Coming up in Archie Comics

ARCHIE #599
"Return to Riverstock": It's peace, love and rock 'n roll as Archie Comics commemorates the 40th anniversary of the original Woodstock concert/cultural happening! Join The Archies and all their friends as they enjoy the "Riverstock Festival!" When those friends include Riverdale's resident "flower child" Mustang Sally, you know you're in for a groovy time! The kids use their concert as an opportunity to promote environmental issues, and their parents see the event as a chance to relive and reminisce about their own experiences at the original Riverstock. In addition to all the music, fun and positive vibes, this story is filled with the best the '60s had to offer - from peace symbols to colorful fashions to the favored rock instruments of the decade, it's all here in this tuneful tale! It's all brought to you by no less an authority than Hal Lifson, author of the swingin' sixties pop culture tome, "Hal Lifson's 1966!"
SCRIPT: Hal Lifson
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Mower Madness": Archie cuts lawns to raise the entry fee for the big go-kart race, but can he "cut it" against his speedy competitors?
SCRIPT: John Rose
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Beach Brouhaha": Archie learns summer jobs are no day at the beach, even when those jobs are ON the beach!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 22, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 4, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #133
"Archie is History Part 2 of 2": Last issue, Archie and his friends went to Washington, D.C. to take part in a living history festival - where everyone dons costumes of their favorite historical figures! But now Archie's wallet is history - it's been mysteriously stolen and everyone's return bus tickets are inside! Meanwhile, Reggie tries making political power plays while Veronica tries making a real estate deal of historic proportions - literally! Before story's end, a valuable lesson about Honest Abe Lincoln is learned... and just wait until you see who's disguised as Ben Franklin! It's a trip through history filled with laughter and learning, as only the Archie gang can deliver!
SCRIPT: Arie Kaplan
ART: Pat Kennedy
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 21, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #256
"Reel Funny": Archie and Reggie bet one another a free meal for whoever can catch the most fish... now if only they can get the fish to cooperate! "Just Imagine": Whether he realizes it or not, Archie's summer job as kiddie pool lifeguard bears a striking resemblance to Mr. Weatherbee's position as principal!
SCRIPTS: Mike Pellowski
ART: Bob Bolling
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 29, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 11, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

ARCHIE'S DOUBLE DIGEST #200
SPECIAL MILESTONE 200th - AND THE LATEST IN THE "NEW LOOK" SERIES!
"Goodbye Forever": Archie's dad finally receives the promotion he's been working a lifetime for, but it comes at a price: the family must relocate and leave Riverdale! How will this affect Archie's two best girls, Betty and Veronica, not to mention his best friend, Jughead? Who will rise to bedevil Mr. Lodge and Mr. Weatherbee in Archie's absence? Can a hamburger and fries really taste the same if Archie isn't there to share Pop Tate's delectable dishes? Why even Reggie will miss having Archie around to play pranks on. It's the most poignant "New Look" story yet , rendered in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble" and "My Father's Betrayal," Jughead's "Match Makers," and Moose and Midge's "Break-up Blues" some of the most-talked about Archie stories in recent years! Multiple award-winning and nominated artist Norm Breyfogle brings his fine-tuned talents to this heart-tugging tale, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan.
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Norm Breyfogle
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 21, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

BETTY #181
"The Diva Wore Yada": A summer internship at "Harmon's Bazzar" fashion magazine brings Betty face-to-face with a demanding diva of a boss. Imagine Betty's surprise when the boss demands she model for the magazine's spring fashion spectacular! Celebrity news columnist Hal Lifson brings his fashionable first-hand perspective to this "tongue-in-chic" tale!
SCRIPT: Hal Lifson
ART: Stan Goldberg
"The Big Pitch": The "Good Will Girls" are back and their charity baseball game is a grand-slam success... especially with Betty pitching strikes from the mound and Archie pitching snacks in the stands!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Stan Goldberg
"Applause for Paws": Hot Dog makes a "splash"... by "catching a wave"... at the dog surfing contest!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic specialty shops: August 5, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 18, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA SPECTACULAR #90
SEE MORE STARS THAN ARE IN THE SOLAR SYSTEM IN THIS CELEBRITY-PACKED ISSUE!
"Star Struck": It's a boy band brouhaha, as Betty and Veronica get jobs as reporters for Ginger Lopez's "Glitz Magazine" and have a controversial run-in with The Juneau Brothers! "Paparazzi Problem": To gossip or not to gossip... that is the rumor! "Sign Me Up": Mr. Lodge reveals a sensational secret from his past: he once dated a celebrity! All this, plus pop-culture extras like a Hollywood quiz, celebrity fashions, and more!
SCRIPTS AND ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 15, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 28, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #196
"The Past Will Haunt You": By popular demand, secret agents Betty & Veronica (last seen in BETTY & VERONICA SPECTACULAR #87) return! Last time, those super secret spies with the chic mystique, Betty and Veronica saved Archie with the help of some high tech gadgets from Dilton, not to mention a mystery operative. Just who was she, and what is her connection to Archie? Don't miss the mysterious answer!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
"A Bad Attitude": The gang learns if there's one thing that spreads faster than bad news, it's a bad attitude!
SCRIPT: Kathleen Webb
ART: Bob Bolling
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 22, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 4, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #173
THIS IS IT - THE THRILLING CONCLUSION TO THE MOST EXPLOSIVE "NEW LOOK" STORY YET!
"My Father's Betrayal Part 4": The latest "New Look" saga has rocked Riverdale, with Veronica and her friends facing off against Mr. Lodge and his constituents as the teens try to keep a beloved nature preserve from becoming an industrial park! This issue, the debate reaches a fever pitch, and someone may just get hurt! Can the two sides resolve their differences peacefully and constructively? Is there a compromise yet to be considered or will the opponents stay deadlocked forever? It's the explosive conclusion you just can't miss, served up in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble" Jughead's "Match Makers," and Moose and Midge's "Break-up Blues" some of the most-talked about Archie stories in recent years! Famous superhero art team and Eisner Award nominees Rick Burchett and Terry Austin lend their formidable penciling and inking talents to this intriguing tale, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan.
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Rick Burchett and Terry Austin
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: August 5, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 18, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

JUGHEAD #196
"Tortoise vs. Hare": A charity run at the zoo brings a challenge from Ethel: if she wins, Jughead owes her a month's worth of dates watching chick flicks. If he wins, she owes him dinner. But each faces a major obstacle - Ethel's job wearing mascot costumes finds her saddled in a turtle suit while Jughead must resist the lure of all the food vendors along the trail! Who will win? Will Jughead sacrifice mile marker snacks for a full course dinner? Will Ethel's cumbersome costume put the kibosh on canoodling at the multiplex? Don't get left behind in the pack... lace up your running shoes and race to reserve this issue today!
SCRIPT: Craig Boldman
ART: Rex Lindsey
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 29, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 11, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #152
"Theme Park Lark": Mr. Lodge asks Jughead for suggestions on his new amusement park... and is highly amused by all of those suggestions! But are those suggestions really just in jest?
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Beach Bot": It's sand, surf and circuitry when Dilton unveils his amazing new robot at Riverdale beach!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Bob Bolling
"Picture Perfect": Can Jughead shift his "focus" from food long enough to enter the photo contest?
SCRIPT AND ART: Jeff Shultz
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 22, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 4, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

