Pumpkin patch opens

The congregation of the Jackson United Methodist Church, 68 Bennetts Mills Road, Jackson, has opened its first “Pumpkin Patch.” The pumpkin patch opened Oct. 14 and will be open every day through Oct. 31, with workers of all ages sharing in the work of the pumpkin patch. Saturdays will be “Family Fun Days” in the patch, with activities planned for children of all ages. There will be face painting, cookie decorating, clowns, horses, story time and singing, games to play and crafts to make. There will also be an assortment of baked goods available for purchase, as well as cornstalks, gourds and Indian corn.

The purpose of the pumpkin patch is to help communities near and far. Pump-kins are raised on a Navaho reservation in New Mexico, providing employment for persons there. The profits on the church’s end will be divided equally between the Jackson Food Pantry (which helps local families through difficult times) and the United Methodist World Service Fund (which supports mission work around the world – schools, health clinics, agricultural projects, in more than 100 countries). The congregation hopes to make this an annual tradition. Details: (732) 833-8808.

Vendors being sought

Elms Elementary School in Jackson is seeking vendors for its Winter Won-derland planned for Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost for a 10-foot long space is $20. The day will consist of a Santa shop, crafts for children, visits with Santa, holiday decorations, bake sale and more. Details: (732) 833-9103.