Dear Terry Gross

[Author note: The proper spelling of Terry’s name is “Terry Gross.” I regret the error.]

Christopher L. Jorgensen
P.O. Box 93042
Des Moines, IA 50393

May 19, 2008

Teri Gross
c/o WHYY, Inc.
Independence Mall West
150 N. 6th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106

Dear Teri Gross,

My friend says you’re a “national treasure,” but I think this is hyperbole. You’re good and all, and I like you a lot as well, probably not as much as he does though, since “national treasure” seems a bit much. I’d ask what you think, but am guessing you’re too modest to agree with him.

Anyway, I was writing to see if I could get an autographed photograph or something. I also wanted to let you know I am available for interviews most days, but Sunday afternoons aren’t exactly the best.

Have a good day!

Sincerely,

Christopher L. Jorgensen

Sponsor:

(Sponsor this letter.)

Reply:

[Editor’s note: This photo was all that was received in reply.]

Scan of the photo from Terry Gross

Terry Gross website: www.npr.org/people/2100593/terry-gross

Commentary:

[Click image to enlarge.]

I really do like Terry Gross. Her interviews rule. She gets cool people on and asks entertaining questions. She has a good voice, and a fun laugh, but I can see why she’s not on TV. The girlfriend/editor pointed out Terry looks like Robin Gibb. The Bee Gees guy? What’s he look like? She pointed at Terry’s picture, and said, “Like that.” Ouch. I’ll let you decide, (which is magnanimous of me, since I usually make all your decisions). Me, I think it’s uncanny, spot-on, and a bit mean.

They could almost be sisters. Or brothers.

I’m not going to hold my breath for the interview, and I can’t really fault there being no letter response, since rereading mine, I never really asked for anything other than the photo (which I got). And it does seem hand autographed.

[Update: Corrected spelling of Terry’s name.]

By Christopher L. Jorgensen

Website: http://jackassletters.com

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