That particular lie was propogated by newspaper publishers who thought they could save millions by dropping all those "extra" commas. Leaving the last commas off makes for a lot more ambiguity. Unfortunately, many academics got convinced that if newspapers write that way it must be a good idea.

My favorite breakfasts are bacon and eggs, blueberry muffins, and sausage and biscuits. Take one, two or three times daily.

        - tye (but my friends call me "Tye")