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One staffer's devotion to Dad is well-documented. Photo: Sara Bonisteel.

Nationwide, Dads are opening boxes and saying, "Another tie ... great!"

Well, not that these propensities are limited to those with a Y-chromosome, but in the hot months we Slashfood staffers have spied our fathers grilling, talking about grilling, mowing the lawn, golfing or standing about yakking.

And why not? It's Father's Day. Dad's entitled. So whip up a Pop-Tail for the Father's Day brunch (if your dad does that) or simply hand him one of these Slashfood-approved elixirs while he's doing any of the above. Top ranking in the favorite son or daughter continuum is now assured.

Kat Kinsman Dad won't mind being put to work on his special day if it means he gets a chance to man the grill. (Well OK, mine hates grilling, but s'OK. A girl can 'cue for her dad, right, ladies?) Smoked fruit -- like lemons and cherries -- brings a satisfying Scotch-like note to summery drinks like lemonade and margaritas. And hey, so long as you and/or he are spending time smoking, you might as well toss a brisket or pork shoulder on the grate. It'd be a crime to waste all that wood. Try my recipe for Smoked Lemonade.

Rachel Been Billy Been is a simple drinker and a gardener, and usually goes for one of two drinking options -- a cold Foster's or a easy mixture of Scotch and soda. He always lets the ice melt a little too much, which seems to take the edge off of the beverage and the sight of his dying asparagus plants.