Today I'm heading out over the Ben Franklin Bridge and deep into the western part of Pennsylvania, heading for Latrobe, PA, for the annual meeting of the Fred Rogers Center Advisory Council. This year, for the first time, I'm a member of the council...

What I'll be able to provide, other than comic relief and emotional support, I have no idea. But I'm honored to be a part of anything associated with the late Fred Rogers, whose influence on children's television -- and on millions and millions of current and former children -- is incalculable.

I'll report from the other end of the conference about the wonderful ideas being bandied about there, to use TV and new media to encourage and educate children, rather than exploit and distract them. But if I don't get on the road soon, I'll be late arriving to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and I wouldn't want that.

Can you say "rude," boys and girls?

3 Comments

Linda said:

Dave -- I was at the NATPE convention many years ago (one of many NATPE conventions!) and was lucky enough to hear Mr. Rogers speak at the Keynote session. I'm not sure just how many people were in attendance at that particular session but, as it was a breakfast session, I think it's safe to say there were many thousands! The room was filled with everyone from top industry executives all the way down to me...someone trying to get kids programming for a television group that no one was really all that interested in dealing with at that time. But that's another story! Anyway... Mr. Rogers did something I understand he was fond of doing. He asked for everyone to think about someone who, if I remember correctly, was influential in their lives. Someone who made the earliest impression on them. What exactly he said wasn't as important as what followed. The entire room became so incredibly silent (a huge banquet room in a convention center!). Not a word was uttered, not a chair moved, not one utensil hit a plate. And then I began to hear sniffling and a few very quiet sobs now and then.

The affect Mr. Rogers had on this group of folks who were usually so busy trying to do their jobs, make money and find "the next big thing" -- to say nothing of the egos in that room! -- was awe-inspiring. Not to mention the fact that when Mr. Rogers said we had to stop and think, we did it!

His influence on and example to everyone -- not just kids -- is something to be admired. And in this very uncivil television environment, we could use a little of Mr. Rogers!

I wish you and the council great success!

[That's a riot -- He pulled the same trick on a roomful of crabby TV critics when we gave him the TCA's Career Achievement Award, and it hit us just as hard! Snickers (he's really gonna stand still for a full minute and look at his watch?) turned to sobs within a few seconds. Amazing man -- and I feel honored to be here, among all these amazing people who are trying to carry on his mission to use media to serve children. -- David B.]

Comment posted on October 14, 2009 10:37 AM

Curtis said:

Hey, can you bring me back some Rolling Rock?

[Really funny. When I was a kid, my Uncle Tom, who lived in Pittsburgh, used to drink those little pony bottles by the case. In fact, when he was on a tall ladder picking cherries from his cherry tree, my job as a little tyke was to bring a Rolling Rock up to him at the top of the ladder. Before I could get to the bottom, I'd hear the thunk of the empty bottle on the ground, and my uncle wanting to know where his beer was. Twenty-four times. Still makes me laugh thinking about it.-- David B.]

Comment posted on October 14, 2009 4:01 PM

Carina said:

Through the wonders of the DVR, I record every Mister Rogers episode to grace the screen (which it doesn't do enough lately; most shows air at 4 or 5 am.)

While yes, we have great kids television these days, there's nothing like the calm, kind, reassuring presence of Fred Rogers. My children love to watch him, especially those marvelous behind the scenes field trips, like how construction paper is made. He'll always be TV Worth Watching. Can't wait to read your report.

[Great to hear this. Sometimes, I swear, you guys really warm my heart. Thanks for reading the site, writing your comment, and having such superlative taste. -- David B.]

Comment posted on October 14, 2009 7:41 PM

Leave a Comment: (No HTML, 1000 chars max)

Name (required)

Email (required) (will not be published)


Type in the verification word shown on the image.

Page: 1 of 5 | Go to page:

90 Comments

direct cremation calgary

Direct cremation Calgary offers families a simple, respectful, and affordable option for end-of-life arrangements. With straightforward planning and compassionate support, families can focus on honoring their loved one while choosing an arrangement that reflects their wishes, values, and personal circumstances during a difficult time.

Oct 6, 2026 | Reply

Acne Scar Solutions

The chest and décolletage can show signs of aging, pigmentation, and skin laxity over time. At MD Skin Lab Toronto, our Chest Wrinkle Treatment options are designed to address visible lines and changes in skin texture.

Sep 30, 2026 | Reply

Chest Wrinkle Treatment

Discover an effective Acne Scar Treatment approach focused on smoother, more refined-looking skin.

Sep 30, 2026 | Reply

Vice Golf Balls in Canada

Discover high-quality **Vice Golf Balls in Canada** for golfers seeking reliable performance, impressive distance, and excellent feel. Whether you are improving your game or looking for dependable golf equipment, Vice golf balls offer innovative designs and options suited to different playing styles, skill levels, and course conditions.

Sep 25, 2026 | Reply

ne family dentistry

NE family dentistry provides comprehensive dental care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. From routine checkups and professional cleanings to preventive treatments and personalized guidance, family-focused dental services help maintain healthy teeth and gums while making regular dental visits convenient, comfortable, and accessible for every family member.

