Tarik brought two of his architecture students to share the finer points of carving a pumpkin and to promote the school's upcoming annual Pumpkin Carving Competition. The event is expected to bring at least 5,000 people to see the more than 500 pumpkins that will be carved. This is a fantastic way to spend Halloween. Take your family or “special spook” and go see the pumpkins and take the family out to one of our terrific restaurants in Auburn.

Tips for carving your pumpkin this week:

• A carving kit can be purchased at Wal-Mart for less than $5. It has little saws for carving details.

• You can draw your design on paper first, then use push pins and attach to the pumpkin. Make small pinholes through the paper, outlining your design. Remove paper and carve like crazy!

• Turn your pumpkin on the side and use the stem as a nose for fun.

• After carving, soak your pumpkin in a bathtub of water for an hour and it will last much longer because it will absorb more moisture.

• Use a flashlight instead of candle to backlight your pumpkin. It gives a better glow. Also use colored tissue paper inside for back lighting if you want to add color.