Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

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Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Moonage Daydream » Sat Sep 15, 2012 9:03 pm

An interesting discussion has popped up on the DYK ("Did You Know") talk page. The Gibraltarpedia project seems to be nothing more or less than an effort to encourage tourism and some folks find the use of WP's front page to be questionable.
And in July the Gibraltar’s Director of Heritage was saying about how he was so happy the tourism board was helping with the idea and that they had to be assured that negative articles would not be written (of course that doesn't mean volunteers are deliberately making positive articles, but it does speak to who is behind this project). Anyone can make a GLAM page. PanydThe muffin is not subtle 18:47, 14 September 2012 (UTC)

I just totally got it, and I agree with you. It's not about the editor. It's about DYK being successfully used in a for-profit commercial venture by any entity. In this case, free advertising for tourism. The link you just posted is pretty damning evidence of that. Maile66 (talk) 19:01, 14 September 2012 (UTC)

I should clarify that Gibraltarpedia is not actually a Wikimedia UK project (like the link says). It's run by people from the UK, but the UK chapter haven't funded it, nor are they involved in the running of it. The Cavalry (Message me) 19:07, 14 September 2012 (UTC)

Hmm, that's disconcerting. I don't like the commercial vibe that the linked article gives off or their idea of reverting "nasty" press. I wonder if anyone gets paid for doing the articles (definite COI) or if it's a volunteer type thing. I don't see how this is any different from advertising games/tv shows or political candidates, so the same general rules and cautions would have to be applied. Froggerlaura ribbit 19:13, 14 September 2012 (UTC)

I believe the term is, "We've been had." In addition to DYK taking note of this, wouldn't the whole issue be a larger scope that should be addressed somewhere? You can't deny the articles that have appeared here are well-written and well-sourced. Of course, they would be able to write professionally, wouldn't they? It's just that Wikipedia over-all has been successfully used by a for-profit venture. Doesn't that go beyond DYK for Wikipedia? Maile66 (talk) 19:18, 14 September 2012 (UTC)
Who is running this project? Former chair of WMUK and current WMUK trustee Roger Bamkin.
At the end of June Roger signed a contract with the Government of Gibraltar. There is no known COI as WMUK does not have a relationship with this Government but it is hoped that one may develop. Roger has a business relationship with John Cummings and Steve Virgin.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by greybeard » Sat Sep 15, 2012 10:12 pm

The Wikipedia article on Gibraltar (T-H-L) has been a frequent locus of partisan editing, where British and Spanish partisans square off on obscure issues concerning Gibraltar's sovereign status, or lack thereof.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Sun Sep 16, 2012 12:03 am

Moonage Daydream wrote: Who is running this project? Former chair of WMUK and current WMUK trustee Roger Bamkin.
At the end of June Roger signed a contract with the Government of Gibraltar. There is no known COI as WMUK does not have a relationship with this Government but it is hoped that one may develop. Roger has a business relationship with John Cummings and Steve Virgin.
I recall he resigned as chair because of his paid consultancy for Monmouthpedia ... and I am actually surprised (and had forgotten) that he is still on the board of trustees, given his conflicts of interest. Extraordinary. Steve Virgin is a former WMUK board member (and seems to go by the handle of Steve Boisset on Facebook).

Conflicts of interest are handled badly in Wikiland. Chapter trustees for example are eligible to sit on the new Funds Dissemination Committee distributing millions of dollars of donations to – chapters.

Someone should tell Orangemike about this. :D

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Sun Sep 16, 2012 12:05 am

greybeard wrote:The Wikipedia article on Gibraltar (T-H-L) has been a frequent locus of partisan editing, where British and Spanish partisans square off on obscure issues concerning Gibraltar's sovereign status, or lack thereof.
Yep. Fewer people, but just as much at loggerheads as editors focused on Northern Ireland, or Israel/Palestine.
As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=25479

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by tarantino » Sun Sep 16, 2012 12:23 am

Moonage Daydream wrote:An interesting discussion has popped up on the DYK ("Did You Know") talk page. The Gibraltarpedia project seems to be nothing more or less than an effort to encourage tourism and some folks find the use of WP's front page to be questionable.
From the minutes of the board meeting on Sep 8 2012.
Roger updated the board on Gibraltarpedia, and explained how he would like to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Wikimedia UK. This would not involve the transfer of any funds, but would mean that Wikimedia UK would offer in-kind support in the form of press coverage and various merchandise.
DECISION: Yes Image It was agreed that the office can support Gibraltarpedia with in-kind contributions, but not funds

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Sun Sep 16, 2012 1:38 pm

I've raised the matter on the Wikimedia UK mailing list.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 2:03 pm

I'm feeling more than usually dim. Is this the story? "Roger Bamkin, a trustee of the Wikimedia Foundation UK, is a paid PR consultant for Gibraltar and secured the agreement of Wikimedia UK to promote his client's interests."

If so, wow.

Christ on a popsicle stick: They even have an article on Gibraltarpedia started by an editor called Ian Pigott who explains he is "creating article on Gibraltarpedia designed to make Gibraltar the world's first digital city."

And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Vigilant » Sun Sep 16, 2012 2:26 pm

DanMurphy wrote:I'm feeling more than usually dim. Is this the story? "Roger Bamkin, a trustee of the Wikimedia Foundation UK, is a paid PR consultant for Gibraltar and secured the agreement of Wikimedia UK to promote his client's interests."

If so, wow.

Christ on a popsicle stick: They even have an article on Gibraltarpedia started by an editor called Ian Pigott who explains he is "creating article on Gibraltarpedia designed to make Gibraltar the world's first digital city."

And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 2:39 pm

This is also looking some strange intramural squabble. I believe "Panyd" is or was the girlfriend of the "Chase me" guy who, from memory, got some kind of paying gig out of Wikimedia.

