User talk:Jack forbes (renamed)/Archive 3

Archive 1

Archive 2

Archive 3

Happy New Year

Happy New Year Jack! All the best to you and your family.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:38, 1 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks guys, and a Happy New Year to you all. Jack forbes (talk) 13:50, 1 January 2010 (UTC)

God fortsättning! --Mais oui! (talk) 17:46, 1 January 2010 (UTC)

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda! and apologies for not getting it in earlier, I took yesterday off! --Snowded ^TALK 07:02, 2 January 2010 (UTC)

Celtic nation

Hi Jack, can you think of any reason that Scotland isn't noted as a Celtic nation on its article (other than on the template at the bottom)? I don't know my way around the Scottish governmental system well enough to find a decent reference. here is a Breton ref. here is a Cornish ref. here is a BBC NI ref. here is an RTE ref. here is a Manx ref and here is a National Museum of Wales ref. Any ideas? Daicaregos (talk) 00:21, 3 January 2010 (UTC)

Well, with a very quick search I came up with this. I'm certain there will be plenty more where that came from and will have a look tomorrow. As for why there is no mention of it, I really couldn't say. If you want to include it in the text I will certainly back you up, Dai. Jack forbes (talk) 00:33, 3 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks. I think it should be. It isn't on the Ireland articles either. Strange. Daicaregos (talk) 00:50, 3 January 2010 (UTC)

Another quick one from the Scottish Government website [1]. Page 5. We will continue to build on our cultural, historical and political links with the Celtic nations. As I said, there won't be a lack of sources. Jack forbes (talk) 00:55, 3 January 2010 (UTC)

Sorry

Hi Jack, I'm sorry my intervention had the opposite effect as was intended. I suspect, however, that he'll be back in a few days when he's had a chance to calm down. I don't have any intention of posting on that talk page again, so it won't be my fault next time! Karanacs (talk) 20:29, 4 January 2010 (UTC)

I think he will be back too. I'm surprised he went over the top the way he did and I apologise for getting you involved. Jack forbes (talk) 20:37, 4 January 2010 (UTC)

Jack1755

Jack appears to be permanently retired, and he's even had his User page deleted. Things really got out of hand yesterday. I wish I had been at my computer when everything started to unravel as perhaps I could have calmed the waters somehow. I'm really sorry to see him leave. What other, older editors fail to realise is that young people like Jack are the future of Wikipedia. Moni3, however, gave good, sound advice. Getting an article up to FAC is a long, tortuous road, and the nominator is in for a rough ride. I have seen how the process works. I hope he reconsiders and decides to come back as he's a good editor with a talent for writing. Getting insulted is never pleasant; however, it's happened to me loads of times-at Wikipedia and in real life-and one really just has to put on a Sou'wester and ride out the storm.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 08:45, 5 January 2010 (UTC)

Although there were one or two comments that weren't needed I do think that Karanacs and Moni3 were giving him good advice, advice he should have taken. I also had to be honest when I told him he was going a little over the top in his anger. He will certainly be missed by a lot of editors but I have a sneaky feeling he may return at some time in the future. Jack forbes (talk) 12:45, 5 January 2010 (UTC)

lo Jack

As you are a Scot, I wanted your opinion on this - Do you think the thing [2] in this now famous photo bears a striking resemblance to James III of Scotland and his successor??? --Caesar Augusta (Hail Caesar!) (talk) 15:12, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

It probably is the ghost of King James III. Could very well be. When I visited Linlithgow Palace, a group of tourists mistook me for a ghost, and a few of the women even screamed. Apparently the guide was describing the ghost of a tall, slender young woman with long, wavy dark hair, pale skin, and at that very moment I appeared on the battlements. I wonder if they thought I was Mary of Guise?!!! LOL.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:33, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

That must have been a unique experience…While in Seoul I mistook a man standing on some boulders in the middle of the Han river for a dummy, until he moved. Why are those portraits so mind numbingly hideous??? If I were the king in question I would have had the painter beheaded! (I don’t suppose you have been to Tantallon before?)--大輔 泉 (talk) 21:55, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I once awoke during the night to see a bright indistinguishable figure seemingly looking down at me from my bedside, and I don't believe in ghosts. There is always an explanation for practically everything. Jack forbes (talk) 22:45, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

That sounds like sleep paralysis Jack, maybe. I suffer from it (Ie woke up the other day thinking an old man was standing by my door shouting at me - True!)--大輔 泉 (talk) 04:19, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Really! What was he shouting at you , Frank? Jack forbes (talk) 13:01, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Oh, this and that.

Troll

Jack, I hope I'm wrong, but it sounds as if you're thinking of retiring. Please don't. It would be unforgivable to stop doing something worthwhile due to just one obnoxious wanker. And remember, it's probably what he wants. Please stay. Nil carborundum illegitimi as a certain troll wouldn't want to allow us to say. :) Daicaregos (talk) 16:52, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Please don't retire, Jack. GoodDay (talk) 16:54, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Jack, we have already lost Jack1755. Don't even think about following suit. There are just too many good editors that are leaving, so please don't join their ranks. The joint would be dreadfully dull without you around.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:57, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Who said I was retiring? What I said was "Do I want to be around a place that allows that to happen? I don't think so." I was thinking of having a T bone steak tonight for dinner but what I'm actually having is mince and tatties. I do a lot of thinking you know. Jack forbes (talk) 17:29, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I'm considering mentorship for myself, see Snowded's page. GoodDay (talk) 17:32, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Jack, shall we become GoodDay's mentors? Are you absolutely sure, GoodDay, you want to give us so much power over you? Ha ha ha ha ha.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:42, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

If GoodDay is serious about it then I reckon Snowded or yourself (or both?) would be good candidates. Certainly not me! Jack forbes (talk) 17:47, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I need help (first signs of recovery). GoodDay (talk) 17:51, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Why wouldn't you be a good mentor, Jack?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:52, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Because I think mentorship should come from someone who hasn't disagreed so vehemently with GoodDays posts over the last few months. You and Snowded would fit that bill. Jack forbes (talk) 17:57, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Ok, GoodDay, now assuming you are serious, here's your first lesson. You must repeat this mantra one hundred times: England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland are separate countries with their own identities, flags, languages, and football teams. The UK is just a political merger. Go.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:04, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I'll never quite except that (personally). However, it would help to keep me away from those types of discussions. For example, Jack would be perfect for watching out for me on Scotland related articles & talkpages. GoodDay (talk) 18:09, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Joking aside that is very good advice from Jeanne. And GD if you cant accept that then maybe you should not edit in these areas. BigDunc 18:10, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I'm hoping to 'put aside' my PoV, when outside my talkpage. GoodDay (talk) 18:19, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Actually, GoodDay has pretty good instincts on U.K. & Ireland matters. He just needs to learn to fully trust them. (Turn to the dark side, GoodDay....) Irvine22 (talk) 19:21, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Ah, my fellow Scot appears! I don't think taking Irvine's advice would be the cleverest thing to do. Jack forbes (talk) 19:48, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Jack a chara, if everyone would stick to the talk page guidelines and only comment on content, not on the contributor there would be a lot less hassle. Any comment/posts on an editor, or any attempt to treat Article Talk Pages like a chat room should be removed. If they show up on your talk page, just ignore and remove, they soon get the message! --Domer48_'fenian' 20:02, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Hiya Jack. Trust me, a little socializing on user-talkpages, does help with collaboration on article talkpages. If you do adopt Domer's pratice, attempt moderation. Slaming the door on someone may be good for the home owner, but it can lead to bad feelings & cause lack of cooperation on public talkpages. GoodDay (talk) 20:07, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for the advice Domer. I have to say though that I'm as guilty as anyone of chatting on peoples talk page. I tend to think that a little chat does no harm. As for the hassle, there is always going to be some hassle on wikipedia and I tend not to hold back when I believe something has to be said. Jack forbes (talk) 20:26, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Jack I agree 100% about chatting on editors talk pages no problem with that at all, however I have no time for editors who just hang around Article Talk Pages looking for a row to start or getting one going. On Article Talk Pages though, if editors confined themselves to content and there would be less problems if there unproductive comments on an editor were removed. If they then show up on your talk page you can either entertain them, or ignore them i.e. don't let the door hit you on the way out! --Domer48_'fenian' 21:46, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

