When is Father's Day 2014? Unique gift ideas for dad

 (Photo: Helene Souza)

Father's Day 2014 is this Sunday, June 15. Avoid buying dads, granddads, godfathers, and others father figures the usual gifts of neckties and socks, but think about some items they may actually want.

It may be hard to shop for the father in your life if there aren't obvious needs, or if a specific gift hasn't been requested. Here are some gift ideas and online bargains to get the creative juices flowing.

Tech gadgets are a great idea for a lot of men, and e-readers are an unintimidating choice. Kindle Fire HDX tablets start at $199 on Amazon.com for 16 GB of storage and Wi-Fi connectivity. If your dad likes to read at home, and doesn't do much traveling, this could be an ideal gift. Verizon or AT&T connectivity and 64 GB of storage can run up to $379. Kindle Fire HD's are down to $119 on the site.

The digital revolution has caused a huge drop in the price of Blu-ray players. If the man in your life still purchases or rents DVDs, you can give the perfect gift and save a bundle with Samsung, Sony, and LG players running for little as $65 at Walmart, Target, Amazon, and other retailers.

Daddy & Co. offers a variety of gifts for expectant, new, expert, and active dads, and many items are branded "Daddy" or "I'm the daddy." They have the Daddy Diaper pack, a masculine take on the typical diaper bag, matching tees for tots and dad, new dad survival guides, and much more. The site also offers free shopping on U.S. orders over $25.

Fashion-forward and health conscious men may like the Jawbone Up fitness bracelet, which comes in a variety of colors. The bracelet monitors sleep patterns, caloric intake, and reminds you to stay active. The bands can also be customized with precious stones to take them from sporty accessory to fashionable bracelet.

News
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic
US criticises prosecution of pro-life campaigner over silent prayer near abortion clinic

The US State Department has said it is closely monitoring the prosecution of a Christian woman who prayed silently in an abortion clinic buffer zone. 

Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures
Over £900,000 awarded to help UK churches stay open amid growing funding pressures

Hundreds of churches across the UK are receiving vital financial support to remain open and safe, as rising repair costs and shrinking funding streams place historic buildings under increasing strain.

How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year
How to make the most of the quiet period between Christmas and New Year

Make the most of these last days of the year to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with God.

US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians
US carries out strikes on Islamic State in Nigeria over violence against Christians

The US military has conducted airstrikes against Islamic State (IS) militants in Nigeria over the violent "targeting" of Christians.