An Online newsletter of
“The Andy Griffith Show” Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC)
Welcome to the Weaver’s Newsletter November 2024 edition!
(If you received the Newsletter by email and are unable to see the images & videos, or if it seems like thing are missing, please go to this link to make sure you aren’t missing anything.)
This is the sixth and final issue of Weaver’s Newsletter for 2024 and because it is Christmas shopping time, we’ll be focusing a bit more on items we have for sale at Weaver’s that would make you or the Mayberry fan in your life happy this holiday season. Late September and early October are happening times for fans of The Andy Griffith Show.
Don’t feel like it’s going to be just one be commercial. We have reports about the 35th Annual Mayberry Days held in Mount Airy, North Carolina back on September 22nd to 29th as well as the 17th Mayberry Cruise that occurred October 26th thru 31st. Both were BIG and a great time was had by all who were able to attend.
If you don’t like that, we’ll also have a new puzzle that we hope you’ll enjoy and the trivia questions from the Qualifying Round of the World Championship of Mayberry Trivia held during the above mentioned Mayberry Days 2024. So, let’s get started!
**** Note from “Mrs. Weaver” ****
Many of you may not know that Weaver’s is a “mom & pop” small business that is run from the home of “Mrs. Weaver” (Jan) and here husband (Allan/me). Below is a chance to see Mrs. Weaver and a portion of the room in our home containing all the items available at Weaver’s. If you have ordered anything from our store in the last several years, it was packaged and shipped by the lady you see and from the room shown. Please take about a minute and a half to check out what Mrs. Weaver has to show you.
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:
* December 7: A special edition of Professor Brower’s Lecture called an Old-Fashioned Mayberry Christmas. Join Mayberry author Neal Brower for this special Christmas focused lecture, and free refreshments, all sponsored by the “Time with Jesus is Time Well Spent” organization, in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C. The lecture features the episode “Christmas Story” starting at 2 p.m. Lecture admission is free for this presentation thanks to the sponsor. You are encouraged to tour the Andy Griffith Museum during your visit. Admission to museum is $10 for adults, $6 for ages 12 and under. Visit www.andygriffithmuseum.org or call (336) 786-1604.
***
2025
* Feb. 27-Mar. 1: 28th Annual George Lindsey UNA Film Festival in Florence, Ala. For more more info or to submit a film, visit www.lindseyfilmfest.com.
* April 11 & 12: Mayberry-I Love Lucy Festival in Granville, Tenn., known as “Tennessee’s Mayberry Town.” Events begin on Friday and feature dinner theater performances, street shows, stage shows, trivia, Mayberry and Lucy & Desi tribute artists, Mayberry squad cars, Mayberry author Randy Turner‘s presentation, and more! Visit granvilletn.com/mayberry-lucy-days or call (931) 653-4151 for tickets and information.
* May 7-9: Mayberry author/lecturer Randy Turner hosts The Mayberry Retreat, featuring special guest Dixie Griffith (daughter of Andy) and special musical guest Tim White (host of “Song of the Mountains” on PBS), 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.
* June 14: Professor Brower’s Lecture. Mayberry author Neal Brower kicks off his three-lecture Officer Fife-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 “Barney Gets His 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.
* July 18 & 19: 13th Annual…err…the 2025 Mayberry Meetup (caution, that’s what it is…we’re just being cautious), sponsored by TAGSRWC’s “Two Chairs, No Waiting” podcast, gathers in Mount Airy, N.C. Details will be coming as the new year draws near, so start planning to spend a relaxing Mayberry weekend in Mt. Airy with fellow fans. We’ll have rabbits’ feet and other good luck charms on hand to ward off bad omens related to the number of years this event has been occurring.
* July 19: Professor Brower’s Lecture. In conjunction with the Mayberry Meetup, Mayberry author Neal Brower gives the second of his three Officer Fife-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 “Lawman Barney.” 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. 16: Professor Brower’s Lecture. Andy comes to Barney’s rescue one more time when Neal Brower gives the final of his three Officer Fife-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 “Sheriff Barney.” 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. 22-28: 36th Annual Mayberry Days® in Mount Airy, N.C. Full details TBA, but tickets to some portions of the weekend are already available–including for The Emmett Golf Tournament (followed by the Mayberry Days® Dinner & Entertainment, which is also available as a separate ticket); concerts by Rodney Dillard and The Dillards, The Bellamy Brothers, Michael Hoover’s “Memories of Elvis” with Patsy Cline” by Denise Glass, and Mayberry Melodies (including a Gospel show); a presentation by Karen Knotts; comedy by John Floyd (aka The Mouth of Mayberry); and Colonel Tim’s Talent Time. For tickets and more info about the 2025 festival, visit www.mayberrydays.org.