And I agree 100% with that, Domer. Jack forbes (talk) 22:12, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Me too. Irvine22 (talk) 23:01, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

I agree with that Domer, I, sadly have been the victim of it and the perpetrator(Although, hopefully that’s in the past, jet lagg can be a terrible thing)... And if you want to know what's entertainment! - [3]--大輔 泉 (talk) 21:51, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Glad you ain't going anywhere Jack :) btw, great link Frank. Funny stuff. Daicaregos (talk) 22:14, 7 January 2010 (UTC)

Speaking of heaven

I have been to heaven as you can see here

And here

Lo, the castle that has adorned the front of many tartan biscuit tins. Wasn't it also in a certain Monty Python film?--大輔 泉 (talk) 17:44, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Great photo's, Jeanne. Did you take them yourself? I'm guessing that would be late 70's early 80's? Jack forbes (talk) 17:46, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes I took them when I visted Scotland in September 1979. It was magnificent-I would walk around that area for miles marvelling at the splendid scenery. I took a few photos of an English guy I went on Highland jaunts with but they didn't turn out. It was too misty, and my camera was awful.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:51, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

I guessed late 70's because all cameras then were of that quality. Talking of mist, Glasgow is covered in it at the moment, though we can't complain too much as further north it's expected to be as low as -20 celcius. Not a day for a highland jaunt. Jack forbes (talk) 17:57, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

I recall Edinburgh being colder than the Highlands.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:00, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Edinburgh can be cold but the Highlands always get the worst of it. Jeanne, have you seen GoodDays editing today? He's really getting stuck into those politicians. Good on him! Jack forbes (talk) 18:03, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes, I'm glad he's taken our advice. He's doing a nice job.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:12, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

You must feel like proud parents! (I wonder if dear Alison feels the same way about me? I got really into vandalism reversion after she granted me rollback!)--大輔 泉 (talk) 18:14, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes, well power does tend to corrupt the person granted it. Makes one feel a bit like Louis XIV when one has rollback rights.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 19:05, 8 January 2010 (UTC)

How are you?

Jack, you've been quiet over the last few days. I hope everything's ok with you and yours.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:55, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

I'm fine, Jeanne. Well, apart from a couple of days ago when a frozen pipe burst and flooded my kitchen that is! Niagara falls had nothing on this:( Jack forbes (talk) 11:22, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

I'm sure that was a disaster. Whenever it's very cold outside, to prevent your pipes from freezing, open all the taps a wee bit and let a trickle of water run all night long. My mother did that in Texas when the weather got really freezing. Try it, Jack, so's to avoid having another flooded kitchen.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:36, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Good tip, Jeanne. I noticed you saying to GoodDay that he wasn't on wikipedia yesterday. I've got him being busy almost all day yesterday. Also, Frank is taking some time out till late spring so I left him a wee message. As for Irvine, well, turns out he didn't have a sockpuppet after all. Probably someone trying to set him up. Jack forbes (talk) 13:43, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

I'm glad to see that GoodDay is editing articles. I was convinced that guy wasn't Irvine. Remember that Wiki stalker who pretended to be GoodDay a couple of days ago? That's scary when someone stalks and impersonates you.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:05, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

I confess I had an inkling it may have been but, the misspelling when Dick Stauner confessed to being his sockpuppet put some doubt in my mind. It is far too easy to impersonate someone to make it look like a sock. Your suggestion that we wait till Irvine had a chance to respond (within a reasonable time) was probably a good one. It may have been sorted without a check user. Jack forbes (talk) 14:17, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

It was only fair that he should be allowed to defend himself. We are supposed to assume good faith, after all! I just had a strong impression it wasn't him. Ever since that deal with EvilDay pretending to be GoodDay has made me suspicious of edior-copycats.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:52, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

And you were right. I certainly wouldn't blame Snowded for this as he only put the request in and someone else made the decision to checkuser Irvine on the evidence available. Perhaps if Irvine were to be a little less controversial in his edits he wouldn't have any suspicion surrounding him. He has the making of a very good editor if he could cut out some of the nonsense. Jack forbes (talk) 15:02, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes, Snowded was right to be suspicious, given Irvine's editing history. He does have a way with words, I'll give him that, but he needs to be less sectarian in his outlook, less controversial, and if he could just stop striving for attention--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 15:07, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

My God, he thinks I am partisan!--Snowded ^TALK 15:43, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Snowded, when one is as partizan as he is anyone who disagrees with him will be tarred with the same brush by him. It's nonsense of course as I (and many other I'm sure) can see you have been leaving any POV you may have aside and dealing very fairly with all those concerned at trouble related articles, etc. Keep going they way you are Snowded and you can't go wrong. I'm still keeping an eye out for your request for adminship. Jack forbes (talk) 15:55, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks jack ...--Snowded ^TALK 15:56, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

I would expect someone with aspirations to adminship to have more regard for policy and guidlelines than Snowded has shown in this matter. (But I'm pleased that we're all agreed that I'm not a Stauner, just a dick.) Irvine22 (talk) 16:02, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

(lol) Have you thought about creating/working on some non-political articles Irvine22? You're a smart fellow. You could do some really good work. Just a thought. Daicaregos (talk) 16:08, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes, Irvine, you do have a way with words, and a sense of humour. I had never heard of the word stauner until now, ah well, there goes my street credibility!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:17, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Well, I've been thinking about creating an article on Anthony McIntyre. Also on John Johnston "King of the Frews" - one of my favorite historical figures. As far as non-political editing goes, I do have a near-complete and pristine collection of colonial-era and Commonwealth coins from S. Africa - basically anything with a royal head on 't. I was thinking of doing some editing in the area of numismatics...maybe upload some pics of the coins, if I can figure out how. Irvine22 (talk) 16:22, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Sounds like a grand idea. There are instruction on how to upload but if you want to ask Jeanne, who has uploaded many images, she may help you out. Jack forbes (talk) 16:41, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Go to here, click on the 1st option: "It is entirely my own work". Upload a jpeg of the item (i.e. choose file from your own computer). Choose a suitable filename. Choose which commons licence you want (3.0 attribution is good - that way you should receive a name-check). Choose some relevant categories (similar to the ones you choose for the article). Check the 'Watch this file' box. Hit 'Upload' and you're done.
Could you check it for me please Jeanne and make any corrections? Thanks. Daicaregos (talk) 16:45, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

You explained it well, Dai. Another thing Irvine,, remember to make the file name as simple as possible without using dashes, etc. Make sure you add the licence or it will be deleted. Good luck, Irvine.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:09, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Oh, and Irvine, before you can upload images, you'll need to create an account with Commons if you haven't done so already.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:10, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for the tips. I will have to photograph the coins, which means donning the wee white gloves I use only for coin handling. Irvine22 (talk) 19:43, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Ach! You just can't help yourself Irvine, can you. Jack forbes (talk) 19:54, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

No, I can't. Must be the early and extensive training in street discourse in two of the Celtic nations. All that time to fill while waiting outside pubs for my da to come oot...and he was aiways the last wan oot...you know how it goes, I'm sure. Irvine22 (talk) 19:59, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Yes, I know how it goes, Irvine. I've stood outside my fair share of pubs when I was a lad. There comes a time Irvine, when you have to let all this bigotry nonsense go. Like you I've seen it first hand and grew up with it but the older you get the more you realize it's a complete waste of time, and there are better things to do and think. Jack forbes (talk) 20:14, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Right, we're a'wan. "Thistle, shamrock, rose entwined". And a leek thrown in in there somewhere. Gaun gie's a hug, Jack? (I'll no git a stauner, I swear it...)Irvine22 (talk) 20:16, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Gaun an gie yersel a hug! Ya wee tadger! ;) Jack forbes (talk) 20:19, 12 January 2010 (UTC)

