Talk:Laura Branigan

A slow Edit War is happening

Over, and over again. Seriously, protect the article til the RfC is decided.

• Undo one
• Undo two
• edit to question the previous Rfc "primary sources" note is in question. It is not edit warring. Devilmanozzy (talk) 09:48, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

Currently its on that last edit. Trying to avoid a edit war I'm asking that the article be protected. Devilmanozzy (talk) 01:59, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

The last of those three edits was mine, and I question why you see it as part of an "edit war". The RFC concluded that the 1957 date be included in the article, and mentioned the possibility of including a footnote regarding other claims. The previous wording did not include a correctly-formatted footnote - it added a partial explanation under "references" - and my text and formatting sought to clarify it, and so to better implement the closing argument at the RFC. Of course, I would be happy to discuss the wording further if challenged, but I resent it being termed part of an "edit war". Ghmyrtle (talk) 07:44, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

I can see you are in the very discussion about the Page6 reference. It might be okay as a footnote as for why the 1952 argument has been mounted, but calling it a "primary sources" is incorrect in every way. From WP:PRIMARY "Information in an article must be verifiable in the references cited. In general, article statements should not rely on unclear or inconsistent passages, or on passing comments. Passages open to multiple interpretations should be precisely cited or avoided. A summary of extensive discussion should reflect the conclusions of the source. Drawing conclusions not evident in the reference is original research regardless of the type of source. It is important that references be cited in context and on topic."

So it lacks references. It is perhaps a "secondary source" though. But with the very subject opinion of the piece being a user in the conversation on this talk page also, it might also be a conflict of interest to use it. Devilmanozzy (talk) 08:25, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

The citation is to a claim that primary sources have been found - not that the claim itself is a primary source. Please withdraw your unsubstantiated claims that I have engaged in "edit warring", or that I have any more "conflict of interest" than anyone else who has commented on this page. Ghmyrtle (talk) 09:38, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

I disagree, and that "The citation is to a claim that primary sources have been found - not that the claim itself is a primary source." Explain as I'm not understanding you there. I retract the edit Warring comment, but I believe your edit is misleading. The "conflict of interest" comment is aimed at the factor that the very user that submitted it himself is commenting on the talk page and actively promoting the link. The page6 column lacks references, therefore it simply is not a primary source. Devilmanozzy (talk) 09:48, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

@Devilmanozzy: I can explain this. The claim here is "some primary sources suggest that she may have been born in 1952". The citation to back up the previous claim is that page6 article. (The actual primary sources are the school website etc.) --Lemongirl942 (talk) 10:07, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

Correct. Ghmyrtle (talk) 10:14, 19 April 2016 (UTC)

"Hopefully footnote will remain for at least as long as discussion on talk page". Who would dare to change it? I would very much change it, but as I am a non reliable or trustful person I rather stand beside. Anyone who can give me a good answer how you will handle and solve Billy's birth year 1957? You have said that his birth announce from Patent Trader 1957 is not a proper source. I have asked but still no answer about Billy's US Public Records which says 28 Feb 1957. Are they also wrong and manipulated? If yes, please explain for me how and in what way you consider why Billy's public records are wrong or manipulated. As a Swede I have not much knowledge about US records, but logical it ought to be very difficult to change public records. At last, I suppose a voter ID is something you need to vote in an US election. Just like in Sweden. I have mine voter ID which is personally. If I say that I have Billy's 9 figures voter ID, which also says Feb 28, 1957, will wiki consider such source as proper and reliable? Or is it something that can be changed or manipulated in photoshop, for instance? If yes, why should Billy do such illegal thing? What would the wins be for him? Vote several times in one election? Please, don't make me disappointed and stay silence in such important questions. Or am I not considered as reliable in such questions?--Born53 swe (talk) 21:13, 23 April 2016 (UTC)

Since you are casting mockery at us, both here and elsewhere, I imagine (not going to bother to look) I feel compelled to wonder why you let this one little bit of data consume your life. It is one date and one location for someone who has departed this earth. This does not matter. This is one article out of the 2800 on my watchlist and somewhere in a similar discussion I said I never even liked this artist. (and yes, I am old enough). Anyone who can give me a good answer how you will handle and solve Billy's birth year 1957? If you think any of us is lying awake at night fretting over this, well hahaha back at you; my solution is just delete whatever does not agree. These details (parents, graduation, brother, early life) were only added to build the basis for the earlier birth year of 1952. Billy is not even needed to be mentioned in the article; he has no individual notability whatsoever. None of her personal biographical details are even required or even desired. This is not a fan site. So, talk about us all you like, I am anonymous and ducky, you would be surprised! Actually, I thought you said you were going away: [1] Fylbecatulous talk 21:49, 23 April 2016 (UTC)

"The slow edit war" is without me, so this is something you must sort out by yourself. You remember when I wrote about that lady who met Laura in Atlantic Records office in New York early 80's, and they became real good friends? She is very much involved in my research, and she is also knowing what is happening here at wiki. After a conversation yesterday she told me to ignore wiki, they don't know the truth as we do (incl Billy Branigan, Laura's little brother) so stop acting against them.

She is reading and also laughing at you, how you are playing with words without any kind of substance. She is also looking forward to see how you will solve Billy's birth year from 1957 to something unknown. You know, she knows Billy as well. You are really playing with the truth about 1957. And your reputation as well as a trustful wiki. You can't change Laura's birth year any longer. As Devilmanozzy wrote to me "1957 stays". And you can't change Billy's. Remember US Public Records "Billy Branigan 28 Feb 1957". So his 1957 stays! Good luck in your efforts to solve this delicate problem you got when you decided I was unreliable and not trustful in my sources. Which many came from just people who knew Laura. Just a small tiny question, how old are you so called "wikiexperts"? I am 1953 and my sources are born 1952. The same year Laura Branigan entered the world. So how old are you, wikisiers?--Born53 swe (talk) 08:13, 23 April 2016 (UTC)

How do we know Laura or her brother weren't adopted? Stranger things have happened. Where's the birth certificate? Plinuckment (talk) 09:31, 24 April 2016 (UTC)

I wish her brother would address this on his facebook. Claims here about what could be cause of original research and that original research will never trump newspapers; but the family may be able to clear this up if they know of the debate. Like said, there are many reasons why the original research doesn't work, one being that it goes against newspaper articles and such. That is why when I saw this reference the other day, I was so happy about it. I want the date correct based on proper references. There is at this point far more proof that she was in 1954/or 1955 than 1952 since all research is from questionable sources. History overall has 1957 as her birthdate, and those in the 1952 camp need a strong reference like a relative actually addressing it. Sadly, the clock is ticking on this issue as we are all getting older. A entertainment piece in a mag interviewing her brother would so blow all the newspaper articles out of the water if he addressed this issue. Ultimately, what folks arguing on here fail to realize is that wikipedia isn't the place to prove or disprove a date/place. Wikipedia is a place to build properly referenced articles on a subject. Billy's birthday doesn't matter as there isn't a true source for it, nor does it even prove or disprove her birthday. There isn't a strong case for the 1952 date, and it lacks proper sources to even be considered.

