{"id":3982,"date":"2016-05-26T20:49:55","date_gmt":"2016-05-27T01:49:55","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/?p=3982"},"modified":"2021-07-13T18:25:28","modified_gmt":"2021-07-13T23:25:28","slug":"the-ebullet-volume-16-issue-3-may-2016","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/2016\/05\/the-ebullet-volume-16-issue-3-may-2016\/","title":{"rendered":"The eBullet: Volume 16, Issue 3, May 2016"},"content":{"rendered":"

*********************************************
\n\"\"<\/a>The eBullet<\/strong><\/em><\/span>
\nAn Online Newsletter of “The Andy Griffith Show” Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC)<\/span>
\nVolume 16, Issue 3
\nMay 2016<\/span>
\n*************************************************************<\/p>\n

Floyd’s\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Barbershop\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/h1>\n

Bulletin<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Board <\/span><\/strong>&<\/span> <\/strong><\/span>Event<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Calendar<\/span><\/strong><\/h1>\n
\"Russell

Russell Hiatt
(1924-2016)
Farewell, great friend!
(Please see story about Russell below.)<\/p><\/div>\n

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

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

* June 2-4: The Dillards <\/strong>(featuring Rodney Dillard<\/strong>) perform at the John Hartford Memorial Festival in Bean Blossom, Ind.\u00a0 Details TBA. For more info, visit www.johnhartfordmemfest.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* June 9: Dean Webb<\/strong> and Missouri Boatride perform a free concert at 7 p.m. at the Kimberling City Mall in Kimberling City, Mo.<\/p>\n

\"BigHouseGomeBarn\"<\/a>* June 11: <\/strong>Neal Brower, author of\u00a0Mayberry 101<\/em>, presents a lecture on “The Big House” <\/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 ($6).\u00a0 For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* June 17: Betty Lynn <\/strong>greets fans at the Andy Griffith Museum 12:30-3:30 p.m. She will have autographed 8 x 10 photos available ($10). For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* June 17: Roland White<\/strong> and his band perform at 9 p.m. at the Station Inn<\/a> in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

\"KarenKnottsGuitar\"* June 17: Karen Knotts<\/strong> performs “Tied Up in Knotts” at the Sondheim Center for the Performing Arts in Fairfield, Iowa.\u00a0 Show time is 7 p.m. For info, call (641) 472-2000 or visit www.fairfieldacc.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* June 18: Karen Knotts<\/strong> brings “Tied Up in Knotts” to Madison, Wis. Details TBA.<\/p>\n

* June 19: Karen Knotts<\/strong> and her “Tied Up in Knotts” show come to Diamond Joe’s Casino in Northwood (near Dubuque),\u00a0 Iowa.\u00a0 Show time is 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.diamondjoworth.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

* June 26-July 3: Ronnie Schell<\/strong> performs at Harvey’s Hotel & Casino in Lake Tahoe.<\/p>\n

\"MMIGazebo\"* July 8 and 9: Mayberry Meet-Up<\/a><\/strong> in Mount Airy, N.C.\u00a0 Timed in part to coincide with Neal Brower’s Lecture <\/strong>on Saturday at the Andy Griffith Museum (see the July 9 listing below), this informal gathering is being coordinated by Allan “Floyd” 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’s a light schedule of planned activities that folks can pick and choose from.\u00a0 (Click the highlighted link above for details on the event’s Facebook page.) It’s mostly just a chance to hang out and relax in Mount Airy with fellow visitors and local friends.\u00a0 Click this link for the Mayberry Motor Inn<\/a><\/strong> website for room reservation info.\u00a0 The motel and its gazebo serve as the home base for weekend.<\/p>\n

* July 9: Dean Webb<\/strong> and Missouri Boatride perform a free concert at 7 p.m. at the Kimberling City Mall in Kimberling City, Mo.<\/p>\n

\"MomsDiner\"<\/a>* July 9:<\/strong> Neal Brower presents a lecture on the “Andy’s Rich Girlfriend” <\/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 ($6).\u00a0 For info, visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* July 10: The Roland White Band<\/strong> performs at the Bluegrass on the Green Festival in Frankfort, Ill.<\/p>\n

\"DonKnottsStatue\"* July 21: Don Knotts<\/strong> statue dedication in Morgantown, W.V.\u00a0 Details TBA.<\/p>\n

* July 24: The Dillards <\/strong>(featuring Rodney Dillard<\/strong>) perform at First United Methodist Church in Starkville, Miss.\u00a0 Details TBA.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 6: Roland White<\/strong> and his band perform at 9 p.m. at the Station Inn<\/a> in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

\""They're

“They’re doin’ it!”<\/p><\/div>\n

* Aug. 13:<\/strong> Mayberry 101 <\/em>author <\/em>Neal Brower presents a lecture on the “Goober and the Art of Love” <\/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 ($6).\u00a0 Visit the website at www.andygriffithmuseum.org<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0or call (336) 786-1604.<\/p>\n

