September 2, 2024 • 49 mins
What does it take to embody the American dream? Join us for an inspiring chat with Gabriel Papadopoulos, a dedicated community leader and prime candidate for Pasco County Commissioner. You'll hear Gabriel's extraordinary journey from his roots on the Greek island of Cyprus, through his humorous adaptation to life in Tennessee, and finally to his impactful role in Pasco County, Florida. We explore his academic achievements at Lee University and St. Leo University, and his relentless dedication to family and community service.
Gabriel's deep-rooted connection to Pasco County shines through as he shares stories about his family's experiences with war, his own military service, and the founding of New Horizons Church. Learn how his faith and perseverance have guided him in supporting veterans, seniors, and neighbors. From community safety to the challenges faced by first responders and the need for better resources in rapidly growing areas, Gabriel offers insightful perspectives on how to strengthen community ties.
But Gabriel’s story isn’t all about challenges and achievements; it's also about his personal life and passions. Get to know the man behind the campaign through a fun rapid-fire game where he reveals his love for dancing and singing, his admiration for Tim Tebow, and his ideal Greek meal date. Discover why Gabriel’s commitment to public service, family values, and community growth makes him a compelling candidate for County Commissioner. Tune in and be inspired by a leader who truly embodies the spirit of service and dedication.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
3, 2, 1.
Welcome back to another episodeof the let's Get Comfy podcast,
where we empower listeners withthe knowledge and resources so
they can age comfortably.
Florida's number one healthcareentertainment station where we
bring you comfort, peace, joy,love, but most of all,
(00:25):
comfortability.
I'm your host, norman Harris,sole proprietor and owner of
Comfort Measures Consulting.
Today we have a wonderful guestwith us who embodies the modern
American dream of Greek descent, he arrived here in the US in
1982 to seize the opportunitiesof America.
(00:49):
He earned a bachelor's degreein communication from Lee
University and a master's ofbusiness administration from St
Leo University, my alma mater aswell.
A devoted family man with a wifeand five children, and ordained
minister, a founder and seniorpastor of New Horizons Church.
(01:10):
A military man Cypress military, his community spirit led him
to establish organization likeleading feeding Pascoe elderly,
empowering Pascoe's veteran,uplifting neighbors.
Dedicated 31 years to PascoeCounty government, rising to the
(01:32):
role of community servicedirector where he oversaw
veteran services, human servicesand senior services divisions.
A resident of Pasco County forover 35 years, he continued his
community tirelessly, ensuringthat every community citizen has
the opportunity to achievetheir own American dream.
(01:55):
The prime candidate for PascoCounty Commissioner, known by
the mantra Papa for PascoGabriel Papadopoulos.
Welcome to the show, sir.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
Oh, it's a pleasure to be with you.
Norman what a great opportunityto be with you today.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Thank you very much, I'm so glad to have this
opportunity, so glad to havethis opportunity.
So I like to start out from anintroductory standpoint of just
understanding you and yourjourney here, your dedication to
the community.
But I want to go back to yourorigins because I find it very
(02:33):
interesting and I'm sure ourcoffee listeners will as well if
you could just describe justyour speak to us regarding your
Greek descent and how youtransitioned here to America.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
So obviously, I was born in Cyprus.
It's a Greek island, anindependent island that is part
of the European common market.
Today it's the second largestisland after Sicily in the
Mediterranean.
So I grew there, I grew upthere and then I transitioned to
(03:05):
the US in 1982, in Tennessee,out of all places, tennessee,
yeah, a beautiful place,tennessee.
And I remember, in fact, afterI was in Tennessee for a little
while, I was traveling to NewYork and the taxi driver asked
me where are you from?
He said I said Tennessee.
(03:26):
And then he said well, that'swhy you have got that wonderful
southern accent.
So, anyway, tennessee.
And later on again, I was inthe Washington DC area.
The same remark was made andthey thought I had a southern
accent.
I guess it was a Greek southernaccent.
Obviously, I speak the Greekand I write the Greek better
than you came up with your ownsort of accent.
(03:47):
Yes, so I went to school,obviously here.
I went to Lee University inTennessee.
That's where I have gotten myundergraduate degree in
communication and later on, onceI transitioned to Florida in
1986, later on I have gotten myMaster's in Business
(04:07):
Administration raising familyand the kids here and I started
living in Dade City actually,and from there, gradually I
transitioned from Dade City toWesley Chapel, san Antonio, all
the way to New Porichie now,port San Antonio, all the way to
New Porichie now, and that'swhere I have been serving for
(04:28):
most of the 35 plus yearsserving the entire county
actually.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
So you touch almost every community in Pasco County.
Speaker 2 (04:36):
Yes, sir, there is no corner of Pasco County that I'm
not familiar with Right right.
Including Triple Ecucci.
What?
Speaker 1 (04:44):
Triple Ecucci.
What, tripoli, what?
Speaker 2 (04:47):
Yeah, it's just north of Dade City.
Yes, including Tripoli, Coochie, oh man.
Speaker 1 (04:51):
But I have to ask you though.
So you stayed in Tennessee Now,did you enjoy the barbecue?
There Was barbecue moreprominent up there during that
time.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
Well, barbecue was always good in Tennessee, yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:04):
Compare it to Pascoe.
How would you compare it?
Who wins?
Speaker 2 (05:08):
I'll say they're pretty equal, Norman Go on.
I'll say they're pretty equal,maybe slightly Tennessee wins,
tennessee wins, maybe slightlywins.
Speaker 1 (05:19):
So we have honesty.
You see what he's displayingalready.
Honesty, right, yeah, honesty,you see he was he's displaying
already honesty, right, yeah.
So uh, just want to talk aboutthis transition from at a, from
a.
Uh, was it childhood when youmoved here to the us, or was it
no?
Speaker 2 (05:33):
actually, I was an adult already, even though I
leave most of my life here too.
I was about 20 when I came.
Oh, I was 20, yes, and so, um,this is home for me.
Most of my life have been inFlorida, and I love Pasco County
.
I think Pasco is one of thegreatest counties in the nation.
Speaker 1 (05:54):
There we go, there we go.
Actually, one of the mostfastest-growing counties rated.
I want to say what in 2023?
Speaker 2 (06:02):
Yes, it's one of the fastest growing counties, not
only among the 60, one of thefastest growing among the six to
seven counties in the state offlorida, but one of the fastest
in the nation right, right, okay.
Speaker 1 (06:13):
So, um, growing up, uh, just as a youth.
Who would you say is the mostinfluential person in your life
and why?
Speaker 2 (06:20):
well I I say my own father was very influential in
my life and we have gone throughsome challenges growing up too.
I remember I was about 12 yearsof age when we had a war there.
It was Turkey was invading totake part of this beautiful
island and I remember at thattime I was literally on my belly
(06:46):
when the bullets and the bombswere hitting the region there.
So it was an experience for meand of course then, after that,
of course, I served in themilitary for a couple of years.
So that was truly an experiencetoo, and that was a unique
season of my life because I wascamping for two years.
(07:08):
What I was camping for twoyears?
Speaker 1 (07:10):
no AC Like in the jungle or like.
Speaker 2 (07:13):
Well, it was out.
Well, you can call it thejungle, I guess.
Yeah, no, AC.
No, it was out and about in thecountry, I guess, because we
were on a stage of war at thetime and you had an outhouse
where you went to the bathroom,but in order to take a shower
you have to take some wood andwarm it up.
(07:33):
So we are always ready to facethe enemy.
Speaker 1 (07:39):
Right, so you know about real, true trials and
tribulations?
Oh yes, sir.
Your hard time.
Yeah, yeah, I couldn't imaginebeing there doing that.
So thank you for your serviceand that shows your commitment
to your country as well, youknow.
So if you just during thetransition to the US and so what
(08:01):
year did you move actually toFlorida it was 1986.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
1986.
Okay, so that's 1986.
All right.
Speaker 1 (08:08):
So now I do understand, as I did your
introduction and just myresearch on you, that you're
actually a minister as well.
So when did that begin yourcommitment and dedication to
spirituality?
Speaker 2 (08:21):
Well, actually, I have always been involved in the
ministry, while I was engagedin the community and working for
county government, andeventually it was later on, in
2011, where, officially, Istarted pastoring New Horizons
(08:41):
Church.
New Horizons Church started.
We started in a home and wecontinued to grow.
From there we transitioned toan association it was like a
clubhouse civic association andthen from there we to a
storefront, and there we are ona beautiful campus now of about
five acres.
We purchased another churchbuilding and we have an
(09:03):
additional building that isseated on the premises.
So the infrastructure and thefoundation is there as we
continue to grow and I continueto pastor and minister while I
was with county government aswell too.
So, by the grace of God, apioneer of the church and now
we're growing and so we're verymuch engaged in the community,
(09:24):
helping families, helping ourveterans and helping those in
need.
Speaker 1 (09:30):
Right, right, right.
So you were there from theground up with New Horizons.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Yes, sir, we started from scratch actually.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
Yeah, Wow, wow.
Take me back to memories as akid Now.
At that time I was younger, soyou did it more, you know as an
adult, but, um, just thinkingwith my parents we had we was at
a storefront going to churchand I used to be embarrassed
yeah, I didn't want to invitenobody to church.
We go to a little store,convenience store, so but I
(09:56):
didn't as a kid, you know, asyou, yeah you don't understand
like the you know connection andjust the development of just
growing things up from theground up.
I went through that experience,but probably with a different
mentality at the time.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
I learned one thing, norman A big shot is a small
shot.
Who kept shooting?
No matter what your face and nomatter what your experiences
are, you stay steadfast on thepath.
