October 16, 2012 > Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere A sure sign of fall is an abundance of pumpkins wherever the eye wanders. These rounded orange squash evoke thoughts of harvest, carved and lighted Halloween Jack o'lanterns and tasty pies. Where fields and orchards were once prevalent in the greater Tri-City area, few remain, but among them is J.E. Perry Farms at Ardenwood in Fremont, where a pumpkin patch is open next to the working "organic" farm that produces them. One of the premiere family fun activities during fall festivities is the pumpkin painting contest at Shinn Park in Fremont. Mission Peak Heritage Foundation invites everyone to this family event, held this year on Sunday, October 21. Paint Your Pumpkin will feature free children's games including a pumpkin walk and a bean bag toss with prizes. Visitors can purchase a 12-inch to 18-inch diameter freshly harvested pumpkin for $2 and, using a permanent marker, make a design that is scary, funny or pretty to win a ribbon. Judging will be in three age ranges: 0-6, 7-12, and 13-adult. Docents in period clothing will be present to give tours of the historic, 1876, James and Lucy Shinn House. This is a good opportunity to tour the house and actively learn about the heritage of our area. Tours are fun for the whole family; everyone will find something to admire, enjoy and learn. Bring your camera and take pictures of the grounds, the house and even inside the house with flash. This is a fund raising event to maintain and enhance this beautiful old house. Hotdogs, nachos, popcorn, cookies, soda and water will be available for sale at this event. Tours of Shinn House are $5.00 for adults and $2.50 for children 5-12. Paint Your Pumpkin Sunday, Oct 21 12 Noon - 4 p.m. (Judging at 2 p.m.) Shinn Park 1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont (510) 795-0891