2025 Mayberry Wall Calendar – $17.00
Weaver’s is happy to bring fans a Mayberry calendar for 2025!
There have been wall calendars for The Andy Griffith Show for many years and all of us have enjoyed them. Sadly, the licensee who made those calendars decided to stop making them after 2024 but thankfully Mr. Weaver wanted to ensure the yearly fun continued.
Weaver’s reached out to a local artist, Christina Green and asked if she might be able to create artwork related to our hometown and the result is a sight to behold.
Plan your year in Mayberry! Start each month with a different landmark around Mayberry done in a watercolor art style.
Each month fills a full two page opening with an image at the top and calendar page on the bottom. Jot down plans and notes. Each month points out cast member birthdays, special occasions and events. The cover features a wonderful Mayberry “cityscape” and a winter wonderland version of the same is seen for the month of December.
Hang on a wall in your home, office or at school for a full year of planning.
Printed on glossy paper stock. Measures 11″ x 8.5″ when closed, 11″ x 17″ when open.
Mayberry Cityscape Collection – $13.00-$26.00
Each item features original artwork of the buildings and locations you would see walking around the town of Mayberry capturing both the most recognizable and the more nuanced sites.
The artwork has been created exclusively for Weaver’s by Huntsville artist, Christina Green. There are several products to choose from using this design to include t-shirts, a tote bag, a mug, the 2025 calendar, and a Christmas ornament. The folks here at Weaver’s love being able to bring you these new, and fun, Mayberry items.
Great for yourself or gifts for the Mayberry fans in your life.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Wooden Sign – $20.00
Crafted of solid wood, these signs are easy to hang anywhere. Inspire your visitors by hanging it on your front door, hang on the wall of any room or even give it a memorable gift!
This high-quality home décor is intentionally PERFECTLY IMPERFECT and handcrafted from solid rustic pine by the coast in New England. PLEASE note that your order may vary slightly from photo shown as each sign includes various rustic characteristics unique to that particular sign. These “imperfections” are intended to add charm and are NOT DEFECTS.
“Christmas, Ha!”
Product details • Made in United States • Weight: 13.6 oz (385.55 g) • Measures 6”H x 11”W x 1”D
**** Mayberry Days 2024 ****
Mayberry Days 2024 was everything you’d expect from a town that’s proud to live in its nostalgia. Every year, fans of “The Andy Griffith Show” gather in Mount Airy, North Carolina, to celebrate all things Mayberry, and this year was no exception. As soon as you entered the town, the small-town vibe hits you like a warm hug. The streets were lined with locals and visitors alike, all smiling and laughing like they’d known each other for years.
Mayberry Days was shaping up to be just as picture-perfect as in previous years, but Mother Nature had other plans. Hurricane Helene, a major storm that had been swirling off the coast for weeks, threw a bit of a wrench into the event. As the storm made landfall on the Florida Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm late in the evening of Thursday September 26, 2024 of Mayberry Days weekend, it brought heavy rains and strong winds to North Carolina, with Mount Airy feeling some of the effects.
In the days leading up to the festival, the organizers were glued to weather updates, trying to figure out how much of the event could go on as planned. While Mount Airy wasn’t hit directly, the outer bands of the hurricane made the weekend soggier than usual. The Emmett Golf Tournament was scheduled to tee off at noon on Thursday and while it was raining off and on, there was no danger of lightning so the tournament when off without a hitch. Golfers rolled up their sleeves, and their pant legs, and played their rounds.
The special guests welcomed the golfers and were waiting on them in the Cross Creek Country Club when the golfing wrapped up. Those attending the dinner following The Emmett were able to have a great meal, having access to the special guests for autographs, and were entertained by Michael Hoover (Memories of Elvis) and Denise Glass (Patsy Cline). It was a great evening and a wonderful way to top off the day.
