YEAR IN PICTURES: October, 2011

Kindergartner Connor Loukota took a much-needed break from all of the fun and games during Hunsader Farms' 20th annual Pumpkin Festival. Published Oct. 27, 2011.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott's visit to The Observer Group prompted discussion on economic growth, the importance of jobs and Scott’s intention to reduce state taxes. Published Oct. 13, 2011.

Lakewood Ranch High School's first graduating class, the Class of 2001, celebrated its 10-year reunion this year. Published Oct. 6, 2011.

Twin sisters Gracie and Hailey Marston dressed as Siamese twins for Lakewood Ranch’s annual Boo Fest Oct. 28. Published Nov. 3, 2011.

Long Island Johnnie performed at Lakewood Ranch’s first International Beer Festival Oct. 29. Published Nov. 3, 2011.

Shawn Troxel and Tony Cordero, owners of Dimensions of Fear Productions, doing business as Twisted Woods, built the East County’s first professional haunted attraction. Published Oct. 27, 2011.

Michael Pulawski and Veronica Colombaro were crowned Braden River High School’s 2011 Homecoming King and Queen. Published Oct. 20, 2011.

Lakewood Ranch students enjoyed hanging out in front of a bonfire Oct. 6 as part of the school’s Homecoming festivities. Published Oct. 13, 2011.

Don O'Leary, with his wife, Audrey, was the recipient of the Sandies Award for 2011 Citizen of the Year. The awards are a partnership between the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance and The Observer Group. Published Oct. 13, 2011.