Roger Bamkin to Panyd a few days ago, which he calls a question "in coi at dyk."
I wasnt aware that editors working on the same project were not allowed to approve each others nominations. Obviously blindness affects us all on some days. Usually it is thougfht useful to have a review by someone who does know something about the subject. [[User:Victuallers|Victuallers]] ([[User talk:Victuallers|talk]]) 07:52, 12 September 2012 (UTC)
He does not mention, of course, he is being paid to make the edits, make the approvals, and to organize people to support his actions. Pretty slithery character.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Sun Sep 16, 2012 4:22 pm

There is also this for example:
Gibraltarpedia and plant articles

Hey Victuallers. So I'm unclear on this, does it have to have a bluelink to Gibraltar? The List of plants in the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens contain plants that are not actually native to Gibraltar, but are nonetheless included in the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens. As such, there would be no way to mention Gibraltar naturally in the article text. Does this mean I should only create articles for plants native to Gibraltar in order for the article to qualify? -- OBSIDIAN†SOUL 06:39, 15 September 2012 (UTC)

I'd be happy with a gib botanic gardens link... does that solve the problem? Oh and welcme aboard. We plan to launch a sub competition for flora and fauna - do you think there would be a wider appeal. Ding flowers fulfils our "bridge to africa" as many will be on both sides of the water Victuallers (talk) 07:16, 15 September 2012 (UTC)

Honestly, no it doesn't solve the problem. As I understand the primary aim of filling in the list is to add QR codes to the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens collection, but a large majority of those plants in the list are present in virtually every major botanical garden worldwide (Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Missouri Botanical Garden, Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney, etc.). It'd be WP:UNDUE to mention the Gibraltar Botanic Gardens (or any botanic garden at all). Anyway, I don't know how appealing a subcompetition would be, as there are comparatively few editors focusing on flora and fauna on Wikipedia, but sure, it sounds like a good way to fill in missing plant and animal articles. (Oh and I'm in this purely for the spirit, ;) rather than the prizes)-- OBSIDIAN†SOUL 07:56, 15 September 2012 (UTC)

OK I understand your position and its a reasonable one - we'll have a think about it. I think there are solutions Victuallers (talk) 08:49, 15 September 2012 (UTC)
What say ye?

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Sun Sep 16, 2012 4:24 pm

DanMurphy wrote:I'm feeling more than usually dim. Is this the story? "Roger Bamkin, a trustee of the Wikimedia Foundation UK, is a paid PR consultant for Gibraltar and secured the agreement of Wikimedia UK to promote his client's interests."

If so, wow.
Frankly, yes – I can't see how it is anything other than that.

(Weren't we going to have an "Oh the hypocrisy" byline to add to the random bylines for the home page?)

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Moonage Daydream » Sun Sep 16, 2012 4:49 pm

DanMurphy wrote:This is also looking some strange intramural squabble. I believe "Panyd" is or was the girlfriend of the "Chase me" guy who, from memory, got some kind of paying gig out of Wikimedia.
That paying gig is as "Office and Development Manager" at WMUK.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Moonage Daydream » Sun Sep 16, 2012 5:12 pm

This issue may require a more thorough investigation.

From the minutes of the 8 September 2012 board meeting (the "strategy session" part concerning volunteers):
There was a fair amount of discussion about how we can manage a budget of this size and complexity. We don't have enough 'thought leaders' to do this - it's not just an issue of money. We will probably need to hire volunteer "thought leaders"! There was lots of discussion about changing government policy - is this worth a £5k budget line, perhaps? Roger thinks we need to talk about the top two or three ideas that came out of today, and see if they're in the plan!

These ideas were:
  • * Increasing volunteer grants. Travel grants were suggested to go up from 15k to 25k. Fae suggested up to £40k in 'program and project grants'. Possibly hiring someone to manage the projects and come up with objectives, outcomes, 'kill points' (Fae's term) etc - a project manager for six months to a year, including helping people write proposals. Fae suggests, based on his professional experience, a six month post to set up a proper project and grant management process. Possibly, in future, we would hire a full time permanent project manager.
  • * Helping volunteers more. We'll therefore be hiring a volunteer developmernt and support person. Already decided. Job description to be written in next few months.
  • * "short term projects", eg hiring John Cummings. Has to be done openly if the idea is ours: but can also be done if someone approaches us with a project.
From the 8 September 2012 reports (Bamkin's section):
Gibraltarpedia
I've created an updated copy of an MOU that Chris abnd I discussed. I'd like to get this approved in principle at the board meeting. If we can get any issues highlighted before the meeting then we should be able to solve these quickly. This should be available with board papers. Decision

John Byrne has mentioned that he would like to know more about Gib. We have few secrets so I'd be happy to talk the board through our plans. I guess this might take 20 mins plus questions. Since we spoke, we now have the support of the Catalans as well as the Moroccan contingent.

We have highlighted that there are three UK/GLAM related conferences next spring. This needs to be managed. John C is delaying starting work in Gib in order to help with this at first day of GLAM camp.

Monmouthpedia
As we said this has pretty much stalled and its a joint effort I think. John and I are meeting one of their senior managers on 31st in Monmouth with Steve Virgin and WestonSuperMarePedia interest group. So I may know more. I have warned MCC that they are due to give reports to us and WMF in line with our agreements but we'll see. It seems likely that the QRpedia agreement won't be ready to be both read, approved by the next meeting. Can the board agree a new position? I do not at present have a financial arrangement with Monmouth. I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK. Not sure that board appreciate that Chepstow and Raglan are included in our existing MOU.
Wales

I'm guessing that Robin is reporting through Chris or Jon?
Recall that "Roger has a business relationship with John Cummings and Steve Virgin". Who is Robin?

