Aliens are among us [Times photo: Kevin White] Tony Guiler, 8, right, keeps an eye in the mirror on Josh Gambrel, 12, who is checking out the action on his bleeding alien face. The boys were helping to set up the 11th annual Haunted Halloween Bash, sponsored by the Hernando County Recreation Department Community Activity Center. Get your thrills -- and chills Halloween events include non-scary festivals and, more commonly, frightening gatherings.

2 lame ducks to take free trip
With two outgoing commissioners attending, the county could end up paying the way for as many as seven at a three-day conference in Tallahassee.

Good samaritan loses special watch
A commercial truck driver left his watch, a memento from his deceased father, in the trunk of a woman's car whose tire he was changing.

HMO firm plans seminars to explain coverages
With two HMO companies pulling out and new ones coming in, seniors are anxious for information and to sign up for a new plan.

Schools need comparative religion course
Editor: Re: Bible study in Hernando County schools:

Andrews, Kroner, Martin best choices for fire district
Even when things are going well at the Spring Hill Fire Rescue District, somebody finds something to complain about.

Hernando briefs
Inmate group files lawsuits against jail

Blind-sided
In the thriller Wait Until Dark, a blind woman levels the playing field by turning off the lights after she stumbles into a dangerous drug scheme.

Pianist is guild's first performer
Mac Frampton, who will perform classical and Broadway melodies Saturday night, is a favorite of guild audiences.