{"id":1421,"date":"2015-04-15T19:06:26","date_gmt":"2015-04-16T00:06:26","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/?p=1421"},"modified":"2015-05-14T08:52:52","modified_gmt":"2015-05-14T13:52:52","slug":"weavers-newsletter-april-2015","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/2015\/04\/weavers-newsletter-april-2015\/","title":{"rendered":"Weaver’s Newsletter April 2015"},"content":{"rendered":"

Weaver\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>Newsletter<\/em><\/strong>
\nAn Online newsletter of<\/strong>
\n\u201cThe Andy Griffith Show\u201d Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC)
\nApril 2015<\/strong><\/p>\n

Before getting to any other news this issue, we want to begin with…<\/p>\n

Remembering James Best<\/strong><\/h1>\n

\"JamesBestGuitarPortrait\"<\/a>By Jim Clark<\/p>\n

Even as we remember and celebrate his life, Mayberry and the world continue to mourn the loss of James Best<\/strong>, Mayberry\u2019s Jim Lindsey. He died April 6 from complications of pneumonia. He was just 88.<\/p>\n

I say just<\/em> 88, because Jimmie, the youthful nickname he preferred, was always as exuberant about life as anyone I\u2019ve ever known, whether age 8 or 88. He was still living his life with absolute gusto, which is a word that has always immediately come to my mind when being around Jimmie or thinking about him and all that he did in his life\u2014and how<\/em> he lived his life.<\/p>\n

\""Just<\/a>

“Just one more take!”<\/p><\/div>\n

Jimmie was in no hurry to leave this world. He had a lot more that he was ready to do. As he told the Winston-Salem Journal<\/em>\u2019s Tim Clodfelter five years ago, \u201cWhen they plant my butt in the ground, I\u2019m still going to be saying, \u2018Just one more take!\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

At the same time, Jimmie was prepared. He no doubt had done the math, as we all start to do as we age. With age came great wisdom and perspective for Jimmie, as, again, we all hope they will come for us. But he didn\u2019t let wisdom get in the way of continuing to enjoy his full-throttle way of life, the Best life.<\/p>\n

I had the privilege of working with Jimmie on his 2009 autobiography, Best in Hollywood: The Good, the Bad and the Beautiful<\/em>. I was billed as his co-writer on the project, and he treated me with every bit of the respect of an equal partner. But make no mistake\u2014I was basically the student eagerly learning from a person I considered to be a genuine creative genius. I was honored to be considered his collaborator. I would\u2019ve been just as happy to be his typist, which was all that I needed to be much of the time, because great storytelling simply flowed from Jimmie.<\/p>\n

When we began working on the book, we met at Dorothy and Jimmie\u2019s house in Florida to record what we all thought would be the first of many rounds of interviews needed for his book. Instead, after the first day, Jimmie had been so efficient in telling tales that, when we were done for the day, we already had what essentially would be the entire book, the story of his life.<\/p>\n

\"BestCover\"<\/a>Granted, it was a very long day of talking for him. And Jimmie would later think of some other stories to add here and there, and there was a lot of rewriting and editing and selecting photos still to be done. And a lot of typing. But in large part, in one day of enthralling storytelling, Jimmie had created and performed an entire book on tape for me. I was amazed at his creative energy and work ethic. Oh, and we even had time in the middle of it all to go to the local Bruster\u2019s for ice cream. With Jimmie, there was always time for ice cream.<\/p>\n

One of the many things that is amazing to me about Jimmie is the passion he had for so many different things. His seven-decade love for acting and performing would be more than enough to satisfy the creative interests of most of us. But he was also an avid teacher. He taught acting and film technique in workshops, as well as on the faculty of colleges and universities, from coast to coast, for over 25 years.<\/p>\n

\"Jimmie<\/a>

Jimmie with Bogey in “The Caine Mutiny.”<\/p><\/div>\n

On the subject of acting and performing, one of the things he emphasized most was the importance of being able to turn up your personal wattage, just like a light bulb. A performer needs to shine brightly to be noticed, he said. At the very least, a light first must be turned on. And Jimmie knew that he wasn\u2019t talking just about performing. He knew we all need to have our personal lights glowing in life. Zen masters and others might call this being fully present or \u201cin the moment.\u201d Some might call it focus or charisma. Call it what you will. Jimmie not only knew about it. He had it. He had presence. His light always shone brightly.<\/p>\n

\"BestBookPhotos<\/a>Jimmie was also a skilled painter, and one who didn\u2019t settle for one medium. He mastered the intricacies of oils, acrylics and watercolors. And he was likewise an accomplished writer. Again, not of just one type of writing, but several, including poems, songs (that were good enough to be recorded by others), screenplays, plays and eventually his book. Jimmie was no dabbler. He wanted his paintings to be bought and the words he wrote to be performed and published.<\/p>\n

\"Top<\/a>

Top gun.<\/p><\/div>\n

Jimmie was an expert marksman and a black belt in karate. He was also an avid player of online video games. And it wasn\u2019t \u201cCandy Crush\u201d for him. He played \u201cBattlefield\u201d and \u201cCall of Duty\u201d with players around the world who often were one-fourth his age. And when he won, which he did a lot, he might good-naturedly let his opponents know that they had just been literally Bested by Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane. Not every vanquished player at first believed Jimmie was who he said he was, but the smart ones believed and paid attention and learned something from the wily marksman gamer who had been a Air Corps gunner and later fought the German Werwolf <\/em>gangs while an MP in World War II.<\/p>\n

And I haven\u2019t even touched on Jimmie\u2019s real passion, the thing he would rather be doing than all of the activities I\u2019ve mentioned so far. Fishing. Jimmie went fishing every chance he could. He rarely lived far from good fishing spots, and, when he could, he chose to live on the nearest available habitable land to a good spot.<\/p>\n

\"Jimmie<\/a>

Jimmie hanging out near a stream on location for “Shenandoah,” dreaming about his next chance to go fishing.<\/p><\/div>\n

