A word about David (Steel)

[BigWill]

I'm sure it cannot have escaped the notice of forum regulars that one of our moderators and forum stalwarts, David Steel, has been conspicuous by his absence on the AP boards of late. I am not privy to the reasons behind David's non-appearance, nor do I think it is either any of my business or an appropriate matter for open discussion on here as to the reasons for his absence. Suffice to say that it is my understanding that David is still a full member of the forum and is not prevented in any way from contributing to it. Obviously the reasons for his absence are personal and private and I would appeal to everyone here to respect that and not to speculate on, or debate the reasons for his withdrawal from the AP boards.

What I would like to do though is offer a personal reflection on the man who is, and has been for many years, one of the rocks on which the AP boards were founded.

I make no secret of the fact that David and I were diametrically opposing characters and personalities and we frequently didn't see eye to eye on several issues in the past. That said, I always had a tremendous respect for his knowledge and insight into matters photographic. His depth of understanding of the subject and his photographic credentials were impeccable! His background in IT also stood him in good stead when it came to matters concerning that sphere of activity also. Coupled with this vast field of knowledge was also a willingness and a readiness to share his experience with anyone on the forum who cared to ask it of him and there are many forum members here who will attest to that!

I never had the pleasure of meeting David face to face but again there are those on the forum who have done so at some of the "forum outings" and can vouch for his sense of fun and willingness to "join in" as well as organize such events.

In summary, I'd just like to say that whatever the reasons for David's absence from the boards, it is my sincere wish and hope that although he may have decided to become a "back bencher" as opposed to being "a member of the cabinet", that he will continue to make his invaluable contribution to the AP boards for many years to come. The AP forum and David Steel are inseparable entities and it's future without his input is unthinkable!

BigWill

[Mr_Geoff]

Well said Will.

It was a pleasure to meet David on our Cambridge outing in September 2006, which seems like such a long time ago now.

I hope that he and his family are all well.

[geepee]

Hear Hear. His absence was discussed at the York meeting and we would welcome his contribution again, but take your time David, whatever your situation we are all rooting for you.

[karriman]

Well said Will. When I first joined and asked the "Newbie" question, David was one of the first to give me very good advice and I have since always respected his views, comments.

[Seven]

Aw that was nice Will and I hope David checks in to see what you've written. I will miss him and seems odd not to have a lounge lizard around
I wish you well David

[PaulatUKcamera]

Well said Will.

You have only got to read the past year's posts to realise the width & depth of his photographic knowledge.

David gave me a very warm welcome to this forum and was always willing to share his knowledge whatever the technical query I posed. Like you Will, there was the odd "conflict" in the occasional thread, but can you honestly say that this forum would be as interesting as it is without the disparate view of all of us?

I hope that he will return and contribute once more, when he overcomes whatever "challenge" that has beset his life.

The forum is definitely the poorer for his absence.

Paul

[swanseadave]

I too miss David`s input on these boards.He is a fountain of knowledge,like many others on here,myself not included.
I hope he is well and returns to the fold soon.
Dave

[Barney]

So, is it official, has David flounced?

[PaulatUKcamera]

This post is amended.

In the light of Alex doing the decent thing and withdrawing his post, yours Barney, now just appears to be frivolous.

However taking it in the context of a "snide" reply to Alex's posting I still stand by my original post which was:

That, I think, is not a fitting or proper remark.

Neither is it remotely amusing, so could you delete it please?

And I am, for once, deadly serious.

Paul

[swanseadave]

^^WHS^^
Wash your mouth out,Barney!!

[Barney]

Unless some parties are privvy to the reasons for David's absence, and to my knowledge the mods have indicated that they are as much in the dark as the rest of us, then I stand by a light hearted remark made in the spirit of the lounge.

[Monobod]

David has been conspicuous by his absence recently. I assumed he was taking a longer than usual holiday in Cuba, or somewhere similar. I do hope all is well with him and I look forward to hearing from him again.

He and I had several interesting discussions on colour management and the use of Epson Pro 3800 printers. I really miss his invaluable contributions.

I hope his absence will not be for too long. I agree with you Paul about unwanted remarks. Not at all necessary.

[TH-Photos]

decided to become a "back bencher"

TTBOMK David has never been a 'Bencher'

[frank1]

I was thinking about him t'other and also hoping things are good with him.

[bagpuss]

Awwh, nice sentiment Will.

[Linux_Lady]

I miss stalking him.... he was always very charming and an easy target as he was always around... I hope he comes back soon and wherever he is, I hope he and his family are ok

*sending lots of happy, non-suggestive hugs Daves way *

[img]/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif[/img]

[APchris]

Nice one Will You've put into words what I, and indeed many others, here feel on the subject of Davids continued absence.

He, along with all the other mods, has always been helpful and very patient whenever any of us 'muck up' which is one of the things that makes the AP forum a very welcoming and friendly place to frequent

[willie45]

Just wanted to add my voice to those who wish David well and hope to hear from him soon. He was the first person to respond to my first post and ever since then, I always found his advice and help extremely valuable.

Aside from that I reckon he is an all round good guy.

All best wishes to you, David, and I hope all is well with you and yours

Willie