I met you (Pulleyblank) at the airport when I arrived for the African Linguistics Summer School (ALS5) at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. And while I was so ecstatic being with my phonology legend on a drive to campus, I saw you had that air of, "What's so great about meeting me?" I had a wonderful time listening to you explain the application of Optimality Theory (OT) to the vowel harmony system of an African language. Your lecture (and other tutors in the summer school) set the foundation and direction for a beginner like me and birthed my PhD thesis title! You were accessible for discussion and willing to clarify issues with the data that were problematic for analysis. I also appreciate the nudge you gave me towards taking steps forward with my topic.
I don't want to turn this into a lengthy Thanksgiving session, but I wanted to express how much it was a pleasure to have you as one of my tutors, even though our interactions were brief; you had a profound impact that shaped a part of me. I'm glad you are retiring strong (I guess all the hiking and mountain climbing paid off!). I wish you more healthy and active years as you retire.
