Doug Gabelmann - 1996 Ottawa-Carleton Cyclists' Advocate of the Year

Although Doug Gabelmann is the very busy co-owner and operator of a local business, he has always made time to work for better cycling in Ottawa. Since 1994, Doug has been CfSC's official representative on the City of Ottawa Cycling Advisory Group (OCAG). During that time he steadfastly worked for the interests of cyclists. He met with and made presentations to city councillors to ensure they were aware of cycling problems and opportunities. He helped CfSC and OCAG campaign for funds in the city budget each year to implement the Comprehensive Cycling Plan (CCP) so these cycling problems could be fixed. Then he worked on the volunteer committee that monitored the progress on the CCP, to make sure the budgeted funds were actually and effectively used to improve cycling. And finally, Doug made noise when that money wasn't actually being spent.

And that wasn't enough for Doug! Doug has also been a volunteer in CfSC's information booths and participated in CfSC's online discussions. He has written regular columns for CfSC's newsletter, Chain Mail, and is a founding and active member of the "One more bike" bike theft prevention task force. Most recently, Doug was an organizer of CfSC's first Ride for Cycling, the only fund-raiser ride for better and safer cycling in our region. He put the support of his business behind the Ride as a major sponsor, and his business has been one of the most dependable supporters of activities to promote better cycling in Ottawa.

On top of all his contributions to cycling, Doug has been active in his own community, organizing a fight against the closure of the local swimming pool and developing opportunities for new recreational facilities. Living by example, Doug and his wife are raising a family of two young girls without a car... but all are proficient and regular cyclists.

For his many contributions Doug was the deserving recipient of The Ottawa-Carleton Cyclists' Advocate Award at the 1996 CfSC Annual General Meeting. Thank you, Doug!