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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Many cyclists own big wheels

Too many times I have read letters to the editor from people complaining about cyclists not paying their share of taxes and have no right being on the roads. The letter from Stan Wright (June 19) was the last straw. When you see a person on a bike on the roadways they are not likely to be some 10-year-old kid. When our groups go for training/fun rides there is a good chance you will have this mix of professions in our pack: a helicopter nurse or neurosurgeon that may save your life someday, a professional business owner, a firefighter that you depend on to save your home, a policeman or state trooper, TV anchor personalities. The list goes on.

But wait, Mr. Wright says we don’t pay taxes. Be assured we most likely pay more taxes than he does. Most of us have two or three cars; we just choose to ride our bikes sometimes, and heaven forbid we slow his car down for a few minutes. Take a deep breath, Mr. Wright, relax, enjoy life, and until they name a road after you because you paid for it I will enjoy my time on my bike.

Alex Renner

Spokane

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