As we enjoy the warmer temperatures and sunshine I remind everyone to make plans to take advantage of the many activities that will take place throughout Erie County over the next few months. In addition to visiting to one of our county parks, beaches, or golf courses, there are some upcoming special events that I urge you to mark on your calendars.

The Erie County Department of Health will provide two free rabies vaccinations this month for dogs, cats, and ferrets. The first clinic will be held on Wednesday, May 20 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Broadway Market, 999 Broadway St. in Buffalo. The second clinic will take place on Wednesday, May 27 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Erie Community College South, Building 7, 4041 Southwestern Blvd. in Orchard Park.

These clinics, which are one of the most popular services offered by county government, will be conducted in association with the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society, the Medaille College Veterinary Technology Program, and the SPCA Serving Erie County. Tens of thousands of animals have been vaccinated countywide through this service thanks to the efforts of the Health Department’s Rabies, Disease & Vector Control program.

Another free service that will be offered next month is a hazardous household waste drop-off on Saturday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Erie Community College South. The Erie County Department of Environment & Planning, in cooperation with ECC, the Town of Amherst, and Northeast Southtowns Solid Waste Management, will coordinate the event. Open to all county residents, the collection event allows for the safe disposal of hazardous items that can’t be thrown out in your regular garbage, which will help to reduce pollution and potential contamination of groundwater. Items that will be accepted that day include batteries, oil-based paints, pesticides and other hazardous wastes that could pose a danger to children and pets.

Erie County has made a tremendous investment in our parks over the past three years, with more than $12 million being secured for capital improvements to these wonderful resources for recreation and relaxation. We have placed a high priority on enhancing and restoring our county parks so all citizens have access to natural spaces of beauty seven days a week. With an estimated 100,000 acres of property that includes not only public parks, beaches and golf courses but gorgeous natural habitats, conservation areas and designated forestry lots, our ongoing investments will ensure that our park system reminds one of the finest in the state.

Earlier this month I was joined by other elected officials and the American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of NY Buffalo-Erie Chapter to recognized May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. I urge all motorists to be vigilant and on the lookout for smaller vehicles, including motorcycles, to help ensure a safer driving season for everyone.