December 17, 2003: 1962 Lone Ranger toy gun set for sale! For those who have a few hundred extra dollars and for the others who just want to see what a Lone Ranger toy double holster & gun set from 1962 sells for, check out the following link. Just Kids Nostalgia web site has for sale, such a set. This is not an auction for the set as it is actually up for sale, first buyer with the money gets it: "Lone Ranger Toy Gun Set"
December 16, 2003: The Silver Bullet newsletter by Joe Southern! Joe told me that the next issue of The Silver Bullet should be in the mail by the end of this week and most of us should have it in our hands sometime next week. Just something nice for us to look forward to receiving in the coming days.
December 13, 2003: Lassie "Peace Patrol" with Clayton on DVD! Lone Ranger fan, Bob Booth, reported finding a dvd at Wal Mart with three episodes of Lassie on it. One of the episodes is the "Peace Patrol" episode in which Clayton Moore appears as the Lone Ranger, with Silver. This episode has been on video tape in the past but is now available in the dvd format. Bob told me that it was priced at $5.88 and on the back side is a small picture of Clayton and Lassie.
December 12, 2003: Lone Ranger Frontier Town sold for $3,333.00! The Scoop web site reports that a complete and unused cardboard Lone Ranger Frontier Town, from 1948, recently sold at auction for $3,333.00. Not bad for something that originally came on the backs of cereal boxes. You can get a few more details by following this link: "Lone Ranger Frontier Town"
December 12, 2003: Dark Horse Comics Lone Ranger statue delayed! Lone Ranger fans, Eric French & Al D., report that the new Lone Ranger statue by Dark Horse Comics will not be available until March 10, 2004, due to some production problems. I have since learned, that the statue production was on schedule but the collector's tin box, handled by a different manufacturer, developed problems and the boxes were not available. Thus the statue cannot be shipped out until the tin boxes are produced. The statue was originally scheduled for release on December 3, 2003. According to the seller, Dark Horse Comics, it will be a limited edition item, limited to 600 numbered pieces. It will come in a full-color tin box with a vintage-style pinback button with a booklet about the Lone Ranger and his creator, Fran Striker. This item will sell for $49.95 and it 5 1/4" tall but, you can pre-order it for $44.95 by clicking on the button below the price. You can see it and get more details on it at the following web site: "Lone Ranger Statue"
December 10, 2003: Lone Ranger leaving Hallmark Channel lineup! Unfortunately, it's been verified that The Lone Ranger is leaving the Hallmark Channel lineup with the last episode to be shown at 5:00 a.m. Central time on Saturday, January 3, 2004. I had heard from a couple of fellow LR fans in November, that the show would be leaving in January. It's now been confirmed by Hallmark.
December 5, 2003: Earl Bellamy dies: Earl Bellamy, a well known television film director, including many episodes of The Lone Ranger, died on Sunday, November 30, 2003 of a heart attack in a hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Bellamy had received a Golden Boot Award last August for his work. Earl Bellamy was 86 years of age. You can read the L.A. Times obituary on Bellamy here: "Earl Bellamy Obituary"
December 3, 2003: Lone Ranger on World Harvest Television! Charles H., a fellow Lone Ranger fan, reports that the Lone Ranger episodes can be seen on World Harvest Television. The episodes are uncut, without channel logos in the corner of the screen and no voice-overs or split-screens at the end of the shows. Chuck reports the episodes are currently being shown in order and at the time I received the word, they were at episode number 43. World Harvest Television can be found on some cable company lineups and for satellite users, it can be found on c-band satellite G4-15 and is also on theSky Angel network.
November 18, 2003: Lone Ranger movies on DVD: If you are still looking for the VCI Entertainment version of the Lone Ranger movies on DVD, you can find them at the Wal Mart web site for $5.88 each. These are the 1956 and 1958 movies starring Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels and the DVDs have the extra bonus material: "Wal Mart Lone Ranger movies on DVD"
November 11, 2003: Lone Ranger & Mother Goose & Grimm cartoon! In case you missed the comic page in yesterday's newspaper, the cartoon "Mother Goose & Grimm" had a Lone Ranger theme.
November 4, 2003: Follow up on the Schylling Lone Ranger collectibles! Jim Hollaert informed me this morning that he will indeed be carrying all 5 of the Schylling Lone Ranger collectibles as discussed in the November 2, 2003 News item. Jim told me that he will have the information up on his web site by tonight or tomorrow and the items in stock by Friday or Monday at the latest. You will be able to get the prices and shipping costs by checking at the Jim n' I Enterprises web site at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES" Click on the STORE button!