This years special guests included two first time guests, Margaret Teele (Agnes Jean Parker) and Peter Ackerman (son of Elinor Donahue). No less special are returning guests Rodney Dillard (guitar playing Darling boy), Ronnie Schell (Jim Martin /Bernie the furrier/Duke Slater), Keith Thibodeaux (Johnny Paul Jason), Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt), Karen Knotts (Don Knotts’ Daughter/Opie’s Receptionist in “Return to Mayberry”), Bettina Linke (Widow of TAGS Producer Richard O. Linke), Dan Roebuck (Cliff Lewis on Matlock), Dick Atkins (Producer “Murder in Coweta County”), and Dreama Denver (Widow of Bob Denver/Dud Wash). There were many other guests and Mayberry tribute artists who entertained and performed throughout Mayberry Days.
Some outdoor events on Friday morning were impacted by the Helene related wind and rain, but the organizers (Surry Arts Council) quickly shifted gears, moving things indoors where they could. The Andy Griffith Show trivia contest, for instance, was packed into The Andy Griffith Museum Theater to give people a dry place to gather and compete. The room was standing room only but the World Championship of Mayberry Trivia must go on.
The competition was a close one with past champion Mike Jones once again taking the title with last year’s champion, Jim Sherrill, coming in a very close second. Overall, this year’s contest may have been one of the tightest competitions in years. One fun thing to note, in the final two rounds of the trivia championship (played like Scholar Bowl or Jeopardy) there was not one incorrect answer provided by whomever buzzed in first to have a chance to answer so no one ever had a negative score.
The weather cleared by early afternoon on Friday and it was a perfect fall weekend—the kind where the air’s crisp but not cold, and the leaves are wet and just starting to turn. Main Street looked straight out of an old postcard, with shop windows decorated in Mayberry-themed displays, and folks dressed up as characters from the show. You couldn’t walk five feet without seeing a Barney Fife. And, of course, the vintage Mayberry squad cars were seen everywhere with their shiny black-and-white paint jobs reflecting the autumn sunlight.
The Mayberry Days parade was one of the highlights, as always. Fans lined the streets to cheer for antique trucks with music and candy flying from the beds, classic cars with special guests greeting the crowd, and Mayberry tribute artists walking down the road to visit and take photos with fans. There was even a group of little kids walking by with fishing poles slung over their shoulders, imitating Opie on his way to the fishin’ hole. The grand marshal this year was cast member Margaret Teele from the episode “A Visit to Barney Fife” with the crowd roaring when she and the other guests rolled by, smiling and waving like they were the mayor of the friendliest town in America.
Throughout the day, you could wander between different events. The Mayberry Idle talent competitions had its fair share of singing, comedy routines. There were kids doing their best Ernest T. Bass impression, tossing “rocks” (okay, they were foam) through pretend windows, and folks throwing hay in the “Goober Says Hay” Bale Toss outside the Arts Center. More fun was had by folks at the Mayberry Days Horseshoe Tournament, the Chester Jones Checkers Tournament for kids & adults, whistling competitions, and so much more. The smiles and the laughs were not hard to find.
Of course, there was plenty of time to just kick back and enjoy the simpler pleasures. You could grab a bottle of Cheerwine, sit on a bench, and people-watch. Sadly, due to power outages on parts of Main Street the Snappy Lunch with it’s famous pork chop sandwich was closed as was Floyd’s Barber Shop, but you could look in through the window and enjoy the view. And if you really wanted to dive into the Mayberry spirit, there were guided squad car tours of Mount Airy, showing you where Andy Griffith grew up and how his hometown inspired the fictional town of Mayberry.
As the sun started to set on Saturday, it was time for Colonel Tim’s Talent Time, a fan favorite at Mayberry Days. It’s a one-of-a-kind variety show featuring performances from special guests, local and national entertainers, and especially the Mayberry Tribute Artists. The whole evening is packed with Mayberry-themed fun and entertainment, all happening on the stage of the Andy Griffith Playhouse.
Mayberry Days 2024 wasn’t just about the show—it was about that feeling of community, simplicity, and warmth that seems to have faded in our fast-paced world. For one weekend, everyone was reminded that even though Mayberry is fictional, the values it represented—kindness, neighborliness, and humor—still resonate.
As people headed home, you could hear them saying, “See you next year,” like they were already counting down the days to Mayberry Days 2025.
