Letters | 4-2-15

Shooting complex would be boon to economy

I read the excellent letter by Bob Dunn in the March 11 West Hawaii Today who says it well on the ridiculous assumption, by pompous gripers, I will call “jolly do gooders” when in fact a shooting complex would be an asset to the visitor industry and more importantly, is a much-needed facility for the public. As Dunn stated, it is time to put a stop to these “misguided dilatory and injurious tactics” now.

Here are some facts of life to name a few:

1) Shooting, whether hunting or target shooting is a sport — an Olympic sport, at that.

2) Shooting is taught in many schools throughout the U.S. The champions that scholastic shooting has produced over the past years, both in Hilo and Kona, are a fine example.

3) With all the guns owned and recently purchased by the local citizenry in Hawaii, shouldn’t those gun owners have a place to practice the art of shooting — not to mention, have the opportunity to teach their family the proper handling and respect for firearms. After all we do offer to those inclined, soccer fields, tennis courts, hiking trails, etc., and yet offer no place for shooters to practice the complexities of this splendid sport?

Take time to imagine what shooting can and would contribute to the community:

First off, and of upmost importance, is the training. Especially the young who, for some reason, are discouraged from serving their country. These youngsters will be taught how to properly handle firearms and to respect them and not to be blatant about them. If you have not been to a shooting range, let me tell you that shooters are one of the most disciplined and orientated sports groups in existence.

Then imagine a Hawaii state shooting contest/championship being held on the island with people coming from all parts of the state, buying airfare, renting hotel rooms, renting cars and eating out. Now, imagine if it were a national — or even a world — shooting contest. It becomes a Sony-like golf tournament with worldwide coverage. Imagine the American sponsors like Colt and Winchester plus European sponsors like Benelli and Beretta. Think of all the product tables and booths at these events and the residents they would attract along with those other visitors staying at the hotels. Then, what if we land the National Rifle Association convention on the island? What then? Best of all, think of the spouses and where they would like to vacation while “hubby“ does his thing. On our beaches, of course, and in the shops and restaurants while taking time to visit our many other attractions and participating in the likes of ATV tours and ziplines. It is unlimited what could happen but only if those “would-be gurus” get their heads out of the sand. Shooting could be a windfall for all, if one is grown up enough to understand its usefulness and its values.

Hugo von Palten Luder

Holualoa