Lackluster Mr. Rogers gala scuttled

ESCONDIDO, Calif., May 31 (UPI) -- Management of a California civic center says folks with tickets to an event touting a "Mister Rogers Neighborhood" revival will get their money back.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported the supposedly star-studded gala marking the debut of Michael Kinsell's children's show, "Michael's Enchanted Neighborhood," with cardigan-clad Kinsell as host, was called off Saturday amid a dearth of stars being lined up and complaints from the family of the late Mr. Rogers and PBS.

Teresa Ramirez of the California Center for the Performing Arts in Escondido said anyone who had bought tickets, which were priced up to $300, would be contacted and offered refunds.

As for Kinsell, he apologized for any misunderstandings, although The Union-Tribune said many on the guest list that included Tom Hanks, Maria Shriver and members of the Rogers family were not expected to attend.