User talk:Newyorkbrad/Tribute

Please take time to think of all the good that is here for you and all the good that you have done

Please take the time to think of all of your choices herein. I believe you can share your passion for being a partner here, as well as, a partner of your firm. Maybe you could share the experience strength and hope that you have for Wikipedia with your associates and stay here as yourself. I have grown to admire your work here; see no benefit to the world, if you leave the project. People with your sense of wisdom are needed at Wikipedia, Mr. NYB. I only have whispers of same. Be well and God speed to you. Thank you for your gifts.  :) —Preceding unsigned comment added by 58.0.209.54 (talk) 02:36, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

I, too, hope that you stay with, or return to, Wikipedia. All the best, -- Ssilvers (talk) 04:23, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Fuck. You'll be missed, NYB. Thanks for everything you've done for the project and I wish you best of luck with everything in the future. :) Nishkid64 _{(Make articles, not love)} 14:05, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Sigh. Good luck, sir. :( Lawrence Cohen § t/e 14:11, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

I am very surprised to see this, and I too am sorry that this had to happen. I hope you'll be able to sort out whatever happens to be troubling you at the moment, and return at a later date. Best wishes. Acalamari 15:54, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

A major loss

For my sake – turn again to life and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
Something to comfort other hearts than thine
Complete these dear unfinished tasks of mine
And I, perchance, may therein comfort you.

- A. Price Hughes

• I'm sure that many, many people will post here agreeing with me when I say that I hope you reconsider, and if you can't change your mind I'm equally as sure that everyone will agree that Wikipedia has benefited greatly by your presence and work. You will be missed, both for yourself and for the stellar contributions that were otherwise in your future. Avruch ^T 14:07, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Indeed this is a great loss to the project but knowing how sensible and considerate NYB is I know that he must have considered there to be no option but to leave. If you do decide to come back you will be most welcome but do not do so because we are asking, only if you think it's right to return. Good luck with whatever you are going on to do, James086^{Talk | Email} 14:18, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Stunned. Echo the above sentiments. I wish you the best, sir. Best Regards, Utmost Respect, Thanks and sadness, R. Baley (talk) 14:25, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Absolutely gutted. Whenever I saw your signature I saw the best of comments in front of it. Very best for the future. What a sad day for the project we love. Pedro :  Chat  14:27, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Confused and dumbstruck, but not enough to forget to wish you all the best. Absolutely fantastic, the contributions you've made to the encyclopedia. --barneca (talk) 14:29, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Absolutely stunned - I hope that you stay, but perhaps in due time you will be able to grace us with your presence again; until then you'll be missed. Yours, east.718 at 14:36, April 29, 2008
• Ibid, ditto, etc. You will be missed not only for your excellent editing skills to legal articles as a trained attorney, and your fine work as a sysop and arbitrator here at WP, but also as an online friend and mentor to me and others. Best of luck, and know that you have the support of many here to return when you wish. Bearian (talk) 14:42, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• NOOOO!!! This is the biggest loss in the history of en.wiki. — Rlevse • Talk • 14:44, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Damn I'm gonna miss you! MBisanz ^talk 14:47, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• This is the most significant loss I've seen in my time here. Brad, know that you were greatly appreciated and that you will be greatly missed. But also remember, it's just a website... an online encyclopedia. You've got great things ahead of you and many people wishing the best for you in all of them. You were one of the project's very best and you will not be forgotten. Best regards, Lara❤Love 14:50, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Absolutely stunned. A major pillar in the stability of the wiki has just moved on. Brad, I wish you the best in all you choose to do. Should you ever want to come back, there's a place for you here. If not, peace. - Philippe 14:51, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Best wishes, and good luck. You'll be missed greatly. Ncmvocalist (talk) 15:02, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• You have been one of our best editors. There is no doubt that your departure is a major loss to the project. However, you have all of our thanks for everything you have done, and our best wishes that your life from this day forward is everything you would want it to be. If nothing else, though, please feel free to return at any time to any degree, if only to help keep the quality of our poetry writing a bit better than it is likely to be with you gone. John Carter (talk) 15:08, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Wow, definitely shocking. You'll be missed. Wizardman 15:18, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• This is a shock sudden and most severe, Brad. Your departure marked one of the saddest days of Wikipedia history, and you will always be missed as one of the greatest that the community has lost. I wish you all the best, --PeaceNT (talk) 15:21, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Best wishes in all that you do, we remember all your fantastic work on site - GDonato (talk) 15:47, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Wow. (Stunned silence.) - jc37 20:41, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
• Dammit Brad, come back here this instant! (in shinny new socks of course). --Joopercoopers (talk) 23:28, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Salute to one of the best. You will be missed. Chris (talk) 18:26, 3 May 2008 (UTC)

