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Reconsider?

This comes like a shock to me. It seems more and more good people are leaving. I wish you do well whether leave or decide to stay, but remember that your contributions here are well appreciated. Mohamed CJ (talk) 16:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Support that, shock, seems, wish and appreciate ( Precious #3), -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 17:14, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Very surprised to see you retire. Why was this? I hope it was nothing to do with what was said on Eric's talk page as that would be silly. You're entitled to say or think what you like of other editors but not everybody necessarily will fully agree. It isn't a reason to retire anyway. ♦ Dr. Blofeld 17:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Have a safe retirement, Khazar, and hopes that you continue to fight the good fight on another front (though, of course, I did buy a new book on Udin... and apparently there is a court case going on, but no suspect). —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 17:57, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • You were within spitting distance of your goals for 2013! I hope this is just one of those "heat of the moment" things. If not, best to you and the little Khazar. Curly Turkey ( gobble) 19:00, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Oh, man, this really blows. I hope you will come back. Taylor Trescott - my talk + my edits 19:15, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I am very sad to see this, seeing as I was just starting to get the chance to work with you on the UN stuff. You are valued, and I hope you reconsider after a nice long break. -- Laser brain (talk) 19:24, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm also sad to see this. Khazar is one of the kindest, most helpful editors around. I hope he does what's best for him, but he should know that if he returns after a rest he'll be welcomed with open arms. SlimVirgin (talk) 19:29, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Hey, thanks all--I really appreciate the kindness. Really it's sudden only in its timing, though I should have explained better on my page. I've been mulling this over for a while and took a month's wikibreak in October for similar reasons; as exciting as this project still is to me, I'm just burnt out on the environment. Today I happened to see a thread that made me think "y'know, I'm done", but if it hadn't been today, it would have just been something tomorrow.
But I've got no regrets. I feel like I had a good run here, wrote some good articles and met a lot of good folks, and am ready to move on to whatever's next. (All that said, I did try to retire two years ago and it didn't stick--so it'd be overdramatic for me to say I'm gone for good for sure.) In any case, it's been a pleasure working with all of you! Cheers, and keep up the good work, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 19:31, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I saw the impetus which broke the camels back and it's sickening.-- MONGO 19:47, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Wow, what a blow for Wikipedia. I hope you realize how much you are appreciated (by me and others). Take some time to mentally recuperate and then come back soon, rejuvenated! Ruby 2010/ 2013 20:54, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
    • To reiterate what Ruby says above. You are appreciated and thank you for the great work over the years even in the face of a Wikipedia that WP:SUCKs. Now go enjoy your life.Regards, Sun Creator( talk) 21:18, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I don't blame you. Wikipedia is a hobby and if you can't enjoy it, don't force yourself to continue. Maybe this community will eventually get the message and try to clean up the incivility. It will probably be too late by that point. Automatic Strikeout ( ) 21:33, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I hope you enjoy your retirement. You are an amazing editor and person—an example for many of us. You've made my experience here worthwhile, and I am grateful to have bumped into you in this project. Don't ever forget you have many friends here (including me) who admire you. All the best, ComputerJA ( ) 21:37, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'll miss you too, and I hope you again raise the enthusiasm to return. Take it easy. Yngvadottir ( talk) 22:03, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Saddened. I do hope you return, when the time is right. Kindest and fondest regards to you and yours. From Irondome ( talk) 23:03, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Well, let me explain this to you. You cannot leave! Don't do this to us me! We will miss you a lot, Khazar :( — ΛΧΣ 21 23:05, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I just thought I'd let you know how much I've enjoyed collaborating with you on the GA reviews for Jelena Balšić and Treblinka extermination camp. Your commitment to the project has been truly inspiring, and even if you never come back, I hope that my contributions to Wikipedia can fill some small part of the void you'll leave behind. But you've left and come back once before, so I hope you do so again! AmericanLemming ( talk) 00:20, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks everybody, I'm really overwhelmed by your kindness. I'll have to remember to print this page tomorrow to keep in the Life File. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks much. It's an odd send-off that one of my GAs got 200,000 hits the day I retired--wish it could be under other circumstances than that sad news, though. (FWIW, though, User:MidnightBlueOwl did far more than me on that.) -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:34, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks! I think clicking through to see the conversation on that talk page would be madness for me at this point, but I will happily take your word for it. I'll miss working with you, Gerda, but I appreciate your understanding. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:12, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • So I repeat it here (excuse third person): "Khazar: when he left the first time, I was shocked. The second time I cried (and I don't do that often). When he gave us the Million Award for Kafka, I said: "For those who don't know: I am proud of editor retention, and won Khazar twice! Looking at the results, that may have been the best I did here." - Now, I let him go where he wishes to go." -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 16:28, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks, Gerda. You still deserve the credit for getting me back here for these past two years of work. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 17:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Man oh mayonnaise. I'm sad to see you go. When I first ran into you, no more than a couple of months ago, I was instantly struck by how nice you were. Unlike so many other people on this site, you were complimentary, not prickly. You took the time to answer people's question in a thorough way, and I never detected a hint of anger in anything you wrote. Then I saw all the content you've contributed—on very meaningful topics, not just silly pop culture trivia like me—and I was doubly impressed. What can I say? Please come back. Bobnorwal ( talk) 06:37, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thank you for all that you have done. All the best, and I hope to see you back. EddieHugh ( talk) 14:31, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks, Dragon, Bob, and Eddie for the kind words--it was a pleasure working with you all as well! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:38, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Sad to see you leave and a loss for Wikipedia certainly. But I would never encourage people to volunteer in an environment where they don’t thrive. I guess sometimes a pause can help; sometimes not. Good luck with your other efforts . Best regards, Iselilja ( talk) 20:54, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I've enjoyed collaborating with you on the GA review for Jelena Balšić. Take care!-- Antidiskriminator ( talk) 21:28, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • It was a pleasure collaborating with you, too-- cheers, Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • This is sad. Only had a couple of contacts with you but seen plenty of your work. Big loss for WP. DeCausa ( talk) 13:30, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • My thoughts are very similar to the above - it is definitely sad to see you leaving, and I very much hope you choose to return in the future - it was great working with you. Hchc2009 ( talk) 18:44, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Khazar your work here, across a huge of array of topics, is greatly appreciated and your departure will likewise be a huge loss for the encyclopedia. It was good to work with you, even though I regret we did not collaborate more often. I hope the temptation of editing will eventually render your retirement a vacation. If not, farewell and make sure you stay productive! We'll do our best to continue the work you started. Regards, -- Al Ameer ( talk) 20:26, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Hey man what a heartbreak you have given to all of us. You won't believe but after seeing that banner I was thinking about you only in my real life. And the weight that I have got in my heart, I seriously wish I wouldn't have met you. But at the same time I do wish all the best in your real life. I am sure that you'll keep on fighting for the good cause a fighter that you are. But man there is only one sin that you would accumulate a lot for sure in your real life and that is breaking hearts of your well wishers. All the best. We respect your decision. Have a very prosperous, satisfying and successful real life! C Ya -- Seabuckthorn  04:58, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm sad to hear you're leaving, Khazar2. Our paths crossed only a few times, but I have admired your quality of work and dedication in bringing human rights articles to Good Article status. Your work has helped inspire me to start working to bring articles up to GA status, which is something I have not been very involved with in the past. I'm sad we won't be tackling Democracy together, but I completely understand your reasons for leaving. You will be missed, and I do hope our paths cross again someday. Take care. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 15:52, 15 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • And for what it's worth, I agree with you that Wikipedia treats its civility policy as a joke, particularly when incivility comes from the "popular kids", and that doing so is antithetical to building a stable project. What's unfortunate is that the more incivility is tolerated, the more Wikipedia is likely to drive away high-quality editors like yourself, who value building an encyclopedia and aren't here to get off on belittling others. And the fewer editors like you we have around, the worse it will become. But by no means should anyone feel forced to remain in an unhealthy environment for the sake of that environment; lately, I've been less inclined to participate myself due to the hostility on this project, and it's a good part of why I'm currently on a semi-wikibreak (which, in turn, is why I didn't see your retirement decision over the past few days). Whatever you do next, I hope you find it amicable and fulfilling, and I wish you the best. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 16:14, 15 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm sorry to hear about this, although I certainly respect your decision - I hope that you will return in the future, and I think that until then, it will be Wikipedia's loss. KConWiki ( talk) 19:14, 31 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Ah, Khazar, somehow I missed hearing about your retirement, although I did notice I hadn't seen you around much. All the best with everything. I really appreciated your kind reviews. Sorry to see you go! Moisejp ( talk) 16:19, 1 March 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Random (infrequent contributor, constant user). I hope people like you will continue contributing - I just found you by looking at who it was who thoughtfully added information about Johan Teterisa. I think articles like that are some of the most important on wikipedia - the distribution of knowledge, in this case, really is helping to protect someone. I hope you come back. And about some editors being uncivil or whatever - I figure that happens in all parts of life sometimes, better to ignore them and get on with it, maybe? Thanks again Lionfishy ( talk) 13:17, 8 May 2014 (UTC) (a random, global citizen!) reply
  • I'm late to this party but you were one of the editors I really enjoyed working with. Sorry to see you go and good luck with your future endeavors. 87Fan ( talk) 23:05, 9 September 2014 (UTC) reply

A message of WikiLove

This giraffe is extremely sad to see you go, but wants to let you know how much it appreciates all the quality work you're done for Wikipedia. (I can tell all that, just by looking at its expression.)

It also hopes you return soon, and it thinks you're one of the best. I've never been one to argue with a giraffe, and I'm not going to start now. Quadell ( talk) 19:13, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

It is a hard face to argue with. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 19:32, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Disappointing

The Friendship Barnstar
It has been an extreme pleasure to work with you at WP:WER/Editor of the Week. Your nominations kept the place going and they will be missed. Please know that the door is always open. ``` Buster Seven Talk 19:45, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
It was a pleasure working with you as well, my friend. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Tireless Contributor Barnstar
This is you - a seemingly tireless contributor, although all of us can get tired of the at times confrontational community structure. Take a nap, but please don't leave us permanently, as I for one will certainly miss your work at both EotW and in GA reviews, predominantly for sports articles. We need excellent content contributors such as yourself. Best regards, Go Phightins ! 21:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Go Phightins! I've always admired your contributions even if you are a Phillies fan. Wikipedia is all about building bridges, I say... -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Original Barnstar
You told it like it is. You stood up to the bully. Unfortunately, standing up to the bully doesn't work here because the bully has too many friends. It's no surprise that the bully treated you like you were inferior, but your pedigree shows that your contributions were very important and should not be overlooked. Too bad that doesn't matter to the bully. Automatic Strikeout ( ) 22:11, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks--I appreciate the thought, but honestly, if I had stood up to the bully (clarification: Eric Corbett), I would have said something a year ago, and kept saying it. Instead I avoided the growing mess until I was so sick of him and those like him that I decided to leave the project, and didn't even read the thread that presumably grew from my post (or not). I'm glad I said something but it wasn't my most courageous hour, sadly. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sad to see it

The Barnstar of Integrity
I, like many others, am sad to see you leave. In my short time under your mentorship, I learned a lot about what it means to be a Good Articles reviewer, a good editor, and generally a good member of the project. I got a real sense of the respect held by many for you, and of the great contribution you made to Good Articles, human rights, and Wikipedia as a whole. You were in many ways an inspiration, so I wish you and your family all the best, and I do hope that something down the line entices you back to the project when you feel refreshed. If there is ever anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask. — Sasuke Sarutobi ( talk) 22:44, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Cheers, Sasuke. It was a pleasure working with you--good luck with your reviewing! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Why!?

This kitten is very said that you're retiring. Just wanted to let you know that your contributions will never be forgotten.

buff bills 7701 01:58, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, buffbills--much appreciated. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:03, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Random Acts of Kindness Barnstar
Best of luck. Sad to see you go . Sportsguy17 ( talkcontribssign) 03:05, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Sportsguy-- good luck with that MLB nomination! Remind someone to give you the right level of the Million Award if it passes, or just claim it! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:34, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Really?