Sep 24, 2026 | Reply

Family Photography Calgary

Capture genuine connections and precious family moments with Family Photography Calgary. From playful interactions to meaningful milestones, professional photography creates timeless images you can treasure for years. Whether outdoors or in a comfortable setting, each session beautifully reflects your family’s unique personalities, love, and togetherness.

Sep 23, 2026 | Reply

bottle depot pick up calgary

Turn your recyclables into returns with Happy Can Bottle Depot. If you are searching for a container recycling near me service or want to recycle plastic containers near me, our team can help. We provide convenient bottle recycling calgary, bottle deposit calgary, and alberta bottle recycling solutions.

Sep 23, 2026 | Reply

digitalmonkmarketing

At Digital Monk Marketing, we help businesses grow through performance-driven digital marketing strategies. We specialize in lead generation, customer acquisition, and sales growth using Facebook Ads, Google Ads, SEO, and other digital channels.

Our focus is simple: connect businesses with the right audience, generate quality leads, increase customer engagement, and turn marketing investment into measurable business results.

We work with businesses across industries, including healthcare, wellness, med spas, fitness, coaching, home services, and eCommerce, creating customized strategies based on their goals and market.
https://digitalmonkmarketing.com/

Sep 21, 2026 | Reply

recycle plastic containers near me

Businesses can simplify their recycling with Happy Can Bottle Depot's commercial recycling near me solutions.

Sep 21, 2026 | Reply

recycle plastic containers near me

Businesses can simplify their recycling with Happy Can Bottle Depot's commercial recycling near me solutions.

Sep 21, 2026 | Reply

Natural Herbal Medicine

Our Chinese Medicine Practitioner Calgary services use traditional assessment methods to understand individual patterns and develop personalized care strategies.

Sep 21, 2026 | Reply

planning a funeral

Planning a meaningful farewell can feel overwhelming, which is why Country Hills Crematorium offers professional funeral planning services tailored to each family.

Sep 18, 2026 | Reply

Fine Art Photographer Calgary

Discover timeless imagery with a Fine Art Photographer Calgary couples and families can trust. Maxine Lagarde creates elegant, artistic photographs that capture genuine emotions, meaningful connections, and beautiful details, transforming special moments into sophisticated visual artwork you can cherish for years to come.

Sep 16, 2026 | Reply

Reiki Master Course Calgary

Explore a Reiki Master Course Calgary designed for individuals seeking deeper knowledge of Reiki healing and energy practices. Develop your understanding, confidence, and practical skills through guided learning while building a meaningful foundation for personal growth, spiritual awareness, and supporting others on their healing journey.

Sep 15, 2026 | Reply

Root Canal Treatment in Calgary

Get reliable Root Canal Treatment in Calgary to address infected or damaged tooth pulp and help preserve your natural tooth. Professional root canal care can relieve discomfort, prevent further infection, and restore healthy tooth function, allowing you to maintain a comfortable, confident smile.

Sep 14, 2026 | Reply

Microneedling for Acne Scars

Acne can leave behind visible marks and texture changes long after active breakouts have cleared.

Sep 9, 2026 | Reply

commercial recycling services

Make recycling simple with bottle return in calgary services at Happy Can Bottle Depot.

Sep 8, 2026 | Reply

What is Qi in Chinese Medicine

For those seeking Acupuncture in Calgary, our treatments can be incorporated into a broader Holistic Healing strategy. Synthera Therapeutics also offers Acupuncture Assessment and personalized Acupuncture Treatment in Calgary, with care designed around your individual goals.

Sep 8, 2026 | Reply

Vice Tour Golf Ball

Experience impressive performance and consistency with the Vice Tour Golf Ball, designed for golfers seeking reliable distance, excellent control, and a responsive feel. Its quality construction makes it a great choice for players looking to enhance confidence and performance on every round.

Sep 6, 2026 | Reply

outdoor family photos calgary

Capture genuine smiles, meaningful connections, and unforgettable moments with professional outdoor family photos Calgary families will treasure. Beautiful natural settings, relaxed poses, and thoughtful photography create timeless images that beautifully preserve your family’s personality, love, and special memories for years to come.

Sep 2, 2026 | Reply

Page: 1 of 5 | Go to page:

New From TVWW

3 Comments

PBS' 'Frontline’ Examines Pension Promises and — Spoiler Alert — Finds the Math Doesn’t Add Up

The Decadence of ‘Versailles’ Comes to Ovation

Prescribing Mamie Gummer in 'Emily Owens, M.D.'

Looking for a Free Ride? HBO Can Deliver

'Pass the Biscuits' Part of the Hatfield-McCoy Pop-Culture Legacy

1957: Julie Andrews Stars in 'Cinderella'

Dispatches From TVWW

'Extinction: The Facts' is a Sobering Call to Action

How 'Mayans' Has Been Influenced by the Show's Creator Elgin James

For Whom the Bell Tolls: Ken Burns and Lynn Novick Take on Ernest Hemingway, the Man and the Myth

In the Final Season, Sutton Foster's Liza is Now the Genuine Version of Her 'Younger' Self

Season 2 of 'City on a Hill' Returns with Kevin Bacon, Aldis Hodge, and Boston Corruption