I think my lifelong preference for folk music is due in large part to Burl Ives. Though my family could and did listen to all types of music shows on radio Burl Ives was always a favorite and my first exposure to folk songs. As a consequence one of the first lps I ever purchased was Burl Ives' Wayfaring Stranger. I took it off to college and it would draw the interest of other students whenever I played it. Many of the songs first heard on that record are still among my favorites. Ives was also one the main reasons I developed an interest in guitar. I still have that original lp now converted to CD and several other Burl Ives recordings as well. Folk music was a major focus of my life since childhood and I was fortunate to spend over 30 years before retirement in a field where folk, traditional, and historical music was a major focus. I am truly indebted to Burl Ives for opening a world before me.