Usually I just shrug off seeing retired messages. I know that 95% of the people that put those up are annoying users who just come back the next day after baiting everyone. Unfortunately the 5% are generally quality users that we don't want to see leave, and you're definitely in that camp. Hopefully you'll simply take some time off and return later on. Seemed like GAN was finally working somewhat well for a while with you taking the reins on reviews... Wizardman 03:22, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Wizardman. You're an editor I've always looked up to for your long-term leadership at GA, and so I doubly appreciate the kind words. Right now I do plan to be gone for good, but there's no telling what the future may hold; perhaps I'll feel differently in a few months or a year. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:38, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Hey Khazar2, sorry to see you go. Think about coming back to edit occasionally, instead of nonstop. Wikipedia's a nice little hobby when done in moderation, despite the people referred to at the top of my user page. I very much enjoyed working with you a little bit. Cheers. Anythingyouwant ( talk) 04:15, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, it was a pleasure working with you, too. And you're right, part of my frustration has definitely been using Wikipedia as a 40-50 hour a week substitute workplace since leaving my teaching position; it's just not a healthy enough environment for that, despite the many great people here. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I, too, am sorry to see you go, Khazar2. I was disappointed to watch INeverCry walk away and watching this is no better. Given enough time, any Wikipedian that isn't banned eventually shows up on the "Missing Wikipedians" list with or without an explanation. All but the most unhinged megalomaniacs and self-righteous obsessives succumb to frustration and alienation on Wikipedia. Chris Troutman ( talk) 08:43, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Chris. I've always appreciated that thorough GA review you gave me and your other good contributions here. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I am also sorry to see you go. I hope you reconsider. In any case, best of wishes to you and the missus.-- Wehwalt ( talk) 11:03, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I don't think it's likely at this point, but I can tell you that if I ever return, it'll be to tackle that Jimmy Carter expansion with you--the one project I regret not getting to. Anyway, thank you for all your amazing work here; you were always one of my favorites to read at GAN. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

You've definitely made Wikipedia a more enjoyable place to collaborate. After we put so many hours into this place, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that this is, after all, just freakin' Wikipedia. I think we have something really cool going with this project, but it isn't worth compromising your health or sanity. I'm glad you're doing what makes the most sense to you right now. EricEnfermero HOWDY! 07:55, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Eric, for the kind note--keep up your good work! Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Best of luck to you, and know that you are always welcome back! BOZ ( talk) 16:09, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Boz. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:10, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library's Books and Bytes newsletter (#2)

Welcome to the second issue of The Wikipedia Library's Books & Bytes newsletter! Read on for updates about what is going on at the intersection of Wikipedia and the library world.

Wikipedia Library highlights: New accounts, new surveys, new positions, new presentations...

Spotlight on people: Another Believer and Wiki Loves Libraries...

Books & Bytes in brief: From Dewey to Diversity conference...

Further reading: Digital library portals around the web...

Read Books & Bytes

The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs) 16:48, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Why are you leaving?

It is so sad that you have to leave. You're one of the project's most prolific editors, and despite your being here for less that two years, everyone wants you to keep editing. Don't retire—just take a long wikibreak and come back whenever it suits you. Epicgenius ( talk) 19:35, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

I second that sentiment. Toccata quarta ( talk) 19:48, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I guess this might help explain: User:Khazar2/leaving. Mohamed CJ (talk) 19:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks all, much appreciated! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thank you

Thank you very much for your valuable article contributions during your time on this wiki. Also appreciated are your many thoughtful and comprehensive GA reviews and the many other ways you sought to help. I hope to see you editing again someday. Best wishes, -- Diannaa ( talk) 22:11, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thank you, Diannaa! Our collaboration on Auschwitz was one of my favorite things I did on Wikipedia. If I ever do come back I'll be sure to drop a line and maybe we can finally tackle Holocaust... or at least Nuremberg trials. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I just saw where you have decided to retire. I am sorry to see you go. I also hope you will decide to return someday. THANK YOU for all you have done herein. Cheers, Kierzek ( talk) 16:24, 29 December 2013 (UTC) reply

I was afraid...

...you might have left when the Dmowski's GA suddenly evaporated, but I hoped I was wrong. Still, I swung by here today... and sadly, that's the case. First, let me say that it's been a pleasure working with you, and I am sad too see you go. Second. I read your statement, and I understand quite well where you are coming from; I wrote about this very issue years ago. In the end, despite the flaws of this project, I decided to stay, because for all the bullies, trolls and morons, the project still delivers something immensely valuable. Of course, slugging it out with certain characters is not fun, but the solution that I found was to avoid controversial topics and editors, and focus on writing "for fun". No troll or foul mouthed fratboy can take away our joy from adding another DYK or GA to the stack. It has worked for me for the last few years quite well. So take a break, for however long you feel you need it, but remember: Wikipedia is a great idea, and we can still have fun on it. -- Piotr Konieczny aka Prokonsul Piotrus| reply here 08:24, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Piotrus. I enjoyed working with you, too--I've learned quite a bit of interesting Polish history from our collaborations at GAN. Someone recently suggested a similar strategy to me of no longer using Wikipedia's watchlist feature so that you can just focus on adding or revising one article at a time; if I ever do return, I think it'd be like that. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A blanket thanks and logging out

Okay, I'll stop trying to keep up with the many kind wishes here, but let me just say one last thanks to everybody. I've saved a copy of this and will long look back at it and smile. All best and happy holidays, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 17:38, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

In Latin: Forsan et haec olim meminisse iuvabit. And thanks in return to you for sure. Collect ( talk) 15:13, 9 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sorry you're retiring -- here's wishing you well

I'm awfully sorry to see that you've retired. I hope my bugging you with GA questions wasn't a cause of your departure. I'm so appreciative of your support and am not sure what I'll do without my mentor. I'm one forlorn grasshopper! Best wishes to you.-- Jburlinson ( talk) 21:28, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Your GA nomination of United Nations

Hi there, I'm pleased to inform you that I've begun reviewing the article United Nations you nominated for GA-status according to the criteria. This process may take up to 7 days. Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you might have during this period. Message delivered by Legobot, on behalf of TonyTheTiger -- TonyTheTiger ( talk) 06:01, 7 December 2013 (UTC) reply

  • Tony has withdrawn from the review owing to the ongoing interaction ban. —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 09:31, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Peace out

-- Mark Miller ( talk) 08:14, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks!

Thanks so much for nominating me for Editor of the Week! It means a lot to me that you, Go Phightins! ( talk · contribs), and Buster7 ( talk · contribs) all appreciate all the work I try to do! WikiRedactor ( talk) 18:18, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sad to see you go

You will be greatly missed! Thanks for your contributions, GA reviews, and for in general making Wikipedia a nicer and more friendly place to be. Wishing you all the best, -- 1ST7 ( talk) 03:52, 10 December 2013 (UTC) reply

You've got mail!

Hello, Khazar2. Please check your email; you've got mail! The subject is Major League Baseball.
Message added 03:03, 11 December 2013 (UTC). It may take a few minutes from the time the email is sent for it to show up in your inbox. You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{ You've got mail}} or {{ ygm}} template.

Sportsguy17 ( talkcontribssign) 03:03, 11 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Special Barnstar
This is for your efforts on Wikipedia. I'm so sorry to hear that you have retired. You have been a great contributor and I appreciate all of your efforts. I hope you reconsider your retirement. Best of luck in your future endeavors. Best wishes, Lord Sjones23 ( talk - contributions) 21:14, 12 December 2013 (UTC) reply

HighBeam

Hey Khazar, I've archived your HighBeam application because of your retirement - if you do decide to come back, just let me know and we can look at getting you access. Nikkimaria ( talk) 20:36, 16 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Please don't go !!!

You're one of our strongest quality contributors on topics of freedom of speech, censorship, and human rights!

I hope you will take some time to rest and reconsider.

Thanks very much for your many many many varied and high quality contributions,

Cirt ( talk) 04:46, 20 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Seasons Greetings!

-- TriiipleThreat ( talk) 13:28, 23 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Reconsider?

Hi, I interacted with you only once but kept a watch on your work. Sorry to see you go, best of luck for the future. I hope you'll come back. Soham ( talk) 14:17, 23 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A Holiday Turkey!

Adding music, the Christmas Story: A Boy was Born, - more on my talk, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 14:06, 25 December 2013 (UTC) reply

-- Diannaa ( talk) 16:52, 25 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Glad Tidings and all that ...

FWiW Bzuk ( talk) 20:14, 26 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Dear K2:

Well done and thanks!

Military history reviewers' award
For reviewing five MILHIST Good article nominations during the period October to December 2013, I am pleased to award you the Wikistripes. Peacemaker67 ( send... over) 07:45, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Keep track of upcoming reviews. Just copy and paste {{ WPMILHIST Review alerts}} to your user space

Mail time

Hello, Khazar2. Please check your email; you've got mail!
It may take a few minutes from the time the email is sent for it to show up in your inbox. You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{ You've got mail}} or {{ ygm}} template.

Sadads ( talk) 17:05, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

A cup of tea for you!

Sorry to see you go. I hope you and yours have a great 2014. Maybe we'll see you back here someday, but if not, you left a hell of a legacy. Take care. INeverCry 22:36, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Your GA nomination of United Nations

The article United Nations you nominated as a good article has passed ; see Talk:United Nations for comments about the article. Well done! Message delivered by Legobot, on behalf of Chris troutman -- Chris troutman ( talk) 19:42, 12 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Good! - Did you see that I closed too? Back on reduced energy ;) -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 20:06, 12 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Million Award

The Million Award
For your contributions to bring United Nations (estimated annual readership: 2,400,000) to Good Article status, I hereby present you with would could be the first ever post-retirement Million Award. Congratulations on this rare accomplishment, and thanks for all you have done for Wikipedia's readers. Quadell ( talk) 12:05, 13 January 2014 (UTC) reply

The Million Award is a new well-established initiative to recognize the editors of Wikipedia's most-read content; you can read more about the award and its possible tiers (Quarter Million Award, Half Million Award, and Million Award) at Wikipedia:Million Award. You're also welcome to display this userbox:

This editor won the Million Award for bringing United Nations to Good Article status.

Books & Bytes New Years Double Issue

Books & Bytes

Volume 1 Issue 3, December/January 2013

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Happy New Year, and welcome to a special double issue of Books & Bytes. We've included a retrospective on the changes and progress TWL has seen over the last year, the results of the survey TWL participants completed in December, some of our plans for the future, a second interview with a Wiki Love Libraries coordinator, and more. Here's to 2014 being a year of expansion and innovation for TWL!

The Wikipedia Library completed the first 6 months of its Individual Engagement grant last week. Here's where we are and what we've done:

Increased access to sources: 1500 editors signed up for 3700 free accounts, individually worth over $500,000, with usage increases of 400-600%
Deep networking: Built relationships with Credo, HighBeam, Questia, JSTOR, Cochrane, LexisNexis, EBSCO, New York Times, and OCLC
New pilot projects: Started the Wikipedia Visiting Scholar project to empower university-affiliated Wikipedia researchers
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Tech scoped: Spec'd out a reference tool for linking to full-text sources and established a basis for OAuth integration
Broad outreach: Wrote a feature article for Library Journal's The Digital Shift; presenting at the American Library Association annual meeting
... Read Books & Bytes!

Hi. I saw you hangin' 'round WP:GAN and such, and I looked into why you left. I agree - this place is becoming harder to stay in because editors do tend to try to run each other out. I've had at least one experience like that in the last year, and I can expect many more from the looks of things.

Anyway, I am adding you to the page in the section title of this post. You were a great contributor and this will serve as a reminder of what you did here, when you left and why you left. If you don't want to be on that list, or if you ever change your mind and decide to come back, feel free to remove yourself from that list. If you want to remain kept off the list, I recommend using an edit summary to say this so it'll be there when other editors look at your contributions list.

