False alarm: Sorry:
i failed to include that, in addition to changing the oil, i also changed the fuel filter to the electric pump and changed the air filter. This is one of those open air assemblies.
i think what happened was in my rush to get it all done, i tightened the air filter assembly against the choke rod causing it to bind (there is some play with some of these aftermarket air filter assemblies on the top of the quadrajet. Not enough play where air can leak in under the assembly, but some side-to-side play) i initially plopped it on there and tightened it down because i was in a "get it done" mood.
There is now, apparently, power going to the choke as it did open while driving after i adjusted the AF housing. Also, the coil is warm/hot to the touch after a few mins. i think the first time i felt it i few days ago i was in a hurry to get to work; i did not remember clearly whether the coil was truly warm or it was colder outside, or i just didn't wait long enough to let it heat up? Thus, "concluding" that there was no power going to the choke.
Sometimes not rushing and procrastination is a good thing?