As for the pro-1952 camp attacking folks in the 1957 camp, that doesn't prove anyone anymore right. It only proves that folks in the 1952 don't have anything else to add to the conversation currently. Remaining open minded to the research presented is the key to resolving this. Devilmanozzy (talk) 21:29, 24 April 2016 (UTC)

My last statement! Yes, I am a pro-52 and knows the right things about Laura, but my FB-friends (Laura's former friend from Atlantic Records and Laura's former classmate from BHHS, class of 1970) has told me stop arguing with you. They have both read the wiki and this "Talks" on my request. They feels both very sad that you were allowed to destroy my wiki and also Laura's legacy. But there are no reasons to have more knifes in my back from contributors who doesn't read or understand sources, and therefore "we 3" will let you believe Laura was born in 1957. Also, they are both very impressed of my research, especially from Laura's time at high school. With both pictures from the yearbook "The Arch" and all articles mostly from The Patent Trader, the local paper in Armonk at that time. And also my findings that showed Branigan's lived in Brooklyn, later Long Island and last in Armonk. Branigans never lived in Brewster. But we 3 are out from this wiki, and let you play with your words and your "sources". I just wanted to make a last statement from us 3 who knows the truth. And Billy, not to forgive. So go ahead with your so called truth. Oh, last thing....the separation which someone wrote about earlier. None of them has ever heard of it, and they would like to see where it came from. A reliable and trustful source is at least that you can show them, don't you think. And gossips from People magazine is nothing you shall care about. Forget People, it is just gossip!--Born53 swe (talk) 09:09, 27 April 2016 (UTC)

I am sorry you have decided not to present the published sources here, as it would be most helpful, Born 53 swe. Please remember that WP does not, cannot, and will never be able to determine truth. All WP does is reword and summarize what is in the published sources. This is done here by giving the very-widely-reported 1957 date, with a note sharing the concerns from a small number of sources.Shajure (talk) 17:30, 3 May 2016 (UTC)

Shajure..thanks for kind words. If you like you can (and others) watch and read my research of Laura. I have lately added about her time in Meadow, the group she was a member in 1972-73. There is also Chris van Cleave's story how it all started in 1972, when he and Walker Daniels found Laura during her rehearsal of Beggars Opera. Walker Daniels was a teacher at the academy where Laura studied. Sadly Laura never spoke about Meadow. One reason could be that her new timeline and biography didn't involved things from her early 70's. It wouldn't suit the "Project 1957" which was established to build up her new timeline and biography. This was made by creators from Atlantic Records, who had people with that skill and knowledge.

*1. - My research Laura Branigan 1952-2004. Everything you need to know about Laura included with sources. https://se.pinterest.com/born53/
*2. - Laura Branigan 1952-2004 at famous British Library http://explore.bl.uk/primo_library/libweb/action/search.do?fn=search&vl(freeText0)=Branigan%2c+Laura%2c+1952-2004&tab=local_tab&mode=Basic&scp.scps=scope%3a(BLCONTENT)&vid=BLVU1&vl(1423900464UI1)=all_items&vl(488279563UI0)=creator
*3. - Laura Branigan 1952-2004 at House of Names https://www.houseofnames.com/branigan-family-crest
*4. - Laura Branigan 1952-2004 at Library of Congress http://id.loc.gov/authorities/names/n91051432.html Laura Branigan 1952-2004
*5. - Chris van Cleave, former friend and member of Meadow. Read his story how he and Walker Daniels discovered Laura in 1972 at the American Academy in New York. http://www.chrisvancleavemusic.com/feature/home.html
van Cleave story is added in my research under "Meadow". Hope you'll enjoy it!--Born53 swe (talk) 15:51, 18 May 2016 (UTC)

1. I see the same stuff there. You should get it organized to cite, instead of saying "look at this". I see newspapers, You need to link to them instead. Many newspapers are online thanks to google. find the papers on a source thats not edited by yourself as proof.

2. British Library doesn't give sources and allows users to edit entries, pretty much making it User-generated content.

3. It never explains where it got the birthdate. I see references at the bottom of the page, but none seem to address Laura directly. They assume her birthdate is 1952, which may have been because of Wikipedia again.

4. Noting WP:CIRCULAR.

Sources "found: Wikipedia, September 8, 2015 (Laura Branigan; Laura Ann Branigan; born July 3, 1952, Brewster, New York; died August 26, 2004, East Quogue, New York; American singer, songwriter, and actress)"

Change Notes "1991-05-23: new, 2015-09-09: revised"

They changed the information last year to match Wikipedia. Stunning, simply stunning. Not blaming you Born53 Swe, that "should" have been a good source. I can't believe that the Library of Congress sourced Wikipedia.

5. Read over that a few times, it doesn't actually give her age. She could have actually been that young... noting acts like The Jackson 5 which featured among members a 6 year old Michael Jackson. So while it is questionable, no sources flat out claimed she was older when with them. Devilmanozzy (talk) 06:25, 19 May 2016 (UTC)

I would have thought that the Library of Congress explicitly using Wikipedia as a source is an issue that needs to be considered at WP:RS/N (if it hasn't been already). Ghmyrtle (talk) 09:34, 19 May 2016 (UTC)

I'll leave the experts to fight that out. It isn't my issue. It is a issue that a white knight can address if he/she wants. But, I can read, they have referenced Wikipedia as a source that could have affected the choice of birthdate in the data. Devilmanozzy (talk) 19:33, 19 May 2016 (UTC)

I raised it at WP:RS/N, and got a couple of responses. I suggest we add in to the current footnote a reference to the LOC, not in order to give the contested 1952 date any additional credibility but simply to forestall arguments along the lines of "the LoC is a RS and says 1952 so it must be right." Ghmyrtle (talk) 12:51, 20 May 2016 (UTC)

Sorry, forget everything about me and my worthless sources. I'll give up now (again). I thought I would have some help from you Devilmanozzy by giving you all my options of finding news about Laura. But obviously you didn't care about it.