Regardless, I hope this finds you well and I'm sorry to see you go. God bless, Lazy Bastard Guy 00:44, 16 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Please come back

I noticed you had left when I saw someone had added you to WP:MISS. Like all the people above, I wish you were still active here. I have never been active in the area of reviewing GANs, as you apparently were. However, I have noticed your many AWB-assisted contributions, particularly on recently created pages. I hope you will someday change your mind about Wikipedia being too hateful an environment for you to work in. Jinkinson talk to me 16:40, 16 January 2014 (UTC) reply

I found Wikipedia:Million Award today and was overjoyed. Very good thinking. Very sad to see that you have left. -- Ettrig ( talk) 14:47, 17 January 2014 (UTC) reply
Like all of the above editors, I am sorry to see you go. You are an excellent editor and Wikipedia is worse off for your retirement. Perhaps you just need some time off and will return to editing. All of us at Wikipedia hope that is the case. SMP0328. ( talk) 21:12, 18 January 2014 (UTC) reply
It is a blow to loose you. You have always been unfailingly helpful and polite and I wanted you to know I have really appreciated all you have done.-- SabreBD ( talk) 21:35, 18 January 2014 (UTC) reply
Rather than clutter your talkpage with another section, just thought I'd add to this one with how much I miss your presence at GAN. It occurred to me the other day that I hadn't seen you around for a while, and then I decided to see what had happened. Hope you decide to come back one day, and know that the people who appreciate your work far outweigh those who don't. Till then, MasterOfHisOwnDomain ( talk) 23:00, 26 February 2014 (UTC) reply

DYK for United Nations

Thanks for helping the wiki Victuallers ( talk) 16:02, 19 January 2014 (UTC) reply

A good legacy! Quoting from the edit notice of another of my missing friends: The only real nation is humanity, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 16:23, 19 January 2014 (UTC) reply
-- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 07:22, 18 April 2014 (UTC) reply

I only just heard about your departure

Sad news, but I understand your reasoning. People come and go, but their impact is seldom forgotten. If you ever change your mind, know that you'll always be welcome back here. Kurtis (talk) 22:38, 22 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Orphaned non-free image File:Crete, Charles Ginnever, 1976-78.jpg

⚠

Thanks for uploading File:Crete, Charles Ginnever, 1976-78.jpg. The image description page currently specifies that the image is non-free and may only be used on Wikipedia under a claim of fair use. However, the image is currently not used in any articles on Wikipedia. If the image was previously in an article, please go to the article and see why it was removed. You may add it back if you think that that will be useful. However, please note that images for which a replacement could be created are not acceptable for use on Wikipedia (see our policy for non-free media).

Note that any non-free images not used in any articles will be deleted after seven days, as described in the criteria for speedy deletion. Thank you. Stefan2 ( talk) 15:59, 17 February 2014 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Tireless Contributor Barnstar
I just found out you left! That's terrible. I wish you the best in your endeavors. We have not had much contact, but I often saw your contributions on my watchlist and appreciated them immensely. Λuα ( Operibus anteire) 02:54, 18 February 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes, Issue 4

Books and Bytes

Volume 1, Issue 4, February 2014

News for February from your Wikipedia Library.

Donations drive: news on TWL's partnership efforts with publishers

Open Access: Feature from Ocaasi on the intersection of the library and the open access movement

American Library Association Midwinter Conference: TWL attended this year in Philadelphia

Royal Society Opens Access To Journals: The UK's venerable Royal Society will give the public (and Wikipedians) full access to two of their journal titles for two days on March 4th and 5th

Going Global: TWL starts work on pilot projects in other language Wikipedias

Read the full newsletter


MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 04:00, 1 March 2014 (UTC) reply

The reptiles of the world need you

Crocodylus novaeguineae and those like it are still in need of your attention, sir. MezzoMezzo ( talk) 03:36, 20 March 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes - Issue 5

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 5, March 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs)

  • New Visiting Scholar positions
  • TWL Branch on Arabic Wikipedia, microgrants program
  • Australian articles get a link to librarians
  • Spotlight: "7 Reasons Librarians Should Edit Wikipedia"

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 17:54, 19 April 2014 (UTC) reply

Invitation join the new Physiology Wikiproject!

Physiology gives us an understanding of how and why things in the field of medicine happen. Together, let us jumpstart the project and get it going. Our energy is all it needs.

Based on the long felt gap for categorization and improvization of WP:MED articles relating to the field of physiology, the new WikiProject Physiology has been created. WikiProject Physiology is still in its infancy and needs your help. On behalf of a group of editors striving to improve the quality of physiology articles here on Wikipedia, I would like to invite you to come on board and participate in the betterment of physiology related articles. Help us to jumpstart this WikiProject.

  • Feel free to leave us a message at any time on the WikiProkect Physiology talk page. If you are interested in joining the project yourself, there is a participant list where you can sign up. Please leave a message on the talk page if you have any problems, suggestions, would like review of an article, need suggestions for articles to edit, or would like some collaboration when editing!
  • You can tag the talk pages of relevant articles with {{WikiProject Physiology|class=|importance=}} with your assessment of the article class and importance alongwith. Please note that WP:Physiology, WP:Physio, WP:Phy can be used interchangeably.
  • You will make a big difference to the quality of information by adding reliable sources. Sourcing physiology articles is essential and makes a big difference to the quality of articles. And, while you're at it, why not use a book to source information, which can source multiple articles at once!
  • We try and use a standard way of arranging the content in each article. That layout is here. These headings let us have a standard way of presenting the information in anatomical articles, indicate what information may have been forgotten, and save angst when trying to decide how to organise an article. That said, this might not suit every article. If in doubt, be bold!
  • Why not try and strive to create a good article! Physiology related articles are often small in scope, have available sources, and only a limited amount of research available that is readily presentable!
  • Your contributions to the WikiProject page, related categories and templates is also welcome.
  • To invite other editors to this WikiProject, copy and past this template (with the signature):
  • To welcome editors of physiology articles, copy and past this template (with the signature):
  • You can feel free to contact us on the WikiProkect Physiology talk page if you have any problems, or wish to join us. You can also put your suggestions there and discuss the scope of participation.

Hoping for your cooperation! Diptanshu Talk 12:33, 27 April 2014 (UTC) reply

Hi there

I'm a Khazar too :)))) Are you Turkic, Chinese, Jewish, or Russian? Khazar ( talk) 21:58, 2 May 2014 (UTC) reply

Thank you for being one of Wikipedia's top medical contributors!

please help translate this message into the local language
The Cure Award
In 2013 you were one of the top 300 medical editors across any language of Wikipedia. Thank you so much for helping bring free, complete, accurate, up-to-date medical information to the public. We really appreciate you and the vital work you do!

We are wondering about the educational background of our top medical editors. Would you please complete a quick 5-question survey? (please only fill this out if you received the award)

Thanks again :) -- Ocaasi, Doc James and the team at Wiki Project Med Foundation

Merger of 4/14 window with Child evangelism movement

Sorry to bug you if you don't want to be contacted, just letting you know about a merge of an article you've edited

Merge discussion for 4/14 Window

An article that you have been involved in editing, 4/14 Window, has been proposed for a merge with another article. If you are interested in the merge discussion, please participate by going here, and adding your comments on the discussion page. Thank you. -- Aronzak ( talk) 14:43, 21 May 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes, Issue 6

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 6, April-May 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations from Oxford University Press and Royal Society (UK)
  • TWL does Vegas: American Library Association Annual plans
  • TWL welcomes a new coordinator, resources for library students and interns
  • New portal on Meta, resources for starting TWL branches, donor call blitzes, Wikipedia Visiting Scholar news, and more

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 00:59, 5 June 2014 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library: New Account Coordinators Needed

Hi Books & Bytes recipients: The Wikipedia Library has been expanding rapidly and we need some help! We currently have 10 signups for free account access open and several more in the works... In order to help with those signups, distribute access codes, and manage accounts we'll need 2-3 more Account Coordinators.

It takes about an hour to get up and running and then only takes a couple hours per week, flexible depending upon your schedule and routine. If you're interested in helping out, please drop a note in the next week at my talk page or shoot me an email at: jorlowitz@gmail.com. Thanks and cheers, Jake Ocaasi via MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:41, 20 June 2014 (UTC) reply

The article Guo Xiaojun has been proposed for deletion because of the following concern:

BLP1E

While all constructive contributions to Wikipedia are appreciated, content or articles may be deleted for any of several reasons.

You may prevent the proposed deletion by removing the {{proposed deletion/dated}} notice, but please explain why in your edit summary or on the article's talk page.

Please consider improving the article to address the issues raised. Removing {{proposed deletion/dated}} will stop the proposed deletion process, but other deletion processes exist. In particular, the speedy deletion process can result in deletion without discussion, and articles for deletion allows discussion to reach consensus for deletion. 180.172.239.231 ( talk) 08:56, 8 July 2014 (UTC) reply

Nomination of Guo Xiaojun for deletion

A discussion is taking place as to whether the article Guo Xiaojun is suitable for inclusion in Wikipedia according to Wikipedia's policies and guidelines or whether it should be deleted.

The article will be discussed at Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Guo Xiaojun until a consensus is reached, and anyone is welcome to contribute to the discussion. The nomination will explain the policies and guidelines which are of concern. The discussion focuses on high-quality evidence and our policies and guidelines.

Users may edit the article during the discussion, including to improve the article to address concerns raised in the discussion. However, do not remove the article-for-deletion notice from the top of the article. 180.172.239.231 ( talk) 02:27, 9 July 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 7

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 7, June-July 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • Seven new donations, two expanded partnerships
  • TWL's Final Report up, read the summary
  • Adventures in Las Vegas, WikiConference USA, and updates from TWL coordinators
  • Spotlight: Blog post on BNA's impact on one editor's research

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 22:20, 31 July 2014 (UTC) reply

FYI of ban discussion

See Wikipedia:Administrators'_noticeboard#Should_my_lone_active_ban_continue.3F.-- TonyTheTiger ( T / C / WP:FOUR / WP:CHICAGO / WP:WAWARD) 20:46, 2 September 2014 (UTC) reply

Thanks all

It's been a while since I caught up on this page, but I just wanted to thank everybody who left a kind note here. After a year or so of thinking about it, I'm still basically at the same point I was before--Wikipedia's a great project and a huge service to the world, but any time I look at a talk page I can't imagine wading back into the mess again. I've made my mark in a small way and I'm satisfied to leave it at that (and Mrs. and Little Miss Khazar certainly appreciate that more of my hours are now devoted to cooking instead of encyclopedia writing!).

But though I'm still awfully glad to be retired, it's always a pleasure to look here and remember all the great people I got a chance to work with. Keep up the good work, everybody; you'll always have me as a devoted reader. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:06, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply

mm.. cooking :) Mohamed CJ (talk) 16:12, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Well, I'll be sure to keep you posted if we have anything interesting going on. :)  —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 16:19, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Hi Khazar and thanks so much for popping in! Terrific to hear from you -- Diannaa ( talk) 16:21, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Good to hear from you, Khazar; hope all is well in your current endeavors. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 18:14, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
You made my day by a sign of life and mentioning the little miss. I hope you like to be connected a colourful image of hope, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 19:38, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
ps: another GA for GA today, about my dreams. Which article of yours would like best to be translated to German? -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 21:30, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Thanks for the message Khazar. It's nice to know you're still reading Wikipedia. You aren't forgotten! Taylor Trescott - my talk + my edits 20:11, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
You are missed; there are several articles which could use your GA magic touch (such as JFK and RFK). I hope you return someday but if not, take care. Cheers, Kierzek ( talk) 00:38, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Good to hear from you! Glad to know you're doing alright. :) ComputerJA ( ) 20:38, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply

Khazar, the amount of work you did with good article nominations last year has to be commended. You put a lot of effort and interest into this project and process, which I feel is one of the most important ones on Wikipedia, as I feel that improving an article to GA status is within every long term editor's grasp. Eric Corbett feels the same, he likes the GA process as it's lightweight and is a good way of showing to a reader that an article is readable and trustworthy. The comment you were upset about was with Eric being cross about a long term editor who was up for an Arbcom case, having previously been banned for two years, and that time got an indefinite topic ban as a result. I'm not sure that editor has ever taken an article to GA status (and if he has, it's not obvious). So, Eric was right.

