Orthodontist to trade bike for food

A can of food for a chance at a specialized moutain bike.

That's the offer Carson orthodontist John Coombs is making this summer.

Each can is worth one ticket when brought to his office at 525 W. Washington St. during normal office hours. The last tickets will be offered on July 31, and the drawing will be held the next day.

The food is distributed to various organizations according to need, but Coombs expects this years' cache will probably go to Friends in Service Helping. Coombs emphasized that he prefers organizations that contribute directly to the community, and FISH does that.

Supported totally by local contributions, this private nonprofit organization distributes food baskets to about 500 families daily, as well as providing meals for 75-100 people in their free dining room, according to executive director Monte Fast.

Coombs used to conduct his drive at Christmas time but with so many food drives then, he felt his got lost in the shuffle.

"We get a great response in the summer, as opposed to Christmas," Coombs said, noting that the raffle has been a great way to support local organizations when food supplies in local banks are often low. The bike encourages the kids, (and adults) to bring in those cans, and summer is a great time to win a new bike.

He's in a position to know.

He started riding bikes as part of a therapy regimen after a knee injury, then continued for the fun and physical workout. He now rides about 50-60 miles per week, and over the years has competed in the Silver Century and Markleeville Death Ride.

Coombs noted that Carson City has been a great place to practice and raise his children. The support he received from the community left him with a desire to give something back.

"We love it here," Coombs said. "We support many teams, such as soccer, but that doesn't reach the disadvantaged sector. They are just as much a part of the community as any other."

A graduate of Northwestern University in Chicago, Coombs attended dental school at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

He has been a practicing orthodonist in Carson City for 27 year.