In its brilliance, gold blinds. How else can you explain the bizarre episode unfolding before your dazzled eyes? Dozens of locals vociferously attest that they were blinded by Kevin E. Mitchell, owner of CoiNuts in Coeur d'Alene. When he wasn't quoting scripture or, perhaps, making up his own biblical passages along the way, Mitchell was happily taking people's money on the promise that he would deliver gold, coins or other valuables just a bit further down the road, his alleged victims say. Forgive our bluntness, but most people will research or investigate any sizable investment thoroughly before parting with their hard-earned bucks/Coeur d'Alene Press Editorial Board. More here.

• CoiNuts owner operates coinshop.com/David Coles, Press

Question: Is there too much hysteria out there, warning people to hoard food, guns and gold?