Candidate for
State Representative; District 72; Democratic Party

Business Biography of David S. Gehlman

After graduating from high school in 1979, I had some very important choices to make regarding which direction I wanted my personal life to go. I read several books from leading businessmen and real estate giants during my senior year of high school. I found those to be a major influence on how my future plans would move forward. Another key part of my plan was to find a partner who would understand my goals and also support my ideas and ventures. I thought this would be the toughest part of my plan, but in reality, I didn't have to look that far, as I found that person when I found Marilyn, whom I'm proud to call my wife of seventeen years.

After accepting a position as an ice cream operator with Sani-Dairy in 1981, I quickly learned the ropes. In a very short period of time, I was offered a supervisor position with the company. I owe a lot to Mr. Robert Allen (President) for giving me the opportunity to show my abilities and leadership skills. I went on to accept numerous other positions over the next fourteen years, before turning in my letter of resignation, in order to pursue my dream of being a self-employed businessman and real estate investor. I purchased and sold several real estate projects during the 1980's. In 1989, my wife and I used part of those investments, as we saved to build our dream home, which is located in Upper Yoder Township.

In 1990, while still employed at Sani-Dairy, I convinced my wife to venture out on her own in the hair and beauty industry. We purchased the property at 438 Goucher Street, and this was the start of M&M's Hair Design, Inc. which was our first business venture. During the early 1990's, I went on to build two more spec homes in the Westmont section of Johnstown. I also bought and remodeled several other homes which I sold, for a profit, and helped to build my portfolio.

In 1995, while still employed at Sani-Dairy, I was very fortunate to have an extremely up-front relationship with the company President, Mr. Wilford Young. At that time, I was very understanding and informed of the uncertain future of my career at the dairy, and more so the future of the dairy itself. It was then that I made the decision to look elsewhere, and pursue the challenge to save the failing Johnstown Municipal Golf Course. I promised our city leaders that I could make a complete turn around of the facility. In the spring of 1996, I signed a one year management contract to prove my abilities. One year later, I signed a three year deal, followed by another five year deal. I currently have signed a ten year lease on the property. Prior to signing the ten year lease, I was developing a plan to purchase a commercial property and build my next venture. In the fall of 2004, I purchased and built the Roxberry Creamery.

With the continued success of the Creamery, my future plans are to expand to more locations here in the Laurel Highlands. I have also been approached by a non-profit corporation to spearhead and consult on the development of an eighteen hole golf community, with over two hundred home sites, which will be built on two hundred fifty acres.

I credit most of my success to my wife for believing in our dreams. I also credit all of our family, friends, and business people who have helped me in my choices and decisions.