While on location shooting Shenandoah<\/em> one day, James Stewart was filming an important scene up on a bridge while Jimmie, who was not in that particular scene (or, for that matter, in nearly as many other scenes in general as Mr. Stewart the star was), was fishing in the stream down below. Jimmie\u2019s fishing caught the attention of Mr. Stewart, who was a great friend and idol to Jimmie. As Jimmie describes in his book, Mr. Stewart came down the bank to ask Jimmie what he was doing.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fishing,\u201d Jimmie replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well, I can see that,\u201d Mr. Stewart said. \u201cUh, why is it I\u2019m up here working my tail off, and uh\u2026you\u2019re down here fishing?<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Mr. Stewart, if I ever get as rich and famous as you are, I\u2019ll go up there and act, and you can come down here and fish.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve got a point there,\u201d Mr. Stewart conceded.<\/p>\n

With typical self-deprecation and humor, Jimmie observed in his book that he continued for the rest of his acting career to be able to get in a lot of fishing.<\/p>\n

\"Roscoe<\/a>

Rosco and Flash<\/p><\/div>\n

Though he loved fishing, Jimmie never tolerated fishy behavior. Whenever he sensed an injustice, whether to himself or others, he stood up and called out the wrong-doers. And if necessary, he would fight. He would get especially riled if the injustice involved the big or powerful taking advantage of the small or defenseless, whether they be people or animals. A good example of this was his standing up for Flash the basset hound and his trainer on \u201cThe Dukes of Hazzard.\u201d He felt they weren\u2019t being treated fairly or compensated adequately. He threatened to quit the show in support of their fair treatment. The studio came to understand that Jimmie was right, and Flash and his trainer got the full respect they deserved.<\/p>\n

\"Don't<\/a>

Tough guy!<\/p><\/div>\n

Jimmie also stood up to Warner Bros. over failure to pay required royalties for \u201cDukes of Hazzard\u201d merchandise, including items with the likeness of Rosco and of Flash, whom Jimmie again went to battle for on behalf of his trainer. That clash raged for decades, with Jimmie eventually suing the mighty studio. Just before going to trial a few years ago, an undisclosed settlement was reached. Jimmie\u2019s smile was not undisclosed.<\/p>\n

But don\u2019t get the idea that combat-ready Jimmie didn\u2019t have his tender side. He was also the man who made a point of keeping a supply of \u201cdoggie num nums\u201d handy to give to dogs, usually Flash-wannabe basset hounds that fans would bring to greet him at \u201cDukes of Hazzard\u201d gatherings. Jimmie and Dorothy were longtime advocates for animals, especially dogs. They participated in a lot of charitable efforts, and they generously donated their time and many of his paintings to pet causes.<\/p>\n

\"Jimmie<\/a>

OL’ SOFTY–Jimmie (eating birthday ice cream!) with Dorothy at the Taylor Home Inn (replica of the Taylors’ house in Mayberry) in Clear Lake, Wis., in 2010.<\/p><\/div>\n

Jimmie had still other passions. He wrote about those in his book. With Jimmie, there were no nifty shades of gray. It\u2019s all there in black and white. So\u2026read the book! It\u2019s an amazing adventure story.<\/p>\n

Jimmie had for decades been a popular guest at film festivals, especially ones for old Westerns. Jimmie had parts in dozens of them, from routine B Westerns to classics. He had become used to there being interest in his various works of decades earlier. Even so, I think he was initially surprised at what a large and lasting impression his two episodes in the first season of \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show\u201d continued to have with Mayberry fans.<\/p>\n

\"Jimmie<\/a>

Jimmie and Dorothy fishing in Alaska a few years back.<\/p><\/div>\n

Jimmie\u2019s participation in and popularity at Mayberry reunions and festivals outpaced even the nostalgia for his work in Westerns and war pictures\u2014and likely his landmark work in episodes of \u201cAlfred Hitchcock\u201d and \u201cThe Twilight Zone\u201d as well. Only the popularity of his work on \u201cDukes\u201d was greater over time. And the worlds of Mayberry and Hazzard County made for an easy blend. Jimmie could play the Jim Lindsey card or the Rosco card to the equal delight of Mayberry audiences. His face-offs as Rosco vs. the Mayberry Deputy (with tribute actor and friend David Browning) became wildly popular routines at Mayberry events, and also at \u201cDukes\u201d affairs.<\/p>\n

Through all the years I knew Jimmie, first at Western film festivals and then countless Mayberry-related occasions, his beloved wife Dorothy was always by his side. They were the definition of a true partnership\u2014as strong of a team as you\u2019ll ever find in Hollywood or anywhere else. It was a good thing she likes to fish! They ran their various enterprises together and produced films together and shared a love of dogs. Along with all of their mutual passions, they also shared a real compassion for others, whether people or animals, which came through in their charitable efforts.<\/p>\n

\"Jimmie<\/a>

Jimmie as Capt. Thorne Sherman warning about the return of the killer shrews in 2012.<\/p><\/div>\n

Whenever he could, especially in later years, Jimmie worked with family members, both in projects he produced and ones they steered. This family involvement included independent films with daughter Janeen, who writes and produces films with husband Michael Damian, who often also directs. And marketing whiz daughter JoJami is also involved in family projects. Jimmie and Dorothy called their production company Best Friend Films with deliberate purpose. They wanted to work with friends. And with Jimmie, if you were a friend, you were like family. There was never a person more loyal to his friends. As in so many Westerns, Jimmie\u2019s word was his bond. The only difference was that you didn\u2019t have to spit on your hand and shake on a deal like they did in the Old West. His word was enough.<\/p>\n

\"Getting<\/a>

Getting laughs as the Best guitar player never to actually play his guitar.<\/p><\/div>\n

Even given all the achievements of Jimmie\u2019s career and the fullness of his life in general, I think one of the attributes that is most revealing about him was a little thing\u2014his laugh. He would sometimes have a full-throated laugh, but the one I thought was most endearing was his chuckle when something tickled him. And when something really<\/em> delighted him, he\u2019d basically giggle nonstop like a little kid. Pillsbury could\u2019ve sold a lot more dough if they would\u2019ve hired him! As often as not, the giggling would start in the middle of some story he was telling, which just made the story all the more charming. You couldn\u2019t help but giggle right along with him.<\/p>\n

