Readers constantly ask me why I don’t publish the names and email addresses of people who send me such garbage. My reluctance stems in part from the fact that I like to encourage normal folks to email me and lots of people are nervous about their privacy, so I like to have a flat rule of not disclosing anyone’s identity without permission. Also, most of these guys are just losers craving attention. Why given them the satisfaction?

Still, every now and then I tell the hate mailers I’d be glad to publish their names if they feel so strongly etc. This usually causes them to slink away into silence. But the hate mailer I posted from below rose to the challenge, responding — and I quote: “Feel free to post my email address publicly, punk bitch, unlike you guys, I’m not a simpering coward hiding behind some right-wing media sugar daddy.”

So, following his wishes and for whatever it’s worth, today’s hate mail was from a fellow named John Birke. [EMAIL ADDRESS REMOVED SEE THIS POST].

Important Addendum: When I say “do what you will” I mean within the law, within decency, and within common sense. If anybody does anything boneheaded, don’t expect applause from me.