Welcome back

Croeso yn ol/welcome back. Hope you've sorted your pipes out (and cleared up). Jeez, what a headache, poor you. Thought you may have been away conquering more Munroes, hardy fellow that you are. But still (only) 280 to go, I see. Daicaregos (talk) 12:26, 18 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks, Dai. Yep, everything is just about sorted. I'm just waiting for my kitchen ceiling to be replaced. Feeling less hardy over the last week but once the good weather returns I'll try and do a few more this year. Jack forbes (talk) 12:40, 18 January 2010 (UTC)

Hello Jack, nice to see you back with us. Many years ago in Dublin, my son once flooded the entire house and caused the kitchen ceiling to almost cave in. Remember to leave all the taps dripping slightly at night so's to avoid an encore performance of bursting pipes!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:02, 18 January 2010 (UTC)

Hi, Jeanne. Fortunately the temperature in Glasgow has gone up a fair bit but, if it goes down again I'll keep your advice in mind. Thanks. Wouldn't want to go through that again I can tell you! Jack forbes (talk) 13:06, 18 January 2010 (UTC)

Link

The link fails WP:RS as bebo is not a Reliable source and even if it was it shows what 1 organisation uses not pan-celticism as a whole Gnevin (talk) 12:36, 18 January 2010 (UTC)

Margaret Thatcher

I had to revert my response, as it appeared I was starting to agree with everybody. I fear I may have overdone it at the Sinn Fein page as well (this evening). I must continue to control this talkpage addiction of mine. GoodDay (talk) 01:23, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

The couple I saw at the sinn Fein article where fine in my opinion. The Thatcher talk page where you agreed with me, well, if you agree with me your always right! ;) GoodDay, as long as you explain why you change your mind during a discussion there is nothing wrong with doing that. As long as you don't change too often that is. Don't start thinking you shouldn't post on talk pages, just make sure your saying something you can back up. I've been looking at some of your article edits recently and I think your doing a fine job. Well done, GoodDay. Jack forbes (talk) 01:30, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks, I'm hoping to restrict myself to article discussions, 1-day per week. Being in article discussions gives me some sorta high & my irratic side begins to surface. This part of my pysche, must be restrained. GoodDay (talk) 01:33, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

There's lots of other ways to get high, GoodDay. Being such a straight laced kind of guy I wouldn't know them, but I'm sure Jeanne and Dai could think of a few. :) Jack forbes (talk) 02:27, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Hold on, Jack. I get high on life, man, nothing else. Way to go.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:11, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Best to leave the artificial ways to the kids. There was always a price to pay, as I remember (not that I remember that much tbh). As ever, Jeanne's advice is spot on, although I am rather (too) partial to alcohol. Daicaregos (talk) 09:18, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Wine, women and song is my advice if you want to get high. Either that or a nice game of chess. Jack forbes (talk) 12:59, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Ah, chess....Do you guys realise it's been so long since I played chess, that I've forgotten how to play it!!!!Honestly, I cannot even remember how to castle. Same with poker. Years since I had a game. Pity as I enjoyed both.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:11, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Anytime you want a refresher course on chess let me know. As for poker, I was once a member of a casino in Glasgow and you certainly got a high when you were playing. When leaving the casino it was usually a different feeling. Jack forbes (talk) 13:22, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Another game I like is Bingo-corny as that sounds. Trivial Pursuit and the classic Monopoly are also favourites.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:25, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Trivial Pursuit and Monopoly I love. Had a game of TP only a few days ago. Most kids want computer games nowadays but I think board games are unbeatable. At least with board games you are actually interacting with another living person. It's good to look back and remember playing games with the whole family. What memories are most of todays kids going to have when they get older? Sitting in front of the games consul screen? Jack forbes (talk) 13:35, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

My God! I'm starting to sound like a grumpy old man. Help! Jack forbes (talk) 13:39, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

I meant to say Bingo (US). Another great game to play with family and friends is Charades. Jack, you know you're getting old when you constantly yell at the kids to "turn that damn music down"!!!!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:50, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

Nay, I never drank or done narcotics. GoodDay (talk) 19:25, 19 January 2010 (UTC)

"Good night, John Boy".--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:43, 20 January 2010 (UTC)

Celtic nation

Have a look here: User:Daicaregos/sandbox 4. Seems O.K. as far as it goes, but expanding it has proved difficult. Alex Salmond talks about the "Celtic Lion", but he doesn't say why he used that expression (as far as I can see), so any inference would be WP:SYN. I'm struggling to find any decent refs. e.g. The universities of Aberdeen & Edinburgh have Celtic studies departments, but both fall short of saying anything that could be used or quoted. I found nothing useful on Scottish Cetic art. Celtic seems to be taken as read - it is implicit, so it's not defined explicitly. Any ideas? Daicaregos (talk) 12:41, 23 January 2010 (UTC)

I've spent the last half hour or so trying to find something useful. As you say, it just seems to be implicit that it's Scottish Celtic art. I'm thinking perhaps you could ask someone like Ben MacDui who may find something of relevance. Jack forbes (talk) 13:51, 23 January 2010 (UTC)

Dai, are you going to include the text into the Scotland article? I'm sorry I cant be of more use but I'm struggling to find time at the moment. Your text is fine in my opinion but as I said, if you do want to expand it and are unable to find anything of use to add then I think asking an experienced Scottish editor like the one above could help you out (hopefully). Jack forbes (talk) 14:41, 25 January 2010 (UTC)

Righto Jack, thanks. I'll give him a shout. Cheers, Daicaregos (talk) 15:19, 25 January 2010 (UTC)

Your opinion is needed

Jack, your opinion is needed here: Talk:John F. Kennedy assassination. Thanks. I strongly feel that it's OR and POV-pushing to have Officer Tippit's name in the infobox as the two killings were two separate events, which took place in different locations, 45 minutes apart and by different weapons. It has never been conclusively proven that they were carried out by the same perpetrator. What do you think?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:47, 25 January 2010 (UTC)

I'll certainly have a look at it, Jeanne. It'll have to be later on today though. Jack forbes (talk) 14:49, 25 January 2010 (UTC)

OK, thanks Jack. I trust and respect your opinion.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:51, 25 January 2010 (UTC)

CDA

Howdy Jack. I'm confident the Recall proposal will be adopted by the entire Wiki community. GoodDay (talk) 01:32, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Hi, GoodDay. Your probably right. It's only fair after all if the community can give the mop they should be allowed to have a say in taking it away. Jack forbes (talk) 01:35, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Nice one

Jack, the photo you took and uploaded to your page is beautiful. When did you take it?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:03, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks. I took it in October 2009. Surprisingly good weather for that time of the year. Jack forbes (talk) 17:08, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Yeah, that's why I asked. I thought the weather looked too nice for this time of year!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:03, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

It was early October and a couple of weeks later I wouldn't have attempted to climb it. Before going up that day there was a weather warning for the summit and whilst it was really cloudy up top (hence, no picture from summit) it wasn't too bad. It's hard work getting there but the view and fresh air always make it worthwhile. I'll be hoping to do more climbing when the good weather comes in again. Jack forbes (talk) 18:08, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Sounds like fun. I love the Scottish Highlands.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:10, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Ben Lomond is also beautiful with a great view of Loch Lomond below and even, if I remember rightly, the Clyde estuary in the distance. My problem is keeping fit during the winter months. I'll have to start exercising soon or I'll be gasping all the way up the next mountain. Jack forbes (talk) 18:17, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