First you said, it is not your business finding and looking after sources, then when I gave you HOW to find it. But nada! Have you read Mr van Cleaves whole story when he met Laura, how Meadow were split up and how he tried in the 70s to tell Laura being a part of Jesus Christ Superstar? If Laura was 15 in 1972, she wouldn't even have met van Cleave, though you must be at least 18y to get your acceptance. And Walker Daniels wife Sharon Storm would have met Laura either. (Which she did!) But OK, you win again. As you understand I will contact British Library and LoC and tell them how badly they work with finding reliable sources. And could someone please delete my research, I am not interested of having it here, though it wasn't worth anything, even if Shajure said it would be a good thing.--Born53 swe (talk) 14:32, 19 May 2016 (UTC)

I don't agree with the birthdate. So yeah, I will point out that the links are incorrect. The burden of proof is on your side still. I have told you time and time again how to actually have proper references, yet you never bother understanding, only disagreeing. You seem to think this is a cred/authority issue. Simply put, I don't care who you or anyone is. What I care about is not being given misleading or misguided information created because of a form of speculation or theory. I believe that you believe that date is right. The problem is that sources/references need to be able to be based on unbiased, none position source. The true answer was and still lies with your collection of newspapers. You need to get the newspaper name, date of publication and explain why it matters in regards to her birthdate and birthplace. I don't know how to explain it more clearly to you. Get off your high horse and listen. In the real world, people disagree about a number of things but it is proper sources that wins at the end of the day. The point of sources/references is to prove that a unbias perspective/record agree with the position presented without altering it or somehow manipulating it. Devilmanozzy (talk) 19:26, 19 May 2016 (UTC)

Do you know one thing...you are soooo full of crap and shit that you should think about how to behave. I don't care about you for a single Swedish dime. You are the most stupid, silly person in this fucking page.

Question...Are former classmates to Laura Branigan reliable and proper sources? Or do you want Laura to stand beside them wishing you a happy holiday? The best thing you can do is...log out and never come back here again. Do you know what I am doing on your fucking sources...shitting!! Have you (and all others) read Chris van Cleaves story about Meadow and Laura? If not...read here http://www.chrisvancleavemusic.com/feature/home.html Meadow Story It is a very well document of the rise and fall of Meadow. Walker Daniels, a teacher from the academy, etc. And why haven't you and others already read it. But you are so fucking stupid that you CAN'T read and make conclusions of what you read. Poor little fellow! My source is a very well known author from Manhattan. She has written several books, and yes, she remembers Laura wery well. But maybe she is a fake as my other friend who also were classmate with Laura Branigan, born 1952. I don't know how to explain so you understand....Laura Branigan WAS born July 3, 1952 in Mount Kisco, Westchester County, New York. She attended high school 1966-70, The american academy in New York between 1970-72, she toured with Cohen in Europe 1976, she married Larry Kruteck 1978, etc. You can take 1957, Brewster, what ever you want and stick them up in your brown eye. AND, not to forget..sources you are referring to says clearly that Laura WASN'T born 1957. Have you even read all you are screaming about? Advice, read and you will see, damn it, she was born 1952. Read http://www.chrisvancleavemusic.com/feature/home.html , https://www.aada.edu/alumni/notable-alumni#decade:1960_1970/orderby:last_name/display:panel , http://chappaqua.advantage-preservation.com/Viewer/?fn=patent_trader_usa_new_york_mount_kisco_19700620_english_21 , her graduation from high school. Start reading and let you be convince that you are so fucking wrong. THANK YOU! And don't go like other cowards to daddy wiki and have me banned. Be a man!!--Born53 swe (talk) 20:18, 22 May 2016 (UTC)

The article states that she attended Byram Hills High School in 1966-1970. Most students in the U.S. graduate high school at age 18. That suggests the 1952 date of birth is most probable, and 1957 is highly improbable. While it may be common for people in the entertainment industry person to shave a few years off their age, once a person is deceased, an encyclopedia should provide the true date of birth in the main article, rather than in a footnote. If the 1952 date of birth cannot be supported by reliable sources, then it would be preferable to put "unknown", "redacted" or "in the 1950s" rather than perpetuating a falsehood (the 1957 date of birth.)Tetsuo (talk) 01:26, 5 July 2016 (UTC)

"be supported by reliable sources" - we have a date supported by broad WP:RS, and a footnote for the date given in a smaller number of other key sources. Please see the WP:RFC if you would like to reach a broader wp:consensus. WP cannot, and will never be able to, determine truth or falsehood. It can only paraphrase information published elsewhere. This matter is what is called "beating a dead horse". Going out and changing the "minds" of the press, perhaps by publishing a widely-accepted biographical book, might be a good step. Arguing with WP editors about what the press should do is fruitless endeavor.Shajure (talk) 20:22, 5 July 2016 (UTC)

Correct. Please read Talk:Laura Branigan/Archive 2. Unless you have a new reference that is reliable source, there isn't much that can be done. The last RfC was done in March and then was denied a overturn a month later. It's only been four months. Devilmanozzy (talk) 20:43, 5 July 2016 (UTC)

FYI about Laura Branigan. Requests has been sent out to major US- and UK papers about rewriting Laura's obits. Also, I have been approved as a Facebook member in an exclusive group "only for Armonkers". I was asked to write a story about Laura and her 64th birthday (born 1952) which was published in Armonk Daily News. I had a lot of kind words and also credits from Laura's former classmates and people who knew Laura and her family, that I was so accurate, trustful and reliable in my story. Digitized old papers, pictures, etc, which I had sent to the editor were all double checked by the editor and approved as OK when I had "Let's go, write". The very strange thing in this history is, the sources I have used here which has been disqualified as not reliable or proper and therefore deleted, are exactly the same I sent to the editor. So that gave me a bitter taste about wikis experts who deleted my work, but was later welcomed by people in Armonk who really knew Laura and also other readers as 100% reliable and proper. Many were excited how I had managed to find all those notices which they remember so well. The same notice which was deleted by wikis. Therefore, when my true story about Laura (born 1952 in Mount Kisco) will be published and also come into lights it will not be for wikis knowledge. In your world Laura Branigan was born 1957 in Brewster. Yours so called "professional biography" over Laura is something Armonkers are laughing at. Btw, did you know Brewster wasn't Atlantic Rec first choice as Laura's new town, it was Pound Ridge. The reason was that Pound Ridge sounded more classic than Brewster. In my opinion Pound Ridge is better than Brewster. But sadly, maybe Brewster won the lottery? Of course there will be wiki people who will laugh at me while reading this. That is OK for me, though I know the truth which wiki don't.--Born53 swe (talk) 21:32, 7 August 2016 (UTC)

I would point toward wp:Pillars as a good read. I don't think the point of WP is clear, based on these continued posts about "knowing" and "truth". WP cannot, has not, and will not be able to determine truth or falsehood. It can only summarize, as it has here, the contents of the published sources. Here, we have many generally reliable sources using the (it appears erroneous) date. Even if every single interested editor were to suddenly agree that the the published sources were, in fact, wrong, it would not matter: WP contains the footnote that a minority of the wp:RS give other dates, and that individuals with personal knowledge (primary sources) give other dates. This is in keeping with the purpose of WP: to summarize in editors own words the content of the generally reliable sources. I hope this helps in some way.Shajure (talk) 02:53, 8 August 2016 (UTC)

