Southern Tier residents show their appreciation for dads on Father's Day
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF: KATIE MCCONVILLE, AMIR TAZI, AND ETIENNE EXANTUS)
SOUTHERN TIER, N.Y. (WENY) -- Sunday was Father's Day and people across the Southern Tier shared why they're grateful for their dad.
"I love you Daddy and I miss you a lot," said Katie McConville.
McConville said her dad lives in Florida and she misses him. She hopes he knows how much he means to her.
"My dad is the best, he's the most supportive person in my life. He's always there when I need him, and even when I don't need him," said McConville.
David Guayasamin said he was lucky to have two father figures. He also said his biological dad raised him, and his 'pops' helped raise him when he was in the later parts of his life.
"I was fortunate to have both men in my life to become more or less the complete husband, father, and manager I am today," said David Guayasamin.
Amir Tazi said he and his dad have been best friends since he was little. Tazi said he wouldn't be the man he is today if it weren't for his dad.
"He believed in my imagination. He's been the first person to allow me to really believe in my imagination and what I really can do," said Tazi.
Etienne Exantus says he's always looked up to his dad as a role model. He added, "My dad’s always been there for me by pushing me to do better in school. He came to this country from Haiti so I always looked up to him in terms of succeeding and chasing your dreams."
Vallen Rivera said her father means a lot to her, because of the sacrifices he made.
"Thank you so much for providing for this family. You're one of the people I look up to," said Rivera. She added, "Thank you so much for all of your sacrifices for me and my sisters. It's really hard to be a parent. I appreciate you, and I love you very much."