re: Jonathan Cohen, my Taxachusetts conservative who writes occasionally, decided to go for Kerry, although he admits he's still under the spell of the Red Sox win:

HI DAVE-O!

I'm not really a closet wing-nut. I only play one in e-mails. That's why you're the first one to know that I voted for what you'd call the Evil Empire today. Principal reason? Civility, as in "civil liberties" and "civil discourse". That's what I care about most. The worst thing I could think of if Mr. Kerry wins? Michael Moore wins the Oscars. Hey, I can live with that. I just want four more moderate, more tolerant years in my country and the world. This Administration, IMHO, is not a friend of civility. End of story.

Besides, the Red Sox beat the real Evil Empire en route to the World Championship (did I really write that?). Steinbrenner's a Red guy. The Sox owners are Blue. Massachusetts rules!

In any event, thanks for giving a lonely, prickly independent a forum. I must admit, however, that I was under the influence when I first started writing.

All's fair in love and politics, right? Just let me know that I'd be welcome if I ever visit Coeur D'Uane, OK?

Jonathan Cohen
Brookline, MA

DFO: You're forgiven. Just don't mention the Kerry snafu to any locals if you visit.

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