Who knew that exercise has a payoff?

First lady Michelle Obama’s personal trainer has revealed the secret behind her toned arms. And what a shocker: It involves sweaty tedium in a gym. Knock us over with a feather.

This is just another example of the Obamas being out of step with mainstream Americans. While the first lady sculpts her Michelle Arms, the rest of us concentrate on our Newt Gingrich Bellies.

Return to Frass Canyon: Wineries in central California’s Santa Ynez Valley report the 2004 movie “Sideways” still attracts tourists to their area. Folks visit the restaurants and tasting rooms featured in the film.

Wonder if anyone has the nerve to order a glass of merlot.

Next stop: the doghouse: Every homeowner needs a basic set of tools, and we’ve got a list of five must-haves.

One essential is a cordless drill, and the article’s author, one Stacy Finz of the San Francisco Chronicle, recommends a $329 Makita driver-drill.

A husband who buys a $329 tool for installing light-switch cover plates and stirring cans of paint will need a sixth essential: a comfortable couch to sleep on at night.

— Mark Carlson, Herald staff

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Sunday, June 1

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

A rendering of the new vessels to be built for Washington State Ferries. (Washington State Ferries)
Editorial: Local shipyard should get shot to build state ferries

If allowed to build at least two ferries, Nichols Brothers can show the value building here offers.

Demonstrators gather as part of the National Law Day of Action outside the Supreme Court in Washington, May 1, 2025. (Tierney L. Cross/The New York Times)
Comment: Justice is blind; it shouldn’t be silenced

Politicians play a dangerous game by accusing judges who rule against them of defying the voters’ will.

State should split ferry contract to keep jobs, speed up build

On Jan. 8, Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson, transportation leaders from the Senate and… Continue reading

Has Trump read Paine’s ‘Common Sense’?

Will Donald Trump, who says he “runs the world” and approved a… Continue reading

Youth Forum: Zoos today provide education and protection

Zoos today allow better understanding of animal needs and are aiding in saving species from extinction.

Youth Forum: Students need hands-on learning of animal dissection

It can help students decide a career path in life sciences; because of USDA oversight it’s safe.

Forum: New stadium a civic project that can deliver on its vision

Along with keeping the AquaSox in town, it offers a wealth of broader public benefits for Everett.

Forum: Pope Leo’s election a welcome reminder to protect workers

His choice of Leo XIII as his namesake is important for his attitudes toward dignity, justice and labor.

The Buzz: On the menu: tacos, tainted lettuce, free-range ostrich

While Trump was enjoying TACO Tuesday, RFK Jr. had his eye on a wobble of bird flu-stricken ostriches.

May 28, 2025: Trump Budget Bill
Editorial cartoons for Saturday, May 31

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Comment: Trump doesn’t want to fix Harvard; he wants to control it

Crippling Harvard and its students would hit all of higher ed and U.S. leadership in research and more.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.