I think possibly what happened is it was just the straw that broke the camel's back. You did an awful lot of work for Wikipedia and you were possibly simply burned out. It happens to all of us here who do good work - when you do that, you find the next thing is more work. Even though I have improved 30 articles to GA status, it's approximately 0% of all articles on Wikipedia. Take care and come back when you ready. Try improving an article to GA with Eric, you may be surprised at the collaboration and the end result. Ritchie333 (talk) (cont) 10:18, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply

Thank you. I improved Andreas Scholl with Eric, it was delightful. While you two improving an article together sounds like music of a future, I might offer you to just review, St John Passion structure for GA, nominated in March, written with passion, and now also in memory of the conductor who told me these things. Quoting myself: I will not forget how he silently put the symbol of the peace movement next to the score. -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 11:07, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Hey Ritchie, really good to hear from you! (And always you too Gerda, and everybody above.) You're both included in the editors I greatly admire and therefore hesitate to disagree with. I'll just say that to me, the fact that the Eric Corbett Wars continue to rage--I've only been back watching my page the last week or two, and already been pinged about it--is an indicator that the problem goes beyond any single comment (certainly for me it did). And without civility as a legitimate pillar, I feel like Wikipedia is much more of a grind than other ways to volunteer online.
But I realize perceptions of this vary and am happy to agree to disagree. Heck, I'm selfishly glad people like you are still here writing good content for people like me to read! You guys are great, and your work is deeply appreciated. =) -- Khazar2 ( talk) 14:07, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Thanks. All I can say is that if Eric rages, he does it for a reason. As for me, I've had at least one GA nomination in the pipeline for over two years now, and I'd be concerned if it ever got down to zero! Give St John Passion structure a go, I'm absolutely confident Gerda knows what she's doing, but I've never reviewed a classical music article before so I'm concerned I'd make a ham-fisted job of it. Ritchie333 (talk) (cont) 14:25, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Gerda, I very regretfully have to pass on reviewing that one. But I did read and enjoy it, and am enjoying listening to it right now, too! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 14:56, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Hi Khazar, just wanted to say I didn't intentionally mean to disturb you with this. When I "pinged" you I didn't realise you were still watching and I was only intending to link to your name for others to reference. Hope all's well. DeCausa ( talk) 17:13, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
  • No problem at all, and all the best to you too, Khazar2 ( talk) 17:41, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 8

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 8, August-September2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • TWL now a Wikimedia Foundation program, moves on from grant status
  • Four new donations, including large DeGruyter parntership, pilot with Elsevier
  • New TWL coordinators, Wikimania news, new library platform discussions, Wiki Loves Libraries update, and more
  • Spotlight: "Traveling Through History" - an editor talks about his experiences with a TWL newspaper archive, Newspapers.com

Read the full newsletter



MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 04:51, 7 October 2014 (UTC) reply

I used your model at award you created, and then this happened

Hi, Khazar2, I hope you're doing well, and thanks very much for creating WP:Million Award. :)

I used your model at the award you created, giving out one combined award for multiple articles, together, DIFF.

Unfortunately, this appears to have irked some who are complaining about wanting to have received multiple different awards for each individual article. I tried to explain that you created the award to be no big deal, that one could even award themselves the award, to no avail, so far.

The phrase don't look a gift horse in the mouth comes to mind, but oh well. :P

Perhaps you could comment at Wikipedia_talk:Million_Award#Cleared_the_backlogs ? — Cirt ( talk) 08:17, 27 October 2014 (UTC) reply

  1. Is it an intended practice of the award to self-award? (already indicated by you in the past at DIFF)
  2. Is it an intended practice to give out recognition of multiple articles bundled into one? (already indicated by you in the past at DIFF)
Hey Cirt, glad to hear you're still active there. I appreciate the note (and also the knowledge that you awarded more of these), but I'm going to stay out of this one. Not only am I retired, but I also previously had to request an interaction ban with Tony after he hounded me on another awards-related dispute. However the award develops from here is fine with me.
Thanks for helping keep the award alive, though! It'll be great if WP can continue to fill in most-read core content. Happy writing, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:39, 8 November 2014 (UTC) reply
I understand, and you're most welcome. You might enjoy my newest Quality improvement project, for the Hitachi Magic Wand. Cheers, — Cirt ( talk) 18:03, 8 November 2014 (UTC) reply

New Wikipedia Library Accounts Now Available (November 2014)

Hello Wikimedians!

The TWL OWL says sign up today :)

The Wikipedia Library is announcing signups today for, free, full-access accounts to published research as part of our Publisher Donation Program. You can sign up for:

  • DeGruyter: 1000 new accounts for English and German-language research. Sign up on one of two language Wikipedias:
  • Fold3: 100 new accounts for American history and military archives
  • Scotland's People: 100 new accounts for Scottish genealogy database
  • British Newspaper Archive: expanded by 100+ accounts for British newspapers
  • Highbeam: 100+ remaining accounts for newspaper and magazine archives
  • Questia: 100+ remaining accounts for journal and social science articles
  • JSTOR: 100+ remaining accounts for journal archives

Do better research and help expand the use of high quality references across Wikipedia projects: sign up today!
-- The Wikipedia Library Team 23:25, 5 November 2014 (UTC)

You can host and coordinate signups for a Wikipedia Library branch in your own language. Please contact Ocaasi (WMF).
This message was delivered via the Mass Message to the Book & Bytes recipient list.

Some kind words

After seeing your name appear on a talk page somewhere it reminded me that I had not seen it a long time. Last year I had seen it frequently around DYK and now I found out that you are retired. I just wish to express my sincere thanks for all the great work you've done in your time here. More than once I have found myself reading articles that you have contributed to making GA (albeit unknown to me at the time). Your argument on improving important articles still makes a lot of sense, though I have to admit I'm one those editors on obscure topics myself, haha. Thank you for your lasting contributions. Crispulop ( talk) 21:19, 1 December 2014 (UTC) reply

New Wikipedia Library Accounts Now Available (December 2014)

Hello Wikimedians!

The TWL OWL says sign up today :)

The Wikipedia Library is announcing signups today for, free, full-access accounts to published research as part of our Publisher Donation Program. You can sign up for:

Other partnerships with accounts available are listed on our partners page. Do better research and help expand the use of high quality references across Wikipedia projects: sign up today!
-- The Wikipedia Library Team.00:25, 18 December 2014 (UTC)

You can host and coordinate signups for a Wikipedia Library branch in your own language. Please contact Ocaasi (WMF).
This message was delivered via the Mass Message tool to the Book & Bytes recipient list.

Global account

Hi Khazar2! As a Steward I'm involved in the upcoming unification of all accounts organized by the Wikimedia Foundation (see m:Single User Login finalisation announcement). By looking at your your account, I realized that you don't have a global account yet. In order to secure your name, I recommend you to create such account on your own by submitting your password on Special:MergeAccount and unifying your local accounts. If you have any problems with doing that or further questions, please don't hesitate to ping me with {{ping|DerHexer}}. Cheers, — DerHexer  (Talk) 11:16, 30 December 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 9

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 9, November-December 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations, including real-paper-and-everything books, e-books, science journal databases, and more
  • New TWL coordinators, conference news, a new open-access journal database, summary of library-related WMF grants, and more
  • Spotlight: "Global Impact: The Wikipedia Library and Persian Wikipedia" - a Persian Wikipedia editor talks about their experiences with database access in Iran, writing on the Persian project and the JSTOR partnership

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:36, 8 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Notifying you due to your prior participation in a merger discussion

  1. Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/2012 tour of She Has a Name
  2. Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Critical response to She Has a Name

Notifying you due to your prior participation in a merger discussion.

You previously participated in a merger discussion at Talk:She_Has_a_Name#Merger_proposal.

There are now two (2) ongoing deletion discussions related to that, at Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/2012 tour of She Has a Name and Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Critical response to She Has a Name.

Cheers,

Cirt ( talk) 23:54, 13 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Precious again

Rare and enlightening
Thank you for raising awareness for Human Rights and those who suffer fighting for them, people who deserve attention and serve as models! On the day when you achieved your goal, - you are an awesome Wikipedian!

-- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 12:30, 25 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Three years ago, you were the third person to whom I gave the sapphire as a token of recognition, - you received the Pumpkin Sky Prize before PumpkinSky ;) - you serve as a model for article quality and for human right, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 12:30, 25 January 2012 (UTC) reply

We thought of you: did you know ... * ... that the chronicle Gesta Hungarorum (pictured) explicitly mentions only the Khazars and Székelys as peoples who inhabited the realm of Duke Menumorut around 900? -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 21:40, 27 January 2015 (UTC) reply

About your (non)participation in the January 2012 SOPA vote

Hi Khazar2. I am Piotr Konieczny ( User:Piotrus), you may know me as an active content creator (see my userpage), but I am also a professional researcher of Wikipedia. Recently I published a paper (downloadable here) on reasons editors participated in Wikipedia's biggest vote to date (January 2012 WP:SOPA). I am now developing a supplementary paper, which analyzes why many editors did not take part in that vote. Which is where you come in :) You are a highly active Wikipedian (73rd to be exact), and you were active back during the January 2012 discussion/voting for the SOPA, yet you did not chose to participate in said vote. I'd appreciate it if you could tell me why was that so? For your convenience, I prepared a short survey at meta, which should not take more than a minute of your time. I would dearly appreciate you taking this minute; not only as a Wikipedia researcher but as a fellow content creator and concerned member of the community (I believe your answers may help us eventually improve our policies and thus, the project's governance). PS. If you chose to reply here (on your userpage), please WP:ECHO me. Thank you! -- Piotr Konieczny aka Prokonsul Piotrus| reply here 23:28, 11 February 2015 (UTC) reply

TFL notification

Hi, Khazar. I'm just posting to let you know that CPJ International Press Freedom Awards – a list that you have been heavily involved with – has been chosen to appear on the Main Page as Today's featured list for March 23. The TFL blurb can be seen here. If you have any thoughts on the selection, please post them on my talk page or at TFL talk. Regards, Giants2008 ( Talk) 22:32, 27 February 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 10

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 10, January-February 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - ProjectMUSE, Dynamed, Royal Pharmaceutical Society, and Women Writers Online
  • New TWL coordinator, conference news, and a new guide and template for archivists
  • TWL moves into the new Community Engagement department at the WMF, quarterly review

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 17:40, 4 March 2015 (UTC) reply

A new reference tool

Hello Books & Bytes subscribers. There is a new Visual Editor reference feature in development called Citoid. It is designed to "auto-fill" references using a URL or DOI. We would really appreciate you testing whether TWL partners' references work in Citoid. Sharing your results will help the developers fix bugs and improve the system. If you have a few minutes, please visit the testing page for simple instructions on how to try this new tool. Regards, MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 18:47, 10 April 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 11

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 11, March-April 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - MIT Press Journals, Sage Stats, Hein Online and more
  • New TWL coordinators, conference news, and new reference projects
  • Spotlight: Two metadata librarians talk about how library professionals can work with Wikipedia

Read the full newsletter



MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:25, 4 May 2015 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library needs you!

The Wikipedia Library

Call for Volunteers

The Wikipedia Library is expanding, and we need your help! With only a couple of hours per week, you can make a big difference in helping editors get access to reliable sources and other resources. Sign up for one of the following roles:

  • Account coordinators help distribute research accounts to editors.
  • Partner coordinators seek donations from new partners.
  • Outreach coordinators reach out to the community through blog posts, social media, and newsletters or notifications.
  • Technical coordinators advise on building tools to support the library's work.
Sign up to help here :)

Delivered on behalf of The Wikipedia Library by MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 06:16, 11 June 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 12

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 12, May-June 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - Taylor & Francis, Science, and three new French-language resources
  • Expansion into new languages, including French, Finnish, Turkish, and Farsi
  • Spotlight: New partners for the Visiting Scholar program
  • American Library Association Annual meeting in San Francisco

Read the full newsletter

The Interior 15:23, 16 July 2015 (UTC) reply

BBC Southern Counties Radio

Please become involved in the discussion on the Wiki page for BBC Southern Counties Radio. IT appears someone doesn't understand rules and the notable person scenario. 86.151.115.174 ( talk) 20:58, 24 September 2015 (UTC) reply

BBC Southern Counties Radio

Please become involved in the discussion on the Wiki page for BBC Southern Counties Radio. IT appears someone doesn't understand rules and the notable person scenario. 86.151.115.174 ( talk) 20:58, 24 September 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 13

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 13, August-September 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - EBSCO, IMF, more newspaper archives, and Arabic resources
  • Expansion into new languages, including Viet and Catalan
  • Spotlight: Elsevier partnership garners controversy, dialogue
  • Conferences: PKP, IFLA, upcoming events

Read the full newsletter

The Interior via MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 16:30, 1 October 2015 (UTC) reply

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Reconsider?