Colonel Harvey’s Indian Elixir Flask – $9.00
Weaver’s has been working with traveling salesman, Colonel Harvey, to bring you this stainless steel hip flask branded with the labeling for the Colonel’s elixir. The elixir is sold separately at your favorite local “tonic” store but you can enjoy displaying the flask on your shelves. Otis told Mr. Weaver that he’d take two.
You may not need to purchase the actual elixir unless you feeling tired and run down. Dragging yourself out of bed in the morning or feel that life seem hardly worth living. Then friends, you may need the elixir. Otherwise, this flask may lift your spirit by at least 85%.
Flask comes with a funnel to aid in filling with your choice of tonic.
Size: 4.8″ x 3.7″ – 8 oz. – Stainless Steel
NOTE: Label may not survive in high quality if it gets very wet. (It may smear or become stained.)
Books, Caps, Key Chains, Purses
Weaver’s has a large selection of gifts for any fan of The Andy Griffith Show.
There is a wide selection of Mayberry related books. Everything from puzzle books to travel guides. Browse around our book section.
Key Chains, purses, and bracelets make create accessories. If you’re looking for thing to dress up your Mayberry style, check out the Accessory section of our store.
There are several different caps, and even Goober beanies, to fit any head. See if you can find a “lid” for your head in the Caps and Goober Beanies section.
Mayberry Fun for the Kitchen – $7.00-$28.oo
Weaver’s has teamed up with Aunt Been in an attempt to make fun things for the kitchen that bring Mayberry into the cooking process.
If you’re looking for decoration, a Mayberry Tea Towel is for you. You can also get a wooden spoon that can be used to keep Briscoe and the boys in line.
If you eat pizza, the Mayberry Axes Pizza Cutter will help you keep any old tramps out of the kitchen or can be used in a pinch to bust up a still all while slicing up a pizza.
Our two newest additions are a whisk like Aunt Bee would use to ensure batter is “smooth, smooth, smooth” and an ice cream scoop like Miss Ellie would use to get Opie his free ice cream. Drop by the Kitchen section and check it out.
**** Mayberry Cruise 2024 ****
The seventeenth Cruise to Mayberry aboard the Carnival Sunshine was an event to behold.
What? You didn’t know their was a Mayberry cruise? There has been a Cruise to Mayberry every year since 2006 with the exception of the “covid” years of 2020 and 2021 when cruising was pretty much cancelled. So, 17 times we’ve sailed off to Mayberry together.
This year’s cruise was five days long, and we went to Princess Cays and Nassau, Bahamas, leaving from Charleston, South Carolina. Now, not all 3,002 guests on the Carnival Sunshine were part of the Mayberry Cruise. The Mayberry part was private and included about 150 guests. To join the private fun, you had to book through All About Cruises, Inc. in Burlington, North Carolina. They organize all the Mayberry activities, performers, and special spots on the ship.
The fun started on Saturday, October 26th, when we boarded the Sunshine and sailed away from Charleston. Our special guest was Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt), along with musical guests Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass. And of course, we had our amazing Mayberry tribute artists: Barney & Thelma Lou (Ronnie & Elease Felker), Floyd (Allan Newsome), Charlene (Christie McLendon), and Otis (Norm Schultz). Mike McLendon (Christie’s husband) also joined in and played a few different roles. And to top it off, we had Elvis tribute artist Wayne Euliss (Sharon’s husband).
People often ask, “What does Mayberry have to do with a cruise?” It’s a fair question, but after seventeen cruises, I have an answer. In Mayberry, people hang out with friends and family, chat, eat, and laugh together. On a cruise, we do the same thing! It’s a chance to slow down, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.
On the first day, we had a meet and greet to catch up with old friends and make new ones. Mayberry folks are the best, and getting to know them is a great way to kick off the trip.
Sunday was a day at sea, so we had a full schedule. We started with a Mayberry Bible Study focused on the episode “Opie’s Newspaper.” Then we had a Mayberry trivia contest, watched episodes featuring Dennis Rush, and had a fantastic interview with him. He shared wonderful stories about his time on The Andy Griffith Show and his acting career. If you missed it, you can check out the Two Chairs No Waiting podcast episode featuring Dennis to get a feel for what you missed.
In Nassau on Monday, we did the usual tourist stuff. But in the evening, we had a special treat: an amazing bluegrass group called Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass. They were fantastic and had everyone tapping their toes.
