The following story was submitted by a fan of The Howard Stern Show who wanted to share their ''Brush with Greatness'' with others.

Submitted by: Joel - 10/25/00

The story...

My wife and I were driving in Philadelphia one Saturday Morning, turning onto Walnut Street near Rittenhouse Square. I turned the corner and did a doubletake - it was John the Stutterer walking down the sidewalk. He looked exactly as he does on the show - bad hair and all - walking along minding his own business, carrying a Tower Records bag. As we drove by I said to my wife "That's John the Stutterer back there!" I proceeded to drive around the block for a second look, and to say a quick hello. We came around again and I pulled up beside him, rolling down the window. I said "Hey John, seen you on the show, you're great!" He then turned to me, and proceeded to stutter and stammer and wave his free hand around for what seemed like ten seconds. A couple people actually looked over to see what all the commotion was about, and at this point I felt really bad for him and wished I hadn't even stopped. He did finally pull himself together and said "Thanks a lot" with a big smile on his face. I didn't have the heart to put him through any more talking, so I said take care and went on my way.