This event started as a random, simple idea last year. Carve 1000 pumpkins and light them up at Westport’s village harbor overlooking the Rideau Lake. This year, event organizers John and Cynthia Pringle say they will double the number of jack o’ lanterns on display to 2000.

The seasonal gourds will be carved Saturday Oct 30th and transported to Westport’s harbour where they will illuminate the shores of the Upper Rideau Lake at dusk. When they run out of room on ‘waterfront’, the pumpkins will line Westport’s main street, say the Westport entrepreneurs.

“It’s all about spreading good vibes, plus it’s a great way to raise money for the Children’s Wish Foundation,” says John Pringle.

“Pumpkin Central” is in front of the Cottage Coffee store in downtown Westport. Starting at 8:00 am, volunteers will carve the 2,000 jack o’ lanterns.

“We’re really going to need some help carving this many pumpkins,” says Cynthia Pringle, adding that “donations can be made by sponsoring a pumpkin and dedicating it to someone special. The great thing is that we’ll do all the work. Just sponsor a pumpkin and then come and enjoy!”

John and Cynthia say that this year’s event is being dedicated to RAP volunteer Julie Sanders who lost her battle with cancer earlier this year. “Julie was so excited to take part in last year’s event even though her health was diminishing. Her optimism shone brightly,” noted John.

For information contact Random Act of Pumpkins event organizers John and Cynthia Pringle – Life is Good Genuine Neighborhood Shoppes @ 613-273-8292

Come and help us meet this challenge to donate 1,000 Bottles of Hope to our regional cancer centers.

Creating Hope sessions are ongoing, tomorrow (September 14) also from 7 to 9 pm at Artemisia, 7 Spring Street.

Georgia, our polymer clay artist, has initiated a campaign to challenge the town of Westport and area to make and donate 1,000 Bottles of Hope between now and May, 2011. Polymer clay artists the world over make and donate these bottles to local cancer treatment centers. They are given to patients with a wish and a hope for successful treatment and full recovery.

Westport, can we do this????? Please call Artemisia for more information and details.

The shindig, sponsored by the Westport Arts Council, will fill the North Crosby Community Hall, with live music by String Tease. There will be a silent auction, lots of good folks, and plenty of food.

Freewill donations will be gratefully accepted. Everyone (of every age) is welcome.