As JR Ewing said "Where there's a will, there's a way"!!!! Or was it that "Where there's a way, there's a will"? Anyroad, you'll be fine, Jack.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:21, 27 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks

Just a nudge to say thanks for your comments of support. I don't express myself very well sometimes, and (occasionally) polarise editors! It's my biggest weakness. However, I'm glad you agreed; I don't see any validity in the opposing view at all; and, if nothing else, I actually think that the continued inclusion of Dublin is an offense to the Irish republican movement! --Jza84 |  Talk  16:58, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

Your welcome. I don't think they have a leg to stand on to be honest. It is probably offensive to the vast majority of people living in the republic of Ireland. Hopefully more people will arrive and give their views. Jack forbes (talk) 17:05, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

Took a quick peek there. Indeed, Dublin should be excluded. GoodDay (talk) 17:57, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

You should give your view on it, GoodDay. You know why it shouldn't be included so your view will be as relevant as anyones. Jack forbes (talk) 17:59, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

This is one of those situation where geography & politics gets jumbled together. GoodDay (talk) 18:34, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

Nah, you just can't play fast and loose with a template. Geography and politics should play no part in it. It's a UK template plain and simple. Jack forbes (talk) 18:36, 28 January 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for the advice on my page

Thanks for that Jack. I've Review all there was, and I've kept the powder dry. --Domer48_'fenian' 21:01, 29 January 2010 (UTC)

:D

Well thanks, still in a sombre mood here and prone to mistakes. Funny enough, I tried to correct the link to your user page on that pic of yours only to realize it was commons and that you hadn't (Yet) made a user page there. --大輔 泉 (talk) 21:00, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

I'll get round to it eventually. Can I give a wee bit of advice to you Frank? You should let Domer and Elonka sort it out themselves when any evidence is brought forward. Who's right and who's wrong? I don't know, but it does you no good telling other people someone is a troll before any decisions are made. This is just a wee bit of friendly advice Frank, and I hope you take it that way. Jack forbes (talk) 21:07, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

In regards to that, I would say I support Elonka's good faith and professionalism in making that block. Even if it is a bad block, I do not think her reputation should be damaged. Also, sorry Murray lost )= --大輔 泉 (talk) 21:11, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

Elonka didn't make the recent block but it was a very bad block indeed. I've never had a problem with Elonka as I've never interacted with her (much) but a person has a right to ask questions of an admin (without harassing them). As for Murray, I'm afraid Federer outclassed him, but then he outclasses everyone most of the time. Jack forbes (talk) 21:16, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

Indeed he does /= --大輔 泉 (talk) 21:35, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

Talkback

Hello, Jack forbes (renamed). You have new messages at Rannpháirtí anaithnid's talk page.
You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{Talkback}} or {{Tb}} template.

x2 --rannṗáirtí anaiṫnid (coṁrá) 22:57, 31 January 2010 (UTC)

Your pic.

I can just imagine seeing Frodo and Sam staggering up the rocky face with Gollum sneaky around behind them!--大輔 泉 (talk) 12:48, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

They were, Frank. They were! Jack forbes (talk) 12:50, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

Tonight Jack I shall be having a high-quality Scottish made vegetarian haggis. Have YOU ever eaten such a thing? Does not having meat make it not a haggis? --大輔 泉 (talk) 17:13, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

Never had a vegetarian Haggis and don't really see the point to be honest, unless your vegetarian of course. Are you vegetarian Frank? Jack forbes (talk) 17:18, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

Proud meat-eater! (Hides from Dai) --大輔 泉 (talk) 17:33, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

I'm no evangelist about it. If you want to eat meat - it's your choice. It's just not for me. Only thing I would ask is for everyone to please stop buying chicken (or eggs) that aren't free range (it breaks my heart to see them in their cages. Best thing about it is that they only have a very short life in which to suffer). I have eaten vegetarian Haggis, and enjoyed it very much. It was a gift from someone returning from a holiday in Scotland. Daicaregos (talk) 17:49, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

We only buy free-range and always have, wouldn't have it anyway. I totally agree with you on that point Dai. I’m looking forward to the Haggis now ^_^ --大輔 泉 (talk) 17:52, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

I remember Linda McCartney saying she could never eat anything with a face, so it does make you think. I understand why people would become vegetarians, but it's not for me. Jack forbes (talk) 17:54, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

No idea how my last edit happened... sorry! Ghmyrtle (talk) 10:25, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

CDA

Howdy Jack. Alot of what's occuring there, is over my head. Therefore, I just let'em work it out, since they seem to know what it is they're working out. GoodDay (talk) 20:49, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

For someone just coming to it, it looks far too confusing, hence my reason for asking for a little bit of clarification. I may be none the wiser after it but I thought I would ask anyway. Jack forbes (talk) 20:56, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

I've given up on clarification (days ago). I'm basically a spectator there, nowadays. GoodDay (talk) 20:59, 1 February 2010 (UTC)

See you in the summer Jack,

*Waves* --大輔 泉 (talk) 18:37, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

*Waves* back. Jack forbes (talk) 18:47, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

Have fun Jack. All the best, Daicaregos (talk) 20:17, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

Deep envy of those Monroes, its been a few decades since I was last there --Snowded ^TALK 20:21, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

Have fun, Jack & don't forget to yodel. GoodDay (talk) 21:58, 2 February 2010 (UTC)

Yes Jack, have fun, and don't forget to take lots of photos! Take care and see you when you get back.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 08:01, 3 February 2010 (UTC)

View of Glen Nevis and surrounding mountains taken from Ben Nevis

Welcome back

We missed ya Jack, ya big yodeler ya. GoodDay (talk) 20:20, 20 February 2010 (UTC)

Ah! But I've not done my yodeling yet. I'm in the process of getting fit so no yodeling for a little while yet. I'll be really busy again from tomorrow so will be gone from wikipedia for a while yet. This was just a wee visit. Jack forbes (talk) 21:13, 20 February 2010 (UTC)

More mountatins to conquer? have fun. GoodDay (talk) 21:15, 20 February 2010 (UTC)

errrr...

How's the snow? Well, I was a wee be worried for ya Jack after I heard some folk up yonder suffered a bad fate in the mountains! I’m determined to go back myself, in fact wouldn’t mind spending a Honeymoon up there, if I can tempt my Chinese bride-to-be (With any luck) to consider that instead of Beijing. Damn.--Frank Fontaine (talk) 23:06, 2 March 2010 (UTC)

Hi, Frank. I've been doing a lot of running and cycling before I start on the climbing again. Gotta be fit you know. You should go back sometime. It still blows my mind and I've been there numerous times. Are you really getting married Frank? If so, I wish you and your future wife all the best and I'm sure you'll have a great time whether that's in Scotland or Beijing. Jack forbes (talk) 23:16, 2 March 2010 (UTC)

Haha, thanks. I gotta get fit myself...Even my mother does more than me at the moment... Well, this proposed wedding would not be until 2012 as she has to finish her exams in Wuhan, China. You know they treat them likes prisoners in those places!? Well I’m glad you didn’t get crushed by tons of snow Jack. Some people take too many risks I feel. --Frank Fontaine (talk) 23:25, 2 March 2010 (UTC)

Hi Jack (oops pun not intended!), and hi Frank. How are you lads faring? It's been a while since lasting hearing from the pair of you. To be perfectly frank, the place is rather dull without you both.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:45, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

You can hi Jack me anytime Jeanne. How can this place be dull? Where are all the arguments happening? Your not telling me all the users on wikipedia have stopped arguing and are happily editing away to their hearts content are you! Now, that would be a very dull place. Jack forbes (talk) 10:04, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

Jack we need your input on Talk:List of sovereign states by formation date. The whole thing is threatening to fly off into the stratosphere like a hot-air balloon by the sheer inanity of the OR involved!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:20, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

Believe it or not, I was just looking at it. What is wrong with these people? I'm going to revert back to 1707 and ask for input from other projects. Jack forbes (talk) 13:23, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

At this stage it's turning into a free-for-all smorgasbord of pick and choose whichever date fits one's agenda. The UK officially began as a legal political entity in 1707. We as editors need to report that, personal POVs aside.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:27, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

I have alerted those at the home nation pages. If there are any others you think could be notified of this let me know. It is an absolute nonsense of course. Not surprising considering who is involved though. Jack forbes (talk) 13:41, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

Jeanne, without you, this place would be dull as hell (Well speaking really hell probably isn't a dull place, if it exists) haha! --Frank Fontaine (talk) 16:55, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

Frank, please don't tell me Hell is boring. That's all I need to hear, considering I've made my reservation to spend my eternity there.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:01, 3 March 2010 (UTC)

The RfC on the Community de-Adminship proposal has begun

The RfC on the Community de-Adminship proposal was started on the 22nd Feb, and it runs for 28 days. Please note that the existing CDA proposal was (in the end) run as something of a working compromise, so CDA is still largely being floated as an idea.

