 (UTC)
 * You will be in my thoughts and prayers, Doug. I remember that you were one of the first administrators I ever encountered. Scorpions13256 (talk) 22:10, 29 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Only just heard of this. A terrible situation but I know you'll face it with strength. Please take some strength from the rest of us. Reach out to the community if you need anything even if it's just moral support. Canterbury Tail talk 12:19, 30 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I felt the need the last few days to jump on here and get an update from you but the weather had not allowed for this. It has not diminished my thoughts towards you and as I was able to get on I came here to see this. My heart is heavy with the fact you are still suffering so much through pain in your body but I am inspired by your journey at the same time. Your courage, your strength, your tenacity are all indescribable. Your Song is such a beautiful melody and I believe there are lyrics yet to be written that will have such a lasting legacy and be inspirational to so many. That may be a Wikipedia article or perhaps your wisdom passed on to listening ears desiring to grasp on to the depth of knowledge you have accumulated throughout your life. One thing is certain. You have made a lasting impact and you continue to do so with every breath taken. My hope, my morning songs are for many more days of impact here with us. You are incredible as an editor and an amazing human being. You are an integral part of my daily thoughts. I am beyond honored to know you in even this limited capacity. I count it such a blessing to have even the smallest interaction with you. May my words be an encouragement to you like so many others mentioned here and may you find strength to continue "soldiering on" as you put it. I call it the Color Green, surviving, yes, but finding a way to thrive despite the circumstances. Take that and let it feed life into your Song. May the Color Green fill and flood you, my friend. -- A Rose Wolf  15:53, 30 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I have some experience of what you are going through. I have no words, except to say you are in my thoughts and I do hope things go better for you. As ever, David, David J Johnson (talk) 20:32, 30 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Love, peace, and comfort to you, Doug. - CorbieVreccan  ☊ ☼ 20:53, 30 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Sorry to hear this Doug. Best luck anyway, things could be uncurable but still stay for very long. Just do whatever you find comfortable.--Ymblanter (talk) 11:49, 31 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Just saw this, and wanted to add my name to those who will be thinking of you, and hoping for the best. You're most definitely one of the best admins here, and I appreciate your keeping your hand in as much as possible.  Beyond My Ken (talk) 14:04, 31 January 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I'm sorry to hear this. Stay strong, and I hope things go better for you. Tails   Wx  21:31, 1 February 2023 (UTC)
 * I'm so sorry to hear this, Doug. Sending my thoughts and best wishes as ever. ser! (chat to me - see my edits) 04:21, 3 February 2023 (UTC)
 * So sorry to hear this news, Doug. I have no words, but wishing you peace and comfort, and know that you will be in my thoughts. Sirfurboy🏄 (talk) 16:25, 4 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Hi, I realize we've interacted under questionable circumstances, since I don't quite fit in to the culture here. But, you seem alright, and I wish you the best of luck that your circumstance permits (whether that's more years of life, or a painless, dignified end, whatever the fates decree). I should know what it's like to deal with a rare, deadly medical condition -- at least in my case, I've got a cocktail of meds to commute my would-be death sentence. Godspeed! Xcalibur (talk) 04:55, 10 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Thanks. May as much as 1 or 2 years if I am very lucky. Doug Weller  talk 12:20, 11 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Very sad to hear all these! Am only praying to God for some sort of miracle! Take care. Ekdalian (talk) 07:34, 15 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Hang in there, Doug, and more than ever, do what gives you pleasure. I hope some part of that includes your contributions here–pretty sure it is–but take care of number one, regardless. I have benefited enormously from your thoughts and interventions in the past, and selfishly, I hope to do so still, for as long as is feasible. We all have a limited time left, we just don't feel it quite as keenly. Times like this make me think about it, though. You're much in my thoughts. Mathglot (talk) 02:07, 16 February 2023 (UTC)
 * I admire your bravery in your battle against this horrific disease, Mr. Weller. Dronebogus (talk) 06:57, 16 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Mathglot, although I feel that agreeing is often a bit boring: I want to agree with you that we all have limited time left (if you can accept that, you are close to wisdom), and that I, too, have benefitted enormously from Doug's thoughts, interventions and example. Doug, in Cuba people often encourage each other saying "Ánimo !", meaning "Courage !". Rsk6400 (talk) 08:51, 16 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Dear Doug: I am saddened, of course, to hear the news that the cancer has proved incurable. I was hoping you would beat it, but illnesses are not privy to the hopes and wishes of humans from either near or afar. To carry on with equanimity and honesty in the face of life's exigencies is all we can hope for.  That you seem to be doing not just with those qualities, but also creatively.  All too often an off-handed mention of "real life," and usually just "RL," constitutes the sum total of our humanity we allow others to peek into on Wikipedia. All too often editors whose edits have given us a convincing, even inspiring, picture of the living breathing and feeling individuals they are, disappear anonymously from our presence. So, you have already bucked the trend.  As an all too mortal human myself, I will look forward to reading whatever aspects of your journey you choose to share with us.  As you must know, I have looked forward to your timely interventions on various archaeology or history-related pages on Wikipedia.  You may not know that I have silently noted the pithy, no frills, language that has accompanied your interventions.  For both, I offer my thanks and my admiration.   Fowler&amp;fowler  «Talk»  15:54, 16 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Hello Doug, I am very sorry to hear this news. You have done much for this community and site, for which numerous people have shown how important you are to them. I hope that you and your family are doing well in such trying times. I hope things can change and get better. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. 3Kingdoms (talk) 05:02, 18 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Thank you for sharing this, and really sad to hear about it. Wish you a lot of love to share with your loved ones, and faith and peace of mind. May springtime be nice and wonderfull! Joshua Jonathan  - Let's talk!  03:11, 19 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Came here to see if there were any updates, so sad when I realised what it was. Hoping for the best in whatever time remains and that whatever you decide to do comes true. My thoughts are with you and your family. Nil Einne (talk) 18:28, 19 February 2023 (UTC)
 * :( AirshipJungleman29 (talk) 19:00, 19 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I waited way too long to finish writing this. You were one of the first admins I ever ran into on here, and an absolute paragon of what an admin should be. How much you care about this site and the time you've spent on it, has been an absolute blessing. And nothing can ever take that away from you. I am so honored to have been able to see you do that work, and hope many of us around here are able to take it forward. When I see a page that you were "watching over" (e.g. the only person (or one of few) responding to POV edit requests, keeping the article in good condition, etc.) I've been adding it to my watchlist. I hope others will do the same. I'm also so blown away by the poise and grace you're showing here, and in this announcement. Nothing about this is easy, I cannot even imagine how hard it is to think about or to write. And I just hope I can even approach that level of peace or grace if I get this sort of news. Thank you for everything you do around here, and thank you for continuing to be just an all around good guy. — Shibboleth ink  (♔ ♕) 15:46, 21 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I am so saddened to read this. I do hope that whatever may come, you have a strong support network of family and friends to guide you. You and yours are in my thoughts. RickinBaltimore (talk) 15:49, 21 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Sorry to hear what was inflicted you Doug, I hope you spend the rest of your time easy. Noorullah (talk) 08:59, 24 February 2023 (UTC)


