Cool Gifts for Father's Day

COOL GIFTS

FOR FATHER'S DAY

By Judy Kleinberg

Does Dad really need another tie? More socks? Here’s a hint: Father’s Day falls on the first day of summer, June 20, so maybe it’s time to look outdoors. If you find yourself stumped by Father’s Day shopping, we have a few suggestions that include both fun and practical gifts.

Picnic Table

With outdoor dining more popular than ever, it may be time to replace that splintery old workhorse picnic table. If clambering over an attached bench seat is awkward,

perhaps separate benches or chair seats might be more practical – and offer a more sophisticated look. (Some are so attractive, they can easily double as indoor furniture.) Rectangular tables are traditional, but round or octagonal sets might be a better fit in his patio. And if he prefers to tuck away the table between seasons, consider one of the terrific fold-up models.

Patio Heater

When sitting under the stars on chilly nights, a patio heater can turn cold to cozy. Today’s home models, both electric and gas, come in many styles, some as sleek as garden sculptures. There are wall-mount, tabletop and torchère models, as well as firepit tables that could give the patio a whole new look.

Generator

We won’t pretend there’s anything exciting about generators. But when the power goes out, the cell phone needs charging and the fridge starts defrosting; that “rainy-day” generator will make Dad look like a hero.

Walkie-Talkie

No matter what Dad enjoys, from hunting and fishing to weather-tracking or reading in a hammock, he is certain to get a kick out of a walkie-talkie. From the simplest short-range backyard models to highly sophisticated long-range communication devices, these two-way radios vary in weight, size, range and frequency, as well as display options.

Sharpener

If you’ve ever sawed hopelessly at a tomato, only to have it squirt all over the kitchen counter, you know the value of a sharp knife. Whatever the task, sharp tools make life easier and more enjoyable. Sharpeners are available in a range of styles, from handheld whetstones and ceramic rods to high-tech electric devices. Some kitchen models are also suitable for scissors, and more powerful sharpeners will handle machetes, lawnmower blades and other gardening and shop tools.

Outdoor Fridge

Now that he’s all set with patio furniture and heaters, perhaps it’s time to add an outdoorrated refrigerator to his alfresco entertaining options. Whether freestanding or tucked into a barbecue island or cabinet, a patio fridge is not only hospitable, but also keeps guests from tracking pool water and garden soil into the house when they’re looking for a sip or a snack.

Grill Upgrade

If new-grill-for-Father’s-Day sounds like a cliche, that’s no reason to strike it from your list of gifts for Dad. If he enjoys grilling, it may be time for an upgrade. Fueled by gas, charcoal or pellets, today’s grills come in a variety of styles. There are even tabletop models that will work indoors! With the growing popularity of outdoor kitchens, grills with more bells and whistles have become sleek stainless

appliances that offer everything except a chef’s hat.

No matter what gift you choose for Dad or how you celebrate Father’s Day, a handmade card or poem – and plenty of selfies – will make it even more memorable.