My dad didn’t have any of those “World’s Best Dad” or “Number One Dad” coffee mugs.

Of course, I had never given him one, and even if I had, I’m not sure he would have used it.

He wasn’t one for sentimental stuff. And he wasn’t the world’s best dad.

Neither am I.

Not sure who is, but there are some good role models out there. Unfortunately, there are too many bad role models. It’s a lot easier to be a biological “dad” than a real father, isn’t it?

My dad had kind of a rough childhood, and I don’t think the whole “taking responsibility” thing fully took root in his generation.

I never held it against him. Just accepted it for what it was as I grew older – and worked to improve my own approach. It basically provided me incentive to do better, to keep trying to reach beyond my own limitations and patterns.

We all face trials and tribulations as men, as husbands, as fathers. At times it would have been easier to just hide, to ignore the obvious, become a part-time dad in name only (at least it appears that way on the surface, but it always comes back to bite you).

Too many guys come up with too many excuses to not be there, to just ignore their responsibilities.

So I applaud all the dads out there, the ones who are sticking through the thick and thin and resolving to accept their duties and embrace fatherhood.

Happy Father’s Day to those guys, especially!

* * *

If I ever make it into my 90s, I want to be just like Roy Kinsey.

Talk about a role model – the guys has done a ton of stuff for Fountain Hills, especially when it comes to our McDowell Mountain Preserve, trail system and more.

I have no doubt the guy could still kick my butt out on the hiking trail.

One of Roy’s legacies is that he also is responsible for getting so many other citizens involved with building and maintaining the trails and Preserve out here.

So it was nice to see Rick Melendez, a former Town Councilman, take a few moments at last week’s council meeting to recognize Roy for his accomplishments.

Rick, an honorary consult representing the country of El Salvador, had Roy named an honorary citizen of that country, which happens to be the home of one of our Sister Cities, Ataco.

“Felicades” to you, Roy, and many more years of taking vacations, volunteering and maintaining our trail system. Our town is much better off because of guys like Roy.

* * *

Speaking of Sister Cities, I’ve had the privilege of visiting all three of Fountain Hills’ current Sister Cities.

Sounds like we could have a fourth, if the paperwork and everything else is approved for Zamosc, Poland.

I just renewed by passport, so I’m down for a road trip news assignment across the big pond. Someone has to accept the rough responsibility of covering the signing of documents in Poland.

My press pass is ready to go!