First of all, I am sorry to read of your health issues, Joe. How can Providence burden someone who only gives joy and education to others? (One of many questions I hope we have an answer for someday). Please take care, and know that whenever you appear, you bring happiness with you. Love "seeing" you!
I really appreciate your nod to James Edwards on his birthday. He was such a good actor and deserving of more appreciation.
BTW, that wonderful picture of the
Heavenly Express cast and crew posted on John Garfield's birthday by Professional Tourist
did show Burl Ives. He was the large, very well-groomed fellow in the three piece suit between Harry Morgan and Nicholas (later Richard) Conte on the right of the picture. I guess Burl let it all hang out once he hit the movies, adopting a more familiar shambling, sometimes menacing but mostly genial persona.