Tuesday daytime was spent at Carnival’s private beach, Princess Cays. But the evening belonged to “the king”! We had a rocking Elvis tribute performance by Wayne Euliss. The ladies loved it!
Wednesday was our last day at sea, so we packed in the Mayberry fun. We had a Whistling Contest for The Andy Griffith Show Theme, watched more episodes with Dennis, and finished with the Mayberry Variety Show. It was an hour and a half of music, comedy, and good times.
Now, here’s the big news. Cruise to Mayberry 17 was supposed to be the last one. But the Mayberry spirit took hold, and Sharon decided she couldn’t end it. So, get ready for Cruise to Mayberry 18 in 2025!
We’ll be sailing on the Carnival Valor from New Orleans, October 27th to November 1st. It’s a 5-day Western Caribbean cruise to Cozumel and the Yucatán. Dennis Rush and Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass will be back, along with some of the Mayberry tribute artists.
Keep an eye out for the flyer with the rates, or check the Mayberry Cruise Facebook page (Facebook.com/MayberryCruise) for updates. And remember, to be part of the Mayberry Cruise fun, you have to book through All About Cruises, Inc. Phone: (336)538-4926
Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!
Mayberry USA Zip Up Fleece Jackets – $35.oo
These great looking and feeling fleece zip front jackets will show your Mayberry spirit throughout the cold months.
The front left displays an American flag with the word “Mayberry” above and “USA” below. You can keep your hands warm or store your ticket book using the two zipper pockets.
Crewneck: 100% Polyester
Color: Red – trimmed in Navy or Charcoal Gray trimmed in Black
Mayberry Orange or Mayberry Blue Bracelet
– $8.oo
These bracelets coordinate great with the “Checkpoint Chickie” safe purse.
They look great everyday with jeans or dress up any outfit for any occasion. Show your Mayberry spirit with these beautiful bracelets.
Purchased separately $8 each
Stretchy bracelet – stretches to fit most wrist. 10mm beads
Mayberry Cityscape Ornament & Camp Mug
– $13.oo-$16.00
Mayberry Christmas fun for your tree. This round acrylic ornament features original artwork of the Mayberry Cityscape. It is made up of sites you would see walking around Mayberry.
The 11oz white enamel camp mug features the same original artwork of the buildings and locations you would see walking around the town of Mayberry as the ornament. The scene captures both the most recognizable and the more nuanced sites. Artwork created exclusively for Weaver’s by local Huntsville artist, Christina Green.
A camp mug is made of steel with a practical handle all coated with hard wearing enamel. It resists stains and scratches and is easy to clean (handwash only).
It works as both mug and small bowl, making it the perfect companion for a stay in the wild when looking for wild pheasant to cook over a fire started pioneer-style (which is bound to be hotter than a than fire started from just ordinary matches).
Size: 3.5” diameter and 3.25” height
*** Mayberry Rebus Puzzles ***
Weaver’s thought it would be fun to try a few Rebus puzzles related to The Andy Griffith Show. A “rebus” is a puzzle that uses pictures, letters, or symbols to represent a word or phrase. The word “rebus” comes from the Latin word rebus, which means “by things.” Floyd provided that definition and said he learned rebus from his Latin teacher in barber college.
Now that you have the hang of it, here are 4 puzzles for you to solve.
Feel free to add what you think the solution to the puzzles are in the comments on the website post for this issue of Weaver’s Newsletter (bottom of the page).
We’ll post the correct answers in the January issue of Weaver’s Newsletter so enjoy trying to solve them and please let us know if you liked these and maybe we can create more in the future.
Beehaving Wooden Cutting Board – $22.00
This bamboo cutting board will serve any kitchen well for years to come.
Not only is it functional it will look great on the counter top or hanging on the wall.
Etched into the wood is the phrase “Land sakes alive! …If it wasn’t for me, this house wouldn’t be fit to live in!” along with a wonderful lady you may think you know.
Bamboo construction with the dimensions of 13 1/2″ x 7″
Made in the United States
Mayberry Four Coaster Set – $28.00
These four Mayberry stone coasters actually absorb condensation from your drink!
The coasters are digitally printed here in the USA with hand painted artwork. The back of each coaster has cork, safe for any surface.
The Art is heat & water resistant for top absorption!
