Let dad re-create himself this weekend

Martin Cizmar, Tribune

June 12, 2008 - 4:28PM

If you’re spending Sunday in the Santan area there’s plenty to do with dad. Whether your pops wants to be a cowboy, a biker or the kind of guy who just likes to relax, you’ll find a lot to keep him busy this weekend.

Team Arizona Motorcyclist Training Center

POPPA WHEELIE: Has dad always wanted to be a biker? With gas prices soaring, riding a motorcycle has never been more cost-effective, says Ron Ariel, owner of TEAM Arizona Motorcyclist Training Center in Gilbert. Problem is, most novices have no idea how to ride, which is why Ariel suggests his company’s Intro to Motorcycling class. “Guys spend $200 on a nice pair of gloves or something else that fits the look of the lifestyle,” he says. “Even our most expensive course is $285, and that can really save someone’s life.” A gift certificate for the four-hour introductory course, which includes some riding, runs $85.

>> Team Arizona, 36 N. William Dillard Drive, Gilbert. (480) 998-9888 or motorcycletraining.com.

Mallin cast aluminum Salisbury chair, Today's Patio, SanTan Village

DAD'S CHAIR: Does dad like to relax on the porch after a long day of working or fishing? Take a look at this Mallin cast aluminum Salisbury chair, from Today’s Patio in SanTan Village. At $1,239 it’s not cheap, but it does recline and swivel, while being stylish enough to keep mom happy. If this chair doesn’t catch your eye, the store has 12,000 square feet of patio furniture.

>> Today’s Patio, 2244 E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert. (480) 289-6400 or todayspatio.com.

COWBOY SHOW: If your father has always had a soft spot for Western movies, or has an interest in the cowboy life, you might want to drop by Rockin’ R Ranch in Mesa. The Wild West town has gold panning, shops, a stage show, horse-drawn wagon rides and an all-dad-can-eat barbecue beef or chicken dinner with all the trimmings.

Rockin' R Ranch, gold panning, shops, stage show, Arizona Gunfighters, OK Corral

On Saturday, to celebrate Father’s Day, the Arizona Gunfighters will re-create the historic gunfight at the OK Corral after the musical show. Dinner is at 5:30 p.m. with other festivities starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for dinner and entertainment are $27 for adults, $17 for children.

>> Rockin’ R Ranch, 6136 E. Baseline Road, Mesa. (480) 832-1539 or rockinr.net.