November 2, 2003: Great looking NEW Lone Ranger collectibles! As I first hinted at in a July 22nd News item, there are some brand new and great looking Lone Ranger collectibles coming. Schylling Associates Inc. has introduced on their web site, 5 new items, which are: a tin wind-up Lone Ranger & Silver rocker; a Lone Ranger flashlight with a Morse Code button and code sheet; a Lone Ranger pocket watch which comes in a comic book collectors tin box; a Lone Ranger wristwatch which comes in a special collector's tin box and a tin & plastic Lone Ranger pinball game. No suggested retail prices given and they are NOT available for sale on-line at the Schylling web site, according to their web site information. You will have to find these items for sale in stores and Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES is doing his best at obtaining these for your purchase at his place of business but no word yet, so stay tuned. In the mean time, check your favorite stores to see if they show up there. Last year, I found the Roy Rogers version of the rocker & flashlight (with a signal siren and I suspect the Lone Ranger flashlight will also have this feature) at, Tractor Supply Co., a local farm supply store in my area. I'll let you know here, as soon as Jim finds out if he will be able to carry these items or not. Meanwhile, you can view all 5 items and be sure to click on each picture for additional details at the Schylling Associates web site at: "Schylling Lone Ranger Tin Collectibles"
October 31, 2003: New Tonto statue available in March, 2004! Lone Ranger fan, Eric French, reports that there is a new Tonto statue that will become available in March of 2004. According to the seller, Dark Horse Comics, Tonto will come packaged in a special litho-printed full-color tin box and include a vintage-style pinback button, and booklet about the characters and their creator, Fran Striker. The Tonto statue will be a limited edition item, limited to 600 numbered pieces. This item will sell for $49.95 and it 5 1/4" tall but, you can pre-order it for $44.95 by clicking on the Pre-order button. You can see it and get more details on it at the following web site: "Tonto Statue" . The Tonto statue will compliment the Lone Ranger statue which I told you about in a News item on October 5th. The Lone Ranger statue can still be pre-ordered for a December release at a $5 savings. See the News item on October 5, 2003. Thanks Eric! Also, you might be interested in the numerous Lone Ranger videos and DVDs that this web site offers. Just conduct a search on the words: Lone Ranger
October 24, 2003: Lone Ranger items in current Hake's Auction! Hake's America is running an auction with a number of rare Lone Ranger items. They are interesting to look at and you can view them by going to the following web site and searching for the words: Lone Ranger in the Search Auction box at: "Hake's America"
October 23, 2003: Jack Elam Dies: Character actor Jack Elam died Monday, October 20, 2003 at his home in Ashland, Oregon of congestive heart failure. Jack was 82 years of age, according to his wife, Jenny, although several biographies give his age as 86. Jack added 4 years to his age in order to acquire his first job. Jack appeared in 2 episodes of the Lone Ranger in season 4. Most everyone recognized Jack by his wandering left eye, which he acquired as a boy after being stabbed in the eye with a pencil by another boy, and resulted in Jack being blinded in that eye. Jack was born in Miami, Arizona. Jack is survived by his wife, 3 children, 3 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. At Jack's request, there will not be any memorial service.
October 18, 2003: Lone Ranger cookie jars still available Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES asked me to inform fellow Lone Ranger fans that he does have additional Vandor Lone Ranger cookie jars available and he is making a special offer. The first 7 people who mention seeing this offer on my Clayton Moore, The Lone Ranger web site, can purchase the Vandor Lone Ranger cookie jar for $79.95 + Shipping AND will receive for free, a Lone Ranger mini gift bag and tag with it. Everyone who mentions my web site to Jim, can purchase the cookie jar for $79.95 + Shipping. You must call (760) 247-5020 to get the special pricing by mentioning my web site and only the first 7 people placing an order will qualify for the Lone Ranger mini gift bag and tag. You can view the cookie jar by visiting the Jim n' I Enterprises web site at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES" Click on the "Store" button at the top of the page to look at the cookie jar and other items that Jim carries. Also, Jim tells me that he was down to one remaining Carlton Cards Lone Ranger Christmas ornament but is trying to get more.
October 18, 2003: Lone Ranger - Hallmark Channel changes: It appears that the Hallmark Channel has decided to change the Lone Ranger broadcasts from two episodes down to one episode on Saturdays and they have also moved the time slot to 5:00 a.m. Central/6 :00 a.m. Eastern. This will apparently be in effect for November as well, except for November 15th, when they aren't showing the Lone Ranger at all on that day.
October 5, 2003: New Lone Ranger statue available on December 3, 2003! Lone Ranger fan, Eric French, reports that there is a new Lone Ranger statue that will become available on December 3, 2003. According to the seller, Dark Horse Comics, it will be a limited edition item, limited to 600 numbered pieces. It will come in a full-color tin box with a vintage-style pinback button with a booklet about the Lone Ranger and his creator, Fran Striker. This item will sell for $49.95 and it 5 1/4" tall but, you can pre-order it for $44.95 by clicking on the button below the price. You can see it and get more details on it at the following web site: "Lone Ranger Statue"
October 5, 2003: Email Problems: As some of you may have noticed, I've been having email problems since early this Summer. My email provider went down entirely on this past Thursday or Friday but hopefully it will be back up in a couple of days. If there isn't a quick fix, I will change the email contact information for this web page.