Design of each coaster:
1 – Sheriff badge
1 – Meet me at Fishin’ hole
1 – Truck / barber stuff / pickles / baseball / beanie / jug
1 – Squad car / jail keys / badge / pistol
Size: Each coaster is a 4.25″ Square with cork backing
Sold only as a 4 piece set.
****News of Cast & Crew ****
Weaver’s doesn’t have a lot of news from the cast & crew this time so we’ll just give you a few highlights.
Ron Howard’s (Opie) live action movie “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000) starring Jim Carrey has once again returned to top 10 VOD lists. And with a vengeance as “How the Grinch” is #1 on iTunes (which ranks by transactions) but even more impressively #7 at Fandango. Ron is fairly active on the Instagram social media service and often posts photos of his travels and life events. Here’s the link to his Instagram account so you can keep up with him yourself.
Margaret Kerry (Bess Muggins and Helen Scobey) recently celebrated her 95th Birthday (November 11th) at Disneyland in California riding Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. I would say she has recovered well from the fractured hip she experienced earlier in 2024. If you’d like to smile, watch the video of Margaret and her friend Christy Vaca riding this coaster. Christy commented about the experience saying, “I feel so Lucky that we got to take Margaret on this super fun ride! She never got to play as a child or an adult. She is still always working. She had a big speech yesterday and today had an interview for local news!!! We all LOVE Margaret!!”
Dennis Rush (Howie Pruitt/Williams) and his wonderful wife Judy joined the Mayberry fans traveling on the 17th Cruise to Mayberry, as reported in this issue. The Rushes had a wonderful time on the cruise but Dennis reported about some slight travel issues on their return trip to San Diego. “It was too good to be true…. our American flight was a little late leaving Charleston to Charlotte. The flight from Charlotte to San Diego “left A LITTLE EARLY.” Of course, when we arrived in Charlotte we were at the opposite end of the airport. We got to the gate as quick as we could. Being just 5 minutes late to the gate turned into a 3 hour delay!! Has anyone ever hear of a plane leavings EARLY??? Oh well, it was a great trip!” We’re sorry for the travel woes but so glad the Rushes went cruising with the Mayberry folks and had a great time.
Rodney Dillard (guitar playing Darling boy) joined John McEuen and the Circle Band at the Bartlett Performing Arts and Conference Center in Bartlett, Tenn. on November 16th and The Franklin Theater in Franklin, Tenn. on November 17th. Founding member of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and celebrated banjo player John McEuen was joined by his special guest (and life-long friend) Rodney Dillard for a spectacular night highlighting the lasting legacy of The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Will the Circle Be Unbroken album. Rodney and John shared the music and stories from across their legendary careers.
That’s all the news Weaver’s has for this issue. If you hear news of between issues, we’d love to hear from you. Otherwise, Weaver’s will continue to comb the web for News of Cast & Crew.
Mayberry Wooden Home Decor – $16-$20
Weaver’s recently added these decorative wooden blocks featuring things like the American flag with the word Mayberry below, I “heart” Mayberry, “It’s a Mayberry Thing,” and other Mayberry related phrases. Each phrase/image is on “cream” color background.
Rustic blocks are a fun way to add personality to any shelf or mantel; the perfect shelf sitter! High-quality home decor handcrafted and made to complement any room.
These wooden decor products are perfectly imperfect! Each piece is individually handmade in the U.S.A. making your sign a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Sizes vary depending upon your choice.
Mayberry Man Series – $13-$20
Small town Americana and modern life collide when movie star Chris Stone falls in love with Mayberry’s sweetheart. Meanwhile, Mayberry’s quirky citizens confront a nefarious plot to wipe their antiquated town off the map.
“Mayberry Man: The Series” is a spin-off of the Mayberry Man movie. In the movie, A-list movie star Chris Stone is forced to spend a week at Mayberry Fest, a small-town festival celebrating The Andy Griffith Show. Surrounded by Mayberry fans and salt of the earth locals, he learns the true value of friendship and family. The Series is a continuation of that story.
Mayberry Man is inspired by the classic 1960s television series The Andy Griffith Show starring Andy Griffith as Sheriff Andy Taylor, Ron Howard as Andy’s son Opie, and Don Knotts as Deputy Barney Fife. Since its premiere in 1960, it’s never been off the air in more than 60 years (8 seasons & continuous syndication). The show depicted a simpler time in America set in the fictional small town of Mayberry, North Carolina.
The series picks up about a year after the events of the Mayberry Man movie and continue the story in 5 episodes.