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 5:22 pm

This is thoroughly corrupt. If someone was doing paid editing on corporate articles outside of "wikimedia" channels they'd be calling for his head. But since it's Roger Bamkin and fellow Wikimedia UK pals, it's peachy that their doing paid advocacy in collaboration with wikimedia higher ups themselves. They're currently setting up a walled garden of articles all with an eye to promoting tourism and investment in Gibraltar. Absolutely fascinating. This is a great example of not just the hypocrisy of Wikipedia, but the complete blindness to that hypocrisy given the lack of competent editorial oversight and administration. You have to say "well played" to Bamkin et al; they managed to subvert the thing entirely to their interests.

I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Randy from Boise » Sun Sep 16, 2012 5:50 pm

DanMurphy wrote:
And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?
Because paid editing is not a bannable offense. Spamming on behalf of a client or clients is. It's a fine line.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Vocal » Sun Sep 16, 2012 5:55 pm

Randy from Boise wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:
And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?
Because paid editing is not a bannable offense. Spamming on behalf of a client or clients is. It's a fine line.

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So can someone explain it to Jimbo?
Some things are not policy simply because it's never been necessary to make it policy. It is not ok with me that anyone ever set up a service selling their services as a Wikipedia editor, administrator, bureaucrat, etc. I will personally block any cases that I am shown. There are of course some possibly interesting alternatives, not particularly relevant here, but the idea that we should ever accept paid advocates directly editing Wikipedia is not ever going to be ok. Consider this to be policy as of right now.[...]

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 5:57 pm

Listen "Randy" what's "bannable" or not is determined only by the whims of the mob and the social capital of the people involved. There are no consistently or fairly applied rules at Wikipedia. That "fine line" horseshit is particularly odoriferous horeshit, even coming from you. The ambiguity that runs through the heart of Wikipedia's so-called policies is there precisely so it can be exploited by insiders. I would love to see Ogilvy approach Wikimedia, say they've just got a big contract with Bahrain to "improve positive information about the country on Wikipedia" and ask for help. Wonder how that would go? (Ogilvy are major PR pros, unlike Bamkin, who seems small time).

Oh, and there is this:
COI editing is routinely exposed and can be reported adversely in the media. All edits are on the public record and remain so indefinitely. You do not control articles and others may delete them, keep them, or add information that would have remained little-known. While Wikipedians generally avoid naming editors and their paymasters, other media routinely do. This has led at times to extreme media embarrassment for the company or organization, dismissal (firing) of those at fault, and at times even court actions or charges, if done in a work or professional context. Editing in the interests of public relations (other than obvious corrections) is particularly frowned upon. This includes, but is not limited to, professionals paid to create or edit Wikipedia articles. Wikipedia is a very public forum, and news of attempts to improperly influence Wikipedia are frequently reported in the media.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Peter Damian » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:03 pm

Hmm there's a pile of DYK's for Gibraltar here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia: ... 012/August . The first article I looked at was written mostly by Victuallers Ltd. http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?tit ... on=history

Our friend Silver Seren defended this, saying that it is actually improving Wikipedia. Which it is, I suppose, but it is a form of bias in that only positive articles will be promoted.
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:05 pm

Here's a discussion from April involving Bamkin's paid editing project "Monmouthpedia." Bamkin's business partner John Cummings was blocked on Wikipedia for editing using a "role account," Bamkin unblocks his business partner, the usual flailing, whining and random nonsense ensued.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Randy from Boise » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:11 pm

DanMurphy wrote:Listen "Randy" what's "bannable" or not is determined only by the whims of the mob and the social capital of the people involved. There are no consistently or fairly applied rules at Wikipedia. That "fine line" horseshit is particularly odoriferous horeshit, even coming from you. The ambiguity that runs through the heart of Wikipedia's so-called policies is there precisely so it can be exploited by insiders. I would love to see Ogilvy approach Wikimedia, say they've just got a big contract with Bahrain to "improve positive information about the country on Wikipedia" and ask for help. Wonder how that would go? (Ogilvy are major PR pros, unlike Bamkin, who seems small time).

Oh, and there is this:
COI editing is routinely exposed and can be reported adversely in the media. All edits are on the public record and remain so indefinitely. You do not control articles and others may delete them, keep them, or add information that would have remained little-known. While Wikipedians generally avoid naming editors and their paymasters, other media routinely do. This has led at times to extreme media embarrassment for the company or organization, dismissal (firing) of those at fault, and at times even court actions or charges, if done in a work or professional context. Editing in the interests of public relations (other than obvious corrections) is particularly frowned upon. This includes, but is not limited to, professionals paid to create or edit Wikipedia articles. Wikipedia is a very public forum, and news of attempts to improperly influence Wikipedia are frequently reported in the media.
You obviously have not been paying much attention to the CREWE/paid editing debate over the past year. You might be advised to read more and run your mouth less... The current state of the debate, the standing interpretation of the sometimes contradictory rules and unofficial signals sent on the question of paid editing, is that paid editing is not bannable on a per se basis; that it is the edits and not the status of the editor that determine the issue; that COI editing is highly discouraged but not officially prohibited; that COI should be declared on each talk page involved, but even this is not required (sensible though that may be).

That's all right on the mark. I won't wait for your apology since you've got about 150,000 words of reading to make up on this matter, clearly.

Now, is the Bamkin/WMUK/Gibraltarpedia situation clean? I never said that. I don't know. It certainly bears more scrutiny. It would be a good topic to be raised at the Jimbo Wales talk page, for instance. It would be good if the COI hardliners like my friend Orange Mike were apprised of the situation. I agree with that...

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Moonage Daydream » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:15 pm

DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.

