News from Assemblyman 130th Assembly District JOSEPH A. ERRIGO   For immediate release: November 7th, 2005 Contact: Adam Peterson (585) 334-5210 District Office: 3045 East Henrietta Rd., Henrietta, NY  14467 Albany Office: Rm 427 LOB, Albany, NY  12248

COLUMN FOR THE WEEK OF 11/7/05 BY ASSEMBLYMAN JOE ERRIGO TIPS TO MAKE HUNTING SEASON ENJOYABLE, SUCCESSFUL - AND SAFE        Regular big game season is just days away. Thousands of sports enthusiasts will take to the woods and fields of Western New York. Many hunters will be eager youngsters going out for the first time. It's up to adults to teach them how to safely pursue their sport.      One thing to remember when taking to the fields is to always wear hunter orange apparel. Hunters who wear camouflage clothing during shotgun and rifle season make themselves potential targets for errant shots, or they can be mistaken for the very game they're hunting. The more orange clothing worn by hunters, the better. Jackets, pants, hats and coveralls are available at sporting good stores.      Always be sure of your target. Is it a deer or a hunter who is not wearing orange in your sights? It is crucial for both a successful hunt and the safety of those in the woods to be sure of your target and everything beyond it. Many tragic accidents could be prevented if targets are verified by hunters.      Many farmers and landowners are more than happy to oblige hunters who want to hunt on their properties. But don't trespass; take the time to ask property owners for permission to hunt on their land before the season starts. The less time you spend scouting for a place to spend your day means more time to spend on the hunt.      Finally, hunting can be one of the richest and most rewarding experiences people of all ages can have, especially in beautiful Western New York. So please be sure to leave nature as you found it. All too often, time spent in the wilderness is ruined by finding someone else's garbage on a trail or in a gully. Give others the same courtesy that you would like. Remember, pick up after yourself.      Above all else, please be sure to have a safe and enjoyable hunting season. Help pass down our tradition to this generation of youngsters and the next. As a lifelong sportsman, I have always enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. Good luck, and I'll see you in the field!                                                                                                            -30-