****Chapter News ****
Colorado Fishin’ Hole Whistler’s Chapter ( Colorado Springs, Colo.) had over 40 members were invited to Mayberry, Colorado for our chapter’s gathering in October. “Mayberry” is an actual residential community located 25 miles east of Colorado Springs! The presence of the Mayberry squad car, a visit from Dixie Griffith, and special door prizes were only matched by the fun of watching “TV or not TV” and “Three Wishes for Opie.“
You Were On A Date, You Weren’t Taking Medicine chapter (Piedmont, S.C.) sent in a report letting Weaver’s HQ know they recently did a weekend camping trip. Part of the trip included watching several TAGS episodes. Fortunately, they brought plenty of food and didn’t have to trap a wild pheasant and cook it pioneer style, although they reportedly did have plenty of shoestrings just in case. They didn’t report if they heard a web footed red crested lake loon but since they sent in this report, we’re happy to report they made it out of the woods and back home.
That’s all the official reports but there were several TAGSRWC chapters represented on the Mayberry Cruise to include Hearty Eatin’ Men and Beautiful, Delicate Women (Tusculoosa, Ala.), A Dollar and a Quarter (New Philadelphia, Ohio), Who’s Been Messin’ Up the Bulletin Board (Internet), Ain’t We Lucky to be Livin’ in Such a Friendly Town? (Burlington, N.C.), Put a Buckeye in Your Pocket & Do the Incant for a Sore Foot (Bessemer, Ala.), Suck in that Gut! (Milan, IN), Ain’t We Lucky to Be Living in Such a Friendly Town (Burlington, N.C.)and Mother Figure (Huntsville, AL). I’m sure we may have missed a chapter hopefully this is a fairly good list of those that attended the cruise.
Weaver’s Newsletter would love to have your chapter reports for inclusion in future issues of the newsletter.
Send in your chapter reports (floyd@imayberry.com), show off your chapter’s Mayberry spirit and encourage others along the way. We would love to hear from you.
****Chapter Update ****
Our total number of chapters started since TAGSRWC was founded in 1979 is holding steady at 1,491. There were no new chapters started since the last issues of Weaver’s Newsletter.
Starting a chapter of TAGSRWC is still just as easy as it was four decades ago. You simply pick a name that hasn’t previously been selected by another group. (You can check the searchable list of chapter names already taken at www.iMayberry.com.) Then submit your chapter’s name with your location and a list of your founding members by e-mail to Goober@imayberry.com. That’s all it takes!
Whether or not you start or join a local chapter, you can always join our online “Who’s Been Messin’ Up the Bulletin Board?” chapter or any of several exclusively online chapters on Facebook (see Mayberry on the Web below).
Mayberry Postmark Notecards – $10
Back in Stock!!
They aren’t NEW, but we’ve put them in the new section because they’ve been gone so long. “Pinkled Tink” to have them back.
Mayberry Postmark Notecards
by Mike Johnson
Mike Johnson is an honorary native of North Carolina, his work is a reflection of his love and reverence for the rural south and The Andy Griffith Show.
With his Mayberry Postmarks notecard set, Mike has used scenes that are representative of the show, but not from the show, in an attempt to capture the Mayberry spirit in art. He certainly accomplished exactly what he was attempting.
Each set contains 10 notecards with each having a different pen & ink drawing that will spread the Mayberry spirit to those who receive them. Write your own note inside the card to complete that personal connection with family and friends.
Included: 10 cards, each with different Mayberry designs, & 10 envelopes
**** 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 814 episodes of Two Chairs since Allan launched the podcast over 16 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 for the Mayberry Bible Study Podcast.
TAGSRWC’s official page on Facebook has over 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.
**** Post Note ****
Another year of Weaver’s Newsletter has come to an end but there will be more Mayberry fun in the years to come. Thank you to those that sent chapter and event news as well as updates.
Ms. Weaver (Jan) and I want to thank those who have shopped with us at WeaversDepartmentStore.com. Your support, shopping at Weaver’s, means so much to us and we appreciate you supporting our “mom & pop” small business. Please consider browsing around our online store to find things that make you smile. We also hope you get joy from reading the Newsletter.
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.
Check out the 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 January 2025 . Please make sure you’re subscribed to the newsletter so you don’t miss an issue when it publishes. We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas!
****
