I write this letter in response to that of Mr. May in the most recent edition of Sun Day. Mr. May purports to take on the recent TR Kerth column on the issue of guns. I find it ironic that while Mr. May questions certain statistics used in the Kerth article (and even claims, at one point to have researched to find them), he has, apparently, not checked his own “facts.” As a Native Swiss and a dual US/Swiss citizen, I know something about Swiss gun possession and use. Mr. May says the “reason” for low Swiss crime is “simple” — i.e. the prominence of guns. To credit any single factor for low crime is, on its face, intellectually flawed, but any argument is made “simple” if you get to make up your own facts, as is the case here.
Facts:
1) Every Swiss household is not required “by law” to have a firearm. Only Military Reserve members are required under terms and limitations of their service.
2) As a practical matter, many Swiss homes do have firearms because Switzerland has Universal Military Service for males age 20-34 and members of this Military Reserve force are required to have their military rifle in their home. Before 2007, each member of the Army Reserve was also issued 50 sealed rounds of ammunition, but that law was changed and the ammunition is now kept at the local military armory, issued only in case of an emergency need. It is no more a “family tradition” to provide training in weaponry, than it is a “law” to require them in all households in the first instance.
3) Moreover, Switzerland’s gun (and ammunition) laws are stricter than those of the US, as certain weapons are forbidden (such as automatic firearms like machine guns and assault rifles) and one can only acquire a weapon acquisition permit upon proof of psychological stability and a clean criminal record, among other things. The permit, itself, is effective for a period of just 5 years before it must be renewed under the same terms.
It’s not my intention to change Mr. May’s mind on guns; that is extremely unlikely — nor is any prolonged exchange of correspondences likely to change mine. Let’s just agree to disagree, except to agree that any reasoned dialogue must be based on real facts, not “simplified” ones…
Hans U. Stucki
Sun City resident
We only moved to Del Webb Sun City Huntley at the end of June, so we are still new residents. We could not be more pleased with how friendly our new neighbors are, on our block & throughout Neighborhood 19. We have enjoyed trying some of the many amenities here, including fitness centers, swimming pools, various classes, and clubs. (We are still learning the Celtic Club Song!) Friendly volunteer residents taught us how to play pickle ball & bocce (note: we still have a LOT to learn!). We watched softball games & enjoyed concerts, dinners, and a neighborhood picnic. We tried two excellent bus trips: to the Madison WI Downtown Art Fair and to a Chicago Architectural River Cruise. Thanks to all the organizers!
So far we’ve attended 1 Sun City Board meeting (and 1 COTW meeting) and are impressed at the dedication & hard work by Board members. Obviously, hours and hours of their time go into the preparation for each meeting. Also impressive are the various volunteer committees that serve as a strong resource for the Board! And the paid staff who maintains and enhances this beautiful community.
Volunteers seem to be the glue that makes Sun City so amazing. We are very happy that we moved to Del Webb Sun City in Huntley. Thank you all!
Linda & Vito Benigno
Each year for the past six years, I have walked for St. Vincent De Paul Friends of the Poor. This was a 5K walk.
I received a total of $1013 from the generous donations of all my friends, family, and neighbors from Huntley and surrounding areas.
So, I would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every one for their donations. Bless you all!
Kitty Rizzo
NB22