This comes like a shock to me. It seems more and more good people are leaving. I wish you do well whether leave or decide to stay, but remember that your contributions here are well appreciated. Mohamed CJ (talk) 16:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Support that, shock, seems, wish and appreciate ( Precious #3), -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 17:14, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Very surprised to see you retire. Why was this? I hope it was nothing to do with what was said on Eric's talk page as that would be silly. You're entitled to say or think what you like of other editors but not everybody necessarily will fully agree. It isn't a reason to retire anyway. ♦ Dr. Blofeld 17:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Have a safe retirement, Khazar, and hopes that you continue to fight the good fight on another front (though, of course, I did buy a new book on Udin... and apparently there is a court case going on, but no suspect). —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 17:57, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • You were within spitting distance of your goals for 2013! I hope this is just one of those "heat of the moment" things. If not, best to you and the little Khazar. Curly Turkey ( gobble) 19:00, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Oh, man, this really blows. I hope you will come back. Taylor Trescott - my talk + my edits 19:15, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I am very sad to see this, seeing as I was just starting to get the chance to work with you on the UN stuff. You are valued, and I hope you reconsider after a nice long break. -- Laser brain (talk) 19:24, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm also sad to see this. Khazar is one of the kindest, most helpful editors around. I hope he does what's best for him, but he should know that if he returns after a rest he'll be welcomed with open arms. SlimVirgin (talk) 19:29, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Hey, thanks all--I really appreciate the kindness. Really it's sudden only in its timing, though I should have explained better on my page. I've been mulling this over for a while and took a month's wikibreak in October for similar reasons; as exciting as this project still is to me, I'm just burnt out on the environment. Today I happened to see a thread that made me think "y'know, I'm done", but if it hadn't been today, it would have just been something tomorrow.
But I've got no regrets. I feel like I had a good run here, wrote some good articles and met a lot of good folks, and am ready to move on to whatever's next. (All that said, I did try to retire two years ago and it didn't stick--so it'd be overdramatic for me to say I'm gone for good for sure.) In any case, it's been a pleasure working with all of you! Cheers, and keep up the good work, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 19:31, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I saw the impetus which broke the camels back and it's sickening.-- MONGO 19:47, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Wow, what a blow for Wikipedia. I hope you realize how much you are appreciated (by me and others). Take some time to mentally recuperate and then come back soon, rejuvenated! Ruby 2010/ 2013 20:54, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
    • To reiterate what Ruby says above. You are appreciated and thank you for the great work over the years even in the face of a Wikipedia that WP:SUCKs. Now go enjoy your life.Regards, Sun Creator( talk) 21:18, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I don't blame you. Wikipedia is a hobby and if you can't enjoy it, don't force yourself to continue. Maybe this community will eventually get the message and try to clean up the incivility. It will probably be too late by that point. Automatic Strikeout ( ) 21:33, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I hope you enjoy your retirement. You are an amazing editor and person—an example for many of us. You've made my experience here worthwhile, and I am grateful to have bumped into you in this project. Don't ever forget you have many friends here (including me) who admire you. All the best, ComputerJA ( ) 21:37, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'll miss you too, and I hope you again raise the enthusiasm to return. Take it easy. Yngvadottir ( talk) 22:03, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Saddened. I do hope you return, when the time is right. Kindest and fondest regards to you and yours. From Irondome ( talk) 23:03, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Well, let me explain this to you. You cannot leave! Don't do this to us me! We will miss you a lot, Khazar :( — ΛΧΣ 21 23:05, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I just thought I'd let you know how much I've enjoyed collaborating with you on the GA reviews for Jelena Balšić and Treblinka extermination camp. Your commitment to the project has been truly inspiring, and even if you never come back, I hope that my contributions to Wikipedia can fill some small part of the void you'll leave behind. But you've left and come back once before, so I hope you do so again! AmericanLemming ( talk) 00:20, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks everybody, I'm really overwhelmed by your kindness. I'll have to remember to print this page tomorrow to keep in the Life File. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks much. It's an odd send-off that one of my GAs got 200,000 hits the day I retired--wish it could be under other circumstances than that sad news, though. (FWIW, though, User:MidnightBlueOwl did far more than me on that.) -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:34, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks! I think clicking through to see the conversation on that talk page would be madness for me at this point, but I will happily take your word for it. I'll miss working with you, Gerda, but I appreciate your understanding. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:12, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • So I repeat it here (excuse third person): "Khazar: when he left the first time, I was shocked. The second time I cried (and I don't do that often). When he gave us the Million Award for Kafka, I said: "For those who don't know: I am proud of editor retention, and won Khazar twice! Looking at the results, that may have been the best I did here." - Now, I let him go where he wishes to go." -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 16:28, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks, Gerda. You still deserve the credit for getting me back here for these past two years of work. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 17:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Man oh mayonnaise. I'm sad to see you go. When I first ran into you, no more than a couple of months ago, I was instantly struck by how nice you were. Unlike so many other people on this site, you were complimentary, not prickly. You took the time to answer people's question in a thorough way, and I never detected a hint of anger in anything you wrote. Then I saw all the content you've contributed—on very meaningful topics, not just silly pop culture trivia like me—and I was doubly impressed. What can I say? Please come back. Bobnorwal ( talk) 06:37, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thank you for all that you have done. All the best, and I hope to see you back. EddieHugh ( talk) 14:31, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Thanks, Dragon, Bob, and Eddie for the kind words--it was a pleasure working with you all as well! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:38, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Sad to see you leave and a loss for Wikipedia certainly. But I would never encourage people to volunteer in an environment where they don’t thrive. I guess sometimes a pause can help; sometimes not. Good luck with your other efforts . Best regards, Iselilja ( talk) 20:54, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I've enjoyed collaborating with you on the GA review for Jelena Balšić. Take care!-- Antidiskriminator ( talk) 21:28, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • It was a pleasure collaborating with you, too-- cheers, Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • This is sad. Only had a couple of contacts with you but seen plenty of your work. Big loss for WP. DeCausa ( talk) 13:30, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • My thoughts are very similar to the above - it is definitely sad to see you leaving, and I very much hope you choose to return in the future - it was great working with you. Hchc2009 ( talk) 18:44, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Khazar your work here, across a huge of array of topics, is greatly appreciated and your departure will likewise be a huge loss for the encyclopedia. It was good to work with you, even though I regret we did not collaborate more often. I hope the temptation of editing will eventually render your retirement a vacation. If not, farewell and make sure you stay productive! We'll do our best to continue the work you started. Regards, -- Al Ameer ( talk) 20:26, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • Hey man what a heartbreak you have given to all of us. You won't believe but after seeing that banner I was thinking about you only in my real life. And the weight that I have got in my heart, I seriously wish I wouldn't have met you. But at the same time I do wish all the best in your real life. I am sure that you'll keep on fighting for the good cause a fighter that you are. But man there is only one sin that you would accumulate a lot for sure in your real life and that is breaking hearts of your well wishers. All the best. We respect your decision. Have a very prosperous, satisfying and successful real life! C Ya -- Seabuckthorn  04:58, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm sad to hear you're leaving, Khazar2. Our paths crossed only a few times, but I have admired your quality of work and dedication in bringing human rights articles to Good Article status. Your work has helped inspire me to start working to bring articles up to GA status, which is something I have not been very involved with in the past. I'm sad we won't be tackling Democracy together, but I completely understand your reasons for leaving. You will be missed, and I do hope our paths cross again someday. Take care. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 15:52, 15 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • And for what it's worth, I agree with you that Wikipedia treats its civility policy as a joke, particularly when incivility comes from the "popular kids", and that doing so is antithetical to building a stable project. What's unfortunate is that the more incivility is tolerated, the more Wikipedia is likely to drive away high-quality editors like yourself, who value building an encyclopedia and aren't here to get off on belittling others. And the fewer editors like you we have around, the worse it will become. But by no means should anyone feel forced to remain in an unhealthy environment for the sake of that environment; lately, I've been less inclined to participate myself due to the hostility on this project, and it's a good part of why I'm currently on a semi-wikibreak (which, in turn, is why I didn't see your retirement decision over the past few days). Whatever you do next, I hope you find it amicable and fulfilling, and I wish you the best. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 16:14, 15 December 2013 (UTC) reply
  • I'm sorry to hear about this, although I certainly respect your decision - I hope that you will return in the future, and I think that until then, it will be Wikipedia's loss. KConWiki ( talk) 19:14, 31 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Ah, Khazar, somehow I missed hearing about your retirement, although I did notice I hadn't seen you around much. All the best with everything. I really appreciated your kind reviews. Sorry to see you go! Moisejp ( talk) 16:19, 1 March 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Random (infrequent contributor, constant user). I hope people like you will continue contributing - I just found you by looking at who it was who thoughtfully added information about Johan Teterisa. I think articles like that are some of the most important on wikipedia - the distribution of knowledge, in this case, really is helping to protect someone. I hope you come back. And about some editors being uncivil or whatever - I figure that happens in all parts of life sometimes, better to ignore them and get on with it, maybe? Thanks again Lionfishy ( talk) 13:17, 8 May 2014 (UTC) (a random, global citizen!) reply
  • I'm late to this party but you were one of the editors I really enjoyed working with. Sorry to see you go and good luck with your future endeavors. 87Fan ( talk) 23:05, 9 September 2014 (UTC) reply

A message of WikiLove

This giraffe is extremely sad to see you go, but wants to let you know how much it appreciates all the quality work you're done for Wikipedia. (I can tell all that, just by looking at its expression.)

It also hopes you return soon, and it thinks you're one of the best. I've never been one to argue with a giraffe, and I'm not going to start now. Quadell ( talk) 19:13, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

It is a hard face to argue with. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 19:32, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Disappointing

The Friendship Barnstar
It has been an extreme pleasure to work with you at WP:WER/Editor of the Week. Your nominations kept the place going and they will be missed. Please know that the door is always open. ``` Buster Seven Talk 19:45, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
It was a pleasure working with you as well, my friend. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Tireless Contributor Barnstar
This is you - a seemingly tireless contributor, although all of us can get tired of the at times confrontational community structure. Take a nap, but please don't leave us permanently, as I for one will certainly miss your work at both EotW and in GA reviews, predominantly for sports articles. We need excellent content contributors such as yourself. Best regards, Go Phightins ! 21:41, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Go Phightins! I've always admired your contributions even if you are a Phillies fan. Wikipedia is all about building bridges, I say... -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Original Barnstar
You told it like it is. You stood up to the bully. Unfortunately, standing up to the bully doesn't work here because the bully has too many friends. It's no surprise that the bully treated you like you were inferior, but your pedigree shows that your contributions were very important and should not be overlooked. Too bad that doesn't matter to the bully. Automatic Strikeout ( ) 22:11, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks--I appreciate the thought, but honestly, if I had stood up to the bully (clarification: Eric Corbett), I would have said something a year ago, and kept saying it. Instead I avoided the growing mess until I was so sick of him and those like him that I decided to leave the project, and didn't even read the thread that presumably grew from my post (or not). I'm glad I said something but it wasn't my most courageous hour, sadly. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sad to see it

The Barnstar of Integrity
I, like many others, am sad to see you leave. In my short time under your mentorship, I learned a lot about what it means to be a Good Articles reviewer, a good editor, and generally a good member of the project. I got a real sense of the respect held by many for you, and of the great contribution you made to Good Articles, human rights, and Wikipedia as a whole. You were in many ways an inspiration, so I wish you and your family all the best, and I do hope that something down the line entices you back to the project when you feel refreshed. If there is ever anything I can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask. — Sasuke Sarutobi ( talk) 22:44, 4 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Cheers, Sasuke. It was a pleasure working with you--good luck with your reviewing! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 00:23, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Why!?

This kitten is very said that you're retiring. Just wanted to let you know that your contributions will never be forgotten.

buff bills 7701 01:58, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, buffbills--much appreciated. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:03, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Random Acts of Kindness Barnstar
Best of luck. Sad to see you go . Sportsguy17 ( talkcontribssign) 03:05, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Sportsguy-- good luck with that MLB nomination! Remind someone to give you the right level of the Million Award if it passes, or just claim it! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:34, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Really?