 * God bless, Doug. Praying for you. Thank you for being one of the bright lights on Wikipedia. If there is anything we or I can do, let us or me know. Love ya. Softlavender (talk) 02:12, 28 February 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, every single time I've seen your name it has been good. Thank you for your gracious and wise work for Wikipedia. Holding you in the Light, Clayoquot (talk &#124; contribs) 18:07, 1 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, I stand in awe at all the work you've done. Above all, know that we all here care deeply for your wellbeing, and couldn't be any more grateful to have shared this space with you. A big hug to you and your wife as you go through this, and I dearly hope that your departure will be on your own terms, with dignity. But in the meantime, as Mathglot said, please put yourself first. You more than deserve it. DFlhb (talk) 20:10, 1 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Glad to see you are still editing! Appreciate all the work you have done here. Hoping for the best. utcursch &#124; talk 19:51, 8 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Hello Doug. I am so sorry to hear that. Wish you all the bests. Sincerely, Hamid Hassani (talk) 17:18, 2 April 2023 (UTC)
 * Know that you are truly one of the great and good editors here; I have immensely appreciated your contributions. Wish the very best to you and your family,  Huldra (talk) 23:48, 2 April 2023 (UTC)
 * Oh, Doug. You have given me the gift of knowing that this project really is a worthwhile endeavor, since it is clearly in the hands of some of the most incredible people, that I have never actually met in person (that I would have liked to, if at all possible). If it has to be about goodbye, well, then let it be among the very longest, and most painless, goodbyes that have ever occurred to anyone. Your admiring fan,  Stony Brook  babble 21:49, 28 April 2023 (UTC)
 * I've only read this a few days ago along with all the excellent comments. Doug, I too noticed your excellent work on WP long before I finally created my account.  Traces of your contributions seemed to be everywhere.  At a moment when I had more time to dedicate to WP and finally heeded the recommendation of another editor to create an account, I think that you were the first administrator I visited to announce it.  I'm less active here these days, but will never forget the joy of participating a bit with you on this project.  Several comments above express better whatever more I could say.  I'll still emphasise a point several of them make, about the importance of quality living, and the thanks for all that you've done here.  I'm also glad that you allowed us the opportunity to share this: unfortunately there are editors I only could thank after they were gone.  You're also one of those I sometimes check for recent activity and it's always a "yay" moment to see recent contributions.  — Paleo  Neonate  – 13:03, 24 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Just learned, incredibly sorry to hear this. I appreciate you. Bruxton (talk) 16:48, 8 June 2023 (UTC)
 * Stay strong. We are all lucky to have you around, and we're all better for it, too. JoJo Anthrax (talk) 16:37, 11 January 2024 (UTC)

I’m lucky, the 30% chance chemo would work includes me!
As straight continuous chemo would impact my quality of life, I’m having a two month break, will be reassessed then. I want to keep up my 5 km a day on the treadmill! And going out occasionally with my wife on dog walks. Doug Weller talk 17:56, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * And I might see who wins the next US presidential election! If I'm lucky. Doug Weller  talk 18:11, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Best wishes DW!! I hope the chemo goes well and I hope you revel in the walks - even the ones on the treadmill :-) MarnetteD&#124;Talk 18:19, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Doctors have to play safe and give the worst case scenario. If you really want to see who the next president is, you probably will (though the shock might send you into regression!) My wife has leukaemia and found the chemo was so interfering with her quality of life that she gave it up. That was four years ago and she hasn't regretted it, despite the inevitable restriction of her life-style. Enjoy everything you can with gratitude. Sweetpool50 (talk) 18:58, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * I am hoping for continued successes, Doug. You are an amazingly strong person and I appreciate you more every day. You inspire others which is an incredible gift. Keep walking the treadmill and going out with the wife and dog. Keep exploring life and paying attention to all the details around you. That has helped me through many, many difficult days. You are truly a Rainbow of vibrant colors and you leave everyone in awe at the beauty of your LifeSong. Bless you, my friend. -- A Rose Wolf  19:07, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Best of luck Doug. It's great to see that you are keeping strong. Dudley Miles (talk) 19:29, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * 5k a day on the treadmill!  What an inspiration!  My wife complains that I spend far too much time on the couch reading, but really snoozing with the cat.  This is the kick in the pants I need. Thank you  Fowler&amp;fowler  «Talk»  20:30, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Someone has to beat the odds! Otherwise, there wouldn't be any. - Donald Albury 20:32, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Per Donald Albury. That news has made my day, no, my cold rainy Italian spring suddenly lighten with joy. Hang in there, Doug.Nishidani (talk) 20:41, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Great news! Keep going, but don't strain yourself is my advice. All the best, Johnbod (talk) 21:24, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Yes, that's wonderful news! And if I'm lucky, the upcoming election won't send me into fits. --Tryptofish (talk) 21:47, 25 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Great to hear. 5 km a day on the treadmill is impressive, that will is what keeps you going.;-) All the best, Carlstak (talk) 01:34, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * This is mad inspiration for how to persevere through whatever life throws our way.  Stony Brook  babble 02:59, 30 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Your daily 5K is an inspiration! I feel positively lazy in comparison. All good wishes, Softlavender (talk) 03:25, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * good karma Andre<span style="border:2px solid #073642;background:rgb(255,156,0);background:linear-gradient(90deg, rgba(255,156,0,1) 0%, rgba(147,0,255,1) 45%, rgba(4,123,134,1) 87%);">🚐 04:02, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Great to hear this, bonne santé Ymblanter (talk) 20:48, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Checking my watching after a couple of days and this section makes it all worthwhile; an oasis amidst the muck and bramble. Keep up whatever you are doing, Doug! Abecedare (talk) 21:01, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Strength and power to you, Doug! Generalrelative (talk) 21:06, 26 May 2023 (UTC)
 * A clover for you 🍀 – CactiStaccingCrane (talk) 06:14, 27 May 2023 (UTC)
 * I too enjoy my 6/10,000 steps a day. Always thinking of you. Best regards, David, David J Johnson (talk) 16:21, 28 May 2023 (UTC)

Best wishes!  Volunteer Marek  18:18, 28 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Great news indeed! Best wishes, Doug Weller. You will definitely see who wins the next US presidential election! You are an inspiration; in fact, 5km a day inspired me as well! Ekdalian (talk) 06:05, 29 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Over the moon (6138519346) (3).jpg the Moon for you..&#8213; Buster7  &#9742;   05:10, 30 May 2023 (UTC)


