Where are you originally from and how long have you been in the area?
Born in Lebanon, adopted and came to the USA at age 5 (1956)
Children and their ages?
Austin, 45 and Merrilee, 44 You can find Merrilee at Ganims daily and Austin running his Landscaping company : Austin Ganim Landscaping and Design.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I enjoy baking! Breads, pies, cakes and more!
One thing you wish someone would have told you about being a Dad?
Beware!
Favorite local things to do in Fairfield?
Go out to local restaurants and support local
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Fairfield?
Kids grew up in Easton but enjoyed being out in the woods and enjoying nature
Best dad hack that makes your life easier?
Have a daughter, they help you with everything! Who do you think helped with the interview 🙂
Ganims Nursery, when did you open in Fairfield and why?
We started the business in 1968 and we relocated to Fairfield from Bridgeport!
When did your radio show start and can you tell us about it?
I started the radio show about 15 years ago on WICC600 AM to share my knowledge about gardening. Right now, my show is every Sunday 8am-9am where anyone can call in with gardening questions or listen in for tips and good advice. You can also catch the podcast on our website if its missed live!
What is the best part about owning a garden center?
The best part of owning a garden center sharing my knowledge and love of gardening with all, including my family. My backyard isnt much as I currently live in a Condo but my son and daughter’s yards are an adventure and I enjoy going to their houses and helping with the vegetables gardens.
What does your garden/backyard look like?
The best part of owning a garden center sharing my knowledge and love of gardening with all, including my family. My backyard isn’t much as I currently live in a Condo but my son and daughter’s yards are an adventure and I enjoy going to their houses and helping with the vegetables gardens.
What do you love about your job? Challenges you face?
I love the people you meet and the relationships you make. The challenges I face are a changing economy, buying habits and customer needs.
Best advice for dads who experience the inevitable guilt handling a career and helping support a family?
Make the time to spend with your children- they grow up too fast!
Who has most influenced you to be the father that you are today?
My Father
What advice would you share with a new dad or other dads?
Be patient and understanding as these times have changed since the days when we grew up. We didnt have cell phones, internet, and other distractions. We grew up in the backyard, drinking out of water hoses, digging in the dirt, riding around town – then as we got older, we had jobs after school and other commitments- times are different, life is different. Try to keep things simple and fun! Enjoy your family!Do you have a favorite family friendly restaurant?
We love supporting local, what are some of yours…
Dinner with Family?
Molto
Date night?
GG’s pizza, Milford
What is your go-to activity for your family?
Making dinner with the grandkids
For yourself?
Traveling
