As autumn settles over Grand Rapids, the FOX 17 Morning News team embraced a beloved seasonal tradition by staging a friendly pumpkin‑carving contest. Janice, Andy and Kara—three of the station’s on‑air personalities—each selected an unlit pumpkin and set to work creating their own version of the classic “Jack‑o‑lantern.”
Local tradition, national roots
The practice of carving pumpkins dates back to Europe, where an Irish legend about a man known as “Stingy Jack” gave rise to the glowing lanterns we now associate with Halloween. While the story’s origins are centuries old, the simple act of scooping out a pumpkin and carving a face remains a popular way for families and friends to mark the season.
For the morning crew, the competition was less about winning and more about fostering a sense of community among viewers. “We wanted to bring a little fun to our audience and give them something to look forward to each year,” said Janice, one of the participants. “It’s a chance to show a different side of ourselves beyond the news desk.”
How the contest unfolded
Each participant received a medium‑sized pumpkin, a set of carving tools and a brief window of time to shape their design. Andy opted for a classic grinning face, complete with jagged teeth, while Kara chose a more whimsical approach, carving a smiling cat perched atop the pumpkin’s rim. Janice went for a traditional lantern look, emphasizing bold, symmetrical features.
The crew filmed the entire process, allowing viewers to watch the progress in real time. At the end of the segment, a short video montage displayed each finished pumpkin, inviting the audience to cast their vote for the top design via the station’s website.
Viewer participation
Audience engagement is a cornerstone of the station’s local focus. By letting viewers vote, the morning team not only highlighted a seasonal activity but also reinforced the idea that community members can take an active role in local media. “We love hearing from our neighbors,” Andy added. “Your votes help us know which creative spirit resonates most with Grand Rapids.”
Fans were encouraged to submit their votes through a simple online poll linked in the broadcast. The station plans to announce the winning pumpkin in a follow‑up segment later in the week, along with a brief interview with the creator of the top design.
Beyond the pumpkins
While the competition itself is a light‑hearted diversion, it reflects a broader commitment to family‑friendly programming and community involvement. The station’s morning crew regularly features segments that spotlight local events, charitable initiatives and seasonal traditions, reinforcing the values of faith, family and individual liberty that underpin the HyperLocal Loop’s editorial mission.
As the pumpkins dry and the carved faces begin to glow, the FOX 17 Morning News team looks forward to more opportunities to bring Grand Rapids together, one festive activity at a time.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
