A F A T H E R ' S D A Y T R I B U T E

New roles, new joys

ANNETTE LEIN staff photographer

Reggie Cox tries to make time for each of his 10 children — including Ishmael, age 5 (left), and Jesaiah, age 6.

Fatherhood today is aboutcaring and disciplining,worrying and celebrating,teaching and learning.

More is expected of dads.And many are rising to thechallenge, finding ways to begood parents despite divorce,work responsibilities and otherobstacles.

Reggie Cox of Rochester is

trying to teach his 10 childrenlessons he learned the hard way.Among them: "When you'recommitted to something, youendure. You put up with stuffyou would normally walk awayfrom."

We talked to Cox and twoother local dads about the strug-gles and joys of fatherhood, a

— CHRIS SWINGLE

ON P A G E 5A

Three local fathers' stories:

Reggie COX overcame problems withalcohol and drugs, and strives to be arole model to his family of 10.

Gerry MaSOn'S struggles with hisidentity precipitated his divorce andbitterness between him and his children.Now they admire him for being strong.

JOSe Rivera Jr. draws lessons fromhis father's military career, but plays adifferent role in the life of his own son.