In the vague hope that this won't be taken the wrong way, an example. I have personally been present when 2 events took place that were subsequently covered by the press. Neither event was accurately presented. Yet the news bodies that published the accounts were generally reliable publishers of news. This is reality. Everyone lives in the same world, and we know (hopefully we all know) that no source is going to get everything right. In some cases NONE of them will get it even CLOSE to right. And in those cases, it is the job of the millions of web sites that are not WP to post the truth (hopefully). And WP will post a summary of what the WP:RS contain. *possibly* with a footnote as was added here.Shajure (talk) 02:53, 8 August 2016 (UTC)

This article says that her brother was also born in 1957. I would think unless his mother was able to gestate two babies and have one born in February and one born in July of the same year, this is impossible that they can both be born in 1957. Perhaps an editor can find supporting documentation re: her brother's BD? 2601:241:8102:221C:2DA1:6BD6:5697:3EBF (talk) 00:07, 19 October 2016 (UTC)

And - why wouldn't it be done like this? This recognizes there's at least a dispute. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_Lance 2601:241:8102:221C:2DA1:6BD6:5697:3EBF (talk) 12:44, 19 October 2016 (UTC)

DOB again

I grew up with Laura Branigan in Armonk, NY. We were in the same classes in elementary school (SS John & Mary) and in high school (Byram Hills). We were born in 1952. We graduated high school in 1970. If fans simply checked her home town records and her school records, they would know she was born in 1952 and was raised in Armonk, NY. The 1957 birth year was used for her career. Lots of celebrities have said they were younger for their careers. But I would think biographers would prefer to stipulate the truth. Maybe it doesn't matter. Personally, I don't really care. I'm just saying 1957 is incorrect. It's simply ignorance of the facts. Why those who insist it's true do not do their research is beyond me. Oh well. smh — Preceding unsigned comment added by Truth1952 (talk • contribs) 23:56, 26 August 2016 (UTC)

Again, Wikipedia can only summarize what is given by sources. Newspapers disagree with you. Lots of newspapers. Truth has to be proven from references. See the rest of this talk page and the two Archives. Unless you have something new to add to this, we have spun these wheels already. Devilmanozzy (talk) 10:21, 27 August 2016 (UTC)

I would point toward wp:Pillars as a good read. I don't think the point of WP is clear, based on these continued posts about "knowing" and "truth". WP cannot, has not, and will not be able to determine truth or falsehood. It can only summarize, as it has here, the contents of the published sources. Here, we have many generally reliable sources using the (it appears erroneous) date. Even if every single interested editor were to suddenly agree that the the published sources were, in fact, wrong, it would not matter: WP contains the footnote that a minority of the wp:RS give other dates, and that individuals with personal knowledge (primary sources) give other dates. This is in keeping with the purpose of WP: to summarize in editors own words the content of the generally reliable sources.Shajure (talk) 00:17, 29 August 2016 (UTC)

I just want you to see some pictures I had from people in Armonk, who were classmates with Laura at SS John and Mary school in Chappaqua. Laura Branigan picture from Armonk 1958. She is 6 years old. Next is Laura and best friend Geri. From Armonk about 1963-64 Laura and Geri in Armonk about 1963-64. Next is from 1962 and SS John & Mary 5th grade Laura 1962, SS John & Mary school 5th grade, Chappaqua I have much, much more in my Laura collection. I will not show them though this pictures will probably be considered as fakes and fabricated in photoshop. But I think or know the nickname Truth1952 can verify them, though she grew up with Laura. Wiki experts, have you solved the problem with Billy's birth year? In Laura's biography it is said she was child 4th of 5. If you continue to give Billy birth year 1957, then Laura is younger than Billy. Isn't it easier to admit you are wrong and make the changes so it looks trustful in your "professional" wiki. Wiki has now the fenomen of 2 siblings born the same year of 1957. It looks crazy and ridiculous. You are supposed to be the elite of all contributors in this subject, but you can't read, understand and definitely you are not able to think logical and draw conclusions. To 2Truth1952, I understand you didn't came back and tried to defend yourself against Laura's so called experts. I am sure you know who I am after my visit in your Facebook group. If you like, please contact me at my Facebook, maybe we can work out something together to end this stupid game from those pro1957.--Born53 swe (talk) 12:08, 6 September 2016 (UTC)

I would point toward wp:Pillars as a good read. I don't think the point of WP is clear, based on these continued posts about "knowing" and "truth". WP cannot, has not, and will not be able to determine truth or falsehood. It can only summarize, as it has here, the contents of the published sources. Here, we have many generally reliable sources using the (it appears erroneous) date. Even if every single interested editor were to suddenly agree that the the published sources were, in fact, wrong, it would not matter: WP contains the footnote that a minority of the wp:RS give other dates, and that individuals with personal knowledge (primary sources) give other dates. This is in keeping with the purpose of WP: to summarize in editors own words the content of the generally reliable sources.Shajure (talk) 02:15, 7 September 2016 (UTC)

And I would point out again and also I demand an answer. I don't care about Laura's birth year, but Which year was Billy Branigan born? Was it 1957 as his birth announce says from 1957, or when was it? The answer is also the indication about Laura. And if Laura was born 1957, when did she attend high school? I have many emails from different people, but this came from Antoinette Morales, Town clerk in Mount Kisco. She wrote

"Sir, We have no knowledge of which newspaper a birth announcement would have appeared in 1952. The birth record is the ultimate record of proof but you are not interested in the birth record nor are you eligible to request one. The only other suggestion I have to make your case is that in Wikipedia, it says she attended Byram Lake High School from 1966-1970. If she were born in 1957, then she would have been 9 years of age in high school. Typically, a first year high school student is anywhere from 13 to 14 years of age which supports the birth year being 1952. I hope this helps. Good luck, Antoinette Morales, Staff Assistant Finance, Deputy Registrar, Mount Kisco" I answered her "It is with sadness I'll let you know it is not enough. You see, we are many who has been in the same direction to have wikipedia to read, think and draw conclusions of the subject. I had an email from wikipedia's Nigel P. yesterday which said "it is nothing they will take note of that Laura and Billy Branigan has the same birth year, 1957. It is still all information from the press release written by Laura's management in August 2004 which is the only truth". So if I understand Nigel P correct, not even a birth record would help, though it is still Kathy Golik's press release from August 2004 which is ruling everything. And that means it is only Kathy Golik who can change Laura's birth year and birthplace? And she stated August 15 that Laura was born 1957 in Brewster! --Born53 swe (talk) 14:57, 7 September 2016 (UTC)

wp:Pillars - "have wikipedia to read, think and draw conclusions" - WP does not think, read, or draw conclusions. The published wp:rs do that. WP editors ONLY reword (thus: editors, not authors) that content in their own words. Not their thoughts. Not their conclusions. I'll continue to reply to each of these with key pointers, so that editors will not be confused by this continuing wp:POV push. It does not matter what I/we/you/they think, feel, know, believe, or conclude. It matters only what is in the published, wp:RS.Shajure (talk) 16:58, 7 September 2016 (UTC)

also wp:tldr (edit: Wikipedia:Too long; didn't read. All the chatter among wp:primary sources is interesting but has nothing to do with WP articles. Please remain focused on the content of the wp:RS, and how it should be presented in the article. For all those other things, I would point to the other thousands or millions of web sites as possible publication sites.Shajure (talk) 17:06, 7 September 2016 (UTC)

