I returned from the quintet’s European tour to some startling and satisfying news. Waiting in line at customs, the TVs blaring CNN, we were immediately made aware of the change in this country.

In Massachusetts, Deval Patrick, son of Sun Ra saxophonist Pat Patrick, is the new Governor! My brother lives in Massachusetts, and he tells me he’s happier than he’s been in a long time.

In my little congressional district, New York’s “Fighting 19th,” we managed to oust a six term Republican former congressional page board director, Sue W. Kelly. Our new representative is also a musician, former Orleans composer and lead singer John Hall.

Hall got the legendary “Colbert Bump,” and last night was on the show again to with Stephen. Here’s wishing him all the best.

In regards to “anti-Bush” vs. “pro-America and pro-World,” and not to get into semantic and/or political battles, I quite simply would like to see my own country do less damage around the world. I have nothing personal against any politician, and I think it’s a waste of time and energy to blame it on the individuals. But there’s a lot of brush to clear in Crawford, Texas. That’s clearly a job that our president enjoys and perhaps now he’ll have more time for it.