ANDY!

Whoever said that all television would rot your mind must never have met Ken Anderson nor read his book, Mayberry Reflections: The Early Years. The book is a self-proclaimed plot summary and collection of personal reflections on the first four seasons of the 1960s series The Andy Griffith Show. By attempting to explain what he perceives as important values (which each episode tried to instill in viewers), Mr. Anderson is sharing his own positive experience of the show, currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Taking his initiative to the next level, Mr. Anderson has been performing a PowerPoint presentation for various groups of people, aimed at sharing what he feels is a way to deal with the accumulating stresses in his life. Looking back to a not-so-distant, yet often overlooked era (when television was simpler and devoid of so many ulterior motives) creates a feeling of familiarity, nostalgia, and peace. One of the best things about the show in Anderson’s opinion is its appeal to multiple generations; there’s a little something for everyone. Reruns are still being aired today, and it’s a great thing when an 80 year-old and an 8 year-old both know who Barney Fife is. To top it off, Mr. Anderson has a complete replica of a Mayberry Sheriff’s uniform, which he dutifully wears at each and every one of his presentations. If that doesn’t give this fan some authenticity, I don’t know what does. For more info, or to find out when and where he will be presenting next, check out his site www.mayberryreflections.com.