* Aug. 20:<\/strong> Mayberry Night<\/strong> in Troy, N.C. , starring Maggie Peterson<\/strong>, the VW Boys and most of the Mayberry tribute artists in a fundraiser show for the local DARE program.\u00a0 Details TBA.<\/p>\n

\"A

A special occasion to celebrate indeed!<\/p><\/div>\n

* Aug. 20 and 21: Hal J. Smith (aka Otis Campbell) 100th Birthday Celebration<\/strong> in Massena, N.Y.\u00a0 Hal was born in Petoskey, Mich., on Aug. 24, 1916, but called Massena home for many years. Details of the celebration are TBA.\u00a0 Follow updates on plans at the event’s Facebook page<\/a>, or contact organizer John Michaud III by phone at (315) 769-2102 or by e-mail at massenaguy2003@yahoo.com.<\/p>\n

\"YOU

YOU BET–Bette and Betty in June Bride<\/em>.<\/p><\/div>\n

* Aug. 26-31:<\/strong> As part of the celebration of Betty Lynn’s 90th Birthday<\/strong> (Aug. 29), the historic Earle Theatre in Mount Airy, N.C., will screen June Bride<\/em>, the 1948 film starring Betty in the title role. Also starring Bette Davis and Robert Montgomery.\u00a0 And look for Debbie Reynolds and Mayberry’s Amzie Strickland<\/strong> (Miss Rosemary) and Tom Tully<\/strong> (Walt Simpson) in smaller roles.<\/p>\n

* Sept. 10: Roland White<\/strong> and his band perform at 9 p.m. at the Station Inn<\/a> in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

\"MFMlogo\"* Sept. 19-22: Memories From Mayberry: Timeless Truths from America’s Hometown\u00a0<\/strong>is a Bible study event drawing on the biblical truths and life applications found in “The Andy Griffith Show.” Hosted by\u00a0the Georgia Baptist Conference Center in Toccoa, GA (90 miles NE of Atlanta). The price is $325 per person.<\/p>\n

\"LeRoyMackStoriesCD\"The all-inclusive price includes three nights of on-campus lodging, eight meals, Bible study sessions based on favorite TAGS episodes, dynamic preaching, worship, and special guest star LeRoy McNees<\/strong> (“Mayberry on Record” and “Quiet Sam”) in concert. To register, call (706) 886-3133 or visit www.mytoccoa.com\/mayberry.<\/p>\n

* Sept. 21-25: 27th Annual Mayberry Days<\/strong> in Mount Airy, N.C. Stars confirmed so far include Mount Airy’s own Betty Lynn<\/strong> (Thelma Lou), The Dillards<\/strong> (featuring Rodney Dillard<\/strong>), and Karen Knotts<\/strong> (daughter of Don Knotts<\/strong>), who will present two one-woman shows this year: her popular “Tied Up in Knotts” and her brand new one, “A Deputy’s Daughter.” Dorothy Best<\/strong>\u00a0 (with David Browning) will also present “Remember Me with Laughter: A Tribute to James Best<\/strong>.”<\/p>\n

\"Mayberry

Mayberry Days parade 2015. Photo by Hobart Jones.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Other performances include the comedy of James Gregory (“the funniest man in America”), The VW Boys, Michael Hoover’s Elvis, The Embers (featuring Craig Woolard), The Tams, and the Malpass Brothers. Tickets are also available for The Emmett Golf Tournament, the Golf Banquet & Entertainment, Professor Brower’s Lecture\/TAGSRWC Meeting, and Colonel Tim’s Talent Time.<\/p>\n

\"James

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

More details and stars TBA. Much of the festival is free, but tickets for many of the activities\/performances listed above that have a paid admission are now available online at www.mayberrydays.org<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 1: LeRoy McNees<\/strong> and Gloryland perform at the Kern County Fair in Bakersfield, Calif.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 21: Roland White<\/strong> and his band perform at 9 p.m. at the Station Inn <\/a>in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

* Oct. 22: Karen Knotts<\/strong> brings “Tied Up in Knotts” to the Sellersville Theater in Sellersville, Penn.\u00a0 Show time is 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.st94.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n

* Oct. 23:<\/strong> Next stop for Karen Knotts<\/strong> and her “Tied Up in Knotts” tour is the Bickford Theatre in the Morris Museum in Morristown, N.J. Show time is 2:00 p.m. For info, visit www.morrismuseum.org.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Jackie<\/a>

SEA’S THE MOMENT–Jackie Joseph, shadowed by Allan “Floyd” Newsome, spreading good cheer on the 2013 Mayberry cruise. Photo by Jan Newsome.<\/p><\/div>\n

* Oct. 29 -Nov. 3: Cruise to Mayberry 11<\/strong> with special guest star Jackie Joseph<\/strong> (aka to Ernest T. Bass’s Sweet Romeena)! Join the fun (including Halloween) in the western Caribbean aboard Carnival’s Paradise<\/em> cruise ship as it departs Tampa with stops in Grand Cayman (a favorite of Asa’s and Mr. Meldrim’s) and Cozumel (a fave of Daphne and Skippy and Mavis Neff).<\/p>\n

