> In case you do not know, he passed away today.
>
> He was truely one of my favorite people, so kind and gentle and caring. And he also had a love for good music. His show taught children (and adults I am sure) morality and self-respect, and it also exposed them to wonderful music from classical to jazz.
>
> He will be missed.

One thing on Mr. Rogers' kind and gentle demeanor -- I saw a news clip yesterday that had him addressing a U.S. Senate subcommittee asking for funding for public television (it had to have been back in the 60's because Mr. Rogers' hair was completely black). Apparently, the head of the subcommittee was infamous for his hard-nosed grilling of people that come before them and ask for money. He even looked the type that might just blow a blood vessel at any moment, with the perpetual scowel and all...

Well Mr. Rogers spoke in that calm, soothing, disarming voice of his, quietly stating why public television was so important and why the funds were needed, just as if he were addressing the kids on his show. He even ended his speech with telling the subcommittee about how he stressed on each show how each person is special for just being themselves.

The change in the subcommittee head's demeanor was VISIBLE. He stopped being all mean and grumpy, and actually cracked a SMILE at the end. He said, "Well, I think what you are doing is absolutely wonderful!" And like that, Mr. Rogers and Public Televison got their money. All of it.

I think that just shows what a great guy has passed on this week. I have heard from many sources that Mr. Rogers was exactly the same off-screen as he was on. And I absolutely believe it.

I grew up with Mr. Rogers, along with three decades-worth of other children in North America (and beyond, for all I know). I will sorely miss him.

The_Scots"It's such a good feeling, a very good feeling, the feeling to know that we're friends..."man