This sucks :-(

1. --Conti|✉ 15:25, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
2. Lawrence Cohen § t/e 15:27, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
3. - Philippe 15:31, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
4. John Carter (talk) 15:32, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
5. Support. UltraExactZZ ^Claims ~ Evidence 15:35, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
6. Davewild (talk) 15:36, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
7. Keeper | 76 | Disclaimer 15:47, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
8. MBisanz ^talk 15:56, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
9. Indeed. If this is WR's goal, I'm very disdained with them right now; WR is supposed to be a sanity check, not Banned User Revenge Inc. Sceptre ^(talk) 15:59, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

   When has it EVER been anything BUT Banned User Revenge/Troll Central? --Calton | Talk 16:39, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

   In theory, it's supposed to be sanity checking. Sceptre ^(talk) 19:30, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

10. What all of the above said. ++Lar: t/c 16:19, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
11. Could not have said it better myself. Tiptoety ^talk 16:35, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
12. Calton | Talk 16:39, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
13. (edit conflict) the wub "?!" 16:40, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
14. I don't think any editor will ever fill the void...Seraphim♥ ^Whipp 16:52, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
15. Antandrus (talk) 16:53, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
16. Horologium (talk) 17:14, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
17. Very sorry to see you go Brad. Very best wishes to you, --John (talk) 17:16, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
18. Sorry this happened to you and let this be a reminder to everyone else never to post anything online that could reasonably be used to ID you. That includes those Wiki meetup images and profile images that people like to post. EconomicsGuy (talk) 17:19, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

    I'm not sure it helps you to know this but when even those who normally dislike Wikipedia and our community with relentless passion are upset about this it shows what a great guy you are. I'm not sure we'll ever find one person who can replace you. The ability to work with people on both sides of some of our worst conflicts is very rare and is much appreciated and respected. They've gone too far this time. EconomicsGuy (talk) 13:27, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

19. Best wishes. Be happy in real life. ——Martin^phi ☎ Ψ Φ—— 17:32, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
20. This is appalling. I'm very sorry for what's happened here, and it raises questions in my mind about why the Foundation has been so lax in defending editors under attack from sociopaths and griefers. It's also a test for the WR folks. Somey, you have a cancer in your midst; when are you going to cut it out? -- ChrisO (talk) 18:21, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
21. What a loss. Best wishes, --Bfigura ^(talk) 18:23, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
22. With warmest regards, Antelan^talk 18:24, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
23. Lucy Tamayo (talk) 18:24, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
24. Be happy, Brad. We've truly had a loss today. Anthøny 18:27, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
25. Really sucks, a major blow to en.wikipedia. If we were to play the word association game and the phrase was "model Wikipedian," the most common reply by a long shot would be "Newyorkbrad." All the best to you in your future endeavors Brad, and know that you have done work here of which you can be extremely proud.--Bigtimepeace | talk | contribs 18:28, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
26. Depressing. FCYTravis (talk) 18:37, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
27. Yet another casualty of WR, intended or not. Best wishes and let's hope that there won't be more of these in the future... seicer | talk | contribs 18:49, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
28. Folantin (talk) 18:56, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
29. Enigma ^message 18:56, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
30. Bye, then. hbdragon88 (talk) 19:04, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
31. Damn man, sorry to see such an esteemed editor leave like this. Wildthing61476 (talk) 19:49, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
32. Yes. Sandstein (talk) 19:53, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
33. Take care. You'll be sorely missed. KrakatoaKatie 20:16, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
34. — Dragons flight (talk) 20:25, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
35. You were always a voice of good sense. You will be missed. Iain99^{Balderdash and piffle} 20:33, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
36. :( --Kyoko 20:45, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
37. Mike R (talk) 22:16, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
38. Deor (talk) 22:18, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
39. VegaDark (talk) 22:50, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
40. A ton. bibliomaniac15 Do I have your trust? 23:20, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
41. You will be missed. Chinchilla 129.174.91.119 (talk) 23:42, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
42. Your work and legacy here will stand, as long as there is free knowledge and a need for fair and reasoned judgment in developing it. Whenever and in whatever capacity may you may choose to return in future, that will be the right time and the right way.--Pharos (talk) 00:14, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
43. One of our (increasingly rare) voices of reason—you will be sorely missed. Enjoy RL, Brad, where it really matters; the smallest things there far outweigh the most significant Wiki stuff. Fvasconcellos (t·c) 00:21, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

    And this, by the way, will not be forgotten :) Fvasconcellos (t·c) 00:22, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

    I'm beginning to wonder whether these expressions of regret are going to fall in the WP:100 list. John Carter (talk) 00:30, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

