Donning their Halloween costumes, children at McNeal Elementary School gathered Oct. 21 with their families in the school's cafeteria for a Costume Ball. Attendees enjoyed pizza and ice cream, dancing and a costume contest, among other activities.

The Historical Society's Pioneer Day Fish Fry begged the question: Grouper or Mullet? But pioneers and other Longboat Key Residents seemed to enjoy both equally on Friday, Oct. 21 at Mar Vista. Mar Vista served the seafood along with other southern comfort foods: fried green tomatoes, okra and cheese grits.

St. Boniface and the Siesta Key/Greater Sarasota Republican Club enjoyed an evening full of bratwurst, pork tenderloin, apple strudel, beer and live German music Friday, Oct. 21, at St. Boniface's.

East County residents gathered Oct. 21 at the Lakewood Ranch YMCA for the Y's annual Fall Festival event. Children and their families enjoyed carnival-style games, music and other festivities.

The Beneva Animal Hospital held an open house and surprise birthday and anniversary party on for Dr. Janet Whitlock, Thursday, Oct. 20 at the hospital. Whitlock has been the owner and main veterinarian at the facility for 30 years.

Members of the Lakewood Ranch Women's Club enjoyed an afternoon of socializing and shopping during the club's fifth annual Bazaar, Boutique and Luncheon Oct. 19 at Fete Ballroom at the Polo Grill and Bar. Guests enjoyed perusing the various boutiques and vendors who were displaying a variety of items, including quilts, light boys, children's toys, scrapbooking accessories, handmade doll clothes, plants, jewelry and more, before sitting down to lunch.

These doves found a comfy perch on Lakewood Ranch Main Street today.

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Bradenton on Oct. 15 hosted a fundraiser.

One hundred and twelve people enjoyed lots of wind with their wine at the Longboat Key Garden Club wine tasting fundraiser at Harry's Continental Kitchen. But that didn't stop the group from raising $465 on Wednesday, Oct. 19. Harry's Continental Kitchens supported the event with food and appetizers, and Howie Banfield provided entertainment.

The Braden River and Lakewood Ranch High boys and girls swim teams hit the pool for the 2011 Manatee County Championships this afternoon and G.T. Bray.

Andy Youngs and Gail Buermann preview the St. Mary, Star of the Sea, Catholic Church Christmas Bazaar, which will take place on Nov. 19.