Historical December 1997 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
Rosedale Neighborhood Association held its first annual Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest on October 30. Nine families entered the competition, each displaying their lit jack o-lanterns for the enjoyment of neighbors and scrutiny of the Rosedale Executive Committee. First prize was awarded to Joan Bender of the 6100 block of Kingsbury, who created a grinning, gap-toothed witch decked out with peaked hat, cape and broom. Upon acceptance of her certificate, Bender announced that she will devote the entire $100.00 prize to neighborhood beautification projects. Second place honors went to Gary and Patrick Kattner, also of the 6100 block of Kinsgbury, who designed two pumpkin figures.
The Kattners hoped to evoke the historical perspective of spirits walking abroad on All Hallows Eve, and based one of their carvings on a 1937 painting by Picasso. Dick and Belynda Hereford of the 6100 block of McPherson were awarded third prize for their intricately carved lantern that combined several traditional Halloween motifs.
The judges wish to express their admiration and appreciation to all the other talented participants: John and Jane Cross, Dee and Gary Hayes, Paul and Nancy Hohman, Claire and Pete Holohan, Alexander Listrom, and Britney Underwood. Their pumpkin creations depicted a range of imaginative subjects including mustachioed gentlemen, an earring-adorned totem visage, vampires, skeletons, and stately architectural forms.
Original photograph caption
Joan Bender’s first-prize pumpkin witch. Photographer not credited.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, December 1997.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times1997_12.pdf, printed page(s) 7; PDF page(s) 7.