 * Doug, you are an inspiration, and perhaps you - and your wife - like the music of our 6 May concert, Misatango and Te Deum, that we found inspiring. I received the link to the YouTube video last night - too tired to share then. I put it there and on my talk page.--Gerda Arendt (talk) 06:41, 31 May 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, assuming that the next US president will be elected in 2028, I really hope that you will see it. Your walking and your editing are an inspiration. Rsk6400 (talk) 10:07, 1 June 2023 (UTC)
 * @Rsk6400 You might like this YouTube video: - lyrics below the video.  Doug Weller  talk 17:28, 8 June 2023 (UTC)
 * user:Rsk6400 not sure why the above didn't work. Doug Weller  talk 17:30, 8 June 2023 (UTC)
 * Another instance of keyboard ruining (see JMF's comment below) ! How did you know that "American Pie" is a favourite of mine ? Rsk6400 (talk) 06:07, 9 June 2023 (UTC)
 * The odds seem pretty good, but I didn't know it was. I see from the article on it that McLean finally explained the song, debunking some popular ideas. Doug Weller  talk 07:41, 9 June 2023 (UTC)
 * I am constantly amazed at what medicine can acheive. But even more amazed by what individuals like you who will fight to bring about the best possible outcomes can do. This is wonderful news, and I wish you the absolute best. - Bilby (talk) 10:24, 1 June 2023 (UTC)
 * Just hearing about this now. Strength and healing go with you - keep kicking cancer's butt. Much love to you - A l is o n  talk 18:20, 14 July 2023 (UTC)
 * That's awesome! I hope you are doing as well as can be!  Eve rgr een Fir  (talk) 18:23, 14 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Thanks all. Still ok, doing 5k a day on my treadmill. Went out to eat with my daughter to a Vietnamese restaurant in Nottingham, lovely soft shelled crab. I’m guessing I’ll be starting chemo again next month. Doug Weller  talk 19:38, 14 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Good to hear, Doug! --Kansas Bear (talk) 20:03, 14 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Good news. Stay positive and strong. --Mann Mann (talk) 03:20, 17 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Hi Doug, this is good news. I've always respected your work as an admin and an editor, and your ability to inject good humour to cool down hot discussions. Best wishes. Mr Serjeant Buzfuz (talk) 22:49, 4 August 2023 (UTC)
 * Best wishes, Doug! Sincerely, sam z. — Preceding unsigned comment added by 2607:FB91:1C78:896C:D14:E4BD:6832:BFD4 (talk) 03:08, 21 September 2023 (UTC)
 * Even tho we haven't had many interactions, your contributions, compassion and commitment have truly served as one of the guiding beacons in helping me become a better editor. :) By the looks of the above signatures, I'm seeing this quiet late but I hope things have gotten better since then! Sending my thoughts and prayers to you and yours and thanks for being a wiki-role model! Best, Dan the Animator 06:14, 27 November 2023 (UTC)
 * User:Dantheanimator that’s very kind. I feel stronger than I have for a long time but the cancer of course continues to grow, so three months of chemo soon. My experience wiyh it last time was good, no problems except hair loss. Doug Weller  talk 18:54, 27 November 2023 (UTC)
 * @Doug Weller I've not been around for a few years and I've come back and am really sad to hear this. You're a good person and I'm devastated that this is what you're dealing with. Wishing you peace and light. Babakathy (talk) 19:54, 25 December 2023 (UTC)
 * @Babakathythanks very much. I feel ok, just started another round of chemo. Nice to hear from you. Doug Weller  talk 21:43, 25 December 2023 (UTC)
 * @Doug WellerStay strong !Try alternative medicine system like ayurveda. Rajeshfadnavis (talk) 06:00, 6 April 2024 (UTC)


 * Doug, it's been almost a year since this update (apart from the small updates in your answers above); how are you doing now? Joshua Jonathan  -  Let's talk!  15:45, 9 April 2024 (UTC)
 * Agh,it's been archived. Another round of chemo ended about 6 weeks ago, stopping the growth. Which of course has started again, so more chemo in a few months. I don't know if the side effects will get worse, butmy prognosis a couple of months ago was 18 months.  I feel ok, week but then I'm old!5 k a day on treadmill.  Doug Weller  talk 16:41, 9 April 2024 (UTC)
 * You are ever in my thoughts. Keep moving. Keep stepping. Keep walking. You are the miracle here Doug and I am thankful to see you on the project every day. Stay strong. Singing a song over you. -- A Rose Wolf  16:51, 9 April 2024 (UTC)
 * I don't even remember how I got to your talk page, but I just want to say I wish you all the best. If I may ask a somewhat morbid question: how do you want Wikipedians to deal with grief when you are no longer with us? House Blaster  (talk · he/him) 17:12, 9 April 2024 (UTC)
 * People have mentioned this comment to me in an unrelated discussion, and I want to come by and say: I am deeply sorry for asking such an inappropriate question. It is a question my family often asks close family members, but I should have recognized that there is a significant difference between asking those you know well and random internet strangers on Wikipedia. It was not my intention to make you feel uncomfortable. There is not a whole lot I can say, so I will leave it at this: my sincere apologies. Best, House Blaster  (talk · he/they) 18:42, 22 June 2024 (UTC)
 * ... And I am back one more time. The "unrelated discussion" was my RfA, and I want to leave a note saying I discussed this at User:HouseBlaster/RfA debrief (see User:HouseBlaster/RfA debrief). I did not say anything negative about you, but as I mentioned you I wanted to leave you a courtesy note. And again: I am deeply sorry for the question. Best, House Blaster  (talk · he/they) 01:16, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @ - Keep fighting no matter what! Eat as clean as possible. Hoping and praying for the best! --Obenritter (talk) 22:12, 14 April 2024 (UTC)
 * @HouseBlaster I'd completely forgotten about this. I'm not sure why I didn't respond to your earlier response. It's an excellent question. I don't have an answer. I do know that if I had a lot of friends living near me, I would want to have a party before I died. I remember seeing a movie where a Shakespearean actress who was dying did this and I thought it was a great idea. But I don't know how to transfer it to Wikipedia. Do you have any suggestions?  Doug Weller  talk 08:35, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * I can tell you why you didn't respond – you are a busy guy :) What if you create a red link article and as a community we try to get it to FA, sort of like a potluck? Different editors can work on different sections of the article, sort of like a barn raising, bringing their own talents. Or perhaps your s have ideas? Best, House Blaster  (talk · he/they) 03:47, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Nice idea, although I can't think of anything I'd want to create. In fact, a bit like your barn raising bit, that's the way Pinxton Castle was created. And it looks as though I, or rather we, found virtually all the sources, I can't even get it to GA, let alone FA. Doug Weller  talk 08:55, 17 July 2024 (UTC)

Editor of the Week
Editor of the Week members have submitted the following nomination for Editor of the Week:
 * It is with great appreciation that the members of the Editor Retention Project bestow the Editor of the Week award to Doug Weller, a scholar, a gentleman and the sort of Wikipedian we all wish we could one day become. One of the truly bright lights and inspirational editors in the WP community, Doug has faced his recent health diagnosis with his usual thoughtfulness and reason. He has made massive contributions over the years, especially as an administrator, helping to make Wikipedia a more trustworthy source by rooting out misinformation and vandalism. We will never be able to measure the strife he has saved us from, because one never notices the strife which never occurs. A perfect example of his commitment to WP is his welcoming of a new editor just a few days ago. Godspeed to you, good sir. A trusted, productive and helpful editor whose talk page is filled with thanks and well wishes from fellow editors. Thank you for the example, the kindness, and the things that we will miss.

