I dare you to take a trip to any of the Mayberry events and not come away feeling better about yourself and the world around you. It is a little like living in the past, and we all reminisce about the good old days…at least those of us who are old enough to have had “good old days.” I dare you to attend the next event. Travel a few miles, make a weekend out of it, bring along friends and relatives…I dare say, you will not be disappointed.
I dare you to attend one of the events and not make friends…or share a smile…or find life a little more laid back and peaceful than the life you left to travel to the event.
I dare you not to laugh at the antics of the many Tribute Artists…on the street, in the parade or on stage. These folks travel from all over the country to share in the Mayberry experience and bring a little joy to the fans of The Andy Griffith Show. The Tribute artists travel from states like Ohio, Alabama, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, and Indiana. The Mayberry Deputy, Otis, Floyd, Ernest T., Gomer, Goober, Howard Sprague, Col. Harvey, Mr. Wheeler, Aunt Bee, Andylina, Mayor Pike, Barney & Thelma Lou, Opie, and Briscoe are true fans of the show, and love to be a part of your fun. Engage with them on the street and in parades. They would love to share a line from the show, give you an autograph and take pictures with you.
I dare you not to be in total awe of the actual stars of the show that come to the events…as well as the children and spouses of the stars. Not to be in awe of them for just being stars (although they deserve it), but to be in awe of them for how friendly they are, and willing to engage with the fans. These folks are stars, but they are great people first, and spending any time around them at all will convince you of their sincerity and how much they enjoy being at the events.
Even though many of you don’t know who might be the driving force, or the director behind making these events happen, I dare you to try and find out…and thank them. It is a lot of work and takes a lot of time and expense to make the Mayberry events as wonderful as they are for the fans and participants.
I dare you to look through the programs and event guides to see who the sponsors are…and then visit their places of business to shop…and to thank them for their sponsorship.
I dare you to support the extracurricular efforts of some of the Mayberry Events, like the golf tournaments, the pancake breakfasts, the car shows, the wonderful Eagle’s Wings fundraiser and the incredibly helpful D.A.R.E. fundraiser to mention a few. Attend the concerts and shows while at the events...you'll laugh and sing along and make memories that will last a lifetime.
I dare you to stop some of the Law Enforcement Officers on the street to thank them for being there and protecting everyone. It is such a small thing to say “Thank you!” but it makes a big impact on the men and women who serve us.
So...what do you say? Will you take the dare?
Come on out…I dare you!
Keith "Col. Harvey" Brown
