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“There is special providence in the fall of a sparrow.” —William Shakespeare

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— MY TWO CENTS WORTH —

Among today’s stories is one focused on high-profile heists, such as diamonds, gold, cash, and even maple syrup. While compiling the story, I was shocked to learn that thieves steal more than $3 million worth of Parmesan cheese annually.

A research center in Britain pointed out that Parmigiano Reggiano, one of the most expensive cheeses, ranks as the most stolen food in the world. A few years ago, eleven gang members were taken into custody for stealing more than 2,000 wheels of Parmesan over an 11-year period, worth a cool $875,000. “Cheese is a bit like gold here (because) the price is so high,” according to an Italian law enforcement agent. 

— DISPATCHES FROM THE OLD WEST — 

(1) Gunman turned lawyer John Wesley Hardin was rolling dice for drinks when Constable John Selman came up behind him, put a gun to the back of Hardin's head, and fired. "THE GUN DOWN."

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(2) Some historians say that the 19th-century society in the American West wasn’t as violent as everyone believes. A great deal of misinformation exists about the Old West. Here are seven myths debunked.

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— DISPATCHES FROM HERE & THERE —  

(3) I’ve always enjoyed stories and flicks about high-profile heists that involved some bold and risky behavior. Here are ten of the world’s most audacious crimes. 

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(4) What’s not to like about Autumn? Maybe leaves or yard cleanup. And, there are two sides to the idea of raking leaves.

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(5) WalletHub conducted a survey to determine the happiest states across the USA. Personally, I don’t buy into the results. But you can judge for yourself. 

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(6) During the several decades that I’ve been writing, I can probably count on one hand how many times I’ve used a semicolon. It’s always been a source of confusion and misunderstanding. Writer Kurt Vonnegut advised, “Do not use semicolons. All they do is show you've been to college. ”Bye-bye semicolon.”

But wait, there’s more. A self-confessed semicolon snob says the literary device has gotten a bad rap. She claims that once you use them, you’ll never do without them. 

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(7) Spoons and knives are and were everyday utensils for eating soups and stews, and cutting meat. However, believe it or not, the fork was once banned.

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(8) If you’ve never tried rock climbing, here’s your chance to give it a go. Not outside but electronically. Try not to get too frustrated while playing indoor rock climbing. 

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“I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” —Christopher Reeve

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