Tracy Wuster had a poll on his "humor in America" site last year, to vote for this year's recipient. DeGeneres was not even listed as a contender (nor were any women, by the way). Here is how he listed the "top contenders": Who should win the next "Mark Twain Prize for American Humor"? Norman Lear Garrison Keillor Jon Stewart Bill Maher Woody Allen Hal Holbrook I'd wait on Colbert, Stewart and Maher (and DeGeneres) till the old-timers are recognized. Woody Allen never honored?? (probably would refuse to appear, though, which is I'm sure a deal breaker). And I'd throw in some of the legendary TV women like Carol Burnett or even Mary Tyler Moore, whose work revolutionized our way of seeing funny women. Deceased folks are also unable to appear -- Vonnegut, Will Rogers, Lucy -- and I just dislike going for the pop appeal in lieu of these older veterans. Again, all due respect -- but where would the likes of DeGeneres be without those other comediennes? -hb -- Harold K. Bush, Ph.D Professor of English Saint Louis University St. Louis, MO 63108 314-977-3616 (w); 314-771-6795 (h) <www.slu.edu/x23809.xml>