A bunch of popular Mayberry tribute artists (and also an Elvis) will join Jackie in providing entertainment and hosting contests, along with all the hearty eatin’ and usual cruise highlights.\u00a0 For more info, visit www.allaboutcruisesnc.net<\/a> or call 1-800-832-7993.<\/p>\n

\"Roland

Roland White and his band<\/p><\/div>\n

* Nov. 25: Roland White<\/strong> and his band perform at 9 p.m. at the Station Inn<\/a> in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

* Dec. 3: Roland White<\/strong> hosts and the Roland White Band performs for the 20th Annual Bill Monroe Appreciation Night at the Station Inn<\/a> in Nashville, Tenn.<\/p>\n

* Dec. 3:<\/strong> Get “Tied Up in Knotts” for the holidays when Karen Knotts<\/strong> brings her one-woman show to the Monroe Arts Center in Monroe, Wis. Show time is 7:30 p.m.\u00a0 For further info, go to www.morrismuseum.org.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

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

PILLAR OF MAYBERRY–The rendering of Andy Griffith by artist John Burgin.<\/p><\/div>\n

Andy Griffith<\/strong> and seven fellow legends of the Carolinas had their images on giant columns unveiled last week in the lobby of the Knight Theater in Charlotte’s Spirit Square. Here’s a link to a story about Andy and his fellow cylindrical murals<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Ron Howard\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>continues with post-production work on\u00a0<\/span>Inferno<\/em>, which is currently scheduled to be in theaters on October 28 and is a solid bet for box-office success.<\/p>\n

And Imagine is producing and Ron is directing\u00a0<\/span>The Beatles Live<\/em>, a documentary scheduled to premiere on Hulu later this year.<\/p>\n

\"HEY<\/a>

HEY PAUL–Ron Howard recently tweeted this photo of himself with Sir Paul McCartney. Follow Ron on Twitter @RealRonHoward.<\/p><\/div>\n

Ron and the Imagine team are also producing a six-part sci-fi docu-miniseries called “Mars” about the colonization of Mars that’s scheduled for National Geographic Channel’s 2016-17 season.<\/p>\n

And Imagine is producing and Ron has also signed to direct the first episode of “Genius,” the first scripted series for Nat Geo.\u00a0 The series is about great innovators, with the first episode set to feature Albert Einstein.<\/p>\n

In a statement about the project, Ron said, “Having already worked with National Geographic on ‘Breakthrough’ and currently in production on ‘Mars’ — our exciting unscripted and scripted hybrid series that tells of our journey to colonize Mars — I look forward to their support as we tell this ambitious but intimate and revealing human story behind Einstein’s scientific brilliance. I hope that his story, as well as those of other geniuses, will both entertain and inspire the next generation of Einsteins.”<\/p>\n

The series is expected to premiere next spring in 171 countries and 45 languages.<\/p>\n

Imagine is also among the producers for Stephen King’s\u00a0<\/span>Dark Tower<\/em>\u00a0<\/span>across several media platforms, including a feature film expected in 2017 and a possible TV series that might tie episodes into the movie’s storyline.<\/p>\n

\"Clint<\/a>

Clint Howard, aka Crazy Dave.<\/p><\/div>\n

Clint Howard<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>was recently back in Nashville filming more episodes of “Still the King,” an upcoming series (premiering on June 12 on CMT) about an Elvis impersonator (Billy Ray Cyrus). Clint plays a roadie named Crazy Dave.<\/p>\n

Clint has also been active and vocal in the presidential primary campaign, but in order not to ruffle any feathers one way or the other and to keep this space as politically neutral as possible, we can be trusted to refrain from discussing anybody’s political allegiances here.<\/p>\n

That said, there is one political campaign that’s probably\u00a0appropriate for us to mention:<\/p>\n

\"READY<\/a>

READY TO ROCK THE VOTE– You can read the official announcement at\u00a0<\/span>www.ErnestT.com<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rodney Dillard<\/strong>\u00a0and his band (now officially billed again as The Dillards) have put the finishing touches on their new album, which is expected to be released soon. In April, Rodney and the band taped an episode of the RFD-TV’s “Larry’s Country Diner” in Nashville.\u00a0 The episode premiered this month.<\/p>\n

\"EATIN'

EATIN’ SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS–Rodney Dillard (green shirt) and the Dillards band are surrounded by and mingled among the cast of “Larry’s Country Diner” during a taping in Nashville in April. The episode premiered on the RFD Channel earlier this month.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Rodney and the band also recently returned from multiple performances of\u00a0 their successful Mayberry Moments show with\u00a0<\/span>Maggie Peterson<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>in Cumming, Ga.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Maggie

