By Karen Bloom
Whether it be a day on the golf course, puttering around the house, or watching the game on TV, there are many ways to acknowledge Dad with the recognition he deserves. The idea of Father's Day was first proposed in 1909 by Mrs. John B. Dodd, who wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart, a widower who had raised his six children on his own. It's said she was inspired while a Mother's Day parade.The first Father's Day was observed on June 19, 1910 in Spokane, Washington. In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge declared the third Sunday in June as the official day to celebrate Dads. Ever since, families have honored their fathers with gifts and special outings.For all those still trying to figure out what Dad might enjoy, here a some suggestions:
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Ask yourself what his interests are. Although the dad who enjoys golfing is by now probably used to receiving golf balls, tees, golf towels, a driver, or other utilitarian golf gear, you can't go wrong giving him something you know he'll actually use.
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Give him something to wear. Dad probably doesn't have much of an inclination to shop, so help him out with a new shirt or whatever it is that he needs.
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Take him on a trip down memory lane. Was he in the Armed Forces? Did he play in his college jazz band? Look for a book that will spark some nostalgia.
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Give him the choice. Put the power of the gift his hands with a gift certificate. That way he can select something he truly wants and needs.Now that you've figured out the gift, what do you do with Dad on his special Day (especially since the Mets-Yankees series at Shea is sold out)? Use some creative thinking and you'll see there's an opportunity to have a great time with Dad on Sunday. Here are some weekend picks:
Father's Day Weekend Festival
Take Dad and shop from an array of arts and crafts, general merchandise, Saturday and Sunday, June 14 15, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Seaford LIRR Station, Sunrise Hwy. (631) 724-5966.
Kennedy Plaza Fine Arts Show
Two full days, Saturday and Sunday, June 14-15, of outdoor art exhibits, near the shore in Long Beach. Painting sculpture, photography, drawings, and more. Plus a selection of musical entertainment. Kennedy Plaza on Park Ave., Long Beach. 431-1000 ext. 207.
Dave & Buster's Father's Day
Celebration
This entertainment/restaurant complex is offering a mesquite barbecue buffet and the opportunity to view that Yankees-Mets game on a huge 9x12' screen, June 15, noon-4 p.m. Reservations required. 1856 Veteran's Hwy., Islandia. (631) 582-6615.
Father's Day Cruise
Enjoy a 3 1/2 hour scenic cruise with Freeport's Nautical Cruise Lines, June 15, 1-4 p.m. Buffet meal is served. Reservations required. 28A Woodcleft Ave., Freeport. 623-5712.
Long Island Skydiving Center
For something truly different, try an adrenaline-charged experience unlike any other. Freefall at 120 mph for one minute, then enjoy a serene canopy ride overlooking the shoreline, with certified instructors. Spadaro's Airport, 91 Montauk Hwy., East Moriches. (866) LIJUMPS.
International Cultures Festival
Spend the day in Manhattan and sample the food of lands you may never visit (Vietnam, Herzegovina), watch folk dance performances, and buy fun souvenirs, June 15, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Madison Ave. from 42nd to 57th Sts. (212) 302-2222.
WABC Father's Day 5-Mile Run
If Dad's a jogger, he might want to participate in this five mile run in Central Park to benefit prostate cancer research, while the family cheers him on, June 15, 8 a.m. Call the New York Road Runner's Club to register, (212) 860-4455.