September 24, 2003: Lone Ranger on t.v. in Canada: Boyce Hart reports that Lone Ranger fans in the Toronto, Canada area can view the show on the Lonestar western channel. Boyce says that they have been showing the color episodes so far. Boyce also mentions that the same channel is also showing the color episodes of the "Tales of Wells Fargo" series and this series is shown on Saturdays. "
September 6, 2003: Lone Ranger Christmas ornaments Special deal & a Cookie Jar update: A friend and fellow Lone Ranger fan in Ohio alerted me today, that the Carlton Cards Lone Ranger ornaments can be purchased during a special deal at the Carlton Cards retail stores. When you buy one ornament, you can order a 2nd ornament at half price. This actually applies to any of the Christmas ornaments that the stores sell, so if you have a store in your area, you may want to stop by or give them a call to get the details and this may be a limited time offer, so don't delay. I don't think the Carlton Cards web site is making this offer, just the retail stores! If you haven't seen this ornament yet, you can view a photo of it at: "2003 Lone Ranger Hi-Yo Christmas ornament" If you don't have a Carlton Cards retail store near you, Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES tells me that he plans to carry the ornaments too. Also, if you have been waiting on buying the Vandor Lone Ranger cookie jar, don't put it off any longer, as Jim reported to me today, that he has only 4 left and he may not be able to get anymore. Contact Jim today at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES"
September 6, 2003: Don't forget! 1st Drawings for Clayton Moore Pewter Statues is September 14th! Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES announces two drawings in 2003 for two pewter statues of Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger as the prizes. The first drawing will be held on September 14, 2003 and the second drawing will be held on December 28, 2003. The pewter statues are limited, closed editions by artist Michael Ricker. A portion of the proceeds of these drawings will go to benefit The Happy Trails Children's Foundation for abused children. You can view the statues and get all of the details and rules by visiting the Jim n' I Enterprises web site at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES" Click on the "LR DRAWING" button at the top of the page. Please remember, that there are two separate drawings for two separate statues and you must specify which drawing you are purchasing tickets for when you place your order. Yes, you can buy tickets for either or both drawings. Also, please mention to Jim that you heard about the drawing on this web site and good luck.
September 3, 2003: Sadness to report: It's with a lot of sadness that I report, that Rand Brooks, long-time friend of Clayton and Dawn Moore, died of cancer, on Monday, September 1st at his home in Santa Ynez, California. Rand appeared in a number of Lone Ranger episodes and in many other westerns, as well as being a sidekick in a number of Hopalong Cassidy films. You can read the Washington Post article here: "Rand Brooks dies"NOTE* According to the obituary in the LA Times, funeral services for Rand will be on Tuesday, September 9th at 11:30 a.m. at Forest Lawn, Glendale. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara or the Motion Picture and Television Fund retirement home and hospital in Woodland Hills.
August 27, 2003: VCI Lone Ranger DVDs: I had a report from Andy W. that he saw the VCI versions of The Lone Ranger (1956) and The Lone Ranger and the Lost City of Gold (1958) in the $5.88 DVD bargain bin at Wal Mart. I didn't spot any copies at one of the local Wal Marts in my area that I checked, but if you have been looking for these two movies, you might want to check out the Wal Mart store in your area. They were well done by VCI and they do have "extras" on the DVDs. Good luck!
August 22, 2003: To The Silver Bullet newsletter subscribers: Joe Southern, publisher of The Silver Bullet, has been having computer problems due to the nasty computer virus and worm problems, that many of us are familiar with, which is causing a delay in the publication of the next issue. Joe informed me that the next issue of The Silver Bullet should be out by mid-September, barring any additional computer problems, computer viruses or flooded basements. It will be worth the wait! It will give you non-subscribers a little extra time to sign up and you can do so by following this link for the information: "The Silver Bullet newsletter"
August 14, 2003: Rhino Lone Ranger DVD set: If you haven't purchased the Rhino Lone Ranger Boxed Set yet, you can check to see if your local Best Buy store has it on hand. The Best Buy store in my area had several copies on the shelf that you can look at and examine. This 4 disc set contains the first 19 color episodes from season five plus several "extras" and it was priced at $44.95 which is a nice savings off the suggested retail price of $59.95.
August 7, 2003: Old Hartland Lone Ranger & Silver figures information: If you have any questions about the old Hartland Lone Ranger and Silver figures and accessories that came out in the 1950's then the following web site will be of interest to you. Mike Jackson has an excellent site with many photos of these figures and the variations in the guns, hats, and saddles and even the tags that came on the figures. Yes, you can even order some reproduction replacement parts (even that missing feather or knife for Tonto is available) to fix up that incomplete figure that many of us have. Lots of other Hartland cowboys and their horses are also included in the very interesting and informative web site. Don't forget to take a look at the rare Hartland Lone Ranger lamp too: "Hartland Lone Ranger & Silver Information" You can also find information and photos for the Tonto and Scout figures on this web site too!
