Sunday Signal 061624

Healthy Snacks and Healthy Fun

Summer is the time to get outside and remember the importance of outdoor activities that can be enjoyed as a family. Encouraging children at an early age to participate in outdoor exploration can help foster lifelong skills.

For example, research published in the “International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health” found associations between nature exposure and improved cognitive function, brain activity, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity and sleep. What’s more, kids who play and take part in outdoor adventures learn skills like problem solving, according to the American Academy of Pediatricians.

However, for many families with little ones, this summer might be their first foray into activities like exploring playgrounds or enjoying backyard campouts.

Opportunities to be more active outdoors bring obvious benefits. With that in mind, it’s important that families embark on these activities with the proper fuel.

All the energy kids burn playing outdoors and

taking on new adventures can work up an appetite, making it an opportune time to introduce new foods. It might even be a little one’s first time trying seasonal fruits and veggies that can help nourish family playtime.

“A healthy curiosity and freedom to explore are essential ingredients for successful adventures, but fueling all of that fun is equally important,” said Sarah Smith-Simpson, PhD, principal food scientist at Gerber. “Kids need well-balanced nutrition from a variety of sources to fuel their summertime play.”

Ensure your family is ready to make memories and enjoy the exciting adventures ahead with these tips from Smith-Simpson:

Get Colorful with Fruits and Veggies

Serving a rainbow of colors with an assortment of fruits and veggies means nutrient-rich snacks that are equal parts flavorful and fun. One of the best parts about fruits is they’re easily transportable to bring along for warm days exploring a nearby park. They’re perfect for a quick snack on the go — just cut them according to your child’s age and developmental stage to avoid hazards like choking then pack them in a small cooler to keep from spoiling.

For preschool-age children, a variety of fresh produce can help them practice color recognition while enjoying favorite flavors. Stocking your refrigerator and pantry with apples, oranges, bananas, green and purple grapes, blueberries, blackberries and more allows

children to explore a world of nutrition with bright colors that catch their attention.

Pack Plenty and a Variety of Snacks

It’s the time of year when infants and young children need extra fuel for playtime, making it important for parents to offer a variety of nutritious foods and flavors. A key part of inspiring exploration in young children begins with nutrient-rich snacks that help fuel their adventures.

Introducing diverse foods can help expand palates and provides a wide range of nutrients to support the entire family.

When introducing foods into a child’s diet, consistency is key. Experts say babies may need to try a new food up to 10 times before they like it. With a variety of Clean Label Project-certified snacks, Gerber offers solutions you can incorporate into little ones’ diets and bring along for family fun. Some snacks to consider for ages 12 months and over are toddler pouches in Apple Mango Strawberry and Banana Blueberry. For babies in the crawling stage, consider Lil’ Crunchies Mild Cheddar snacks.

Hydrate on the Go

Avoid dehydration by ensuring you’re bringing enough water for the entire family on all your summertime trips, whether they’re around the block or across the country. Use refillable bottles for mom and dad, and for little ones, be sure to pack nonspill sippy cups for toddlers that help avoid messes. Fill a larger container with clean water from home you can use to refill everyone’s cups, bottles and canteens to stay hydrated throughout the day. Find more family-friendly resources, including recipe ideas, meal planning tips and guidance on age-appropriate food introductions, at gerber.com/ parenttalk. (Family Features) 

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHUTTERSTOCK

Commune with California’s Diverse Marine Life

California’s western border is edged by oceans, bays, and other tidal waterways — all populated with their own colorful residents. Depending on the location, you can see popsicle-orange garibaldi, barking elephant seals, sea lions, or anemones, as well as migrating whales and a skyful of seabirds.

The best way to experience these remarkable habitats is to visit one of the state’s 120-plus protected sanctuaries or preserves — not just to see wildlife, but to have fun, too.

“There are places underwater and along the water to play, where you can kayak, scuba dive, surf, tide pool, and watch your kids build sand castles on the beach,” says Rikki Dunsmore, project manager at the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation.

Here are some of Dunsmore’s picks, listed north to south:

Ten Mile Beach, Mendocino County

You’ll have plenty of use for binoculars at this stretch of rugged, unspoiled coastline that’s home to habitats galore. Roughly 18 miles north of Mendocino, the area actually consists of four reserves, including one of California’s least developed estuaries and one of its longest dune systems.

Whales spout in the Pacific, seals loll along the rocky shore, river otters make their home in the estuary, and more than 90 species of birds live, nest, or make annual migratory stopovers here.

Van Damme State Marine

Conservation Area, Mendocino County

This wild and rocky wonderland

is dotted with sea caves, making it a terrific destination for kayakers. Local outfitter Kayak Mendocino rents everything you need at adjacent Van Damme State Park; book a 90-minute guided kayak tour to get a closeup look at the caves and the resident seals and seabirds.

Farallon Islands, Near Marin County

About 30 miles west of the Golden Gate Bridge, this archipelago is a veritable oceanic Eden. Part of the massive Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, the uninhabited Farallon Islands are comprised of rocky outcroppings surrounded by pods of porpoises, dolphins, sea lions and seals.

The refuge also protects the largest seabird rookery in the contiguous U.S., with nesting species including tufted puffins, rhinoceros auklets, and pigeon guillemots.

Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, Moss Beach

This San Mateo County — aka San Francisco Peninsula — reserve has some of the best tide pooling in California. At low tide, you can see crabs, sea stars, swaying anemones and bat stars in the natural rocky reefs just offshore. In the shallow pools, look for bright-yellow sea lemons, algae-hoovering chitons, and turban snails. Keep in mind, though, as a marine protected area, visitors can look, but not touch.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel

Walk a poppy-trimmed path to the dramatic, limestone point at this Monterey County reserve. You’ll see turquoise-blue water, long bands

of bull kelp swaying in the waves, and possibly sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and, farther out, spouting whales. This is also a wonderful place for scuba diving — it’s an underwater tapestry of kelp, fish, nudibranchs, sea stars, and anemones..