To answer my own question, "Robin" is Robin Owain (listed in the minutes as attending the meeting and speaking about "proposals for Wales"). According to this write-up by John Cummings, Owain is a "Welsh language contributor and Beaurocrat[sic] on Wikipedia Cymraeg". I would hazard a guess then that he is WP editor Llywelyn2000 (T-C-L), who coincidentally wrote the WP article Robin Owain (T-H-L). Here is a WMUK blog post about Bamkin and Owain promoting cultural learning in Wales in August.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Peter Damian » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:16 pm

"Did you know" that Grand Casemates Square (pictured), once the site of public hangings, is now one of Gibraltar's main squares and nightlife hubs?

And in the article itself, it says that the square "is lined with numerous pubs, bars and restaurants, making it one of Gibraltar's al fresco dining and nightlife hubs and acts as the gateway into Gibraltar's city centre for most tourists." Sounds like those leaflets printed by the local tourist board. Nice work "Victuallers".

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?tit ... tes_Square
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 6:20 pm

Moonage Daydream wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.
I assumed from context that he was seeking money for Monmouthpedia work.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Volunteer Marek » Sun Sep 16, 2012 7:13 pm

Mmm... I smell more work for ArbCom. Maybe not now, but sooner or later fer sure.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by thekohser » Sun Sep 16, 2012 7:36 pm

DanMurphy wrote:And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?
From Wikipedia:Username policy #Promotional names:
The following types of usernames are not permitted because they are considered promotional:

* Usernames that unambiguously consist of a name of a company, group, institution or product (e.g. AlexTownWidgets, MyWidgetsUSA.com, TrammelMuseumofArt). However usernames that contain such names are sometimes permissible; see under Usernames implying shared use below.

* Email addresses and URLs (such as "Alice@example.com" and "Example.com"). Plain domain names (without .com, .co.kr, etc.) are sometimes acceptable, such as when the purpose is simply to identify the user as a person, but they are inappropriate if they promote a commercial Web page.

A user who both adopts a promotional username and also engages in inappropriately promotional behaviors in articles about the company, group, or product, can be blocked. In such cases, administrators should examine the user's edits to decide whether or not to allow them to create a new username. If there is evidence that the user would continue to edit inappropriately under a new username, the blocking administrator should enable the "autoblock" and "prevent account creation" features. Otherwise, the user should be offered the opportunity to create a new account. (Before blocking, disagreements as to whether a particular username is acceptable should be discussed at WP:Requests for comment/Usernames.) Users who adopt such usernames, but who are not editing problematically in related articles, should not be blocked. Instead, they should be gently encouraged to change their username.
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 7:46 pm

What's also interesting is that paid editor and PR guy Roger Bamkin, has been presenting himself as a member of Wikmedia UK overseeing the formulation of the very "guidelines" that govern how he can edit Wikipedia on his clients behalf:
Roger Bamkin, chair of Wikimedia UK (the UK branch of the Wikimedia Foundation, which is the charity that runs Wikipedia), says, “Recent incidents highlighted by Tom Watson MP and in the national press show that in some parts of the PR profession, a lack of understanding on how to engage with the Wikipedia community persists. We will work with the CIPR to ensure that their members, and through them the wider PR Profession, have access to the clearest possible guidance on the best way to work with Wikipedia. We believe that attempts to mask the true identity of anyone seeking to edit the site are unethical as well as counterproductive.”

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Randy from Boise » Sun Sep 16, 2012 9:20 pm

thekohser wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:And Roger Bamkin is "Victuallers" on Wikipedia. Victuallers Ltd is the name of his company that has a contract with Gibraltar. He's a paid editor. Why is he not banned?
From Wikipedia:Username policy #Promotional names:
The following types of usernames are not permitted because they are considered promotional:

* Usernames that unambiguously consist of a name of a company, group, institution or product (e.g. AlexTownWidgets, MyWidgetsUSA.com, TrammelMuseumofArt). However usernames that contain such names are sometimes permissible; see under Usernames implying shared use below.

* Email addresses and URLs (such as "Alice@example.com" and "Example.com"). Plain domain names (without .com, .co.kr, etc.) are sometimes acceptable, such as when the purpose is simply to identify the user as a person, but they are inappropriate if they promote a commercial Web page.

A user who both adopts a promotional username and also engages in inappropriately promotional behaviors in articles about the company, group, or product, can be blocked. In such cases, administrators should examine the user's edits to decide whether or not to allow them to create a new username. If there is evidence that the user would continue to edit inappropriately under a new username, the blocking administrator should enable the "autoblock" and "prevent account creation" features. Otherwise, the user should be offered the opportunity to create a new account. (Before blocking, disagreements as to whether a particular username is acceptable should be discussed at WP:Requests for comment/Usernames.) Users who adopt such usernames, but who are not editing problematically in related articles, should not be blocked. Instead, they should be gently encouraged to change their username.
I suppose the question is whether the name and the company name are "unambiguous." The correct response, even if "unambiguous," is for a block of the name followed by instructions to re-register, not banning. I've seen evidence in Orange Mike's log that he's unilaterally blocked for names roughly comparable to this. To my mind, if the name was User:VictuallersLtd or User:VictuallersConsultants, it'd be blockable, but the Victuallers name is more ambiguous out of context. Sort of an opinion call, I suppose. I could see a proper debate going either way...

RfB

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by thekohser » Sun Sep 16, 2012 9:42 pm

Randy from Boise wrote: I suppose the question is whether the name and the company name are "unambiguous." The correct response, even if "unambiguous," is for a block of the name followed by instructions to re-register, not banning. I've seen evidence in Orange Mike's log that he's unilaterally blocked for names roughly comparable to this. To my mind, if the name was User:VictuallersLtd or User:VictuallersConsultants, it'd be blockable, but the Victuallers name is more ambiguous out of context. Sort of an opinion call, I suppose. I could see a proper debate going either way...