PALS 'N' GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #133
First, Archie reprinted PEP COMICS #22 and ARCHIE COMICS #1 to celebrate Archie's 65th anniversary in ARCHIE DIGEST #236. Then, Jughead got the same treatment in JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #138. That was followed by BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #185, a special issue commemorating the anniversary of ARCHIE'S GIRLS BETTY & VERONICA #1 from 1950. Now, one of Archie's most (in)famous characters, Reggie Mantle is celebrated in this special edition of ARCHIE'S PESTS... er... ARCHIE'S PALS 'N GALS DIGEST! Archie Comics is pleased to present this vintage material once more, including one of Reggie's earliest appearances in JACKPOT #5 as well as the entire first issue of ARCHIE'S RIVAL REGGIE in its entirety.
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents.
"Reggie Meets Reggie": In addition to the classic tales, Reggie gets the same opportunity Archie, Jughead and Betty and Veronica received in the aforementioned issues: the opportunity for his present self to meet his past self! And since there's no one Reggie loves more than himself, we can't think of anyone he'd rather meet! It's all courtesy of a trip down "memory lane," that magical road that leads to all sorts of space-time continuum chaos! Will modern Reggie's jokes and pranks be "new" in the 1950s? Will he even have time to crack wise when he angers the '50s Moose? It's a Reggie story for the ages... literally!
SCRIPT: Fernando Ruiz
ART: Rex Lindsey
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 22, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 4, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH #104
THE THRILLING CONCLUSION TO YOUNG SALEM'S TALE!
"Finders - Keepers Part Four": Our look back at young Salem concludes in grand fashion! Our boy wizard must brave the dank caves and vicious Lizarymn to rescue his Uncle Mort from the evil wizard Todicus. Can Salem match up to Todicus's magic? Can he out-wit his leathery foe? Will the young wizard-in-training prevail in the most treacherous trial yet? There's only one way to find out - don't miss this fantas-magical finale!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Chad Thomas
Massively magical cover by Chad Thomas!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 29, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 11, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

TALES FROM RIVERDALE DIGEST #34
"Texting Trouble": Betty hopes her week spent at tennis camp will "serve" her well on the court. But will her tendency to text give her a case of tennis wrist?
SCRIPT: John Rose
ART: Pat Kennedy
"Archie & Me": Mr. Weatherbee contemplates how peaceful early retirement could be... until he realizes how boring it would be without Archie around!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Fernando Ruiz
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 15, 2009
On sale on newsstands: August 28, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

Timothy Gibbs launches new business

Marketing strategist. Textologist. Actor. Video game character. OK, we knew at least two of those. Builder of exceptional dwellings and retail environments. Yea, we knew that, too. Lover of red wine and chocolate. Skydiving. Definitely! Because we have photos of his skydiving in the "Send Me to Santa Barbara" fun fact book!

He's Timothy Gibbs, and to us he was the dashing Dash Nichols on our beloved "Santa Barbara." Now he's got something else on his resume: His new business, Gardenia, has officially launched. Billed as a "progressive branding and marketing laboratory committed to increasing sales figures, cultivating brand awareness and growing legacies" for each of its client's companies, products and services, Gardenia springs from two years of planning and months of work, Gibbs says.

The new company is essentially a merging of Gibbs' existing business ventures, which we explore a little in the "SB" fact book, and which include a construction company he founded in 1997 that’s based in New York City, with offices in Arizona and Tennessee (see Jrhdavis.com).

“I named it after Thomas Jefferson, and Rainer Maria Rilke is a famous poet. Miles Davis the performer, Edward Hopper is an oil painter," Gibbs told us in February in the interview for the book. "An interior design construction company that I named after those four artists, with Thomas Jefferson as an architect.”

Gibbs does have a manager and an agent and does still do auditions these days, but he certainly stays busy, besides. "I split my time up a lot," he said. "I spend a lot of time in different parts of the country and outside of the country these days a lot. My business is sort of at the spearhead of what’s happening economically speaking, so it's much slower these days and it’s changed the way I do business."

Book a trip with Veronica in the "Passport" collection

From Archie Comics

Pack your bags and renew your passport – it’s time to take a trip with Veronica! Several, in fact! Traveling is a way of life for this jetsetting rich girl, and now you can relive some of Veronica’s most memorable journeys in this trade paperback collection. Just make sure you’re ready for anything – in addition to seeing all the great historical sites and tourist attractions, Veronica’s been known to get involved with mysteries and adventures … not to mention a local boy or two!

This full-color edition collects some of the more popular globe-trekking tales from the early issues of VERONICA. When the series debuted in 1989, readers were intrigued by the notion of one jetsetting trip after another. Even the New York Times picked up on the story, most likely thrilled that Manhattan would be one of the glamorous destinations of comic books’ favorite rich girl!

In this handsome volume, you’ll feel as if you’re traveling right alongside Veronica, sharing worldwide romance and intrigue along with Mr. and Mrs. Lodge, family friend Lady Smitty and special guest stars. You’ll thrill to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum in France! You’ll marvel at the Pantheon and Colosseum in Rome! Step right up and take a tour of a Bollywood studio and sample the sights and sounds of the city of Bombay in India! And let’s not forget scaling the heights of the Empire State Building and crossing the famous Brooklyn Bridge in New York City! These are just a few of the marvelous landmarks you’ll learn about as you share hilarious travels with Veronica. You’ll also enjoy fabulous pin-ups of fashions from each destination!

As if that weren’t enough, you’ll have an opportunity to witness Veronica’s return trip to Paris in the pages of Veronica’s monthly comic book. In VERONICA #195, she jets off to Paris on a month-long trip and is reunited with Lady Smitty, the family friend who accompanied her on several trips over the years. It isn’t long before Veronica meets Lady Smitty’s nephew who just happens to be a hunk named Archie! The French Archie shows Veronica all the sights – the shops along the Champs Elysees , the Arc de Triomphe, the Moulin Rouge, the Louvre museum and more! But what will happen when the Archie back in the U.S. finds out about Veronica’s new friend? It’s a tale of international love and adventure as only Veronica can get into, and the perfect lead-in to the VERONICA’S PASSPORT trade paperback collection shipping this June!

VERONICA #195
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 14, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

VERONICA’S PASSPORT VOLUME ONE
SCRIPTS: Hal Smith, George Gladir, Kathleen Webb, Chris Allan and Mark Waid
ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 24, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 7, 2009
ISBN #: 978-1-879794-43-6
96-page, full-color trade paperback
$9.95 U.S.

Spotted: Albert Salmi

On "Dallas," he was Gil Thurmond, the slimy refinery owner who put the moves on both Sue Ellen Ewing and Afton Cooper while he was pitching deals to their men, J.R. Ewing and Cliff Barnes. A couple decades before that, though, Albert Salmi was equally slimy in a keen role on the black-and-white "Alfred Hitchcock Hour."

In the episode "I'll Be the Judge, I'll Be the Jury," Salmi is certainly shifty, too. He not only tried to run over a young couple with his car in Mexico, but he's also suspected of later killing the woman. A young, solid and dashing Peter Graves is his adversary in this tense tale, playing the husband of the young woman and the man who must attempt to gain Salmi's trust and get him to confess to the crime in this wayward place south of the border. The bespeckled, nervous Salmi effectively becomes a cornered animal. But then Graves comes up missing, and two of his friends then take it upon themselves to try to sting Salmi.

Explosive "new look" saga continues in Betty & Veronica Double Digest

From Archie Comics

The latest "New Look" saga has rocked Riverdale, with Veronica and her friends facing off against Mr. Lodge and his constituents as the teens try to keep a beloved nature preserve from becoming an industrial park! The problem came to light in BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #170 and things really heated up in issue #171. The debate rages on in "My Father's Betrayal, Part 3!" in issue #172, shipping this June.

Factory or forest? New jobs and low taxes or clear streams and tall trees? Now the protest hits the pavement as both sides hit the streets to march and counter-march. What will happen when both sides meet in front of Lodge industries? With Mr. Lodge leaning to one side of the argument, what will this do the Lodge family? The stakes are higher than ever as relationships hang in the balance. It's the most poignant "New Look" tale yet!

