An Online newsletter of
“The Andy Griffith Show” Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC)

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Welcome to the Weaver’s Newsletter Jan/Feb 2026!

The first issue of the newsletter for the new year is here and it’s hard to believe that another year has passed. October will mark the 66th anniversary of the premier of The Andy Griffith Show and this summer we celebrate the man himself, Andy Griffith, with the 100th anniversary of his birth. 2026 will be another BIG year in the Mayberry community.

There are several events and gatherings being held throughout the year. The “Event Calendar” on iMayberry.com is always your best place to check for the latest and most complete information on Mayberry related events but we’ll give you a ‘point-in-time’ version in the Floyd’s Barbershop Bulletin Board & Event Calendar later in this issue. For updates between issues, go to the iMayberry.com event calendar link.

As mentioned above, this year is Andy’s 100th birthday year so there are several upcoming events that will be focused on that celebration. Please try to attend an event as I know you will enjoy not only the event but also meeting fellow fans of The Andy Griffith Show as they are the salt of the earth.

Thanks to all of you who shopped at Weaver’s during the holidays and throughout the last year. Mrs. Weaver (Jan) and I (Allan) appreciate your support and look forward to even more interactions this year. Now, on with the Mayberry news and reports!

**** UPDATE: Cutout Open and a Real Flying Cloud ****

In our last newsletter, Weaver’s attempted to answer a question from a fellow fan about a line from the episode “Citizens Arrest” when we hear:

Andy: Yeah. Misdemeanor charge of disturbing the peace. Drove down main street with a cutout open and a real flying cloud.

If you didn’t read the article, you can go HERE to catchup and then come back. Ah, you’re back and ready to hear the update.

This update is due to several people challenging the “southerness” of the editor (me/Allan) because I couldn’t understand what Andy actually said in that scene. Being born in the mid-1960’s and not being a “car guy,” I have never heard of an REO Flying Cloud nor heard anyone pronounce R-E-O in connection with the “Flying Cloud” model of vehicle. To me, the band REO Speedwagon (also a car, so I understand) is the way R-E-O is said. By saying each letter individually “R” (ar), “E” (ee), “O” (oh). Evidently, those who actually do the closed caption of The Andy Griffith Show were also unaware as the closed caption of the episode says “real flying cloud.” In my initial report, I used that information since I believed that’s what Andy said.

After being educated and having my “southern card” taken away that I’d had my whole life (born, raised and still live in Alabama), I came to understand that Andy *actually* said, “REO Flying Cloud” and not “real Flying Cloud.” If you watch the episode and realize that you pronounce REO *not* the way I thought it was pronounced (like the band) but as “Re-oh” it becomes clear. Andy said, “Drove down main street with a cutout open and a Ree-Oh flying cloud.

When talking about an REO Flying Cloud in its era (1927–1936), the name was pronounced as a single two-syllable word: “REE-oh” (/?ri?o?/). 

It was not pronounced as individual letters (R-E-O) during that time, although the brand was an acronym for the founder, Ransom Eli Olds. The rock band REO Speedwagon spells out the letters (R-E-O), whereas the original automobile company and the Flying Cloud car were referred to as “Reo” (pronounced as a word). 

CORRECTED LINE:

Andy: Yeah. Misdemeanor charge of disturbing the peace. Drove down main street with a cutout open and a Reo Flying Cloud.

It’s easy to see why Reo (Re-oh) was translated as “real” by those who heard it and didn’t know the information above. When you couldn’t understand what was said and thought, “I’ll turn on closed caption and see what he said” and it said “real flying cloud”…that’s what you heard. But now, you can clearly hear Andy say “Re-oh” Flying cloud.

I feel like we could really have used Miss Crump’s help on this story but I did think it was important to correct the information and make others aware of this pronunciation so as to avoid other fans loss of their “southern” card and to help anyone not around in the 1920-1930’s with their ability to say REO correctly in the future.

So there you go. You didn’t expect to get a language lesson from us here at Weaver’s but hopefully this type information makes watching The Andy Griffith Show more enjoyable because “Now You Know.”

Floyd’s Barbershop Bulletin Board & Event Calendar

The Andy Griffith Museum, featuring the late Emmett Forrest’s amazing collection of Andy Griffith artifacts, is a must-see attraction for any visit to Mount Airy, N.C. For complete updates on operating hours and other info, visit the website at AndyGriffithMuseum.org or call (336) 786-1604.

