Creative pumpkin carvers aid leukemia patients

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Few people are really good with knives.

Julia Child comes to mind.

And Martin Yan of another PBS cooking show, “Yan Can Cook.”

But Pearl Sushi Lounge & Bomber Bar is raising the stakes this week as it invites guests to carve pumpkins and drink at the same time. For the second year in a row, the Old Town Scottsdale bar is hosting its Pinot and Pumpkin Carve Off, this time to benefit children fighting leukemia.

The fun started Tuesday and runs through Saturday, from 4 p.m. to close. For $15, guests get a pumpkin, two glasses of Pinot Grigio or Pinot Noir, and all the tools necessary to create a really great gourd. Last year, the contest attracted more than 50 people who felt confident mixing sharp utensils and liquor.

This year's most creative carver will win a framed, limited edition print from Stuart Black, worth more than $750, from the Pangea Gallery on Marshall Way. Other prizes include a Baltic amber necklace worth $100, also from Pangea, and gift certificates to the restaurant.

All of the money raised will go to two families in Scottsdale with children fighting leukemia to help cover health-care expenses.

Details: Pearl Sushi, 4252 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, 480-94 7327