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Dad is a good guy. He’s always there, ready to fix a leaky faucet or kill a spider on a moment’s notice. He’s always around to lift and move heavy objects, he’ll go out in the 100 degree Florida summer heat to mow the lawn, and he’ll risk his life on the roof to string up the Christmas lights. And through it all, he never complains. So, show Dad how much you appreciate all the jars he’s opened for you and all the money he put into your karate or ballet career in grade school. This Father’s Day, skip the tie or coffee mug and get him something that says “Thanks, Dad, for always being there to fix the sink. You’re the best!”

To fully show your appreciation with a great gift on Father’s Day, you need to think about what kind of guy Dad is and what you think he could use or enjoy. Is he a big sports junkie? Does he enjoy the outdoors? Does he like movies? Does he enjoy his leisure time, or does it seem like he can’t stop working in the garage and around the house? Here’s a brief breakdown of some not-so-lame gift ideas to thank Dad for putting on pants when you have company.

FOR THE TECKIE DAD:

For the technologically-inclined Dad who loves to keep up with the latest video games and electronics, you might consider surprising him with a cool new game console. The Nintendo Wii and PS3 have been the forerunners in the video game scene, and for good reason. The Nintendo Wii would allow Dad to get into the game with bowling, tennis, or golf, among other things. And with the PS3, you could not only play some of the most impressive video games on the market, but you can also use it to play Blu-ray DVDs, store music and photos, or even play against other gamers anywhere in the world! On Amazon.com, the Wii goes for around $340 for a new console, and the PS3 runs at about $400. Some other cool ideas for the cyber-savvy Dad include MP3 players, home audio systems, or for the man who won’t ever ask for directions, a GPS!

FOR THE SPORTY DAD:

For the sporting Dad who enjoys spending time outdoors, there are several cool things you can do for Dad that don’t include giving him things that he already has. If he’s already got all the putters and drivers he needs, maybe get him an hour-long lesson at any of the many golf courses in the Southwest Florida area. Some public golf courses in the area that offer golf lessons include the Bay Beach Golf Club in Fort Myers Beach, Eastwood Golf Club in Fort Myers, and El Rio Golf Club in North Fort Myers. If Dad likes fishing, you could charter a deep-sea fishing trip for him, and there’s plenty to choose from! Just go to http://www.worldwidefishing.com/florida/salt.htm, and pick one out from any of the listed clients in the area. Bon Voyage!

FOR THE FOODIE DAD:

If your Dad prefers to relax indoors rather than outdoors, then perhaps you can help him unwind with some fine drinks and smokes. Keep Dad’s heart healthy with some red wine. Check out http://www.brix26.com/ for some great selections on the best California wines to spoil him with. If Dad is more of a beer guy, let him try some worldly beers from home and abroad - http://www.majesticliquors.com/products/beers/featured.php has an impressive collection of brews for all tastes and preferences. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a Bud Light, but on Father’s Day, it’s Dad’s turn to be adventurous. Finally, let Dad become a sophisticated man of the world by giving him a box of cigars. But not just any cigars – because when it comes to cigars, there’s nothing that compares to Cuban cigars. You can check around on http://www.cubancrafters.com/ to pick out something that Dad will be sure to love.

FOR THE COUCH POTATO DAD:

After everything Dad does for you and your family day-in and day-out, maybe he just wants to sit there in front of the TV and rest. Who could blame him? It’s hard work installing new light fixtures and replacing door knobs. Give the man a comfy place to sit and, inevitably, fall asleep while watching M-A-S-H reruns. Nothing says comfort to a hardworking Dad like a La-Z-Boy. Any kind of big, comfy reclining chair will work, really, since the Dad genome actually has a well-known weakness for reclining chairs. Find some great recliners at http://www.la-z-boy.com/furniture/catalog.aspx?cid=1 and let Dad catch up on some well-deserved rest.

FOR THE ROCK’N’ROLL DAD:

Sometimes Dads can be nostalgic. Indulge him in remembering the good old days with a gift that’s both classic and contemporary with some cool record label coasters. Go to https://shop.theanimalrescuesite.com/store/item.do?itemId=31585&siteId=310&sourceId=1224&sourceClass=Category&index=23 to check them out. By purchasing these coasters, you’re not only getting a great gift for Dad, but you’re also giving a great gift to needy animals in shelters nationwide. Dad will love it because it’s cool. Mom will love it because there won’t be any more water rings on the furniture. The animals will love it because they receive the care and supplies they need. Everyone wins!