That's the way you come to theend, victorious I'm stealing
that from me a big shot.
How you say it again, a bigshot is a small shot.
(10:34):
Who kept shooting small?
Speaker 1 (10:36):
shot.
So you never stop, you neverstop never stop.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
You continue to endure.
Yes, because good things don'tcome overnight.
Speaker 1 (10:43):
Right.
So I want the listeners here toalso just be able to relate to
you.
I want them to understand yourfamily life and how you're
dedicated to your family andjust family dynamics.
So if you just expand on yourimmediate family wife and kids-
so my wife obviously has beenwith me.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
We have, I know we have five children in the bar.
We have eight total and, uh,some are in new york.
The youngest is 18 now.
She's just now finishing highschool, so it's, uh, it's been a
journey to her.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
Yeah, it's been a journey To her.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Yeah, it's been a journey raising the children,
but they're all smart andthey're all very much driven.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Right.
Speaker 2 (11:29):
And they're spiritual kids.
They love the Lord as well too,and they serve in their
communities.
Speaker 1 (11:35):
There you go.
Well, that's going to be myquestion.
Which one of you think willfollow more, so closer in your
path, you think?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
Probably all of them to some degree, but probably the
oldest one probably will followmore of my path, but I think
all of them to some degree, allof them that are involved in the
community.
And we're proud parents of oneof our children who is in the
Air Force, who is serving as anofficer there, thank you.
(12:03):
So she's serving therefaithfully, and the rest of the
kids are serving in variouscapacities, anywhere from public
relations to technology tobeing in insurance management.
So they're all multi-talentedkids, let's put it that way.
Speaker 1 (12:25):
Good, good, good.
That's commendable to you.
So, as a father leader, you'rea leader in the church.
You're a leader in yourcommunity, leader of your
household.
What are some of the principlesthat you instill in your home?
Speaker 2 (12:41):
Well, the very first one is put God first.
In God we trust, and that's howthis nation started.
And you mentioned ofmid-transition into the US.
I think that's what makes mewho I am, because this is the
land of the brave and the landof the free, but that goes back
(13:01):
to a cornerstone in God withtrust.
So the Lord is first, and theneverything else falls under that
category, such as obviouslyyour family and, of course,
obviously everything that comesright under that, such as your
ministry and your engagement inthe community.
Speaker 1 (13:19):
My pastor would say if you put your life in order
how god decided it to be godfirst your family.
You know.
Marriage, yeah, that's, that'sthe order that is designed, you
know, and things will fall intoplace.
So, that being said, you know,um, you're the pillar of your
family.
You have your wonderful wifehere today with you as well,
(13:41):
supporting when I first saw,first saw you Guess who I saw
you with.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Yes, my wife.
Speaker 1 (13:46):
Yep, you better have.
Speaker 2 (13:47):
She's with me anywhere I go.
She's glued next to me.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
There we go, for a reason, right?
So how did you all meet?
Speaker 2 (13:55):
We met at the church.
Actually, there you go.
Yes, sir, that's the betterplace to find a spouse.
I wouldn't search for a spouseanywhere else.
I think that's the better place.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Yes, Right, right and the five children later, right.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Yeah so that's good.
Five and three later.
Yeah, got it Combined yeah,combined.
Speaker 1 (14:16):
So what created that bond and commitment?
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Well, I think the bond and commitment between both
of us was the cornerstone thatI share with you was I trust in
the lord and that's how we havebeen united together and we're
both partners and serving in thecommunity and also serving in
the ministry too.
We're very much engagedtogether got it.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Yes, sir, yes, uh, and I did see you at the lions
group, my first meeting there,and that shows you a game that
you were presenting Right.
Speaker 2 (14:48):
Yeah, that's right.
Speaker 1 (14:50):
Bahamas breeze right.
Yeah, yes, so so what was yourfirst job here?
I First job ever here in PascoCounty.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
So I came to Pasco County and transitioned smoothly
.
Actually, I remember, you knowI was staying with good friends
and I remember the gentlemanspoke life into my life.
He said you're going to besuccessful.
He said you're going to besuccessful and he was driving
around to take me to find a jobduring that time.
(15:17):
And lo and behold, eventuallymy very first job.
It was working with juveniledelinquents as a counselor.
So I've done that.
It was a pretty interestingjourney that I went through that
.
I did it for a short season andI believe we touched the lives
of some of the youngergeneration at that time to steer
(15:39):
them into the right direction.
That was my very first job.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
Yes, your first job.
Wow, that sounds like achallenge, honestly, to me.
Yeah, yeah, I don't know if Iwant that job.
Yeah, so if you describe justyour feeling and your dedication
to law enforcement, firstresponders because you've always
(16:04):
served and I think thosecareers are people that really
just put their life on the lineand sacrifice.
Speaker 2 (16:13):
Absolutely.
First responders and obviouslypolice have always been very
dear to my heart because Iserved as well in the military
and I know what it is to put ona green uniform and hold a rifle
.
And, of course, I served fordecades in county government.
(16:34):
I have been a public servanttakes dedication.
I have been there, been in thetrenches, especially when we
have disastrous storms.
I work closely with firstresponders and I believe first
responders are a cornerstone ofthe success of any society and
we need to honor them.
And I was honored, privilegedactually, during my tenure with
(16:56):
county government, to have undermy oversight the Veterans
Services Division, a greatdivision that provided benefits
and services to our veteranspopulation and, believe it or
not, we have about more than oneand a half million veterans in
the state of Florida and we getabout 60,000 in beautiful Pasco
(17:18):
County as well.
Wow, about 60,000 vets in PascoCounty, wow, that's a lot.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
But that's great, that's great.
So do you see any challengesthat you think they faced in law
enforcement in regards to, youknow, maybe having the necessary
resources?
Speaker 2 (17:35):
I think this is something I have seen through my
years of serving with countygovernment and now running for
county commissioner.
Of course, digging more into itand finding out that we need
obviously more first respondersand more police forces in Pasco
(17:57):
County will grow rapidly.
Obviously, about a thousand tofifteen hundred people are
moving into the state of Floridadaily, and we get our share
here in the region about ahundred hundred and fifty people
.
So definitely we need morefirst responders in Pasco County
and I think one of thechallenges with first responders
(18:19):
is wages too.
I believe we came a long way.
We have ways to go as well too,and considering the fact that
they're in the front linefighting for us, I believe you
know they need to be compensatedwell as well.
Yes, because that determines thesuccess of any community.
(18:41):
Safety is a concern of anyonewhen they move into any region
and when it comes to medicalresponses, currently, let's say,
the average response time isabout 12 to 15 minutes, and that
is totally unacceptable.
We really need to bring thatresponse time down to 4 to 6
(19:05):
minutes will be ideal, so we cankeep people alive when we call
the fire, rescue and theambulance to show up to the
scene.
So these are some of thechallenges I with first
responders, so we need to honorthem, we need to step behind
them.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
I agree, I agree definitely with you.
Know every pasture.
Now, if you ride now 54s, yousee, you know apartment complex
now.
So you need to have the supportfor emergency services and
individuals as well.
So that is very important.
So one transition now.
Now, and let's talk health careright and now this segment.
(19:45):
Here I want to educate, butalso understand your dedication
and work.
You've done as well in thehealth care arena, so why is
this important to you?
Speaker 2 (19:56):
Well, health care is is very important because that
determines the wellness of anycommunity, and that's why we
need to pay close attention as acommunity grows and as you
begin to see the newdevelopments and the new
apartment complexes, we need toensure we have hospitals in
(20:19):
place, clinics in place and allthe physicians, support and
medical providers in place, andwhat has happened through the
years?
I think sometimes we put thecart ahead of the horse, where
we continue to build and wecontinue to develop these
(20:40):
beautiful communities that wesee, without taking into
consideration the repercussionswith the growth, because you've
got to remember, you're not onlygoing to need transportation
and expanding the roads, but atthe same time, you need to make
sure you have the right numberof, let's say, first responders,
(21:00):
fire stations.
You need to ensure you havepolice in place that's part of
wellness as well too, believe itor not and you need to make
sure you have the right numberof hospitals within a specific
mileage to accommodate thisfast-growing population.
(21:21):
Now we have more than 600,000in Pasco County and within the
next 10, 15 years, we're goingto be over a million people.
Yes, so we need to considerthese factors of wellness every
time a community grows yes, ofwellness every time a community
grows.
So we came a long ways.
We have ways to go in PascoCounty and that is going to be
(21:45):
one of my main drives as countycommissioner.
Thank you, sir, yes sir.
Speaker 1 (21:50):
So one of our confi supporters, ms Gina Fay, she
asked a question that I wantedto just pose to you as well.
She said why are caregiverwages so low?
Speaker 2 (22:04):
You know that's a good question.
I'll tell you why.
Because it's sad to say what Idug into that.
Some is because normally whathas happened through the years
that has been the profession ofminorities.
So what they have done, theyhave been paying them lower
(22:25):
wages and that needs to change.
Normally you will see Haitianpeople, you will see Latinos, I
think normally in that type ofprofession you will see African
Americans and we need to reallymake some adjustments to that to
bring their wages up.
Speaker 1 (22:43):
I agree and I always say, and I continue to say,
being a skilled nursingadministrator for a few years, I
said CNAs are the backbone tohealthcare.
Speaker 2 (22:54):
You better believe it .
Speaker 1 (22:55):
They're doing the lifting to have the most contact
with the families and thepatients as well and we get a
lot of our information asleadership right from their
documentation, fromcommunicating with them, because
they're firsthand on with thepatients and the families.
They're the reflection of theexperience right in regards to
customer service and that care.