Usually I just shrug off seeing retired messages. I know that 95% of the people that put those up are annoying users who just come back the next day after baiting everyone. Unfortunately the 5% are generally quality users that we don't want to see leave, and you're definitely in that camp. Hopefully you'll simply take some time off and return later on. Seemed like GAN was finally working somewhat well for a while with you taking the reins on reviews... Wizardman 03:22, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Wizardman. You're an editor I've always looked up to for your long-term leadership at GA, and so I doubly appreciate the kind words. Right now I do plan to be gone for good, but there's no telling what the future may hold; perhaps I'll feel differently in a few months or a year. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 03:38, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Hey Khazar2, sorry to see you go. Think about coming back to edit occasionally, instead of nonstop. Wikipedia's a nice little hobby when done in moderation, despite the people referred to at the top of my user page. I very much enjoyed working with you a little bit. Cheers. Anythingyouwant ( talk) 04:15, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, it was a pleasure working with you, too. And you're right, part of my frustration has definitely been using Wikipedia as a 40-50 hour a week substitute workplace since leaving my teaching position; it's just not a healthy enough environment for that, despite the many great people here. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I, too, am sorry to see you go, Khazar2. I was disappointed to watch INeverCry walk away and watching this is no better. Given enough time, any Wikipedian that isn't banned eventually shows up on the "Missing Wikipedians" list with or without an explanation. All but the most unhinged megalomaniacs and self-righteous obsessives succumb to frustration and alienation on Wikipedia. Chris Troutman ( talk) 08:43, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks, Chris. I've always appreciated that thorough GA review you gave me and your other good contributions here. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I am also sorry to see you go. I hope you reconsider. In any case, best of wishes to you and the missus.-- Wehwalt ( talk) 11:03, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I don't think it's likely at this point, but I can tell you that if I ever return, it'll be to tackle that Jimmy Carter expansion with you--the one project I regret not getting to. Anyway, thank you for all your amazing work here; you were always one of my favorites to read at GAN. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

You've definitely made Wikipedia a more enjoyable place to collaborate. After we put so many hours into this place, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that this is, after all, just freakin' Wikipedia. I think we have something really cool going with this project, but it isn't worth compromising your health or sanity. I'm glad you're doing what makes the most sense to you right now. EricEnfermero HOWDY! 07:55, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Eric, for the kind note--keep up your good work! Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Best of luck to you, and know that you are always welcome back! BOZ ( talk) 16:09, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Boz. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:10, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library's Books and Bytes newsletter (#2)

Welcome to the second issue of The Wikipedia Library's Books & Bytes newsletter! Read on for updates about what is going on at the intersection of Wikipedia and the library world.

Wikipedia Library highlights: New accounts, new surveys, new positions, new presentations...

Spotlight on people: Another Believer and Wiki Loves Libraries...

Books & Bytes in brief: From Dewey to Diversity conference...

Further reading: Digital library portals around the web...

Read Books & Bytes

The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs) 16:48, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Why are you leaving?

It is so sad that you have to leave. You're one of the project's most prolific editors, and despite your being here for less that two years, everyone wants you to keep editing. Don't retire—just take a long wikibreak and come back whenever it suits you. Epicgenius ( talk) 19:35, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

I second that sentiment. Toccata quarta ( talk) 19:48, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I guess this might help explain: User:Khazar2/leaving. Mohamed CJ (talk) 19:50, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply
Thanks all, much appreciated! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thank you

Thank you very much for your valuable article contributions during your time on this wiki. Also appreciated are your many thoughtful and comprehensive GA reviews and the many other ways you sought to help. I hope to see you editing again someday. Best wishes, -- Diannaa ( talk) 22:11, 5 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thank you, Diannaa! Our collaboration on Auschwitz was one of my favorite things I did on Wikipedia. If I ever do come back I'll be sure to drop a line and maybe we can finally tackle Holocaust... or at least Nuremberg trials. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply
I just saw where you have decided to retire. I am sorry to see you go. I also hope you will decide to return someday. THANK YOU for all you have done herein. Cheers, Kierzek ( talk) 16:24, 29 December 2013 (UTC) reply

I was afraid...

...you might have left when the Dmowski's GA suddenly evaporated, but I hoped I was wrong. Still, I swung by here today... and sadly, that's the case. First, let me say that it's been a pleasure working with you, and I am sad too see you go. Second. I read your statement, and I understand quite well where you are coming from; I wrote about this very issue years ago. In the end, despite the flaws of this project, I decided to stay, because for all the bullies, trolls and morons, the project still delivers something immensely valuable. Of course, slugging it out with certain characters is not fun, but the solution that I found was to avoid controversial topics and editors, and focus on writing "for fun". No troll or foul mouthed fratboy can take away our joy from adding another DYK or GA to the stack. It has worked for me for the last few years quite well. So take a break, for however long you feel you need it, but remember: Wikipedia is a great idea, and we can still have fun on it. -- Piotr Konieczny aka Prokonsul Piotrus| reply here 08:24, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks, Piotrus. I enjoyed working with you, too--I've learned quite a bit of interesting Polish history from our collaborations at GAN. Someone recently suggested a similar strategy to me of no longer using Wikipedia's watchlist feature so that you can just focus on adding or revising one article at a time; if I ever do return, I think it'd be like that. -- Khazar2 ( talk) 12:31, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A blanket thanks and logging out

Okay, I'll stop trying to keep up with the many kind wishes here, but let me just say one last thanks to everybody. I've saved a copy of this and will long look back at it and smile. All best and happy holidays, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 17:38, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

In Latin: Forsan et haec olim meminisse iuvabit. And thanks in return to you for sure. Collect ( talk) 15:13, 9 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sorry you're retiring -- here's wishing you well

I'm awfully sorry to see that you've retired. I hope my bugging you with GA questions wasn't a cause of your departure. I'm so appreciative of your support and am not sure what I'll do without my mentor. I'm one forlorn grasshopper! Best wishes to you.-- Jburlinson ( talk) 21:28, 6 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Your GA nomination of United Nations

Hi there, I'm pleased to inform you that I've begun reviewing the article United Nations you nominated for GA-status according to the criteria. This process may take up to 7 days. Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments you might have during this period. Message delivered by Legobot, on behalf of TonyTheTiger -- TonyTheTiger ( talk) 06:01, 7 December 2013 (UTC) reply

  • Tony has withdrawn from the review owing to the ongoing interaction ban. —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 09:31, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Peace out

-- Mark Miller ( talk) 08:14, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Thanks!

Thanks so much for nominating me for Editor of the Week! It means a lot to me that you, Go Phightins! ( talk · contribs), and Buster7 ( talk · contribs) all appreciate all the work I try to do! WikiRedactor ( talk) 18:18, 8 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Sad to see you go

You will be greatly missed! Thanks for your contributions, GA reviews, and for in general making Wikipedia a nicer and more friendly place to be. Wishing you all the best, -- 1ST7 ( talk) 03:52, 10 December 2013 (UTC) reply

You've got mail!

Hello, Khazar2. Please check your email; you've got mail! The subject is Major League Baseball.
Message added 03:03, 11 December 2013 (UTC). It may take a few minutes from the time the email is sent for it to show up in your inbox. You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{ You've got mail}} or {{ ygm}} template.

Sportsguy17 ( talkcontribssign) 03:03, 11 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Special Barnstar
This is for your efforts on Wikipedia. I'm so sorry to hear that you have retired. You have been a great contributor and I appreciate all of your efforts. I hope you reconsider your retirement. Best of luck in your future endeavors. Best wishes, Lord Sjones23 ( talk - contributions) 21:14, 12 December 2013 (UTC) reply

HighBeam

Hey Khazar, I've archived your HighBeam application because of your retirement - if you do decide to come back, just let me know and we can look at getting you access. Nikkimaria ( talk) 20:36, 16 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Please don't go !!!

You're one of our strongest quality contributors on topics of freedom of speech, censorship, and human rights!

I hope you will take some time to rest and reconsider.

Thanks very much for your many many many varied and high quality contributions,

Cirt ( talk) 04:46, 20 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Seasons Greetings!

-- TriiipleThreat ( talk) 13:28, 23 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Reconsider?

Hi, I interacted with you only once but kept a watch on your work. Sorry to see you go, best of luck for the future. I hope you'll come back. Soham ( talk) 14:17, 23 December 2013 (UTC) reply

A Holiday Turkey!

Adding music, the Christmas Story: A Boy was Born, - more on my talk, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 14:06, 25 December 2013 (UTC) reply

-- Diannaa ( talk) 16:52, 25 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Glad Tidings and all that ...

FWiW Bzuk ( talk) 20:14, 26 December 2013 (UTC) reply

Dear K2:

Well done and thanks!

Military history reviewers' award
For reviewing five MILHIST Good article nominations during the period October to December 2013, I am pleased to award you the Wikistripes. Peacemaker67 ( send... over) 07:45, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Keep track of upcoming reviews. Just copy and paste {{ WPMILHIST Review alerts}} to your user space

Mail time

Hello, Khazar2. Please check your email; you've got mail!
It may take a few minutes from the time the email is sent for it to show up in your inbox. You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{ You've got mail}} or {{ ygm}} template.

Sadads ( talk) 17:05, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

A cup of tea for you!

Sorry to see you go. I hope you and yours have a great 2014. Maybe we'll see you back here someday, but if not, you left a hell of a legacy. Take care. INeverCry 22:36, 6 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Your GA nomination of United Nations

The article United Nations you nominated as a good article has passed ; see Talk:United Nations for comments about the article. Well done! Message delivered by Legobot, on behalf of Chris troutman -- Chris troutman ( talk) 19:42, 12 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Good! - Did you see that I closed too? Back on reduced energy ;) -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 20:06, 12 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Million Award

The Million Award
For your contributions to bring United Nations (estimated annual readership: 2,400,000) to Good Article status, I hereby present you with would could be the first ever post-retirement Million Award. Congratulations on this rare accomplishment, and thanks for all you have done for Wikipedia's readers. Quadell ( talk) 12:05, 13 January 2014 (UTC) reply

The Million Award is a new well-established initiative to recognize the editors of Wikipedia's most-read content; you can read more about the award and its possible tiers (Quarter Million Award, Half Million Award, and Million Award) at Wikipedia:Million Award. You're also welcome to display this userbox:

This editor won the Million Award for bringing United Nations to Good Article status.

Books & Bytes New Years Double Issue

Books & Bytes

Volume 1 Issue 3, December/January 2013

(Sign up for monthly delivery)

Happy New Year, and welcome to a special double issue of Books & Bytes. We've included a retrospective on the changes and progress TWL has seen over the last year, the results of the survey TWL participants completed in December, some of our plans for the future, a second interview with a Wiki Love Libraries coordinator, and more. Here's to 2014 being a year of expansion and innovation for TWL!

The Wikipedia Library completed the first 6 months of its Individual Engagement grant last week. Here's where we are and what we've done:

Increased access to sources: 1500 editors signed up for 3700 free accounts, individually worth over $500,000, with usage increases of 400-600%
Deep networking: Built relationships with Credo, HighBeam, Questia, JSTOR, Cochrane, LexisNexis, EBSCO, New York Times, and OCLC
New pilot projects: Started the Wikipedia Visiting Scholar project to empower university-affiliated Wikipedia researchers
Developed community: Created portal connecting 250 newsletter recipients, 30 library members, 3 volunteer coordinators, and 2 part-time contractors
Tech scoped: Spec'd out a reference tool for linking to full-text sources and established a basis for OAuth integration
Broad outreach: Wrote a feature article for Library Journal's The Digital Shift; presenting at the American Library Association annual meeting
... Read Books & Bytes!

Hi. I saw you hangin' 'round WP:GAN and such, and I looked into why you left. I agree - this place is becoming harder to stay in because editors do tend to try to run each other out. I've had at least one experience like that in the last year, and I can expect many more from the looks of things.

Anyway, I am adding you to the page in the section title of this post. You were a great contributor and this will serve as a reminder of what you did here, when you left and why you left. If you don't want to be on that list, or if you ever change your mind and decide to come back, feel free to remove yourself from that list. If you want to remain kept off the list, I recommend using an edit summary to say this so it'll be there when other editors look at your contributions list.