You can copy the following text to your user page to display a user box proclaiming your selection as Editor of the Week: Thanks again for your efforts! &#8213; Buster7  &#9742;   21:07, 23 March 2023 (UTC)


 * I’m humbled and literally in tears. This means a lot to me. Without all the support I’m getting from the community I would be struggling. Doug Weller  talk 21:19, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Thank you for your dedicated service and many varied contributions in different roles to Wikipedia. Your work is greatly appreciated. isaacl (talk) 21:29, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Well deserved! Generalrelative (talk) 21:32, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * What a good description of Doug. He's instantly recognisable in that nomination. And thank you Doug. DeCausa (talk) 21:33, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * You're a great asset to the project, Doug. You always have been. Part of your legacy is here, and it's all good. Guy (help! - typo?) 21:50, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, you will always have friends here. Never forget that. <b style="color: teal; font-family: Tahoma">HJ Mitchell</b> &#124; <span style="color: navy; font-family: Times New Roman" title="(Talk page)">Penny for your thoughts? 21:57, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Well deserved! Donald Albury 00:25, 24 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Congratulations! Thinker78  (talk) 03:51, 24 March 2023 (UTC)


 * Much deserved Doug. You have been, and still are, immensely valuable to Wikipedia!--RegentsPark (comment) 22:08, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * No more than your due Doug. Wikipedia is a much better place because of your contribution. Dudley Miles (talk) 22:34, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Very much deserved DW. I could copy paste every word of praise already written here but I'll just second them instead. Best regards Doug. MarnetteD&#124;Talk 22:51, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Hey Doug, You are everywhere and known to many as Editor of the Years! Congratulations and thanks. Johnuniq (talk) 23:07, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Dammit, Johnuniq stole my "Editor of the Year" line by minutes. I type too slow. Anyway, Huzzah, Doug! Floquenbeam (talk) 23:13, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Let's settle on Editor of the Decade, and a strong early contender for Editor of the Century (although given that that won't be awarded for another 77 years, the chances of any of us being around to hand out the gong are rather slim). Girth Summit <sub style="font-family:Segoe print;color:blue;"> (blether)  23:38, 23 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Seconded, Doug. You were an early guiding light for me here at WP over a decade ago now, literally at times keeping me on the Golden Path. You are a rare and glorious soul.  He  iro  00:38, 24 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Agree with Heironymous Rowe. Let it be done. Stay strong, Doug! --Kansas Bear (talk) 01:11, 24 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Congrats, Doug, well deserved. So good to see you carrying on. Carlstak (talk) 01:23, 24 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Hello Doug. It has been a long time since we interacted, and I only just read the news you posted above at the start of the year. I wanted to echo what others have said above (both in this thread and the earlier one). Wishing you all the best. Carcharoth (talk) 19:39, 25 March 2023 (UTC)
 * Doug, you're editor of the millenium, all the best. <small style="border: 1px solid;padding:1px 3px;white-space:nowrap"> nableezy  - 19:45, 25 March 2023 (UTC)


 * We haven't interacted much, but I wanted to add my congratulations and sincere thanks for all the work you have done and continue to do here. Editor of the Years without a doubt. Best wishes, Eddie891 Talk Work 13:24, 26 March 2023 (UTC)


 * Hi Doug, it's been a while since we spoke and I wanted to stop by to congratulate you on your Editor of the Week award. Your work is appreciated! –<b style="font-family:verdana;color:#000">xeno</b><sup style="color:#000">talk 18:20, 27 March 2023 (UTC)


 * Many congratulations Doug, you certainly deserve this award. Regards, as always, David, David J Johnson (talk) 18:40, 27 March 2023 (UTC)

thank you for what you do! - fresh flowers for you and your wife --Gerda Arendt (talk) 21:38, 31 March 2023 (UTC)


 * Agreeing with Dudley Miles' "Wikipedia is a much better place because of your contribution" - you really make a difference! Rsk6400 (talk) 19:50, 2 April 2023 (UTC)
 * Long overdue for a man who for so many of us has set the gold standard for wikipedia volunteers, and indeed for his fellow admins. And thanks to the editor of the week team for summarizing Doug's presence here so eloquently.Nishidani (talk) 08:55, 3 April 2023 (UTC)


 * Cheers, — Paleo Neonate  – 06:16, 27 April 2023 (UTC)
 * I'm sure others were quite deserving of this award at the time they got it but no one is more deserving than you, Doug. Thank you for your continued contributions, your steady presence and your words of wisdom. -- A Rose Wolf  19:34, 14 July 2023 (UTC)
 * Always thinking of you, Doug, at least when my mind's not distracted by blips, such as the defeat of Australia in the Fifth Test. Keep well. We absolutely must be around for next year's Olympics and the November 2024 US elections, at a minimum.Nishidani (talk) 17:04, 1 August 2023 (UTC)
 * @Nishidani Thanks, that’s definitely the plan, we can do it! Doug Weller  talk 18:52, 1 August 2023 (UTC)

Update on cancer
Called in for scan earlier than expected. Seems although the growth isn't much it's concerning. Offered choice between nothing for a few months to give me a better quality of life or chemo soon, the type I had first which causes neuropathy so no cold drinks, ice cream, handling all the frozen food that fills our freezers, etc. Also probably make me weary so I should spend less time on treadmill and last time the last treatment (there are 4, 1 every 3 weeks + steroid pills, knocked me out for a while. I've opted for chemo, bad as it is, just hoping it might add a few more months! Luckily I've got my diary from then which might help me. I'm feeling great right now, stronger than for a long time. But I decided doing the chemo is a good way to fight it. Doug Weller  talk 12:24, 24 May 2024 (UTC)


 * I'm sorry to hear that. I wish you all the best in this difficult time! FortunateSons (talk) 14:40, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Wow Doug, I am really sorry to read this. My best wishes to you! You’re in my thoughts. Zanahary (talk) 22:10, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Thinking of you and wishing you good days ahead  Eve rgr een Fir  (talk) 02:42, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Your productivity and attitude continues to inspire me, Doug. Never give up. Hypnôs (talk) 00:43, 29 May 2024 (UTC)