Also note that, although the RfC is in 'poll format' (Support, Oppose, and Neutral, with Comments underneath), this RfC is still essentially a 'Request for Comment'. Currently, similar comments on CDA's value are being made under all three polls.

Whatever you vote, your vote is welcome!

Regards, Matt Lewis (talk) 11:18, 4 March 2010 (UTC)

Isn't wikipedia mostly a lot of crap!

Wikipedia, whoever shouts loud enough wins! No matter what the crap they shout about. Jack forbes (talk) 23:25, 5 March 2010 (UTC)

Indeed. --Frank Fontaine (talk) 23:26, 5 March 2010 (UTC)

It would be nice to get some back up against some of the crap out there, but when you don't it's time to realise it's a complete waste of time. Let them make up their own histories shall we? Wikipedias lost. No wonder I take long breaks from this stupid fuckin place. Jack forbes (talk) 23:40, 5 March 2010 (UTC)

Jack, go get some sleep. Maybe speak to Jeanne, maybe she will know how to comfort you :D. I know what's going on, you're in a love-hate relationship with this place. --Frank Fontaine (talk) 23:48, 5 March 2010 (UTC)

I don't need any comfort or sleep. I need people with enough balls to argue against some of the shite thats being put out there. That's not going to happen as far as I can see. Let them screw up wikipedia with their nonsense, I don't really give a fuck any more. Just a shame some people don't care enough to even argue over it. Jack forbes (talk) 23:55, 5 March 2010 (UTC)

Who's got ya peeved? GoodDay (talk) 00:37, 6 March 2010 (UTC)

Sounds like the whole system. --Frank Fontaine (talk) 01:34, 6 March 2010 (UTC)

Sounds like he'll be needing his Irn Bru the morra. Irvine22 (talk) 04:21, 6 March 2010 (UTC)

Jack, the people who shout the loudest and have the most time on their hands usually win. And the deletionists always, but ALWAYS get their way. It's strange when an article is put up for deletion, how many editors you've never even heard of appear on the scene to add the delete vote. It's like the sharks who swim around on AN/I. The creature in Spielberg's film was more benign than some of those editors hanging about on that page.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 06:21, 6 March 2010 (UTC)

Amazing! Pissed Feeling a little under the weather and I can still spell correctly. Now, where's that bottle of Irn Bru? Jack forbes (talk) 09:19, 6 March 2010 (UTC)

The vanishing history

Who did that to Daicaregos' history & why? GoodDay (talk) 19:58, 7 March 2010 (UTC)

It's all a mystery to me GoodDay but I'm sure there must have been a good reason for it. Jack forbes (talk) 20:01, 7 March 2010 (UTC)

Catherine de Medici

Jack,one question: was I wrong in saying she was decidedly lacking in beauty or am I being too harsh in my judgement?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:02, 9 March 2010 (UTC)--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:02, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

One answer, no! She`was only 36 when she`was painted. What did she look like at 46?? I'm not one who usually critizes peoples looks but, you've got to be honest sometimes. Especially when it's any kind of royalty. ;) Jack forbes (talk) 18:22, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

Another editor thought I was trying to say she was ugly.Hmn...I thought decidedly lacking in beauty was rather diplomatic to describe a woman who resembled a toad.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:29, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

Well said, Jeanne. I would never tell a woman she was ugly even if I thought she was. I would never tell the same woman she was beautiful either mind. There's being diplomatic and there's just pure lying. Jack forbes (talk) 18:37, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

I suppose I am in my No More Mr Nice Guy mode today. I am rather sharp-tongued in someof my edits, no?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:45, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

Jeanne, your sharp tongue would be another persons sweet talk. You have never come across as anything but polite, even when you are giving a strong view on something or someone. Jack forbes (talk) 18:48, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

Maybe I do need to be bitchier. Some editors are starting to take the piss, and I've been too nice to respnd with acid-tipped fingers.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:51, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

When putting your point across it's always better to put it as politely as possible. You have always done this. If you start doing the reverse you may be surprised at how many arguments you would lose. Just stay the`way you are, Jeanne. Jack forbes (talk) 18:55, 9 March 2010 (UTC)

Politeness with a touch of humour works best for me. There's no point in being nasty as you catch more flies with honey!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 08:02, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

I can't help it, but I always imagine those who are the nastiest on here are little skinny guys who where bullied at school and are taking this opportunity to act the big men. There is one editors talk page where him and a few cronies talk as though they are the hardest guys on the block. Laughable really. Jack forbes (talk) 08:18, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

I think I know who you mean. Are they addicted to the word f..k, by any chance?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:05, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

Yep. I think you made a couple of posts there a while ago. Hilarious, isn't it, the way they try and come across as tough guys. Jack forbes (talk) 09:09, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

The females are even more pathetic.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:27, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

You mean, they have their molls? Jack forbes (talk) 10:30, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

Irvine

After reading Irvine's latest snide comment on his talk page, I wouldn't put much hope in his sitting down and engaging in a sincere discussion with us. What do you think, Jack?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:31, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

I've posted another comment, but he doesn't seem to want to recognize that it's his overall conduct that I'm referring to. Jack forbes (talk) 17:18, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

Overall conduct is a collection of specific instances. I've explained my thinking in the specific instance you cited, I dare say I could explain my thinking in other instances, should you care to raise them. And, Jeanne, I'm sorry you seem to have taken my comment about the Dave Snowden article personally. To be honest, I think your contributions there - which seemed to consist mainly of adding material spoon-fed to you by the subject of the article - did not improve the article. In fact, they made it read like a vanity/puff piece. I'd suggest a reversion to the last version by Rockpocket as being in the best interests of both the project and the subject of that article, properly understood. Irvine22 (talk) 20:15, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

He's obviously not interested in making positive contributions here.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:57, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

I've made my last comment there unless there is quite a remarkable turnaround. Very unlikely I'm afraid. Jack forbes (talk) 18:59, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

Don't waste your time on him. You made the offer, which he has pointedly not taken up.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 19:22, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

Too soft hearted, that's my problem. Or should that be soft headed? :) Jack forbes (talk) 19:29, 10 March 2010 (UTC)

I would call you optimistic; but in this case, it's misplaced as Irvine is continually proving, by his persistantly acidic comments on Dave Snowden's talk page, that he is a lost cause that cannot be salvaged despite determined efforts to do so by generous editors such as yourself. Jack, if I were you I'd give up on him. He's not worth your time nor kindness. He's a piss-taking wind-up merchant who wants to provoke editors into insulting him so he can get them blocked for incivility. This time it appears that my Bullshit Detector was functioning correctly. I had him sussed from the beginning; the guy gets his kicks out of upsetting people.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 08:44, 11 March 2010 (UTC)

I've said my last word on it, Jeanne. Others should be aware I was not defending him in any way, just trying to convince him to mend his ways. I gave it a go. Jack forbes (talk) 13:10, 11 March 2010 (UTC)