August 1, 2003: Hi Yo Silver! Lone Ranger Scores Record Prices: Scoop e-newsletter (Sponsored by Gemstone Publishing and Diamond International Galleries) reports that a buyer purchased the Lone Ranger prototype pulp, the only known copy of the Lone Ranger Magazine Club membership letter, membership card, and membership pin for $30,000. You can read about it and take a look at what someone bought for $30,000 and set a new record in making the purchase: "Hi Yo Silver! Lone Ranger Scores Record Prices"
July 26, 2003: The Lone Ranger show is coming to the Hallmark channel! My thanks to Tom Dischley for alerting me to the fact that the Lone Ranger television show will be broadcast on the Hallmark channel in September, beginning with a 21 hour marathon on September 6th at 5:00 a.m. Central time. On the following Saturdays, it appears that 2 shows of the Lone Ranger show will be broadcast at 12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. Central time. They won't be commercial free but many fans will get their chance to see the Lone Ranger. I don't have the episode titles yet for the marathon or the regular showings in September but once I get them, I'll post them on the TV Schedule page. **NOTE: 7/29/2003: The marathon will consist of episodes 1 through 42. When the regular airings begin on Sept. 13th, they will start with episode 1 and continue in order.
July 23, 2003: 2003 Lone Ranger Hi-Yo Christmas ornament coming! Thanks to Jim Hollaert for alerting me to this little gem that will be available around late August or early September. Carlton Cards will be releasing a very nice Lone Ranger Christmas ornament. When you press the button you will hear a very familiar saying! You will be able to purchase this ornament at all Carlton Cards/American Greetings stores and online at their web site. Also, Jim Hollaert of "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES", informed me that he will also be carrying this ornament. Remember, it's not for sale for about another month or so but you can take a look at this ornament right now at: "2003 Lone Ranger Hi-Yo Christmas ornament"
July 22, 2003: New Lone Ranger collectibles coming in 2003! One of the items is indeed a nice one but I am holding off a bit about mentioning it in this News item, but you will like it when you see it. It will be available for purchase in late August or early September. Stay tuned for more information, including the web site where you can preview it, possibly even yet today. The other item(s) should be coming out in October and is listed in the tin toys section of the manufacturer. It will be available in stores as well as on the Web. The company isn't releasing any information on this item(s) yet and yes, there may be more than one item from this company.
July 20, 2003: Halloween Costumes? Every year, a week or two before Halloween, I receive a number of inquiries for Lone Ranger or Tonto costumes. I know it's only July but since the only way to obtain a Lone Ranger or Tonto costume is to have one made, now is the time to think about it. Sandy of Sandy's Styles has most of the patterns for the various sizes of the Lone Ranger and Tonto costumes. They will gladly take your order and sew up a costume for you. The patterns are based on the costumes used in the 1981 "The Legend of the Lone Ranger" movie, so the Lone Ranger shirt is the bib style rather than the lace-up type that Clayton and John wore on the show. The reason for bringing it up now is that there is an ordering deadline of September 15th but order as early as possible, if it's for Halloween. Tell Sandy that you heard about the costume from this web site. If you are interested in ordering a costume, you can get the details and pricing (varies according to the size) from Sandy at (303) 485-9997 or you can e-mail her at: theloneranger@worldnet.att.net
July 8, 2003: Iverson Movie Ranch Wild, Wild West Days update: I just heard today, that there will NOT be an Iverson Movie Ranch Wild, Wild West Days in 2003. The owner advised me that one of the reasons for not holding the festival this year is because of construction that will continue through the end of the year. There is a good chance however, that the festival will return in 2004, so stay tuned.
July 8, 2003: Don't forget! 1st Drawings for Clayton Moore Pewter Statues is September 14th! Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES announces two drawings in 2003 for two pewter statues of Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger as the prizes. The first drawing will be held on September 14, 2003 and the second drawing will be held on December 28, 2003. The pewter statues are limited, closed editions by artist Michael Ricker. A portion of the proceeds of these drawings will go to benefit The Happy Trails Children's Foundation for abused children. You can view the statues and get all of the details and rules by visiting the Jim n' I Enterprises web site at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES" Click on the "LR DRAWING" button at the top of the page. Please remember, that there are two separate drawings for two separate statues and you must specify which drawing you are purchasing tickets for when you place your order. Yes, you can buy tickets for either or both drawings. Also, please mention to Jim that you heard about the drawing on this web site and good luck.