CHEERY SINGER–Maggie Peterson performing during the Missouri Cherry Blossom Festival in April.<\/p><\/div>\n

Maggie says that she and husband Gus are doing well and are enjoying their new dog, a Maltese Yorkie named Phoebe.\u00a0 (Their cats are maybe not quite as keen about Phoebe joining the family, but after all…they’re the cats.)<\/p>\n

And Maggie was a big hit both at the Missouri Cherry Blossom festival in Marshfield, where she appeared with fellow TAGS alums Morgan Brittany<\/strong> and Margaret Kerry<\/strong> in April, and at last weekend’s Mayberry in the Midwest<\/strong> event in Danville, Ind. (See photo in Chapter News.)<\/p>\n

\"Margarett

KERRY ON–Margaret Kerry (center) with attendees at a Cherry Blossom Festival luncheon in April.<\/p><\/div>\n

Speaking of Margaret Kerry, she’s putting the finishing touches on her much anticipated autobiography, Tinker Bell Talks–Tales of a Pixie Dusted Life<\/em>, which she expects to turn into the publisher in June.\u00a0 Meanwhile, Margaret continues to appear regularly at Disneyana events, including a recent one in California and one coming up in Dayton, Ohio, in June. Keep up with Margaret at www.tinkerbelltalks.com<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Eric

SO PLAID–Eric & George: A One-Man Show.<\/p><\/div>\n

Margaret Kerry’s son, Eric Norquist<\/strong>, and George Lindsey Jr<\/strong>. are developing their\u00a0 comedy act, “Eric & George: A One-Man Show.”\u00a0 They’ve got a tour booked out west in September and October, which unfortunately will mean that George will have to miss Mayberry Days in Mount Airy this year.<\/p>\n

Jackie Joseph<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(Mayberry’s Sweet Romeena) was involved in several recognitions of her good friend Doris Day’s birthday in April. And she continues to be involved in a variety of social, charitable, and acting industry endeavors, as well as writing her “Talk with Jackie” column for The Tolcuan Times<\/a>, which runs every few weeks or as inspiration or an occasion arises.<\/p>\n

\"TWO

TWO GRAND FELLAS–Russell Hiatt and George Spence outside the Andy Griffith Playhouse during Mayberry Days 1999.<\/p><\/div>\n

We checked in with George Spence<\/strong> (Frank the Boyfriend in “Guest in the House”) on his 88th birthday (April 18). \u00a0He’s recovering from recent hip surgery, but other than that is doing well. \u00a0He and wife Stephanie hope to return to Mayberry Days in September.<\/p>\n

Ronnie Schell<\/strong> visited<\/span> Australia in April with friends and son Greg. Maybe there will be some photos that let us see Schells seeing sea shells by the seashore.<\/p>\n

Julie Adams<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>(Nurse Mary in “The County Nurse”) thrilled fans in April with her appearance at the Space Coast Nerd Fest in Melbourne, Fla.,\u00a0 and again at Monsterpalooza in Pasadena, Calif. Stay up on happenings with Julie at\u00a0<\/span>www.julieadams.biz<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>and on her\u00a0<\/span>Official Julie Adams page<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\"LAGOONIN'<\/a>

LAGOONIN’ GOOD–Julie Adams poses with a “creatster” tribute artist in homage to her pre-Mayberry cult film classic “Creature from the Black Lagoon” during Space Coast Nerd Fest.<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

\"William

William Schallert as “Quiet Sam.”<\/p><\/div>\n

We’re sad to report the passing of an actor with a Mayberry connection. William Schallert<\/strong>, who played expectant father Sam Becker in “Quiet Sam” (Episode 29), died May 8 at his home in Pacific Palisades, Calif. He was 93.<\/p>\n

The beloved actor was seen (or heard) in countless roles, especially on TV and on stage. Beyond Mayberry, he is perhaps best known to the TV generation as Mr. Pomfritt, one of Dobie’s teachers in “The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis” and as Martin Lane, father (and uncle) of Patty Duke’s characters in “The Patty Duke Show.”<\/p>\n

\"WilliamSchallert\"William Joseph “Bill” Schallert was born in Los Angeles on July 6, 1922. His father, Edwin Schallert, was a Los Angeles Times<\/em> drama editor for four decades.<\/p>\n

Bill attended UCLA and then studied theater at the University of Oxford while on a Fulbright scholarship.\u00a0 He was a founding member of Hollywood’s Circle Theater, where he was directed by Charlie Chaplin in the 1940s.\u00a0 He was an active member of the Screen Actors Guild, and was elected to a two-year term as its president in 1979, a term that included a 13-week strike for better pay for actors as cable TV was emerging as a force.<\/p>\n

His legendary film career spanned from uncredited roles, such as a banker in The Foxes of Harrow<\/em> (1947) and a gas station attendant in Mighty Joe Young<\/em> (1949) to Justice Paul Stevens in the Emmy Award-winning Recount<\/em> for HBO in 2008 and an elevator operator in “2 Broke Girls” in 2014.\u00a0 He performed in a Who’s Who of TV shows all along the way. Bill never retired.<\/p>\n