Here are upcoming events that folks have posted on Floyd’s bulletin board:

* Feb. 15: Karen Knotts performs her popular “Tied Up in Knotts” show at 7:30 p.m. at the Dogwood Center for the Performing Arts in Fremont, Mich. For more info visit www.dogwoodcenter.com.

* Mar. 5-7: 29th Annual George Lindsey/UNA Film Festival in Florence, Ala. For more more info or to submit a film, visit www.lindseyfilmfest.com and look for updates on Facebook and other social media

* April 10 & 11: The 6th Annual Mayberry-Lucy Festival in Granville, Tenn., known as “Tennessee’s Mayberry Town,” is in the planning stage, but, based on previous years, you can be assured it will be a wonderful event with shows, music, autographs, parade, cruise-in, Mayberry Squad Car Nationals Obstacle Course, and much more. Special Guests confirmed so far include Keith Thibodeaux (Johnny Paul Jason on “The Andy Griffith Show,” and Little Ricky on “I Love Lucy”), Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt in Mayberry), Dixie Griffith (daughter of Andy), Karen Knotts (daughter of Don) and Peter Ackerman (son of Elinor Donahue and famed TV producer Harry Ackerman). There will be special presentations led by authors Neal Brower and Randy Turner and an array of talented Mayberry tribute artists (including Festival Honoree Christie (Charlene) McLendon), plus Desi and Lucy tributeers, and even an Elvis. For schedule details, updates and other info, visit www.granvilletn.com.

* Apr. 15: Karen Knotts brings her “Tied Up in Knotts” show to the Amish Country Theater in Berlin, Ohio. Showtime is 7:00 p.m. For more info, visit www.amishcountrytheater.com.

* May 6-8: Mayberry author/lecturer Randy Turner hosts The Mayberry Retreat, featuring special guest Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt/Williams) and special musical guest Kentucky recording artist Mitch Barrett, at the Sauder Heritage Inn in Archbold, Ohio. There were will be a variety of talks, presentations, performances, and screenings, plus lots of time for visiting with the special guests and fellow fans–all with the intimate setting and delicious food offered by the Sauder Heritage Inn. For more info visit: www.mayberrybooks.com/mayberryretreat.

* May 30: Andy’s 100^th Birthday Bash: Bluegrass, Comedy, and Mayberry Memories at the Royal Theatre in Macon, Mo. This matinee event, hosted by the Blood Brothers chapter of TAGSRWC, features special musical guests Keota and the Andy Family Band. A presentation on Andy Griffith’s career and life by Mayberry author Randy Turner, an interview with Dixie Griffith (Andy’s daughter), and some clean, family comedy by comedian and actor Rik Roberts. Door prize drawings (don’t pull out the hat size) and refreshments will be part of the event as well. For more info, contact Blood Brother leader Johnna Clarke  for tickets at 660-413-2244.

* June 19-21 12-14: Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg returns to Scottsburg, Ind. after a year’s hiatus (NOTE: dates of the event moved by a week so make adjustments to your schedule). This will be the third time Mayberry comes to town and the organizers are planning to have Mayberry music, presentations, tribute artists, and more. The festival will be celebrating Andy Griffith’s 100th birthday, so come on out and act like somebody. They’ll ‘preciate it. Visit the website for more details at: MayberryComesToScottsburg.org.

* June 20: Professor Brower’s Lecture. Mayberry author Neal Brower kicks off his Aunt Bee-themed summer series of talks about TAGS, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C. Today’s lecture features “Wedding Bells for Aunt Bee.”  Lecture admission is included with Andy Griffith Museum admission ($10 for adults, $6 for ages 12 and under). Visit www.andygriffithmuseum.org or call (336) 786-1604.

* July 24 & 25:  14th Annual Mayberry Meetup, sponsored by TAGSRWC’s “Two Chairs, No Waiting” podcast, gathers in Mount Airy, N.C. Details will be coming as the event draws near. Start planning to spend a relaxing Mayberry weekend in Mount Airy with fellow fans.

