Regarding the photo of the young man “taking flight” on his four-wheeler on the front page of the June 30 Sun Journal, what is wrong with this picture?

It depicts dangerous and irresponsible use of the machine rather than innocent fun on a hot summer day. Did it relate to a sanctioned ATV rally or obstacle course event? I don’t think so. It seemed only to highlight the week’s weather on the back page.

Local ATV clubs are working very hard at promoting safe and responsible riding, use of proper safety gear and respect for private property of land owners who allow trails through their property. Law enforcement agencies are doing their best to curb excessive speed, reckless conduct and alcohol use by these riders. There have been several bills in the Legislature trying to address safety, age limits of riders and misuse of trails by these machines.

Riding ATV’s can be a fun and safe family activity, and I feel the Sun Journal was wrong to show one being used in such a dangerous fashion. There are many other safe outdoor activities for a hot summer day that could have been pictured as a lead to the local weather.

Where will this photographer be when this young man or another young man or woman misjudges this maneuver and crashes into trees or rocks or flips over and lands on the ground pinned under their machine? Will that tragedy be condensed by into a news article in the B Section that is half the size of the June 30 picture?

Linda Farwell, Phillips

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