(23:16):
But I never understood thecorrelation with the wage.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Oh, yeah, yeah, absolutely.
That's the reason why I startedmaking some research on that,
because that is theinfrastructure of any health
care.
That's the first person apatient or a client it's going
to have contact with, and thesepeople need to be compensated
(23:42):
reasonable wages as well.
Speaker 1 (23:44):
right, right so what are some policies or initiatives
that you will advocate for inregards to supporting caregivers
?
Speaker 2 (23:53):
well as a kind of Commissioner obviously is.
You are not in the post todirectly make that decision, but
this County Commissioner can dowonders though you need to work
as Commissioner.
I can work closely with thelegislation and also work
(24:16):
closely with federalrepresentatives in Washington to
bring some adjustment to thisconcern, and to me it's a major
issue because these are thefolks that determine the success
of any medical care provider orany client who is taken care of
(24:42):
at home Is the first personnormally a patient or a client
will see when they firstadmitted to any medical facility
and the last person they'regoing to see when they leave.
I mean, they're the ones whoare going to change the sheets
on the bed.
They're the ones who are goingto bathe the patient.
They're the ones who are goingto change the sheets on the bed.
(25:02):
They're the ones who are goingto bathe the patient.
They're the ones who are goingto clean the room, bring the
meal if you're in a hospital,and normally they're the last
person they're going to see whenthey leave.
So first and last impressionand these are the angels I call
them of medical care.
Speaker 1 (25:16):
Angels of medical care.
Yes, sir, yes sir, I like that.
I like that, I like that.
How will you addressdisparities in healthcare access
for social, economicindividuals' backgrounds, so
individuals that are maybe inrural areas or minorities?
I know a lot of times theresources there are available to
(25:39):
them.
And something that I've beenresearching is, you know, the
increase of the use of virtualor like telehealth and those
type of access.
Do you have any initiative forthat?
Speaker 2 (25:54):
I think telehealth is important and mainly in these
rural areas.
You're going to deal with thesenior population, which they're
going to need some assistancewith telehealth as well.
But the second step I wouldtake is mobile health care as
well.
I think having mobile units togo to the rural areas will be
(26:17):
just a good venue to accommodatesome of those patients, because
, you got to remember, many andprobably the majority of your
patients are going to be seniorsand, ironically, in pasco
county, uh, more than 30 percentof the population are over the
age of 60.
(26:45):
The age of 60, and some of themare in remote areas, especially
on the eastern portion of thecounty, when you go north of the
city, and some of the seniorsneed to have accommodations to
receive the care right.
Another method you can take, ofcourse, is transportation.
Um, some of them might be ableto go to their medical
appointments, but they're goingto need some type of paratransit
transportation to be picked upand taken to the medical
(27:06):
facility.
Pasco County government has inplace already a paratransit
system which I think we need topolish and enhance even more so
to accommodate these folks, notonly to take them to medical
appointments but also to groceryshopping and other places where
they need to go.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Yes, yes, that is so true.
That is so true for sure.
So I know you are very hands-onand active in the community.
Are there any initiatives thatyou're working on currently
that's related to health care inthe community at this time?
Speaker 2 (27:43):
well what I do.
I said what the board ofdirectors for in various
capacities and one of the boardof directors I serve as the vice
chair is is providing seniorswith a brown back meal is
through volunteer way, and andwe we attempt every effort to
(28:06):
give them a meal that isnutritionally balanced, as much
as we can, because yournutrition intake determines the
health of your physical body aswell.
Yes, and this is just somethingI currently do, also through
the ministry we're leading theministry as a lead pastor.
(28:27):
We ensure we accommodatefamilies and those who may not
have the ability to provide 100%for themselves.
At least we supplement to givethem what we have, as well as
our veterans and seniors.
So this is something that we do.
I'm a strong believer and ithas been, of course, medically
(28:52):
proven too that good nutritiondetermines also the well-being
of a person.
Speaker 1 (28:57):
Right, right.
You can't have proper healingwithout proper nutrition.
Speaker 2 (29:01):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (29:02):
Yes, sir.
So what's your long-term visionfor health care system, right
for the aging population?
Speaker 2 (29:10):
Well, being county commissioner, one of the areas I
would target is I would tapinto federal dollars through the
Older Americans Act as well too.
Now the Older Americans Act hasbeen signed by President
Johnson back in 1965, and sincethen has been tenaciously
(29:33):
providing funding to the statesand local governments to serve
their seniors in variouscapacities, one of which is care
at home of seniors, another oneis providing nutritionally
balanced meals and, of course,pilot transit transportation.
(29:54):
Because you must bear in mind,the majority of people we are
going to serve, especially astime progresses now, is going to
be the senior population.
People live longer, yes andevery.
When you look at statistically,let's say, every 60 seconds,
(30:15):
about seven people turn over theage of 65 in the US, and of
course, we have our share herein Pasco County.
Yeah, and these folks have somechallenges.
I mean it's anywhere fromtransitional housing to the
increased medical care and andas well as, of course,
(30:39):
transportation.
These are challenges ourseniors are facing, and
isolation is very critical.
That determines, again, thehealth of a person.
So we need to be tapping intosome more funding, if we can
from the feds to bring someresources down through the Older
Americans Act and, of course,an approach I took through the
(31:01):
years is public-privatepartnerships.
I think that is so vitallysignificant when you begin to
engage the community to be partof the solution.
Sometimes we expect governmentto do it all, but that's
impossible for government to doit all, norman.
So that's why you need toengage the community to be part
of the solution.
And when you look at, let's say, my track record, that's one of
(31:25):
the initiatives that I tookthrough the years, always
developing not-for-profits thatwill come alongside and work
with government.
You had mentioned earlier,let's say, feeding pascals
elderly.
That's one of thenot-for-profits that I founded
and I had a great team of peoplewho work with me and I'm glad
(31:47):
it's going stronger nowgenerates funding by engaging
the community to offset the costfor seniors in pasco County.
So engaging the community isvital tapping into the Old Door
American Sac Fund and I thinkit's important too and, of
(32:10):
course, making sure that asenior stays in their home as
long as possible.
Speaker 1 (32:19):
Aging in place.
Speaker 2 (32:20):
Yeah, absolutely.
I know we have nursing homesout there and sometimes it's
hard to say it's inevitableyou're going to have to place
someone in a nursing homefacility.
But at the end of the day aperson ages so much better,
they're so much more comfortablein their own home.
If we can keep them in theirhome, it's so much better.
(32:40):
The average nursing home careyou're looking over a hundred
thousand dollars, my goodness.
Now every year that's a hugeamount of dollars to come up
with and not every senior has ahundred thousand dollars minimum
for a nursing home facility.
So if we can keep them at homeas long as we can, that will be
even better.
(33:00):
How are we going to do that?
Providing meals, providingparatransit for them, let's say,
having qualified good healthcare providers CNAs to be there
to help out home healthcaregiver individuals.
I think that can make a bigdifference in their journey of
(33:24):
aging.
Speaker 1 (33:24):
Right, right, right, Okay, thank you.
So one of the initiatives forour Florida Healthcare
Association is really focusingon the next generation of
caregivers.
So, as you stated sort ofearlier, the population here
with aging community isincreasing.
You know greatly, you know.
(33:46):
But however, the number ofstudents are younger, Gen Z that
are going actually in a nursingfield are decreasing.
How can we sort of change thatto help improve and increase the
number of individuals that aretaking the initiative to
actually go into the field andprovide care?
Speaker 2 (34:06):
I think it's something that needs to be
instilled while a child is inschool.
We need to work closely withour district school board
Already.
There are some initiatives.
Years ago, I remember thedistrict school board had a
program used to be called thetech prep program, because not
(34:27):
every child who finishes highschool is going to go to college
.
So we need to educate them,make this type of training
accessible to them, where we cantrain on demand health care
(34:47):
providers while they're still inschool, by bringing curricula
and training on-the-job trainingwithin the last couple years of
high school.
I think that would make it aseamless transition.
You finish high school, you hadsome schooling, you took some
(35:09):
courses, but you had someon-the-job training, as you are
a graduate and you receive yourhigh school diploma, but you
know what?
At the same time, you'recertified as a home health aid
or you're certified as acertified nursing assistant, so
when they finish, they have atleast a door wide open for them
(35:34):
to start transitioning.
Because you had mentioned thatthe population increases.
You're going to have morepeople who are going to demand
these services and it's soimportant that we are proactive
instead of reactive when itcomes to those type of needs.
Speaker 1 (35:49):
Right, right, but I think I see a lot of the
challenges is just understandingand raising the awareness.
Right, you look at there's manyservices out there, such as
palliative or hospice care inthe life planning, that are
accessible to individuals butthey either have a misconception
about it or it's not reallymarketed, right, you don't see
(36:13):
advertisement for you know carein regards to hospice.
You don't see the marketing forstudents to actually actually
take that initiative to get intothe healthcare field.
You know readily available.
Right, most time you look onsocial media you don't see those
things.
You know great people want tolook at the most flashier or you
(36:33):
know sort of industries whereyou can, I guess, hit big and
get rich.
You know, but but how can webring more awareness and promote
?
You know the industry better,you know.
Speaker 2 (36:44):
I think it begins, as I said, it begins, at the high
school level.
I believe it needs to beinstilled within the minds of
students.
Listen, this is the growth,this is a demand in this
community.
We can help you, we can prepyou to get into this field.
(37:07):
Our thinking is to be regularlyannounced in high school and
make it as part of thecurriculum and then be more
proactive by bringing moreawareness through social media
and promoting and encouragingstudents to pursue that type of
(37:30):
field.