44. yes, I hope it makes WP:500! — Rlevse • Talk • 00:31, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
45. I'll miss your monty python quotes. Kwsn (Ni!) 00:52, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
46. SynergeticMaggot (talk) 00:53, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
47. I'm in mourning. Brad, you've been sterling. I'm sorry for the people who won't get to see your example. Noroton (talk) 01:49, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
48. You pointed out some of my missteps and shoved me in the right direction in my early days to Wikipedia. You have left your mark on Wikipedia, a mark that has changed this place for the better. I wish you the best of luck with wherever life take you. Trusilver 02:40, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
49. But thank you for showing us the level of discourse that's possible. Your patience, kindness and intelligence are something for which we must all strive harder. Through your example you contributed much more than I think you realize. Thanks, Brad. --JayHenry (talk) 03:11, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
50. Captain panda 03:13, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
51. "this sucks" is an understatement. You've helped me personally a number of times to be a better Wikipedian, and I will always be in your debt for it. -- Ned Scott 03:18, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
52. Major understatement. We've lost one of our best editors, and it is a loss that will reverberate for years to come. We'll miss you. Titoxd^{(?!? - cool stuff)} 04:07, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
53. Jd2718 (talk) 04:16, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
54. I concur with the title sentiment (yes, I'm often critical of Wikipedia, the point stands) -- Seth Finkelstein (talk) 05:41, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
55. Extremely sad news. A helpful and fine editor and administrator. Your absence will be a great loss to wikipedia.  DDStretch  (talk) 07:02, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
56. Brad, I very much hope you do as I suggested in my email, for your own sake. Regardless, this really really sucks. dihydrogen monoxide (H₂O) 09:10, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
57. I am yet again freshly disgusted by the lengths some sociopaths will go to. As I said in email, I hope you can get backup in dealing with this - David Gerard (talk) 09:43, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
58. This is the saddest day I can remember for Wikipedia. I'm very sorry to see you go Brad.--chaser - t 11:33, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
59. Please return if you can. This is a great loss to the wiki community. Grandmaster (talk) 11:55, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
60. (after edit conflict) You were one of the best editors here - you thoroughly deserved to get the highest number of support votes for a single Wikipedian on this project. Graham87 12:03, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
61. Brad, you were one of The Good Ones. Please reconsider your departure. If you were trolled, well, that goes along with power. It's part of the price of fame. There's a saying though, "One way to judge a man's character, is by who his enemies are." So if trolls hate you, well, good, keep doing whatever it was you were doing.  :) Please, Wikipedia needs you, come back to us. --Elonka 12:24, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
62. I'm very sorry to see you leave. You were the most clear minded and civil user I've ever run across. --PTR (talk) 12:30, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
63. Best wishes. You always seemed to be the wisest and most measured voice. I hope that whatever you are worried about does not happen. qp10qp (talk) 15:12, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
64. Brad, you are a beautiful person and I will miss hearing your voice. This is a sad week for our community. Clayoquot (talk | contribs) 16:24, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
65. llywrch (talk) 17:11, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
66. I am deeply saddened that the situation has led to Wikipedia losing your presence. My best wishes go with you, and I hope that all you turn to in the future finds you at least as successful and appreciated, and hopefully less beset by difficulties, as you have experienced here. Email me anytime, Brad - the puppy is always in for you. KillerChihuahua^?!? 17:57, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
67. . Thanks, SqueakBox 20:17, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
68. One of the best has fallen in the course of duty. You will be missed. --Abd (talk) 20:26, 30 April 2008 (UTC)