I know you weren't defending him, Jack. You were trying to help him and he turned down your offer. The ball's in his court.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:15, 11 March 2010 (UTC)

I heard it throught the Irvine

I see yas are having probs again with a certain editor, at the Dave Snowden article. IMHO, that certain editor is no longer relevant to Wikipedia. Good luck with him, as he'll never reform. GoodDay (talk) 16:37, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

I've given up trying to reform him. Seriously though, if he has questions on the Dave Snowden article then he should be allowed to ask, as long as when he is answered he doesn't beat the dead horse. Jack forbes (talk) 16:48, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

Yes, my main concerns about that article are that most of the biographical information seems unverified, having been either supplied on Wiki by an editor who claims to be the subject of the article, or lifted from the commercial website of the subject. Irvine22 (talk) 17:33, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

I've had no use for that editor for weeks. He's just 'bleeping' around, with everybody. GoodDay (talk) 16:52, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

I've already told him that he's on the way to a very long if not indef block. It's up to him. Jack forbes (talk) 16:53, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

The best thing to do (for the moment), is for everbody to ignore him & simply revert any of his provactive edits. GoodDay (talk) 16:56, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

Agreed. Just can't see him becoming bored by it, though. Daicaregos (talk) 17:00, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

No probs, he's determined to be indef-blocked; so be it. GoodDay (talk) 17:03, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

If you want my opinion, the guy has an obsession with provoking Snowded.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:07, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

Snowded's done well to keep out of it. Daicaregos (talk) 17:09, 12 March 2010 (UTC)

Discussion at Talk:Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom/Article title

You are invited to join the discussion at Talk:Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom/Article title. DrKiernan (talk) 09:09, 18 March 2010 (UTC) (Using {{Please see}})

Let it all hang out

Jack, have you seen all that guy's contributions?!!!!! It's been ages since I last had such a good laugh.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:23, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

What, you mean he's been flashing his tackle all over wikipedia? If I had tackle like that I'd keep it a secret! Jack forbes (talk) 12:26, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

Check out his contributions. LOL. I'm laughing so hard now, tears are rolling down my face and my keyboard's blurry.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:29, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

Once is enough thanks. Don't think I could take a whole montage of photos. No wonder he hid his face, shame that's the only thing he hid. Jack forbes (talk) 12:36, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

The others are worse; one is a close-up! There are some strange people here. One can do anything with a digital camera; previously, he'd have had to bring the film for processing at the local chemist.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:41, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

Can you imagine him picking the photos up from the chemist! He'd probably wear a gimp mask to hide his identity. Jack forbes (talk) 12:44, 22 March 2010 (UTC)

Good morning, Jack. How are you this overcast, grey morning?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 10:22, 23 March 2010 (UTC)

Good morning, Jeanne. How did you know it was overcast here?! Have you got a cctv camera on me? Jack forbes (talk) 10:24, 23 March 2010 (UTC)

Jack, didn't you know that the eyes of the ranger are upon you?!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:47, 23 March 2010 (UTC)

Ireland

Hello, Jack forbes (renamed). You have new messages at Rannpháirtí anaithnid's talk page.
You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{Talkback}} or {{Tb}} template.

No, way. Thanks for the help. --RA (talk) 09:56, 29 March 2010 (UTC)

x2 (gave an example of another image) --RA (talk) 11:22, 29 March 2010 (UTC)

Happy Easter

I hope you have a Happy Easter, Jack!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:59, 4 April 2010 (UTC)

Jokes

I realised afterwards that I probably shouldn't have done that - but I do think that, of all the places on WP where one can make jokes, the ref desk isn't the best one. There are a lot of people on there from other parts of the world - outside UK/US culture - who don't necessarily understand what is a joke and what isn't - hence my smallifications. But it certainly wasn't meant as a dig at you. Ghmyrtle (talk) 17:47, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

I know it wasn't meant as a dig at me and I certainly didn't take it that way. I was making a wee joke myself at your new word. I do have a sense of humour, honestly! As I said, smallify away. :) Jack forbes (talk) 17:51, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

Gmyrtle, one can check my edit content to see that over 70% of my edits are made to articles; hence the need for occasional levity and humour- even at that monument to intellectual sanctity: The Reference Desk/Humanities.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:55, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

I know, and thanks for not taking offencse. You're an excellent editor, Jeanne - but there's a convention, on the Ref Desk at least, that joke comments, or ones which go way off the topic of the original questioner, are smallificated in an attempt to show those less accustomed to transatlantic humour or social mores that the comments are not expected to be taken too seriously. But feel free to smallificatorify the whole of this comment if you like.  ;-) Ghmyrtle (talk) 18:05, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

A scot with a sense of Humor??? NEVA!.. Wait isn't that the English? Maybe the Welsh? Can't be the Irish... I loose count as to what Stereotypes belong to wich in these dear Islands...We have to laugh at ourselves. I thought you had retired Jack? I guess this is a love-hate relationship with WP you have going on.--Frank Fontaine (talk) 18:01, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

Thanks, Gmyrtle. I'll remember to smallify the jokes. One time I did it though, and I reduced the entire page to tiny print!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:41, 17 May 2010 (UTC)

Happy Jack forbes's Day!

User:Jack forbes has been identified as an Awesome Wikipedian, and therefore, I've officially declared today as Jack forbes's day! For being such a beautiful person and great Wikipedian, enjoy being the Star of the day, dear Jack forbes! Peace, Rlevse 00:10, 18 May 2010 (UTC) A record of your Day will always be kept here.

For a userbox you can add to your userbox page, see User:Rlevse/Today/Happy Me Day! and my own userpage for a sample of how to use it. — Rlevse • Talk • 00:10, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Congratulations, Jack! It's well-deserved.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 05:55, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Shhh! I think they have mistaken me for someone else. If you keep quiet they might leave it here. Jack forbes (talk) 08:49, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Not to worry, Jack. They have the right address. You earned it, enjoy it!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:14, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Congratulations, Jack! Ah good. A decent reason to celebrate today. Daicaregos (talk) 13:21, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

If it's still here tomorrow I'll break out the Champagne. Jack forbes (talk) 13:55, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Might I inquire as to it's vintage?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:57, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

God! You've put me in a pickle! I confess, I'm no Champagne drinker, just a common beer drinker. You'll have to give me some tips, Jeanne. Jack forbes (talk) 14:00, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

The only names which immediately spring to mind are Dom Perignon and Lafitte-Rothschild; as to the best years-I haven't a clue!!!!! Alas, I am not a sophisticate, although as my user page says, I can make an effort to hold my own in refined (?) circles! LOL.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:07, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

The Grand Prix drivers usually have Moet don't they? I've never tried to be sophisticated (whatever that is) though I did once try and hold a tea cup with my finger sticking up but it just made me look a fool. Jack forbes (talk) 14:13, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Moet!!! I had forgotten about that! Oh, do you follow Formula 1? I'm a fan of Michael Schumacher. Alonso is another favourite.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:15, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

I've been a big formula 1 fan for many years, though I've never seen it live. I like Michael Schumacher too, though my all time favourite has to be Jackie Stewart. I once saw his F1 car on display in the Glasgow art gallery and was shocked at how tiny it was. Jack forbes (talk) 14:20, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

I don't know why Schumacher made the mistake of surpassing Alonso when the Safety Car was still on the track. IMO, they just don't like each other. What do you think of David Coulthard?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:24, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

The safety car wasn't on the track, Jeanne, and as far as I know he kept the position he took from Alonso. David Coulthard? A good driver, but then there are good drivers and great drivers. Jack forbes (talk) 14:27, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Oh, so he wasn't penalised?--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:29, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

My bad! He was actually penalized 20 seconds which demoted him to 12th. Last I heard he wasn't going to be penalized. I really should keep up to date. Jack forbes (talk) 14:36, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Schumacher is one of the most charismatic drivers along with Ayrton Senna. I remember when the latter was killed in 1994.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:46, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