RfB
Yes, Randy... they should unblock User:MyWikiBiz (T-C-L), since the name of the PA Entity is "MyWikiBiz.com", not "MyWikiBiz". Please see to it that this happens soon, so that Wikipedia may be improved.

As for your bullcrap apologetics for Orangemike's block list, I see him blocking user accounts for the "spamusernameblock" reason, when it's not at all clear the user name is "unambigously" a company name. Examples:

* Tweedrun
* Vijaytamil1
* Themindsrng
* GPIntelligentC
* Hamidalirealtor

I didn't have to go digging around for those examples. They were all made TODAY by Orangemike.

Just admit that one of Wikipedia's "own" is being protected here out of proportion to what the policies dictate. It's yet another example of leadership by hypocrisy at the Wikimedia Foundation and its various corrupt projects.
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Vigilant » Sun Sep 16, 2012 11:30 pm

Moonage Daydream wrote:This issue may require a more thorough investigation.

From the minutes of the 8 September 2012 board meeting (the "strategy session" part concerning volunteers):
There was a fair amount of discussion about how we can manage a budget of this size and complexity. We don't have enough 'thought leaders' to do this - it's not just an issue of money. We will probably need to hire volunteer "thought leaders"! There was lots of discussion about changing government policy - is this worth a £5k budget line, perhaps? Roger thinks we need to talk about the top two or three ideas that came out of today, and see if they're in the plan!

These ideas were:
  • * Increasing volunteer grants. Travel grants were suggested to go up from 15k to 25k. Fae suggested up to £40k in 'program and project grants'. Possibly hiring someone to manage the projects and come up with objectives, outcomes, 'kill points' (Fae's term) etc - a project manager for six months to a year, including helping people write proposals. Fae suggests, based on his professional experience, a six month post to set up a proper project and grant management process. Possibly, in future, we would hire a full time permanent project manager.
  • * Helping volunteers more. We'll therefore be hiring a volunteer developmernt and support person. Already decided. Job description to be written in next few months.
  • * "short term projects", eg hiring John Cummings. Has to be done openly if the idea is ours: but can also be done if someone approaches us with a project.
From the 8 September 2012 reports (Bamkin's section):
Gibraltarpedia
I've created an updated copy of an MOU that Chris abnd I discussed. I'd like to get this approved in principle at the board meeting. If we can get any issues highlighted before the meeting then we should be able to solve these quickly. This should be available with board papers. Decision

John Byrne has mentioned that he would like to know more about Gib. We have few secrets so I'd be happy to talk the board through our plans. I guess this might take 20 mins plus questions. Since we spoke, we now have the support of the Catalans as well as the Moroccan contingent.

We have highlighted that there are three UK/GLAM related conferences next spring. This needs to be managed. John C is delaying starting work in Gib in order to help with this at first day of GLAM camp.

Monmouthpedia
As we said this has pretty much stalled and its a joint effort I think. John and I are meeting one of their senior managers on 31st in Monmouth with Steve Virgin and WestonSuperMarePedia interest group. So I may know more. I have warned MCC that they are due to give reports to us and WMF in line with our agreements but we'll see. It seems likely that the QRpedia agreement won't be ready to be both read, approved by the next meeting. Can the board agree a new position? I do not at present have a financial arrangement with Monmouth. I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK. Not sure that board appreciate that Chepstow and Raglan are included in our existing MOU.
Wales

I'm guessing that Robin is reporting through Chris or Jon?
Recall that "Roger has a business relationship with John Cummings and Steve Virgin". Who is Robin?
How is it that Ashley van HaeftEn is *still* allowed anywhere near governance at WMUK?
Hello, John. John, hello. You're the one soul I would come up here to collect myself.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Tippi Hadron » Sun Sep 16, 2012 11:49 pm

DanMurphy wrote:
Moonage Daydream wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.
I assumed from context that he was seeking money for Monmouthpedia work.
Have a look at his latest en-wp contributions.
Here's one of his glamorous mates – a Wikipedian in residence, of course – offering "Wikipedia Editing as a PR Service".
Last edited by Tippi Hadron on Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:04 am, edited 2 times in total.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Sun Sep 16, 2012 11:55 pm

Tippi Hadron wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:
Moonage Daydream wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.
I assumed from context that he was seeking money for Monmouthpedia work.
Have a look at his latest en-wp contributions.
It's pretty funny stuff. A PR outfit basically controls Wikimedia UK and its glorious educational mission, never to be sullied by advertising nor commercial interests of any kind. They're even giving away a free trip to kick-start that old crowdsourcing, encyclopedia-writing magic.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by dogbiscuit » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:01 am

On the mailing list, even Wikipedians are working out that there is something that is iffy about a mate of Wiki UK seeking money from Wiki UK whilst being paid by another organisation.

Leave them to it. If this keeps up, the Charity Commission will be in major back-pedalling from a deafening chorus of "I told you so."
Time for a new signature.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:13 am

Tippi Hadron wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:
Moonage Daydream wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.
I assumed from context that he was seeking money for Monmouthpedia work.
Have a look at his latest en-wp contributions.
Here's one of his glamorous mates – a Wikipedian in residence, of course – offering "Wikipedia Editing as a PR Service".
This is lovely.

Source: http://untrikiwiki.com/dancing-salsa-an ... ctivities/ ((c) Untrikiwiki.com, reproduced here for discussion)
You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:32 am

The Wikipedian in residence who's merrily doing what Mr. Kohs was villified for operates at minimum two wikipedia accounts. His "residence" account and one in his own name he started in 2010. What's interesting about these two accounts is they have fewer than 350 edits combined, nowhere near the 10,000 edits and 8 years claimed in his sales pitch.