* July 25: Professor Brower’s Lecture. In conjunction with the Mayberry Meetup, Mayberry author Neal Brower gives the second of his Aunt Bee-themed summertime talks about TAGS, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C. Today’s lecture features “Aunt Bee’s Medicine Man.”  Lecture admission is included with Andy Griffith Museum admission ($10 for adults, $6 for ages 12 and under). Visit www.andygriffithmuseum.org or call (336) 786-1604.

* Aug. 15: Professor Brower’s Lecture. Neal Brower gives the final of his three Aunt Bee-themed summertime talks about TAGS, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C. Today’s lecture features “Aunt Bee’s Romance.”  Lecture admission is included with Andy Griffith Museum admission ($10 for adults, $6 for ages 12 and under). Visit www.andygriffithmuseum.org or call (336) 786-1604.

* Sept. 21-27: 37th Annual Mayberry Days® in Mount Airy, N.C. Special Guests confirmed so far include The Dillards (featuring Rodney Dillard) in concert, Karen Knotts (daughter of Don) presenting her new show, “Tied Up in Knotts…Untied” and Bill Knotts (nephew of Don) with a presentation of his own.

Tim White & Troublesome Hollow also return with their popular mixture of comedy and bluegrass music, as does Michael Hoover with his “Memories of Elvis” show featuring Denise Glass as Patsy Cline. Also scheduled are comedy by John Floyd (The Mouth of Mayberry), concerts by Mayberry Melodies, Band of Oz, and first-timers The Cleverlys and Too Much Sylvia. Neal Brower will also be presenting his popular Professor Brower’s Lecture. Registration is also now open for the Mayberry Days Golf Tournament (aka The Emmett). Additional Special Guests and other details TBA. For tickets and complete info as plans develop, visit www.mayberrydays.org.

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**** Mayberry Crossword Solution****

In our last issue, Weaver’s had a Mayberry crossword puzzle for you to give a try. We hope you enjoyed it and don’t even need the answer-key but it is provided below. If you missed the puzzle in the last newsletter, stop scrolling now so you don’t see the solution (below) and use the following link so you can download a PRINTABLE PDF version of the puzzle here and fill it out yourself.

**** Solution ****

Okay, here’s the solution. Please let us know if you enjoyed this puzzle and perhaps we’ll do more of them in the future.

**** Word Search: A Feud is a Feud ****

Hopefully you enjoyed the crossword puzzle but just in case word searching is more your speed, here’s word search that you can give a try. All the words you’re looking for relate to The Andy Griffith Show episode “A Feud is a Feud” (S1.E9). You can download a PRINTABLE PDF version of the word search here. Then you can print it and fill it in with a pencil or pen. Weaver’s will provide the answer-key in our next issue so happy “hunting.” – “No hunt beware open and close no credit.“

*** Big Birthday Events in 2026 ****

This year is shaping up to be a BIG one for fans of The Andy Griffith Show and for Andy himself. June 1st will mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of the man who is responsible for bringing us to our hometown. As mentioned earlier in this issue, several of the events in our Event Calendar will be focusing on Andy. The great part is these events are spread out geographically from Missouri to North Carolina and places in-between.

I know you’ve already seen the event calendar, above, but it seems like a good thing to say more about these events and try to encourage you to join in on the celebration. The people you’ll meet, on top of the events themselves, will make it well worth your time. Please consider supporting and attending these amazing events so they and others like them will continue to be held.

First up is the Mayberry-I Love Lucy Festival in Granville, Tenn. The organizer, Randall Clemmons, thought it would be fitting to make the entire weekend event (April 10 & 11) a celebration of the 100th birthday of Andy Griffith. Things will be happening on the streets and during performances throughout each day the Grand Finale on Saturday being a big Birthday Party Celebration for Andy. As a side note, and not to be forgotten, the event will also honor Mayberry tribute artist Christie McLendon for her amazing contribution to keeping the Mayberry spirit alive with her portrayal of Charlene Darling at Mayberry events.

Next up on the calendar is the May 30th Centennial Celebration of Andy Griffith’s 100th Birthday in Macon, Mo. The Blood Brothers chapter has been working on this event every since their celebration of Don Knotts’ 100th birthday they held in July 2024. Chapter leader Johnna Clarke said, “how can we have a celebration of Don and not do the same for Andy.” If you’re in the Missouri area, and even if you aren’t, make plans to join very special guest Dixie Griffith (Andy’s daughter & tribute artist), comedian & Mayberry Man star Rik Roberts, and Mayberry expert & author Randy Turner. There are musical guests as well so this event will have it all. Be there for laughs, memories, music and more.

Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg returns to Scottsburg, Ind. on June 12, 13 and 14. After a year away, Mayberry returns to Scottsburg and let me tell you folks are excited. Organizer Eric Lowry and his team is hard at work to make this 3rd edition of the event the best yet. More information on Scottsburg will be coming in future issues of the Weaver’s Newsletter but you are encouraged to get your reservations and visit and be apart of the fun. The festival features Mayberry tribute artists and other special guests including cast members from The Andy Griffith Show. Other fun events include a VIP Meet & Greet dinner, a parade, a car show, variety shows headlined by the nationally recognized Mayberry Tribute Artists, Celebrity meet and greet opportunities and more. Oh, and of course the event will be Celebrating Andy Griffith’s 100th Birthday!

The 37th Annual Mayberry Days® in Mt. Airy, N.C. (Sept. 21-27:)rounds out the “BIG” celebrations of Andy’s birthday for the year. I can’t tell you much about Mayberry Days that you don’t already know but I’ll try. Mayberry Days is the granddaddy of our events and has been a go to destination for fans of The Andy Griffith Show since the early 1990’s. If you haven’t every attended, please make plans to be there because it is an amazing experience to see the downtown of Mt. Airy, N.C. turn into Mayberry for the week and especially the weekend. There will be some special mentions of Andy’s 100th birthday throughout the event but honestly, Andy is celebrated everyday in Mt. Airy so drop by the Andy Griffith Museum, the Andy Griffith Playhouse, and Andy Griffith’s Homeplace (his boyhood home) to wish him a happy birthday when you visit. “I ‘ppreciate it.“

There are other very worthy events happening so stay aware of them by checking the Event Calendar. We’ll see you there!

**** In Memoriam ****

Remembering Bruce Bilson (May 19, 1928 – January 16, 2026) 

The passing of Bruce Bilson on January 16, 2026, at the age of 97 marks the loss of a key figure from the early days of one of television’s most beloved comedies: The Andy Griffith Show.

While many fans remember the gentle humor, memorable characters, and small-town charm of Mayberry, fewer may recall the behind-the-scenes talent that helped bring those stories to life. Bruce Bilson served as the first assistant director (often called the 1st A.D.) on 58 episodes during the show’s first two seasons (1960–1962). He worked closely with director Sheldon Leonard on the pilot and helped maintain the smooth, efficient production pace that allowed the series to capture its signature warmth and timing from the very beginning.

Bilson began his career after graduating from UCLA’s film school (part of its inaugural class in 1946), followed by Air Force service. He started in editing (including on Groucho Marx’s You Bet Your Life) before moving into assistant directing on shows like The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp and then The Andy Griffith Show. His time in Mayberry proved foundational; after leaving to work on Route 66, he transitioned into full directing, helming episodes of classics such as Get Smart (for which he won a Primetime Emmy in 1968 for Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series), Hogan’s Heroes, Bewitched, The Odd Couple, Barney Miller, and many more—amassing nearly 400 directing credits across five decades.

He was part of a four-generation Hollywood family and grandfather to actress Rachel Bilson. His daughter, producer Julie Bilson Ahlberg, shared that he passed peacefully at his home in Los Angeles.

For Andy Griffith Show enthusiasts, Bruce Bilson’s contributions remind us how much the magic of Mayberry relied on skilled professionals who worked tirelessly off-camera. His steady hand in those formative seasons helped establish the gentle rhythm and heartfelt performances that continue to endear the series to new generations.

Rest in peace, Bruce Bilson. Thank you for helping bring Sheriff Andy, Opie, Aunt Bee, and Barney Fife into our homes and hearts. Mayberry—and television comedy—wouldn’t have been quite the same without you.

NOTE: I’ve done several episodes of the Two Chairs No Waiting podcast over the years featuring Mr. Bilson. If you’re interested in hearing directly from him about his time on The Andy Griffith Show, here’s a link to all his episodes. They will be in reverse order (newest to oldest) so you might want to go to page 2 and start from the beginning. -Allan

Remembering Janice McNees (May 10, 1940 – December 13, 2025)

Weaver’s would like to express our condolences to The Andy Griffith Show guest star LeRoy McNees on the passing of his wife Janice McNees. Many fans who have attended events over the last 20 years will likely remember Janice and her wonderful Mayberry spirit.