Piedras Blancas, San Simeon

This under-the-radar refuge is an amazing wildlife experience — and as a nice bonus, it’s free. Five miles up the coast from Hearst Castle, up to 17,000 walrus-like elephant seals pile up on the narrow strip of rocky beach just steps from Highway 1. If you’re an animal lover, get ready to spend hours in this land-based seal rookery, where the West Coast’s largest pinnipeds breed, birth, molt and rest — and unleash distinctive, roaring bellows that cut through the sound of crashing surf.

Casino Point Marine Park, Catalina Island

A one-hour ferry ride from Long Beach, Catalina Island offers island-town charm, as well as this undersea world of enormous black sea bass, bright orange garibaldi, and two historic shipwrecks. Located next to the island’s landmark Casino building, Casino Point is a popular dive and snorkel spot, where you can also look for spiny lobsters and harmless horn sharks.

Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area, Laguna Beach

The tide pools along this three-mile stretch of Crystal Cove State Park are inhabited by anemones, sea stars and hermit crabs. Time your visit to the Laguna Beach park for low tide, then head to Reef Point and Pelican Point

to search for critters among the rocks and pools. Head into the water to look for bright orange garibaldis, bat rays, and other native fish, and — if you’re lucky — an octopus hiding in a rocky crevice.

San Diego-Scripps Coastal Preserves, La Jolla

This San Diego complex of marine sanctuaries protects habitats ranging from sandy flats and rocky reefs to submarine canyons. It’s also a nice spot to see sea lions, dolphins, safeto-swim-with leopard sharks and — from December to April — migrating whales. Rent kayaks to nose along the rocky coast and look for sea caves. (Visit California) 

Explore California’s sea caves, tidal pools or see if you can spy the orange garibaldi fish, which is California’s state marine fish. PHOTOS ©ADOBE STOCK

Sourdough from Scratch

What better way to celebrate friendship and camaraderie than with comforting foods all can enjoy. Sourdoughs and friendship breads may go in and out of fashion, but you can make them a staple of your inner circle with recipes that are easier than they appear.

Consider this Sourdough Starter, a 7-day process that may seem lengthy at first glance but requires just a few minutes in the kitchen each day. Without breaking the bank, this made-from-scratch solution includes just two ingredients — unbleached flower and warm water — so you can whip up favorites like Plain Sourdough, Everything Loaf, Cinnamon Brown Sugar Loaf and Chocolate Loaf. Some are tempted to give up on a weeklong recipe, but if you can keep a houseplant alive, you can finish this simple starter and reap its delicious rewards.

Find more homemade favorites at Culinary.net. Recipes courtesy Cookin’ Savvy. (Family Features)

Sourdough Starter

Total time 7 days

• Digital kitchen scale

• Unbleached all-purpose flour

• Warm water

• Glass bowl

• Silicone spoon

• Mason jar

Day 1 In glass bowl, stir 50 grams flour and 50

Everything Loaf

• Medium bowl

• Warm water

• Sourdough starter

• Salt

• Unbleached all-purpose flour

• Silicone spoon

• Everything bagel seasoning

• Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 500 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 475 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before sprinkling with everything bagel seasoning, cutting and serving. 

grams warm water. Let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 2 Add 50 grams flour and 50 grams warm water to bowl. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 3 Discard half the starter. Add 100 grams flour and 100 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 4 Discard half the starter. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 5 Discard half the starter then pour remaining starter into Mason jar. Add 150 grams flour and 150 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 6 Discard half the starter. Add 200 grams flour and 200 grams warm water. Stir and let sit at room temperature, covered.

Day 7 Place warm water in bowl and add spoonful of starter to water. If it floats, it’s ready to make bread. If it sinks, repeat Day 6 instructions. If not floating by Day 10, throw out and start over.

Tips If making bread every day, starter will need fed every day. If not making bread every day, starter can stay at room temperature and be fed every other day. If starter can’t be fed, it can be safely stored in refrigerator up to 10 days, covered, without feeding.

To measure correctly, place empty bowl on scale then clear to zero before each measurement. 

Cinnamon Brown Sugar Loaf

• Medium bowl

• Warm water

• Sourdough starter

• Salt

• Unbleached all-purpose flour

• Silicone spoon

• Softened butter

• Brown sugar

• Cinnamon

• Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water,

90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

In bowl, mix 4 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Spread cinnamon mixture on dough. Fold dough from sides, pinching to keep cinnamon inside, then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 475 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven lined with aluminum foil. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 450 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving. 

4 Variations of Friendship Breads

• Medium bowl

• Warm water

• Sourdough starter

• Salt

• Unbleached all-purpose flour

• Cocoa powder

• Sugar

• Silicone spoon

• Milk chocolate chips

• Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 350 grams warm water, 150 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 500 grams flour, 50 grams cocoa powder and 50 grams sugar. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Chocolate Loaf

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times, adding 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips during process, then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper

and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 450 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 40 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving. 

Plain Sourdough

• Medium bowl

• Warm water

• Sourdough starter

• Salt

• Unbleached all-purpose flour

• Silicone spoon

• Sharp knife

In medium bowl, combine 330 grams warm water, 90 grams sourdough starter and 10 grams salt. Stir well then add 525 grams flour. Using silicone spoon, mix dough to sticky ball. Let rest, covered, about 45 minutes.

Pull dough from bottom and stretch to top of dough ball. Repeat around entirety of dough ball a few times then cover. Repeat process four times then cover and let sit at room temperature at least 6 hours but no more than 14 hours. Dough should double.

Sprinkle flour on counter then spread dough flat on floured surface. Fold dough from sides then turn and roll into ball. Place on parchment paper and put back in bowl 1 hour.

Heat oven to 500 F with uncovered Dutch oven inside.

Using sharp knife, score dough then place parchment paper and dough in Dutch oven. Cover with lid and bake 20 minutes then remove lid and lower temperature to 475 F for 25 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 195-205 F. Let rest at least 1 hour before cutting and serving. 

