Hancock

John Hancock is an alcoholic and an amnesiac jerk that just happens to have superpowers. Causing chaos and destruction while trying to complete his superhero duties and he continues to make enemies among the population. Ray Embrey, a public relations executive is nearly hit by a train but is saved by having his car thrown to the side by Hancock. Ray decides to have the superhero over for dinner to thank him and propose a new PR strategy. Ray’s son is a big fan of Hancock but his wife is not and urges Ray to get Hancock out of their life.

The Embrey household has a Thursday night tradition called “spaghetti madness” which includes eating spaghetti and meatballs with the family and the new addition of Hancock. There have been numerous studies regarding the benefits of having a night designated for “family togetherness”. Many believe that sharing a dinner with the family can “contribute to children’s cognitive and personal development, as well as …strengthen the bond between children and parents.” Studies have shown that family dinner rituals can result in “lower rates of substance abuse, depression, pregnancy, alcoholism and eating disorders.” Children who grow up without a family night are more likely to eat unhealthy and skip meals later in life. Also, other studies show that the positive effects of having family dinners are neutralized by including watching the television while eating. Not only do the behavioral and psychological effects of family dinner get undone but studies show that if you watch television while you eat dinner you are less likely to have adequate servings of fruits and vegetables.

Take a look at the family’s schedule and pick a night that is good for everyone. Find new recipes to try out, have a “request” night or breakfast for dinner night. Turn off the television and make it special. Grab your family and start a tradition. You could start with the Embrey’s favorite; try the Spaghetti and Meatball recipe below.

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ingredients

Coarse salt and ground pepper
¼ Cup finely grated Parmesan
¼ Cup chopped fresh parsley
2 Cloves of garlic, minced
1 Large egg
1 Pound ground beef chuck
¼ Cup plain dried breadcrumbs
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes in puree
¾ Pound Spaghetti

Preparation

Set a large pot of salted water to boil. In a bowl combine parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add the beef and breadcrumbs, mix gently. Form into 16 balls. In a 5 quart dutch oven or pot heat oil over medium. Add meatballs, turning occasionally until browned. Add tomatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover and cook stirring occasionally until meatballs are cooked through. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and return to pot, add meatballs and sauce. Toss gently.