Fred Rogers Autograph found in a Book to Rabbi Vogel!

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Super cool Fred Rogers autograph was found recently in Mister’s Roger’s book titled You are Special (1994 copyrighted). It’s signed on the title page to “rabbi Vogel”, most likely Rabbi Moishe Mayir Vogel who moved to Pittsburgh, PA in 1991 (where Mister Roger’s Neighborhood was filmed). Mr Rogers’ personal residence was in Squirrell Hill (found within Pittsburgh).

His message before his signature reads “Jean Horne tells me so!” (referring to the title of the book, and Jean Horne likely being the founder/ writer of a column in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review newspaper.

According to her Linkedin, “

Former Editor, Fanfare Column and Magazine

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Feb 1992 – Present31 years 6 months“

Fred Rogers goes on to close out the page with “Kindest regards,” followed by his signature, dated 1999!

The current ebay listing for it may seem priced pretty high, but this is a one of a kind collectible Mister Rogers item, written to a fairly well-known rabbi (especially in the Pittsburgh area). The blue inked pen he used remains bold and neatly legible.

The ebay listing can be found here- MISTER ROGERS Fred Rogers SIGNED You are Special Book- to a RABBI! 1999 UNIQUE | eBay

About Fred Rogers’ book “You Are Special”

Roger’s hardcover is an extension of his larger body of work aimed at children, including his tv show “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” The book has various life lessons and wisdom. Here are a few reasons why “You Are Special” is considered to have lots of wise takeaways:

1. Self-Worth and Acceptance: The central message of You are Special is about recognizing and celebrating one’s own worth. Children will find that they are special for who they organically are, emphasizing the importance of accepting and loving themselves.
2. Individuality and Uniqueness: The book encourages children to embrace their uniqueness. It teaches them that everyone is different, and those differences should be celebrated rather than judged. This message promotes tolerance and understanding.
3. Empathy and Kindness: Fred Rogers often focused on the importance of empathy and kindness in his work. “You Are Special” encourages children to treat themselves and others with kindness. The characters in the story exemplify empathy and understanding, creating a positive model for children to follow.
4. Dealing with Feelings: The book addresses various emotions that children may experience, helping them understand and navigate their feelings. It teaches that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions and that expressing those feelings is a healthy part of life.
5. The Power of Imagination: Fred Rogers was a strong advocate for the power of imagination in a child’s development. “You Are Special” likely incorporates elements that stimulate a child’s imagination, encouraging creative thinking and play.
6. Connection and Relationships: The book emphasizes the importance of connections with others. It underscores the idea that people are connected by shared experiences and emotions, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
7. Simple, Clear Language: Like much of Fred Rogers’ work, “You Are Special” uses simple and clear language that is easy for children to understand. This accessibility allows the wisdom in the book to reach a wide audience.
8. Timeless Lessons: The wisdom in Fred Rogers’ messages is timeless and applicable across generations. The themes of self-worth, kindness, and acceptance are enduring and resonate with people of all ages.

In summary, “You Are Special” by Fred Rogers is considered wise because it imparts valuable life lessons in a gentle and affirming manner. It promotes self-worth, kindness, and acceptance while addressing important aspects of a child’s emotional and social development.