PA Pays Tribute To Mr. Rogers With 'Day Of Kindness' Thursday

Thursday is offically "1-4-3 Day" in Pennsylvania, the state declared, in honor of native Fred Rogers.

All residents are encouraged to take a few moments to participate in an act of kindness.

“I’m challenging all Pennsylvanians...to exhibit the type of neighborly kindness Fred Rogers sought to spread around the world,” Gov. Wolf said in a statement. “Pennsylvania is a commonwealth rooted in kindness and generosity, and this is our day to show the world the positive impact that neighborliness can have.”

Thursday, May 23 is the 143rd day of the year, hence the "1-4-3 Day." The phrase "1-4-3" was often said by Rogers during his famous show, "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." It means "I love you," as a reference to the number of letters in each word of the phrase.

In honor of the day, the Phillie Phanatic the mascot of the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Pirate Parrot, teamed up for a video portraying various acts of kindness.

Various other companies and organizations have announced initiatives in support of the day as well.

Rogers, who died in Pittsburgh in 2003 at the age of 74, was born in Latrobe. Aside from being known for his warmth, he was a skilled writer and puppeteer, and also sang and produced.