Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: November 21, 1944

In an upcoming drawing a character very similar to the one laughing here is identified as Claude Smith.  Then again, it also could be Michael Lah.

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: October 28, 1944

"Puttin' On the Dog" released on this day.

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: September 15, 1944

Based on previous drawings, and a couple of wild guesses, I think that the people seated around the table are, clockwise from Spence: Leo Harris, Carmen Maxwell, Joe Barbera, Michael Lah, a generous Bill Hanna (maybe) and Harvey Eisenberg.

A matchbook from Edwards' restaurant, currently available on ebay.

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: September 10, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: September 2, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: July 31, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: June 10, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: May 30, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: May 27, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: February 28 & 29, 1944

They may not have got this story exactly right.

Los Angeles Times, February 28, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: February 12, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: January 22, 1944

Irv Spence's Cartoon Diary: January 14, 1944