69. I didn't always (or often) agree with you but you were one of the few people here who stood up against the nutjobs from both WR's and Jimbo's camp, and tried to fix things instead of bitching about them. I hope at least some members of that wretched little glorified blog are feeling guilty today. — iridescent 00:28, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
70. Damn, I can't say it any better than what's already been posted, but this is terrible and I'm so sorry this happened to you...and to us. I hope you can find a way to come back. Dreadstar † 02:52, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
71. NO WAY! Man, please reconsider... :-( JungleCat Shiny!/Oohhh! 03:53, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
72. Please come back! Masterpiece2000 (talk) 08:28, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
73. I understand the reason NYB left, but it still sucks. I definitely hope he returns when this blows over or is dealt with. Nwwaew (Talk Page) (Contribs) (E-mail me) 13:24, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
74. A huge loss to the community. Shame. Ceoil (talk) 19:51, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
75. Signing, per WP:100. See my thoughts elsewhere on the page. ⇒SWATJester ^{Son of the Defender} 19:55, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
76. Good luck to you; those that wish to attack have robbed Wikipedia of one of its soundest minds and best editors. Best regards, EJF (talk) 22:06, 1 May 2008 (UTC)
77. Brad, I just found out about your departure, though I'm not aware of the exact nature that this "incident" that led to it (though you informed me of such past incidents when we first met). I don't know if you'll read this, or if the email I sent you, but if this means you we won't see you at our meetings any more, you will be sorely missed. You were not only a credit to Wikipedia, but a nice guy with whom it was fun to spend time. Nightscream (talk) 04:23, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
78. The English lanuage is here rendered insufficient to articulate the way I feel about this mess, so I will remain silent here. -- Anonymous Dissident^Talk 06:29, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
79. I hope you will come back, under another name (to avoid those who should be avoided) Huldra (talk) 12:06, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
80. Best wishes, Brad, and Terima kasih. The section header says it all. Cheers, User:Jack Merridew a.k.a. David 12:27, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
81. Sad. But your contributions live on. Novickas (talk) 14:00, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
82. Oh no... I am so sorry to hear this. I hope you will be able to come back to us one day. You will be missed. Kafka Liz (talk) 16:46, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
83. I'm sorry this had to happen. I stand by what I said above. Best wishes. Acalamari 17:28, 2 May 2008 (UTC)
84. Peace. Sluzzelin talk 01:34, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
85. Enormous loss for WP. seresin ( ¡? ) 03:27, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
86. I am very sorry to see you go. You were the arbitrator I had the greatest confidence in. Haukur (talk) 11:34, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
87. This is the last thing I would have expected. —Animum (talk) 14:38, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
88. What can I say? We'll miss you man. Thingg^⊕⊗ 16:19, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
89. One of the finest Wikipedians ever. We'll all miss you. 哦，是吗？(висчвын) 17:59, 03 May 2008 (GMT)
90. I can't say it better than this. Godspeed. Black Falcon ^(Talk) 19:49, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
91. Like a black hole is how this sucks. Long string of expletives deleted. CWC 20:34, 3 May 2008 (UTC)
92. You have benefited the community greatly, and like always on Wikipedia, what comes up must come down. I will miss you greatly, and so will the others. :'( PrestonH 00:06, 4 May 2008 (UTC)
93. I really feel sad at such a sudden departure. I also wish you all the best in your life. --Bhadani (talk) 04:01, 4 May 2008 (UTC)
94. Privacy and the desire for privacy must be respected...Modernist (talk) 15:19, 4 May 2008 (UTC)
95. Good luck, mate - I could say a lot of things others already have, but above all, I wish you the best in whatever or wherever you choose to do in life, and you will be missed on here. Orderinchaos 16:08, 4 May 2008 (UTC)
96. What a ridiculous way to be driven off the project. This is so frustrating. Here's to hoping you'll reconsider down the road. Pascal.Tesson (talk) 19:32, 4 May 2008 (UTC)
97. You were the best editor I have ever seen on this project. This is a testament to how much monumental idiocy can take its toll on us all. I don't think it would ever be possible to replace you. May luck favor you better in your future. GlobeGores (talk page | user page) 01:51, 5 May 2008 (UTC)
98. It's a damn shame. Good luck in everything you do.— Ѕandahl 02:22, 5 May 2008 (UTC)