Instagram, social media, let'ssay and that begins, I believe,
first in school and it needs tobe one of those areas that needs
to be amplified in the websiteof our schools.
Let's say I agree, do somethingabout it.
(37:51):
Here it is Healthcare is acritical area.
We need more healthcareproviders, care providers.
We can prepare you to enterthis field as soon as you finish
high school.
You're going to be ready tojump right into this and begin
to serve.
Speaker 1 (38:09):
Right, right, and then you already have a sort of
plan already designed for you.
You have your career alreadyset for you.
Speaker 2 (38:16):
Can you imagine?
You're not looking for age 18,you get out of high school and
you're already certified,certified healthcare provider
because your two courses andcurriculum that is going to be
conducive of what you're goingto do in the very near future.
You don't even have to waitanother two years for that
matter.
We can prepare you by the timeyou finish high school.
You can step into that fieldimmediately.
Speaker 1 (38:38):
Right, right, right, right, immediately, right, right
, right, right.
Florida is a hotbed forretirees snowboarders, and what
are some of the, I guess,changes, or is there any
initiatives in regards tosupporting our snowboarders that
come down here and help us?
(38:58):
I guess, have the flourishingFlorida.
Speaker 2 (38:59):
Well, snowbirds have always been a trend in the state
of Florida, especially when youlook at, let's say, the east
region of the county.
In Zephyr Hills I mean the cityof Zephyr Hills it seems to be
dapples every winter and thenthey go back.
Snowbirds is a good segment ofthe population but I think as
(39:24):
eventually as they age, many ofthem transition to florida more
permanently because they can'ttake the cold weather any longer
up and also they stay here.
So encouraging them to stayhere, I think, is a good thing,
but also at the same time, weneed to be proactive of the
healthcare that will benecessary to take care of our
(39:46):
seniors here.
Speaker 1 (39:47):
Yes, I agree, I agree with that.
So now I want to get into asegment here where we have a
little fun, but we also learnabout you.
So it's called it's a game.
It's called Seven Versions ofMe.
Yes, sir, seven Versions of Me?
Speaker 2 (40:01):
Yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (40:02):
Seven Versions of Mr Gabriel, so you get seven
seconds to provide your answer.
And don't give me a simpleanswer, please, sir.
All right, gabriel as a husband.
Speaker 2 (40:17):
As a husband.
My wife is my partner and she'smy priority and she's there
with me anywhere I go and she'sthe most important person in my
life.
Speaker 1 (40:29):
There we go.
All right, give her as a father.
Speaker 2 (40:32):
Well, fatherhood is significant too.
What I instill to my kids isvitally significant, because
that is going to determine theirfuture.
There we go.
Speaker 1 (40:43):
As a sibling.
Speaker 2 (40:44):
As a sibling yes, my siblings.
I have two sisters that Idearly love, and attempting to
communicate with them andspending time with them is
vitally important.
I have one overseas and onehere, as well that she comes, or
we might go and visitperiodically as well.
Speaker 1 (41:03):
Are you okay with sharing where she lives?
She lives in.
Speaker 2 (41:05):
Nebraska.
One of them lives in Nebraska,the other one lives in Cyprus.
Speaker 1 (41:09):
Okay, all right.
All right, and as a son, as ason.
Speaker 2 (41:14):
I am a product of the great impact that my own father
provided.
It was a hardworking, godly manwho instilled good ethics and
integrity in me.
Speaker 1 (41:26):
Got it, got it, got it.
Speaker 2 (41:28):
And as an entrepreneur, as an entrepreneur
, I believe in starting newthings and that's why I'm always
inquisitive to engage thecommunity and build and develop
those public-privatepartnerships by developing
not-for-profit organizations.
Speaker 1 (41:44):
Right, right.
And then finally, is ultimatelyyour impact on your community.
You responded greatly on it.
What would you use as a closingstatement to just say this is
me and this is who I am, andthis is my impact to my
community?
Speaker 2 (42:05):
I am and this is my impact to my community.
Well, I always want to be avoice for the citizens of Pasco
County and a great advocate andrepresentative for this
wonderful county, and that's whyI'm running for County
Commissioner as well, too.
I have been in countygovernment for many years and I
want to be the voice andrepresent the people Not a
politician, but a voice forpeople, where I will engage them
to be part of the solution andto serve them.
Speaker 1 (42:28):
Alright, so that's seven versions of Gabriel.
That was great.
You did good.
I think that was one of thebest responses we've had on the
show.
But now our second game we playhere on the show is.
That's our second game we playhere on the show is that's my
Answer.
So you have five seconds torespond with this game here.
So it's either or type Dancingor singing.
Speaker 2 (42:55):
I love to do both.
Actually, I like the Greek folkmusic where you just dance on
your feet and I like to sing anddon't necessarily have I can
hit every tune, but I love tosing.
Speaker 1 (43:09):
You try though Travel .
No I say you try to sing.
Speaker 2 (43:13):
Oh, I try to sing.
Yes, yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (43:15):
What do you primarily sing?
Speaker 2 (43:17):
Well, I do a lot of Christian contemporary music.
Okay, I love that.
Speaker 1 (43:22):
Yeah, Got it Okay.
The next one is what'ssomething that just really
pisses you off?
Speaker 2 (43:29):
Really upsets me is when, when someone is dragging
his feet and they don't movefast enough.
Speaker 1 (43:36):
Yeah, yeah, I agree with that.
Boxing or MMA Boxing, boxing orMMA Boxing.
Speaker 2 (43:43):
Boxing.
Speaker 1 (43:44):
All right.
Do you have a favorite footballplayer?
Speaker 2 (43:48):
Teeple.
Speaker 1 (43:49):
Team Teeple Team.
Speaker 2 (43:50):
Teeple.
Yes, Team Teeple.
Speaker 1 (43:52):
Is he a Florida Gator ?
Speaker 2 (43:52):
fan yes.
Speaker 1 (43:54):
You're a Florida Gator fan.
Speaker 2 (43:55):
Yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (43:56):
Really, man, I didn't know that.
Speaker 2 (43:58):
Yeah, I like Tim Tebow.
I know he was a flogator, but Ilike the type of bass he comes
back in years or two.
Speaker 1 (44:05):
Me too, I like the bass.
I do like Tim Tebow too.
Do you have a favorite song?
Speaker 2 (44:10):
Favorite song Mm-hmm.
Well, a good song that I likeis the one that we use for our
wedding too.
I've been waiting for a girllike you.
Speaker 1 (44:18):
Okay, for a girl like you so I've been waiting for a
girl like you.
Yeah, so that's one of myfavorite songs, so I'm gonna
battle that notion there.
So, but I have to ask you thisif a woman would, would take you
on a date, where would you wantthem?
Where would you want to go?
Speaker 2 (44:38):
well, willing to go.
Yeah, I would like to go andenjoy a nice greek meal greek
meal.
Where, where you know, I'mgoing to hellas in tarpaul
springs hellas, I've never beenthere oh, it's right on the
docks, yeah it's great yeah,it's wonderful food there, yeah
it's better than well, I knowit's acropolis yeah, okay, well,
(44:58):
they're good.
They are all kinds of goodrestaurants there.
Speaker 1 (45:01):
Yeah, I like Acropolis though.
Speaker 2 (45:03):
Yeah, I like Acropolis too as well.
They're all good, they're allgood.
Speaker 1 (45:07):
Yeah, one food or dish you could eat every day if
you had to choose.
Speaker 2 (45:13):
One food I could eat every day Fish, fish.
I like fish, salmon Okay.
Speaker 1 (45:19):
Yeah, all right, like fish someone, okay, yeah, all
right.
Uh, jackie chan or bruce lee,bruce lee, bruce lee, all right.
And uh, the last one here.
Uh, if you could snoop throughone person's private life, who
would it be?
Speaker 2 (45:33):
get away with it.
Get away with it too to getaway with it live past person,
where one person, ronald Reagan,run away and why because I
think he really he was a greatleader and he left a great
legacy behind.
Now we'll back to find out moredetails about him and how he
(45:54):
became such a successful leaderkind of okay, good, good.
Speaker 1 (45:58):
Well, I hope you enjoy the game.
It's good to see you know yourlikes dislikes.
I hope you enjoyed the game.
It's good to see you know yourlikes dislikes.
I thought you were going to saysomething about driving with
the whole pissing me off.
Well, I thought about that too,because you've been in Pasco
County, man, so you know peopleman.
Oh my God, I guess yeah, thatmakes my blood boil sometimes.
Speaker 2 (46:17):
Yeah, it goes alongside of what I share, if
little more sometimes.
Yeah, it goes alongside of whatI share if someone isn't moving
faster now.
Oh yeah, it is, that's truethat's true.
Speaker 1 (46:26):
Um, I do.
I don't want to uh end withoutgoing back to correct something.
So you do have a blended familyyes, sir blended family, so I
don't want to miss overlookanyone as well.
So that's wonderful and andcongratulations to you all and
must, which you must assess.
But as we wrap up here today,coffee listeners, we had a
(46:48):
wonderful time here with MrPapadopoulos running for County
Commissioners to support ourneeds here in Pasco County,
someone that's been here over 30years, dedicated to us, over 30
years actively in the community.
Wonderful spirituality,spiritual connection, a man of
great foundation, man thatbelieves in family, great
(47:11):
dynamics in his family, right,great fostering the leadership
and you see it within hischildren.
So a great person gave me anopportunity, right, only met him
short, brief period of time andfor him to just open his arm up
and say you know, I'm gonnagive this guy a chance he don't
even know me at all very well,um, and to just have access to
(47:33):
him via a phone call.
