The first day of fall brings the “Orange Glow” to Saugus Center

By Tara Vocino

According to First Congregational Church-UCC Rev. Bill Ladd, people travel from out of state to go pumpkin picking in downtown Saugus.

“In its 21st year, we are part of their family tradition,” Ladd said. “No one leaves the patch with a frown – it’s a transformative thing.”

Approximately 3,500 pumpkins were delivered by driver Adrian Hinojosa, of Pumpkin Patch U.S.A., who traveled from Tucson, Arizona. The church has a profit-sharing arrangement with the Navajo Reservation. Hinojosa said seeing the community come together is great, like “Small Town America.” He helped to unload pallets.

Approximately 100 people from the community helped out, including Saugus Pop Warner Crusaders football player Luke Porrazzo, who liked carrying the colorful ones down an assembly line with other volunteers. “I like the teamwork,” Luke Porrazzo said. His mother, Stephanie, said he was excited to help today.

Ladd said he can’t wait to hear the stories of what the pumpkins mean to so many people.

Selectman Corinne Riley said Saturday was the official start of the fall. “They’re great to look at,” Riley said. “It’s a great thing that they do for fundraising.”

Board of Selectmen Vice Chair Debra Panetta said everyone knows where the “Pumpkin Church” is. “It’s great to have a pumpkin patch in the center of town,” Panetta said.

Ladd said another batch of pumpkins, totaling 2,500, which are all different colors and sizes, will arrive in two weeks. Pumpkins will be on sale through Halloween (Oct. 31) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Hamilton Street, facing Town Hall.

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