 * Best wishes for strength for you and your wife! --Gerda Arendt (talk) 15:15, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I am sorry to hear that. Keep fighting, and get the most you can out of your life. Donald Albury 15:53, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * All best wishes with it! Johnbod (talk) 16:11, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * All the best, Doug. Carlstak (talk) 16:58, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Day by day, buddy. Best wishes as always Nishidani (talk) 17:12, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks for the update. I'm glad that you are keeping on fighting it, and I'm glad that you are feeling great. --Tryptofish (talk) 21:29, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I am sorry you have to go back to chemo. I hope it works. Dudley Miles (talk) 22:33, 24 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Stay strong Doug! Thank you for the update. Please keep your hands out of the ice cream, let it melt first before feasting. The very best to you, Netherzone (talk) 00:00, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * @Netherzone Yes, I don't mind melted ice cream if it's good ice cream. I can just drink it or use as a sauce for cake! Doug Weller  talk 13:00, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I found a variety pack of astronaut ice cream a while back for someone who loved the stuff. I'll see if I can send one to you if you tell me where to ship it. :) &mdash; Rhododendrites  <sup style="font-size:80%;">talk \\ 14:59, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks, but it's cheaper to get in the UK than the postage from the US! Doug Weller  talk 15:57, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Wishing you the best as you continue your fight, Doug! If you're feeling strong now, that's good for going into it from a high point.   Butler Blog   (talk) 01:09, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Best wishes Doug. Johnuniq (talk) 03:23, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I'll say now, I appreciate your time on Wikipedia. Do you have any more unfinished pages or projects? —DIYeditor (talk) 03:53, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * There's User:Doug Weller/Pinxton Castle, if you don't already know about that one. --Tryptofish (talk) 22:12, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Best wishes, hope everything goes well. Ymblanter (talk) 12:34, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * My family to your family: we wish you well and the best of days ahead. Thanks for keeping us up on your physical struggle. We are not merely accounts here. BusterD (talk) 14:19, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * $@#% cancer. Stay strong, hoping for the best you.  Ravensfire  (talk) 15:22, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Sorry to hear this, I know how draining chemo can be. Hope for the best, stay strong. -- LCU A ctively D isinterested  «@» °∆t° 15:56, 25 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I wish you the very best in the tough time, Doug. I hope you get well anytime soon. Vanderwaalforces (talk) 10:08, 27 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Doug, always in my thoughts. Stay strong. I have my latest scan on 7 June - always a bit of a worry. As ever, David, David J Johnson (talk) 11:28, 27 May 2024 (UTC)
 * I'm sending you good vibes. Mason (talk) 23:00, 27 May 2024 (UTC)
 * @David J Johnson I wish you all the best David, Please let me know the outcome, by email if you prefer. Doug Weller  talk 07:08, 28 May 2024 (UTC)
 * My best wishes for you. Gråbergs Gråa Sång (talk) 06:40, 28 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Doug, you have always personified for me everything that is good about this place. Your enthusiasm for life is addicting&mdash;an absolute inspiration. I wish you and yours all the joy in the world! You are The Wikipedian.  Stony Brook  babble 04:34, 29 May 2024 (UTC)
 * You're a very strong person, Doug! I'm glad you made this choice but would have completely understood if you'd opted for the easier route. As always, you set a brilliant example for the community. Generalrelative (talk) 18:24, 30 May 2024 (UTC)
 * Hey man, I hope you get better and beat cancer! GamerKiller2347 (talk) 08:00, 1 June 2024 (UTC)
 * I didn’t read this until just now. Yeah, you are an absolute inspiration and a brilliant example for the community. Rsk6400 (talk) 18:41, 3 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Wishing for a good health, Doug — DaxServer (t·m·e·c) 11:51, 10 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Averaging 20 edits a day for the Month of June is a very good sign. Makes me smile. <em style="font-family:Bradley Hand ITC;color:black">Buster Seven  <em style="font-family:Bradley Hand ITC;color:black"> Talk  (UTC) 04:01, 18 June 2024 (UTC)
 * @Buster7 Thanks, you've made me smile!  Doug Weller  talk 06:51, 18 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Best wishes Doug. Hawkeye7   (discuss)  00:00, 19 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Cheers! InedibleHulk (talk) 05:00, 20 June 2024 (UTC)

Possible violation of WP:DR and spirit of WP:AGF at Talk:Jinn
Hi there. I'm part of part of couple of months long going dispute and preparation for RfC at Jinn, (starting around here). At the suggestion of &#32;Bookku   (here), I was wondering if you could take a look at this post by  VenusFeuerFalle and see if you find it in breach of WP:DR spirit of WP:AGF as &#32;Bookku    (our informal dispute facilitator) and myself do. Example:

Many thanks if you can. --Louis P. Boog (talk) 01:30, 25 June 2024 (UTC)


 * It certainly looks like it is. That's all I can say and I'm not getting involved, I'm writer's block at an article I'm writing and need to break out before chemo debilitates. me. Doug Weller  talk 07:05, 25 June 2024 (UTC)
 * What's the article? Anything we can help with? –&#8239;Joe (talk) 12:45, 26 June 2024 (UTC)
 * @Joe Roe I'm not sure, it's User:Doug Weller/Pinxton Castle and I finally got over my writer's block long enough yesterday to start adding sources material. I'll do some more in the next hour I hope but things like the plea below keep getting in my way! Doug Weller  talk 12:48, 26 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Ah well, I can at least see if I can do something about the distractions (a good distraction from the thing I've got writer's block on!) –&#8239;Joe (talk) 12:50, 26 June 2024 (UTC)
 * Not interested? --Louis P. Boog (talk) 16:29, 30 June 2024 (UTC)

For dispute resolution at the article Jinn, as discussion facilitator I put in adequate effort to keep discussion focused on content, still in heat of moment two editors Eagle107 and VenusFeuerFalle (VFF) engaged in edit war - also some micro aggression- subsequently article was admin protected WP:PREFER, talk page discussion came back to track, most RfC inputs would have made VenusFeuerFalle happy, but after joining from break, probably not forgiving/ forgetting earlier state of disagreement with Eagle107, VenusFeuerFalle posted uncalled for emotional response against Eagle107 at the article talk page, instead of sorting out at user talk and ANI, by the way underlying issue was any way getting resolved through RfC. Since June 2 Eagle107 is on edit break.
 * For record and info, I wish to keep this discussion updated soon before it gets archived to note some likely misrepresentation about this discussion. Pl. excuse me for inconvenience if any &#32;Bookku    (talk) 10:11, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Bookku No problem but my new chemo is making things difficult for me, as is the heat. Sorry I can't help. Doug Weller  talk 12:46, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * No I am not looking for specific help at this point of time as already aware you are busy somewhere else, and we can seek help from other admins and appropriate forum if as and when needed.
 * But unfortunately clear confusion of LPB about Joe's communication above seem to have been used to misrepresent LPB by VFF more than once. I propose to put up couple of paragraphs for record with collapse template. Purpose is to make concerned user VFF realize its not a good practice and such practices can be deconstructed. &#32;Bookku    (talk) 13:04, 8 July 2024 (UTC)

Since VFF's emotional wall of text would be distracting from further RfCs planned by LPB with help of WP:DRN moderator and Talk:RfC, so I suggested Louis P. Boog (LPB) to get VFF post reviewed and if possible collapsed from admin since Admin can be approached per WP:DR (helps avoid escalation to ANI), to follow neutrality even in approaching Admin I suggested LPB to find last active admin from WP:ANI. But since taking that course first time LPB got confused by ending up non-admin last ANI participant, then approached Doug Weller here, but DW recused being busy in some 'article'. User:Joe Roe's reply mentioned word 'article' but which article, Jinn or the article Doug Weller working on? not being clear LPB approached User Talk:Joe Roe. It's all good faith confusion. VFF picked up these approaches misrepresenting (or gaffe?) as WP:CANVASS at 1) WP:ANI that too which was report against Eagle107 not LPB 2) Talk:Jinn  The apt adage "Hanlon's razor says: "Do not attribute to malice that which can be adequately explained by confusion." Not expecting any action as of today, but this is just for information record.  &#32;Bookku    (talk) 08:02, 14 July 2024 (UTC)

