Nearly every day that I open my Herald, I read that there have been more shootings. If the shooter’s background is given, lack of family teaching can and should be assumed.

When I was growing up in Miami in the 1920s and 30s, shootings were a rarity. Why the change? Some say its because there are more guns. Not true.

Before WWII, the Japanese planned an invasion of our West Coast. The plan was scrapped when one of the planners pointed out, “There are more deer hunters with guns in one state than our total armed forces.” The plan was changed, thus Pearl Harbor.

I used to ride my bike down Seventh Avenue for seven miles (with a shotgun tied across the handle bars) No one ever objected. Every family I knew had guns. And I was taught gun safety by the family.

More importantly, honesty, household chores, respect for the elderly and all humans were taught. Mama was governed by her religion. I don’t think any of today’s shooters had this kind of training.

Background of criminals never seems to be revealed by the news media.

Until we reestablish family values, expect no improvement.