Back in the spring of 2007, the world of Archie Comics was rocked by the publication of BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #151, featuring the first installment of "Bad Boy Trouble," an epic tale that ran through issue #154 and found Riverdale's favorite teens rendered in a realistic style!

The "New Look" inspired months and months of debate and media coverage... and was so intriguing to fans that it led to further "New Look" sagas, including Jughead dealing with a bunch of "Matchmakers" in JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #139-142 and Moose and Midge's time-tested romance put to the test in "Breakup Blues," chronicled in PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #125-128.

Now, the "New Look" has returned to its roots, with the latest story to portray the famous Riverdale teens in a "realistic" style once again appearing in the pages of BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST.

Famous superhero art team and Eisner Award nominees Rick Burchett and Terry Austin lend their formidable penciling and inking talents to this intriguing tale, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan. It's the "new look" story you just can't afford to miss!

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #172
"My Father's Betrayal, Part 3": The latest "New Look" saga has rocked Riverdale, with Veronica and her friends facing off against Mr. Lodge and his constituents as the teens try to keep a beloved nature preserve from becoming an industrial park! This issue, the debate rages on. Factory or forest? New jobs and low taxes or clear streams and tall trees? Now the protest hits the pavement as both sides hit the streets to march and counter-march. What will happen when both sides meet in front of Lodge industries? It's the story you just can't afford to miss, served up in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble," Jughead's "Matchmakers," and Moose and Midge's "Breakup Blues" some of the most talked-about Archie stories in recent years! Famous superhero art team and Eisner Award nominees Rick Burchett and Terry Austin lend their formidable penciling and inking talents to this intriguing tale, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan.
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Rick Burchett and Terry Austin
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 14, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

Diahann Carroll guests on Tavis Smiley show

The web administator for the official site of Diahann Carroll, our own Dominique Deveraux of "Dynasty," passes along this news. Carroll will be a guest on the Tavis Smiley Show on July 10. Details

Tavis Smiley Show
Friday, July 10, 2009
Guests: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade (University of Chicago Medical Center); Diahann Carroll and television writer Jessica Queller

Learn more about Smiley at PBS' site.

BRBTV birthdays for July

- Brock Peters, who voiced Lucius Fox on "Batman: The Animated Series," was born on July 2, 1927 and died on August 23, 2005.
- Signy Coleman, our Celeste DiNapoli of "Santa Barbara," who also did an 1987 episode of "Dallas," turns 49 on Independence Day.
- Rosemary Forsyth, the original Sophia Capwell (and Dominic) of "SB," and Anne McFadden on "Dallas," turns 66 on July 6.
- Grant Goodeve, who was Chris Deegan on "Dynasty," also has a birthday on July 6, turning 57.
- Deborah Tranelli, our own Phyllis Wapner of "Dallas," turns 54 on July 6.
- Kimberly Foster, who portrayed Michelle Stevens on "Dallas," is our fourth July 6 birthday, turning 48.
- Cree Summer, Terry's buddy Max on "Batman Beyond," turns 40 on July 7.
- William Smithers, who was Jeremy Wendell on "Dallas," turns 82 on July 10.
- Michael Rosenbaum, who voiced several characters in "Batman Beyond" (Ollie, Carl, Wendell), "Justice League" (the Flash) and the like, and whom BRBTV will miss very much on the CW's "Smallville," turns 37 on July 11.
- Sandy Ward, who played Jeb Ames on "Dallas," was born on July 12, 1926, and died on March 6, 2005.
- Dale Robertson, who was Walter Lankershim on "Dynasty" and Frank Crutcher on "Dallas," turns 86 on July 14.
- Ken Kercheval, our unforgettable Cliff Barnes of "Dallas," turns 74 on July 15.
- Derek McGrath, who was the eccentric Oswald Valentine on "Dallas," turns 60 on July 15.
- Barbara Stanwyck, the legendary film star who was Constance Colby on "The Colbys," was born on July 16, 1907 and died on January 20, 1990.
- Diahann Carroll, the songstress who vexed Alexis as Dominique Devereaux on "Dynasty," turns 74 on July 17.
- Audrey Landers, who was Afton Cooper on "Dallas" and a couple roles on "The Dukes of Hazzard," turns 50 on July 18.
- George Dzundza, the voice of the Ventriloquist on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 64 on July 19.
- Paul Burke, the second C.C. Capwell of "Santa Barbara," who also did a memorable turn on "Dynasty" as Neal McVane, turns 83 on July 21.
- Art Hindle, who brokered babies as Jeff Farraday on "Dallas," turns 61 on July 21.
- Lenore Kasdorf, the lovely Caroline Wilson on "SB," turns 61 on July 23.
- James Best, our own Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane of "The Dukes of Hazzard," turns 83 on July 26.
- Dierdre Imershein, who was the caught-in-the-middle Jory Taylor on "Dallas," turns 46 on July 26.
- Keenan Wynn, the second Digger Barnes on "Dallas," was born on July 27, 1916 and died on October 14, 1986.
- Sasha Mitchell, another "Dallas" alum as long-lost Ewing son James Beaumont, turns 42 on July 27.
- Lloyd Bochner, who was Cecil Colby on "Dynasty," was born on July 29, 1924 and died on October 29, 2005.
- David Warner, who was the commanding and ghoulish Ra's al Ghul on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 68 on July 29.
- Ben Piazza, our own Walt Driscoll of "Dallas," was born on July 30, 1934, and died on September 7, 1991.
- Susan Flannery, who played Leslie Stewart on "Dallas," turns 70 on July 31.
- Lane Davies, the unforgettable original Mason Capwell on "Santa Barbara," who showed up on "Dallas" as Craig Gurney, also has a birthday on July 31, turning 59.


Happy birthday to all!
And happy Independence Day!!!

Archie Comics names new CEO, plans mondo stuff for San Diego Comic-Con

OK, when they say "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE," they sometimes have to take a back burner while we get some hot-hot-hot event coverage out of the way, but better late than never to run a couple intriguing Archie press releases ...

From Archie Comics

MAMARONECK, NY - As the son of Archie Comics founder John L. Goldwater, new CEO Jon Goldwater looks forward to expanding the role of his family’s company, Archie Comics Publications, in prominence in the comic book medium as well as other media.

Jon Goldwater began his career 20 years ago as the partner to the Japanese concert promoter, Zak Concerts. On Zak Concerts' behalf, Jon Goldwater negotiated concert major tours of Japan include the "Super Rock Festival" and many others. He is the former President and CEO of AFA Music Group, Ltd., the Executive Producer of the film, "Return of Superfly", He has served as President and CEO of Crash Management Inc.

Using his experience in the entertainment industry he plans on focusing his attention on a variety of family entertainment projects from his family business, suitable for your family. Jon Goldwater plans on bringing the kids from Riverdale to a larger multi-media audience. He is also looking ahead to developing new projects focusing on not just Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jugehead and Reggie, but other long standing Archie Properties such as Katy Keene, Lil Jinx, the Red Circle Heroes, Sabrina, Josie & the Pussycats, Cosmo The Merry Martian, Pat The Brat, Wilbur Wilkins, Bingo Wilkins, Suzie and Ginger Snapp. just to name a few.

Jon Goldwater purchased an ownership interest in the company with the intent of making Archie Comic entertainment powerhouse. In his first few days as CEO he has already started negotiations on projects that will be announced shortly, including a big budget Archie feature film, a new Archie animated project, a Katy Keene television program and a major music deal for the Archies. Every effort will me made to bring all the Archie Comics properties to the forefront of the entertainment industry.

Also in Archie news ...