Those attending Mayberry Days likely saw Janice as the “Pickle Queen” where she proudly donned a green gown, green wig, crown, and a bouquet of pickles and waved to the parade attendees. She truly enjoyed being a part of bringing smiles and joy to those gathered along the route. She and LeRoy had a wonderful relationship that was a joy to behold. LeRoy and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Remembering Ronnie Dapo (May 8, 1952 – November 12, 2025)

It is with a heavy heart that we remember Ronnie Dapo, the talented child actor who brought one of Mayberry’s most memorable (and maddeningly mischievous) little visitors to life. Most fans of The Andy Griffith Show will forever picture Ronnie as Arnold Winkler, the ultimate spoiled city kid who rolled into Mayberry and tried (with spectacular lack of success) to teach Opie Taylor the fine art of the temper tantrum and parental manipulation.

His appearances include:

– Opie and the Spoiled Kid (S3.E21) – the episode that introduced us to Arnold’s epic “I want my bike!” meltdowns
– The Haunted House (S4.E2)
– A Deal Is a Deal (S4.E26) – as the young salve salesman
– Back to Nature (S4.E31) – one of the boys camping
– A Baby in the House (S6.E25) – football player

Ronnie played Arnold with such perfect, smug, wide-eyed entitlement that viewers loved to hate him—and that’s exactly what made his performances so brilliant. He had that rare gift of being completely insufferable while remaining totally endearing at the same time.

Beyond Mayberry

Born in Plattsburgh, New York, on May 8, 1952, Ronnie began acting at a very young age. Before and during his Mayberry days, he appeared in several other memorable projects:

– A featured role as Flip Rose on the ABC sitcom Room for One More
– Small parts in big movies including Ocean’s Eleven (1960), The Music Man (1962) opposite Ron Howard, and Disney’s Follow Me, Boys! (1966)
– Guest spots on shows like The New Phil Silvers Show and Kisses for My President

Ronnie chose to step away from acting as a young teenager — around age 14 — and later said he simply “gave up” on the business. He went on to live a very full and grounded life outside the spotlight. He worked as a touring musician, ran a printing press, did steel framing work, and eventually retired at age 60.

For many years he made his home in Denver, Colorado, with his wife of more than 54 years.

A Lasting Mayberry Memory

While Ronnie never became one of the most frequent Mayberry reunion guests, he did make very special appearances at **Mayberry Days** in 2015 and 2016 where fans finally got to meet the real person behind the legendary spoiled kid. Those who met him described him as warm, kind, and the complete opposite of his most famous character.

Ronnie Dapo gave us one of the show’s most deliciously watchable guest characters — a perfect little slice of “outsider meets Mayberry” comedy that still makes us laugh more than 60 years later.

We thank him for the memories, the tantrums, and the pure joy he brought to our favorite small town. Rest in peace, Ronnie.

Mayberry will always remember Arnold Winkler…and the man who played him.**

**** News of Cast & Crew ****

Ron Howard (Opie) is currently working on a film project called “Alone at Dawn,” a military drama based on the 2019 book. This Amazon MGM Studios-backed feature, which he is directing, began filming in Hungary in early November 2025 and has been extended into 2026. The production is currently filming in the Budapest area with filming scheduled to wrap on February 11, 2026. An anticipated release in late 2026 or early 2027 is expected.

We can all go ahead and wish Ron a happy birthday since he will celebrate the anniversary of his birth on March 1st (before we next publish our newsletter). Happy 72nd birthday to Ron Howard and THANK you for all the entertainment you have provided us all throughout your life.

Clint Howard (Leon) has been focusing on fan engagements of late. He attended Cajun Con in Gonzales, Louisiana, on December 6, 2025 and is confirmed to attend the “For the Love of Horror” convention at Bowlers Exhibition Centre in Manchester, UK, on April 18-19, 2026. This event, announced in late January 2026, features Clint alongside other horror genre guests, with tickets available for meet-and-greets. Maybe “Leon” will have time to visit Malcolm Merriweather in Heckmondwike, Yorkshire while he’s over in the UK.

