The day of the dad

Last-minute shopping is the norm on Father’s Day

Local fathers were getting excited about Father’s Day last week, but said that sometimes being a parent is a joy in itself.
“As a daddy, I consider every day to be Father’s Day,” said Robert Quinones of North Bergen. “There is no greater present than the gift of time spent with my children. [It’s] the countless precious opportunities to share the wonders of the world, life’s trials and tribulations, and the beauty of a simple moment of shared laughter. There is no responsibility and nothing I have ever done that has been more of a joy or reward than being a father to my children.”

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“Any man can be a father…it takes a special man to be a daddy.” – Robert Quinones
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Agustin Gonzales of West New York agreed. “It’s pretty much just a day where us fathers get acknowledged and separated from all the baby daddies and deadbeats,” he said. “A day that reminds me why I’m working so hard in school and in life, so that I can be successful and able to provide for my daughter as she grows older.”
Gerson Arriaza of West New York said it is important to remember his father.
“To me Father’s Day is not just one day. It is every day for me,” he said. “It’s a special day where we get to honor our fathers for whom they are. We as sons and daughters might agree with certain things they do or don’t do, but they do what they do because deep inside them they care for us. I love my father for who he is and for everything he has done for me.”
“Father’s Day for me is continuing and taking care of our children and making life better for the next generation,” said Ronald Steve Hernandez of Jersey City.

In the stores

Local stores noticed that sales are more aggressive before Mother’s Day than before Father’s Day, and that some people shop last-minute for their fathers.
“Rated-mature sports games and game consoles are the top items bought on Father’s Day,” said Stanley Oviedo of Union City Game Stop, last week. “Some parents come with strollers and the wives will surprise their husband with an on-the-spot gift purchase.”
Petland Store Manager Nick Matos of Union City said fish tanks are a hot item.
“People usually buy salt water set up, fresh water set up, sometime reptiles, but not many birds or small animals that is usually for kids,” he said.
Flowers are not as popular on Father’s Day, but Edible Arrangements in West New York has been making push. “Our Father’s day pre-orders are only in the 30s in contrast to 600 pre-orders normally received on Mother’s Day,” said Andres Alzate.
Modell’s Store Manager Darwin Tejeda said, “Polo shirts, basketball gear, sandals, and sports caps are top sellers on Father’s Day.”
Santo Sanabria may be reached at SSanabria@hudsonreporter.com.

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