    

99. Oh goodness...your departure is most definitely a loss to Wikipedia and the community. Singularity 04:37, 5 May 2008 (UTC)
100. This does indeed suck! :( You are missed already! --Versageek 04:50, 5 May 2008 (UTC)
101. I don't think we've ever crossed paths, but I hope you manage to conquer that which drove you away and come back. Don't let others decide for you, on anything, ever. Peace. --Ouro (blah blah) 06:25, 6 May 2008 (UTC)
102. « Milk's Favorite Cookie ^{( talk / contribs)} 20:25, 6 May 2008 (UTC)
103. I started editing Wikipedia as a result of reading your posts as an anon. I'm sorry that you're leaving. Best of luck. --SimpleParadox 20:38, 6 May 2008 (UTC)
104. You will be greatly missed, but we understand that you must do what is best for you and yours. Ruhrfisch _><>°^° 01:32, 7 May 2008 (UTC)
105. NewYorkBrad, I will do whatever it takes to avenge this. BoL (Talk) 03:46, 7 May 2008 (UTC)
106. Ferrylodge (talk) 16:30, 7 May 2008 (UTC)
107. WP:100 Wizardman 19:51, 7 May 2008 (UTC)
108. Jonjonbt, R, Riana and yourself. Thedjatclubrock starts to cry. T^heDJA^tC^lubR^ock :-) ^(T/C) 17:37, 8 May 2008 (UTC)
109. We will miss you. >Radiant< 15:47, 9 May 2008 (UTC)
110. We will all miss you :-(. Good luck, &#151;paranomia (formerly tim.bounceback)^{a door?} 14:58, 11 May 2008 (UTC)
111. Good bye. Wikipedia will miss you LegoK^ontribsT^alkM 21:56, 11 May 2008 (UTC)
112. :-( Chrislk02 ^{Chris Kreider} 17:44, 13 May 2008 (UTC)
113. Brad the project will miss you. Come back some day please. Carlosguitar ^{(Yes Executor?)} 23:33, 13 May 2008 (UTC)
114. Zginder 2008-05-16T16:09Z (UTC)
115. Didn't know you were leaving ... so soon after being elected. I hope you'll come back someday. Daniel Case (talk) 04:31, 18 May 2008 (UTC)
116. ...KGBarnett (talk) 22:48, 18 May 2008 (UTC)
117. Mailer Diablo 12:09, 19 May 2008 (UTC)
118. I have plenty I want to say, but I won't. For those who are gloating about this, I just want you to know you made an outrageously bad move in this case. I am very sorry that it came to this.--Filll (talk) 02:53, 21 May 2008 (UTC)
119. Jack?! 12:23, 31 May 2008 (UTC)
120. I trust you will make a difference to the planet in some other endeavour. In that regard, good luck. I treasure the bit of ground where our paths crossed. Take care. Gosgood (talk) 15:31, 1 June 2008 (UTC)
121. Sorry to see you go. I hope you carry on enjoying WP as a normal user. Stephen B Streater (talk) 09:20, 7 July 2008 (UTC)

Choo Choo

I can't say anything that hasn't already been said more eloquently above. Best of luck, hope to see you return someday. /Blaxthos ( t / c ) 16:22, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Barnstar

		The Barnstar of Peace
		You deserved the Barnstar of Peace a long time ago. Thank you for all you've done; you'll be missed. DurovaCharge! 16:24, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

A Sad Day Indeed

I too am deeply saddened by the incident that lead up to this. You've done a wonderful job as an administrator and arbitratior, and you will be missed. However, I strongly respect your decision to leave, given the situation and circumstances. (I left for the same reason multiple times, and it's why I don't edit now.) I'm sure the decision you made today was not an easy one, leaving a project which you love and have spent a huge amount of time sheparding.

I, among others, would be overjoyed to see your name appear on my watchlist in the future. As you once said to me, however, I'm not going to lobby if you're convinced you should leave, as I'm sure you've thought long and hard about this.

I only hope that in the future, you are happy with the decision you made. We will all certainly miss you. Wikipedia has lost one of its best. Sean William @ 16:54, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Well said. I'm sorry for whatever happened, and very sorry to see you go. ——Martin^phi ☎ Ψ Φ—— 17:30, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• This deeply saddens me. There's not much more I can say. :( Enigma ^message 18:53, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

This is a sad day for Wikipedia. Nothing can be said to express how good a person we've lost. Best wishes to you, Newyorkbrad. The light will be on if/when you return. Nwwaew (Talk Page) (Contribs) (E-mail me) 19:29, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Brad, I'm deeply saddened by what has transpired here. Your departure is an immense loss to the project as yet another moderate, considerate and above all kind person finds it necessary to leave. You were one of the good guys and, personally, I'm really going to miss you. Beir bua, a chara - Alison ^❤ 20:02, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Like others, I'm shocked and saddened by this turn of events. I suggest that Newyorkbrad consider running for one of the higher offices with lower profiles and different time commitments, such as steward or foundation board member. Newyorkbrad has earned enormous good will and trust in the community. His skills and experience would be valuable in a senior position. ·:· Will Beback ·:· 20:38, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Brad, thank you for all you have done for this project and for your generosity in giving your time, knowledge and experience so freely. Your work has been highly valued and very much appreciated. Thank you also for your friendship and the support you have given me personally and many others as well. It has been a pleasure knowing you and working with you and I hope at some point in the future you will feel able to return to the project. Your retirement will be a heavy loss to this project and I cannot see how this is a desirable outcome for anyone, particularly those concerned with fairness and BLPs. Thank you Brad, good luck in the future and please keep in touch. Sarah 02:39, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Seconded all of the above. The thing which distinguished you so persistently was your fairness to all and your willingness to find solutions to problems. Orderinchaos 16:09, 4 May 2008 (UTC)

Godspeed

For all you did. SandyGeorgia (Talk) 19:40, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Dear Newyorkbrad, I wish that the time will come quickly when these events are a distant memory, well behind you in a better place, and that some memory of the good you did and the unparalleled number of people who hold you in the highest regard will replace the sadness. If you need a shoulder, I can hop a train. Good-bye, Godspeed, and be well; you will be missed. Fondest regards, SandyGeorgia (Talk) 19:40, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Vaya Con Dios

