New Gift Ideas For Fathers - Brief Article

Ebony, June, 2001

FATHER'S Day is approaching, and for strong Black men who have sacrificed and made a tremendous effort to do their best, and be the best, for their families--it's recognition time. To make this Father's Day memorable, give dad a gift that is useful and speaks volumes about his personality. For example, the laid-back dad craves convenience and comfort.

Debonair dads would love to have a mini-theater at home. The Cambridge SoundWorks' Newton Theater MC300 Speaker System ($1,599) boasts a P1000 subwoofer to ensure high-quality, surround sound effects.

And digital dads prefer the latest James Bond gadgets, of course. On the following pages, we feature a collection of gifts for dads that will make him feel appreciated.

Just In time for Father's Day, the Explorer by LA-Z-Boy allows dad to receive Sony Web TV, surf the Internet and send e-mail. The recliner costs $1,049 (fabric) and $1,299 (leather). The HP Jornada 525 Color Pocket PC allows the digital dad to optimize his time by providing easy and convenient access to e-mail, calendar and contacts plus a full suite of Microsoft Pocket PC applications. It retails for $359. One of the most sought-after adult toys on the market is the Sony Play-Station 2. This computer entertainment system combines games, music and movies with its DVD-video playback capability ($299).

For the on-the-go dad, Coach has a collection of fine leather goods, including its signature briefcase ($350), cell phone case ($68) and hand-held computer case ($78). The Timex Internet Messenger receives e-mail, the latest news, sports headlines and weather updates. The watch also acts as a pager and can automatically set and maintain accurate time, date and time zone changes ($99).

The Debonair dad's taste is impeccable, and for him, traditional Father's Day gifts will never go out of style. This year, tie designers have unleashed some funky (yet tasteful), new styles for the fashionable father. Distinctive silk ties, including Chanel, allow dads to exhibit their creative side in conjunction with their corporate attire.

The pocket camera turns the HP 520/540 Series Pocket PC into a simple, point-and-shoot digital camera that allows dad to conveniently capture, manage and share clear, crisp photos when he's on the go ($350). Other exciting gifts for digital dads include the Sonic Impact Technologies' portable SI-5 flat panel digital surround sound speakers, which are compatible with CD players, personal juke boxes, and portable DVD players ($89.99). The Intel Pocket Concert Audio Player provides up to four hours of music on the PC, home stereo, or in the car. It also fits neatly into a briefcase or coat pocket and retails for $299.

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