For God sake, seek help, you need it!--Born53 swe (talk) 12:08, 8 September 2016 (UTC)

Suggest reading wp:NPA, wp:pillarsShajure (talk) 15:18, 8 September 2016 (UTC)

Laura Branigan was born July 3, 1952. SSN:093-98-XXXX.--Born53 swe (talk) 17:59, 30 September 2016 (UTC)

I continue to agree wholeheartedly. Sadly, most of the wp:RS do not, and thus the article reflects the 1957 date most often given there, with a note about the differing wp:RS and primary sources.Shajure (talk) 00:18, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

For those who are still interested, Born53 swe has posted Laura Branigan's Social Security application on his web site: https://se.pinterest.com/pin/204913851775644779/
Yeah, I know "Wikipedia cannot accept scans on fan sites as we have no way of verifying the authenticity of such uploads". Anyway, the scan does indicate a birthdate of 3rd July 1952 and also gives her birthplace as Manhattan, NYC (not Brewster, NY). I've had a look at the Manhattan Birth Index for 1952, and there is a record of a "BRANIGAN, Female" being born there on that date. No first name listed, unfortunately. Anyway, it's an interesting piece of the puzzle. Muzilon (talk) 07:13, 3 October 2016 (UTC)

There really isn't any "puzzle" - except the question of how Wikipedia should set out biographical information when there is substantial evidence (and there is no doubt that there is substantial evidence) that the details reported in normally reliable sources are, for whatever reason, wrong. Ghmyrtle (talk) 08:39, 3 October 2016 (UTC)

That isn't a puzzle at all, it is covered thoroughly in the WP guidance documents. WP cannot, never has, never will be able to determine truth. Thus, we are called "editors" not "authors"... we rewrite in our own words, the published data that meets wp:RS, and other guidance. That is what WP is for. There are thousands, hundreds of thousands, and millions of other pages on the web that are for other purposes. I observe that WP is about number 6 most-visited site on the web. None of the encyclopedic sites that pursue truth are even close. The evidence is set out in the article. The readers can draw their own conclusions. Idly: the current President of the US has had his birth certificate published, verified by many people and organizations, and there is *still* a huge wrangle about the basic facts.Shajure (talk) 21:56, 4 October 2016 (UTC)

To the OP of this section - the best course of action at this point, based on what these editors are saying, is for you to get a local newspaper or two, a daily newspaper and or reputable monthly magazine, to do a story on Branigan, and include the debate about her DOB as part of the article. 2601:241:8102:221C:2DA1:6BD6:5697:3EBF (talk) 12:47, 19 October 2016 (UTC)

Heh heh, it looks like people on Twitter are questioning the authenticity of that Social Security form already. Surely some enterprising journalist could get a court order to obtain her NY birth/death certificate? Muzilon (talk) 04:16, 27 October 2016 (UTC)

Citation to a random-seeming fan account

"Laura grew up and lived in Armonk, New York" is cited to https://instagy.com/media/1054670278279320502 - is a nice old picture and I have no doubt of it's authenticity or correctness of text, but I can't see how it meets wp:RS. I see other sources saying she grew up in Brewster, about 23 miles away. I don't know that this matters. The next source , 2010 Armonk school publication, seems to support Armonk, so I don't think we need an CN flag. I propose to just kill the instagram link.Shajure (talk) 17:26, 7 September 2016 (UTC)

Show me ALL reliable sources that shows Laura grew up in Brewster. And then we can compare what my friends in Armonk says about your sources. Ans also my contacts in Brewster. I said it before, and I do it again..Seek help. You are completely insane with your bullshit. The best you can do, log out and never come back. This is from you Latest revision as of 20:19, 7 September 2016 (edit) (undo) (thank)

Shajure "Growing up in Armonk, New York, http://instagy.com/media/1054670278279320502%7Ctitle=@laura_branigan_forever (Laura Branigan) Instagram photo 19/08/2015 • Instagy|work=Instagy|accessdate=24 August 2015}} Branigan attended Byram Hills High School in 1966-1970". If Laura was born 1957, why the hell are you not changing her years at Byram Hills High School. You agree with 1966-1970 which gives a birth of 1952. Which years did Laura attend high school? I suppose you know it? But you are like a devil as fast you see 1952. This is what I mean. You don't understand what you are reading and that's why you can't understand. Can you use your fucking brain and read the whole biography. It looks ridiculous when you are mixing her timeline from 1952 to 1957. Do you understand? No you don't. I feel sorry for you. How many other sites have you destroyed? Poor wikipedia who has idiots like you. Seek help!--Born53 swe (talk) 12:25, 8 September 2016 (UTC)

Suggested reading wp:NPA, wp:pillars. Let the users draw their own conclusions. If they are interested, the data form the wp:RS is in the article, which is quite "undestroyed". Your behaviour is unacceptable. Stop now.Shajure (talk) 15:15, 8 September 2016 (UTC)

There being no objection that I can understand, I have removed the instagram as a source. I see no need to change the content or add a CN... it seems reasonably supported by her HS reference. Any objections to leaving the Armonk-grow-up, please be prepared for the verbal attack by a pack of ravening chihuahuas and try not to take it personally.Shajure (talk) 23:31, 10 September 2016 (UTC)