Bill’s wife, actress Leah Waggner, died in 2015. He is survived by four\u00a0 sons and seven grandchildren.\u00a0 Not to mention his Mayberry son, Andy Becker.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Remembering Russell Hiatt<\/strong><\/h1>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"RussellMotorcycle0614\"<\/p>\n

BEEP-BEEP! OUTTA THE WAY, SUNDAY DRIVER!–
\nRussell is ready to fly on a Gold Wing
\non the street outside his shop in 2014.
\nPhoto by Bill Hiatt.<\/em><\/p>\n

Our Mayberry world lost one of its all-time great friends when Russell Hiatt<\/strong> passed away on May 3.\u00a0 He was 92 (a milestone figure not only signifying a long life, but also a fitting number that many Mayberry watchers closely associate with Floyd the Barber on TAGS).<\/p>\n

A member of the National Barber Hall of Fame and dubbed “America’s Barber, Russell cut hair in Mount Airy, N.C., for a remarkable seven decades. (At the end of his barbering days, Russell was thought to be the second oldest active barber in the country.)<\/p>\n

But Russell did far more than give great haircuts.\u00a0 He was a man of devout faith who truly followed the Golden Rule. He spread joy and demonstrated integrity and compassion to all who entered his City Barber Shop or encountered him anywhere else.<\/p>\n

And when in 1990, Tanya Jones of the Surry Arts Council suggested he put up a little sign saying “Floyd’s Barbershop” in his shop window to add some Mayberry flare to the first Mayberry Day (which was just one day that first year), civic-minded Russell agreed and played along.\u00a0 Little did he or anyone else realize what adventures that simple gesture would lead to during the next quarter century.<\/p>\n

Russell, who had a notable resemblance to Howard McNear’s Floyd the Barber, soon became an icon for Mayberry fans who came to Mount Airy looking to experience a glimpse of Mayberry.\u00a0 Russell enthusiastically embraced the role.\u00a0 Before long, he was spending far more of most days greeting fans rather than giving haircuts.<\/p>\n

Russell and his pal Charles Dowell, next door at the Snappy Lunch, became Main Street’s co-ambassadors for Mayberry fans, who could enjoy the delightful one-two punch of a delicious pork chop sandwich at Snappy, followed by a visit with Russell next door, or vice versa. Either way, it was combination that was hard to beat.<\/p>\n

\"Russell

CAKE WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS–Russell Hiatt at his 90th birthday party in 2014. Photo by Hobart Jones.<\/p><\/div>\n

Through the years, tens of thousands of fans visited Russell.\u00a0 The thousands of photos that still cover his shop walls (and the thousands more in storage) provide a time capsule of decades of visitors.\u00a0 Russell was uncanny at remembering faces and people’s stories, and he was almost as good at remembering their names–by the thousands.<\/p>\n

And it wasn’t just us everyday fans who visited. In addition to all the Mayberry stars who came to town, celebrities from all realms dropped by his shop. From the Incredible Hulk (Lou Ferrigno) to Oprah to governors, they all came calling, along with news media from all over the country.<\/p>\n

While our first visit to Russell’s shop might’ve been to see Floyd the Barber, all of our subsequent visits were to see Russell, our steadfast friend.<\/p>\n

On the afternoon of May 6, Russell’s funeral procession, on its way to the service at Russell’s church, drove down Main Street, past the barbershop one last time.\u00a0 Main Street was lined on both sides by a hundreds of people who came to pay their respects to a man who had contributed so much to individual lives and to his community.<\/p>\n

At the church, Russell was eulogized as a man whose legacy was largely defined simply by the way he had lived his life, with dignity, passion, kindness and humility. The actions of his life still speak more than any words ever could.\u00a0 Even more than being a great man, which he was, Russell Hiatt was a good man.<\/p>\n

There was outstanding coverage about Russell in the Mount Airy News and by local TV media.\u00a0 Here are links to some of those stories:<\/p>\n

Mount Airy News Front Page News Story<\/a>
\nMount Airy News Editorial
\n<\/a>Winston-Salem Journal Story<\/a>
\nCoverage by WFMY-TV (Greensboro)
\nMount Airy News Funeral Coverage<\/a>
\nFuneral Coverage by WXII-TV (Winston-Salem)<\/a><\/p>\n

And we think it’s fitting that we conclude our own tribute to Russell in a way that he would surely appreciate–with photos.\u00a0 Here are a few of our favorites:<\/p>\n

\"GOOB

GOOB PALS–Russell with George Lindsey at the barbershop during Mayberry Days 1999.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"REIGNING

HAIR CHAIRMAN–Russell with Shelton and Wanda Fields (left) of TAGSRWC’s Barney chapter and friends at an early 1990s Mayberry Days. (Compare the progress of photos on the wall reflected in this picture with the coverage visible in images taken in the shop just a few year later, when even much of the mirror space has happily surrendered to Russell’s photo kudzu.)<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"MAESTROS--Russell