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Enhancing Accessibility and Recreation Through Our Trail System

By Ken Striplin Santa Clarita City Manager

Ofrom dangers on the road.

beauty of our surroundings.

ne of my favorite parts about our community is the ability to walk, bike or ride along our trails and paseos. With over 100 miles of trails keeping us connected throughout neighborhoods and along our streets, pedestrian safety and accessibility is always a top priority when designing new roads, parks and facilities. Over the past two months, we have been doing just that in the community of Canyon Country.

Along the picturesque Sand Canyon Road, the City is currently installing two pedestrian bridges which will allow residents to safely walk the Sand Canyon Trail, which spans 2.7 miles throughout the neighborhood. Due to the lack of safe crossing points for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians along this route, the motivation behind the bridge project was to improve accessibility and safety for all users. These new bridges will create a dedicated space for non-motorized users, protecting them

The bridges are approximately 75 and 78 feet in length, and five and a half feet wide, making them accessible for anyone on the trails. Santa Clarita is known for its equestrian communities, especially in the Sand Canyon area, and these bridges were designed with horse riders in mind as well. Both bridges feature treated wood planks on the deck, making them equine-friendly by providing a stable and comfortable surface for horses to walk on. This design makes it ideal for our equestrian neighbors who want to take a trot along the Sand Canyon Trail.

The bridge locations connect the trail pathway near Condor Ridge Road and Iron Canyon Road, giving residents and visitors a safe option for travel, whether they are taking a morning bike ride or enjoying a warm summer night walk. Recently, the City of Santa Clarita was recognized once again as a Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly City by the League of American Bicyclists for our commitment to creating transportation and recreational resources that benefit our residents. By installing bridges like these, we can encourage our community to live a healthier lifestyle, all while enjoying the natural

This unique trail offers users scenic views of the beautiful mountains that surround our community. The Sand Canyon Trail is just one of the many trails that connect our community through an extensive network of paths and paseos. This not only enhances resident use, but makes it easier and safer for those who are exploring the trail for the first time, or just enjoying the outdoors.

I look forward to seeing our residents using the pedestrian bridges whether on foot, bike or horse. It is projects like this that make me proud of the work we do which directly affects the happiness and safety of our residents every day. To learn more about any of the other hiking or biking trails, please visit HikeSantaClarita.com or BikeSantaClarita.com for an entire list. Let’s continue to explore and enjoy our community together.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@ santaclarita.gov. 

Few things complement warm weather like a summer spread with everyone’s favorite foods. From fresh appetizers and classics like grilled hot dogs to skewered sides and sweet, sugary desserts, these summertime recipes are sure to bring friends, family and neighbors running to get in on the action.

To find more recipe ideas that bring the heat to summer cookouts, visit Culinary.net.

Hot dogs and brats are summer favorites for a reason: the delicious (and personalized) add-ons. Make sure your spread fits everyone’s taste buds with an assortment of tasty toppings like these:

• Ketchup

• Mustard

• Relish

• Hot sauce

• Onions

• Pickles

• Sauerkraut

• Cole slaw

• Jalapenos

• Diced tomatoes

• Guacamole

• Nacho cheese

• Shredded cheese

Grilled Red Potato Skewers

Recipe courtesy of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association

Prep time 10 minutes

Cook time 20 minutes

Servings 4

2 medium russet or Yukon gold Wisconsin potatoes or 6 red Wisconsin potatoes

2 medium zucchini

1/2 smoked sausage rope

4 skewers (12 inches each)

1/2 cup Italian dressing

Preheat grill to medium heat. Cut potatoes in half. Cut zucchini and sausage same width as potatoes. Skewer potatoes, zucchini and sausage. Repeat for each skewer.

Place skewers in dish and cover with Italian dressing. Marinate 5 minutes.

Place skewers on grill and cook 5 minutes on each side, or until potatoes are done. Remove from grill and serve.

Brown Sugar Meringues

Prep time 20 minutes

Cook time 1 hour, plus 1 hour rest time

Yield 3 dozen meringues

Water

6 large egg whites, at room temperature

3/4

1⁄8

2

Preheat oven to 225 F. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

Pour 1 inch of water into medium saucepan and heat it until simmering. In heat-proof bowl, mix egg whites, brown sugar, granulated sugar and salt. Put bowl on top of saucepan and warm mixture until it reaches 125 F. Stir continuously and make sure mixture does not touch water.

Carefully remove from heat. Using electric mixer, beat mixture at high speed 8-10 minutes. Transfer meringue into piping bag fitted with star tip. Pipe 12 meringues per baking sheet.

Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top of meringues, if desired. Bake 1 hour. Turn off oven and allow meringues to rest inside oven 1 hour. Remove from oven and enjoy. (Family Features) 

1 cup Domino Light Brown Sugar

cup Domino Granulated Sugar Easy Baking Tub

teaspoon salt

tablespoons Domino Turbinado Sugar (optional)

Brown Sugar Meringues

Grilled Red Potato Skewers

ENTERTAINMENT

Despite Cast, ‘Eric’ Can Be Difficult and a ‘Tiresome Slog’

By Richard Roeper Signal Contributing Writer

‘Eric’

 (out of four)

A six-episode series on Netflix.

The performances by the versatile Benedict Cumberbatch and the ensemble cast in the Netflix limited series crime drama “Eric” are something to behold.

The camerawork and production design are strikingly evocative of the 1980s New York setting; in particular, some of the darkest and grubbiest and most forbidding and crime-riddled pockets of the city.

Sunday-Thursday, June 16-20, 2024

The plot, with the disappearance of a child at the heart of the story, has echoes of gripping films such as “Ransom” and “Gone Baby Gone,” and draws you in from the start.

And yet.