For me, Jimmie\u2019s easy laugh was a sign of his ever-present pure joy about life. I hope I can always hear that laugh in my mind\u2019s ear. Not to mention Rosco\u2019s trademark \u201ckee-kee-kee\u201d snuffle. The smiles from that will be happily ricocheting through \u201cDukes\u201d reruns for generations to come. That has been the wish requested by Dorothy and all of Jimmie\u2019s family: \u201cRemember him with laughter.\u201d And so we will.<\/p>\n

\"JamesBestLaughHat\"<\/a>Thanks for all the happy memories, Jimmie, and happy trails to you. You were indeed\u2026the Best. And your beacon shines on.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s Note<\/strong>: Here\u2019s a link to Jimmie\u2019s official obituary<\/a>, which is followed by statements from friends, including Betty Lynn<\/strong> and others from Mayberry, as well as one from Burt Reynolds, and several from the \u201cDukes of Hazzard\u201d cast and other longtime pals.<\/p>\n

In addition, here\u2019s a fine story by Mark Washburn<\/a> of The Charlotte Observer<\/em>, which was first to report the news of Jimmie\u2019s passing. And here\u2019s a link to a September 2014 interview with Cameron Kent<\/a> of WXII-TV in which Jimmie talks about \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show.\u201d<\/p>\n

Our imayberry.com webmaster Allan Newsome has also set up a James Best Memorial Page<\/a> that includes a place for anyone to leave a comment about Jimmie. this week’s installment, Episode #326<\/a>, of Allan’s Two Chairs, No Waiting<\/em> podcast is all about Jimmie. And there\u2019s also info on Jimmie\u2019s own website at www.jamestbest.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0***<\/p>\n

**** News of Cast & Crew ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n
\"Ron<\/a>

Ron Howard tweeted this photo of himself scouting aerial camera angles for “Inferno” from a helicopter over Florence, Italy. Follow Ron on Twitter @RealRonHoward.<\/p><\/div>\n

Ron Howard\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>has been busy scouting locations and mapping out camera angles and other details\u00a0 as he prepares to start filming Inferno\u00a0<\/span><\/em>(starring Tom Hanks and Felicity Jones) at several locations in Europe this month.\u00a0 The release date for the film is October 2016.<\/p>\n

Ron and his Imagine Film Entertainment team are also pleased to have secured backing from Sony Pictures and MRC for their ambitious plans to bring The Dark Tower<\/em>, based on the popular series of novels by Stephen King,<\/em> to TV and to theaters. As faithful readers of this newsletter will recall, putting all the pieces together for this complex film project (involving equally complex stories) has been a multi-year saga.\u00a0 But it looks like the financial pieces are now in place.<\/p>\n

In a statement, Stephen King said, \u201cI\u2019m excited that The Dark Tower<\/em> is finally going to appear on the screen.\u00a0 Those who have traveled with Roland and his friends in their search for the Dark Tower are going to have their long-held hopes fully realized. This is a brilliant and creative approach to my books.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"FIND<\/a>

A BASEBALL CAP IN THE CROWD–Ron Howard on the ground in Florence this week while working on technical plans for “Inferno.”<\/p><\/div>\n

It hasn’t yet been announced whether Ron might direct any of the installments of either the TV series portion or the parts that will be released in theaters.\u00a0 There continues to be strong speculation that he will do so–especially given his avid dedication to getting The Dark Tower<\/em> made.<\/p>\n

\"Ron<\/a>

Ron Howard and Brian Grazer have a lot to smile about!<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/p>\n

With backing from GE, Ron and Imagine partner Brian Grazer are also producing “Breakthrough” a six-part science and technology documentary series that will premiere on the National Geographic Channel in November.\u00a0 Ron is scheduled to direct one of the hour-long episodes.<\/p>\n

Brother Clint Howard<\/strong> is currently filming a horror movie titled Funhouse Massacre<\/em>. We’re not sure how it compares to The Monster from out of Town<\/em>, but just the title is enough to scare us away.<\/p>\n

And father Rance Howard<\/strong> has parts of varying sizes (including the Devil as an Old Man) in several movies that have recently completed filming or are in pre-production, including Old Soldiers<\/em>, which was also to have starred James Best<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

The first day of spring found\u00a0<\/span>Betty Lynn<\/strong>\u00a0 at her monthly meet-and-greet at the Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy.\u00a0 And she’ll also be there this Friday, April 17, as well.\u00a0 See Floyd’s calendar below for details. If you’re nearby, drop by and get an autographed photo and your picture taken with Betty!<\/p>\n

\"FRIENDLY<\/a>

FRIENDLY GESTURE\u2013Model for the Don Knotts statue in Morgantown, W.V., by local sculptor Jamie Lester.<\/p><\/div>\n

A specific site has been selected for the\u00a0<\/span>Don Knotts <\/strong>statue in his hometown of Morgantown, W.V. Fundraising for the statue has met its goal (thanks in part to generous donations from TAGSRWC members).\u00a0 Additional donations received will go toward upkeep of the statue and the surrounding grounds.\u00a0 Current plans are for a festival and unveiling in the summer of 2016. (There will also be preliminary festivities this July, including\u00a0<\/span>Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performing her one-woman show in Morgantown.\u00a0 See Floyd\u2019s bulletin board below.)<\/p>\n

\"FilmFeestBig\"<\/a>The 18th Annual George Lindsey <\/strong>UNA Film Festival was another big success in early March. Despite being held on the heels of one of the big snow\/ice storms that hit the region, the festival on the campus of the University of North Alabama (George\u2019s alma mater) in Florence drew good crowds, had several interesting panel discussions (including the keynote panel on music and film with some of Hollywood\u2019s top music supervisors) and selected 30 independent films to show out of the almost 3,000 that were submitted.<\/p>\n