ARCHIE ANDREWS MARRIES VERONICA LODGE PANEL @ SDCC

SAN DIEGO: COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL
San Diego Convention Center
111 W. Harbor Dr.
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 491-2475
www.comic-con.org

Thursday, July 23, 2009
11:30-12:30
ROOM 4

It's the wedding of the century, but that is just the start, with plenty of surprise announcements about the future of Archie Comics, including the latest news about Archie on television and in feature films! The creators and staff of Archie Comics are coming to San Diego to talk to the fans directly about all the excitement.

Panelists include legendary "The Dark Knight" movie producer and Archie writer, Michael Uslan, new Archie Comics CEO Jon Goldwater, iVerse CEO Michael Murphy, IDW Publishing COO Greg Goldstein, Archie Comics President/Director of Circulation Fred Mausser, and Archie Comics Vice President/Managing Editor Mike Pellerito. The panel will be moderated by Archie's Public Relations Coordinator Rik Offenberger and will feature a question and answer session with the fans. An Archie Marries Veronica poster will be given to everyone attending the panel.

THERE WILL BE MANY EXITING NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS ABOUT THE FUTURE OF ARCHIE COMICS, THIS IS ONE PANEL YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

Professional Stuntman Invitational: Other odds and ends

This week's coverage of the Professional Stuntman Invitational rounds out with some bits and pieces from different aspects of the show. Thanks so much to Wayne and Donna Wooten, Tom Sarmento and the Hazzard County Stunt Team for putting a whole lot of work into a great event!



Generals Lee (left) and Longstreet took in the event, and we're guessing the 95-degree heat was considerably more comfortable than the battlefield!


Yea, buddy, you flex that muscle ... Our friend Byron ("Coy Duke") Cherry, right, needs little prodding to ham it up.

You know you've pulled into the right hotel on Friday evening when you see a Lee and a sheriff's car side by side. 'Twas the Sleep Inn off exit 50 of I-95, by the way.


One of the show's features was a chance to "smack an import." Since the BRBTV corporate car (a Ford Taurus) just died a few weeks ago and we were in a rental that was slightly-less-than-American, we won't comment ...

This car is a replica of the very first Lee jumped on "The Dukes." This one made a special commemorative jump at the same site, Oxford College near Covington, Georgia, in 2005.


Fellow author Jon Holland, who was at the track signing his own "Dukes" book, stopped by BRB's signing table to chat. Jon is working on a new "Dukes" book that's sure to be much-talked-about. He's had some great unexplored territory to dig into, as far as "Dukes" history goes, and he's been pounding the pavement for public records. Look for that hot book --a book that will reveal some surprising truths -- later this year!


We mentioned on Monday that there was a "Dukes"-themed engagement at the show -- a real memory-maker. Well, here's the happy couple earlier that day. Little did Rusty's special lady know, at this point ... and when he proposed she was sure shocked! She had no idea that was coming, she told us later.


BRB had a great time at the event, signing not only books, but an occasional car, too! Many thanks to all who stopped by the table to chat. We'll see ya at the next "Dukes" event!

Photos, except the one directly above, by Billie Rae Bates / BRBTV

Copying with credit is OK; a link would be grand!

Professional Stuntman Invitational: Here's a car you probably haven't seen ... at least in person ...

You know, we're always so amazed at the creativity we see when we attend car shows such as this past weekend's Professional Stuntman Invitational in Concord, N.C. Oh sure, we get used to seeing the beautiful blazin'-orange General Lees and the abundance of sheriff's cars from "The Dukes of Hazzard." We also note the occasional Daisy Jeep, or Boss Hogg Caddy. The "Back to the Future" car tends to pop up now and then. But today, our coverage of the Invitational continues as we take a look at a quite unique vehicle making one of its first car-show appearances.

Take a close look, now. Does it remind you of anything? Maybe a movie you saw once ... maybe in your youth ... back in the '80s? Maybe the first of a series of movies ... starring Chevy Chase?



Yes, it's the Family Truckster of National Lampoon's "Vacation." Or a very nice replica of it. Right down to the luggage and the ... er, family member ... on the roof (not a real family member, of course! or even a real person! and take heart -- there was no dog on the leash in the back!).

Gary Schneider, known so well in the "Dukes of Hazzard" community for his General Lee story, brought this attention-getter to the show. He tells BRBTV he's owned the car for about a year, and he just completed it a month ago. He's taken it to a couple other car shows around his local Chicago area, but this is the first bigger show for the Truckster, which also made some laps around the track at the Concord Motorsports Park on Saturday. And this beauty didn't get trailered here like some of the other unique autos -- it made the drive itself, all the way from Chicago.

Designed by George Barris, the Wagon Queen Family Truckster was a fictional car created for the 1983 movie and based on a Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon. Schneider's is actually a 1986 model, which he says is the same body style as 1983. Don Schisler, former transportation director of "The Dukes of Hazzard" who just recently passed away, also served as the process car driver in "Vacation" and inspired Gary to build the car. Schisler provided him with a rarity -- the only known remaining crown emblem from the cars. You can see some construction photos of the Truckster at MyFamilyTruckster.com.

And just so ya know ... it might seem like it, but this is not the only Family Truckster out there. At least one more exists, Schneider says, in Missouri.

Besides the Truckster, there were plenty of other star cars inside the track for the event, such as Herbie, the "Smokey and the Bandit" Trans Am and, of course, lots'o Lees ...

Photos by Billie Rae Bates / BRBTV

Copying with credit is OK; a link would be grand

Professional Stuntman Invitational: Greg Evigan

Since the mid-'70s, Greg Evigan has done everything on TV from starring roles on "B.J. and the Bear" and "My Two Dads" to guest stints on "CSI: Miami," "Touched By an Angel," "Melrose Place" and beyond. And though we were fervent fans of B.J. McKay way back when, there's only thing BRBTV wanted to know when we chatted with Evigan outside the host hotel for this past weekend's Professional Stuntman Invitational.

"What do you remember about your 'Dallas' episode?"

He laughed. "I remember not liking being thrown on the hood of the car at the end of the episode!"

True enough, Bobby Ewing, as played by the hunky Patrick Duffy, was none too fond of Evigan's Willie Gust, who kidnapped Lucy in that episode. By the time Bobby tracked down the hooligan and his semi-reluctant prey, this Ewing uncle was fumin' mad. Evigan, well over 6-foot, also recalls -- with a chuckle -- the difference in height between himself and the diminutive Charlene Tilton. The episode, "Runaway," aired very early in the series, in 1978, not too long before Evigan scored his gig on "B.J. and the Bear."


So what does Evigan (shown above with Will "the Voice Man" Rodgers, emcee of the Invitational) have going on nowadays, besides appearances at events like this one? Producing, actually. He's got a few different projects he's producing now, including a reality show. One particular project, a movie for the Sci Fi Channel called "Phantom Racer," will air this fall and will feature Evigan in front of the camera, as well. He plays J.J. Sawyer in this tale of a racecar driver from beyond the grave. Former "Baywatch" babe Nicole Eggert is also on board.



As you can see, Evigan signed a variety of photos at the Invitational. Directly above, he's chatting with Byron ("Coy Duke") Cherry of "The Dukes of Hazzard," second from left.

One special feature of the event was the presence of another star from "B.J. and the Bear," that is, an actual rig used in the show's filming. The truck was reportedly lost for a couple decades then purchased and fixed up. Its owner, a truck driver himself, keeps it in pristine condition, even taking it out now and then. Below, BRBTV caught it just coming off the racetrack after a few laps.