Concerns about the editors, discussion of reversion to April 2016

I must say I am thinking of edit Laura's whole wiki as it was April 2016, before DevilManozzy and all others decided you knew everything about Laura. I was just a liar and fabricated my research. This time I have the final piece in my Laura collection, her SSN-card with number 093-78-xxxx. Laura has filled in 7-3-1952, birthplace - Manhattan, New York. Phone 273-3540 and her signature. Laura had to make a SSN application when she began at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in September 1970. This information was sent to me from my contact in New York, CH. It took a long time, but at last I have it. Laura's perfect wiki at Last.FM has been edited with this new information. (I am the author) Also some other pages has been updated with New York as birthplace. (Where the hell did you get Brewster from?) Also different papers has this news. This is so new that it will take some time to let it grew in my collection. It is difficult to decide what to do. Shall I let you know, or not? If yes, you need to apologize for your very bad behavior against me, but I also know you would never do it. So, no, I will not let you take part of my treasure. So let it be. I don't care. Btw, I emailed wiki support team yesterday. They haven't answered me though in their eyes I am wrong and wiki right. Poor idiots, wonder if they can read and understand English. Or is it as bad as here, wiki experts. You know, I am the expert, you are just nothing in my eyes. The best you can do is log out and never come back again. You are just nothing!--Born53 swe (talk) 10:01, 1 October 2016 (UTC)

I don't think anyone has said that your information is "wrong", or that you are "wrong" - except in your continuing and perplexing inability to understand what Wikipedia is, and how it works. The article sets out, in accordance with policy, what reliable published sources say about her, with a footnote explaining that some other information suggests differently. The readers can make up their own mind. That is as far as we can and should go. Ghmyrtle (talk) 11:40, 1 October 2016 (UTC)

Ghmyrtle, the guy is routinely bugging me on my talk page here at wikipedia, as if I am the issue. He blames users, instead of focusing on what has been said and suggestions given by others. He keeps on pushing he is "right" about this issue and that we need to believe him. It's a weird obsession he has with this topic that is quite frankly unhealthy. Devilmanozzy (talk) 10:42, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

@Devilmanozzy: It should, to be fair, be pointed out that you represent one side in this long-going "conflict", and he represents the other side in it, so you're not a neutral observer. Judging by all available evidence (check older discussions here) Born53 swe is most probably right about Laura Branigan having been born in 1952, not 1957, he just hasn't been able to present 3rd party sources for it. Not yet, at least. - Tom | Thomas.W ^talk 11:31, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

@Thomas W... I am a bit amazed at your focus on Dman, as you have way too much experience in WP to do that: Here in WP, we focus on content, not editors. "the other side" to which you refer is the result of a formal RFC. The wording from that is in the article. The content of the sources is there in the article. Interested readers are readily able to review the conflicting data about the date of birth and should, and I should think, be able to "see through" the perhaps-promotional birth-date/age given in the press in the amazingly-unlikely event that anyone will care. We do have sources, in the article, that point to a "correct" birth date. But there is a continuous PoV push, involving much screaming of "Poor idiots, wonder if they can read and understand English. Or is it as bad as here, wiki experts. You know, I am the expert, you are just nothing in my eyes. The best you can do is log out and never come back again. You are just nothing!" and such, along with removal of the RFC wording, removal of sources, adding of personal-collection images and personally-written captions as new sources. One interested editor has pursued getting mainstream press to cover the date... but the press has so far declined.Shajure (talk) 15:26, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

@Shajure: I suggest you read through all old discussions here before accusing me of anything. I'm not talking about the result of the RfC (which I'm very well aware of) when referring to "the other side", I'm talking about the partisan editing that has been going on here for many years, that is since very long before the RfC, trying to keep 1957 in the article at all cost, and systematically removing both every mention of any other year and every mention of the other official website (there are two equally official websites, but until the RfC only one was mentioned, and every attempt to add the other one was quickly reverted). - Tom | Thomas.W ^talk 15:41, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

I should not have responded, I was simply shocked. "accusing me of anything"... On review I can see how that might seem to be the case, but I still see no value in either DMan's response nor yours (and certainly not mine to yours), nor most of the chatter through the too-painful-to-read-all-the-screaming history of this wrangle. The amount of time wasted on this trivial point about the promo biography of a dead (though quite talented) singer is large. At one point the article referred to Laura B. as a one-hit-wonder which really offended me, though I did find one fool in the press that used the term. I killed it, source notwithstanding, as it seemed clearly to be just nastiness. I keep dropping this article from my watch list as it is such a trivial piece, but it is like a train wreck that I just can't stop checking up on. In any event, apologies for any offense.Shajure (talk) 16:04, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

I wish a wikipedia admin would check up on this talk page every so often. I think it is safe to say that this is not going to stop anytime soon, and with a user picking on me for bringing to light the lack of sound practices on research, it has pretty much set this conversation to total nuke again. The articles rocky history should have placed it on a regular watch by this point. Devilmanozzy (talk) 19:21, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

It is on a regular watch: 99 editors have the article on their watchlist, and 24 of them visited recent edits. You just have to accept that not all edits go your way. - Tom | Thomas.W ^talk 19:28, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

And for the OP in this section... please review wp:pillars, wp:no personal attacks. This behaviour is unacceptable.Shajure (talk) 15:26, 2 October 2016 (UTC)

My only contribution and probably the last as well. I know many dislikes (hates) me and my way how to express myself in Laura's wiki. So, therefore I have decided as following. I hereby apologize my language in discussions of Laura's birth informations. I am an old from from Sweden and straight on in my language. So from now you will probably not hear from me again, and yes, I have Laura's private signed SSN-application from September 1970. She needed it when she began at the drama school, New York. It was sent from my New York genealogist and contact as I mentioned early this year. It took time, but now my research and journey with Laura's real biography and timeline is over. Goodbye from StigP in Sweden also known as--Born53 swe (talk) 10:31, 4 October 2016 (UTC)

I'm sorry but I need to add a personal thought. God damn it, how wonderful it is to have Laura's handwritten SSN application. Born 1952 and with her own signature. Who beats that?--Born53 swe (talk) 15:26, 5 October 2016 (UTC)

This is only information for someone who might be interested. Find a Grave, one of the external references has recognized Laura's birth to 1952 and birthplace Mount Kisco. Find a Grave, Laura Branigan born July 3, 1952 in Mount Kisco. I don't know if this reference should be deleted though wiki stands for 1957 and Brewster. But that's up to wiki, not me!

User-generated content. We already went down this road. No, simply no. Devilmanozzy (talk) 22:48, 8 October 2016 (UTC)

And this is why people run screaming as if they are on fire from this site, rather than edit Wikipedia. Even in the face of supporting documentation. 2601:241:8102:221C:2DA1:6BD6:5697:3EBF (talk) 00:10, 19 October 2016 (UTC)

My back is full of scares after knifes that wiki contributors has thrown at me last 2 years. I have provided reliable sources, but they have all been said being false and fabricated by certain wiki experts. One of the oldest and most distinguished encyclopedias in the world has recognized Laura's birth year to 1952. I have also being a very good friend with the head editor who also said in the email "(Please note: If the fact box that accompanies the article still shows “Brewster?” as Laura’s birthplace. But this will be updated soon—within the next day or so.) Thanks for providing the documentation that clearly proves Laura’s date and place of birth!