\"ElinorMeTVpromo\"<\/a>Elinor Donahue<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>participated in a TAGS promo for MeTV that\u2019s currently in rotation on the channel and can also be viewed online at\u00a0www.metvnetwork.com\/videos.<\/a>\u00a0 There\u2019s also a bunch of other creative and fun promos for TAGS and other TV shows on the MeTV site.<\/p>\n

TAGS associate producer Richard O. (Dick) Linke<\/strong> (also personal manager to several TAGS stars, including Andy Griffith<\/strong>) reports from his home in Hawaii that his old pal Tony Bennett stopped by for a good visit while performing on the islands in February.\u00a0 But even more exciting was the arrival in March of new grandson Leo Joseph, who joins his siblings and parents living in the family compound with Dick and grandma Bettina.<\/p>\n

Margaret Kerry<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(Bess Muggins and Helen Scobey) expects her much anticipated autobiography will be available in May. It should be fascinating, just like her life!<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong>***<\/p>\n

Floyd’s<\/span> Barbershop<\/span> Bulletin<\/span> Board<\/span><\/strong>
\n & <\/strong>
\n Event<\/span> Calendar<\/span><\/strong><\/h1>\n
\n

\"Floyd's<\/p>\n

\"FloydSmug\"<\/a>

Clearly a man with plans!<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0<\/span>Andy Griffith Museum<\/strong>, featuring the late Emmett Forrest\u2019s amazing collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia, is open daily in Mount Airy, N.C. For info, visit the website at\u00a0<\/span>www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/em><\/p>\n

* Now- Apr. 19: Ronnie Schell<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs at the Improv Comedy Club at Harrah\u2019s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.caesars.com\/harrahs-las-vegas<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Photo<\/a>

Photo by Hobart Jones.<\/p><\/div>\n

* Apr. 17: Betty Lynn\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>(Thelma Lou) greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8\u00d710 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

\"The<\/a>

The Mayberry Tribute Artists at the Eagles\u2019 Wings fundraiser. Photo by Alan Thornton.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

* Apr. 23 and 24:<\/strong>\u00a0Eagles\u2019 Wings fundraiser event in Tuscaloosa, Ala. The golf tourney is on Thurs., and the dinner, silent auction, and entertainment are on Fri. night at the Bryant Conference Center.\u00a0 David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning, Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d Newsome, Kenneth \u201cOtis Junkin,\u201d Tim \u201cGoober\u201d Pettigrew, Jeff\u00a0 \u201cHoward Sprague\u201d Branch, Bob \u201cBriscoe\u201d Mundy, Christie \u201cAndelina Darling\u201d McLendon, Phil \u201cErnest T.\u201d Fox, and Michael \u201cGomer\u201d Oliver are among the entertainers with Mayberry connections.\u00a0 Make plans to attend this annual event that supports Eagles\u2019 Wings efforts to assist adults with disabilities.\u00a0 For info, call (205) 345-5484 or visit\u00a0<\/span>www.eagleswingsoftuscaloosa.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"MaggieCherryBlossom\"<\/a>* Apr. 23-25: Maggie Peterson<\/strong> and Morgan Brittany<\/strong> are<\/span> featured guests for the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival in Marshfield.\u00a0 For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.cherryblossomfest.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* Apr. 26: Ronnie Schell<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>headlines two fundraiser performances for the Richmond Museum in Richmond, Calif. \u201cRonnie Schell & His Funny Friends\u201d will be presented at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Topline Theater, 1402 Marina Way in Richmond.\u00a0 Tickets are $30.\u00a0 For tickets and info, call (510) 235-7387.<\/p>\n

\"LeRoyMackStoriesCD\"<\/a>* May 1 and 2: Fifth Annual Mayberry Comes to Westminster<\/strong>\u00a0festival in Westminster, S.C.\u00a0 Special guest star is Dobro wiz and TAGS alum LeRoy McNees<\/strong>.\u00a0 In addition there will other Mayberry-related music venues, parades, arts and crafts, food booths, a car and tractor show, trivia and whistling contests, a Bible study, a silent auction and more.\u00a0\u00a0And Mayberry favorites\u00a0the VW Boys and David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning will\u00a0present their\u00a0\u201cMemories of Mayberry\u201d show Saturday afternoon.\u00a0 For more info, visit www.mayberrywestminster.com<\/a>\u00a0or check out Mayberry Comes to Westminster, S.C., on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\"An<\/a>

An earnest bass champ of 2014.<\/p><\/div>\n

* May 2: 28th Annual Uncle Jesse Big Bass Classic<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(founded by Denver Pyle<\/strong>) in Paris, Tex.\u00a0 For more info, visit: www.unclejessefishing.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"WestminsterStreet\"<\/a>* May 5-8: Memories from Mayberry: Timeless Truths from America\u2019s Hometown<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>offers a fun TAGS experience in another\u00a0one\u00a0of America\u2019s hometowns, lovely Clarksville, Tenn. (about an hour north of Nashville). The\u00a0event features fun-filled Bible studies based on favorite episodes, uplifting preaching and worship, gospel concerts, a visit to Fort Campbell, and more. The all-inclusive price includes three nights, seven meals, and program fee. Contact Frances at\u00a0<\/span>frances@clarksville.tn.us<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>for more info.<\/p>\n

* May 8: Margaret Kerry<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>will be spreading pixie dust at the Tinker Bell Marathon at Disneyland.<\/p>\n

\"BrowningLincoln\"<\/a>* May 9:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\/Honest Abe\u201d Browning performs his one-man\u00a0<\/span>From Gettysburg to Mayberry<\/em>\u00a0<\/span>show as a \u201cSong of the Mountains\u201d fundraiser at the Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Va.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m.\u00a0 Tickets are just\u00a01,500\u00a0pennies or\u00a0three fins. For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.thelincoln.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"MissouriBoatrideNew\"<\/a>

Dean Webb (standing next to hood) and The Missouri Boatride and their truck ride.<\/p><\/div>\n

