Dispatches: Old West & Beyond 08.26.25
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“We frequently forgive those who bore us, but cannot forgive those who we bore.” —Francois, Duc de La Rochefoucauld
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—MY TWO CENTS WORTH—
In this era of over-the-top discontent, I long ago discovered Judge Frank Caprio, the beloved Rhode Island jurist renowned for his compassionate rulings and viral courtroom videos on Caught in Providence.
This one-of-a-kind Champion of Kind Justice passed away this month at age 88. And, he will be missed. Judge Caprio epitomized kindness, something in short supply these days. He led a life committed to kindness and to family.
“A good life is being a good family man.... and having good friends.That’s all there is to life. . . I don’t know what the future holds. . . So, I tell you, enjoy every minute of your life.”
In an interview, Judge Caprio said that battling cancer taught him many things, “but one of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is the importance of telling people around me that I love them. And by telling the people around me that I loved them, I have strengthened my bonds with each of them.”
He served as a Providence Municipal Court judge from 1985 to 2023 and was celebrated for his empathy. He often waived fines for struggling defendants.
Known for blending humor with justice, he leaves a legacy of kindness, highlighted by billions of online views and global tributes.
Judge Frank Caprio: A beautiful soul.
—DISPATCHES FROM THE OLD WEST—
(1) Gunman John Ledford swung open the door of the privy where he was hiding and charged out with guns blazing, striking lawman Jack Bridges several times. "SHOOTOUT AT THE OUTHOUSE."
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(2) Outlaw Bill Doolin spent 12 years on the run. He proved an elusive outlaw. But he didn’t count on the tenacity of lawman Heck Thomas, who tracked him down. It all ended in the light of a “DEADLY MORNING MOON.”
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—DISPATCHES FROM HERE & THERE—
(3) “You’re so hot” and “Hey” rank as the worst opening lines to use on dating apps, no matter what your age. Really, there are other options.
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(4) Concept cars can be fascinating, such as the 1958 Sir Vival, which featured a bizarre design that emphasized passenger safety. Here are more cars of tomorrow.
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(5) Most people want to get in better shape, which is a good thing. Health experts say you can also benefit big time with simple stretching exercises. Here’s how to have a daily “conversation with your body.
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(6) The other day, I ran across a story about a legend not many know about. Her name is Ann Hodges. In 1954, this Alabama woman was struck by a meteorite.
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(7) During a drive through Newark, Ohio, a small community just east of Columbus, a few years ago, I spotted a uniquely shaped structure towering above the horizon that served as corporate headquarters for the Longaberger Company. The building resembled the company’s Medium Market Basket, including the handles. The creative design was an example where architects were given free rein to create something unique and memorable. Here are other examples.
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(8) From Iowa to Fiji, 100 travel destinations for movie lovers. From Harry Potter’s station platform to the Rocky Steps: A bucket list of must-visit spots for film fans.
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"The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him." —Niccolo Machiavelli
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