Pittsburgh celebrates Fred Rogers' birthday

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh celebrated Fred Rogers' birthday Thursday.

The creator of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" would have been 86 years old.

Channel 11 was at an event hosted by the United Way.  Rogers was remembered and local organizations were recognized.

"Fred Rogers inspired a generation through his kind, generous example," said Bill Isler, president and CEO of the Fred Rogers Company.  "Honoring the people and organizations who continue to promote his message through their good work is a fitting tribute to his timeless legacy."

Corporate honorees included Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC; Chatham University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program; Eat'n Park Hospitality Group, Inc.; First Niagara Financial Group; Highmark; Lunova Group; Pittsburgh Steelers Sports, Inc.; Schneider Downs & Co., Inc.; UPMC; The Williams Companies, Inc.; and Port Authority of Allegheny County/A.T.U. Local 85.

Rogers grew up in Latrobe, Pa. and hosted "Mister Rogers Neighborhood" at WQED in Pittsburgh.  He passed away in 2003.

WPXI