* May 12 and 13: Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and The Missouri Boatride performs at the Bluegrass and BBQ Festival at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo.\u00a0 For more info, visit www.silverdollarcity.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* May 15: Betty Lynn <\/strong>(Thelma Lou) greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8\u00d710 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

\"Maggie<\/a>

Maggie and Rodney will be back at Mayberry in the Midwest in May!<\/p><\/div>\n

* May 15-17: Mayberry in the Midwest<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>returns to Danville, Ind. Among the festival\u2019s highlights are the parade, the Mayberry Squad Car Nationals, and performances by the Mayberry Tribute Artists. The special guest stars this year\u00a0are\u00a0Maggie Peterson<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(Charlene Darling) and her Darling TV brother,\u00a0<\/span>Rodney Dillard<\/strong>, and the Dillard Band, who will do a concert on\u00a0Saturday.\u00a0Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>will also present a keynote talk titled \u201cA Deputy\u2019s Daughter\u201d (different than her \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d one-woman show) on Sat. and\u00a0Sun. afternoons. Other details TBA. Visit www.mayberryinthemidwest.com<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0<\/span>for more info and updates.<\/p>\n

\"DeanWebbMissourBR\"<\/a>* May 16:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Darling boy Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>fires up his mandolin with The Missouri Boatride Bluegrass Band when they perform as part of the FREE Bluegrass on the Lake concert series at the Hillbilly Bowl in Kimberling City, Mo.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m.<\/p>\n

* May 23: Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and his Missouri Boatride buddies perform at the Wilson\u2019s Creek National Battlefield in Springfield, Mo.\u00a0 The concert is free and starts at 6:30 p.m.<\/p>\n

\"Ronnie<\/a>* May 23: Ronnie Schell<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>is a special guest star for Altoona Day, which runs from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., in downtown Altoona, Ala.\u00a0 Ronnie is among the stars, including Gunilla Hutton (Billie Jo Bradley on \u201cPetticoat Junction\u201d and Nurse Goodbody on \u201cHee Haw\u201d), who will be greeting fans and signing autographs (for a fee) at this popular festival in eastern Alabama that features food, arts & crafts, music, classic cars and much more. For more info, call (205) 589-2311.<\/p>\n

* May 23:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning patrols the 100th Somernites Cruise Car Show in Somerset, Ky. For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.somernitescruise.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* May 30<\/strong>: David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning navigates the Clinch River Days festival in St. Paul, Va.<\/p>\n

* June 5 and 6:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning, Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d Newsome, Kenneth \u201cOtis\u201d Junkin, and Christie \u201cAndelina Darling\u201d McLendon are back on the truck (or maybe off the wagon in one case) for Mule Days in Gordo, Ala.<\/p>\n

* June 13:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Darling mandolin man\u00a0<\/span>Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and The Missouri Boatride Bluegrass Band perform as part of the FREE Bluegrass on the Lake concert series in the parking lot outside the Hillbilly Bowl in Kimberling City, Mo.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m. Bring your own comfortable seating.<\/p>\n

\"BaileysBadBoy2\"<\/a>* June 13:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Neal Brower, author of\u00a0<\/span>Mayberry 101<\/em>, presents a lecture on the\u00a0<\/span>\u201cBailey\u2019s Bad Boy\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>episode of TAGS, featuring Bill Bixby, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Admission is included with an Andy Griffith Museum admission.\u00a0 For info, visit the website at\u00a0<\/span>www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* June 18-21: Roland White<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs as part of a Kentucky Colonels tribute at the Father\u2019s Day Bluegrass Festival in Grass Valley, Calif.\u00a0 For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.fathersdayfestival.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Betty<\/a>

Betty Lynn signs a photo for TAGSRWC member Bruce Fisher at the Andy Griffith Museum. Photo by Hobart Jones.<\/p><\/div>\n

* June 19: Betty Lynn\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>(Thelma Lou) greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8\u00d710 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* June 26:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>It\u2019s darn fun when David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning visits the Salem (Va.) Red Sox baseball game.<\/p>\n

* July 4:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning, Kenneth \u201cOtis\u201d Junkin, Phil \u201cErnest T.\u201d Fox, Jeff \u201cHoward Sprague\u201d Branch, Michael \u201cGomer\u201d Oliver, and Georgia \u201cAunt Bee\u201d Branam harvest laughs at the Southeast Old Threshers Reunion festival in Denton, N.C. They\u2019ll do shows with the Burrows Brothers bluegrass band at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.\u00a0 For more info, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.farmpark.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"BriscoeBath\"<\/a>* July 11:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Neal Brower, author of\u00a0<\/span>Mayberry 101<\/em>, presents a lecture on the\u00a0<\/span>\u201cBriscoe Declares for Aunt Bee\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>episode of TAGS, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Admission is included with an Andy Griffith Museum admission.\u00a0 For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* July 11:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning adds Mayberry harmony to the Sing II Faith in Action Fundraiser at the Paramount Theatre in Bristol, Tenn.<\/p>\n

* July 11 and 12: Roland White Band<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs at the Frankfort Bluegrass Festival in Frankfort, Ill.<\/p>\n

* July 14:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David Mayberry Deputy\u201d Browning sets up Checkpoint Chickie at the International Norton Owners Association Carolina Vintage Motorcycle Rally.<\/p>\n

* July 17: Betty Lynn\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>(Thelma Lou) greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8\u00d710 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at\u00a0<\/span>www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

\"MMICar\"<\/a>* July 17-19:\u00a0<\/span>Mayberry Meet-Up<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Timed in part to coincide with\u00a0<\/span>Betty Lynn<\/strong>\u2018s autograph session on Friday, this informal gathering is being coordinated by Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d Newsome as a chance for fans to gather and enjoy Mount Airy during a quieter time of year than with the wall-to-wall activities\u00a0 and crowds of Mayberry Days (also not to be missed!) in September.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a light schedule of planned activities that folks can pick and choose from.\u00a0 It\u2019s mostly just a chance to hang out and relax in Mount Airy with fellow visitors and local friends.\u00a0 The Mayberry Motor Inn and its gazebo serve as the home base for weekend. Click the highlighted link above for details.<\/p>\n