My article on Pinxton Castle is live now, just made my deadline
I wanted to finish this - at least to the point of moving it to article space, by the time I started my chemo. I've had a lot of help see the talk page), and today with some great help in the writing from User:KJP1 and some proofreading from User:Tryptofish I was able to make it live. It's nearby and I managed to go see it again today. It's not really a castle, and is covered with trees and bushes and a lot and ditches and humps making it hard to navigate unless you find the right way in! I need to add a gallery, maybe some of my photos. Doug Weller  talk 18:49, 3 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Glad to help, and I think it's a fine article. Do you have any interest in taking it to WP:DYK? --Tryptofish (talk) 22:41, 3 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish Thanks for the suggestion. It would be nice. I've never had an article there. But at the moment I can't think of a hook. Doug Weller  talk 06:51, 4 July 2024 (UTC)
 * How about, "Did you know ... that Pinxton Castle had a moat inside its outer wall?" It has been many years since I took an article to DYK, but I'm willing to help with this, if that is OK with you. Donald Albury 16:30, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Wonderful work...... I was not aware of this place I thought it was somewhere completely different. Thank you for educating me. Moxy 🍁 16:38, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * I'm pleased you like it. It's something I've been meaning to do for years and, well, it was time to do it. I've got some good photos I took in April that I want to add and someone has suggested using the metadata to help identify what they are. Doug Weller  talk 16:54, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Donald Albury That would be great. I took it there yesterday.Template talk:Did you know Doug Weller  talk 16:51, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * OK, I see you don't need to review any other nominations. I thought I could help with that, but I had forgotten that quid pro reviews aren't required for the first five nominations from an editor. Now I'm waiting to see it appear. Donald Albury 17:01, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Donald Albury That may be quite a while given the amount waiting. Thanks for offering, much appreciated. Doug Weller  talk 17:09, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * I do hope to be around a bit longer (I will be 81 in three weeks).:) Donald Albury 17:17, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Donald Albury 82 at the end of October and hopefully recovered from the chemo I just started. Doug Weller  talk 17:29, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * WP can certainly benefit from your continued presence. Donald Albury 17:42, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * And yours! Doug Weller  talk 18:22, 8 July 2024 (UTC)
 * I see that the DYK passed with flying colors! (Or, should I say, colours?) That was fast! Congratulations! --Tryptofish (talk) 16:29, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish Thanks. You've been a great help and support. Yes, much faster than I expected! Doug Weller  talk 16:49, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish I can't see it yet. Doug Weller  talk 17:31, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * You won't be able to see it yet, on the Main Page. Here's how that works. The reviewer has passed the nomination, which you can see at Template:Did you know nominations/Pinxton Castle. (It's important to watchlist that template page, because other editors might still want to make changes in the hook. I'm watching it too, by the way.) Next, an admin will promote it, and close the discussion. After that, it gets moved to a "prep" area, where changes can still happen. It will probably sit there for a few days. After that, it gets moved to a "queue", where it might still get changed. (All of that shows up when you watchlist it.) When that queue's turn comes up to be transcluded onto the Main Page, that's when it appears there. --Tryptofish (talk) 17:42, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish Thsnkd.I thought it wss complicated. It’s on one of my watchlist but I’ll set up a separate one for it. Doug Weller  talk 17:51, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * My pleasure. I just realized I said something that I should make clearer. You'll see on your watchlist when it goes to the prep area. After that, you should watchlist the prep area for when it goes to the queue. Then you can un-watch the prep and watch the queue until it goes to the Main page. --Tryptofish (talk) 18:53, 10 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish Thanks. My only involvement in DYK was years ago when a fringe editor attempted to get a highly misleading hook into their DYK. Doug Weller  talk 19:26, 10 July 2024 (UTC)

Dealing with editor at Atlantic slave trade who seems to lack sufficient comprehension of English
Hi Doug, I see you have been corresponding with editor on his talk page. He seems to be confused about what exactly the *Transatlantic* slave trade is (as shown by this revision), vis-à-vis the strictly European slave trade with Africa, which began earlier, initiated by the Portuguese. The very first sentence of the article is "The Atlantic slave trade or transatlantic slave trade". I have made some changes in response to his edit, but the lede still needs more work, and I have to get to work on my real-world project. Would you be able to help keep an eye on the article? Thanks, Carlstak (talk) 12:35, 12 July 2024 (UTC)


 * @Carlstak Will do. My warnings and others are all over their talk page. Doug Weller  talk 13:21, 12 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Hello Doug Weller. Yes, I thought better, Carlstak and you are right. I see your point, and I will try to get better. The other point, my english... well, one more time I beg your pardon for my bad english, I learned the language, but many years have passed... Mcorrlo (talk) 17:04, 12 July 2024 (UTC)


 * Thanks, Doug. I will work on the lede of the article tomorrow to sort things out with it and what the body of the article says, if someone else doesn't do it first. I'm taking the day off, so I'll have the mental energy.;-) The lede was fine before the recent changes, but perhaps it could use some fine-tuning. Mcorrlo added a cite of Paul Butel, a respectable historian who specializes in colonial history, and I want to read what he has to say on this subject. Ideally, of course, the info in the lede doesn't need sources if it is covered in the body with citations. Not to be harsh, but I don't think editors who lack a firm grasp of English should be adding info to English WP. I appreciate the desire to contribute, but if the additions come at the cost of other editors' time and energy to repair them, it's just not worth the investment. I suggest that the editor read reliable Portuguese sources with English translations by academics and compare the two to help improve his comprehension. An English course would help. Carlstak (talk) 01:42, 13 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Hello from Portugal, Carlstak. Sorry, I'm not dumb, I know I don't have a perfect knowledge of the language, but I try to do my best, and in my good old days at an English course, I was one of the best students. Of course I am not getting any younger, and again I am sorry for my "transatlantic confusion";  sometimes I feel tired...  Mcorrlo (talk) 21:11, 13 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Mcorrlo The idea that you are dumb never crossed my mind. I understand feeling tired, you may have noticed my own health issues mentioned above. @Carlstak not sure you've seen this. Doug Weller  talk 08:22, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Ok, thank you for your words. Yes, I noticed your health problems. I sincerely hope you are getting better! Mcorrlo (talk) 08:48, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Thanks, Doug, I did see it. I certainly never thought for a moment that Mcorrlo is dumb, nor have I ever thought that anyone I might perceive as not being fully conversant with the English language is dumb. At my age, I can absolutely sympathize with feeling fatigue; when I woke this morning, I did not want to get up.;-) Doug is facing his cancer treatment with great courage, and I can only imagine what chemotherapy must be like. I've seen your name around, Mcorrlo, but I haven't looked into your editing history. I will only say that if you should encounter any difficulties, please don't hesitate to leave a note on my talk page, and I will do what I can to help as soon as I'm not feeling too tired myself from the labors of the day.;-) All the best, Carlstak (talk) 12:54, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Godd morning Carlstak, and thank you for your reply. I said I am not dumb, but I'm not a wise man either! I know my limitations. I have many many books - but have I read them all? No way! I'm more of a guy who likes to know things. Ever since I started editing on Wikipedia, the need to know what I was talking about has forced me to learn a lot of things I didn't know. We learn until we die. But I still make many mistakes! Mcorrlo (talk) 07:04, 17 July 2024 (UTC)

Promo spam
This guy is doing it again, and his contribs suggest an indef is now in order. <b style="color:red;">E</b><b style="color:blue;">Eng</b> 18:37, 12 July 2024 (UTC)


 * All set. ScottishFinnishRadish (talk) 18:41, 12 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @ScottishFinnishRadish Thanks. Doug Weller  talk 19:19, 12 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Glad to help. ScottishFinnishRadish (talk) 21:28, 12 July 2024 (UTC)

DYK for Pinxton Castle
&spades;PMC&spades; (talk) 00:02, 16 July 2024 (UTC)

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MediaWiki message delivery 01:28, 16 July 2024 (UTC)

My article on Pinxton Castle is a DYK on the Main Page
I've never been much of an article creator, mainly just an editor, but this has been something I've been meaning to do for years but only got around to this year when I realised I didn't have a lot of time to do it. I set my deadline as my first chemotherapy day which worked as an incentive. It's a 10 minute drive from my house and in the past I've visited the site several times - a wooded site next to a major outlet centre, always heavily overgrown but this year in April it had been cleared and I was able to get good photos. Not much to see and it never was actually a castle.