MAYBERRY MAESTROS–Russell with TAGS music director Earle Hagen and Earle’s wife, Laura, during Mayberry Days 2003.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"FOUR

FOUR FRIENDS FOREVER–At the shop with Tim “Goober” Pettigrew, Kenneth “Otis” Junkin and Allan “Floyd Too” Newsome (all incognito) in 2014.<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/h5>\n

See more photos and memories (including hundreds from fellow fans in the Comments areas) posted on TAGSRWC’s Facebook page<\/a> between May 3 and 5.<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

\u00a0**** Chapter Update **** <\/strong><\/h1>\n

One new chapter has been founded since our last report in the March eBullet.\u00a0 <\/em>We now have had 1,442 chapters founded since TAGSRWC started in 1979.<\/p>\n

Mayberry Memorial Horse Trough Hat-Dippers\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Kremlin, Mont.<\/strong><\/p>\n

A drip of the hat and a Mayberry welcome to our newest chapter!<\/p>\n

Starting a chapter of TAGSRWC is really easy to do.\u00a0 Just pick a name that hasn’t already been chosen (at this point, not as easy as it might sound!) and then submit it with a list of your founding members by e-mail (to Goober@imayberry.com<\/strong>)<\/a> or by U.S. Mail to TAGSRWC’s HQ (118 16th Avenue South, PMB 146, Nashville, TN\u00a0 37203-3100<\/strong>).\u00a0 There’s a searchable list of chapter names that are already taken at www.tagsrwc.com<\/b><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Whether or not you start or join a local chapter, you can always join our online “Who’s Been Messin’ Up the Bulletin Board?” <\/strong>chapter. (It’s really quick and easy to do. Info is at tagsrwc.com<\/a>.)<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

\n

\u00a0**** Merchandise Update ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\"SUN

SUN OR THE BEACH?–This is Ben’s summer outfit. He likes to stay hot and bothered.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

The approach of summer is almost making Ben Weaver not grumpy. Almost. We’ve got one new item (a new take on an old favorite).<\/p>\n

And with short-sleeve weather now here (for everybody but ol’ Ben, that is), what better time to shop for a new Mayberry T-shirt. \u00a0We have 36 different designs<\/a><\/strong> to choose from!<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\"MayberryWhistlersT\"<\/a>\"MayberryChoppersT\"<\/a>Suit yourself to a summertime tee!<\/em><\/p>\n

Here are other highlights in store for you online at\u00a0 Weaver’s Department Store<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>this month.<\/p>\n

Mayberry Deputy Badge<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n

NEW!<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"DeputyBadge2016\"<\/a><\/p>\n

$10.00<\/strong><\/p>\n

Most of us may not feel like we can step into Andy’s shoes but, what about Barney’s?<\/p>\n

This latest interpretation is a sturdy, but simplified representation of Barney’s Mayberry Deputy’s badge.\u00a0 In other words, it’s not an exact replica, but for the price, you can’t beat it.<\/p>\n

The color is “nickel” and you’ll be able to pin it to the khaki shirt of your choice to have that official deputy look.\u00a0 Get a\u00a0Mayberry Deputy Patch<\/a>\u00a0to accessorize even more like a true Mayberry Deputy!<\/p>\n

Two T-Shirts Now in New Toddler Sizes!<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"AwPaT\"<\/a>\"NewestNipItTShirt\"<\/a>Two of our most popular T-shirts are now available in Toddler sizes, so that even the youngest fans can show their Mayberry spirit.\u00a0 We have both our “Aw, Pa” and Newest Nip It designs in Toddler 2, 3 and 4 sizes.\u00a0 And what makes them irresistible (besides a cute kid wearing them, of course!) is the smaller price, just $16, compared to $20 for adult sizes (also a great deal!).\u00a0 No doubt about it…these new sizes are “darn cute.”<\/p>\n

***<\/p>\n

Most of our\u00a0<\/span>T-shirts<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>are just $20.\u00a0 (A few designs are $18, and the\u00a0<\/span>Lawmen<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>all-over design is $25.)\u00a0 We also have\u00a0<\/span>caps, Goober beanies<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and\u00a0<\/span>deputy patches<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n

You’ll find these items and much more, including books, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, rare collectibles, tin signs, artwork, rare board games, blankets, items for vehicles and who knows what all–all online at\u00a0<\/span>www.weaversdepartmentstore.com<\/a>.\u00a0 (Or just go to\u00a0<\/span>www.imayberry.com<\/a>\u00a0and click on one of the orange and blue Weaver’s buttons at the top.)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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

**** Chapter News ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Our biggest chapter news\u00a0 for this issue revolves around three big Mayberry events during the last month or so.<\/p>\n

\"MAYBERRY

MAYBERRY RINGLEADERS–The team of tribute artists huddles to discuss their next play at the Eagles’ Wings fundraiser in Tuscaloosa in April.<\/p><\/div>\n

