Mister Rogers Comes to Our Neighborhood

In the early 1970s, Fred Rogers' testimony helped save the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. His children's television show has influenced generations. Plus his sweaters had classic style.

Now he's a spokesman for friendship on a billboard above Sunset Boulevard just west of Alvarado Boulevard.

I noticed the image on Clear Channel Outdoor billboard number 4125 when I was driving home Tuesday night. [Ed: A spokesperson for Clear Channel Outdoor said the billboard went up Monday,  March 21.]

I asked around.  The folks at the vintage shop said they noticed it for the first time Tuesday too.

One of them also brought up the much-repeated rumor that Mister Rogers was a sniper during the Korean War. 

"Urban legend," I told them.

The Luxe folks also brought up Rogers' great sweaters, and they joined me in snapping some shots of the billboard.

It credits the Foundation for a Better Life, which, according to its website, accepts no donations.

"We believe that people are basically good, and just need a reminder," the foundation's website goes on.

The foundation "creates public service campaigns" using billboards, radio and other media to "communicate values that make a difference in our communities."

Philip Anschutz, who owns stakes in the L.A. Lakers and the Staples Center, among other things is reportedly a large advocate.

According to the foundation website, the Mister Rogers "Pass It On" billboard has also appeared at least one other time in Los Angeles--near downtown--as well as in Ocala, FL and Egg Harbor City, NJ.

Other "Pass It On" examples include Muhammed Ali on courage and Christopher Reeve on strength.

Clear Channel Outdoor donated the space for the Mister Rogers' image.  It's one of about 50 "Pass It On" billboards throughout Los Angeles.

"The ‘Pass It On’ public service campaign is one of the many efforts and groups that we support each year by donating advertising space," said Clear Channel Outdoor's Southern California Divison President Lee Ann Muller, in statement.

Clear Channel Outdoor's Los Angeles office has also supported the LAPD, the FBI and Art Shares L.A. recently.

"We are committed to being a proactive partner with Los Angeles community groups and organizations, and we look forward to continuing to support their worthy efforts," said Muller.