Despite those elements of prestige TV, “Eric” becomes an increasingly

difficult and tiresome slog over the course of six episodes, in large part

F I R E B R A N D E Sun: 10:00 1:00; Mon to Thu: 1:00 PM Queen of England, Katherine Parr, struggles to sur vive the perilous last months in the life of her ailing and abusive husband, Henr y VIII

I N S I D E O U T 2: T H E I M AX E X P E R I E N C E B Sun: 10:20 1:10 4:10 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:10 7:10

T H E R E L E N T L E S S PAT R I OT Sun: 10:30 4:20; Mon to Thu: 4:20 PM For 30 years, Scott LoBaido has been a voice; fighting with you and for you on so many issues: promoting and celebrating Old Glor y, those who ser ve, and our great American way

T R E A S U R E E Sun: 10:00 1:00 4:00 7:20; Mon & Tue: 1:00 4:00 7:20; Wed: 1:00 4:00 7:00; Thu: 1:00 4:00 7:20

A father- daughter road trip set in 1990s Poland

T U E S DAY E Sun: 10:10 1:10 4:00 7:10; Mon to Thu: 1:10 4:00 7:10

A mother and her teenage daughter must confront Death when it arrives in the form of an astonishing talking bird

BA D B OYS R I D E O R D I E E Sun: 10:10 1:20 4:20 7:20; Mon to Thu: 1:20 4:20 7:20

The world’s favorite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge - of-your seat ac tion and outrageous comedy

T H E WATC H E R S C Sun to Tue: 1:30 4:30 7:30; Wed & Thu: 1:30 4:30

Mina, a 28-year- old ar tist, gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland

T H E G A R F I E L D M OV I E B Sun: 10:30 1:30 4:10 7:30; Mon & Tue: 1:30 4:10 7:30; Wed: 1:30 4:10; Thu: 1:30 4:10 7:30

After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father - scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L Jackson) - Gar field and his canine friend Odie are forced from their per fectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist

T H E FA L L G U Y C 7:00 PM

He s a stuntman, and

and

S O U N D O F H O P E: T H E S TO RY O F P O S S U M T ROT C Wed: 7:00

because of the manner in which it piles on the darkness and the ugliness, to the point where it’s overkill. It doesn’t help that Cumberbatch’s Vincent is such an odious and irredeemable character — the kind of person who by walking into a room makes you want to walk OUT of the room — that it’s a real task to feel empathy for his plight.

Created by the gifted Abi Morgan (“Suffragette”) and filmed in New York City as well as Budapest (!), “Eric” is set against the backdrop of a New York on the verge of collapsing under the weight of rising crime rates, police corruption, the AIDS epidemic, homelessness and endemic racism.

Cumberbatch’s Vincent Anderson is a tightly wound, hard-drinking, verbally abusive and thoroughly unpleasant man who is a master puppeteer and the creator of a “Sesame Street”-esque children’s TV show called “Good Day Sunshine,” and it’s a stretch to believe this guy has ever had a good day or enjoyed the sunshine, but therein lies the dichotomy of it all, one supposes.

(We learn Vincent has mental health issues and had a miserable childhood with his wealthy and cold-hearted parents; it goes to reason that he created this fantasy-world, hap-hap-happy TV show to fill some gaping hole in his heart.)

Vincent and his wife, Cassie (Gaby Hoffman), are in the late stages of a dying marriage that is growing increasingly vituperative, with their 9-year-old son, Edgar (Ivan Howe), caught in the crossfire.

Edgar is clearly frightened by his intense father, who hears about an idea Edgar has for a new puppet and makes his son pitch it to him as if they’re colleagues, with Vincent barking at Edgar, “Keep looking at me. … You gotta pitch this thing. … Horns or no horns — you gotta be SPECIFIC. … Buzz! It’s just nosedived.” Some guy, that Vincent.

After Edgar goes missing on the short walk from his apartment to school, the story branches out in a myriad of directions and takes us into the lives of a number of characters whose lives are impacted by Edgar’s disappearance. McKinley Belcher III

gives a screen-commanding performance as Detective Michael Ledroit, who heads up the case even as he cares for his longtime partner, William (Mark Gillis), who is dying of AIDS.

The wonderful veteran actor Clarke Peters is George, the superintendent of the apartment building where Edgar lives, and whose own apartment contains some disturbing secrets. Wade Allain-Marcus is Gator, who runs a seedy nightclub and was once involved with Ledroit.

Adepero Oduye plays the mother of a 14-year-old Black boy named Marlon (Bence Orere), whose disappearance didn’t garner nearly the media and police attention as Edgar’s. Bamar Kane is Yuusuf, a graffiti tagger and hustler who lives with hundreds, if not thousands, of other unhoused individuals in the tunnels underneath the streets.

With visuals bathed in tones cold and dark, “Eric” follows Vincent as he spirals deeper into alcoholism and addiction, even as he desperately tries to bring to “life” Eric, the Yeti-like puppet Edgar had drawn, and get him on the show, in the hopes Eric the puppet will be the beacon that brings Edgar home. Oh, and an imaginary version of Eric also begins to accompany Vincent, alternately encouraging him and berating him, and we sure hope they don’t run into that imaginary furry guy from “IF” on the streets of New York. We understand Vincent has been dealt a rough hand and isn’t well, but still, watching this guy wallow in his self-centered misery even when his son is missing leaves us repelled.

“Eric” piles on with the dark views of humanity as seen in several other characters, including Vincent’s parents, Ledroit’s precinct captain and William’s sister, who are awful human beings. There’s even a late reveal about a seemingly likable supporting player that seems unnecessarily, arbitrarily nasty. “Eric” is painted in harsh and broad strokes, and the cynicism and ugliness is relentless without being particularly insightful. 

PHOTO CREDIT IMDB

Backstroke Your Way to Improved Health

Exercise provides a number of measureable benefits for people of all ages, including older adults. Swimming is one exercise that may be especially beneficial for seniors.

Many people learn to swim in childhood and sharpen that skill as they get older. Though swimming devotees may get in the water for fun rather than fitness, this popular, joyful and relaxing pastime may be the ideal exercise for seniors looking to improve their overall health, particularly because it is very low-impact.

Water Eases Body Stress

Because the water provides buoyancy while swimming, there is little risk of injury and minimal strain on the body.