Best, John". Note! Brewster has now being updated to Mount Kisco! Laura's correct birth place. This is strange, the documentation John is mention is my research that is exactly the same which wiki has condemned as untrue and fabricated by me. Believe me, I respect John much, much more than I ever will trust wiki experts. One more thing, I will never make any changes in Laura's birth information. Why should I, when it would be undone in seconds of people who are monitoring my signature. For me it is now ok that Laura was born 1957 in Brewster, she grew up in Brewster and shared 1957 with little brother Billy. Honestly, I hope 1957 will always be there. At last...If any wiki contributor will make any changes, that is ok, but I will personally demand real independent, trustful and reliable secondary sources. I think that is fair and also exactly the same as you did to me. NOTE! So therefore, my research is forbidden and out of question to be used by wiki or anybody else! My research shall therefor NEVER BE USED and CANNOT BE USED by wikipedia though they are NOT reliable and trustful. That is wikis own word. I hope you respect my wishes. And don't send me any private messages as well. OK!--Born53 swe (talk) 14:52, 20 October 2016 (UTC)

Encylopedia Britannica

The EB now appears to have verified and accepted Born53 swe investigations and have amended their entry to show Laura's DOB to July 3, 1952 Laura Branigan (article on britannica). Is it time to amend or are we going to wait for a retraction from at least one of the major publishers of a now seemingly incorrect obituary? Nthep (talk) 14:39, 22 October 2016 (UTC)

Wikipedia at one point had User-generated content references as a source until this year when questions were asked of the references. None of the 1952 references so far have been from sources other than edited content presented/made by Born53 swe (aka Stig-Ake Persson). Research needs sourcing and he provides none. In the age of photoshop, any image can be forged. References need to be from neutral third parties that didn't just reuse user-generated content. Newspapers be one of those sources. Devilmanozzy (talk) 09:40, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

Is that your new tactic, claiming that everything is photomanipulated and fake? Why don't you take a good look at the claim that she was born in 1957? There's no support at all for that other than some PR stuff from the manager and some production company, whereas there's plenty of support for 1952 that couldn't possibly have been photomanipulated, such as when she graduated from high school, and when she got her Associates Degree. - Tom | Thomas.W ^talk 10:03, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

(edit conflict) I think you are misunderstanding my point. The previous discussion on this topic have been about OR and lack of verification/recognition by what we would consider reliable sources. We now have an organisation, normally accepted as an RS, saying they accept something that has been presented to them and as a result they have modified their article on Laura to say birth year is 1952. Isn't that what has been asked for all along - for a reliable source to say 1952? I don't advocate changing the article on the basis of Mr Persson's say so, I am asking that we consider that under core policies WP:V and WP:RS there is now more doubt that the currently quoted birth year is incorrect as at least one RS has 1952 and either we amend to 1952 or we make more comment in the article than the current footnote that there is a discrepancy that has been investigated since the appearance of the original obituaries quoting 1957. Nthep (talk) 10:19, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

Alas, I believe that no matter what we decide is the amended consensus, we will always need to at least keep a footnote, similar to the one in use now; and the "Age controversies" category. We cannot possibly vanish all the reliable sources that historically exist and are in use, stating what we now say are 'errata'. Unless new mainstream media now write articles about the age controversy and redact their earlier dates (doubtful), I do not believe we need to add more to the article text. Fylbecatulous talk 13:27, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

Agreed, I was primarily looking at what the lead paragraph gives as the "preferred" date. Nthep (talk) 14:13, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

It's not up to us as editors to question the origins of material contained in reliable sources. EB is regarded as a good-quality reliable source, so undoubtedly we should refer to it. What is questionable is whether the information it now contains should outweigh, in the lead, the other sources that give the 1957 birth year. I suggest that, for the moment (until the majority of usually-reliable sources agree), we say in the lead "1952 or 1957", and direct readers to a revised footnote, which contains the information that EB says that 1952 is correct, but other sources do not. Ghmyrtle (talk) 20:37, 23 October 2016 (UTC)

Actually... the note could be changed from:

"Although most sources give her birth year as 1957, at least two sources indicate a birthdate of 1954/1955,[1][2] and some primary sources suggest that she may have been born in 1952.[3]"
to
"Although most sources give her birth year as 1957, at least two sources indicate a birthdate of 1954/1955,[1][2] and Encyclopedia Britanica [source] states and some primary sources suggest that she may have been born in 1952.[3]"

Because now instead of 0 wp:RS for 1952, we have 1. While this is great news... it is 1 source. I see no reason that change can't be made right away. But... I am confident a change to the lead based on a single source would be promptly reverted.Shajure (talk) 04:01, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

The article in history gives a credits to Stig-Ake Persson. No proof was offered for the change therefore I challenge it (Link to Reliable sources Noticeboard on matter). Look at the history of the page. No references, they take Stig at his word. User-generated content is what that Encylopedia Britannica article is. Devilmanozzy (talk) 19:40, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

I'll look forward to anything that comes out of the RS board.Shajure (talk) 20:42, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

EB is a RS; if there are multiple RSs, then both datesshould be given.

BTW, the article states that her younger brother was born on February 28, 1957. This is not compatible with a birthdate for her of July 3, 1957. Nor is a 1954 birthdate compatible with Billy Branigan being a younger brother. DGG ( talk ) 23:06, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

Yep. It seems clear to me that the 52 date is "real", and the 57 date was to make her entry into the business much younger. Lots of good, solid implications... and lots of sources for 57, and now 1 (one) for 52. For example, her high school graduation year, noted by honors in her name, would put her finishing HS as a VERY young age (edit to add... if born in 57). Then we have a copy of her records that give the 52 date... but we can't get that from an RS, only from a very interested researcher. Doing the math from dates in stories leads back to 52 in several instances... but... again... many RS explicitly say 57 and until just recently 0 said 52.Shajure (talk) 23:56, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

I plan to make my proposed change in a couple of days. Any objections to adding the EB citation to the NB1 note?Shajure (talk) 23:56, 25 October 2016 (UTC)

Again, the question is are these References noted for the 1952 date are creditable or not. Also, the brothers birthday hasn't ever been proven. Last time this came up, people at the time on here said this article isn't about her bother therefore it's not creditable. The reference to her brothers birth also not seen as a reliable source. Research these references before believing it. This is getting old. A guy is weirdly obsessed over this singer, to the point he's posting what he claims are family photos about her. That's plain weird. Devilmanozzy (talk) 02:05, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