Margaret Kerry (Bess Muggins and Helen Scobey) continues to participate in autograph and memorabilia sales, including signed photos and Funko Pop! figures related to her Tinker Bell legacy. Margaret is confirmed as a guest at Animate! Orlando, a 3-day Festival of Fandom at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, on August 14-16, 2026. She will appear all three days for meet-and-greets, photos, and autographs; the announcement was made on December 29, 2025.

Margaret posted on her personal Facebook page, “So many people have sent me friend requests on my Facebook page – Margaret Kerry – and I am limited to only 5,000 people that I can have at any one time. However, it (followers) is unlimited on my business Facebook page, Tinker Bell Talks. I will try to share my messages there as well as sharing some of the products we are offering on my website Tinkerbelltalks.com).” So, follow Margaret to stay up-to-date on all she’s doing directly from her.

Happy 5th Anniversary to love birds Margaret and husband Robert “Bob” Boeke who celebrate their anniversary on February 14th.

Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt/Williams) recently shared his eldest brother passed away after battling a long illness. Weaver’s would like to express condolences for Dennis and the entire family from all of us in the Mayberry community. Dennis has such a wonderful spirit and passings are always unexpected so we want him to know that we all have prayers for all impacted.

Dennis will be joining fans at the Mayberry – I Love Lucy Festival (April  10  &  11, 2026) in Granville, Tenn. so make plans to attend and see him and…….

Keith Thibodeaux (Johnny Paul) will also be attending the Mayberry – I Love Lucy Festival so that’s your chance to meet both him and Dennis. Keith continues to serve as Executive Director of Ballet Magnificat!, the Christian ballet company he co-founded with his wife Kathy in 1986. The ballet company has locations in Jackson, Miss. and in Brazil so the Thibodeaux’s travel between locations fairly often. Keith described a late January flight to Brazil as a trip to “The Outer Limits” (a Twilight Zone type series for those that don’t know the reference).

The flight had mechanical issues before take off, but after passengers had boarded, that cause them to return to the gate…okay, it’s fixed…..no, broken again….okay, it’s fixed…..nope, broken…..pilots can’t fly because they’ve been in on duty too long….new pilots….repeat all that like Groundhog Day. Their flight, normally a 10 hour flight, turned into a 50 hour flight to Curitiba Brazil. Sounds like a good episode of a sitcom but we’re certainly sorry he and Kathy had to live through it.

Rodney Dillard (guitar playing Darling boy) has been active on The Dillards Facebook page sharing some of the amazing memories the band has created over the years. The memories include concert posters, rare live concert recordings, concert ticket stubs (Elton John & The Dillards ticket was $4.50!), photos from the set of The Andy Griffith Show and so much more. Head over to the page and follow so you can see these amazing treasures.

Rodney also announced on the mentioned Facebook page that a “Mayberry Memories” Concert performed by The Dillards will be held the Greensburg Community High School in Greensburg, Ind. on March 27 · 7:00 pm EDT. Pre-sale tickets can be purchased through EventBright for $12.50. Fans will absolutely love their live stage show complete with a dedicated Q&A about The Andy Griffith Show. Don’t miss it.

 Elinor Donahue (Ellie Walker) is doing well and we received this report from her son, Peter K. Ackerman (author of “Mom, Dad, Me, and Classic TV“),

From the Pharmacy

Amy Ackerman, granddaughter to Elinor Donahue who played Ellie Walker on the first season of TAGS, is set to give birth this summer to her first child. Amy’s parents, Marie, and Elinor’s son Peter K. Ackerman are excited about becoming grandparents. The birth will also result in making Peter’s mom a great-grandmother.  Feel free to keep everyone (including Amy’s husband Jordan) in your prayers!

Respectfully Submitted by…
   Miss Ellie’s Boy, Peter K. Ackerman (author of “Mom, Dad, Me, and Classic TV“)

Congratulations to Elinor on the coming great grandbaby! Thank you, Peter, for sharing news from the Pharmacy with us. Congratulations to Peter on his coming grandbaby, as well.

That’s all the cast & crew news Weaver’s has been able to dig up for Jan/Feb issue. If you come across cast news between issues, Weaver’s would love for you to share it with us. You would be given credit as a “roving reporter,” like Peter Ackerman. Otherwise, Weaver’s will continue to comb the web for News of Cast & Crew and do the best we can to find the news fit to “print.”