I have had tremendous help writing the article and it was definitely a group effort, see the talk page and article history. I would not have managed to finish it or make it as good an article as it is on my own. Wikipedia may have its problems with some editors, but when good editors get together to work on something it can be a marvelous place and a great community. It's been a vital part of my life since I retired and certainly one of the best things I've ever done. I have only met a very few editors in real life but the friendships I've made here, virtual though they may be, are for me very real. Thank you all. Doug Weller talk 08:17, 16 July 2024 (UTC)


 * Oops, hadn't noticed it's already mentioned in a notification! Doug Weller  talk 08:20, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Congratulations Doug! Johnuniq (talk) 08:23, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Congrats Doug. A nice read and taught me some new words and concepts. And seeing Mortimer Wheeler, the former head of Archaeological Survey of India, digging around in your neck of the woods was an unexpected connection. Cheers. Abecedare (talk) 17:04, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Abecedare Yes, Wheeler was a great surprise. Doug Weller  talk 08:57, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Excellent! The article came together nicely. —DIYeditor (talk) 20:24, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Yay! Congrats on a job well done. The first thing I did on logging in today was look over the Main Page, and when I saw it, I was very pleased indeed. --Tryptofish (talk) 20:27, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Tryptofish You've been a fantastic help, many thanks. Doug Weller  talk 09:18, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * It's been a pleasure! But you did the heavy lifting. --Tryptofish (talk) 20:33, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Congratulations on a job well done, Doug! It's especially nice to see you out and about and exploring the countryside! Generalrelative (talk) 20:36, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * @Generalrelative Last Saturday Helen and I went to a steampunk even at Papplewick Pumping Station. Great fun, some nice photos, especially of a man with a top hat with a moving pumping station on it. I might upload them to Commons. Doug Weller  talk 09:08, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * That sounds like a blast! I hope you do. Generalrelative (talk) 14:46, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Thank you for creating and writing the article on Pinxton Castle, and thank you also to everyone who helped. I'm hoping this is the first of many new articles from you to come, if that's at all possible given your circumstances and all the other things you have going on. One thing that stuck out at me; I've always been curious about the type of fish farming that occurred in the UK, and over the years, I only ran into one good source about the subject.  I had a minor discussion about this subject on Wikipedia many years back, mostly about the history of Hawaiian aquaculture, wondering if there were any shared similarities.  In fact, I think I did figure out at the time (15 years ago?) what kind of fish they were farming in the UK, but I can't recall now.  Any ideas what type of fish might have been used for food at Pinxton Castle? And is it even possible to analyze the sediment to find traces of fossils?  Thanks again. Viriditas (talk) 22:18, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Our page on Fish pond says that carp and pike would be likely, and that's consistent with sources that I've read. I'm not aware of any sources about Pinxton Castle, specifically. --Tryptofish (talk) 22:30, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Oh, I think I found the page: Aquaculture in the United Kingdom: "Historically in the United Kingdom, as in other European nations, the keeping of fish in ponds for use as food dates back centuries, possibly as far as the 13th century. A fish pond was a way of keeping a steady supply of food through the winter, and most Medieval and monastic houses and castles had a fish pond stocked with carp, pike and bream." Viriditas (talk) 01:38, 17 July 2024 (UTC)
 * That's most likely. There is pretty much zero chance of any further investigations, but I do plan to notify the two Parish Councils, the County councils and the local district councils, maybe get some publicity at least.. Doug Weller  talk 09:11, 17 July 2024 (UTC)


 * Thank you and team for a beautiful quality article for the Main page! - Today's story is about a photographer who took iconic pictures, especially View from Williamsburg, Brooklyn, on Manhattan, 9/11, yesterday's was a great mezzo, and on Thursday we watched a sublime ballerina. If that's not enough my talk offers chamber music from two amazing concerts. - Please share flowers and music with your wife! --Gerda Arendt (talk) 15:05, 20 July 2024 (UTC)

Far-left politics in the United Kingdom
Hi, the photo edit you have just reverted was taken in June, 2024. Whether that party is officially open or not is irrelevant. Therefore please re-insert it as it explains that today communist stickers (whichever party it may be) can be seen in downtown Edinburg. Thanks... Ogün Eratalay <sup style="font-family:impact;font-size:x-small;color:black;">message  13:47, 16 July 2024 (UTC)


 * @Ertly Who cares? That might be an old one someone put there as a joke, it could be anything. But it's not significant in any way and its use would imply that that there there is an active RCP party there.  Doug Weller  talk 13:59, 16 July 2024 (UTC)


 * My dear friend, first of all I care. Furthermore if you read the link on the sticker you can see that it is an active initiative to re-build a party. See the active link for the initiative: https://communist.red/join-the-communists-build-the-revolutionary-communist-party/ That proves my point that an active group of communists put out stickers in Edinburgh to call people to join their movement. Therefore this picture belongs to Far-left politics in the UK. Kindly revert your edit please. Thanks... Ogün Eratalay  <sup style="font-family:impact;font-size:x-small;color:black;">message  14:07, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * But, it seems to me that including such an image in Wikipedia is promoting that attempt to rebuild the party without adding anything of value to the encyclopedia. Donald Albury 16:20, 16 July 2024 (UTC)
 * The picture itself does not explain that; without your assertion that it was taken in Edinburgh in June 2024, it lacks significance, but that assertion doesn't satisfy WP:V. As a piece of photojournalism it's contrary to WP:OR. To assert, pictorially or in text, that someone is trying to recreate a party requires WP:RS and must be WP:DUE, and reliance on an image alone is contrary to WP:IMAGEOR. NebY (talk) 16:45, 16 July 2024 (UTC)

Books & Bytes – Issue 63
<span style="font-size: 2em; font-family: Copperplate, 'Copperplate Gothic Light', serif">The Wikipedia Library: Books & Bytes

Issue 63, May – June 2024 <div style="margin-top: 1.5em; border: 3px solid #ae8c55; border-radius: .5em; padding: 1em 1.5em; font-size: 1.2em;"> Read the full newsletter Sent by MediaWiki message delivery on behalf of The Wikipedia Library team --12:15, 18 July 2024 (UTC)
 * One new partner
 * 1Lib1Ref
 * Spotlight: References check

MfD etc.
Is there any chance our new friend isn't a sock? move requests in their first handful of edits and some pretty nuanced deletion flagging. Jumping to MfD a sandbox draft set off all the bells. Curious for your thoughts although I have nothing concrete. Star  Mississippi  16:48, 20 July 2024 (UTC)


