Mike's Birthday Party

Sam (Ken Berry) and Mike Jones (Buddy Foster) heavy episodes are "Mayberry RFD" at it's worst. A very weak script the actors all appeared to struggle with. Ella (Renie Riano) is now magically Aunt Ella. The dreaded Mike problem episode with the even more dreaded sappy obligatory life lesson. Slight bright spot were Goober Pyle (George Lindsey) and Howard Sprague (Jack Dodson) awkwardly incorporated in the party to try to liven up the sinking story. The life lesson episodes usually have a predictable ending. And this one didn't stray. No even slight laughs. One of the worst episodes of the series so far.

While Aunt Bee is away caring for her ailing sister, Aunt Ella (Renie Riano) steps in for her. Mike is excited for his upcoming birthday party. His classmate Sally (Christine Matchett) is also having a party on the same day. They both stick to that day, as they've sent out invitations. Sally was hoping to have boys at her party and is agitated that they all seem to be going to Mike's party. She begins enticing the boys to her party with promises of great prizes. The boys begin measuring the prizes to be given away at each party with Mike's merely coming from the dime store. Mike is saddened when the boys begin canceling on him. Goober offers to do his magic tricks and Howard his travel videos as entertainment to entice them back. Mike and Sally try to come up with a resolution.