His real phone number, right,real responses.
So, uh, that means a lot to me.
I really cherish that.
I'm a very loyal individual,just from me to you and your
family.
Anything you need from me, youjust call me, I'm there.
Seriously, thank you again.
I hope you all enjoy it.
(47:54):
Let's Get Comfy Podcast,gabriel Papadopoulos.
Vote for him, vote for Papa,yeah.
3, 2, 1.
Welcome back to another episodeof the let's Get Comfy podcast,
where we empower listeners withthe knowledge and resources so
they can age comfortably.
Florida's number one healthcareentertainment station where we
bring you comfort, peace, joy,love, but most of all,
(00:25):
comfortability.
I'm your host, norman Harris,sole proprietor and owner of
Comfort Measures Consulting.
Today we have a wonderful guestwith us who embodies the modern
American dream of Greek descent, he arrived here in the US in
1982 to seize the opportunitiesof America.
(00:49):
He earned a bachelor's degreein communication from Lee
University and a master's ofbusiness administration from St
Leo University, my alma mater aswell.
A devoted family man with a wifeand five children, and ordained
minister, a founder and seniorpastor of New Horizons Church.
(01:10):
A military man Cypress military, his community spirit led him
to establish organization likeleading feeding Pascoe elderly,
empowering Pascoe's veteran,uplifting neighbors.
Dedicated 31 years to PascoeCounty government, rising to the
(01:32):
role of community servicedirector where he oversaw
veteran services, human servicesand senior services divisions.
A resident of Pasco County forover 35 years, he continued his
community tirelessly, ensuringthat every community citizen has
the opportunity to achievetheir own American dream.
(01:55):
The prime candidate for PascoCounty Commissioner, known by
the mantra Papa for PascoGabriel Papadopoulos.
Welcome to the show, sir.
Speaker 2 (02:07):
Oh, it's a pleasure to be with you.
Norman what a great opportunityto be with you today.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
Thank you very much, I'm so glad to have this
opportunity, so glad to havethis opportunity.
So I like to start out from anintroductory standpoint of just
understanding you and yourjourney here, your dedication to
the community.
But I want to go back to yourorigins because I find it very
(02:33):
interesting and I'm sure ourcoffee listeners will as well if
you could just describe justyour speak to us regarding your
Greek descent and how youtransitioned here to America.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
So obviously, I was born in Cyprus.
It's a Greek island, anindependent island that is part
of the European common market.
Today it's the second largestisland after Sicily in the
Mediterranean.
So I grew there, I grew upthere and then I transitioned to
(03:05):
the US in 1982, in Tennessee,out of all places, tennessee,
yeah, a beautiful place,tennessee.
And I remember, in fact, afterI was in Tennessee for a little
while, I was traveling to NewYork and the taxi driver asked
me where are you from?
He said I said Tennessee.
(03:26):
And then he said well, that'swhy you have got that wonderful
southern accent.
So, anyway, tennessee.
And later on again, I was inthe Washington DC area.
The same remark was made andthey thought I had a southern
accent.
I guess it was a Greek southernaccent.
Obviously, I speak the Greekand I write the Greek better
than you came up with your ownsort of accent.
(03:47):
Yes, so I went to school,obviously here.
I went to Lee University inTennessee.
That's where I have gotten myundergraduate degree in
communication and later on, onceI transitioned to Florida in
1986, later on I have gotten myMaster's in Business
(04:07):
Administration raising familyand the kids here and I started
living in Dade City actually,and from there, gradually I
transitioned from Dade City toWesley Chapel, san Antonio, all
the way to New Porichie now,port San Antonio, all the way to
New Porichie now, and that'swhere I have been serving for
(04:28):
most of the 35 plus yearsserving the entire county
actually.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
So you touch almost every community in Pasco County.
Speaker 2 (04:36):
Yes, sir, there is no corner of Pasco County that I'm
not familiar with Right right.
Including Triple Ecucci.
What?
Speaker 1 (04:44):
Triple Ecucci.
What, tripoli, what?
Speaker 2 (04:47):
Yeah, it's just north of Dade City.
Yes, including Tripoli, Coochie, oh man.
Speaker 1 (04:51):
But I have to ask you though.
So you stayed in Tennessee Now,did you enjoy the barbecue?
There Was barbecue moreprominent up there during that
time.
Speaker 2 (05:01):
Well, barbecue was always good in Tennessee, yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:04):
Compare it to Pascoe.
How would you compare it?
Who wins?
Speaker 2 (05:08):
I'll say they're pretty equal, Norman Go on.
I'll say they're pretty equal,maybe slightly Tennessee wins,
tennessee wins, maybe slightlywins.
Speaker 1 (05:19):
So we have honesty.
You see what he's displayingalready.
Honesty, right, yeah, honesty,you see he was he's displaying
already honesty, right, yeah.
So uh, just want to talk aboutthis transition from at a, from
a.
Uh, was it childhood when youmoved here to the us, or was it
no?
Speaker 2 (05:33):
actually, I was an adult already, even though I
leave most of my life here too.
I was about 20 when I came.
Oh, I was 20, yes, and so, um,this is home for me.
Most of my life have been inFlorida, and I love Pasco County
.
I think Pasco is one of thegreatest counties in the nation.
Speaker 1 (05:54):
There we go, there we go.
Actually, one of the mostfastest-growing counties rated.
I want to say what in 2023?
Speaker 2 (06:02):
Yes, it's one of the fastest growing counties, not
only among the 60, one of thefastest growing among the six to
seven counties in the state offlorida, but one of the fastest
in the nation right, right, okay.
Speaker 1 (06:13):
So, um, growing up, uh, just as a youth.
Who would you say is the mostinfluential person in your life
and why?
Speaker 2 (06:20):
well I I say my own father was very influential in
my life and we have gone throughsome challenges growing up too.
I remember I was about 12 yearsof age when we had a war there.
It was Turkey was invading totake part of this beautiful
island and I remember at thattime I was literally on my belly
(06:46):
when the bullets and the bombswere hitting the region there.
So it was an experience for meand of course then, after that,
of course, I served in themilitary for a couple of years.
So that was truly an experiencetoo, and that was a unique
season of my life because I wascamping for two years.
(07:08):
What I was camping for twoyears?
Speaker 1 (07:10):
no AC Like in the jungle or like.
Speaker 2 (07:13):
Well, it was out.
Well, you can call it thejungle, I guess.
Yeah, no, AC.
No, it was out and about in thecountry, I guess, because we
were on a stage of war at thetime and you had an outhouse
where you went to the bathroom,but in order to take a shower
you have to take some wood andwarm it up.
(07:33):
So we are always ready to facethe enemy.
Speaker 1 (07:39):
Right, so you know about real, true trials and
tribulations?
Oh yes, sir.
Your hard time.
Yeah, yeah, I couldn't imaginebeing there doing that.
So thank you for your serviceand that shows your commitment
to your country as well, youknow.
So if you just during thetransition to the US and so what
(08:01):
year did you move actually toFlorida it was 1986.
Speaker 2 (08:04):
1986.
Okay, so that's 1986.
All right.
Speaker 1 (08:08):
So now I do understand, as I did your
introduction and just myresearch on you, that you're
actually a minister as well.
So when did that begin yourcommitment and dedication to
spirituality?
Speaker 2 (08:21):
Well, actually, I have always been involved in the
ministry, while I was engagedin the community and working for
county government, andeventually it was later on, in
2011, where, officially, Istarted pastoring New Horizons
(08:41):
Church.
New Horizons Church started.
We started in a home and wecontinued to grow.
From there we transitioned toan association it was like a
clubhouse civic association andthen from there we to a
storefront, and there we are ona beautiful campus now of about
five acres.
We purchased another churchbuilding and we have an
(09:03):
additional building that isseated on the premises.
So the infrastructure and thefoundation is there as we
continue to grow and I continueto pastor and minister while I
was with county government aswell too.
So, by the grace of God, apioneer of the church and now
we're growing and so we're verymuch engaged in the community,
(09:24):
helping families, helping ourveterans and helping those in
need.
Speaker 1 (09:30):
Right, right, right.
So you were there from theground up with New Horizons.
Speaker 2 (09:32):
Yes, sir, we started from scratch actually.
Speaker 1 (09:35):
Yeah, Wow, wow.
Take me back to memories as akid Now.
At that time I was younger, soyou did it more, you know as an
adult, but, um, just thinkingwith my parents we had we was at
a storefront going to churchand I used to be embarrassed
yeah, I didn't want to invitenobody to church.
We go to a little store,convenience store, so but I
(09:56):
didn't as a kid, you know, asyou, yeah you don't understand
like the you know connection andjust the development of just
growing things up from theground up.
I went through that experience,but probably with a different
mentality at the time.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
I learned one thing, norman A big shot is a small
shot.
Who kept shooting?
No matter what your face and nomatter what your experiences
are, you stay steadfast on thepath.
That's the way you come to theend, victorious I'm stealing
that from me a big shot.
How you say it again, a bigshot is a small shot.
(10:34):
Who kept shooting small?
Speaker 1 (10:36):
shot.
So you never stop, you neverstop never stop.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
You continue to endure.
Yes, because good things don'tcome overnight.
Speaker 1 (10:43):
Right.
So I want the listeners here toalso just be able to relate to
you.
I want them to understand yourfamily life and how you're
dedicated to your family andjust family dynamics.
So if you just expand on yourimmediate family wife and kids-
so my wife obviously has beenwith me.
Speaker 2 (11:05):
We have, I know we have five children in the bar.
We have eight total and, uh,some are in new york.