 * @Star Mississippi Of. course they could be the new account of a very experienced IP, but the chances of that seem approaching zero. Far more likely they are a sock but I doubt that csn ever be proved unless someone recognises the behaviour. The MfD isn’t random. Doug Weller  talk 17:36, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Hopefully someone will. I see it has also been raised on their Talk, so the eyes may help shake it out. It's exhausting! And 1000% on the last sentence. Unfortunately that subject matter (content, not Valjean to be clear) is fraught with old fights. Star   Mississippi  17:49, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * This is not my first account (note Special:Diff/1225534254). I abandoned my previous account (which was never sanctioned) because I did not want to associate with older comments I had made about Israel-Palestine after the events of late 2023.  I don't intend to say any more other than in private communications with ARBCOM. Walsh90210 (talk) 18:32, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * As far as the MFD: 3000 edits (according to XTools, across 3 misleadingly-named drafts), a multitude of statements that are plausibly BLP violations, and constant claims that discuss the article is "harassment" is beyond the pale. I cannot continue to edit and remain quiet about this. Walsh90210 (talk) 18:43, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * Clean Start aside, if there's a history that cannot be discussed on Wiki, I'd suggest you raise it with ArbComm now. It's not going to get resolved via MfDs and will only devolve from here. Especially in this year & election cycle. Star   Mississippi  18:48, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * I would have been willing to consider withdrawing this if there was agreement that removing material I consider to violate BLP, or commenting to the talk page, would not also be met with accusations of harassment. Clearly that is not the case.  Valjean insists on WP:OWN-ing this material and shouting-down any comment about it.  I will let the process play out without any further involvement from me. Walsh90210 (talk) 19:25, 20 July 2024 (UTC)
 * As long as it's in my userspace, hidden away, I do own it in many ways. We have rules that allow editors to use their userspace in this way, and I have not violated them. The instructions for contacting me are written clearly there at the top: "Email me". If you have an issue with something I have written, as you obviously do, you can contact me by email and I'd happily respond. I do not want to violate any PAG. I just want to be left alone to work in peace. This is a topic that does not need more eyes on it YET. -- Valjean (talk) (PING me) 19:34, 20 July 2024 (UTC)

This is all happening in private userspace where the user has control. You have no right to treat it like an existing article or article talk page. The rules are VERY different. Editors are allowed to work quietly, at their own speed, as they create articles. That's what I'm doing. We are volunteers here.

The content is based on RS, many of the highest quality and reliability, as this has national security implications and is the subject of FBI and Congressional investigations, testimony, and several lawsuits by Trump, which he has lost.

You should read the DYK? items I have added in a note at the top, and reproduce here. They are also for your benefit, as I suspect you are totally unaware of these facts. Myriad RS are behind each one:

Did you know?
 * ... that Trump has known about the rumor since he left Moscow in 2013?
 * ... that the rumor did not start with the Steele dossier?
 * ... that Trump has repeatedly lied about this?
 * ... that before anyone pinpointed the possible time of the alleged incident, Trump lied very specifically about exactly that time?
 * ... that his actions are considered evidence of his consciousness of guilt?
 * ... that Trump's lies were so blatant and egregious that they got the Director of the FBI to change from a pee tape skeptic to a maybe peeliever?
 * ... that many other notable people have strong suspicions that the rumor is true?
 * ... that Trump's own actions cause them to think this way?
 * ... that Trump and others have acted as if the tapes were real and actually exist?
 * ... that Michael Cohen has testified about this to Congress in 2019 and revealed many of these facts?
 * ... that Cohen and a group of allies have worked for many years to track down the tapes and stop this rumor? He was willing to pay a lot of money for the tapes. He testified about this.
 * ... that myriad RS, Congressional investigations, and other very reliable sources have written about this and analyzed it?
 * ... that the fact that the actual tape has not been published means the rumor, true or not, remains unproven?
 * ... that the real issues here are kompromat and national security issues, not Trump's alleged sexual proclivities?

And one more:


 * ... that editors should be allowed, without harassment, to use their userspace to create articles, including potentially controversial ones?

I do not use words lightly, and whenever necessary, I have used words like "alleged", which is what we do with unproven claims and allegations. The rumor has not been misrepresented as proven fact. It's an extremely notable and serious rumor that did not start with the Steele dossier, and Trump has repeatedly lied about it. That increases the notability, as RS have documented it. -- Valjean (talk) (PING me) 19:16, 20 July 2024 (UTC)

TPA block notice
FYI, if you block/unblock using Twinkle, which I think you are, you can uncheck the "Add block template to user talk page" box near the top, if you want to avoid leaving such a notice. Firefangledfeathers (talk / contribs) 22:03, 20 July 2024 (UTC)


 * @Firefangledfeathers Thanks. That would have solved the problem. It's something I know about but haven't seen a use for. Doug Weller  talk 07:10, 21 July 2024 (UTC)

Re appointments for the future
I never was quite convinced about the idea of sticking round for US 4 November, more a prospect of a nightmare than a tickling thrill for future events. But there's one that must definitely go on your busy calendar for must-see stuff to set one's sights on, i.e., the date's now set for the reopening of Notre Dame, brilliantly reconstructed, on 8 December 2024, at 11.15am sharp. The last time I saw it, I didn't revisit but stood round smoking cigarettes as my father-in-law and my dear niece went in to soak up the atmosphere. It was his graduation gift to his favourite niece. Unfortunately, I left the financing of their side of the trip to him and his brother-in-law, who accompanied us as far as Toulon where they had old friends to meet up with. The father-in-law had an agreement that his younger brother would use his credit card to pay for the week in Toulon, and the two would settle up once back in Italy all this before we three skylarked off for Paris on our own, with me acting as guide and interpreter (though my father-in-law was a native French speaker. He refused to speak French because he feared that he would be arrested at 80 for having evaded military service in the French army in the late 30s!!!) Since my impression was that the two brothers were not particularly attentive about money matters, I had taken along several hundred dollars for emergencies just in case, as usual, something stuffed up. Sure enough, when paying the week's hotel bill, the well-heeled brother paid for his room, and when asked by my father-in-law about his credit card, said:'Sorry, can't help you there. I left it back home'. He'd completely forgotten the arrangement made with his elder brother. I paid it, and then had to recalculate how one might negotiate a week in Paris on the smell of an oil rag, without letting on to my father-in-law that his proud gift-trip to his niece would be at risk of having to be aborted for lack of funds. He had a deep sense of honour and responsibility and would have cancelled it had he known the desperate state of our finances, and would have spent his final years apologizing and regretting the balls-up. The short of it is that I took them everywhere, pretending I was flush with the ready and that each night I'd booked a room near theirs (while sleeping on my feet outside), pretended I wasn't hungry at mealtimes (only ordering a thin bowl of onion soup etc), and pretending tourism bored me at major sites I'd already visited many times, when tickets had to be purchased for entry. And so, at Notre Dame, I stood outside, smoking, my only luxury, to tamp down terrible hunger pangs! When we got back, all safe and sound, my sister-in-law took one look at me, guessed I hadn't eaten for a week, and went and cooked me a kilo of pasta, over which I recounted with comic gusto the hidden inside story of what became one of the funniest and most enjoyable trips in my, and my niece's, life. Cheers, pal. Nishidani (talk) 08:38, 21 July 2024 (UTC)


 * @Nishidani You have incredible stories to tell about your life. I'm looking forward to the coverage when it opens. Doug Weller  talk 09:09, 21 July 2024 (UTC)