* July 18: Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs her one-woman \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d show at 7:30 p.m. at University High School in her dad\u2019s hometown of Morgantown, W.V.<\/p>\n

* July 25:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Darling mandolin man\u00a0<\/span>Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and The Missouri Boatride Bluegrass Band perform as part of the FREE Bluegrass on the Lake concert series in the parking lot outside the Hillbilly Bowl in Kimberling City, Mo.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m. Bring your own comfortable seating.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 6-8:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning stalks fun at the Tazewell County Fair in Tazewell, Va.<\/p>\n

\"AndyandOpieHousekeepers\"<\/a>* Aug. 8:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Neal Brower, author of\u00a0<\/span>Mayberry 101<\/em>, presents a lecture on the\u00a0<\/span>\u201cAndy and Opie, Housekeepers\u201d<\/strong>episode of TAGS, starting at 2 p.m., in the Andy Griffith Museum Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Admission is included with an Andy Griffith Museum admission.\u00a0 For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

\"KarenKnottsPromo\"<\/a>* Aug. 12: Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs her \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d show to the Red Skelton Museum in Vincennes, Ind.\u00a0 David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning also performs.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m., and tickets are $10.\u00a0 For info, call (812) 888-4184.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 14 and 15: Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>brings \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d at the Kentucky Classic Arts Theatre in Lebanon, Ky.\u00a0 Tickets are $10. For more info or tickets, call (270) 321-0218 or e-mail: kentuckyclassictheatre@mail.com.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 21: Betty Lynn\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>(Thelma Lou) greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8\u00d710 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 22: Rodney Dillard\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Maggie Peterson<\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong>are joined by several of the Mayberry tribute artists (including David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning,\u00a0Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d\u00a0Newsome, Kenneth \u201cOtis\u201d Junkin, Phil \u201cErnest T.\u201d Fox,\u00a0 and Jeff \u201cHoward\u201d Branch) for a concert benefiting the Montgomery County DARE program on Saturday at the James H. Garner Center in Troy, N.C. Tickets for the show are $20 for\u00a0reserved seats and $15 for general admission.\u00a0 Tickets for children 6 years-12 years\u00a0old\u00a0are $10. For more info, call Jeff Branch at (704) 985-6987, e-mail jbranch205@windstream.net<\/a>, or visit www.bluegrassintroy.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 29 and 30:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning is on track for the 25th Annual Depot Days in Amboy, Ill.<\/p>\n

* Sept. 20-23: Life Lessons From Mayberry: It\u2019s All There in Black and White\u00a0<\/strong>in Ridgecrest, N.C. (just outside Asheville) is a Bible study event drawing on the biblical truths and life applications found in \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show.\u201d The event is $300 per person (based on double occupancy), and includes three nights of on-campus lodging, eight meals, Bible study sessions based on favorite TAGS episodes, dynamic preaching, worship, bluegrass concert, and special guest\u00a0<\/span>Margaret Kerry<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(Bess Muggins in \u201cChristmas Story\u201d and Helen Scobey in \u201cAndy Forecloses\u201d). To register, call Ridgecrest Conference Center at (800) 588-7222 or visit\u00a0<\/span>www.lifeway.com\/mayberry<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"RodneyMaggieColor\"<\/a>* Sept. 24-27: 26th Annual Mayberry Days<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Mayberry Days started in 1990, so this 26th annual festival marks its 25th Anniversary, and also the 55th Anniversary of \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show\u201d itself.\u00a0 The festival already shows signs of being more chock-full of fun than ever before.\u00a0 If that\u2019s even possible!<\/p>\n

\"James<\/a>

James Gregory<\/p><\/div>\n

Tickets are already available online for key parts of the weekend, including the Mayberry Days Golf Tournament (aka The Emmett) and banquet show; a concert by Rodney Dillard<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and the Dillard Band, with special guest\u00a0<\/span>Maggie Peterson<\/strong>;\u00a0 the comedy show of James Gregory (\u201cthe funniest man in America\u201d); the VW Boys Tribute to Mayberry; Neal Brower\u2019s Lecture featuring TAGS assistant director Bruce Bilson<\/strong> (who, after his two seasons on TAGS, went on to be an Emmy-winning big-time director of other top TV shows); Colonel Tim\u2019s Talent Time; and much, much more.\u00a0 For info, updates and tickets, visit\u00a0<\/span>www.surryarts.org<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 3: 55th Anniversary of the airing of the first episode of \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show\u201d on CBS.<\/strong><\/p>\n

* Oct. 3: Dean Webb<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and The Missouri Boatride perform at The Old Brush Arbor at Keystone Baptist Church in Reeds Spring, Mo.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 8: Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d at 2 p.m. in Columbus, Ohio.\u00a0 Venue and other details TBA.<\/p>\n

\"RonnieSchellFosterLady\"<\/a>

SEA SCHELL–Ronnie Schell is ready to shine on and foster good times on the Mayberry cruise. It’s the one for you!<\/p><\/div>\n

* Oct. 12-17: Ronnie Schell<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>is the special guest star on the\u00a0<\/span>Cruise to Mayberry 10<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>to the Caribbean aboard Carnival\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>Conquest<\/em>\u00a0<\/span>cruise ship.\u00a0 The cruise departs Ft. Lauderdale for Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, Nassau, and a \u201cFun Day\u201d at sea.<\/p>\n