Water exercises, including swimming, work all the muscle groups, so it can be a complete exercise, says American Senior Communities.

Swimming also is a great cardiovascular exercise that can strengthen the heart muscle and improve lung function and endurance. Because it lowers blood pressure and improves circulation, swimming is a great way to get the heart pumping.

Burns More Calories Than Walking

A gentle, 30-minute swim can burn

up to 200 calories, which is more than walking. A faster swim can burn calories more quickly than running or cycling. However, since water supports up to 90% of the body’s weight, this activity will put less stress on muscles and joints while one is exercising.

Individuals with mobility issues or arthritis pain may find that swimming helps relieve discomfort and improves range of motion. Again, because the water is doing much of the work holding up the body, it will take the stress off of joints, helping a person to feel better while stretching and moving gently in the water.

Don’t Have to Swim

Even seniors who don’t know how to swim can still reap the benefits of water exercise. Walking in shallow water, or using a kickboard to stay above the water can be effective.

Using foam dumbbells or even pushing and pulling one’s arms through the water can serve as a great resistance exercise that builds strength.

Swimming and additional water activities are great ways for seniors to stay in shape. As always, individuals should speak with their doctors before beginning any exercise regimen to ensure that it is safe. (MC) 

• I hear fine as long as I turn the sound up

• Wearing a hearing aid will make me look old

• I don’t have time to check my hearing

• If you relate to any of these CALL US!

QWhat are the stars of “Succession” doing now that the series has ended? I know the actor who played Kendall is doing theater, but what about the other siblings?

— N.G.

AYes, Jeremy Strong, who won an Emmy for his portrayal of troubled son Kendall Roy on HBO’s “Succession,” is currently starring in the Broadway revival of Henrik Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People.” His performance is scheduled for a 16-week run only. However, he’s also starring in “The Apprentice,” a film about Donald Trump’s rise to power in the ‘70s and ‘80s, which recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. In the film, Strong plays attorney Roy Cohn to Sebastian Stan’s (“I, Tonya”) Trump.

Alan Ruck, who played presidential

BOOK REVIEW

candidate Connor Roy in “Succession,” recently co-starred in the film “The Burial” with Jamie Foxx. You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video. Next up for the Emmy-nominated actor is the horror comedy “Crust” and the crime film “Wind River: The Next Chapter.”

Kieran Culkin, who won an Emmy in the final season for the even more troubled son Roman Roy, stars opposite Jesse Eisenberg in the upcoming

BookTrib’s Bites

Wolf’s Head Bay Book II: The Race for Home

By Jeffery Allen Boyd

“Auction?” Richard repeated incredulously. “You mean a — an actual modern-day slave auction — in this country?”

The frightened yet determined group of teens led by Jeremy make a harrowing escape by helicopter, taking with them incriminating evidence exposing both the Colonel and the human trafficking global Network. With Jeremy at the controls, they are pursued by the black Scorpion. Owing to his limited piloting skills they are quickly forced down into the remote northern Michigan wilderness. In Book II, the group is alone and isolated. Unable to communicate with the outside world and on the run not only from Spear, the lethal enforcer within the trafficking Network and the Colonel’s trained assassin, but

film “A Real Pain.” It’s listed as a comedy-drama, so hopefully, his character won’t be as tortured as Roman was.

Lastly, the only Roy daughter — but just as much of a force to be reckoned with — was played by the Emmy-winning Sarah Snook. She’s set to star in the upcoming Peacock series “All Her Fault” as a mother whose son goes missing. It’s based on the novel of the same title by Andrea Mara.

QIs there going to be another “Knives Out” sequel? If so, when?

— A.I.

AAccording to Entertainment Weekly, the game is “once again afoot for renowned detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig).” “Knives Out,” a hit whodunit film, has spawned one sequel already, called “Glass Onion,” and another is on the way, titled “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.” Look for it to premiere in 2025, likely around Thanksgiving. The cast of the third installment includes Glenn Close (“Hillbilly Elegy”), Mila Kunis (“Black Swan”) and Jeremy Renner (“Hawkeye”), with

also from deadly government operatives, what will save them? Jeremy’s resourcefulness and dogged determination, or younger brother Travis’ faith … and will it be enough?

Human Justice

By Human and the Lights

Human Justice is the true story of a human rights lawyer’s last trial in a 15-year career spent helping humans living on the margins enforce civil rights and anti-discrimination laws. Corporate values, which are only about money and nothing else, played out to their logical extreme in the trial, signaling that corporatism is in-

compatible with a sustainable future for our species and planet.

The harmonic divide reverberating in society is less about blue values versus red values, and more about human values versus corporate values. Human values must always trump corporate values. If we lead with our hearts and behave as if what’s good for our neighbor is good for us, it would be the greatest evolutionary leap in human history. If humanity, rejected corporate values and went with human values, then money, competition, and war would all disappear.

the setting still a mystery. EW hints that the teaser video gave off “some seriously spooky, Gothic vibes.”

QWill season three of “The Bear” be on FX or just on Hulu? I’m excited that they’re finally airing the two previous seasons on regular cable.

— L.A.

AThe FX channel is finally airing the first two seasons of the Emmy-winning comedy (which many call a drama) “The Bear.” Although FX and Hulu have a partnership, the show wasn’t available on FX until now. Despite the show already being a huge hit for the streamer, they’re hoping to lure in even more subscribers to Hulu by getting them hooked on the series on FX first.

So, yes, the third season will only be available on Hulu later this month on June 27, but if you still don’t wish to pay for Hulu, you’ll probably get a chance to catch up on the series next summer, too. 

©2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

The New Testament, Second Edition: A 21st Century Translation By

Michael Straus

A translation that brings some fresh turns of phrase to the New Testament’s varied texts. Not designed to supplant prior translations but to shed light on obscure passages; capture the humanity of Jesus’ personality as presented in the Gospels; intelligibly convey doctrine and experience as related in Acts and the Epistles; and reflect the atemporal nature of the Book of Revelation.