June 25, 2003: NEW! Lone Ranger Cookie Jar coming soon! JIM n' I ENTERPRISES announced today, that on July 15th, they will begin accepting pre-orders for the Lone Ranger Cookie Jar by Vandor. The cookie jar will normally sell for $89.95 + shipping at the JIM n' I ENTERPRISES web store, but you can obtain it for a special price of $79.95 + shipping by mentioning that you heard about the special offer on this web site. Remember, pre-order starting on July 15, 2003 by calling (760) 247-5020. Here's a picture of this great looking item: "Lone Ranger Cookie Jar"
June 16, 2003: Silver Bullet newsletter: Subscribers to the Silver Bullet newsletter can look forward to receiving it later this week. Joe Southern also reports that the Lone Ranger Fan Club membership kits will be included with the newsletter, for those who signed up for the club. Joe reports that a flooded basement resulted in the delay of the current issue but it's currently being printed and will be mailed yet this week.
June 10, 2003: Signed copies of Clayton's books! A few fans have inquired about obtaining autographed copies of Clayton's book, "I Was That Masked Man". One web site that might be of interest to you is a used book seller. On this web site, they are currently advertising 15 used copies of Clayton's book and 3 of the copies are reportedly signed by Clayton. At the web site, insert the phrase: I Was That Masked Man into the title section of the search box and it should bring up the current available books. Read each item description very carefully as these are USED books and only 3 of the 15 are supposed to be signed. Verify the authenticity of the autograph to your satisfaction by checking with the bookseller as their names and addresses are available. Here's the web site to check out: "abebooks.com"
May 6, 2003: Big Reel magazine with the Lone Ranger: I recently picked up the April, 2003 issue of Big Reel magazine. This is a newsprint style magazine of movie, video and Hollywood collectibles and related items and each April, they publish a Western issue. This issue included a one page story, written by Robert Reed, basically on the radio Lone Ranger with a touch on the television era. Reed did include a lot of emphasis on Lone Ranger collectibles and he did mention Lone Ranger memorabilia collector, Lee J. Felbinger, several times. A nice little article about the Lone Ranger and the myriad of collectibles that the character has spawned over the years. It's on page 42.
May 6, 2003: Golden Boot Award: Western Clippings newsletter reports that Bruce Bennett (also known as Herman Brix), who starred in the serial "The Lone Ranger" in 1938, is set to receive a Golden Boot Award this Summer. Bruce, age 96, will receive his award on August 9, 2003 in Beverly Hills, California. Other Golden Boot Award receipients will be Chris Alcaide, Tommy Farrell, Tommy Lee Jones, Wes Studi and Terry Leonard. Bruce also appeared in many movies and made some TV guest appearances. One TV appearance included a "77 Sunset Strip" episode titled "The Court Martial of Johnny Murdo" in which Chuck Courtney also made a guest appearance.
April 16, 2003: The Rhino DVD set: I received the Rhino "The Lone Ranger Set" on DVD, 6 days after placing the order with Deep Discount DVD. The DVD box is unusual in that they made the inner package, holding the DVDs, look like a saddle bag. It's kind of clever but does make it a bit cumbersome when you open it up to get to the DVDs and I don't see it remaining intact very long after much use. I have only checked one episode thus far and it ran 22 minutes and 10 seconds in length, which I have been told is shorter than what was actually broadcast on television in the 1950's. There are some nice graphics on the packaging and they did a nice job with graphics which are visible when you play the DVDs. Also in the package is an 8 page booklet which gives a brief history of the The Lone Ranger, starting in 1931 with the beginning of radio station WXYZ in Detroit, where the Lone Ranger radio show debuted in 1933. I did take time to check out the two interviews. I do find fault with how Rhino conducts their interviews and hope that they will do a better job in any future releases. The interview with Louise Thomas was interesting, once you got past the opening, where it appeared they just started in the middle of the interview and I was unclear of what she was talking about in the beginning, a couple of times. It may have just been some bad editing of the interview. As the interview goes on, it does get better and more interesting. She mentions that Chuck Courtney also appeared in in a number of public appearances with Clayton. The second interview included both Dawn Moore and Rand Brooks, sitting side by side and was better edited. It is not the same interview of Dawn which was in the first DVD Lone Ranger release by Rhino. They exchanged a number of stories about Clayton and I thought that Dawn was great with Rand as it was obvious that Rand still finds it difficult to speak about his friend of 60 years. One thing that I would like to see Rhino adding in the future is at least a brief caption, at the beginning of the interview, which gives the names of the people being interviewed instead of just starting in the middle of an interview with no introduction. It would be nice to see the episodes at the length of which they ran on t.v. originally but those may not have been available to Rhino. At slightly over $32, I'd rate this set a good buy and an even better buy if you don't already have these episodes in your collection.
April 7, 2003: Lone Ranger is available in Leesburg, Florida: A Lone Ranger fan from Leesburg, Florida, reports that the Lone Ranger is now being broadcast on WLCD, which is channel 19 on the Time Warner Cable system. Thanks Paul B.
