June 11, 2014 THE VILLADOM TIMES I & II • Page 9 Ideas for those searching for great Father’s Day gifts Father’s Day is right around the corner and that means many children, spouses, and other family mem- bers are working to locate the perfect gifts for the men in their lives. If you think carefully about gift ideas, there is bound to be something that will be a perfect fit. If Dad follows a particular team or sport, gifts inspired by his love of a favorite team are a surefire bet for success. Team jerseys, game memorabilia, tickets to the next at-home game, or an expanded satellite dish or cable TV sports programming package are some gift ideas that will coordinate with a sports theme. Some dads may be content to simply hit the links or spend a few hours at the batting cages. Personalized gifts can show that special man in your life that you care about him in a special way. Instead of a run-of-the-mill item pulled off a store shelf, a personal- ized gift can feature a name, date, or sentiment right on the gift. Think about giving Dad a personalized plaque that designates his work area in the garage or a photo frame engraved with a special message or his name. An embroidered bathrobe or a golf bag embroidered with his initials may also be a special treat. “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Take advantage of these words of wisdom by giving your Dad food or culinary-themed items. Dad may be an amateur chef and will enjoy a cookbook by his favorite Food Network (TM) personality. If he has a restaurant he insists on going to all the time, a gift card to said res- taurant is guaranteed to be a hit. If Dad appreciates not only the taste, but also the culture of food, plan a tour of food shops in the area or go on a wine-and cheese- tasting adventure. Some dads get revved up about automotive gifts, especially if they spend the weekends pampering their prized cars or trucks. If Dad tends to have a wrench in hand and head under the hood, treat him to some new supplies for his automotive pursuits. Quality car waxes and upholstery cleaners are always in demand. Or give him a gift certificate to his favorite hand-wash, auto- detailing center. Gas station gift cards or a new ratchet set are other good auto gift ideas. Some dads get excited about the latest tablets or smartphones. They may keep abreast of virus-detec- tion software or think the technological gadgets sold in those specialty magazines and mall stores are must- haves. Chances are if you spend enough time with Dad, you know just what he likes to dabble in, and you can get him an electronic device he will find invaluable. Although it may seem difficult on the surface to find a gift for Dad that he truly will enjoy and use, all it takes is a close examination of his likes to find some- thing appropriate.