A person near and dear to my heart attended last Friday’s annual Homecoming game, and as always, brought a smile to my face. Gary Brelsford, who was and remains my favorite school bus driver in the whole world, visited Stanley T. Schuyler Memorial Stadium along with wife Ann, to witness their grand-daughter Madesyn participate in Homecoming ceremonies.

I mention Gary because for all of my childhood, he was the assigned driver for bus number 7-my bus. And in 2010, he had the courage to hire me as a school bus driver for the Muncy School District, a decision I often speculate he may have regretted from time to time.

I also mention Gary because this week is National School Bus Safety Week, and I believe not enough attention is given to this annual observance. This week we’ve published some tips on what parents should teach their children in regards to riding the school bus, as well as motorists who share the road with bus transporters.

There are 180 days in a school year, and buses are typically driven twice a day. During my four-year career as a certified bus driver, never did I experience a day when motorists obeyed the laws in regards to school buses. Very few attempts are successful in legally charging those drivers who blow past the flashing red lights and extended stop sign arm. It is my hope that in publishing these tips, more attention is paid to adhering to the law while informing the public of bus safety awareness.

Autumn weather has definitely arrived, and with it, the accumulation of falling leaves. Leaf collection season begins in Muncy Borough on Monday, Oct. 28 and continues for approximately five weeks, or until measurable snow arrives. Leaves should be placed between the curb and sidewalk, readily accessible for collection equipment and personnel. Residents are reminded not to rake leaves into the street, nor incude debris such as bricks, rocks, sticks, etc. in the leaf piles. Should you choose to bag the leaves, do not tie the bags closed. If possible, cover leaves with a tarp to prevent wind intervention.

Looking for a scary good time as Halloween approaches? The Pennsdale haunted barn returns on Saturday-Oct. 26, beginning at 7 p.m. and ending at 11 p.m. The event is located at 261 Village Road, and is a fundraiser for the Pennsdale Volunteer Fire Company.

Friday, Oct. 25-Muncy varsity football plays at Schuyler Stadium against Hughesville, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 26-Monster Dash 5k Run/Walk, 9:30 a.m., kicks off at Ward L. Myers Elementary School.

Saturday, Oct. 26-Used book fundraiser at the Muncy Library, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 26-7 p.m., 602 South Market Street, Muncy, Don Moen and Lenny LeBlanc will be performing their most popular Gospel songs. The event is free and hosted by both Moreland Baptist Church and First United Methodist Church.

Thursday, Oct. 31-Halloween parade forms at 5 p.m. in the parking lot behind Unity Mart, North Main Street, and launches at 5:30 p.m. Parade route marches south on Main Street to West Penn Street, ending at the high school. Trick or treat hours are 6-8 p.m. Please turn your porch light on if you are handing out treats.

Son Light House, Senior food distribution, 130 Carpenter Street, Muncy, first and third Wednesdays, 8:30-noon and first and third Thursdays, 4 to 7 p.m. Donation hours are every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday, 7-10 a.m., food, clean usable seasonable clothing, toys, and furniture only at this time.

Thursday, Nov. 7 and Nov. 9-Ars Nova presents the drama, ANON(ymous) beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets available at the door.

Saturday, Nov. 9-Annual Craft Show at the high school, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 10-Ars Nova presents the drama, ANON(ymous) beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets available at the door.