The youngest is 18 now.
She's just now finishing highschool, so it's, uh, it's been a
journey to her.
Speaker 1 (11:18):
Yeah, it's been a journey To her.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
Yeah, it's been a journey raising the children,
but they're all smart andthey're all very much driven.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Right.
Speaker 2 (11:29):
And they're spiritual kids.
They love the Lord as well too,and they serve in their
communities.
Speaker 1 (11:35):
There you go.
Well, that's going to be myquestion.
Which one of you think willfollow more, so closer in your
path, you think?
Speaker 2 (11:43):
Probably all of them to some degree, but probably the
oldest one probably will followmore of my path, but I think
all of them to some degree, allof them that are involved in the
community.
And we're proud parents of oneof our children who is in the
Air Force, who is serving as anofficer there, thank you.
(12:03):
So she's serving therefaithfully, and the rest of the
kids are serving in variouscapacities, anywhere from public
relations to technology tobeing in insurance management.
So they're all multi-talentedkids, let's put it that way.
Speaker 1 (12:25):
Good, good, good.
That's commendable to you.
So, as a father leader, you'rea leader in the church.
You're a leader in yourcommunity, leader of your
household.
What are some of the principlesthat you instill in your home?
Speaker 2 (12:41):
Well, the very first one is put God first.
In God we trust, and that's howthis nation started.
And you mentioned ofmid-transition into the US.
I think that's what makes mewho I am, because this is the
land of the brave and the landof the free, but that goes back
(13:01):
to a cornerstone in God withtrust.
So the Lord is first, and theneverything else falls under that
category, such as obviouslyyour family and, of course,
obviously everything that comesright under that, such as your
ministry and your engagement inthe community.
Speaker 1 (13:19):
My pastor would say if you put your life in order
how god decided it to be godfirst your family.
You know.
Marriage, yeah, that's, that'sthe order that is designed, you
know, and things will fall intoplace.
So, that being said, you know,um, you're the pillar of your
family.
You have your wonderful wifehere today with you as well,
(13:41):
supporting when I first saw,first saw you Guess who I saw
you with.
Speaker 2 (13:44):
Yes, my wife.
Speaker 1 (13:46):
Yep, you better have.
Speaker 2 (13:47):
She's with me anywhere I go.
She's glued next to me.
Speaker 1 (13:52):
There we go, for a reason, right?
So how did you all meet?
Speaker 2 (13:55):
We met at the church.
Actually, there you go.
Yes, sir, that's the betterplace to find a spouse.
I wouldn't search for a spouseanywhere else.
I think that's the better place.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Yes, Right, right and the five children later, right.
Speaker 2 (14:10):
Yeah so that's good.
Five and three later.
Yeah, got it Combined yeah,combined.
Speaker 1 (14:16):
So what created that bond and commitment?
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Well, I think the bond and commitment between both
of us was the cornerstone thatI share with you was I trust in
the lord and that's how we havebeen united together and we're
both partners and serving in thecommunity and also serving in
the ministry too.
We're very much engagedtogether got it.
Speaker 1 (14:39):
Yes, sir, yes, uh, and I did see you at the lions
group, my first meeting there,and that shows you a game that
you were presenting Right.
Speaker 2 (14:48):
Yeah, that's right.
Speaker 1 (14:50):
Bahamas breeze right.
Yeah, yes, so so what was yourfirst job here?
I First job ever here in PascoCounty.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
So I came to Pasco County and transitioned smoothly
.
Actually, I remember, you knowI was staying with good friends
and I remember the gentlemanspoke life into my life.
He said you're going to besuccessful.
He said you're going to besuccessful and he was driving
around to take me to find a jobduring that time.
(15:17):
And lo and behold, eventuallymy very first job.
It was working with juveniledelinquents as a counselor.
So I've done that.
It was a pretty interestingjourney that I went through that
.
I did it for a short season andI believe we touched the lives
of some of the youngergeneration at that time to steer
(15:39):
them into the right direction.
That was my very first job.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
Yes, your first job.
Wow, that sounds like achallenge, honestly, to me.
Yeah, yeah, I don't know if Iwant that job.
Yeah, so if you describe justyour feeling and your dedication
to law enforcement, firstresponders because you've always
(16:04):
served and I think thosecareers are people that really
just put their life on the lineand sacrifice.
Speaker 2 (16:13):
Absolutely.
First responders and obviouslypolice have always been very
dear to my heart because Iserved as well in the military
and I know what it is to put ona green uniform and hold a rifle
.
And, of course, I served fordecades in county government.
(16:34):
I have been a public servanttakes dedication.
I have been there, been in thetrenches, especially when we
have disastrous storms.
I work closely with firstresponders and I believe first
responders are a cornerstone ofthe success of any society and
we need to honor them.
And I was honored, privilegedactually, during my tenure with
(16:56):
county government, to have undermy oversight the Veterans
Services Division, a greatdivision that provided benefits
and services to our veteranspopulation and, believe it or
not, we have about more than oneand a half million veterans in
the state of Florida and we getabout 60,000 in beautiful Pasco
(17:18):
County as well.
Wow, about 60,000 vets in PascoCounty, wow, that's a lot.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
But that's great, that's great.
So do you see any challengesthat you think they faced in law
enforcement in regards to, youknow, maybe having the necessary
resources?
Speaker 2 (17:35):
I think this is something I have seen through my
years of serving with countygovernment and now running for
county commissioner.
Of course, digging more into itand finding out that we need
obviously more first respondersand more police forces in Pasco
(17:57):
County will grow rapidly.
Obviously, about a thousand tofifteen hundred people are
moving into the state of Floridadaily, and we get our share
here in the region about ahundred hundred and fifty people
.
So definitely we need morefirst responders in Pasco County
and I think one of thechallenges with first responders
(18:19):
is wages too.
I believe we came a long way.
We have ways to go as well too,and considering the fact that
they're in the front linefighting for us, I believe you
know they need to be compensatedwell as well.
Yes, because that determines thesuccess of any community.
(18:41):
Safety is a concern of anyonewhen they move into any region
and when it comes to medicalresponses, currently, let's say,
the average response time isabout 12 to 15 minutes, and that
is totally unacceptable.
We really need to bring thatresponse time down to 4 to 6
(19:05):
minutes will be ideal, so we cankeep people alive when we call
the fire, rescue and theambulance to show up to the
scene.
So these are some of thechallenges I with first
responders, so we need to honorthem, we need to step behind
them.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
I agree, I agree definitely with you.
Know every pasture.
Now, if you ride now 54s, yousee, you know apartment complex
now.
So you need to have the supportfor emergency services and
individuals as well.
So that is very important.
So one transition now.
Now, and let's talk health careright and now this segment.
(19:45):
Here I want to educate, butalso understand your dedication
and work.
You've done as well in thehealth care arena, so why is
this important to you?
Speaker 2 (19:56):
Well, health care is is very important because that
determines the wellness of anycommunity, and that's why we
need to pay close attention as acommunity grows and as you
begin to see the newdevelopments and the new
apartment complexes, we need toensure we have hospitals in
(20:19):
place, clinics in place and allthe physicians, support and
medical providers in place, andwhat has happened through the
years?
I think sometimes we put thecart ahead of the horse, where
we continue to build and wecontinue to develop these
(20:40):
beautiful communities that wesee, without taking into
consideration the repercussionswith the growth, because you've
got to remember, you're not onlygoing to need transportation
and expanding the roads, but atthe same time, you need to make
sure you have the right numberof, let's say, first responders,
(21:00):
fire stations.
You need to ensure you havepolice in place that's part of
wellness as well too, believe itor not and you need to make
sure you have the right numberof hospitals within a specific
mileage to accommodate thisfast-growing population.
(21:21):
Now we have more than 600,000in Pasco County and within the
next 10, 15 years, we're goingto be over a million people.
Yes, so we need to considerthese factors of wellness every
time a community grows yes, ofwellness every time a community
grows.
So we came a long ways.
We have ways to go in PascoCounty and that is going to be
(21:45):
one of my main drives as countycommissioner.
Thank you, sir, yes sir.
Speaker 1 (21:50):
So one of our confi supporters, ms Gina Fay, she
asked a question that I wantedto just pose to you as well.
She said why are caregiverwages so low?
Speaker 2 (22:04):
You know that's a good question.
I'll tell you why.
Because it's sad to say what Idug into that.
Some is because normally whathas happened through the years
that has been the profession ofminorities.
So what they have done, theyhave been paying them lower
(22:25):
wages and that needs to change.
Normally you will see Haitianpeople, you will see Latinos, I
think normally in that type ofprofession you will see African
Americans and we need to reallymake some adjustments to that to
bring their wages up.
Speaker 1 (22:43):
I agree and I always say, and I continue to say,
being a skilled nursingadministrator for a few years, I
said CNAs are the backbone tohealthcare.
Speaker 2 (22:54):
You better believe it .
Speaker 1 (22:55):
They're doing the lifting to have the most contact
with the families and thepatients as well and we get a
lot of our information asleadership right from their
documentation, fromcommunicating with them, because
they're firsthand on with thepatients and the families.
They're the reflection of theexperience right in regards to
customer service and that care.
(23:16):
But I never understood thecorrelation with the wage.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Oh, yeah, yeah, absolutely.
That's the reason why I startedmaking some research on that,
because that is theinfrastructure of any health
care.
That's the first person apatient or a client it's going
to have contact with, and thesepeople need to be compensated
(23:42):
reasonable wages as well.
Speaker 1 (23:44):
right, right so what are some policies or initiatives
that you will advocate for inregards to supporting caregivers
?
