'Barney Fife' returns in January
to lead the United Way's big finish

SANFORD — David Browning, who charmed local audiences as The Mayberry Deputy when he launched this fall's United Way annual campaign, returns to Sanford next month to wrap up what he began in August.

Browning will entertain guests and draw the winning entry at Automobile Give-Away '09, a promotion to benefit the United Way of Lee County and its more than two dozen member agencies serving neighbors throughout Lee County.

About 70 finalists will be on hand for their chance to win a new Pontiac Vibe or Chevrolet Cobalt. To qualify for a series of drawings held over recent weeks, entrants made a qualifying pledge to this fall's United Way annual campaign — contributing either the equivalent of one hour of pay per month for the year or making an annual donation of $500 or more.

The grand prize winner will receive the car; all other finalists will be awarded a prize from dozens donated by area businesses.

A versatile actor and comedian, Browning is best known for his impersonation of Barney Fife, the character made popular by actor Don Knotts on television's The Andy Griffith Show. He has made more than 5,000 presentations as the comic lawman and served as an opening act for both Knotts and George Lindsey, who played the role of Goober Pyle on the TV classic.

The Mayberry Deputy has been an integral part of this year's campaign.

He appeared in August at a breakfast honoring Pacesetters, local companies that helped "set the pace" by making significant contributions early in the annual fundraising campaign, and has promoted the cause in ads and on the United Way Web site.

It's not only that Browning, himself, believes the United Way is an essential part of any strong community, but also that helping others resonates with the character he portrays.

As the Pacesetter event concluded, Browning gave his assessment of why The Andy Griffith Show has remained so popular more than four decades after its final episode aired. It's the sense of community, he concluded, and the fact that people looked out for each other.

Then, he pointed toward a United Way poster standing to his right and some text that read, "Reach out a hand to one and influence the condition of all."

That, he concluded, is the true spirit of Mayberry.

Automobile Give-Away '09 is offered in partnership with Wilkinson Cadillac Chevrolet Pontiac Buick GMC of Sanford, which also is sponsoring The Mayberry Deputy's appearance. The final drawing will be held Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. at Wilkinson, 1301 Douglas Drive in Sanford.

The United Way of Lee County has raised and distributed millions of dollars to help nurture children, enhance self-sufficiency and strengthen families. Contributions raised throughout the year, including the fall campaign, are distributed to more than two dozen member agencies dedicated to improving life for everyone in Lee County.