The translation seeks to be at once enjoyable, novelistic and at times poetic, avoiding the overly literal, freely adopting the colloquial, and taking grammatical license where the writer employed imagery not subject to standard linguistic limitations.

As a whole it approaches Scripture as the viva vox evangelii, with ongoing linguistic presence through credal, liturgical, sermonic and other forms of expression. 

BookBites is presented by Book Trib.com.

Alan Ruck in “The Burial” PHOTO COURTESY AMAZON PRIME VIDEO

How Exercise Can Help Build a Stronger Heart

The benefits of physical activity are well-documented.

Adults may be reminded of the short- and long-term benefits of exercise when visiting their physicians for annual well visits or to treat an illness.

Though exercise is often viewed as a means to losing weight, it’s equally important for people of all ages to recognize the many other ways physical activity benefits the body, including its role in heart health.

The World Health Organization reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death across the globe. A host of variables can lead to a CVD diagnosis, and a sedentary lifestyle is among them. By including exercise in their daily routines, individuals can build a stronger heart that benefits their bodies in myriad ways.

Exercise, the Heart and Lung function

The National Heart, Lung and

Blood Institute notes that regular moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity strengthens the heart muscle. A stronger heart is more capable of pumping blood to the lungs, which the NHLBI notes ensures a stronger blood flow to the muscles.

Exercise and Blood Oxygen Levels

Exercise helps to increase oxygen levels in the blood by improving the ability of the heart to pump blood not only to the lungs, but throughout the body. That’s a notable benefit, as the

Cleveland Clinic notes hypoxia, a condition marked by low blood oxygen levels, can lead to adverse health conditions, such as damage to individual organ systems, including the brain.

Exercise and Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease is a condition marked by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which the NHLBI notes supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. Moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity has been linked to a lower

CLASS SPECIALTY CARE

Mayo Newhall Hospital and Keck Medicine of USC are partnering to bring advanced services — cancer care, breast health, colorectal surgery, and specialty urology — to our community in the Santa Clarita Valley. Keck Medicine’s USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center brings the latest innovations in cancer detection, prevention, and treatment to help you get the care you need close to home.

risk for coronary heart disease because it can help people lower their blood pressure; reduce a type of fat in the blood known as triglycerides; increase “good” cholesterol levels; help the body manage its blood sugar and insulin levels; and reduce levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a sign of inflammation associated with a higher risk of heart disease.

These are just a handful of the ways that exercise can help individuals build a stronger heart. Individuals who have already been diagnosed with heart disease and have lived a largely sedentary lifestyle are urged to speak with their physicians about safe ways to incorporate exercise into their daily routines.

Vigorous aerobic activity may not be safe for people who have heart disease, so anyone in that situation should not simply begin exercising on their own. A healthy heart is a building block of a long life. More information about exercise and heart health can be found at nhlbi.nih.gov. (MC) 

HOME

High Return-On-Investment Home Projects

Whether you’re looking to add value for potential sale or simply create a more comfortable living space, you can make the most of the season and breathe new life into your home with projects that provide a high return on investment (ROI).

Consider these top home renovation projects to tackle this spring from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products — a leader in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more — based on the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling Magazine.

Remodel the Kitchen and Bathroom

The average seller can expect an 96.1% return on a light touch to the kitchen, according to the report, and 73.7% on a modest bathroom reno-

vation. Because personal preferences can vary widely among buyers, minor upgrades can provide a higher ROI than large, upscale remodels.

A few easy ways to refresh your kitchen or bathroom include updating shelving or adding new hardware. Decorative trim and mouldings are

also cost-effective ways to add visual interest.

Upgrade with Stone Veneer

As natural and textured home trends continue, homeowners are gravitating toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone, adding comfort, character and beauty to homes.

Install New Windows

Depending on the harshness of winter in your area and the age of your home, you may notice certain windows have developed drafts, allowing cold air to enter and heat to escape. Replacing drafty or outdated windows with modern, energy-efficient models is one of the most effective ways to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. Additionally, a vinyl window replacement brings approximately 67.1% ROI.

Replace Siding

In some cases, applying a fresh coat of paint is enough to refresh your home. However, if you’re looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal while making a long-term impact, consider installing new siding or replacing existing siding. Because vinyl siding serves as an additional layer of insulation, improving the energy efficiency of your heating and cooling systems, it offers a 80.2% ROI.

An option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products offers the authentic, handcrafted look of stone in a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s also no need to paint, coat or seal once installed. Ideal for its ability to add texture and dimension throughout both home interior (accent walls and fireplaces) and exterior applications (siding, entryways and walkways), stone veneer — which comes with a 153.2% ROI — can influence mood, emotion and energy levels while serving as a focal point of your home’s design.

Weather-resistant, low-maintenance siding like Celect Cellular Composite Siding, which is now available in on-trend colors including Imperial Red, a robust shade of red; Deep Pewter, a compellingly modern forest green; and Timberland, a rich, natural brown, won’t warp, sag or buckle and is built to withstand even the harshest weather conditions. Its patented interlocking joints provide a seamless look and it’s easy to install in small spaces, like along a knee or pony wall.

Update Decking

If you want to entertain guests outside, spring is a perfect time to get your patio or deck ready. While a new coat of stain can update your existing deck’s appearance and help protect it, spring is also an ideal time to build a deck if your home doesn’t currently have one.

When choosing a decking material, cost and maintenance are two factors to consider. Composite decking offers a 68.2% ROI and is low maintenance as it’s not susceptible to cracking, warping and weather damage. Find more ideas to update your home this spring at WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com. (Family Features) 

Five Patio Projects to Enhance Outdoor Living

Warm weather paves the way to more opportunities to enjoy fresh air. For homeowners who have the luxury of outdoor spaces, including private patios, now is the time to start thinking about projects to enhance these gathering spots.

