A Sorrowful Day in the Neighborhood
Fred Rogers, ordained Presbyterian minister and beloved children’s show host, died of stomach cancer early this morning. “Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood” was often parodied and made fun of, but it was the longest-running children’s show in public television history (soon to be eclipsed by “Sesame Street”). Rogers increased children’s self-esteem by telling them they were special without going too far and exonerating them of all misdeeds. His simple song, wardrobe, and message will be missed.