April 5, 2003: The Rhino DVD set: In answer to an iquiry, it appears that the best price that I can find for Rhino's "The Lone Ranger Set" is at deepdiscountdvd.com. Deep Discount DVD offers the 4 disc set for $32.38 and for those fans in the U.S., the shipping is FREE for standard U. S. Postal Service mailing or you can spend $4.95 for expedited shipping. "The Lone Ranger Set" has a list price of $59.95. If anyone finds a better deal, let me know. ***April 7-Note: As always, check out any company before you buy from them. A credit card is always best in case you want to contest the purchase. One fan told me that he has orderd the DVD from Deep Discount on March 20 and still hasn't received it as of April 6th. They are based in the next state (Illinois) over from me so I ordered it and I will let you know when I get the set in my hands.
April 4, 2003: Lone Ranger premium sells for thousands of dollars! If you happen to have one of the picture premiums from Merita Bread with The Lone Ranger, Tonto and Dan Reid, guard it carefully. Check out this news item from Scoop about the Lone Ranger premium which sold for more than $29,000.00 at a recent Hakes Americana Auction: "Lone Ranger Merita Bread Premium" Read more about the item that was sold at the Hake's site: "Hakes"
March 22, 2003: "The Cowboy and the Indians" is coming: In April, we can watch Gene Autry's feature film "The Cowboy and the Indians", which also has appearances by Clayton Moore and Jay Silverheels. This is the first movie that Clayton & Jay ever appeared in together and they didn't even know each other at the time of filming, as this was before the Lone Ranger show cast was put together. Clayton & Jay have some scenes together in this movie. Also, for you viewers who do not have the Westerns channel but do have the MPLEX (Movieplex) channel, you have only one opportunity, in April, to see this movie. It will be broadcast on the MPLEX channel on Wednesday, April 2nd at 9:15 p.m. It will be on the Westerns channel several times during April. In addition, April brings the feature movie "The Vanishing American" in which Jay Silverheels appears, so watch for it on the Westerns channel.
March 22, 2003: Animal Channel needs some help: It sounds a bit unusual but Van Ness Films is apparently producing a couple of new documentaries and they are looking for help from collectors of television and movie animal memorabilia and in particular, they are looking for memorabilia on "The Lone Ranger and Silver". This is according to information on the Hollywood Collectors Show website. You can get a few more details at this website: "Lone Ranger Fan Club" Scroll down to just past the guest list, to a heading of Collectors: to find the information. Thanks to C. Campbell for sending along the information on this.
March 19, 2003: Join the Lone Ranger Fan Club: Joe Southern, of the Silver Bullet newsletter, announced today that Classic Media has approved of his "Lone Ranger Fan Club". Joe plans on selling Classic Media licensed membership kits which will include a 1 year subscription to the "Silver Bullet" newsletter, a membership card, membership certificate and an 8x10 color photo. Also, later in the year, Joe will send out a special mystery premium as part of the kit. Current newsletter subscribers will get information on how to add the membership in their March issue of the "Silver Bullet". I have received a lot of inquiries in the past about a Lone Ranger fan club and this should be a great opportunity for every Lone Ranger fan. You can get all the details by clicking on the Fan Club button at: "Lone Ranger Fan Club"
March 13, 2003: Lone Ranger not returning to Westerns Channel!: I received a couple of emails today, that indicated that Westerns channel will not be broadcasting the Lone Ranger for at least a year. Apparently, another company has acquired the rights to broadcast the Lone Ranger but that doesn't mean that they will indeed broadcast them at all. There is no indication yet as to who this company may be. Yes, you can still send your letter or fax of disappointment to the Westerns channel, at the address you can find in the February 10th news item. Perhaps they will reconsider it for a year from now. If another company begins to broadcast the Lone Ranger, the odds are that they will include commercials, as most companies do (except for Westerns and TCM) broadcast commercials during their shows. My thanks to George Coan and Patrick for letting me know of their latest communication from the Westerns channel.
March 1, 2003: Listen to the first radio show: Thanks to Radio Spirits, you have a nice opportunity to hear the "origin" episode of The Lone Ranger radio show, which was first broadcast on June 30, 1948. The radio show runs just over 29 minutes and is great and even better, it's free. This is the radio episode of the ambush, the silver mine, the finding of Silver, Dan Reid and the capture of the Cavendish Gang. When you get to the web site, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the words "Click Here to Listen" and then follow the directions: "Origin" of the Lone Ranger radio episode"
February 18, 2003: "Hollywood Cowboys" in Iowa update!: I just received a flyer in the mail today that Johnny Western will be performing in a benefit concert at the Herbert Hoover Museum in West Branch, Iowa on Friday, February 21st at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and you can call (319) 688-2653 or (310) 643-5301. Also, there will be a Welcome reception on Friday, February 21st from 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. at the Iowa State Bank & Trust and it will involve all of the stars and historians who will be appearing at the symposium on Saturday, the 22nd, at the Hoover Museum. See my News item for February 9th for additional details on this coming weekend at the Hoover Museum
February 18, 2003: More on the upcoming Rhino DVD: I have now learned that the Rhino DVD, which will released on March 25th, will contain these interviews: An interview with Dawn Moore, Clayton's daughter; an interview with Clayton's longtime and good friend, Rand Brooks; and an interview with Louise Thomas, the wrangler for Silver. Total length of this DVD is 510 minutes. The DVD has a suggested retail price of $59.95 and is Rhino product number 970088.