Photos by Billie Rae Bates / BRBTV

Copying with credit is OK; a link would be grand

Professional Stuntman Invitational: An overview

Did you ever see -- live and in person -- the "A-Team" van leaping through the air, some racing and wrecking, a couple Confederate generals, Boss Hogg proposing marriage, and the rig from "B.J. and the Bear" doing laps? Well, you did if you were at this past weekend's Professional Stuntman Invitational at the Concord Motorsports Park in North Carolina. The Hazzard County Stunt Team, Mr. Wayne Wooten, and a crew of dedicated professionals sure put on a good show, and this week the BRBTV News Blog has four full days of photos and tidbits from the event for your viewing pleasure.

The event celebrated the work of seasoned stuntmen from shows and movies like "Die Hard," "Rush Hour 3," "Twilight," "The Fall Guy," "Knight Rider," "Sliders" and, of course, "The Dukes of Hazzard." Buzz Bundy, Tom Sarmento, Ted Barba, James Smith, Lee Smith, Russell Solberg ... some of the biggest names in the stunt industry put on the thrills and chills for fans at the Invitational, which ran all day Saturday and Sunday in some rather-brutal heat that soared through the 90s. The stuntmen also signed autographs, and they were joined at the event by several big classic TV actors: Greg Evigan, Sonny Shroyer, Don Pedro Colley, Byron Cherry and Rick Hurst, along with Jerry Rushing, the man who inspired "The Dukes of Hazzard."

Emceed by Will ("The Voice Man") Rodgers, the two days at the track featured racing, vending, rides in star cars, a fabulous stunt show (our favorite part, truth be told!) and a display of collectible autos with everything from the General Lee to Herbie the Love Bug and the notorious Christine. And, just to assure that the event would be remembered, avid Boss Hogg fan Rusty, clad in his lily white suit, proposed to his fiancee there in front of the crowd. The box holding the diamond ring was passed along by the various celebs until Rusty finally laid claim to it, then gingerly laid down a white towel so he could descend to one knee. "I was so nervous," he said later that night. "I don't even remember what I said." Well, we were sure glad that white suit wasn't flannel like Sorrell Booke really wore on "The Dukes"!

Tom Sarmento of the Hazzard County Stunt Team was behind the wheel of this "A-Team" replica van for the stunt show on Saturday night. The van's big jump followed a two-wheel ski stunt by James Smith, and preceded a race that culminated in a truly horrific-looking crash. Below, the crew rushes to get Sarmento out of the van -- but don't worry, he was fine! He's done this before!

Here's another van that took a beating, below ... Might know better next time not to be in the way when the No. 32 car goes a little out of control after a big race ...




Sonny Shroyer, our beloved Enos Strate of "The Dukes," hams it up for a young fan at the beginning of his signing on Sunday. Strate had a variety of memorabilia and photos with him ...

Rick Hurst, who was Cletus Hogg on the show, chats with fans, as well.

Tune in tomorrow as our coverage continues with a classic star we got to meet for the first time ...

Photos by Billie Rae Bates / BRBTV

Copying with credit is OK; a link would be grand

Vincent Irizarry joins third Soap Cruise

Hey, "Santa Barbara" fans, ever wonder what it would be like to go on a cruise with Dr. Scott Clark? Well, he's not Scott Clark these days -- he's Dr. David Hayward on ABC's "All My Children," but the sentiment is there nonetheless! Irizarry is part of a yummy slate of soap stars embarking on the third voyage of the Soap Cruise.

Leaving Miami on Thursday, January 28, 2010, and returning on the following Monday, February 1, Soap Cruise is one long weekend we're betting you'd never forget. (BRBTV is tempted to go, just to hang with "GH's" Spinelli!) You've gotta book now, though, because the first 150 people get a special VIP breakfast with the stars.

Catch all the details at SoapCruise.com.

That's not the only appearance on Irizarry's schedule for the coming months. He'll also be at the Connecticut Women's Expo in Hartford, on Saturday, September 12 from noon to 4 p.m. Get the details at http://www.ctexpos.com/cwe.

Terri Garber: Plum soap roles, on top of a great career

Our BRBTV interviews with stars of the classic '80s soap "Santa Barbara" continue, and this time we've got a double-shot: The lovely Terri Garber was not only Suzanne Collier in the latter days of "SB," she also was the incredibly memorable Leslie Carrington on our beloved "Dynasty."

Years before that, however, Garber had what many would consider her kingpin role, that of the feisty Ashton Main on the wildly popular "North and South" miniseries of the '80s. It's that role, a role she seemed downright born to play, that most fans remember her by. We had to ask her, when we spoke with her earlier this month, if she had any concerns about being forever labeled a "bad girl."

"I wasn’t concerned about being typecast," she replied. “'Bad girls' are the most fun to play."

Well, on "Dynasty," she was a mixture of good and bad, truth be told. Though Leslie initially played a bit wicked, there were elements of her character that showed a softer side. Take her daughter-like relationship with her Uncle Blake, for instance.

"I never really think of any of my characters as 'bad girls,'" she says. "I try to think of legitimate reasons why they do the things they do. I don’t think a person that does bad things ever really thinks of themselves as a bad person. They feel justified in what they are doing. I think the wavering was because the writers couldn’t decide how they wanted to portray Leslie. At the time I had just completed 'North and South,' and Ashton wasn’t the sweet girl next door (ha-ha) and that’s what the audience liked about my acting ... So the writers were having some issues on how to bring that into a character that started out sweet and searching for her father. Leslie did soften with Blake. How could you not? What a wonderful actor to work with. He brought the vulnerability out of Leslie where no one else could. I guess the father figure she was searching for was in Blake."

Perhaps a bigger challenge for the writers, however, was in Garber's entrance onto daytime soap "SB." It was 1991, and fan-fave Marcy Walker, as Eden Capwell, had just left the show. Eden was suspected to be dead, then was really alive and disguised as her friend Suzanne Collier, then she up and left the love of her life, Cruz Castillo, and her family! How much trauma can a fan endure? Enter Garber as (gasp!) the real Suzanne Collier ...

"Yes, it was very difficult to step into that show, and the character was never accepted, so off she went," Garber says. "The fans were rabid for Cruz and Eden and didn’t want anyone else coming in there. I got some vicious fan mail."

(BRBTV has no trouble believing that!) But the work on "SB" was not all drudgery, thankfully.

"I loved working with A Martinez," she says. "He was a joy. He really worked hard, came prepared and was a complete professional. I like that from someone I’m working with because I try to do the same. Everyone was really nice on that show. There really wasn’t anyone that I didn’t enjoy working with."

Beyond "SB," Garber took roles here and there on various TV shows, then landed another soap role, Iris Dumbrowski on "As the World Turns," from 2005-2007. New York-based these days, Garber enjoys volunteer work and a whole lotta baking -- she graduated recently from what she calls an "intensive pastry class."

You can read the complete BRBTV interview with Ms. Garber in the next edition of the reference guide "Send Me to Santa Barbara," as well as in the next e-book version of "Dynasty High."

Photo courtesy of Terri Garber; copy at your own risk

Create your own classic '80s TV scene -- and win some cash

We've got to admit, it sounded like an intriguing concept, when we got the email for the '80s Mania Video Contest. Create a scene from your favorite 1980s TV show or film. Our imagination ran wild. A catfight between Alexis and Krystle on "Dynasty"? (And which one? There were so many!) Luke Duke skidding across the hood in "The Dukes of Hazzard," and the boys speeding off, pursued by Rosco? J.R. Ewing pushing Cliff Barnes into the Southfork deal, or cutting that deal behind his daddy or bro's back, on "Dallas"? Mason and C.C. Capwell trapped in the wine cellar, drunkenly singing and joking together, on "Santa Barbara"?

