Bradenton is a Leader in Breast Cancer Awareness Efforts

This month isn't just about fall colors or crisp air. Varous shades of pink are dominating the landscape and the air is filled with opportunuities and education in honor of the 25th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

There are events across the country and Bradenton is not about to be left out with events like scavenger hunts, a scooter raffle, a high-heel-a-thon,  bowling for the breast cancer cure and of course the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

has partnered with five local businesses and the American Cancer Society to help drive awareness throughout the month. The hospital and its partners are hosting a scavenger hunt contest through October 31 at 5 p.m. Check out the hospital's calendar for other events like today's "Mamm and Glamm" from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. You can get a mammogram and also enjoy refreshments, paraffin treatments, and a makeover.

But back to the hunt for prizes with a little education thrown in. The scavenger hunt sends participants to the five local businesses — , , , Yogurt Mountain and Sandbar, Beach House or Mar Vista — to search for questions about breast health. Those who send in a completed form with five correct answers will be entered into a drawing for three prizes, inlcuding the grand prize of a staycation on Anna Maria Island that includes weekend accomodations at the beach, dinner out and activities. The winners will be notified Oct. 31.

On Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon , 11023 Gatewood Drive,will host a High Heel-A-Thon. The event includes a 100 yard walk in women’s shoes with at least a one-inch heel.  The entry fee is $20 in advance and $30 at the door. Participants will receive a free t-shirt and be eligible for prizes.

The event includes a bra decorating contest, so bring your inner artist.  Other activities include chair massages, gift certificates for mammograms, drawings, petting zoo and a bounce house. and Crowder’s Gifts & Gadgets are co-sponsors for the event.

On Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. you will want to change your shoes to participate in the   Bowling for the Breast Cancer Cure fundraising event. For just $15 participants can rent bowling shoes and bowl two games all while contributing to the cure. There will also be a raffle and auction at the event. Register today if you plan to bowl.

And what's not to love about a "Tickled Pink Happy Hour" set for October 18 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Pier 22. Enjoy views of the Manatee River while you sip pink cocktails and nosh on hors d’oeuvres all while donating to a cause. There is a $5 minimum donation cover charge and a raffle with prizes including a cooking class for 2 with and dinner for four. Pier 22 has partnered with Manatee Memorial Hospital and will donate proceeds from the sales of pink drink specials, raffle tickets and the cover cover charge to benefit Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

Of course all of these activities will culminate with the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, Saturday, October 22, at the Sarasota Polo Club. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. and the walk begins at 9 a.m. There is no registration fee and all ages are welcome to participate and help raise funds. And if you don't want to walk, you can sponsor a walker with your pledge.