Speaker 2 (23:53):
well as a kind of Commissioner obviously is.
You are not in the post todirectly make that decision, but
this County Commissioner can dowonders though you need to work
as Commissioner.
I can work closely with thelegislation and also work
(24:16):
closely with federalrepresentatives in Washington to
bring some adjustment to thisconcern, and to me it's a major
issue because these are thefolks that determine the success
of any medical care provider orany client who is taken care of
(24:42):
at home Is the first personnormally a patient or a client
will see when they firstadmitted to any medical facility
and the last person they'regoing to see when they leave.
I mean, they're the ones whoare going to change the sheets
on the bed.
They're the ones who are goingto bathe the patient.
They're the ones who are goingto change the sheets on the bed.
(25:02):
They're the ones who are goingto bathe the patient.
They're the ones who are goingto clean the room, bring the
meal if you're in a hospital,and normally they're the last
person they're going to see whenthey leave.
So first and last impressionand these are the angels I call
them of medical care.
Speaker 1 (25:16):
Angels of medical care.
Yes, sir, yes sir, I like that.
I like that, I like that.
How will you addressdisparities in healthcare access
for social, economicindividuals' backgrounds, so
individuals that are maybe inrural areas or minorities?
I know a lot of times theresources there are available to
(25:39):
them.
And something that I've beenresearching is, you know, the
increase of the use of virtualor like telehealth and those
type of access.
Do you have any initiative forthat?
Speaker 2 (25:54):
I think telehealth is important and mainly in these
rural areas.
You're going to deal with thesenior population, which they're
going to need some assistancewith telehealth as well.
But the second step I wouldtake is mobile health care as
well.
I think having mobile units togo to the rural areas will be
(26:17):
just a good venue to accommodatesome of those patients, because
, you got to remember, many andprobably the majority of your
patients are going to be seniorsand, ironically, in pasco
county, uh, more than 30 percentof the population are over the
age of 60.
(26:45):
The age of 60, and some of themare in remote areas, especially
on the eastern portion of thecounty, when you go north of the
city, and some of the seniorsneed to have accommodations to
receive the care right.
Another method you can take, ofcourse, is transportation.
Um, some of them might be ableto go to their medical
appointments, but they're goingto need some type of paratransit
transportation to be picked upand taken to the medical
(27:06):
facility.
Pasco County government has inplace already a paratransit
system which I think we need topolish and enhance even more so
to accommodate these folks, notonly to take them to medical
appointments but also to groceryshopping and other places where
they need to go.
Speaker 1 (27:27):
Yes, yes, that is so true.
That is so true for sure.
So I know you are very hands-onand active in the community.
Are there any initiatives thatyou're working on currently
that's related to health care inthe community at this time?
Speaker 2 (27:43):
well what I do.
I said what the board ofdirectors for in various
capacities and one of the boardof directors I serve as the vice
chair is is providing seniorswith a brown back meal is
through volunteer way, and andwe we attempt every effort to
(28:06):
give them a meal that isnutritionally balanced, as much
as we can, because yournutrition intake determines the
health of your physical body aswell.
Yes, and this is just somethingI currently do, also through
the ministry we're leading theministry as a lead pastor.
(28:27):
We ensure we accommodatefamilies and those who may not
have the ability to provide 100%for themselves.
At least we supplement to givethem what we have, as well as
our veterans and seniors.
So this is something that we do.
I'm a strong believer and ithas been, of course, medically
(28:52):
proven too that good nutritiondetermines also the well-being
of a person.
Speaker 1 (28:57):
Right, right.
You can't have proper healingwithout proper nutrition.
Speaker 2 (29:01):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (29:02):
Yes, sir.
So what's your long-term visionfor health care system, right
for the aging population?
Speaker 2 (29:10):
Well, being county commissioner, one of the areas I
would target is I would tapinto federal dollars through the
Older Americans Act as well too.
Now the Older Americans Act hasbeen signed by President
Johnson back in 1965, and sincethen has been tenaciously
(29:33):
providing funding to the statesand local governments to serve
their seniors in variouscapacities, one of which is care
at home of seniors, another oneis providing nutritionally
balanced meals and, of course,pilot transit transportation.
(29:54):
Because you must bear in mind,the majority of people we are
going to serve, especially astime progresses now, is going to
be the senior population.
People live longer, yes andevery.
When you look at statistically,let's say, every 60 seconds,
(30:15):
about seven people turn over theage of 65 in the US, and of
course, we have our share herein Pasco County.
Yeah, and these folks have somechallenges.
I mean it's anywhere fromtransitional housing to the
increased medical care and andas well as, of course,
(30:39):
transportation.
These are challenges ourseniors are facing, and
isolation is very critical.
That determines, again, thehealth of a person.
So we need to be tapping intosome more funding, if we can
from the feds to bring someresources down through the Older
Americans Act and, of course,an approach I took through the
(31:01):
years is public-privatepartnerships.
I think that is so vitallysignificant when you begin to
engage the community to be partof the solution.
Sometimes we expect governmentto do it all, but that's
impossible for government to doit all, norman.
So that's why you need toengage the community to be part
of the solution.
And when you look at, let's say, my track record, that's one of
(31:25):
the initiatives that I tookthrough the years, always
developing not-for-profits thatwill come alongside and work
with government.
You had mentioned earlier,let's say, feeding pascals
elderly.
That's one of thenot-for-profits that I founded
and I had a great team of peoplewho work with me and I'm glad
(31:47):
it's going stronger nowgenerates funding by engaging
the community to offset the costfor seniors in pasco County.
So engaging the community isvital tapping into the Old Door
American Sac Fund and I thinkit's important too and, of
(32:10):
course, making sure that asenior stays in their home as
long as possible.
Speaker 1 (32:19):
Aging in place.
Speaker 2 (32:20):
Yeah, absolutely.
I know we have nursing homesout there and sometimes it's
hard to say it's inevitableyou're going to have to place
someone in a nursing homefacility.
But at the end of the day aperson ages so much better,
they're so much more comfortablein their own home.
If we can keep them in theirhome, it's so much better.
(32:40):
The average nursing home careyou're looking over a hundred
thousand dollars, my goodness.
Now every year that's a hugeamount of dollars to come up
with and not every senior has ahundred thousand dollars minimum
for a nursing home facility.
So if we can keep them at homeas long as we can, that will be
even better.
(33:00):
How are we going to do that?
Providing meals, providingparatransit for them, let's say,
having qualified good healthcare providers CNAs to be there
to help out home healthcaregiver individuals.
I think that can make a bigdifference in their journey of
(33:24):
aging.
Speaker 1 (33:24):
Right, right, right, Okay, thank you.
So one of the initiatives forour Florida Healthcare
Association is really focusingon the next generation of
caregivers.
So, as you stated sort ofearlier, the population here
with aging community isincreasing.
You know greatly, you know.
(33:46):
But however, the number ofstudents are younger, Gen Z that
are going actually in a nursingfield are decreasing.
How can we sort of change thatto help improve and increase the
number of individuals that aretaking the initiative to
actually go into the field andprovide care?
Speaker 2 (34:06):
I think it's something that needs to be
instilled while a child is inschool.
We need to work closely withour district school board
Already.
There are some initiatives.
Years ago, I remember thedistrict school board had a
program used to be called thetech prep program, because not
(34:27):
every child who finishes highschool is going to go to college
.
So we need to educate them,make this type of training
accessible to them, where we cantrain on demand health care
(34:47):
providers while they're still inschool, by bringing curricula
and training on-the-job trainingwithin the last couple years of
high school.
I think that would make it aseamless transition.
You finish high school, you hadsome schooling, you took some
(35:09):
courses, but you had someon-the-job training, as you are
a graduate and you receive yourhigh school diploma, but you
know what?
At the same time, you'recertified as a home health aid
or you're certified as acertified nursing assistant, so
when they finish, they have atleast a door wide open for them
(35:34):
to start transitioning.
Because you had mentioned thatthe population increases.
You're going to have morepeople who are going to demand
these services and it's soimportant that we are proactive
instead of reactive when itcomes to those type of needs.
Speaker 1 (35:49):
Right, right, but I think I see a lot of the
challenges is just understandingand raising the awareness.
Right, you look at there's manyservices out there, such as
palliative or hospice care inthe life planning, that are
accessible to individuals butthey either have a misconception
about it or it's not reallymarketed, right, you don't see
(36:13):
advertisement for you know carein regards to hospice.
You don't see the marketing forstudents to actually actually
take that initiative to get intothe healthcare field.
You know readily available.
Right, most time you look onsocial media you don't see those
things.
You know great people want tolook at the most flashier or you
(36:33):
know sort of industries whereyou can, I guess, hit big and
get rich.
You know, but but how can webring more awareness and promote
?
You know the industry better,you know.
Speaker 2 (36:44):
I think it begins, as I said, it begins, at the high
school level.
I believe it needs to beinstilled within the minds of
students.
Listen, this is the growth,this is a demand in this
community.
We can help you, we can prepyou to get into this field.
(37:07):
Our thinking is to be regularlyannounced in high school and
make it as part of thecurriculum and then be more
proactive by bringing moreawareness through social media
and promoting and encouragingstudents to pursue that type of
(37:30):
field.
Instagram, social media, let'ssay and that begins, I believe,
first in school and it needs tobe one of those areas that needs
to be amplified in the websiteof our schools.
Let's say I agree, do somethingabout it.
(37:51):
Here it is Healthcare is acritical area.
We need more healthcareproviders, care providers.
We can prepare you to enterthis field as soon as you finish
high school.
You're going to be ready tojump right into this and begin
to serve.