The choices are endless, and GotCast.com has your opportunity:
http://www.gotcast.com/casting-calls/80s-Mania-Video-Contest/54282

After you and your costars have filmed this great treasure, you upload your video to YouTube and tag it with the word "GotCast." Then you link the video to your GotCast account and assign it to the '80s Mania Contest.

So hey ... let us know how you do!

Coming up in Archie Comics

ARCHIE #598
"The Volunteer": Archie volunteers to spend time with an elderly man at the seniors' home, and learns he's not the only one caught in the middle of an eternal love triangle!
SCRIPT: Barbara Slate
SCRIPTS: Stan Goldberg
"Tree's Company": Archie enjoys the tree in his backyard... until Reggie reminds him how much work it will bring come fall!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Stan Goldberg
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 24, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 7, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #132
"One Nation, Under Archie, Part 1 of 2": Archie and his friends head for Washington, D.C. to take part in a living history festival - where everyone dons costumes of their favorite historical figures! Does Archie have what it takes to portray a Revolutionary War hero? Will Betty and Veronica fight over who will wear the Medieval Princess gown? Can Jughead rustle up some grub as a wild west cowboy? What kind of scoundrel will Reggie dress as? It's a trip through history filled with laughter and learning, as only the Archie gang can deliver!
SCRIPT: Arie Kaplan
ART: Pat Kennedy
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 10, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 23, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

ARCHIE DIGEST #255
"Double ‘W' Date": When Mr. Weatherbee's away, the boys will play...and their game of choice is "who will ask Wendy Weatherbee out first?!"
SCRIPT AND ART: Fernando Ruiz
"Wave Rave": Archie rides the waves on a surftastic day...but will he keep his eyes on the foamy waves or wavy forms of the bikini babes watching?
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Bob Bolling
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 24, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 7, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA #242
"Fashion Detectives": When big-name designers seek someone to help them expose counterfeit merchandise in stores, they turn to a true expert: Veronica! She's recruited both Betty and Nancy to help her, but what they uncover is more than faux fashion! Don't miss the high-fashion fun and intrigue!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Scenery": The story that proves one person's (Mr. Lodge's) idea of a private, peaceful beach is another's (Veronica's) idea of an isolated, boring beach!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Pets Rule": The beach has gone to the dogs - literally - as the girls convince the town to reserve a special area of the beach for people's pooches!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 17, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 30, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DIGEST #195
"Betty in Wonderland": Betty reads "Alice in Wonderland" to the kids she's babysitting and realizes the characters are just like her friends in Riverdale. Deciding to tell the story from her point of view, she casts Veronica as "The Queen of Hearts" and offers Archie readers a chance to watch the whole Archie gang "through the looking glass!"
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
"Growing Pains": Betty and Veronica reminisce about how Veronica just had to have all the best, most expensive toys as a child...so what's changed?! Features "Little Archie" flashbacks from fan-favorite Bob Bolling.
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Bob Bolling
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 17, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 30, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #172
"My Father's Betrayal, Part 3": The latest "New Look" saga has rocked Riverdale, with Veronica and her friends facing off against Mr. Lodge and his constituents as the teens try to keep a beloved nature preserve from becoming an industrial park! This issue, the debate rages on. Factory or forest? New jobs and low taxes or clear streams and tall trees? Now the protest hits the pavement as both sides hit the streets to march and counter-march. What will happen when both sides meet in front of Lodge industries? It's the story you just can't afford to miss, served up in the "realistic" art style that made Betty and Veronica's "Bad Boy Trouble," Jughead's "Matchmakers," and Moose and Midge's "Breakup Blues" some of the most talked-about Archie stories in recent years! Famous superhero art team and Eisner Award nominees Rick Burchett and Terry Austin lend their formidable penciling and inking talents to this intriguing tale, brought to you by "New Look" scribe Melanie J. Morgan.
SCRIPT: Melanie J. Morgan
ART: Rick Burchett and Terry Austin
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 14, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

JUGHEAD & FRIENDS DIGEST #33
"The Screen Test": Bow wows mean big box office, so when a film crew scouts Riverdale for pooches with personality, Jughead and Hot Dog make the "scene"...and plan to stay as long as craft services keeps dishing out yummy chow!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
"A Reel Pain": When a "reality" show crew comes to Riverdale, the gang learns that things aren't always as "real" as they look!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Fernando Ruiz
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 14, 2009
88-page, full-color digest
$2.69 U.S.

JUGHEAD'S DOUBLE DIGEST #151
"The Big Meltdown": Jughead pretends to date Ethel to keep himself stuffed with her delicious homemade cookies, but he's mortified when photos of Ethel feeding him spread across the internet. Will his pride lead to a "breakup," or are his cravings for sweets too strong?
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Pat Kennedy
"The Flip is a Flop": When Archie asks Jughead how to choose between Betty and Veronica, Jughead suggests he flip a coin...and flip some burgers in exchange for the advice!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Bob Bolling
"Fish Food": Jughead and his dad go on a fishing trip, and manage to catch a lot of snack food along the way!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Pat Kennedy
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 17, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 30, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

PALS-N-GALS DOUBLE DIGEST #132
"The Collectors": Dust off that knick-knack shelf - the gang is "collecting" their thoughts on the things they like to collect!
SCRIPT: George Gladir
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Test of Characters": Chuck and Nancy set out on a nice, peaceful stroll where they can be all alone...if only their friends didn't turn up around every corner!
SCRIPT: Mike Pellowski
ART: Jeff Shultz
"Pop Goes the Ringtone": Frankie, Maria and Brigitte record a catchy jingle for Pop's Chocklit Shoppe...and the burger biz has never been better!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
PLUS: Other new and classic tales!
SCRIPT AND ART: Various talents
BONUS: Puzzles, games and pin-ups!
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 10, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 23, 2009
176-page, full-color digest
$3.99 U.S.

SABRINA THE TEENAGE WITCH #103
"Finders Keepers, Part Three": THE SALEM SAGA CONTINUES! Things have gone from bad to worse for young Salem and his scruffy Uncle Mort. The wizard Todicus has been restored, but that spells even more trouble for our heroes! It's a race against time as Salem and Mort try to escape the Lizarmyn army. The question is - does everyone make it out? The answer may surprise you!
SCRIPT: Ian Flynn
ART: Chad Thomas
Massively magical cover by Chad Thomas!
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 17, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 30, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

VERONICA #195
"Archie or Archie": Veronica jets off to Paris on a month-long trip and is reunited with Lady Smitty, a family friend who accompanied Veronica on several trips over the years. It isn't long before Veronica meets Lady Smitty's nephew who just happens to be a hunk named Archie! The French Archie shows Veronica all the sights - the shops along the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Moulin Rouge, the Louvre museum and more! But what will happen when the Archie back in the U.S. finds out about Veronica's new friend? It's a tale of international love and adventure as only Veronica can get into, and the perfect lead-in to this month's VERONICA'S PASSPORT trade paperback collection spotlighting Veronica's most famous trips with her friend Lady Smitty!
SCRIPT AND ART: Dan Parent
On sale at comic specialty shops: July 8, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 14, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

VERONICA'S PASSPORT VOLUME ONE
Pack your bags and renew your passport - it's time to take a trip with Veronica! Several, in fact! Traveling is a way of life for this jet-setting rich girl, and now you can relive some of Veronica's most memorable journeys in this trade paperback collection. Just make sure you're ready for anything - in addition to seeing all the great historical sites and tourist attractions, Veronica's been known to get involved with mysteries and adventures...not to mention a local boy or two! It's worldwide romance and intrigue with Veronica, Mr. Lodge, family friend Lady Smitty and special guest stars. Thrill to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum in France! Marvel at the Pantheon and Colosseum in Rome! Tour a Bollywood studio and the city of Bombay in India! Scale the heights of the Empire State Building and cross the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City! These are just a few of the marvelous landmarks you'll learn about as you share hilarious travels with Veronica! Includes fabulous pin-ups of fashions from each destination!
SCRIPTS: Hal Smith, George Gladir, Kathleen Webb, Chris Allan and Mark Waid
ART: Dan Parent.
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 24, 2009
On sale on newsstands: July 7, 2009
96-page, full-color trade paperback
$9.95 U.S.

