Today fathers everywhere are receiving the royal treatment – cards, gifts and even the title "King for the Day."

While mothers usually receive endless affection and attention from their children – how many times have you seen an athlete look into the camera and mouth the words, "Hi, Mom!" – that doesn't mean fathers are loved any less.

The Star recently sponsored a Father of the Year contest. Readers submitted essays citing why their father should receive the honor. A first, second and third place winner was chosen from among the submissions, and all the essays were included in a special edition published in Wednesday's paper.

So as fathers everywhere endure burnt toast and breakfast in bed, their favorite dish for dinner and yet another beautifully wrapped shirt, tie or pair of socks, let us remember the true meaning of Father's Day: A day of commemoration and celebration for the sacrifices of fathers and the roles they have played in shaping our lives.



History



Sonora Dodd of Washington first had the idea of a "father's day." She thought of the idea for while listening to a Mother's Day sermon in 1909.

Dodd wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. Smart, who was a Civil War veteran, was widowed when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. Smart was left to raise the newborn and his other five children by himself on a rural farm in Eastern Washington state.

After Dodd became an adult, she realized the selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Dodd's father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father's Day celebration in Spokane, Wash., on the 19th of June, 1910.

In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national Father's Day. Then in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the third Sunday of June as Father's Day. President Richard Nixon signed the law which finally made it permanent in 1972.



No. 1 dads



Over the years, Father's Day has become a day to not only honor your father, but all men who act as a father figure. Stepfathers, uncles, grandfathers, and adult male friends are all honored on Father's Day.

Such is the case of Eli Alexander, who wears two hats in the life of Antoinette Alexander – father and grandfather.

"I was adopted by my grandparents when I was 6 months old," said Antoinette, who said she did not realize the bond she shared with her grandfather until she was older.

"Most children are fearful toward their fathers/grandfathers when they are younger. But as I got older and he retired from work, we really got to know each other."

It was while in college that she began to appreciate the values he instilled in her.

"He taught me how to always stand by your morals and not let anyone change you," she said. "He stressed the importance of doing your school work and excelling at everything you do."

Alexander said her father is not the traditional "educated man," but he provided everything for his family.

"As the middle child of 12 siblings, my grandfather learned at an early age to be self sufficient," she said. "As he grew older, he was able to channel his selflessness toward his wife, family and church."

She expressed great appreciation to her grandfather for being a visible presence in her life.

"His altruistic character brought much encouragement to recitals, step shows and Girl Scouts," she said. "He has given me much support that I will forever be indebted to him. My grandfather is the epitome of what every father should be and what every man should respect."

A recent college graduate, Alexander said her grandfather has prepared her for her stage in life.

"He has given me much encouragement in pursuing my dreams of going to law school," she said. "I really have to give him a lot of credit for supporting me in my career aspirations."

Brianna Adkins also believes her father, Landry, represents the best in fathers.

"My dad beats every father out there," said Adkins. "Not only is he wise, but he is also intelligent: the kind who always knows the answers to everything – from calculus homework to life questions ... My dad can cheer me up on my bad days and knows how to cook the best chicken salad. He even knows how to text message."

The daughter of an avid Mississippi State University fan, Adkins said her father, "bleeds maroon."

" ... He definitely knows how to ring a cowbell," she said, adding that "My dad may not be Tiger Woods, but his favorite hobby is golf."

But what truly makes her father No. 1 is his commitment to fatherhood.

"Being a father has always been his first priority," she said. "He has attended every dance recital (13 total), dance competition (way too many to count), award ceremony, art show, cross-country meet, church recognition, swim meet, school function and his favorite, Ole Miss College Day. And he does it willingly, just for me."

When asked if she is "Daddy's little girl," Adkins giggles, then proudly answers, "I'm the only one; I'm much loved. He is my biggest fan and I can always count on him to be the first in line to buy front row tickets to see me in any event."

Her father wears many hats: mentor, comforter and protector.

" ... He is my should to cry on, and my watch dog," she said. "My dad is my hero, my knight in shining armor and, currently the only love of my life."

Adkins credits much of her success to her father.

"He never lets me down and is always encouraging me to strive for my best. I am so fortunate to have such a strong supporter in my life ... By far, my dad is the best."

Words that are music to any father's ears – and even better than "Hi Mom."