February 13, 2003: Lone Ranger DVD set coming in March!: My thanks to Any W. for alerting me to the fact that Rhino Video is releasing a Lone Ranger DVD set, containing the first 19 color episodes, in chronological order by airdate. List price is $59.95 but Deep Discount DVD has a pre-order price of $32.38. The set is scheduled for release on March 25, 2003. No information about this set on the Rhino web site yet. When I learn more about this set, I will let you know all about it here.
February 12, 2003: 2 items to note: Westerns channel has added episode # 162 "The Tell-Tale Bullet" at 3:05 a.m. (CST) on Feb. 23rd and I have added a new page regarding the October 22, 2002 Texas Trail of Fame induction ceremony for Clayton Moore & Jay Silverheels, among others. There is a button on my Internal Links page for your use but you can also take a look now by clicking here: "Texas Trail of Fame 2002"
February 10, 2003: BAD NEWS LONE RANGER FANS!: After my inquiry, a spokesman for the Westerns Channel sent me this today: "Yes, The Lone Ranger will be ending this month as air rights expire on 2-28-03. We have had air rights for this series since 1999. When rights expire, we are no longer able to broadcast a title. We do not currently have plans to reacquire in the near future nor do we have another series that will replace it. Movies will be scheduled during that time slot." Enjoy the remaining episodes that will be shown this month fellow fans but more importantly, you will have to let the Westerns Channel customer relations department know, how much you desire that they obtain the rights and begin to air the Lone Ranger show again. 2/11/2003 *NOTE* The Westerns Channel spokesperson suggests that you Fax or write if you wish to express your opinion. Please keep messages polite and brief: FAX Number is 720-852-4098 and the mailing address is: Starz Encore Group, Attn: Customer Relations, 8900 Liberty Circle, Englewood, CO 80112
February 9, 2003: "Hollywood Cowboys" exhibit in Iowa: For those of you within driving distance of the Herbert Hoover Presidential Museum in West Branch, Iowa (near Iowa City) you have a chance to see a great exhibit and some fine people. There currently is a special exhibit at the museum which will be there until March 23rd. Personal items from over 80 cowboy actors will be on exhibit and items have come from the Roy Rogers Museum, the Gene Autry Museum, from collectors and other museums. Items will include clothing , movie props, posters, hats, etc. There will be 2 symposiums in February: The first will be primarily for University of Iowa students but it is open to the public. It will be held on Friday, February 21st at 1:30 p.m. at the U of I Film School with Director Earl Bellamy and his wife Gail, as the main speakers. On Saturday, February 22nd, at 1:30 p.m., at the Hoover Museum, Earl and Gail Bellamy will be joined by Robert ("Wagon Train") Horton, Will ("Sugarfoot") Hutchins, Marion Shilling and Johnny Western. They will all speak and attend an autograph session held after the symposium. Admission is $10 ($5 for children aged 12 or under) to this special event but seating is limited to 200. Earl Bellamy directed many television series and films and was a director for many of the Lone Ranger episodes in the final season. West Branch is located along I-80 and the Hoover Museum is a dandy place to visit. Master of Ceremonies for both symposiums will be Boyd Magers of "Western Clippings". If interested in attending either the symposium or just the museum and the "Hollywood Cowboys" exhibit, contact Matt Schaefer at (319) 643-5301or e-mail him at: mattew.schaefer@nara.gov
February 7, 2003: Don't miss it!: Westerns channel has been playing a 2 minute clip about the Autry Museum of Western Heritage as a part of their "On The Trail" feature. Be sure to watch it and you catch a glimpse of a part of the Lone Ranger exhibit with the costume of the Lone Ranger that Clayton Moore wore. There is a medium shot of the costume and a second, but quick shot of the costume from a bit farther away camera angle. Also, Clayton is mentioned during the brief talk by Dennis Weaver in his introduction of "Sons of New Mexico" movie, as being a part of this movie, in which Clayton does play a prominent role as bad guy, Rufe Burns.
February 4, 2003: 2 Drawings for Clayton Moore Pewter Statues! Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES announces two drawings in 2003 for two pewter statues of Clayton Moore as the Lone Ranger as the prizes. The first drawing will be held on September 14, 2003 and the second drawing will be held on December 28, 2003. The pewter statues are limited, closed editions by artist Michael Ricker. A portion of the proceeds of these drawings will go to benefit The Happy Trails Children's Foundation for abused children. You can view the statues and get all of the details and rules by visiting the Jim n' I Enterprises web site at: "JIM n' I ENTERPRISES" Click on the "LR DRAWING" button at the top of the page. Please remember, that there are two separate drawings for two separate statues and you must specify which drawing you are purchasing tickets for when you place your order. Yes, you can buy tickets for either or both drawings. Also, please mention to Jim that you heard about the drawing on this web site and good luck.