Activities include a Mayberry trivia contest, whistling contest, Mayberry bible study, variety show, concerts, and entertainment by Tim White\u00a0of the VW Boys and Mayberry tribute artists, including\u00a0 Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d Newsome, Kenneth \u201cOtis\u201d Junkin, Ronnie \u201cBarney\u201d Felker, Bob \u201cBriscoe\u201d Mundy, Christie \u201cAndelina\u201d McLendon, Jeff \u201cHoward Sprague\u201d Branch, Elease \u201cThelma Lou\u201d Felker, Tim \u201cGoober\u201d Pettigrew and Keith \u201cColonel Harvey\u201d Brown.\u00a0\u00a0\u201cElvis\u201d\u00a0tribute artist Wayne Euliss\u00a0will also be a featured performer.\u00a0\u00a0 For more info, visit\u00a0www.allaboutcruisesnc.net\/mayberry.php<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 17: Karen Knotts<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>performs \u201cTied Up in Knotts\u201d at the Uptown Theater in Grand Prairie, Tex.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m.\u00a0 For more info and tickets, visitwww.uptowntheatergp.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* Dec. 3-5: Maggie Peterson\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>(Charlene Darling)\u00a0<\/strong>is the special guest for\u00a0<\/span>A Life Lessons from Mayberry Christmas\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>in Ridgecrest, N.C. (just outside Asheville). This heartwarming weekend will feature\u00a0Bible studies based on four popular\u00a0TAGS episodes, inspirational preaching and carols, and a\u00a0Christmas banquet.\u00a0 Come celebrate Christmas\u2026Mayberry style! For every member of the family\u2013children\u2019s prices available. To register, call Ridgecrest Conference Center at (800) 588-7222 or visit www.ridgecrestconferencecenter.org\/event\/mayberrychristmas<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"MayberryChristmasPromo\"<\/a>* Dec. 18:<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>Maggie Peterson<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and\u00a0<\/span>Rodney Dillard<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and the Dillard Band are joined by David \u201cMayberry Deputy\u201d Browning for a presentation of their Mayberry Christmas show at 7 p.m. ET at the historic State Theater in Elizabethtown, Ky.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

.<\/p>\n

\u00a0***<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

**** Merchandise Update ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n

We\u2019re excited to have\u00a0<\/span>four brand new licensed T-shirts<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>to kick off the T-shirt-wearing season!\u00a0 Check them out below.\u00a0 But one of the biggest changes at Weaver\u2019s is one you may not at first notice\u2026at least not until you order something from us.<\/p>\n

That\u2019s because, in March, and after 33 years, the retailing and order fulfillment part of Weaver\u2019s (in other words, virtually all of what Weaver\u2019s does) moved from Nashville, Tenn., to Huntsville, Ala., where Jan\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>and\u00a0<\/span>Allan Newsome<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>have taken over the handling of all online orders for Weaver\u2019s.<\/p>\n

\"SHREWD<\/a>

SHREWD CREW–Jan and Allan Newsome (far left and far right) with son Adam and James Best and the beautiful painting that James donated (and the Newsomes won) at the charity silent auction at the gala premiere of “Return of the Killer Shrews” in Bristol, Tenn., in 2012.<\/p><\/div>\n

The biggest thing about the change that will affect some shoppers is that shipments going to Alabama will now need to include payment of Alabama sales tax (drats!), and shipments going to Tennessee will no longer have to include Tennessee sales tax (hooray!).<\/p>\n

There will surely be other changes and enhancements to Weaver\u2019s as Jan and Allan get comfortable with the Weaver\u2019s reins.\u00a0 Weaver\u2019s could not be in better hands going forward.\u00a0 (Jan has extensive experience in retail, and Allan was already the Weaver\u2019s webmaster, as he also is for the whole family of TAGSRWC and imayberry.com sites, and others.)\u00a0 Weaver\u2019s is lucky to be able to have this smooth transition to two such capable friends who are already familiar to and respected by so many Mayberry fans.<\/p>\n

TAGSRWC\u2019s HQ will continue to be in Nashville. Things such as our printed and online newsletters (including Weaver’s Newsletter<\/em>) and chapter coordination will still be Goobered out of our Nashville home base.\u00a0 So, basically the main difference for now is that your Weaver\u2019s shipments will come with a Huntsville postmark.<\/p>\n

Anyway, enough about things behind the scenes.\u00a0 Here’s a few of the items we\u2019re featuring at Weaver\u2019s this season.\u00a0 Go ahead and pick out something you like, and help keep Jan and Allan busy!<\/p>\n

New T-Shirts!<\/strong><\/em><\/h2>\n

We\u2019ve added these four great new T-shirt designs<\/a> to our growing lineup of licensed apparel:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
\n

\n

\n

\n

\"Circle<\/a>

Circle of Trust T-shirt<\/p><\/div><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

All four of the new designs are just $20, as are most of our T-shirts<\/a>.\u00a0 (A few designs are $18, and the Lawmen<\/a> all-over design is $25.)\u00a0 We also have sweatshirts and hoodies<\/a> in two designs, as well as caps, Goober beanies<\/a>, deputy patches<\/a> and even a bandana<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u00a0 Miss Crump\u2019s Book Nook:
\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A Cuban in Mayberry\u2013Looking Back at America\u2019s Hometown<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"CubanInMayberry\"<\/a>$30.00<\/strong><\/del>\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>$25.00<\/strong>
\nNEW!!!
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"USCubaNewspaper\"<\/a>This new and outstanding book about TAGS\u00a0was published in October.\u00a0 Within 10 weeks of\u00a0its release, the U.S. began to take steps to normalize relations with Cuba for the first time since TAGS first aired.\u00a0 Coincidence?\u00a0 We think not.\u00a0 This book is\u00a0that powerfully good!<\/p>\n

Not only that, but Marco Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, has this week officially announced that he is running for President of the United States.\u00a0 So, no matter what your political persuasion, every Mayberry fan had better get up to date on our Cuban connection!<\/p>\n

In any case and possibly even more important,\u00a0<\/span>A Cuban in Mayberry\u2013Looking Back at America\u2019s Hometown<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>is the first book directly about the show itself in about a dozen years. It\u2019s\u00a0written by Gustavo P\u00e9rez Firmat, a native of Cuba who is a professor of humanities at Columbia University. (He also has lived and taught for decades in North Carolina.)<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t let the title fool you.\u00a0 This is neither a book about a lost episode nor some sort of fan fiction about Ricky Ricardo visiting Mayberry.\u00a0 It\u2019s much more than that. This well-written 194-page book from the University of Texas Press is a very scholarly discussion about TAGS.\u00a0 It\u2019s basically written from the perspective of somebody like \u201cStranger in Town\u201d Ed Sawyer, someone who\u2019s not native to Mayberry, but eagerly sees the joys and wants to understand and be a part of the friendly town.<\/p>\n