1. Newyorkbrad, we hardly knew ye … The Unsung Munchkin (talk) 19:42, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Show's over

Right, enough is enough, time for the big bad wolf to join the feast. There is too much sentiment here. - Brad has left, and unless a miracle happens he is not coming back, it is sad, it is a loss, but it can't be changed. Please evaluate the positive side of this - one of the few RL things known about me is my love of football (take note in certain quarters, if I ever become an Admin, this will help you identify me) and I have never seen such a spectacular own goal in all my life, and neither if you think about have you. We now realise exactly what depths some will sink to discredit this project - so for Brad we stop posting here, we can mourn his loss, but we have learnt a lot. "Others" can never say why do Wikipedians choose to be anonymous? - and we can reply: "because of the personal damage others wish to inflict upon us". So from now on we look, we learn and we laugh at the own goal, and if someone wants a war, well we are winning 1-0, and we have yet to put a ball into the back of the net. Giano (talk) 20:12, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

I must say, upset as I am about this, I too am more than a little angry as well. I'm sure some others besides Giano are. I'd just like to point out to everyone, including myself, that anger simply does not help. There is little that we can do here, but note again that the only, biggest, reason to protect anonymous editing is that a lot of people who create content or keep the peace would simply not be here otherwise. --Relata refero (disp.) 20:50, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Of course, we should ban all cameras from future meet-ups, or wear halloween masks. Good grief. Thatcher 21:59, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

Hmm I'm not sure what occurred, but it seems to be something with cameras, pictures, at a wiki-meet? I took pictures myself but would never post them in public without the explicit permission from those in them--esp. not ones that identify who is who--as well as the permission to take the pictures in the first place. So I don't think we need to ban cameras, just have people respect others personal boundaries and need for privacy. Also, there is always risk when we meet in person (lots of tiny cameras)--so if someone was bent on doing something, there is little we can do. In any case, if something nefarious occurred to chase NYB out, then it is an outrage. I trust that while he will be gone as Newyorkbrad, we will be lucky enough to still have him around later, perhaps as a fast learning newbie. :) I don't see why this would not be possible no matter what happened.Giovanni33 (talk) 01:36, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

And possibly the earliest confirmed admin in the history of wikipedia, if anyone had a hint to who he had been earlier. :) John Carter (talk) 01:44, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Good luck Brad. You've been a great role model for us all. ATren (talk) 03:48, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Good luck in your endeavors. If there is anything that we can do here for you, I am sure I will not be alone to rally and respond. Take good care would ya? ≈ jossi ≈ (talk) 04:52, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

I miss a weekend and find that one of the model editors has been forced out. I hate that this happens, but I'm not sure where to go from here. Cool Hand Luke 05:15, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Giano, you may be a monumental pain sometimes but you do have a knack for putting things just the right way. — iridescent 15:20, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

You have been a Ray of Sunshine to us all

		You are a Ray of Sunshine!
		You know how sometimes you hate checking your watchlist, especially when you see that certain someone or an IP has edited your favorite articles? The Ray of Sunshine is bestowed on that person that, when you see their name at the top of your watchlist, you know that all is right with the world, you can relax, and do something besides cleaning up another mess. May be awarded to any person who consistently brightens your day, but especially where their involvement in something that is bothering you lightens your load. And that's been you, Newyorkbrad. Consistantly. My sincere thanks. - jc37 06:08, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Goodbye.

I, personally, consider your departure the single biggest loss that this community, and Wikipedia itself, has ever sustained. Your skills in dispute resolution, in mediation and in arbitration were legendary and without a doubt some of the best seen. Whether you read this sentiment or not, I am glad to have said that. Godspeed and the best of luck in your future endeavours, wherever they may take you.

Cheers, Josh. -- Anonymous Dissident^Talk 06:39, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

I for one can't say it any better than that. Anthøny 13:37, 4 May 2008 (UTC)

Please come back!