A patio can be considered a transitional area that links the outdoors to the inside of a home. According to the home and lifestyle resource The Spruce, a patio is often an oasis for lounging and entertaining. And depending on homeowners’ budgets and preferences, a patio can be just as comfortable and stylish as interior spaces. The following are five patio projects that can transform these valuable spaces.

Pretty Pergola

A pergola is an open-air (traditionally wood) structure that adds a measure of shade and privacy without completely blocking views of Mother Nature. Installing a pergola over the patio helps define the seating area. Hanging plants can add to the ambiance and string lights can make this a great spot to gather when the sun sets.

Patio Fire Pit

Build a fire pit right into the design with the same materials used to create the patio. For example, if the patio is brick or flagstone, build up to create an eye-catching fire pit. Fire pits not only look good, they also expand the time frame that the patio can be enjoyed, offering cozy spots to sit even when the weather chills.

Frame it in

Make the patio a true extension of the inside by putting up walls around three sides of the patio if it connects to the home. Leave the last open to the yard, or consider installing screens to mim-

ic the look of popular lanais. The walls will offer more weather protection, meaning you can invest in high-quality patio furniture to make this a fully functioning outdoor living room. Hang a television that is rated for outdoor use for movie-watching under the sun or stars.

Ooh

la la

Vintage bistro tables and chairs can turn a drab patio into one that calls to mind a Parisian courtyard. Whimsical lighting and accents that you would normally think to see indoors, like a gilded mirror, can add extra appeal. Soften wrought iron and other metals on the furniture by includ-

ing plenty of flowers and greenery. Don’t forget the candles and a place to stash a bottle of chilling wine.

Farmhouse chic

Transform a patio into an entertaining space that caters to guests A large farmhouse style table flanked by benches and some upholstered chairs sets the scene for a dinner amid the fresh air. Watering cans filled with wildflowers and mismatched flatware establish a casual feel for gatherings in the space. For those who plan to cook and serve outside with frequency, invest in outdoor appliances so you’ll never have to miss a beat with guests.

The options for transforming patios into stylish gathering spots is only limited by the imagination.

(MC) 

AUTOMOTIVE

Do-It-Yourself Car Care That Everyone Can Do

While taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, the Car Care Council reminds vehicle owners there are few simple vehicle checks that they can easily learn and do themselves to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently all summer long.

With basic knowledge of common maintenance practices and a little time, motorists can inspect the following components in their own driveway:

Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.

Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer fluid and antifreeze/coolant. Check the hoses and belts as they can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system.

Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior

lighting is working properly and inspect and replace worn wiper blades. Keep the reservoir filled with windshield washer fluid.

To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. Never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir. As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. Check the gas cap to ensure it is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating. Don’t neglect the exterior. When washing the outside, make sure to include the tires and wheels and the underside and fenders to eliminate any road salt or grime. The body of the vehicle should be washed using a product sold specifically for cars. Wax your vehicle every six months.

To learn more about how to care for your vehicle, and for a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit www.carcare.org. (Family Features) 

15% OFF

Please present this coupon to the host upon arrival and receive 15% discount on Dinner Sunday through Thursday Excludes tax & gratuity. Not valid with other offers, holidays or special events

How to Support Your Pet’s Health DURING SUMMER

As a pet parent, you know your pet’s needs are continually evolving. That’s true during different stages of growth and even as the seasons change.

Part of supporting your pet throughout the year is understanding the specific risks that come with changing weather and special seasonal events. Supporting pets this summer can be easier with these tips:

Summer Health Concerns

It may be an exciting time of year for humans with all the extra activities, seasonal celebrations and travel, but those summer pastimes can add up to a whole lot of stress for pets. In addition, environmental factors like allergens and heat can affect them more than you realize.

Allergies Pets can be affected by many of the same allergens as humans, including grass, pollen and other vegetation that is more prevalent during warmer months. Watch for signs of trouble such as scratching, chewing, watery eyes and general discomfort. Veterinarians can offer advice on allergy support and supplements appropriate for your pet’s age, breed and size.

Fireworks Summer tends to bring more loud noise and commotion in general, but this is especially true around the Fourth of July when explosions become the norm. If pets are fearful, it’s especially important to ensure they stay in well-secured areas since fireworks are a common cause of pets running away.

If possible, find a safe spot within your house where outside noises are muffled. Provide some comfort items and check on them regularly. If they seem extremely distressed, vet-recommended anxiety treatments and supplements can help promote relaxation and soothe their nerves.

Travel If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, summer trips can be especially problematic. One solution is to take your pet with you, but that’s not always practical or even possible. When pets with separation anxiety stay behind, it’s a good idea to leave them with someone they know, and even better if that person can stay in your home so pets are in familiar surroundings.

If that’s not an option, introducing pets to their caretaker or doing a trial run at the kennel can help ease their nerves. In extreme cases, you may need to consult with a vet about supplements that can help soothe pets in your absence.

Dehydration Just like humans, hotter temperatures make it easier to get dehydrated, which can lead to myriad health concerns. Ensure pets have access to fresh, clean and cool water at all times and be sure to alert your veterinarian if you notice any changes in their interest in drinking, as that can signal an issue.

Also watch for signs of dehydration, such as weakness, less energy, changes in appetite and panting.

Managing Activity Levels

During the summer months, pets may be tempted to take it easy in the heat, or you may have the opposite problem: a pet that’s a little too active for the elements. Monitoring their activity level is

important to ensure they don’t get overheated but also get adequate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and keep muscle tone strong. This may require getting creative about bringing playtime indoors or shifting your routine to accommodate walks early or late in the day when temperatures tend to be more forgiving.

Introducing Health Supplements

Monitoring pets’ health isn’t a one-size-fits-all effort. In fact, different breeds have distinct needs when it comes to exercise, behavioral training and even nutrition. Supplements, from multifunctional solutions to those targeting specific issues, can help complement regular food to ensure pets are getting all of the nutrients and preventative support they need to thrive. One comprehensive option is NaturVet’s Breed Specific Soft Chews supplement line, which is made up of five products that provide proactive support for distinct dog breed categories, including toy/small, bully, sport/working, doodle and giant.