Regardless, I hope this finds you well and I'm sorry to see you go. God bless, Lazy Bastard Guy 00:44, 16 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Please come back

I noticed you had left when I saw someone had added you to WP:MISS. Like all the people above, I wish you were still active here. I have never been active in the area of reviewing GANs, as you apparently were. However, I have noticed your many AWB-assisted contributions, particularly on recently created pages. I hope you will someday change your mind about Wikipedia being too hateful an environment for you to work in. Jinkinson talk to me 16:40, 16 January 2014 (UTC) reply

I found Wikipedia:Million Award today and was overjoyed. Very good thinking. Very sad to see that you have left. -- Ettrig ( talk) 14:47, 17 January 2014 (UTC) reply
Like all of the above editors, I am sorry to see you go. You are an excellent editor and Wikipedia is worse off for your retirement. Perhaps you just need some time off and will return to editing. All of us at Wikipedia hope that is the case. SMP0328. ( talk) 21:12, 18 January 2014 (UTC) reply
It is a blow to loose you. You have always been unfailingly helpful and polite and I wanted you to know I have really appreciated all you have done.-- SabreBD ( talk) 21:35, 18 January 2014 (UTC) reply
Rather than clutter your talkpage with another section, just thought I'd add to this one with how much I miss your presence at GAN. It occurred to me the other day that I hadn't seen you around for a while, and then I decided to see what had happened. Hope you decide to come back one day, and know that the people who appreciate your work far outweigh those who don't. Till then, MasterOfHisOwnDomain ( talk) 23:00, 26 February 2014 (UTC) reply

DYK for United Nations

Thanks for helping the wiki Victuallers ( talk) 16:02, 19 January 2014 (UTC) reply

A good legacy! Quoting from the edit notice of another of my missing friends: The only real nation is humanity, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 16:23, 19 January 2014 (UTC) reply
-- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 07:22, 18 April 2014 (UTC) reply

I only just heard about your departure

Sad news, but I understand your reasoning. People come and go, but their impact is seldom forgotten. If you ever change your mind, know that you'll always be welcome back here. Kurtis (talk) 22:38, 22 January 2014 (UTC) reply

Orphaned non-free image File:Crete, Charles Ginnever, 1976-78.jpg

⚠

Thanks for uploading File:Crete, Charles Ginnever, 1976-78.jpg. The image description page currently specifies that the image is non-free and may only be used on Wikipedia under a claim of fair use. However, the image is currently not used in any articles on Wikipedia. If the image was previously in an article, please go to the article and see why it was removed. You may add it back if you think that that will be useful. However, please note that images for which a replacement could be created are not acceptable for use on Wikipedia (see our policy for non-free media).

Note that any non-free images not used in any articles will be deleted after seven days, as described in the criteria for speedy deletion. Thank you. Stefan2 ( talk) 15:59, 17 February 2014 (UTC) reply

A barnstar for you!

The Tireless Contributor Barnstar
I just found out you left! That's terrible. I wish you the best in your endeavors. We have not had much contact, but I often saw your contributions on my watchlist and appreciated them immensely. Λuα ( Operibus anteire) 02:54, 18 February 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes, Issue 4

Books and Bytes

Volume 1, Issue 4, February 2014

News for February from your Wikipedia Library.

Donations drive: news on TWL's partnership efforts with publishers

Open Access: Feature from Ocaasi on the intersection of the library and the open access movement

American Library Association Midwinter Conference: TWL attended this year in Philadelphia

Royal Society Opens Access To Journals: The UK's venerable Royal Society will give the public (and Wikipedians) full access to two of their journal titles for two days on March 4th and 5th

Going Global: TWL starts work on pilot projects in other language Wikipedias

Read the full newsletter


MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 04:00, 1 March 2014 (UTC) reply

The reptiles of the world need you

Crocodylus novaeguineae and those like it are still in need of your attention, sir. MezzoMezzo ( talk) 03:36, 20 March 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes - Issue 5

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 5, March 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs)

  • New Visiting Scholar positions
  • TWL Branch on Arabic Wikipedia, microgrants program
  • Australian articles get a link to librarians
  • Spotlight: "7 Reasons Librarians Should Edit Wikipedia"

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 17:54, 19 April 2014 (UTC) reply

Invitation join the new Physiology Wikiproject!

Physiology gives us an understanding of how and why things in the field of medicine happen. Together, let us jumpstart the project and get it going. Our energy is all it needs.

Based on the long felt gap for categorization and improvization of WP:MED articles relating to the field of physiology, the new WikiProject Physiology has been created. WikiProject Physiology is still in its infancy and needs your help. On behalf of a group of editors striving to improve the quality of physiology articles here on Wikipedia, I would like to invite you to come on board and participate in the betterment of physiology related articles. Help us to jumpstart this WikiProject.

  • Feel free to leave us a message at any time on the WikiProkect Physiology talk page. If you are interested in joining the project yourself, there is a participant list where you can sign up. Please leave a message on the talk page if you have any problems, suggestions, would like review of an article, need suggestions for articles to edit, or would like some collaboration when editing!
  • You can tag the talk pages of relevant articles with {{WikiProject Physiology|class=|importance=}} with your assessment of the article class and importance alongwith. Please note that WP:Physiology, WP:Physio, WP:Phy can be used interchangeably.
  • You will make a big difference to the quality of information by adding reliable sources. Sourcing physiology articles is essential and makes a big difference to the quality of articles. And, while you're at it, why not use a book to source information, which can source multiple articles at once!
  • We try and use a standard way of arranging the content in each article. That layout is here. These headings let us have a standard way of presenting the information in anatomical articles, indicate what information may have been forgotten, and save angst when trying to decide how to organise an article. That said, this might not suit every article. If in doubt, be bold!
  • Why not try and strive to create a good article! Physiology related articles are often small in scope, have available sources, and only a limited amount of research available that is readily presentable!
  • Your contributions to the WikiProject page, related categories and templates is also welcome.
  • To invite other editors to this WikiProject, copy and past this template (with the signature):
  • To welcome editors of physiology articles, copy and past this template (with the signature):
  • You can feel free to contact us on the WikiProkect Physiology talk page if you have any problems, or wish to join us. You can also put your suggestions there and discuss the scope of participation.

Hoping for your cooperation! Diptanshu Talk 12:33, 27 April 2014 (UTC) reply

Hi there

I'm a Khazar too :)))) Are you Turkic, Chinese, Jewish, or Russian? Khazar ( talk) 21:58, 2 May 2014 (UTC) reply

Thank you for being one of Wikipedia's top medical contributors!

please help translate this message into the local language
The Cure Award
In 2013 you were one of the top 300 medical editors across any language of Wikipedia. Thank you so much for helping bring free, complete, accurate, up-to-date medical information to the public. We really appreciate you and the vital work you do!

We are wondering about the educational background of our top medical editors. Would you please complete a quick 5-question survey? (please only fill this out if you received the award)

Thanks again :) -- Ocaasi, Doc James and the team at Wiki Project Med Foundation

Merger of 4/14 window with Child evangelism movement

Sorry to bug you if you don't want to be contacted, just letting you know about a merge of an article you've edited

Merge discussion for 4/14 Window

An article that you have been involved in editing, 4/14 Window, has been proposed for a merge with another article. If you are interested in the merge discussion, please participate by going here, and adding your comments on the discussion page. Thank you. -- Aronzak ( talk) 14:43, 21 May 2014 (UTC) reply

Books & Bytes, Issue 6

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 6, April-May 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations from Oxford University Press and Royal Society (UK)
  • TWL does Vegas: American Library Association Annual plans
  • TWL welcomes a new coordinator, resources for library students and interns
  • New portal on Meta, resources for starting TWL branches, donor call blitzes, Wikipedia Visiting Scholar news, and more

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 00:59, 5 June 2014 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library: New Account Coordinators Needed

Hi Books & Bytes recipients: The Wikipedia Library has been expanding rapidly and we need some help! We currently have 10 signups for free account access open and several more in the works... In order to help with those signups, distribute access codes, and manage accounts we'll need 2-3 more Account Coordinators.

It takes about an hour to get up and running and then only takes a couple hours per week, flexible depending upon your schedule and routine. If you're interested in helping out, please drop a note in the next week at my talk page or shoot me an email at: jorlowitz@gmail.com. Thanks and cheers, Jake Ocaasi via MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:41, 20 June 2014 (UTC) reply

The article Guo Xiaojun has been proposed for deletion because of the following concern:

BLP1E

While all constructive contributions to Wikipedia are appreciated, content or articles may be deleted for any of several reasons.

You may prevent the proposed deletion by removing the {{proposed deletion/dated}} notice, but please explain why in your edit summary or on the article's talk page.

Please consider improving the article to address the issues raised. Removing {{proposed deletion/dated}} will stop the proposed deletion process, but other deletion processes exist. In particular, the speedy deletion process can result in deletion without discussion, and articles for deletion allows discussion to reach consensus for deletion. 180.172.239.231 ( talk) 08:56, 8 July 2014 (UTC) reply

Nomination of Guo Xiaojun for deletion

A discussion is taking place as to whether the article Guo Xiaojun is suitable for inclusion in Wikipedia according to Wikipedia's policies and guidelines or whether it should be deleted.

The article will be discussed at Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Guo Xiaojun until a consensus is reached, and anyone is welcome to contribute to the discussion. The nomination will explain the policies and guidelines which are of concern. The discussion focuses on high-quality evidence and our policies and guidelines.

Users may edit the article during the discussion, including to improve the article to address concerns raised in the discussion. However, do not remove the article-for-deletion notice from the top of the article. 180.172.239.231 ( talk) 02:27, 9 July 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 7

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 7, June-July 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • Seven new donations, two expanded partnerships
  • TWL's Final Report up, read the summary
  • Adventures in Las Vegas, WikiConference USA, and updates from TWL coordinators
  • Spotlight: Blog post on BNA's impact on one editor's research

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 22:20, 31 July 2014 (UTC) reply

FYI of ban discussion

See Wikipedia:Administrators'_noticeboard#Should_my_lone_active_ban_continue.3F.-- TonyTheTiger ( T / C / WP:FOUR / WP:CHICAGO / WP:WAWARD) 20:46, 2 September 2014 (UTC) reply

Thanks all

It's been a while since I caught up on this page, but I just wanted to thank everybody who left a kind note here. After a year or so of thinking about it, I'm still basically at the same point I was before--Wikipedia's a great project and a huge service to the world, but any time I look at a talk page I can't imagine wading back into the mess again. I've made my mark in a small way and I'm satisfied to leave it at that (and Mrs. and Little Miss Khazar certainly appreciate that more of my hours are now devoted to cooking instead of encyclopedia writing!).

But though I'm still awfully glad to be retired, it's always a pleasure to look here and remember all the great people I got a chance to work with. Keep up the good work, everybody; you'll always have me as a devoted reader. Cheers, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 16:06, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply

mm.. cooking :) Mohamed CJ (talk) 16:12, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Well, I'll be sure to keep you posted if we have anything interesting going on. :)  —  Crisco 1492 ( talk) 16:19, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Hi Khazar and thanks so much for popping in! Terrific to hear from you -- Diannaa ( talk) 16:21, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Good to hear from you, Khazar; hope all is well in your current endeavors. – Prototime ( talk · contribs) 18:14, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
You made my day by a sign of life and mentioning the little miss. I hope you like to be connected a colourful image of hope, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 19:38, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
ps: another GA for GA today, about my dreams. Which article of yours would like best to be translated to German? -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 21:30, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Thanks for the message Khazar. It's nice to know you're still reading Wikipedia. You aren't forgotten! Taylor Trescott - my talk + my edits 20:11, 6 September 2014 (UTC) reply
You are missed; there are several articles which could use your GA magic touch (such as JFK and RFK). I hope you return someday but if not, take care. Cheers, Kierzek ( talk) 00:38, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply
Good to hear from you! Glad to know you're doing alright. :) ComputerJA ( ) 20:38, 7 September 2014 (UTC) reply

Khazar, the amount of work you did with good article nominations last year has to be commended. You put a lot of effort and interest into this project and process, which I feel is one of the most important ones on Wikipedia, as I feel that improving an article to GA status is within every long term editor's grasp. Eric Corbett feels the same, he likes the GA process as it's lightweight and is a good way of showing to a reader that an article is readable and trustworthy. The comment you were upset about was with Eric being cross about a long term editor who was up for an Arbcom case, having previously been banned for two years, and that time got an indefinite topic ban as a result. I'm not sure that editor has ever taken an article to GA status (and if he has, it's not obvious). So, Eric was right.