Ah, young Master Klein has provided a CV on Wikipedia, including the fact he graduated from a US college in 2011. That puts him at about 23 years old. 23-8=he claims to have been editing Wikipedia since he was 15.
Last edited by DanMurphy on Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:42 am, edited 1 time in total.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:39 am

Tippi Hadron wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:
Moonage Daydream wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:I mean really, Bamkin has a for-profit contract with the government of Gibraltor to do all this, but he's also seeking to pass of some of his expenses associated with executing the paid Wikipedia editing contract to Wikimedia UK (as well it seems as for his paid editing work associated with Monmouth - "I am trying to talk to Fae about John's remuneration from WMUK.") That's good for his profit margin, but not much else.
Wikimedia UK a charity? My foot.
It is difficult to know from those minutes what work Cummings is supposed to be paid for. It may not be Gibraltarpedia related.
I assumed from context that he was seeking money for Monmouthpedia work.
Have a look at his latest en-wp contributions.
Here's one of his glamorous mates – a Wikipedian in residence, of course – offering "Wikipedia Editing as a PR Service".
Right, and Mr Klein's Twitter feed indicates that he socialises with Pigsonthewing aka Andy Mabbett, Sarah Stierch, Andrew Gray (the Wikipedian in Residence at the British Library), and the gentlemen depicted here.

Greg, it seems that as "Kohser noster" you were simply not "of the body". :)

Can we have that "Oh the hypocrisy" byline, pretty please? It's really needed very badly.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by HRIP7 » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:57 am

Jimbo does not mince words:
Gibraltarpedia, Wikimedia UK and concerns about paid editing and conflicts of interest within Wikimedia UK

Jimbo, do you have a view on the developing discussion here? JN466 23:50, 16 September 2012 (UTC)

I'm not aware of the specific facts with enough certainty to be able to comment directly on this case. However, I can make a couple of observations based on general principles.
1. Panyd is, as usual, speaking good sense.
2. It is wildly inappropriate for a board member of a chapter, or anyone else in an official role of any kind in a charity associated with Wikipedia, to take payment from customers in exchange for securing favorable placement on the front page of Wikipedia or anywhere else. This is just one very narrow example of a much broader principle that it's wrong to work in any capacity whatsoever editing content as a paid advocate within Wikipedia. This applies to articles and the front page, but of course I leave open the very valid option of someone with a conflict of interest doing the ethical thing and identifying fully and proposing things to the community.
As I mentioned at the start, I don't know enough of the facts in this particular case to be able to comment specifically. However, if the facts turn out to be as stated, then the honorable thing for anyone with a conflict of interest driving them to act on behalf of a client in the manner I discussed above is resign from the board of Wikimedia UK, or resign from the job with the client. Anything else raises the appearance of impropriety at a minimum.--Jimbo Wales (talk) 00:52, 17 September 2012 (UTC)

Untrikiwiki
And what about this graphic by untrikiwiki, entitled "Wikipedia Editing as a PR Service", apparently produced by Maximilian Klein, a Wikipedian in residence with excellent community connections?

Quote: "A positive Wikipedia article is invaluable SEO: it's almost guaranteed to be a top three Google hit. Surprisingly this benefit of writing for Wikipedia is underutilized, but relates exactly the lack of true expertise in the field. ... WE HAVE THE EXPERTISE NEEDED to navigate the complex maze surrounding 'conflict of interest' editing on Wikipedia. With more than eight years of experience, over 10,000 edits, and countless community connections we offer holistic Wikipedia services. untrikiwiki
I mean, the good chap is even quoting you in his graphic! How is that different from what Gregory Kohs and MyWikiBiz wanted to do openly five or six years ago (and has been doing surreptitiously ever since)? JN466 00:53, 17 September 2012 (UTC)

I was unaware of this case, and haven't had time to look into it. If what you say is accurate, then of course I'm extremely unhappy about it. It's disgusting.--Jimbo Wales (talk) 00:54, 17 September 2012 (UTC)

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Randy from Boise » Mon Sep 17, 2012 1:06 am

thekohser wrote:
Randy from Boise wrote: I suppose the question is whether the name and the company name are "unambiguous." The correct response, even if "unambiguous," is for a block of the name followed by instructions to re-register, not banning. I've seen evidence in Orange Mike's log that he's unilaterally blocked for names roughly comparable to this. To my mind, if the name was User:VictuallersLtd or User:VictuallersConsultants, it'd be blockable, but the Victuallers name is more ambiguous out of context. Sort of an opinion call, I suppose. I could see a proper debate going either way...

RfB
Yes, Randy... they should unblock User:MyWikiBiz (T-C-L), since the name of the PA Entity is "MyWikiBiz.com", not "MyWikiBiz". Please see to it that this happens soon, so that Wikipedia may be improved.

As for your bullcrap apologetics for Orangemike's block list, I see him blocking user accounts for the "spamusernameblock" reason, when it's not at all clear the user name is "unambigously" a company name. Examples:

* Tweedrun
* Vijaytamil1
* Themindsrng
* GPIntelligentC
* Hamidalirealtor

I didn't have to go digging around for those examples. They were all made TODAY by Orangemike.

Just admit that one of Wikipedia's "own" is being protected here out of proportion to what the policies dictate. It's yet another example of leadership by hypocrisy at the Wikimedia Foundation and its various corrupt projects.
1. "MyWikiBiz" uses the word "Biz" and that's gonna be on the other side of the line 10 times out of 10.
2. I'm not apologizing for Orange Mike's blocks. I disagree with them, I point them out as a fact. As you well know, he's a hardliner on the COI question and I'm in favor of "rationalization" of the situation to make paid editing open and subject to supervision and control, rather than under the table.
3. They might as well unblock your main account, since you probably aren't going to use it anyway.