First up was the annual Eagles’ Wings fundraiser<\/strong> in Tuscaloosa, Ala.\u00a0 Members of our local “Hearty Eatin’ Men and Beautiful Delicate Women”<\/strong> chapter are key supporters of that event, which raises funds for the local facility and program that support adults with special needs.\u00a0 The Mayberry tribute artists also put on a show during the banquet, and added fun to auction and the golf tournament.<\/p>\n

Next up was the 6th Annual Mayberry Comes to Westminster<\/strong> festival in South Carolina the first weekend of May.\u00a0 The event, spearheaded by Laura Lee Hobbs<\/strong> chapter of Westminster, featured two presentations by Karen Knotts<\/strong> of her “Knott Knotts, Who’s There? Getting to Know the Man Behind Barney Fife” show.\u00a0 Also on hand for another highly successful edition of this festival, which drew fans and participants from at least eight states, was a full crew of the Mayberry artists and even an Elvis.<\/p>\n

\"Karen

“TRY, TRY, TRY, TRY”–Karen Knotts (between Otis and Mayor Pike) sings the “Mayberry Union High” song with a gaggle of tribute artists and others at Mayberry Comes to Westminster.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Just this past weekend was the third big recent Mayberry event with the Mayberry in the Midwest<\/strong> festival in Danville, Ind.\u00a0 This year’s festival starred Maggie Peterson <\/strong>and drew participants and chapters from at least 13 states.<\/p>\n

\"MAYBERRY

MAYBERRY CARPOOL–Grand Marshal Maggie Peterson (in red) and Dixie Griffith (between Otis and Briscoe) pause with the Mayberry tribute artists (and a stray Opie passing by) before the Mayberry in the Midwest parade.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Also on hand for the festivities were Dixie Griffith<\/strong> (Andy’s daughter), the VW Boys and the Mayberry tribute artists. Included as part of the weekend was the Mayberry Squad Car Nationals<\/strong>. We’ll let a couple of more photos tell some of the story.<\/p>\n

\"GOOBTROTTERS--As

THEIR DAZE IS NUMBERED–As part of Mayberry in the Midwest, assorted characters goobled together the Mayberry Bullets basketball team to compete in a game against local players. The team gave it their best shot, but we think this photo is indication enough about their style of play. Photo by Stephanie Gossett.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"WHEEL

WHEEL WINNERS–The team of Carlie Gossett<\/strong> (of “Now You’re Gonna Glenn Ford It All Over Town”<\/strong> chapter, Lafayette, Ind.) as the runner, Collin Watkins<\/strong> (center) riding shotgun and Ray Watkins<\/strong> behind the wheel won the obstacle course competition of the Mayberry Squad Car Nationals<\/strong> during Mayberry in the Midwest. (Carlie’s brother Coy<\/strong> and father Jeff<\/strong> finished second, so there could be a friendly racing rivalry developing in the household, along with having a lot of shiny new hardware to find shelf space for). Photo by Stephanie Gossett.<\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mavis Neff<\/strong> chapter (Durham, N.C.) got together with members of Andy<\/strong> chapter in Nashville for some hearty eatin’ last week. It was their second joint chapter meeting this year. Members of Barney<\/strong> chapter (Greensboro, N.C.) and Sarah<\/strong> chapter (Charlotte, N.C.) also met up with Andy chapter earlier this month, as did members of Mayberry Town Council<\/strong> (Grand Rapids, Mich.).<\/p>\n

Also checking in with HQ were “I’m in It for Keeps”<\/strong> (Albertville, Ala.), “You Better Put a Buckeye in Your Pocket and Do the Incant for a Sore Toe”<\/strong> (Bessemer, Ala.), “Remembering Mayberry<\/strong> (Chillicothe, Ohio), “She’s Nice!” <\/strong>(Hendersonville, Tenn.), “Burnt to a Turn! My Life Snuffed Out!\u00a0 Completely Dead!”<\/strong> (Madison, Miss.), “Hear that, Boys?\u00a0 No Yellin’ at the Table”<\/strong> (Joplin, Mo.), “Compelsion Nuts”<\/strong> (Kingsport, Tenn.), “Pepperelli Pizza”<\/strong> (Raeford, N.C.),\u00a0 “I Was a Pawn in the Hands of Wily Woman”<\/strong> (Plainfield, Neb.) and “‘Course I Don’t Fix ’em; I Just Put in the Gas”<\/strong> (Oil City, Ont.)<\/p>\n

\"ALL

ALL HAIL–Susan Honey Knell (left) and Meg Berrian of “Hail to Thee, Miss Mayberry” weren’t about to miss the chance for a photo with Betty Lynn while in Mount Airy!<\/p><\/div>\n

