An unexpected package came in the mail. In it, a book, "Framing Monsters: Fantasy Film and Social Alienation" by Joshua Bellin. Inside the book, an acknowledgement - to me! as his first film teacher!

I racked my brain. 30 years ago I had taught animation classes - at the Pittsburgh FilmMakers, at the Center for the Arts, at the School for the Deaf. I remembered those classes, but individual kids? Named Joshua? I'm sorry to say, I did not remember.

But then came an invitation to a book signing at Barnes & Noble, not far from where I live. Of course I went. But I still did not recognize him.

It was an interesting discussion. I sat in a small group of film buffs and listened to theories of "the real meaning" behind fantasy films. Having just attended a workshop on the film "A.I." at SUUSI, I had my share of comments.

And afterwards, I shook his hand and took his picture. It was such a thrill, to know that my class, way back then, had opened an interest in a little boy that led to a career in film study. You never know, as a teacher, which one you inspire. 30 years from now, Joshua may get a note from one of his students, thanking him for opening a door to the world of fantasy film.

And earlier this year, my teacher and inspiration, Robert Breer, came to the museum to give a showing of his films. I went to the show and afterwards, introduced myself and thanked him for changing my life with his animation workshops. No, he didn't remember me. I promised to mail him some photos I'd taken of him during the workshop.

Not wanting to appear a stalker, I sent the photos to Brady Lewis at the Pittsburgh Film Makers, and asked him to forward them on to Breer. Several weeks later, Brady received a phone call from Joshua Bellin, wondering if the Film Makers had a record of my address. Luckily, my letter was still on Brady's desk.