I think possibly what happened is it was just the straw that broke the camel's back. You did an awful lot of work for Wikipedia and you were possibly simply burned out. It happens to all of us here who do good work - when you do that, you find the next thing is more work. Even though I have improved 30 articles to GA status, it's approximately 0% of all articles on Wikipedia. Take care and come back when you ready. Try improving an article to GA with Eric, you may be surprised at the collaboration and the end result. Ritchie333 (talk) (cont) 10:18, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply

Thank you. I improved Andreas Scholl with Eric, it was delightful. While you two improving an article together sounds like music of a future, I might offer you to just review, St John Passion structure for GA, nominated in March, written with passion, and now also in memory of the conductor who told me these things. Quoting myself: I will not forget how he silently put the symbol of the peace movement next to the score. -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 11:07, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Hey Ritchie, really good to hear from you! (And always you too Gerda, and everybody above.) You're both included in the editors I greatly admire and therefore hesitate to disagree with. I'll just say that to me, the fact that the Eric Corbett Wars continue to rage--I've only been back watching my page the last week or two, and already been pinged about it--is an indicator that the problem goes beyond any single comment (certainly for me it did). And without civility as a legitimate pillar, I feel like Wikipedia is much more of a grind than other ways to volunteer online.
But I realize perceptions of this vary and am happy to agree to disagree. Heck, I'm selfishly glad people like you are still here writing good content for people like me to read! You guys are great, and your work is deeply appreciated. =) -- Khazar2 ( talk) 14:07, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Thanks. All I can say is that if Eric rages, he does it for a reason. As for me, I've had at least one GA nomination in the pipeline for over two years now, and I'd be concerned if it ever got down to zero! Give St John Passion structure a go, I'm absolutely confident Gerda knows what she's doing, but I've never reviewed a classical music article before so I'm concerned I'd make a ham-fisted job of it. Ritchie333 (talk) (cont) 14:25, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
Gerda, I very regretfully have to pass on reviewing that one. But I did read and enjoy it, and am enjoying listening to it right now, too! -- Khazar2 ( talk) 14:56, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
  • Hi Khazar, just wanted to say I didn't intentionally mean to disturb you with this. When I "pinged" you I didn't realise you were still watching and I was only intending to link to your name for others to reference. Hope all's well. DeCausa ( talk) 17:13, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply
  • No problem at all, and all the best to you too, Khazar2 ( talk) 17:41, 3 October 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 8

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 8, August-September2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • TWL now a Wikimedia Foundation program, moves on from grant status
  • Four new donations, including large DeGruyter parntership, pilot with Elsevier
  • New TWL coordinators, Wikimania news, new library platform discussions, Wiki Loves Libraries update, and more
  • Spotlight: "Traveling Through History" - an editor talks about his experiences with a TWL newspaper archive, Newspapers.com

Read the full newsletter



MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 04:51, 7 October 2014 (UTC) reply

I used your model at award you created, and then this happened

Hi, Khazar2, I hope you're doing well, and thanks very much for creating WP:Million Award. :)

I used your model at the award you created, giving out one combined award for multiple articles, together, DIFF.

Unfortunately, this appears to have irked some who are complaining about wanting to have received multiple different awards for each individual article. I tried to explain that you created the award to be no big deal, that one could even award themselves the award, to no avail, so far.

The phrase don't look a gift horse in the mouth comes to mind, but oh well. :P

Perhaps you could comment at Wikipedia_talk:Million_Award#Cleared_the_backlogs ? — Cirt ( talk) 08:17, 27 October 2014 (UTC) reply

  1. Is it an intended practice of the award to self-award? (already indicated by you in the past at DIFF)
  2. Is it an intended practice to give out recognition of multiple articles bundled into one? (already indicated by you in the past at DIFF)
Hey Cirt, glad to hear you're still active there. I appreciate the note (and also the knowledge that you awarded more of these), but I'm going to stay out of this one. Not only am I retired, but I also previously had to request an interaction ban with Tony after he hounded me on another awards-related dispute. However the award develops from here is fine with me.
Thanks for helping keep the award alive, though! It'll be great if WP can continue to fill in most-read core content. Happy writing, -- Khazar2 ( talk) 15:39, 8 November 2014 (UTC) reply
I understand, and you're most welcome. You might enjoy my newest Quality improvement project, for the Hitachi Magic Wand. Cheers, — Cirt ( talk) 18:03, 8 November 2014 (UTC) reply

New Wikipedia Library Accounts Now Available (November 2014)

Hello Wikimedians!

The TWL OWL says sign up today :)

The Wikipedia Library is announcing signups today for, free, full-access accounts to published research as part of our Publisher Donation Program. You can sign up for:

  • DeGruyter: 1000 new accounts for English and German-language research. Sign up on one of two language Wikipedias:
  • Fold3: 100 new accounts for American history and military archives
  • Scotland's People: 100 new accounts for Scottish genealogy database
  • British Newspaper Archive: expanded by 100+ accounts for British newspapers
  • Highbeam: 100+ remaining accounts for newspaper and magazine archives
  • Questia: 100+ remaining accounts for journal and social science articles
  • JSTOR: 100+ remaining accounts for journal archives

Do better research and help expand the use of high quality references across Wikipedia projects: sign up today!
-- The Wikipedia Library Team 23:25, 5 November 2014 (UTC)

You can host and coordinate signups for a Wikipedia Library branch in your own language. Please contact Ocaasi (WMF).
This message was delivered via the Mass Message to the Book & Bytes recipient list.

Some kind words

After seeing your name appear on a talk page somewhere it reminded me that I had not seen it a long time. Last year I had seen it frequently around DYK and now I found out that you are retired. I just wish to express my sincere thanks for all the great work you've done in your time here. More than once I have found myself reading articles that you have contributed to making GA (albeit unknown to me at the time). Your argument on improving important articles still makes a lot of sense, though I have to admit I'm one those editors on obscure topics myself, haha. Thank you for your lasting contributions. Crispulop ( talk) 21:19, 1 December 2014 (UTC) reply

New Wikipedia Library Accounts Now Available (December 2014)

Hello Wikimedians!

The TWL OWL says sign up today :)

The Wikipedia Library is announcing signups today for, free, full-access accounts to published research as part of our Publisher Donation Program. You can sign up for:

Other partnerships with accounts available are listed on our partners page. Do better research and help expand the use of high quality references across Wikipedia projects: sign up today!
-- The Wikipedia Library Team.00:25, 18 December 2014 (UTC)

You can host and coordinate signups for a Wikipedia Library branch in your own language. Please contact Ocaasi (WMF).
This message was delivered via the Mass Message tool to the Book & Bytes recipient list.

Global account

Hi Khazar2! As a Steward I'm involved in the upcoming unification of all accounts organized by the Wikimedia Foundation (see m:Single User Login finalisation announcement). By looking at your your account, I realized that you don't have a global account yet. In order to secure your name, I recommend you to create such account on your own by submitting your password on Special:MergeAccount and unifying your local accounts. If you have any problems with doing that or further questions, please don't hesitate to ping me with {{ping|DerHexer}}. Cheers, — DerHexer  (Talk) 11:16, 30 December 2014 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 9

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 9, November-December 2014
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations, including real-paper-and-everything books, e-books, science journal databases, and more
  • New TWL coordinators, conference news, a new open-access journal database, summary of library-related WMF grants, and more
  • Spotlight: "Global Impact: The Wikipedia Library and Persian Wikipedia" - a Persian Wikipedia editor talks about their experiences with database access in Iran, writing on the Persian project and the JSTOR partnership

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:36, 8 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Notifying you due to your prior participation in a merger discussion

  1. Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/2012 tour of She Has a Name
  2. Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Critical response to She Has a Name

Notifying you due to your prior participation in a merger discussion.

You previously participated in a merger discussion at Talk:She_Has_a_Name#Merger_proposal.

There are now two (2) ongoing deletion discussions related to that, at Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/2012 tour of She Has a Name and Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/Critical response to She Has a Name.

Cheers,

Cirt ( talk) 23:54, 13 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Precious again

Rare and enlightening
Thank you for raising awareness for Human Rights and those who suffer fighting for them, people who deserve attention and serve as models! On the day when you achieved your goal, - you are an awesome Wikipedian!

-- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 12:30, 25 January 2015 (UTC) reply

Three years ago, you were the third person to whom I gave the sapphire as a token of recognition, - you received the Pumpkin Sky Prize before PumpkinSky ;) - you serve as a model for article quality and for human right, -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 12:30, 25 January 2012 (UTC) reply

We thought of you: did you know ... * ... that the chronicle Gesta Hungarorum (pictured) explicitly mentions only the Khazars and Székelys as peoples who inhabited the realm of Duke Menumorut around 900? -- Gerda Arendt ( talk) 21:40, 27 January 2015 (UTC) reply

About your (non)participation in the January 2012 SOPA vote

Hi Khazar2. I am Piotr Konieczny ( User:Piotrus), you may know me as an active content creator (see my userpage), but I am also a professional researcher of Wikipedia. Recently I published a paper (downloadable here) on reasons editors participated in Wikipedia's biggest vote to date (January 2012 WP:SOPA). I am now developing a supplementary paper, which analyzes why many editors did not take part in that vote. Which is where you come in :) You are a highly active Wikipedian (73rd to be exact), and you were active back during the January 2012 discussion/voting for the SOPA, yet you did not chose to participate in said vote. I'd appreciate it if you could tell me why was that so? For your convenience, I prepared a short survey at meta, which should not take more than a minute of your time. I would dearly appreciate you taking this minute; not only as a Wikipedia researcher but as a fellow content creator and concerned member of the community (I believe your answers may help us eventually improve our policies and thus, the project's governance). PS. If you chose to reply here (on your userpage), please WP:ECHO me. Thank you! -- Piotr Konieczny aka Prokonsul Piotrus| reply here 23:28, 11 February 2015 (UTC) reply

TFL notification

Hi, Khazar. I'm just posting to let you know that CPJ International Press Freedom Awards – a list that you have been heavily involved with – has been chosen to appear on the Main Page as Today's featured list for March 23. The TFL blurb can be seen here. If you have any thoughts on the selection, please post them on my talk page or at TFL talk. Regards, Giants2008 ( Talk) 22:32, 27 February 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 10

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 10, January-February 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - ProjectMUSE, Dynamed, Royal Pharmaceutical Society, and Women Writers Online
  • New TWL coordinator, conference news, and a new guide and template for archivists
  • TWL moves into the new Community Engagement department at the WMF, quarterly review

Read the full newsletter

MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 17:40, 4 March 2015 (UTC) reply

A new reference tool

Hello Books & Bytes subscribers. There is a new Visual Editor reference feature in development called Citoid. It is designed to "auto-fill" references using a URL or DOI. We would really appreciate you testing whether TWL partners' references work in Citoid. Sharing your results will help the developers fix bugs and improve the system. If you have a few minutes, please visit the testing page for simple instructions on how to try this new tool. Regards, MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 18:47, 10 April 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 11

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 11, March-April 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - MIT Press Journals, Sage Stats, Hein Online and more
  • New TWL coordinators, conference news, and new reference projects
  • Spotlight: Two metadata librarians talk about how library professionals can work with Wikipedia

Read the full newsletter



MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 23:25, 4 May 2015 (UTC) reply

The Wikipedia Library needs you!

The Wikipedia Library

Call for Volunteers

The Wikipedia Library is expanding, and we need your help! With only a couple of hours per week, you can make a big difference in helping editors get access to reliable sources and other resources. Sign up for one of the following roles:

  • Account coordinators help distribute research accounts to editors.
  • Partner coordinators seek donations from new partners.
  • Outreach coordinators reach out to the community through blog posts, social media, and newsletters or notifications.
  • Technical coordinators advise on building tools to support the library's work.
Sign up to help here :)

Delivered on behalf of The Wikipedia Library by MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 06:16, 11 June 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 12

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 12, May-June 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - Taylor & Francis, Science, and three new French-language resources
  • Expansion into new languages, including French, Finnish, Turkish, and Farsi
  • Spotlight: New partners for the Visiting Scholar program
  • American Library Association Annual meeting in San Francisco

Read the full newsletter

The Interior 15:23, 16 July 2015 (UTC) reply

BBC Southern Counties Radio

Please become involved in the discussion on the Wiki page for BBC Southern Counties Radio. IT appears someone doesn't understand rules and the notable person scenario. 86.151.115.174 ( talk) 20:58, 24 September 2015 (UTC) reply

BBC Southern Counties Radio

Please become involved in the discussion on the Wiki page for BBC Southern Counties Radio. IT appears someone doesn't understand rules and the notable person scenario. 86.151.115.174 ( talk) 20:58, 24 September 2015 (UTC) reply

Books and Bytes - Issue 13

The Wikipedia Library

Books & Bytes
Issue 13, August-September 2015
by The Interior ( talk · contribs), Ocaasi ( talk · contribs), Sadads ( talk · contribs), Nikkimaria ( talk · contribs)

  • New donations - EBSCO, IMF, more newspaper archives, and Arabic resources
  • Expansion into new languages, including Viet and Catalan
  • Spotlight: Elsevier partnership garners controversy, dialogue
  • Conferences: PKP, IFLA, upcoming events

Read the full newsletter

The Interior via MediaWiki message delivery ( talk) 16:30, 1 October 2015 (UTC) reply


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