10/09/08

Buy a pumpkin to support literacy

by Beckye Randall

2-year-old Nolan Randall of Stanwood checks out the high-tech measurement tool at the Rotary's 2007 Pumpkins for Literacy at Smokey Point Plant Farm.

The Marysville Noon Rotary’s popular fundraiser, Pumpkins for Literacy, is open once again at the Smokey Point Plant Farm, just south of exit 206 on Twin Lakes Avenue. The organization hopes to top last year’s sales of more than 200,000 pounds of future jack o’lanterns between now and October 31.

The colorful pumpkin patch, which is free to the public, also features a bouncy house, rides on a miniature railroad, hayrides and a story barn. Concessions, including hot cocoa and cider, are available at minimal prices.

Wheelbarrows are provided for customers to pick out the perfect pumpkin—or pumpkins—for fall decorations and those mouth-watering pies. With lots of room for young ones to run and play, the pumpkin patch is a great family outing on a sunny autumn day.

Money raised by the pumpkin sale funds the Rotary’s commitment to literacy, enabling the nonprofit community service group to donate more than $150,000 toward the purchase of books in the Marysville, Arlington and Lakewood school districts since the program began.

For the past two years, in addition to a cash grant to the schools, Rotarians have also provided each third grade student in the three districts with a personal hardbound dictionary.

After picking out the perfect pumpkin, visitors can stroll through the Smokey Point Plant Farm to find hardy fall plants in stock.

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