Hello Newyorkbrad. I don't known what to say! I am stunned. Please come back. Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 08:37, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Just come back! We need you! Masterpiece2000 (talk) 08:38, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Well, NYB, you welcomed me. Your guided me when I was new. I will always remember you. Regards, Masterpiece2000 (talk) 09:17, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

Bad, bad loss

moved from AN

Newyorkbrad has gone, good luck to him. Davewild (talk) 14:08, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

• Please note that he has requested "that no explicit reference be made here or elsewhere to the incidents prompting [his] departure". Obviously it will be difficult to prevent this, but I think out of respect for him we should try our best to remind people not to post about what may have caused this. In case that sounds cryptic, nothing bad happened (as far as I know, it was events outside of his control), but I think it is safe to say that he wants to avoid drama over this, both for him and others. Carcharoth (talk) 14:23, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
  • Well, fuck. --barneca (talk) 14:27, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
    • Indeed. He will be greatly missed. Kirill ^(prof) 14:37, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
      • Well said, Barneca. I too hope that drama can be avoided, but this is Wikipedia after all. UltraExactZZ ^Claims ~ Evidence 14:45, 29 April 2008 (UTC)
    • Another casualty that has been claiming one too many administrators lately. seicer | talk | contribs 15:42, 29 April 2008 (UTC)

end quote

The Mighty Defender of the Wiki Barnstar

		The Mighty Defender of the Wiki Barnstar
		hope some day you will join us again greg park avenue (talk) 17:49, 30 April 2008 (UTC)

I feel your pain

As someone who has been physically harassed based on information provided by the (redacted) site, I'm sorry you had to go through this. If anything though, it's highlighted a major danger facing Wikipedians, and hopefully it will spur the foundation into taking action. ⇒SWATJester ^{Son of the Defender} 00:37, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

• I have got to know Newyorkbrad as a balanced and fair Wikipedian and administrator. It's very sad that such valuable contributors are forced to leave the scene just because of few others who are interested only in harassment and privacy violations rather than contributing anything useful to encyclopedia. Anyone attempting to put editors in such position must be placed and kept outside of Wikipedia community. Atabek (talk) 17:11, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

Probably the most respected editor in the history of Wikipedia

Brad, you are probably the most respected editor in the history of Wikipedia. I am disgusted that some scum bag has driven you away. I don't like it when the bad guys win because it encourages them to keep misbehaving. Sbowers3 (talk) 03:40, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

I echo that sentiment: you always will be hugely respected for all you've done, Brad. Anthøny 06:40, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

• Dear Brad, I will miss you. I was only just beginning to get to know you, but your posts were always wise, insightful and right on the mark. I'm quite sure the world will continue to benefit greatly from your presence whether you are posting on Wikipedia or spending your time in some other worthwhile activity. Coppertwig (talk) 11:11, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

Bye

I never met you, but I wish I had...... Dendodge.Talk^Help 22:05, 1 May 2008 (UTC)

Same as Dendodge. Juliancolton ^{Tropical Cyclone} 02:27, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

Me too... Waltham, The Duke of 08:55, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

Goodbye, Brad

To one of the best admins we ever had, one of the best arbitrators we never got a real chance to have, and one of the damn finest people we've seen. I wish you the very best of luck wherever your life may take you. Seraphimblade ^{Talk to me} 00:24, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

The future

Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!  :) Sincerely, --Le Grand Roi des Citrouilles^Tally-ho! 14:46, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

I wish you the best of luck for whatever you want to do in the future, I never got to know you will but I do know that your contributions are respected, and I am shocked by your sudden departure. Goodbye and good luck! Camaron | Chris (talk) 17:02, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

All of Wikipedia's a stage...

...and all the editors merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts. Yours will be sorely missed. --Hemlock Martinis (talk) 23:49, 2 May 2008 (UTC)

A poem

He joined us two years ago
  Lurking in the shadows
And after a while, he was
  Placed among our hallows

Not a soul knew not his name
  After his RfA
A denizen of this site
  Contribute? Yes, he may!

But now we all are left here
  Because of circumstance
He had to leave abruptly
  Oh, what horrible chance!

Since typing something would be too easy... —Animum (talk) 17:12, 4 May 2008 (UTC)

Come back

You should register a new, anonymous account and come back, like other vanished editors have done before. Grandmasterka 22:30, 4 May 2008 (UTC)

The random consequence of anonymous editing?

I have huge respect for Newyorkbrad: his intelligence, full and considered comments, his commitment to Wikipedia and his sense of fair-play. He will read this and recognise that people wish him well, and also wish him to return either as NYB or as a new user. I hope he will reconsider his retirement and come back.

This situation does prompt some thinking because the issue of anonymous editing on Wikipedia is interesting and can cause conflict and criticism.

With some individuals it can lead to a sense of impunity and invulnerability which may lead these people to say and do things they would not if having to account personally, and then having crossed the barrier of personal and individual responsibility they feel the need to retire if their name becomes known. NYB does not fall in this group. NYB has done nothing as far as I'm aware that should cause him embarrassment. His behaviour on Wikipedia has been exemplary.