Lane Davies' next Shakespearean role opens soon in Tennessee

We've mentioned the Tennessee Shakespeare Festival before on this blog, and this year BRBTV will have the pleasure of attending the festival and seeing firsthand the performance of Lane Davies, our own (original) Mason Capwell of "Santa Barbara." (Look for a photo or two in latter July!)

If you're considering going to the show yourself, and even if you're not, you might enjoy the overview by The Murfreesboro Post on "The Bard in Bell Buckle." The first show, "A Midsummer Night's Dream," gets underway in just over a week. Thanks to Tracy for passing along this link!

This month, relive history with Archie and his friends

From Archie Comics

Archie and his friends are reliving history … and little do they know that reenacting history has a long history itself! Over the centuries, many historical events have been recreated by people acting out roles with faithful costumes and language. Such reenactments have included:

• The Roman restaging of famous battles as public spectacle
• Middle Age tournaments with historical themes from ancient cultures
• 19th century reenactments in Britain.
• 20th century commemorations of famous Russian military conquests
• Pageants celebrating great American events like the founding of St. Louis

To this day, historical reenactments, or “living history,” live on. Whether it’s a trip to Colonial Williamsburg, a Renaissance Faire, or one of many Civil War reenactments that occur each year, history is more alive than ever, thanks to the faithful role-players who don the costumes and mannerisms of their predecessors.

Now, Archie and his friends are making history too…but you won’t find it in a textbook. You’ll have to turn to ARCHIE & FRIENDS #132 to learn all about it. In the story “One Nation, Under Archie, Part 1,” Archie and his friends head for Washington, D.C. to take part in a living history festival – where everyone dons costumes of their favorite historical figures! Does Archie have what it takes to portray a Revolutionary War hero? Will Betty and Veronica fight over who will wear the Medieval Princess gown? Can Jughead rustle up some grub as a wild west cowboy? What kind of scoundrel will Reggie dress as? It’s a trip through history filled with laughter and learning, as only the Archie gang can deliver! Don’t miss the first part of this historical…and hysterical…two-part tale!

ARCHIE & FRIENDS #132
"One Nation, Under Archie, Part 1 of 2": Archie and his friends head for Washington, D.C. to take part in a living history festival -- where everyone dons costumes of their favorite historical figures! Does Archie have what it takes to portray a Revolutionary War hero? Will Betty and Veronica fight over who will wear the Medieval Princess gown? Can Jughead rustle up some grub as a wild west cowboy? What kind of scoundrel will Reggie dress as? It's a trip through history filled with laughter and learning, as only the Archie gang can deliver!
SCRIPT: Arie Kaplan
ART: Pat Kennedy
On sale at comic specialty shops: June 10, 2009
On sale on newsstands: June 23, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

Archie creators hit the road again

Archie Comics creators (from top) Teresa Davidson, Joe Staton, Jim Amash, John Workman and Ian Flynn, will be at the Heroes Convention the weekend of June 19-21. They will be signing books, doing sketches, talking on panels.

HEROES CONVENTION
1957 E. Seventh St.
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-375-7462
http://www.heroesonline.com/heroescon.html

Friday, June 19, 2009 : 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday, June 20, 2009 : 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, June 21, 2009 : 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

ADMISSION:
1-day Pass: $15 per person
3-day Pass: $30 per person
Kids 12 & Under get in FREE!

Erin Moore: A Capwell kid who's all grown up

She has some memories of interesting things from the set of our beloved "Santa Barbara," such as being chased around the room by Robin Mattson's Gina! You might only barely recognize her now, but you certainly will remember her antics as a young girl. She's Erin Moore, and with her twin sister Caitlin she shared the role of Samantha Wainwright Capwell, the baby we got to see become a little girl in the latter part of the series. BRBTV had the pleasure of chatting with Erin Moore about "SB" and what she's been up to since her days as the baby-contract kid of Julia and Mason.

Born Erin Elisabeth Moore in Glendale, California, in May 1987, this sweet gal is still into acting, for one thing. She's about to graduate from UCLA with a major of English and a minor in theater.
"I have been active in theatre for the last several years, actually," she tells BRBTV, "and I would love to get back into film and television. Now that I'm about done with school, I'm planning to devote more time to that. I really love what I've been doing with theatre, though, and honestly I'd be happy just doing Shakespeare and musicals!"

(Hmmm ... sounds a bit like her TV daddy, eh?)

Erin's actually been in a different kind of spotlight lately, too, in the recent news about actor James Franco's decision to pull out of his speaking engagement at this week's UCLA commencement ceremonies. Erin started the group that protested Franco's engagement, and she was included in the L.A. Times' coverage of the story. What began as a humble move on her part, simply to make the point that fellow student Franco was a peer, not a role model suitable for the speaking honor, sure got some ink.

Erin's twin Caitlin, meanwhile, just graduated from the University of Rochester with a dual major in Japanese and linguistics. She'll be pursuing a career as an elementary school teacher.

The two girls joined "SB" as babies in 1988, though Erin stayed on a year longer, until the very end of the series in 1993. So from those highly formative years, what exactly does Erin recall?

"There are so many scenes that I vividly remember!" she says. "One in particular was an episode in which I was in the hospital and Mason (Gordon Thomson) got into a fight with a male nurse, who was actually played by my real dad! I was pretty confused as to what to think of my real daddy fighting with my TV daddy. Another scene that stands out is from an episode close to the end of the series, when I fingerpainted on Lilly's wedding dress and Gina chased me around the living room. I was genuinely terrified!"

Indeed. Little Samantha not only sabotaged the dress for Lilly's nuptials to Ted Capwell, a blessed event so highly tended by Lilly's mom Gina, the girl also tucked away the invitations that were supposed to get mailed!

Ahhh ... the joy of youth. ... Youth on a popular soap opera, that is.

You can catch BRBTV's whole interview with Erin Moore in the next edition of the reference guide "Send Me to Santa Barbara." And look for an excerpt from another "SB" cast interview on this very blog in the next week or two ...

Photo courtesy of Erin Moore; copy at your own risk.

Archie Comics go digital with apps for iPhone

From Archie Comics

For the past 65 years you’ve only been able to read Archie Comics one way – on paper. Now that's changed. Archie Comics and iVerse Media have announced that Archie has gone digital and the first Archie Comics iPhone Apps are now available for download.

Experience Archie Andrews’ very first day of school at Riverdale High as he deals with bullies, best friends, and a love triangle that even 10th-grade geometry can’t solve! Now you can download the first issue of ARCHIE Freshman Year through the iTunes App Store — for free!

“Archie is one of the characters that define comics. When people think of comic books they typically think of superheroes and Archie. We’re very excited to bring such a great, family-friendly line of comics to the iPhone,” iVerse Media CEO Michael Murphey said. “What has impressed us the most is how forward-thinking the team at Archie Comics have been. The Digital Age of Comics is here, and Archie is leading the way.”

Originally published in Archie #587, FRESHMAN YEAR #1 is the first in a five-issue story arc and is a good starting point for new Archie fans. Also available is ARCHIE FRESHMAN YEAR #2 (Archie #588) for a 99-cent download to iPhone or iPod Touch. And keep your eyes peeled for the next three issues of ARCHIE Freshman Year coming soon!

