Memorial ride to raise money for YMCA cancer program

THE CITIZENS’ VOICE FILE
Tom Jones at Around Town Bikes in downtown Wilkes-Barre

Tom Jones had a phrase to describe the winding roads of Northeast Pennsylvania that he loved to bike: “Schnick schnack.”

The second Schnick Schnack — Tom Jones Memorial Benefit Ride takes its name from Jones’ creative description.

The ride honors Jones, who owned Around Town Bikes in downtown Wilkes-Barre before he passed away in August 2017.

He brought a wealth of knowledge to his business, said David Bass, one of the ride organizers. Jones had worked for Giant, a major bicycle manufacturer, and raced competitively.

“He knew how to build bikes, ride bikes, race bikes, buy bikes. He knew all about that business,” Bass said.

The ride will benefit the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, which offers cancer survivors free or low-cost gym membership and exercise regimens. Instructors are trained in cancer survivorship, post-rehabilitation exercise and supportive cancer care.

The event lets riders choose among several options: a 32-mile road ride, a 35-mile ride that includes 15 miles of gravel or a 15-mile loop.

The different options are meant to appeal to different tastes, Bass said. Some cyclists are still on their road bikes, others are more interested in going offroad on mountain bikes and a shorter loop opens the ride to families or people who want a shorter ride.

Registration for the event is scheduled to end at 11 p.m. Wednesday.

Visit bikereg.com/43983 to register. The event costs $40 and includes post ride food and music.

If you go

What: Second “Schnick Schnack” Tom Jones Memorial Benefit Ride
When: Oct. 6. The 32- and 35-mile rides begin at 10 a.m. The 15-mile ride begins at 11 a.m. Post-ride music and food is scheduled for 12:30 p.m.
Where: All rides begin at the Thornhurst Volunteer Fire Company, 125 Buck River Road
Details: Visit bikereg.com/43983 to register. The event costs $40 and includes post ride food and music.