However, some employers can become uncomfortable if they discover that an employee is a high profile Wikipedia contributor and may ask their employer to reconsider their Wikipedia activities because Wikipedia attracts conflict and criticism which may then be directed at the company. I'm not saying that is what has happened with NYB - I'm just using this situation to explore some thoughts.

It may be worthwhile to consider that if a user is about to assume a high profile role in future - such as an arbitrator - that the user discusses the issue with their employers and their family and ponders on the random consequences of being named, and their place or work also being revealed, and images of their family and pets being posted on the internet (as has happened with other Wiki editors).

It would seem to me that advance preparation of this possible scenario should be taken, and that some form of advice and counseling is provided for candidates for high profile positions. As a community we can all take some responsibility here for NYB's situation. Let's not just offer NYB our condolences, give him a FA and walk away. Let's really learn from this, because we have lost a valued and highly respected team member because - despite other instances of forced retirements - we haven't done anything to prevent it happening again.

Let's do something now. SilkTork *^YES! 11:33, 5 May 2008 (UTC)

Currently, there's a discussion at Wikipedia:Village_pump_(policy)#Privacy_and_Outing (several subsections). ---Sluzzelin talk 11:59, 5 May 2008 (UTC)

Yes. Thanks for that - the discussions are related, though not quite the same. I am considering moving the content of this over there, but the statement above was prompted by discovering what had happened to Newyorkbrad, and it feels somehow odd to move it around just to get a reaction. If a conversation picks up here that might be the point at which it could be moved - but if nobody is interested, then so be it - I was moved to make a statement, and I made that statement. SilkTork *^YES! 14:20, 5 May 2008 (UTC)

Please reconsider

Wikipedia will never be the same without you, please,please return! Britishrailclass91 (talk) 18:22, 5 May 2008 (UTC)

Melt the clouds of sin and sadness, drive the dark of doubt away!

Joy

 Marlith (Talk)  has given you a kitten! Kittens promote Wikilove and hopefully this one has made your day better. Share the WikiLove and civility with everyone and keep up the excellent editing! Send kittens to others by adding {{subst:Joy message}} to their talk page with a friendly message.

 Marlith (Talk)  00:18, 6 May 2008 (UTC)

What everyone said

Please come back! More Wikipedia users have left this month and the previous month than any other month! Interactive Fiction Expert/Talk to me 06:19, 7 May 2008 (UTC)

And guess what, more became active in this month than in any other month, but who we really need is NYB, hope you read this! Jussen (talk) 08:06, 10 May 2008 (UTC)

Meetups?

Drop somebody a line if you plan on going to the future NYC Wikipedia meetups. I'd love to say thanks in person. Good luck with real life --Sharkface^T/_C 19:26, 11 May 2008 (UTC)

Goodbye!

Goodbye, Newyorkbrad. I hope I will see you again someday.

1. ≈ MindstormsKid 17:47, 14 May 2008 (UTC)
2. Sebastian (talk) 05:02, 18 May 2008 (UTC)

Have fun

I have seem many editors close to me leave because of real life situations, and I wish them luck in anything you do. Just like many did when LaraLove left, I respect your decision. I'm sad, but you are your own master. In thee words of John Lennon (I think he sung it): Let it Be. Although I didn't know you, I'm sure my time here would've been better if it was. Good luck.  Mm40 (talk | contribs)  22:54, 24 June 2008 (UTC)

Good night, and good luck.

This is Jonathan from IP. When I heard you were leaving, my mouth gapped open and greif of a virtual death (not real, thank God) immediately set in.....good bye, NYB, and best wishes. —Preceding unsigned comment added by 69.29.90.73 (talk) 00:21, 27 June 2008 (UTC)

A Terrible Loss

This is a terrible loss, a huge door has closed, but remember, it is usually when a huge door closes, that a huge one opens. Good bye and goodluck   «l| Ψrom3th3ăn ™|l»  (talk)

Stay strong

You did a lot of good, and we are grateful for what you've done. I hope to see you on these pages again soon. -- Y not? 11:46, 11 July 2008 (UTC)

Tribute article:peer reviewers required

I expect watchlisters of this page will remember that it was proposed to bring Learned Hand to FA as a tribute to Newyorkbrad. (In his farewell message, he said, "I am sorry for the pages that never got written and the FA that never got done"—the article he alluded to was Learned Hand.) Well, at long last we are closing in on FA. Slp1 and I have now placed the article at Peer Review, here, and we would very much appreciate your reviews to help us iron out any problems before we go to FAC (the last thing we want is to take a tribute article there if it could fail). May I just add that I came to admire Learned Hand when working on this article; when I think back on NYB's meticulous and tolerant opinions at arbitration, etc., it is clear that he comes from the same stock as his hero. qp10qp (talk) 13:54, 26 July 2008 (UTC)