RfB

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Mon Sep 17, 2012 1:09 am

HRIP7 wrote:Jimbo does not mince words:
It is wildly inappropriate for a board member of a chapter, or anyone else in an official role of any kind in a charity associated with Wikipedia, to take payment from customers in exchange for securing favorable placement on the front page of Wikipedia or anywhere else. - Jimbo Wales (talk) 00:54, 17 September 2012 (UTC)
This is the key bit. Good on Jimbo (this point is blindingly obvious to anyone who's worked in a professional environment, but somehow is completely over the heads of most of these folks). Of course, I think Jimbo has precisely zero influence over the asylum anymore. I wonder if the "chapter" juggernaut, which is the real gravy train, can be headed off at this point?

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by thekohser » Mon Sep 17, 2012 1:37 am

Wow, the heat is on. And my name up in lights (again) on Jimbo's talk page for a few days.
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Anroth » Mon Sep 17, 2012 8:25 am

Well we know he doesnt really care about banning people out of process. So maybe he will pick up the banstick. That could be interesting....

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by TungstenCarbide » Mon Sep 17, 2012 9:55 am

DanMurphy wrote:
HRIP7 wrote:Jimbo does not mince words:
It is wildly inappropriate for a board member of a chapter, or anyone else in an official role of any kind in a charity associated with Wikipedia, to take payment from customers in exchange for securing favorable placement on the front page of Wikipedia or anywhere else. - Jimbo Wales (talk) 00:54, 17 September 2012 (UTC)
This is the key bit. Good on Jimbo (this point is blindingly obvious to anyone who's worked in a professional environment, but somehow is completely over the heads of most of these folks). Of course, I think Jimbo has precisely zero influence over the asylum anymore. I wonder if the "chapter" juggernaut, which is the real gravy train, can be headed off at this point?
The "chapter juggernaut" is going to be a source of drama for years to come. Small little cliquish groups of Wikipediots, with enormous fund raising abilities? :popcorn:
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Mon Sep 17, 2012 10:37 am

This guy Mike Peel is a hoot, and explains how many angels can dance on the head of a WMUK pin.
Please note that the minutes of the meeting are still being drafted, and in this case they aren't an accurate record of the meeting yet. We're working on finalising an agreement with Giblartarpedia, after which we will be supporting the project (but it still won't be a WMUK activity; it'll be an activity that WMUK supports). Thanks. Mike Peel (talk) 18:03, 16 September 2012 (UTC)
Here Peel attacks someone seeking information for not being privy to information that the WMUK is concealing, while demonstrating no awareness of what a conflict of interest is (whether because he's actually that stupid or because he's hoping his audience is that stupid, I leave it up to the reader to determine).
Jayen466: What's this "Wikimedia Foundation UK"? Why are you making the assumption that we are planning on setting up an agreement based solely on a single trustee rather than as board consensus? Why are you assuming that Roger is solely working to "promote his client's interests" here? You seem to be making many assumptions here that aren't based on facts. :-( I'm not sure why you think that your comments about the FDC have anything to do with this, so I'm not going to reply to those. Thanks. Mike Peel (talk) 22:59, 16 September 2012 (UTC)
Bamkin arrives to demonstrate his mastery of Wikipedia double-speak.
I've been invited to have a read of this conversation and there are a lot of good points. Some points of clarification may be in order, and I'll address just a couple now. Firstly the Wikipedia article on Gibraltarpedia contains numerous errors and care should be taken in its interpretation. Obviously COI makes it tricky for me to correct those errors. The press releases issued by the project are much more accurate. Nominating and then approving a hook should not be done. It was a mistake on my part. (I will continue to make mistakes, hopefully not this one again.) You will see that I do have COI issues which are all well documented. This is because I stood for election on the basis that I did have commercial interests and the membership supported me. I don't intend to criticise their choice. I negotiated both Monmouthpedia and Gibraltarpedia and these are both based on QRpedia and multi-lingual challenges which were both developed at Derby Museum which was another partnership I negotiated. To paraphrase Carrite, it would appear that we have read the project's mission and we are now gathering external money to deliver it in a variety of countries. Now what would happen if everyone did that?
Today I'm going to the local library and hall to train local people in Gibraltar in how to edit Wikipedia, load pictures and use Open Street Map. Do I need to find a government where the minister's think this is a silly idea, surely not. Victuallers (talk) 06:34, 17 September 2012 (UTC)
Apparently, he believes Wikipedia's missions is to have a paid task force to write promotional pieces about tourism destinations (so long as it all complies with "policy) . He even writes it with a straight face.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by thekohser » Mon Sep 17, 2012 11:03 am

DanMurphy wrote:This guy Mike Peel is a hoot, and explains how many angels can dance on the head of a WMUK pin.
Dan, it is extremely helpful to provide links to these discussions, preferably "permanent" ones. I will be writing an Examiner piece about this today.
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Peter Damian » Mon Sep 17, 2012 11:38 am