For anyone who enjoys thinking about and understanding more about Mayberry, a description that likely fits most readers of this newsletter as much as any other community in the world,\u00a0<\/span>A Cuban in Mayberry<\/em>\u00a0<\/span>is fascinating reading, maybe even essential.\u00a0 You probably won\u2019t agree with all of Professor P\u00e9rez Firmat\u2019s observations and conclusions about TAGS, but you\u2019re sure to enjoy the journey.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll find these items and much more, including books, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, rare collectibles, tin signs, a Barney thermometer, board games, blankets, items for vehicles, etc., all online at www.weaversdepartmentstore.com<\/a>.\u00a0 (Or just go to www.imayberry.com <\/a>and click on one of the\u00a0 orange and blue Weaver\u2019s buttons at the top.)<\/p>\n

P.S. Don’t Let This Happen to You!<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Terri Morris left her copy of Aunt Bee’s Mealtime in Mayberry<\/a> home alone for just one hour with Gidget, her Jack Russell Terrier. This was the result:<\/p>\n

\"REIGN<\/a>

REIGN OF TERRIER–My dog ate my cookbook!<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/p>\n

We must, however, applaud Gidget’s excellent taste!<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

**** Mayberry on the Web ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n

\"imayberrycommunity\"<\/a><\/strong>\"Keith<\/a><\/p>\n

The iMayberry Community<\/strong>
\nThis TAGSRWC online group is organized and overseen by webmaster\u00a0<\/span>Allan \u201cFloyd\u201d Newsome\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>with able assistance from Keith \u201cCol. Harvey\u201d Brown<\/strong>. You can check it out and sign up for free at:\u00a0<\/span>http:\/\/i<\/strong>mayberrycommunity.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The iMayberry Community complements our other online activities, including our main\u00a0<\/span>www.i<\/strong>mayberry.com<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>page, podcasts, Facebook page, online newsletters (such as\u00a0<\/span>The eBullet<\/em>), weaversdepartmentstore.com<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and chat rooms.<\/p>\n

\"Mayberry<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>Two Chairs, No Waiting<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/em><\/strong>is our weekly podcast of TAGS news, interviews and pretty much whatever happens to be going on in and around Mayberry. It\u2019s hosted by\u00a0<\/span>Allan Newsome<\/strong>. There\u2019s a new episode every Tuesday (and you can watch and listen live during tapings on Monday evenings). Past episodes are in an online Archives in case you want to listen to or view episodes you\u2019ve missed.<\/p>\n

Allan started the podcasts in 2008. This week’s 326th episode<\/a> is devoted to a special remembrance of James Best<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s a lot of info and discussions that you simply won\u2019t find anywhere else, including rare interviews (vintage and new) with cast and crew members of TAGS. If you\u2019ve got sound on your computer or have an iPod or similar device, you can easily tune in live or download these podcasts.\u00a0 And you\u2019ll also find links there to a couple of other outstanding Mayberry-related podcasts.<\/p>\n

\"Facebooklogo\"<\/a>TAGSRWC\u2019s official page on\u00a0<\/span>Facebook<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>now has more than 130,000 friends! You can find us at www.facebook.com\/tagsrwc<\/a>. If you haven\u2019t already dropped by the page, we hope you\u2019ll check it out sometime when you have the chance. We invite you to become a TAGSRWC Facebook Friend!<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>**** Post Note ****<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Between issues of\u00a0Weaver\u2019s Newsletter<\/em>, keep up with the happenings in Mayberry with the daily\u00a0\u201cWho\u2019s Been Messin\u2019 Up the Bulletin Board?\u201d Digest.<\/a>\u00a0It\u2019s a\u00a0free\u00a0subscriber list that consists entirely of comments, news flashes, and questions and answers from subscribers. You can sign up for that list by going to the \u201cMailing Lists\u201d link at\u00a0www.tagsrwc.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

TAGSRWC<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>also publishes\u00a0The eBullet<\/em><\/strong>\u00a0in alternate months to\u00a0Weaver\u2019s Newsletter<\/em>.\u00a0The eBullet<\/em>\u00a0is the online successor to our longtime printed newsletter,\u00a0The Bullet<\/em>. Like\u00a0Weaver\u2019s Newsletter, The eBullet<\/em>\u00a0is\u00a0free. It includes some of the same news as\u00a0Weaver\u2019s Newsletter<\/em>, but generally with more features and depth and a little less emphasis on merchandise news. To sign up, go to: www.tagsrwc.com\/ebullet\/joinebullet.htm<\/a>.<\/p>\n

TAGSRWC<\/strong>\u2019s other main vehicle for Mayberry information is simply our website at\u00a0www.tagsrwc.com<\/a>\u00a0(and its sister site\u00a0www.iMayberry.com<\/a>). Both sites have extensive content and links for just about everything a Mayberry fan might be looking for.<\/p>\n

The\u00a0next issue of\u00a0Weaver\u2019s Newsletter<\/em>\u00a0<\/span>is scheduled for June, with the next\u00a0eBullet<\/em>\u00a0planned for May.<\/p>\n

\u00a0***<\/em><\/p>\n

\"ROSERoscoPColor\"<\/a>

Courtesy of John Rose.<\/p><\/div>\n

***<\/p>\n

\"Printer<\/a> Printer Friendly Version<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Weaver\u2019s\u00a0Newsletter An Online newsletter of \u201cThe Andy Griffith Show\u201d Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC) April 2015 Before getting to any other news this issue, we want to begin with… Remembering James Best By Jim Clark Even as we remember and celebrate …<\/span> Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1421","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-newsletter"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p1DkeF-mV","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1421","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1421"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1421\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1499,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1421\/revisions\/1499"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1421"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1421"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/WeaversDepartmentStore.com\/newsletter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1421"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}