January 26, 2003: No updates for awhile: Due to necessary computer repairs, this web site will not be updated for the next 10-14 days.
January 23, 2003: Lone Ranger Fan Club: Joe Southern, publisher of the "Silver Bullet" newsletter, is announcing his Lone Ranger Fan Club web site. This is just a basic web site that is still under construction but Joe is anxious to see what interest there is in starting up a Lone Ranger Fan Club. Parts of the web site is under construction, so you will have to check back from time to time for changes and additions. Also, you can contact Joe on this web site if you are interested in subscribing to the "Silver Bullet" newsletter or to express your interest in the fan club. Here's the web site: "Lone Ranger Fan Club" Tell Joe you saw the information on this web page.
January 23, 2003: "Sons of New Mexico" movie in February: Just wanted to call to your attention that Westerns will be broadcasting a Clayton Moore movie, "Sons of New Mexico" in February and one broadcast of it will also be on the MPLEX channel. Also note that according to my advance TV guide listings, the Westerns channel appears to to be skipping Lone Ranger episodes 134 through 141. If this changes, I'll let you know when I find out!
January 22, 2003: WB's Lone Ranger I received information that WB's "The Lone Ranger" had originally been planned as a 2 hour pilot, to test the waters for a regular series but tonight, I found out that "The Lone Ranger" is no longer planned as a series and it has been cut, by a lot.
January 17, 2003: WB's new Lone Ranger t.v. show: On February 26, 2003, we will have a chance to see what WB has done with their version of "The Lone Ranger" with their 2 hour premiere broadcast. The show will be broadcast at 8:00 p.m. (unsure if that's Eastern or Central time, so check your local listing) on the WB channel. I'll withhold judgement until I view it but there will be lots of changes from what we are all used to, beginning with the name change from Reid to Hartman. Here's a link for you to follow to look at a picture at the latest Lone Ranger and Tonto and read a little about some of the changes, courtesy of Scoop/Gemstone Publishing, Inc.: "Scoop on the new Lone Ranger"
January 4, 2003: I'm back! At least temporarily. 2003 should be a good year for Lone Ranger fans. According to the latest "Silver Bullet" newsletter, the WB network is scheduled to show their version of the Lone Ranger show in February. Fan reaction will decide whether the new show will become a weekly series or not. Also, 2003 will be the 70th anniversary of the "birth" of the Lone Ranger story. Joe Southern of the "Silver Bullet" and Jim Hollaert of JIM n' I ENTERPRISES are working on some ideas and commemorative projects in celebration of the 70th anniversary. More details to follow here as they develop. If you want to subscribe to the "Silver Bullet" news letter, 2003 would be a good year to begin. It's $20 for a year subscription (4 issues). Get additional information here: theloneranger@worldnet.att.net OR you can send regular mail inquiries or subscription requests to: The Silver Bullet, P.O. Box 1493, Longmont, CO 80502. Joe is talking about starting a Lone Ranger fan club and welcomes ideas and thoughts with regard to a fan club. Also, if you want to see some new or reissued Lone Ranger toys, collectibles, books, comics, etc., join me in e-mailing or writing letters to various manufacturers and name brand companies, requesting that they manufacture and sell new items of interest. One such company is Hallmark, the makers of tin boxes and ornaments. I periodically e-mail Hallmark, asking for a new Lone Ranger ornament each year. The companies I make these requests of range from jelly & jam makers (those neat little glass jars would look nice with the Lone Ranger characters on them) to Marx Toys (they had a metal Lone Ranger set produced many years ago) to Radko (they produce great looking blown glass ornaments). The more fans who request Lone Ranger items, the more likely the items might get manufactured. If they see a market potential, many of the manufacturers will obtain the Lone Ranger license and produce the products that Lone Ranger fans request. Remember the Lone Ranger flashlight of the 50's? The Schylling Co. manufactured a great looking Roy Rogers & Trigger flashlight with signal siren in recent months. It came in a great display box with a gorgeous painted Roy & Trigger on the light. You really need to hold this item in your hand to see how nice it looks. This company also issued a Roy Rogers & Trigger tin rocking horse, Roy Rogers & Trigger wind-up alarm clock and a small handheld pinball game. A Lone Ranger version of these items would be welcome additions and I have e-mailed this company as well. You can see the Roy Rogers versions at: "Schylling Roy Roger items". Just keep in mind that manufacturers plan ahead by at least 9 months to a year and some companies need more time than that before they can manufacture an item. Just some random thoughts and ideas that you may want to think about for 2003. May you all have a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!