Speaker 1 (38:09):
Right, right, and then you already have a sort of
plan already designed for you.
You have your career alreadyset for you.
Speaker 2 (38:16):
Can you imagine?
You're not looking for age 18,you get out of high school and
you're already certified,certified healthcare provider
because your two courses andcurriculum that is going to be
conducive of what you're goingto do in the very near future.
You don't even have to waitanother two years for that
matter.
We can prepare you by the timeyou finish high school.
You can step into that fieldimmediately.
Speaker 1 (38:38):
Right, right, right, right, immediately, right, right
, right, right.
Florida is a hotbed forretirees snowboarders, and what
are some of the, I guess,changes, or is there any
initiatives in regards tosupporting our snowboarders that
come down here and help us?
(38:58):
I guess, have the flourishingFlorida.
Speaker 2 (38:59):
Well, snowbirds have always been a trend in the state
of Florida, especially when youlook at, let's say, the east
region of the county.
In Zephyr Hills I mean the cityof Zephyr Hills it seems to be
dapples every winter and thenthey go back.
Snowbirds is a good segment ofthe population but I think as
(39:24):
eventually as they age, many ofthem transition to florida more
permanently because they can'ttake the cold weather any longer
up and also they stay here.
So encouraging them to stayhere, I think, is a good thing,
but also at the same time, weneed to be proactive of the
healthcare that will benecessary to take care of our
(39:46):
seniors here.
Speaker 1 (39:47):
Yes, I agree, I agree with that.
So now I want to get into asegment here where we have a
little fun, but we also learnabout you.
So it's called it's a game.
It's called Seven Versions ofMe.
Yes, sir, seven Versions of Me?
Speaker 2 (40:01):
Yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (40:02):
Seven Versions of Mr Gabriel, so you get seven
seconds to provide your answer.
And don't give me a simpleanswer, please, sir.
All right, gabriel as a husband.
Speaker 2 (40:17):
As a husband.
My wife is my partner and she'smy priority and she's there
with me anywhere I go and she'sthe most important person in my
life.
Speaker 1 (40:29):
There we go.
All right, give her as a father.
Speaker 2 (40:32):
Well, fatherhood is significant too.
What I instill to my kids isvitally significant, because
that is going to determine theirfuture.
There we go.
Speaker 1 (40:43):
As a sibling.
Speaker 2 (40:44):
As a sibling yes, my siblings.
I have two sisters that Idearly love, and attempting to
communicate with them andspending time with them is
vitally important.
I have one overseas and onehere, as well that she comes, or
we might go and visitperiodically as well.
Speaker 1 (41:03):
Are you okay with sharing where she lives?
She lives in.
Speaker 2 (41:05):
Nebraska.
One of them lives in Nebraska,the other one lives in Cyprus.
Speaker 1 (41:09):
Okay, all right.
All right, and as a son, as ason.
Speaker 2 (41:14):
I am a product of the great impact that my own father
provided.
It was a hardworking, godly manwho instilled good ethics and
integrity in me.
Speaker 1 (41:26):
Got it, got it, got it.
Speaker 2 (41:28):
And as an entrepreneur, as an entrepreneur
, I believe in starting newthings and that's why I'm always
inquisitive to engage thecommunity and build and develop
those public-privatepartnerships by developing
not-for-profit organizations.
Speaker 1 (41:44):
Right, right.
And then finally, is ultimatelyyour impact on your community.
You responded greatly on it.
What would you use as a closingstatement to just say this is
me and this is who I am, andthis is my impact to my
community?
Speaker 2 (42:05):
I am and this is my impact to my community.
Well, I always want to be avoice for the citizens of Pasco
County and a great advocate andrepresentative for this
wonderful county, and that's whyI'm running for County
Commissioner as well, too.
I have been in countygovernment for many years and I
want to be the voice andrepresent the people Not a
politician, but a voice forpeople, where I will engage them
to be part of the solution andto serve them.
Speaker 1 (42:28):
Alright, so that's seven versions of Gabriel.
That was great.
You did good.
I think that was one of thebest responses we've had on the
show.
But now our second game we playhere on the show is.
That's our second game we playhere on the show is that's my
Answer.
So you have five seconds torespond with this game here.
So it's either or type Dancingor singing.
Speaker 2 (42:55):
I love to do both.
Actually, I like the Greek folkmusic where you just dance on
your feet and I like to sing anddon't necessarily have I can
hit every tune, but I love tosing.
Speaker 1 (43:09):
You try though Travel .
No I say you try to sing.
Speaker 2 (43:13):
Oh, I try to sing.
Yes, yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (43:15):
What do you primarily sing?
Speaker 2 (43:17):
Well, I do a lot of Christian contemporary music.
Okay, I love that.
Speaker 1 (43:22):
Yeah, Got it Okay.
The next one is what'ssomething that just really
pisses you off?
Speaker 2 (43:29):
Really upsets me is when, when someone is dragging
his feet and they don't movefast enough.
Speaker 1 (43:36):
Yeah, yeah, I agree with that.
Boxing or MMA Boxing, boxing orMMA Boxing.
Speaker 2 (43:43):
Boxing.
Speaker 1 (43:44):
All right.
Do you have a favorite footballplayer?
Speaker 2 (43:48):
Teeple.
Speaker 1 (43:49):
Team Teeple Team.
Speaker 2 (43:50):
Teeple.
Yes, Team Teeple.
Speaker 1 (43:52):
Is he a Florida Gator ?
Speaker 2 (43:52):
fan yes.
Speaker 1 (43:54):
You're a Florida Gator fan.
Speaker 2 (43:55):
Yes, sir.
Speaker 1 (43:56):
Really, man, I didn't know that.
Speaker 2 (43:58):
Yeah, I like Tim Tebow.
I know he was a flogator, but Ilike the type of bass he comes
back in years or two.
Speaker 1 (44:05):
Me too, I like the bass.
I do like Tim Tebow too.
Do you have a favorite song?
Speaker 2 (44:10):
Favorite song Mm-hmm.
Well, a good song that I likeis the one that we use for our
wedding too.
I've been waiting for a girllike you.
Speaker 1 (44:18):
Okay, for a girl like you so I've been waiting for a
girl like you.
Yeah, so that's one of myfavorite songs, so I'm gonna
battle that notion there.
So, but I have to ask you thisif a woman would, would take you
on a date, where would you wantthem?
Where would you want to go?
Speaker 2 (44:38):
well, willing to go.
Yeah, I would like to go andenjoy a nice greek meal greek
meal.
Where, where you know, I'mgoing to hellas in tarpaul
springs hellas, I've never beenthere oh, it's right on the
docks, yeah it's great yeah,it's wonderful food there, yeah
it's better than well, I knowit's acropolis yeah, okay, well,
(44:58):
they're good.
They are all kinds of goodrestaurants there.
Speaker 1 (45:01):
Yeah, I like Acropolis though.
Speaker 2 (45:03):
Yeah, I like Acropolis too as well.
They're all good, they're allgood.
Speaker 1 (45:07):
Yeah, one food or dish you could eat every day if
you had to choose.
Speaker 2 (45:13):
One food I could eat every day Fish, fish.
I like fish, salmon Okay.
Speaker 1 (45:19):
Yeah, all right, like fish someone, okay, yeah, all
right.
Uh, jackie chan or bruce lee,bruce lee, bruce lee, all right.
And uh, the last one here.
Uh, if you could snoop throughone person's private life, who
would it be?
Speaker 2 (45:33):
get away with it.
Get away with it too to getaway with it live past person,
where one person, ronald Reagan,run away and why because I
think he really he was a greatleader and he left a great
legacy behind.
Now we'll back to find out moredetails about him and how he
(45:54):
became such a successful leaderkind of okay, good, good.
Speaker 1 (45:58):
Well, I hope you enjoy the game.
It's good to see you know yourlikes dislikes.
I hope you enjoyed the game.
It's good to see you know yourlikes dislikes.
I thought you were going to saysomething about driving with
the whole pissing me off.
Well, I thought about that too,because you've been in Pasco
County, man, so you know peopleman.
Oh my God, I guess yeah, thatmakes my blood boil sometimes.
Speaker 2 (46:17):
Yeah, it goes alongside of what I share, if
little more sometimes.
Yeah, it goes alongside of whatI share if someone isn't moving
faster now.
Oh yeah, it is, that's truethat's true.
Speaker 1 (46:26):
Um, I do.
I don't want to uh end withoutgoing back to correct something.
So you do have a blended familyyes, sir blended family, so I
don't want to miss overlookanyone as well.
So that's wonderful and andcongratulations to you all and
must, which you must assess.
But as we wrap up here today,coffee listeners, we had a
(46:48):
wonderful time here with MrPapadopoulos running for County
Commissioners to support ourneeds here in Pasco County,
someone that's been here over 30years, dedicated to us, over 30
years actively in the community.
Wonderful spirituality,spiritual connection, a man of
great foundation, man thatbelieves in family, great
(47:11):
dynamics in his family, right,great fostering the leadership
and you see it within hischildren.
So a great person gave me anopportunity, right, only met him
short, brief period of time andfor him to just open his arm up
and say you know, I'm gonnagive this guy a chance he don't
even know me at all very well,um, and to just have access to
(47:33):
him via a phone call.
His real phone number, right,real responses.
So, uh, that means a lot to me.
I really cherish that.
I'm a very loyal individual,just from me to you and your
family.
Anything you need from me, youjust call me, I'm there.
Seriously, thank you again.
I hope you all enjoy it.
(47:54):
Let's Get Comfy Podcast,gabriel Papadopoulos.
Vote for him, vote for Papa,yeah.
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