"This is a great opportunity for getting our comics out to the millions of Archie fans worldwide. Michael Murphey and his team at iVerse are doing a tremendous job. iVerse is the perfect partner to bring Archie into the digital age," Jon Goldwater, CEO of Archie Comics, said. "We feel that with iVerse, Archie will attract new readers like never before, while offering a new and exciting way for our longtime fans to enjoy our comics. So whether you roll up your Archie comic in your back pocket or take it with you on your iPod, everything's Archie!"

More downloads will follow of Archie books like Little Archie, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Young Salem, and Katy Keene. Find out more at www.iversecomics.com/archie

BRBTV birthdays for June

- Robin Mattson, the second and perhaps liveliest Gina DeMott-Capwell-And-On-And-On on "Santa Barbara," turns 53 on June 1.
- David Haskell, the long-suffering Nick Hartley on "SB," was born on June 4, 1948 and died on August 30, 2000.
- Colleen Camp, the original Kristin Shepard on "Dallas," who also turned up as Bonnie Lane in the "Dukes of Hazzard" episode "Trouble at Cooter's," turns 56 on June 7.
- Alexis Smith, such a scene-eater as Lady Jessica Montford on "Dallas," was born on June 8, 1921 and died on the day after her birthday, 1993.
- Andrew Stevens, that young upstart Casey Denault on "Dallas," turns 54 on June 10.
- Sherman Howard, who was the voice of villain Derek Powers on "Batman Beyond," turns 60 on June 11.
- Adrienne Barbeau, the sultry voice of Catwoman on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 64 on June 11.
- Jenilee Harrison, the slightly ditzy Jamie Ewing on "Dallas," turns 50 on June 12.
- Waylon Jennings, our "Dukes of Hazzard" balladeer, was born on June 15, 1937 and died on February 13, 2002.
- Eileen Davidson, the last Kelly Capwell on "Santa Barbara," turns 50 on June 15.
- Aron Kincaid, the creepy Killer Croc on "Batman: The Animated Series," turns 69 on June 15.
- Joan Van Ark, Lucy's mom Valene Ewing on "Dallas" and its spinoff "Knots Landing," turns 66 on June 16.
- Nedra Volz, our bright and feisty Miz Tisdale on "Dukes," was born on June 18, 1908 and died on January 20, 2003.
- Leigh McCloskey, who is a BRBTV triple-shot as Mitch Cooper on "Dallas" and both Zack Kelton and Ethan Asher on "Santa Barbara," turns 54 on June 21.
- Monte Markham, who played Clint Ogden on "Dallas," turns 74 on June 21.
- Paula Irvine, who played the second Lilly Light Blake on "SB," was born the same year as BRB and turns a neat 41 on June 22.
- Ted Shackelford, who was Gary Ewing on "Dallas" and its spinoff, "Knots Landing," turns 63 on June 23.
- John McIntire, who was Sen. Sam Culver on "Dallas," was born on June 27, 1907 and died January 30, 1991.
- Pamela Bellwood, whom we saw flip that lightswitch on "Dynasty" more times than we care to count, turns 58 on June 26.

Happy birthday to all!!

Archie's getting married? Betty or Veronica? (or Cheryl?) The lucky girl is ...

We generally hang on to the Archie Comics PR items until the release dates of the issues draw closer, but this is such a hot item, we just had to get it up on the blog right away ... History is about to be made, folks ...

From Archie Comics

The eternal love triangle is the cornerstone of Archie Comics for over 65 years — and the bane of Archie Andrews' existence! In fact, over the years it has not only defined the Betty / Archie / Veronica relationship, but has even threatened to dismantle it a time or 20.

Never was this more evident than in the landmark “Love Showdown” storyline from 1994 and ’95. When Archie Comics announced that Archie Andrews may finally choose between Betty and Veronica once and for all, the response from the media, fans and retailers alike was unprecedented — and with good reason! The landmark "Love Showdown" storyline threatened the certainty of the love triangle and all it stood for, nearly bringing an end to the friendships of all three characters as Archie chose old flame Cheryl Blossom at story’s end!

Readers had nothing to fear, as ultimately Cheryl wore out her welcome in Riverdale. While she’s been an occasional presence (and to Betty and Veronica, an occasional nuisance) in the past 15 years, life has returned to normal for Archie and his friends. And that includes his seemingly never-ending inability to choose between Betty and Veronica, no matter how many times he takes them out.

Without question, the “Love Showdown” was the most talked-about, most publicized and most popular Archie Comics story ever … until now! The past 15 years’ worth of love triangle status quo really could be facing extinction in a story that will rock the world of everyone in Riverdale and be sure to keep people talking for months on end!

In fact, we’ll even go so far as to call it the Archie Story of the Century. With a title like “Archie Marries Veronica Part 1: The Proposal,” how could we call it anything else?!

Could it be true? Has Archie finally decided to take the plunge and propose to comics’ favorite rich girl? It sure looks that way! Earlier this year readers got a chance to relive “Freshman Year” with the famous teens of Riverdale High. Now make way for this special story that takes a look at Archie and his friends after they graduate college! What careers will they seek? Will the friends stay in Riverdale or disperse? What would lead Archie to have marriage on his mind? And why would he choose Veronica over Betty? How will Betty react? Can Archie shake off his klutzy past and hold down a steady job… for more than a month? Two things are certain: with the Lodges as hosts, this will be the biggest wedding Riverdale has ever seen … and the biggest Archie Comics story since the famous “Love Showdown!”

Acclaimed superhero movie producer Michael Uslan draws upon his lifelong love of Archie comic books to write this very special tale, rendered by legendary Archie Comics artist Stan Goldberg! The Archie story of the century begins here… don’t miss it!

ARCHIE #600
Shipping: August 12, 2009
On sale at comic specialty shops: August 19, 2009
On sale on newsstands: September 1, 2009
32-page, full-color comic
$2.50 U.S.

Spotted: James Farentino

A cocky young kid in white high-waisted pants. That's our boy Nick Toscanni of "Dynasty," known to the rest of the world as James Farentino. At least that was our boy back in 1962, when this episode of "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" originally aired.

A couple decades before his character fell for Krystle Carrington, Farentino played Bernie, the son of the owner of a boarding house in the Sydney Pollack-directed episode, called "The Black Curtain." Bernie notices something strange about one of the boarders, discovering he's secretly a mobster accused of murder. Bernie decides to cash in on this fact, in-between verbally harassing unsuspecting young ladies. And Farentino is pretty handsome as a young street-smart guy.

Watch the episode courtesy of Hulu and MSN TV here:
http://beta.video.msn.com/play/?pid=om_S9FOCZ4_nQFh1Jo2D4Dzxzx3C6qNG&v=hulu

John Schneider sells TV shows to 2 cable networks

Our own Bo Duke, Mr. John Schneider of "The Dukes of Hazzard," updated fans via email today, noting how he's been workin' some interesting angles on future TV lineups.

"I managed to sell two shows last month based on stunts!" he says. "A reality show, 'Crash Test Dummies,' and a drama, 'The Dead Ringer.' One is to Spike and the other to USA. Right now I am pitching a show about finding the next world-class jockey and also a half-hour sitcom called 'Johnny Black.' 'Johnny Black' is one meeting away from being purchased by CMT! It centers on a world-famous bad-boy singer who is actually quite subdued at home. Me."

OK, well ... further testament to the fact that our John-John's not slowing down anytime soon. And pursuant to that, another note on what's coming up on Schneider's agenda:

Lightning Fest
August 7-8
Dyersville, Iowa
http://collector.johnnylightning.com/?xcid=jlhome

Joining Schneider will be BRBTV's bud Paul Harrington of the Canadian Dukes of Hazzard Fan Club, along with his vast "Dukes of Hazzard" museum and car display.