The vet-formulated soft chew line was designed to offer a streamlined and personalized supplement approach for breeds with particular health needs. To support pets precisely as they are, each product offering is formulated for pure and mixed breed dogs alike, delivering tailored, wholesome ingredients to address joint, allergy, immune, heart, gut, anxiety and dental issues.

Find more advice for supporting your pet’s health this summer and beyond at naturvet.com. (Family Features) 

SOLUTIONS

Opinion

READER LETTERS

Pandemic Pondering

Remember when they said, “If it can save one life, then it’s worth it?”

Well, if it takes just as many lives, then it definitely wasn’t worth it.

In case you haven’t heard, the number of deaths in the UK are running at the same level as during the COVID-19 pandemic, year after year after year now, yet the deaths are no longer being caused by COVID. Something similar is happening here in the U.S., and all around the world. And unlike COVID deaths, these tend toward the young.

Even aside from vaccine side effects, there is very little doubt that the number of cumulative years of quality human life that will have been lost by the response to the pandemic will vastly outweigh the cumulative years “saved.”

How much damage was done to cardiovascular health by confining billions of people to their homes — closing parks and gyms and almost any form of outdoor recreation, closing down higher-quality dinein options but leaving the drivethrough windows buzzing 24 hours a day?

It is pretty well-established that obesity can shave over a decade off of a person’s life. But even just being overweight can trim off a few years. Imagine the collective impact of pushing tens of millions of people’s scales up by 10-20 pounds.

“Alright everyone! We’ve got a virus on the loose that is pretty mild as long as you are in good cardiovascular shape. So let’s crank up the junk food consumption, scale way back on the exercise, and wear masks as often as possible! Don’t worry, we’re from the government and we’re here to help!”

Rob Kerchner Valencia

A Simple Process?

There are many who believe that since the vast majority of near-death experiences are experienced in the

same way — floating over your body, feelings of infinite love and joy, tunnels of light, visions of departed loved ones, angels, Jesus, etc. — then the reason must be that there is an afterlife, God, heaven, etc.

What else could it mean, right?

To each his own. However, I will propose a very simple and logical reasoning as to why near-death experiences are all so similar. I call it the “Standard Shutdown Sequence.”

Our physical bodies are composed of a finite number of interconnected systems, and we have all seen them in biology class. In the most general sense there’s is the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and the neural, which includes the brain.

I’ve left out lots of minuscule details, but they’re not relevant to my proposal.

Aside from the few of us who are aliens from another world (i.e. Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos) most of us have all of the same systems. The death of a human body commences with the initiation of the sequence.

During the sequence various systems in the body start slowing down, cooling down, in preparation for final shutdown — not unlike what pilots do in the cockpit while landing the plane and then after the plane has landed. Yes, I think that’s a good analogy.

What the dying person then consciously experiences is, for the most part, mental analogs of that sequence, and thus “sees” whatever they think they’re supposed to see or want to see – similar to dreaming.

No afterlife, nothing supernatural, no “soul,” just natural processes coming to an end — and unto dust you shall return. It’s really that simple.

Now for my question: Is it disappointingly, or even depressingly, simple?

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

The Ethics of Fatherhood

By David Hegg

Over my years as an adult male, I have worked at many different jobs, especially during college, grad school and our first years of marriage. I worked on a farm, on a loading dock, as a framer, for a funeral home, and in a hardware store. I’ve worked in the financial industry and owned two small businesses. I currently teach at the college level and pastor a large church.

and actions, that a disciplined life will bring the most satisfaction and the most significance. He never, ever considered it to be true that quality time could be a substitute for quantity time. Most of what he taught me came as we were walking, working, or driving. He never planned our sessions. They just flowed out of our life together.

Along the way, I have had to do many things that were difficult, beyond my abilities, and just plain no fun. Like many of you reading this, I’ve been mistreated, misunderstood, opposed, humiliated, scorned and exhausted in the workplace. But I always had an advantage. My dad taught me how to work and how to think about work.

My father was a plodder. He was good at a few important things, but his success in life was due to the fact that he never quit and always knew why he was doing what he was doing. He taught me that work was a privilege, not an entitlement. And it was never about the money. It was about the work. Money was just the happy bloom on a healthy plant.

Dad died several years ago after a long and agonizing bout with Alzheimer’s. As they say, it was a very long goodbye as the disease took his mind, bit by bit, long before taking his body. The surprising thing is how often I still hear his words rattling around in my brain. More and more, I realize that his father power has been deep and far-reaching in my life. I am my father’s son. And I also realize that my job as a father is among the most important things I will ever do.

Every job I’ve had came with a set of standards by which my performance was to be measured. In every case, rules governed how I worked, how I was to accomplish my tasks, and what the reward would be. Being a father is no different, except that there is really only one rule. Give your life for your family. That’s it. Fathering is all about seeing your wife and kids as more important to you than you are to yourself. It is about joyful sacrifice to make sure they have all they need. It is about leadership that looks to their best future and makes it happen, even at personal expense. It is about doing the hard things, the right things, the necessary and essential things.

Arthur Saginian Santa

Clarita

Submit a Letter to the Editor Include name, address & phone. E-mail: letters@signalscv.com.

Dad believed that work was a gift from God, given to us to bring about a vast array of good things. Over time, work produced discipline, perseverance and strength. Work was a laboratory for creativity, personal growth and service to others. It was both a physical and intellectual exercise that kept the body and mind growing and invested in life. Work was a privilege. This theology of work was just one of the many things my dad poured into my life. There were many, many more. He taught me that the most important thing I could do to be a good dad was to have a great marriage. He said, “The greatest gift you can give your kids is to love their mother.”

He also taught, through his words

Mostly, it is about sacrificially loving your family to the place where their success becomes your greatest significance. That’s father power, and our country needs all we can get.

Thanks, Dad.

Local resident David Hegg is senior pastor of Grace Baptist Church. “Ethically Speaking” appears Sundays. 

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