Brookfield, Wis. — Every October, the staff at PHM Orthodontists look forward to a friendly competition that brings a touch of autumn creativity to the workplace. This year, the spotlight fell on Therese Whitty, a veteran manager with a background in graphic design, whose Brewers‑themed pumpkin carving has become the talk of the office.
Four Hours, Two Pumpkins, One Winning Idea
Whitty spent roughly four hours carving two separate pumpkins to represent the Milwaukee Brewers’ iconic ball and glove. The ball pumpkin required a careful search for a small, round specimen, while the glove pumpkin was fashioned from a larger gourd and finished with painted, weathered details and a lace trim that adds a whimsical touch.
“I’m usually using clay carving, sculpting tools – anything that makes sense. I used a full‑out saw at one point, a spoon to hollow everything out,” Whitty explained. “I just close my eyes and wake up a couple hours later and there’s something sitting in front of me. I start with a full pumpkin and hollow it out for the most part, then I start chiseling away.”
Office Tradition and Expanding Categories
The annual pumpkin contest is a beloved tradition at PHM Orthodontists, where clients and staff vote for their favorite creation. Whitty’s coworkers joke that they never stand a chance against her meticulous work, noting her unbeaten streak in the competition.
In response to growing interest, the contest has broadened its categories to include “spookiest” and “best theme,” giving other participants a chance to shine. Nonetheless, Whitty’s Brewers tribute remains a fan favorite, especially as the team celebrates the Brewers’ recent World Series appearance.
Community Roots and Personal Touch
Beyond her artistic flair, Whitty has been a steady presence at PHM Orthodontists for the past 12 years, bringing both managerial expertise and a creative eye to the practice. Her dedication to the community extends beyond the office, as she often shares her pumpkin designs on social media, inspiring fellow Brookfield residents to join in the seasonal festivities.
Clients who vote in the contest appreciate the personal touch that Whitty’s pumpkins add to their orthodontic experience. “It’s fun to see something so creative in a place where we usually think about braces,” one client remarked.
Looking Ahead
As the autumn season continues, the office pumpkin contest promises more artistic entries and friendly rivalry. Whitty’s success underscores how local traditions can bring coworkers together, celebrate regional pride, and add a splash of seasonal color to everyday work life.
For more stories about Brookfield’s vibrant community events, stay tuned to HyperLocal Loop.
Original reporting: FOX6 WITI – local news — read the source article.