I started reading American Journal when Harry Foote bought it and became its publisher. I’d be less than honest if I didn’t say I was disappointed with “Baiting bear cruel” letter accepted from Edison, N.J., plus the editorial, On Question 1 we say yes, ban bearbaiting.

By now it’s common knowledge Maine and New Jersey have serious bear problems, plus New Jersey had a recent and tragic 22-year-old victim of a fatal bear attack.

Last fall, downtown Westbrook experienced wild black bear as reported in the A.J. A local bank employee was an eyewitness. This spring, while scouting wild turkeys at daybreak, I saw three going across fields between William Clarke Drive and Westbrook Street.

As a lad, in 1940s and ’50s, black bear weren’t a protected game animal. In fact, they were considered a pest and carried a $15 bounty. To Department of I.F.&W credit, laws and rules and seasons were established to control and manage black bear as a game animal.

Due to our dense underbrush and forests, hunting isn’t as effective as bait. Dog and trap methods, controlled and overseen by game wardens and game biologists, control and safely manage the largest black bear population in the lower 48 states.

I trust and respect these professionals to keep us safe. I don’t trust outside influence nor fat checkbook of the Human Society of the United States.

Not if, but when, a bear or bears come calling at your home, who will you call for help?

John Bernard,

Portland (retired Portland science coordinator and teacher)