****Chapter News ****

Blood Brothers (Macon, Mo.) met Sunday, February 1 for their winter soup luncheon.  After a delicious potluck of various options, Johnna Clarke gave a progress report on the upcoming celebration for Andy’s 100th birthday.  

The Blood Brothers chapter in cooperation with Carousel Productions and Maples Repertory Theatre will host a birthday party entitled “Andy’s 100th Birthday Bash: Bluegrass, Comedy, and Mayberry Memories” at the Royal Theatre in Macon, Missouri on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The afternoon will feature local favorite acoustic band, Keota, and the Andy Family Band with tribute artists and special guests.  Comedian Rik Roberts will perform immediately following the Mayberry music.  Intermission will offer cookies and drink which are included in the $30 general admission tickets.  Next Randy Turner, Mayberry author and expert, will give an audio/visual presentation about the life and career of Andy Griffith. Then Randy will interview Dixie Griffith, Andy’s daughter, with Dixie sharing glimpses of her life growing up with a famous dad.  The event will conclude with a Meet and Greet.  

The Mayberry Chapter (Knoxville, Tenn.) participated in the Karns Christmas parade in Knoxville on Dec. 6. Mark Cawood brought his 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 squad car as our parade entry. The parade lined up at the Ingles Shopping Center on Western Avenue at 8:00 a.m. and the parade started at 9:00 a.m. There was a large crowd to watch over 100 parade entries. Spiderman even made an appearance! A big thanks to Mark for bringing his car.

The January 2026 Mayberry Chapter newsletter called The Mayberry Minutes was published the end of January.  Their newsletter is available for $20 for two or three 16 page issues per year or $10 for a pdf version emailed to you. If you enjoy getting your Mayberry news on paper, or as a pdf, The Mayberry Minutes is a great option for you. For more info, contact Dennis at KingOfMayberry@comcast.net. It’s a great newsletter and always a pleasure to find in the mail.

The Mayberry Cronies (Sebring, OH and other places)  are starting off the year working hard in their Labs, creating unique items for this year’s upcoming Mayberry events. We wish everyone a Happy start to the New Year. Oh, we may be diversifying into “ I Love Lucy” items too! In honor of Keith Thibodeaux of course.

Colorado Fishin’ Hole Whistlers (Colorado Springs, Colo.) chapter had 25 residents of Brookdale Retirement Center in Colorado Springs gather for a “Mayberry Meetup” in early November 2-25.  The chapter hosted this inaugural event was hosted and those gathered watched  the episode “Man in a Hurry” which was a big hit.

Not a specific chapter report but for certain a report from TAGSRWC member Penny Franey from Indiana with a bit of a follow up to an article in the Nov/Dec 2025 issue of our newsletter.

My folks moved to Cusseta, Ga. a few years ago and I was visiting them in August when I saw the Facebook post about Justin Mangum purchasing the chairs from Floyd’s. As Smiths Station, Ala. is less than 30 minutes away from Cusseta, I messaged him and managed a visit the next day before heading home to Indiana.

I found Justin to be a personable young man who treats folks who enter his shop like neighbors. He has devoted a portion of his shop exclusively to memorabilia from Floyd’s, and welcomes visitors whether they come in simply for a photo in the chairs, or to get their hair cut.

I’ve been promising myself I would downsize.  When I got home, I sorted thru some of my Mayberry belongings. When I returned to visit my parents, Mom and I made a trip over to Smiths Station and a delivery was made. 

Just as on my first visit, I was welcomed with that classic southern hospitality that exemplifies the Mayberry Spirit, showing Smiths Station to be a friendly town and Justin Mangum to be a friendly barber. 

Next time you are in the eastern part of Alabama, not far from Columbus, Ga., and have a little time, stop by and meet a personable young man named Justin. When you walk thru the door of Justin’s Barbershop it may seem a bit familiar….and friendly. After all, Smiths Station, much like Mayberry, is a friendly town. 

Oh, and tell Justin that Penny, the Indiana Fun Girl, sent ya!! 

Please submit an official report from your chapter for inclusion in the Mar/Apr 2026 issue of Weaver’s Newsletter. Weaver’s encourages all TAGSRWC chapters to email in their reports (Please add Subject: Newsletter to your email) so we can share your fun with others .