I do to. I remember thinking that it looked such an innocuous crash that he would be alright. Talking of Coulthard earlier, he was the driver that took Ayrton's seat for the rest of the season. Jack forbes (talk) 14:53, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Yes, it didn't appear that it was fatal. There was contoversy as to whether or not he died at the scene.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 15:08, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

Well Jack, it's tomorrow and it's still here. Time to break out the Champagne! Daicaregos (talk) 23:10, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

There you go, Dai. When that's done we can crack open another. Jack forbes (talk) 23:14, 18 May 2010 (UTC)

A bottle of vintage 1999 Dom Pérignon

Looks like we need a bot to remove out of date user days. Until then, happy Jack forbes day + 1! — Richardguk (talk) 01:28, 19 May 2010 (UTC)

Cheers! Have a glass of bubbly. Jack forbes (talk) 01:50, 19 May 2010 (UTC)

Party! Party! Party!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:42, 19 May 2010 (UTC)

Ref Desk Humanities

Jack, I see you are now posting on the ref desk Humanities. I cannot keep away from there, as it's really a font of information.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 13:20, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

I only found it through you Jeanne. As you say, a font of information. Jack forbes (talk) 15:08, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

I must say it would be nice once in while if the people asking the questions also took the time to thank those of us who spend our time searching for the answers to their questions! I always thank the other editors when they supply the answers to my questions. It only takes a couple of seconds to type out a brief acknowledgement of our efforts on their behalf.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 15:19, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

It's a two-way process though. Perhaps we should be thanking them, for making our sad lives sat in front of a screen just that little bit more interesting. (Anyway, they do thank us sometimes!) Ghmyrtle (talk) 15:25, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

A small minority of them actually seem to demand an answer! I think they should be reverted and wait for them to ask nicely. After all, nobody is being paid to answer. Jack forbes (talk) 15:28, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Here is an example. An editor posted a photo of a young US Marine taken in Vietnam in 1965 and asked if there was any way he could be identified. OK, I'll admit I was curious in obtaining his identity, so it was a pleasure to do a search on him; and although I didn't find out his name, I believe I located his battalion, which makes identity a lot easier. I posted my findings, and a lot of other editors also took their time in blowing up the picture to read the name on his uniform, etc., and so far there's been no response or acknowledgement of our efforts by the OP.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 15:40, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

I know what you mean, Jeanne. I always try and thank those who answer my questions on Wiki. I guess it's just good manners. Jack forbes (talk) 15:44, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Next time I answer someone's question without receiving acknowledgement I shall point out that a thank you would not go amiss!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 15:50, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

To be fair, in that case the questioner is a registered editor who doesn't seem to log on (or at least contribute) that frequently, perhaps because he doesn't have regular PC access. WP:AGF and all that! Ghmyrtle (talk) 16:34, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for clearing that up, Ghmyrtle. See, it's easy! :) Jack forbes (talk) 16:41, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Actually, I was interested myself in the young Marine's identity so I was really searching to satisfy my own curiosity; however there are regular OPs who log in everyday, ask questions and never bother to reply. SouthAmerican will probably respond as he went to a lot of trouble to upload the photo which is already at Commons and has been a featured image on various wikipedias worldwide. I really should become less cynical and AGF more often!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:55, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

But also, there certainly are plenty of people there who ask questions just for the sake of it - presumably, to have a good laugh at poor demented AGF-ing people like us ferreting around and searching out nuggets of info that they don't really want, and can't be bothered finding for themselves. Ghmyrtle (talk) 18:07, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Quite right, Jeanne. You tell em! :) Hows the weather in Italy then? Nice and sunny I would imagine. Jack forbes (talk) 15:55, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Today the weather has been lovely. It's now about 6.20 PM.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 16:20, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Glad to hear it. We too have had some beautiful weather today. I hope it lasts throughout the summer. Jack forbes (talk) 16:41, 24 May 2010 (UTC)

Wikipedia is hilarious today

I don't know when I have had so many laughs as I've had so far today at Wikipedia? Is there perchance a full moon tonight?!!!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 09:34, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

What have I been missing Jeanne? Jack forbes (talk) 10:48, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

This and and this. They have really turned the big guns on me today-LOL!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 11:19, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

The ip needs a good slapping talking to, don't they. The reply: Thanks, I've tried that but it's not in the written lyrics, would have been so much simpler. You're certainly having a funny old day today, Jeanne. Jack forbes (talk) 11:32, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

And what about the diatribe on the Anne Boleyn talk page?! Jesus wept!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 11:36, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

I liked the part were they said the only reason you were putting that in was because of your name, Boleyn. Going on to say, if that is your real name. Probably thinks your related to Anne Boleyn and are defending your ancestor. Anyway, I'll never know how anyone can get so worked up about royalty. Jack forbes (talk) 11:43, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Well, according to her user page, the editor in question is descended from royalty!!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 11:47, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Aha! If her user page is right then she's actually defending her ancestor. How sad. :( Jack forbes (talk) 11:54, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

The problem with people who claim descent from royalty is that they base their assumed descent on one ancestor who just happens to a have the same surname as some English aristocratic family. Unless one can positively link one's own ancestor to that family, it's most likely a coincidence. For example, are all Spencers in American related to Princess Diana?!!! Of course not. Anyroad, Catherine Parr most likely did not leave direct descendants as historians believe her only child died as a child.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:00, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

I did see a programme on geneology which said that a large proportion of people in England could trace their lineage back to royalty. Most of them would be from illegitimate stock as we know the royals going back to the very beginning weren't exactly faithful to their wives. Jack forbes (talk) 12:05, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Well, most people in the British Isles (sorry for the usage) are likely descnded from royalty because in the 16th century the populations of each nation were very small compared to let's say, France or Germany. Another factor, is that back in medieval times, parents probably pimped their pretty daughters. A starving family who had a beautiful daughter would send her to work as a servant in the castle of the local baron with the hope he would notice her, make her pregant, thus the family would be given a pension to live better than their neighbours, with more food, etc., thus their progeny had a higher chance of surviving long enough to produce the next generation.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:15, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

The most important thing to remember about royalty is that they are no different from you or I. The only difference being that we give them money to enable them to live their opulent lifestyle. Jack forbes (talk) 12:22, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Royalty today does not mean what it did in medieval times. Back then, the king or queen was a war lord, with lots of land, manors, and castles, but often very little gold. They derived their crown from violent forebears who won territory by force of arms. I admit I am fascinated by the glamour and mystique of royalty, but I don't feel my family is inferior to theirs.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 12:34, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

I would be willing to bet that they think your family is though. :) Daicaregos (talk) 07:36, 2 June 2010 (UTC)

Probably, seeing as the Queen considered Grace Kelly inferior (!!!!!) I didn't say I like them on an individual basis, but I like the traditions of royalty. Some people I knew in California tried in vain to look down on me because I grew up in a rented apartment after my dad lost all his money; however, because I had a powerful sense of self, they weren't able to. I remember reading a remark made by Louis XIV when one of his nobles complained about the low birth of one of his casual mistresses. He replied that he was so far above everyone else in birth, that he made no distinction between a duke and a cook's daughter!!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 08:48, 2 June 2010 (UTC)

lol. What lovely people. So much for peers of the realm. I too like the traditions of royalty. Well, the ones established in 1789 and continued elsewhere (particularly in 1917), anyway :-D Daicaregos (talk) 09:29, 2 June 2010 (UTC)

Strong Man

[4]

From which quote; "Please inform your readers that Trish Porter is the Official Organiser for IFSA in Ireland. She is organising the Irish Strongest Man competition on 13 March which will be the sole qualifier for the British Strongest Man competition in May."

