Abstract
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The “You Tell Her No” story has been well told, but I still recall with a bit of astonishment, really, that although Arthur was totally opposed to my idea/plan to launch a journal in endourology, he may have considered me an irresistible force.
Over these many years, there have been countless meetings as well as dinners (with good wines!) that my husband has also enjoyed immensely. Arthur's elegant sartorial taste in jackets and ties must also be mentioned.
Respect for Arthur's professional stature has been an absolute from the get go; a personal friendship also evolved. It has been a delight to spend time with Art and Kay, sharing our love of music, theater, family, and even conversations about our political proclivities! Arthur, once he has a firm opinion, sticks to it, and isn't shy about expressing it. No one tells a better story than Arthur, and he shares his travels and observations with detail and humor. His self-deprecating wit is totally enjoyable, and I easily pictured the room he described in his home that houses his many awards!
From the first days of our collaboration, Arthur had firm goals for the Journal, for the Society, and for the field, which was combined with the strong friendship, shared priorities, expertise, and complementary drive of Ralph Clayman. There was no obstacle that could not be overcome, no competition that was daunting enough to discourage any imperatives. Arthur has always had the long view; while there is much to be proud of for the current contribution that Journal of Endourology contributes to better patient care, Arthur continuously looks to advance these technologies and their applications around the globe. With such strong imperatives, he has been able to move them forward amazingly without alienating colleagues who might have allegiances elsewhere. His presidency of the Endourology Society, his co-editorship of the Journal, and the steadfast enabling of VideoUrology attest not only to his vision and determination, but also his success in achieving these goals. Arthur does not back down from any challenges, and he has a firm hand, both in and out of the OR!
That Art achieves both personal and professional success with unstinting affection and admiration is remarkable. That I and members of our staff are part of this extraordinary journey is a privilege. Over these many years, we have celebrated victories and forged a friendship with Arthur which we dearly cherish.
A repast with the publisher: Bottom (L-R) John Denstedt, Vicki Cohn, Mary Ann Liebert, Ralph Clayman, Arthur Smith. Top (L-R) Chandru Sundaram, Peter Liebert.