thekohser wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:This guy Mike Peel is a hoot, and explains how many angels can dance on the head of a WMUK pin.
Dan, it is extremely helpful to provide links to these discussions, preferably "permanent" ones. I will be writing an Examiner piece about this today.
Here are some useful ones.
Giving a bit of history.
Tyson Lee Holmes was with friends when he read about ‘Monmouthpedia, the World’s First Wikipedia Town.’ His first thought was, wouldn’t it be great if we could do it here, in Gibraltar? So, next day, he took the initiative. He contacted the Minister for Tourism, Neil Costa, and asked for permission to talk to the team behind Monmouthpedia. Tyson’s initiative, in talking to Neil Costa, and instigating an approach on behalf of this British Overseas territory, greatly impressed the Monmouthpedia organisers, Roger Bamkin and John Cummings. They had already been inundated with offers from people looking for their city to be the world’s second Wikipedia town. Offers had come in from the Czech Republic, the USA, Norway and elsewhere. None had such strong political support behind them. Within a few weeks, the Monmouthpedia team was in Gibraltar. They met Tyson and the Gibraltar’s Director of Heritage, Clive Finlayson. Next, they met the Minister of Tourism, Neil Costa. In Tyson’s company, the team toured Gibraltar and experienced its rich cultural heritage first hand. To end the visit, they met with a large group of committed local Wikipedian volunteers and discussed how a project might be taken forward in Gibraltar. They felt that Tyson had all the key ingredients in place, so much so, that some preparatory work has already started, with Tyson creating articles, and volunteer editors already showing interest in starting work.
http://blog.wikimedia.org.uk/tag/gibraltarpedia
Press release from HM gov of Gibraltar
HM GOVERNMENT OF GIBRALTAR, Ministry of Tourism, Public Transport and the Port. Suite 631, Europort, Gibraltar.
http://www.gibraltar.gov.gi/images/stor ... 3-2012.pdf

Concern about Wikipedia not having "Gibraltar’s best interest at heart"
A new way to market the Rock "As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
http://www.chronicle.gi/headlines_details.php?id=25479
Another angle we have not explored yet is Gibraltar's disputed status. Two links about the earlier career of the Minister who negotiated the deal http://www.panorama.gi/archive/011119/updates.htm http://vox.gi/Profile/2054-Neil_Costa_Profile.html, about his anti-Spanish activism. “People, Gibraltar, were being castigated by Spain and I believed that when qualified I could offer legal professional help to fight injustice,” he says. “And I still see that as my role – a duty almost.”

Also the user page http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Juanmatorres75 of the only Gibraltar editor who does not seem to be involved in the project. I suspect he may be among those who does not have "Gibraltar’s best interest at heart", would that explain his absence?
οὐκ ἀγαθὸν πολυκοιρανίη: εἷς κοίρανος ἔστω

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DanMurphy
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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Mon Sep 17, 2012 11:58 am

Peter, I love this:
A new way to market the Rock "As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
They're recruiting partisans and teaching them to edit war. Which is refreshingly honest.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by Anroth » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:19 pm

DanMurphy wrote:Peter, I love this:
A new way to market the Rock "As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
They're recruiting partisans and teaching them to edit war. Which is refreshingly honest.
Thats an amazingly biased interpretation of that comment. I thought you were a professional journalist? It could just as easily be 'Its easy to edit wikipedia and revert vandalism if you see it.'

Although its probably more the first kind than the second, but still.... If you want to grind your axe you need better quotes than that to support it.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by dogbiscuit » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:19 pm

The interesting thing about this is that Jimbo sometimes does do the right thing, even if he is not doing it for the same reasons. He so hates the idea of other people using Wikipedia as a money-earning project that he will have to slap this down, because if he doesn't, all the things he claims are wrong about paid editing are going to happen. What is worse, the WMF sponsored organisations are enabling this activity and providing a screen for doing it.

The only thing surprising is how brazen the Gibraltar project has been. Reminds me of Fae, so busy believing that they are the chosen ones that they forget to consider what their actions look like from elsewhere. Wiki UK is a pretty broken organisation which is not aligned to the aims of Wikipedia.
Time for a new signature.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by dogbiscuit » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:21 pm

Anroth wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:Peter, I love this:
A new way to market the Rock "As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
They're recruiting partisans and teaching them to edit war. Which is refreshingly honest.
Thats an amazingly biased interpretation of that comment. I thought you were a professional journalist? It could just as easily be 'Its easy to edit wikipedia and revert vandalism if you see it.'

Although its probably more the first kind than the second, but still.... If you want to grind your axe you need better quotes than that to support it.
Well, the negative articles being separated out from the untrue suggests that it is possible to write true articles that do not put Gibraltar in a good light and these would be dealt with, together with the context of the organisation, so it is not that unreasonable interpretation.
Time for a new signature.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by DanMurphy » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:24 pm

Anroth wrote:
DanMurphy wrote:Peter, I love this:
A new way to market the Rock "As Wikipedia is written by volunteers, concern was expressed that those who did not have Gibraltar’s best interest at heart may write untrue or negative articles, Professor Finlayson said; “The people from Wikipedia UK have guaranteed to us that this has an element of self-regulation and we want to encourage many local volunteers to keep an eye on what is going on, and if things go on that is nasty, then it is very easy for them to go back to the earlier page in seconds.”
They're recruiting partisans and teaching them to edit war. Which is refreshingly honest.
Thats an amazingly biased interpretation of that comment. I thought you were a professional journalist? It could just as easily be 'Its easy to edit wikipedia and revert vandalism if you see it.'

Although its probably more the first kind than the second, but still.... If you want to grind your axe you need better quotes than that to support it.
Oh grasshopper, I probably know far more about human behavior than you ever will. You "thought" I'm a journalist (whoever the fuck you are?) No I "am" one. Getting a group of amateur Gibraltar enthusiasts together and teaching them how easy it is to revert "nasty" edits is no way to write an encyclopedia. I'll probably write something on the structural problem with all this later.

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Re: Gibraltarpedia - rock solid

Unread post by thekohser » Mon Sep 17, 2012 12:42 pm

And, predictably, the "cover up" process quietly begins.

Dan, could you please provide links for the quotes you copied above? I'm not seeing them on Jimbo's talk page, nor on the Wikimedia UK mailing list.
"...making nonsensical connections and culminating in feigned surprise, since 2006..."

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