Zachary Gallo
Zachary Gallo is the executive director of Food & Beverage at We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort, overseeing six restaurants, three bars, banquets, in-room dining and pool bar operations.
Dad to: Ashton, 14, and Olivia, 15.
Hometown: Dearborn Heights, Mich.
Favorite ways to spend family time in AZ: We love checking out different cities in Arizona, including Flagstaff and Sedona. We also love trying new restaurants with my two teenage foodies (not sure where they got this from?)
Your most rewarding fatherhood moment: Seeing our kids growing up to be so responsible, dedicated and passionate about what they do. They work so hard and are so very special.
Biggest challenge as a dad: There are a lot of bad influences and difficult paths teenagers can take. I think times have changed, so it starts in the home and with our faith. Teaching them how to live the right way, give back, and have respect for others is so important. You hope that when the time comes that they are faced with challenging moments, that you have guided them and prepared them for them.
A father who inspires you and why: My father-in-law, Rocky. He recently passed away, but he was such a huge inspiration to me. I hope to be even close to the amazing man and father he was. He was the kindest, most patient man I have ever known. He always saw the good in everything, and gave such pure, unconditional love to his girls.
Best piece of advice for a new dad: Enjoy every moment. Do everything in your power to be there. Your child will look for you in the audience or in the stands, so do all that is possible to be there smiling at them. Those are the precious moments that you can never get back. Also, whatever past challenges you may have had, do not let that define you. Blaze your own trail and be the best dad you can be.
Your biggest hope for your children: That they make good choices, find a path that brings them joy, and make a positive impact in this world. I know they can do it.
How are you celebrating Father’s Day? We are going out to lunch together, and then my son Ashton and I are golfing together in the afternoon twilight. I can’t think of a more perfect day.