So the Irish competition feeds Britiain's Strongest Man competition - or at least it did when the competitions were active. MidnightBlue (Talk) 22:11, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

As you can see from this [5], it no longer feeds Britain's strongest man competition, but rather the different UK's strongest man competition. LOL, "and then there were three". A couple of comments and an edit and now I'm the devil. It's only wikipedia Midnight, no need to fall out with me! ;) Jack forbes (talk) 22:22, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

But it did, and I think that's the issue. MidnightBlue (Talk) 22:27, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Yes, it did. The wording will have to reflect that though. Jack forbes (talk) 22:30, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

I would also like to point out that the competition is still active as seen here, so any mention of the previous qualifying rules would probably have to go in the main text rather than the lede. Oh, and I've no idea who came first and second. Jack forbes (talk) 22:52, 1 June 2010 (UTC)

Current events... thinking aloud...

Re: WP:PROPS#Should Breaking Stories be written away from mainspace first?

I'm wondering if the focus was too broad? It occurs to me that the problem in this instance comes largely from it being an "Israel-Palestine" / "Palestine-Israel" / "disputed regions in the Mediterranean/Middle East region" (I.P.P.I.D.R.I.T.M.M.E.R.) issue. Your proposal may be a solution to some of the problems we've seen in the I.P.P.I.D.R.I.T.M.M.E.R. area.

Not sure where I'm going with this... maybe something to throw in next time I.P.P.I.D.R.I.T.M.M.E.R. gets discussed.

Cheers, TFOWR^{idle vapourings} 16:45, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

You may be right (in that it was too broad a proposal), it certainly didn't get much support. Is there usually a centralized discussion on these matters concerning I.P.P.I.D.R.I.T.M.M.E.R? Jack forbes (talk) 16:58, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

One answer to that is: "I so do not know, and I have no intention of finding out, or ever editing in the I.P.P.I.D.R.I.T.M.M.E.R. area. Ever."

Another answer is, I don't know, but I am aware of Wikipedia:Requests for arbitration/Palestine-Israel articles, as I am editing at Gaza flotilla raid (kind of - 3 edits so far, and counting!) and am subject to the 1RR restriction same as every one who edits that article.

Longer answer - I guess I was thinking that this issue occurs periodically, and next time it does this could be a solution. Still thinking aloud, though. Not prepared to commit myself to anything, because this issue is scary.

Cheers, TFOWR^{idle vapourings} 17:06, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

Scary is right. I once got involved (a little) with the Macedonia/Greece dispute and was put on a list of people who were nationalists because of my user page. I thought I was going to be dragged off to a camp somewhere. I imagine you could multiply that kind of reaction a few times over when talking of the Palestine-Israeli disputes. Anyway, let me know if you have any more thoughts on it or if you commit to anything concerning the proposal. Jack forbes (talk) 17:16, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

Will do. I think I may have played some small part in the Macedonia/Greece dispute, not enough to draw a label, though :-( TFOWR^{idle vapourings} 17:26, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

You missed out on all the fun..

over at GoodDays talk page earlier on.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:01, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

Are you referring to the gun laws? I've done a little bit of skeet shooting in the past and even went out hunting rabbit once, many years ago. Elmer Fudd was a better shot. I can't say I enjoyed it that much and don't really see the kick that many people get out of handling guns. Jack forbes (talk) 17:20, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

I lived in Texas for two years. People there own loads of guns!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:22, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

I can imagine. House breaking must be hazardous occupation in Texas. Jack forbes (talk) 17:27, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

Where my mother lived burglary only happened when the owners were out-and guns were normally the hot item to steal! LOL.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 17:31, 3 June 2010 (UTC)

Thank spam!

Hello, Jack forbes (renamed). You have new messages at User:TFOWR/Thankspam.
You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{Talkback}} or {{Tb}} template.

Hope the wikibreak is somewhere nice, Jack! TFOWR 20:50, 11 June 2010 (UTC)

Also... WP:AN#Pending changes trial imminent! sounds like it may address an issue we've discussed recently: "When would it be appropriate to use it?": Its primary targets are pages with "hard to address" vandalism and inappropriate editing, such as very variable IP vandalism, breaking news with high visibility/high vandalism risk issues, BLPs with persistent rumors or internet gossip, or other activity that has usually needed permanent protection. I've only just started paying attention to this (Only just catching up on some stuff: I've been avoiding anywhere where I might need to sound sensible, but that restriction is now over...!) TFOWR 09:39, 12 June 2010 (UTC)

I've been avoiding anywhere where I might need to sound sensible since I joined Wikipedia. :) From what I've read, it appears to be a good idea, but like all good ideas the proof will be in the pudding. Congratulations again on getting the mop. I said I would eat my hat if you didn't make a good one, so no pressure there then. ;) Jack forbes (talk) 12:33, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Well, I could block you, thereby forcing you to engage in some headwear cuisine ;-) Seriously, though, I've already had my "bad block" experience - I unblocked some poor soul I'd blocked in error... I don't know if that qualifies for some hat-eating?!

There do seem to be concerns about "pending changes", but it's only a trial at this point so I'm more curious about how it all pans out. TFOWR 12:42, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

I've taken the liberty of adding you to the "reviewers" group. Let me know if that's not OK. Belonging to this group will enable you to participate in the Pending Changes trial. TFOWR 12:46, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

I think I'll be safe from any headwear cuisine. From my interactions with you I know that you'll use your buttons only when you think them neccessary. If I could give you one little piece of advice it would be to continue with your humorous attitude to this place. Yes, it's a serious project, but it's also a place that needs some lighthearted moments. It's amazing how humour can help defuse most situations. You can now go forth and mop! Jack forbes (talk) 12:57, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Amen to that Jack! Instead of the Beatles All You Need is Love, Wikipedia's theme song should be All You Need is Humour. As you might have noticed, I heeded your advice, Jack, and now peace reigns happily o'er on Sarah's talk page!--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:00, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Glad to hear it, Jeanne. During the voting on TFOWR there where one or two who commented on some of his edit summaries. They just couldn't see the humour in them. One used a diff of a conversation he had with me saying his edit summary had too many exclamation marks. Considering I found it funny (and said so) I have no idea why that diff was used as one of the reasons not to vote for him. This can be a strange place sometimes. Jack forbes (talk) 14:12, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Strange? I would say that's being optimistic, Jack. Bizarre would be the adjective I'd use.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 14:19, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for adding me to the list, but I'd rather not be there as I tend to avoid BLP's, breaking news stories and such. Thanks all the same, TFOWR. Jack forbes (talk) 12:57, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

No worries, consider yourself removed ;-) TFOWR 13:00, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

I hope I wasn't being too presumptious when I gave you my little bit of advice above. I just wouldn't want you getting too serious. ;) Jack forbes (talk) 14:21, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Mate! I always welcome advice, criticism and complaints. I'd far prefer advice to come from friends than from random IPs, but I'm happy with either! So, "too presumptious" - no. Advice, criticism, complaints - always welcome. I'd even suggest that if that policy were to change then you'd need to consider hat-eating...! TFOWR 14:25, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

I've told you before, there won't be any hat eating! Seriously though, I hope you enjoy your use of the extra buttons. More responsibilty can also bring more satisfaction in the project. Jack forbes (talk) 14:50, 14 June 2010 (UTC)

Hi Jack

Nice to see you back.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 18:59, 26 June 2010 (UTC)

Wasn't gone for long, was I. ;) Jack forbes (talk) 19:40, 26 June 2010 (UTC)

Love,hate, love,hate... --Frank Fontaine (talk) 20:48, 26 June 2010 (UTC)

You're back as well I see, Misortie. Good, now the fun and frolics can start up again here. This joint has been as dull as husbands without the pair of you around to liven things up.--Jeanne Boleyn (talk) 07:55, 27 June 2010 (UTC)

You'll have to tell Frank to remove his retired template first. He's as bad as me when it comes to saying their retiring/taking a long break. Jack forbes (talk) 11:08, 27 June 2010 (UTC)

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