I think it’s time for Stoops Way

NEIGHBORS SPOTLIGHT | PETE GABRIEL

Pete Gabriel, with his wife Sandy Gabriel.

Age: 71

Groups: Currently the Boardman Optimist Club and the Ohio District Optimist. I’m a past president and current vice president of the Boardman chapter and lieutenant governor of Optimists’ Zone 5 Ohio District. My job is to assist the Austintown, Boardman, Brookfield, Hartford, Hubbard, New Middletown-Springfield, Youngstown East Suburban Clubs as they contact with each other, the District and Optimist International.

Education: High school in Sunbury, Pa.

What do you like best about living in your town?

I’m not a native of Boardman, but I chose to live here when I uprooted my family from Kansas City and brought them here in 1978. The schools, the quality of living and the people have been a large part of our staying in Boardman through two upgrade moves since we settled here 31 years ago. Go Spartans.

What one thing would you add to your town if money was not an issue?

I would like to see us become a city and have more say-so in our own government. I would direct a lot of money toward promoting the same.

Describe the last community event you went to:

I haven’t had too many opportunities this summer. I did take my grandchildren to the Memorial Day Parade and helped them pick up candy.

If there was a store or business to add to your town, which would you like it to be, and why?

A solid high-tech company that would open the door to other such diversified industries. Companies that would strengthen the backbone of our valley’s economy.

If you could name a street after someone, who would it be?

The Stoops Family. Their involvement with the world of football and the influence they’ve had on so many young people makes them qualified candidates for Stoops Way, Stoops Lane, Avenue of the Stoops.

Where is your favorite place in town to go for a little hide-away time or bite to eat?

There are a few. Sandy and I really enjoy sitting on Rusty’s patio on a warm summer night. Also a small steak and Bloomin’ Onion at Outback and Chicken Diablo at the MVR.

What one place would you direct an outsider to visit to experience your town?

Boardman Park.

Is there a song, book or movie that you hear or see and say “They’re describing me?

I feel a sense of oneness with Shoe and Fred Flintstone.