**** Chapter Update ****

Our total number of chapters started since TAGSRWC was founded in 1979 has increased by 1 since our last issue with the total number of chapters now at 1,494! It is great to report a new chapter three newsletters in a row and TAGSRWC is happy to welcome our newest chapter:

Chapter Name	Location
The Fun Girls	Greenville, S.C.

**** Mayberry on the Web ****

The iMayberry Community

This TAGSRWC online group is organized and overseen by webmaster Allan “Floyd” Newsome with most of the actual work begin done by Keith “Col. Harvey” Brown of the Trivial Trivialities chapter (Pawleys Island, S.C.). You can check out the fun of this online community and sign up for free at: http://imayberrycommunity.com.

The iMayberry Community complements our other online activities, including our main www.imayberry.com page, podcasts, Facebook pages, online newsletters (such as The Weaver’s Newsletter), weaversdepartmentstore.com and chat rooms.

Mayberry Podcast

“Two  Chairs, No Waiting” is our weekly podcast of TAGS news, interviews and pretty much whatever’s happening in and around Mayberry. It’s hosted by Allan Newsome.

There’s a new episode every Tuesday (and you can watch and listen during live recording of the show on Monday evenings at 8pm ET @ live.twochairsnowaiting.com ). As of this week, there have been 876 episodes of Two Chairs since Allan launched the podcast over 17 years ago, in October 2008. Past episodes are in an online Archives in case you want to listen to or view the YouTube video installments you’ve missed. We’re sure you can find at least a few episodes you’d enjoy out of all those that are available. OH….they are all FREE!

Take some time to look around the main Mayberry Podcasts (https://iMayberry.com/podcaasts) website for various other links, including one for another outstanding Mayberry-related podcast: “Burke on Mayberry“ (hosted by TAGSRWC’s Kevin Burke since 2008). There are also links for the Mayberry Devotional hosted by Brian Rose and the Mayberry Bible Study Podcast that are no longer being produced but the content remains “evergreen.”

Facebook

TAGSRWC’s official page on Facebook  has ~251,000 Followers. You can find us at www.facebook.com/tagsrwc. If you haven’t already dropped by the page, we hope you’ll check it out sometime when you have the chance. We invite you to become a TAGSRWC Facebook Friend!

Two Chairs No Waiting podcast also has a Facebook page and group where you can follow along with the podcast and interact with fans.

We also have links in our “Liked by this Page” section to the pages (in the “About” section) of several TAGSRWC chapters on Facebook, as well as to Facebook pages for Mayberry Days,®  the Andy Griffith Museum, TAGS actors and others. Click “See All” to check out all the links.

Even Ben Weaver has his own Facebook page at www.facebook.com/weaversdepartmentstore. It features all the latest in Mayberry items and merchandise news. Weaver’s is also on X (Twitter) so follow Weaver’s there if you’re on X.

Check out the interview Two Chairs No Waiting did with Dixie Griffith, Andy’s daughter. It’s a two part interview. Part 1 is below and you can click HERE for part 2.

**** Post Note ****

Weaver’s Department Store hopes you enjoyed this issue of our newsletter. The Weaver’s team, Jan and Allan, work to find or create fun Mayberry products and information to share with you. If you run across something interesting, email me at floyd@iMayberry.com with the subject Weaver’s Newsletter Info so I don’t miss your e-mail.

Between issues of the Weaver’s Newsletter, you can keep up with all that’s going on in and around Mayberry by being part of the daily Who’s Been Messin’ Up the Bulletin Board? (aka “WBMUTBB?”) Digest. It’s free and you can sign up for that list by going to WBMUTBB.com and choosing the “Join/Subscribe/Unsubscribe” link.

Consider joining the FREE WBMUTBB Facebook Group with links to more WBMUTBB chapter fun. The Facebook group is private and administered by me (Allan) so I hope that makes you feel better about joining in on the fun. It’s made up of TAGS fans only and I do my best to make sure things are fun for all…both on the WBMUTBB Digest emails and the WBMUTBB Facebook group.

The next issue of our Weaver’s Newsletter will be published in Mar/Apr 2026 . Please make sure you’re subscribed to the newsletter so you don’t miss an issue when it publishes. Stay in touch with things going on around Mayberry by listening to/watching the Two Chairs No Waiting podcast. See you next time!

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