Menlo Park dentist nets $100,000 for scholars Menlo Park dentist nets $100,000 for scholars (September 22, 2004)

By Jane Knoerle
Almanac Staff Writer

It took him nine years to do it, but it's now "mission accomplished" for Menlo Park dentist Jan Gabus, who recently received a standing ovation at a Kiwanis luncheon from fellow members for raising $100,000 in scholarship money for Menlo-Atherton High School and Eastside Preparatory Academy students.

For several years, Dr. Gabus' "Dollars for Scholars" endeavors involved cycling. Three years ago he switched to hiking. He raises money through pledges from Kiwanis Club members, friends and patients. He has cycled through Oregon rain forests, Big Sky country in Montana and Iowa farmlands.

During the past two years he has joined the Sierra Club on an eight-day backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon, descending 4,200 feet to the North Valley floor, where temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees, then climbing the steep slopes to the South Rim.

Now that he has reached his $100,000 goal, is Dr. Gabus hanging up his cycling togs and hiking boots?

Asked about his plans for next year, he said: "Freddy, my long-suffering wife, feels after nine years it's about time we take a summer vacation together. And she's right. The past nine years have been a great ride. The Kiwanis Club and I appreciate our community support."

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