Yes, I believe I stated before that her brother has no inherited notability and was only added to prop up the belief in Laura's earlier birth year. In fact, the entire first paragraph in the 'Early years' section makes us look like Ancestry.com. Really, all that is of no importance; we are writing about a no-longer-living minor celebrity. We are not attempting to prove heirs to the throne such as in List of wedding guests of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Fylbecatulous talk 04:19, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

wp:NPA.wp:AGF might be good reads. It is very ok for fans to be extremely interested in digging up facts about celebrities. It is OK if we do or do not think the EB is being wise in believing the information it has published. It doesn't matter what we think, as editors, in terms of WP. As long as there is wp:consensus (not seeing any support so far for dropping EB in the brief time the item has been up on the RSNB) that EB remains a generally wp:RS, and EB did in fact publish the information, the citation is valid. I am not seeing an objection to my proposed edit. If there is, please cite the wp guideline for the objection, if you will.Shajure (talk) 04:11, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

Nope, if it is decided that EB is considered a reference, I'm out. Let the crazy have the article. Wikipedia point blank fails. Done. Devilmanozzy (talk) 10:50, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

EB is pretty much going off of a user submission and that counts?! This makes references pointless. Devilmanozzy (talk) 10:54, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

• I cannot see by reading through this non sequitur discussion that we have arrived at any concensus about any content changes, addition of this new EB citation, much less a amendment to the footnote. I believe we need to establish another WP:RfC and invite a wider number of comments through the established processes. It seems to be we are the usual few who are basically in disagreement. Fylbecatulous talk 11:33, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

I think we should wait a while longer, to see if the discussion started at WP:RSN achieves any consensus about the reliability of EB as a source in this instance. Ghmyrtle (talk) 11:46, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

Agree. I really have no idea of the traffic the noticeboard creates. Therefore, we have advised waiting based on two wp guidelines. Fylbecatulous talk 11:53, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

I have had a conversation on Twitter with John M. Cunningham, and he confirms that the documentation was why they changed the date . Further he also notes that John was in contact via email with the owner of "http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~nywestch/" and confirms the documentation came from them. So now the reason for the update on EB. I suggest a WP:RfC as well. I'm going to pass along a link on the Reliable sources Noticeboard. Devilmanozzy (talk) 16:28, 26 October 2016 (UTC)

Sourcing issues, verification issues, factual accuracy issues

This article has some serious sourcing issues which affect the factual accuracy of the following sub-sections: "Early years" and "Height of her career" - Sources contradict one another, some don't verify the content, some are unreliable and many paragraphs are completely unsourced. Reliable sources are required so that this content can be verified.-- Isaidnoway (talk) 00:18, 7 November 2016 (UTC)
First sentence in "Early years:

• Branigan was born in Brewster, New York - sources used: IMDb and CNN.

IMBb is generally considered unreliable - says she was born in Brewster, CNN says - Growing up in Brewster, doesn't say she was born there, and contradicts the first sentence in 2nd paragraph which says - Growing up in Armonk, New York.

• Kathleen O'Hare Branigan (1921-2006) - source used: Aimoo, a discussion forum, seriously??, we're using a discussion forum for a reliable source.
• James Branigan, Sr. (1914-1984), an account executive and mutual funds broker, who later separated. - no source

Second sentence in "Early years":

• Her younger brother Billy Branigan was born on February 28, 1957. - source used: Patent Trader, March 14, 1957 (newspaper birth announcement)

Birth announcement says: A son to Mr. and Mrs. James H. Branigan of Armonk, February 28. No mention of what the son's name is. Source fails verification

Third sentence in "Early years":

• She had two older brothers, James, Jr. "Jim" (1945–91) and Mark; and an elder sister, Susan. - source used: NYT/AP obituary.

What the source says: She is survived by her mother, Kathleen, who lived with her in East Quogue; two brothers, Mark and Billy, both of Manhattan; and a sister, Susan, of Connecticut - source doesn't even mention James, Jr. "Jim" (1945–91), nor does it says anything about brothers/sister being older.

Fourth sentence in "Early years":

• Branigan's maternal grandparents were William O'Hare, Jr. (son of William John O'Hare and Agnes B. O'Connor) and Mary Conway (daughter of Francis J. Conway and Mary Teresa McGuiness); all of them were Irish. - source used: Ethnicelebs

Source appears to be user-submitted, which would make it unreliable and their site says: Although we may vet information to ensure its accuracy, we make no assurances that all information on our Site is accurate.

Second paragraph, first sentence in "Early years":

• Growing up in Armonk, New York, Branigan attended Byram Hills High School in 1966-1970 - source used: Byram Hills School District newsletter

What the source says to verify this content - ...Laura Branigan, BHHS class of 1970... - no mention of where she grew up or years attended, second half of that sentence is sourced and verified.

Second paragraph, second sentence in "Early years":

• In 1970-1972 she attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, - sourced used: Encyclopedia.com

What the source says - After graduating from high school in 1975, Branigan enrolled at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City...

Second paragraph, rest of second sentence in "Early years":

• working as a waitress until in 1972 she met acoustic guitarist Walker Daniels and his future wife Sharon Storm and acoustic guitarist Chris Van Cleave, forming the folk-rock band Meadow - source used: Vancleavemusic

source does not say anything about her working as a waitress

Second paragraph, last three sentences in that paragraph in "Early years":

• The record was not properly promoted and never re-released. The band broke up, after which Walker Daniels committed suicide. Branigan preferred not to discuss her involvement with Meadow publicly. - no source

Third paragraph, single sentence in "Early years":

• During the years after Meadow broke up, Branigan had various jobs, including a stint as one of Leonard Cohen's backup singers for his European tour in April–August 1976. - no source

Fourth paragraph, first sentence in "Early years":

• In December 1978 after meeting him at a party in Manhattan, New York, earlier in the year - source used - People

What the source says - As a 24-year-old in 1981, when she met Kruteck at a Manhattan party, Branigan was on the way up.

Fourth paragraph, rest of the first sentence in "Early years":

• Branigan married Larry Ross Kruteck (1936-1996), a lawyer 20 years her senior, who died of colon cancer on June 15, 1996. sources used: CNN and People

Neither source lists Kruteck's date of birth as 1936 and neither source lists June 15 as the day he passed away, they both just state 1996.

The remaining five paragraphs in that section "Early years": Not sourced
"Height of her career section": Entire section is not sourced except for three YouTube videos.

Welcome to the show! Having troubles with Laura's biography and timeline? Don't worry, your questions will probably be answered by contributors who knows everything about Laura. I call them wiki experts. I thought I knew quite much about Laura, but according to wiki experts my sources and references were lies and fabricated in photoshop. So everything were deleted. Strange, though both Encyclopedia Britannica and Association Press, AP, are having exactly the same and they are very impressed over all reliable documentation over Laura. AP is also checking my sources as this is written, though they will rewrite Laura's obituary. Replacing 1957 and Brewster with 1952 and Mount Kisco.Ciao from Sweden!--Born53 swe (talk) 19:24, 7 November 2016 (UTC)