Members of “Hail to Thee, Miss Mayberry”<\/strong> chapter (Webb City, Mo.) took a road trip last week that included a stop in Mount Airy and a visit with Betty Lynn<\/strong> during her regular meet-and-greet session at the Andy Griffith Museum (third Friday of most months).<\/p>\n

Mayberry<\/strong> chapter (Knoxville, Tenn.) has been relatively quiet this spring, but worry not.\u00a0 We expect a big splash from them this summer. Several members are heading to L.A. together in June to visit Mayberry stars and sites.<\/p>\n

That’s our Chapter News for this time. We always love to hear about what’s going on with chapters. If your chapter has news or photos to share, you can reach The eBullet<\/em> by e-mail at Goober@imayberry.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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

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

\"imayberrycommunity\"<\/a>The iMayberry Community<\/strong><\/p>\n

This TAGSRWC online group is organized and overseen by webmaster Allan “Floyd” Newsome <\/strong>with able assistance from Keith “Col. Harvey” Brown<\/strong>. You can check it out and sign up for free at: http:\/\/i<\/strong>mayberrycommunity.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n

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

\"Mayberry<\/a><\/p>\n

\"CHAIR,

CHAIR, CHAIR!–Allan Newsome hosting a recent “Two Chairs” podcast.<\/p><\/div>\n

Two Chairs, No Waiting<\/a> <\/em><\/strong>is our weekly podcast of TAGS news, interviews and pretty much whatever happens to be going on in and around Mayberry. It’s hosted by Allan Newsome<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

There’s 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 classic installments you’ve missed. (There have been 379 episodes since Allan started the podcasts in 2008.)\u00a0 Of special note recently is Episode 377<\/a><\/strong>, which includes interviews from 1998 with Russell Hiatt<\/strong> of Floyd’s City Barber Shop in Mount Airy, N.C.<\/p>\n

There’s a lot of info and discussions that you simply won’t find anywhere else, including rare interviews (vintage and new) with cast and crew members of TAGS.\u00a0 And you’ll also find links there to a couple of other outstanding Mayberry-related podcasts: Burke on Mayberry<\/strong><\/em><\/a> (hosted by TAGSRWC’s Kevin Burke<\/strong>) <\/span>and the\u00a0<\/span>Mayberry Bible Study Podcast<\/strong><\/em><\/a> (hosted by Allan Newsome).<\/p>\n

\"Facebookthumb\"TAGSRWC’s official page on Facebook<\/strong> now has over 228,000 friends! You can find us at www.facebook.com\/tagsrwc<\/a><\/strong>. 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!<\/p>\n

Even Ol’ Ben Weaver has his own Facebook page at www.facebook.com\/weaversdepartmentstore<\/a><\/strong>. Check it out for the latest Mayberry items and merchandise news.<\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0 **** Post Note ****<\/strong><\/h1>\n

If you ever miss receiving an issue of The eBullet<\/em>, you can always catch up by reading it in the eBullet <\/em>Archives<\/strong><\/a> in the Newsletters section at i<\/strong>mayberry.com<\/a>. Each issue is placed in the Archives at the same time that it’s distributed to subscribers.<\/p>\n

Between issues of The eBullet<\/em>, keep up with all the happenings in Mayberry with the daily Who’s Been Messin’ Up the Bulletin Board?<\/a> <\/strong>(aka “WBMUTBB?”) Digest<\/em>. It’s a free<\/strong> subscriber list that consists entirely of comments, newsflashes, and questions and answers from subscribers. You can sign up for that list by going to the Mailing Lists link at tagsrwc.com<\/a>. “WBMUTBB?” also has its own Archives where you can follow the ongoing stream of messages.<\/p>\n

And TAGSRWC publishes Weaver’s Newsletter<\/a>\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>in alternate months to The eBullet<\/em>. Like The eBullet<\/em>, the Weaver’s Newsletter<\/em> is free. Its focus is tilted a little more to Mayberry merchandise and collectibles and quick newsflashes. To sign up, go to Weaver’s Newsletter Sign-Up<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The next eBullet<\/em> for is planned for July, and the next Weaver’s Newsletter<\/em> on tap for June.<\/p>\n

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

\"WHERE'S

WHERE’S MY BULLET?–O.K., not exactly a bullet, but Andy shows his comfort with reloading shotgun shells at home in Toluca Lake, Calif., in this rare photo from June 1963.<\/p><\/div>\n

.<\/h6>\n

***<\/p>\n

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********************************************* The eBullet An Online Newsletter of “The Andy Griffith Show” Rerun Watchers Club (TAGSRWC) Volume 16, Issue 3 May 2016 ************************************************************* Floyd’s\u00a0Barbershop\u00a0 Bulletin\u00a0Board & Event\u00a0Calendar \u00a0\u00a0 The Andy Griffith Museum, featuring the late Emmett Forrest’s amazing collection of Andy …<\/span> Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3982","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-the-ebullet"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3982","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3982"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3982\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8947,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3982\/revisions\/8947"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3982"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3982"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tagsrwc.com\/the_ebullet\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3982"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}