Reader sounds off on squirrel feeding column
Idon't wish to continue the "feeding squirrels, birds and other rodents" debate any longer than necessary, but the "Ocean View" editorial by Patricia A. Miller deserves a rebuttal by me.

The problem I have and perhaps you have but don't realize it, are the OTHER RODENTS feeding on flower seeds, cracked corn and peanuts that you so proudly state that you will continue doing. That's fine for you to act as Mother Nature, but when the mice and rats start appearing, then what?

The article that appeared in the Nov. 1 edition of the Brick Bulletin mentioned that I spoke about my new neighbor feeding squirrels and birds, BUT left out the most important fact that put me over the edge, and why I spoke out against the feedings. I directed my remark toward Mr. Toth during the council meeting being that he was a feeder of squirrels and birds and seemed to make a joke out of the amendment. I told him to shine a spotlight or any type of bright light on the spot where you scatter the feed and see what other type of rodents are eating the feed at night. After you discover MICE and RATS are feeding there, then what are you going to do?

I mentioned during my talk that one night when my wife and I arrived home from Atlantic City at 2 a.m., as I entered my driveway I saw on the left side of the driveway where my neighbor feeds the squirrels and birds and the feed lands on my property, there they were- MICE having a feast on the feed. Do you really think that anyone would stand for this? NOT ME!

One last fact that I forgot to mention, my new neighbor has five bird feeders, two bird houses, one bird bath and now a new 7-foot three-tray squirrel feeder all located 20 to 30 feet from my side door. And I shouldn't be mad. Give me a break!

So continue feeding the RODENTS and birds and when they enter your house- need I say more!!! And pay the fines associated with this new amendment if you continue this feeding practice because I hope your neighbors report you after reading what type of rodents eat the feed you scatter.

ALSO, as a 30-year resident of Brick, I don't need your wiseguy remark about moving back to the paved-over city. This town is made up of former paved-over residents. Save it for another person. This comment is in poor taste by a managing editor and deserves an apology to all former pavedover city residents.

Alexander G. De Palma

Brick