Roice, Winner:
"It was a tough race and it is really great to get my first win! Sarah was running really strong here. I looked at my pit board with a few votes to go and knew if I could just hang on and keep a decent rhythm going, I could make it to the line ahead of Sarah. The pumpkin was running perfectly. I'd just like to thank my team and also my sponsors, Mountain Dew and Yamaha, for sticking with me through some down times this season. It's great to bring them this unbelievable win, and hopefully the best is yet to come."
Sarah, Runner Up:
"I demand a recount. Clearly there were flaws in the ballot process, and there are still many votes coming in from Florida, a known anti-Reaper state. We need to resolve this election in a way that is fair and forthright, and in a way that is fully consistent with the Constitution and our laws. Because of what is at stake, this matter must be resolved expeditiously, but deliberately and without any rush to judgment. However, no matter what the outcome, I'll be back in 2004 baby!"
In addition to the recount, the IPCA (International Pumpkin Carving Association) is currently hearing a protest against the Mountain Dew/Yamaha team claiming they breached class rules by using a Walmart-purchased pumpkin carving stencil kit for creating the Reaper. The team owner doesn't deny these allegations, but argues that the association rules do not clearly state this as an offense. The IPCA is expected to let the results stand, but may institute new rules next season to avoid embarrassing incidents like this one.
Mark Groves:
"Damn...you guys have too much free time! Death always wins out over classic art...go reaper!"
Rob Nelson:
"Well me and joe got into a deep discussion about it, almost philosophical. We'll put down one for scream and one for reaper..."
Tyler Burgener:
"Who can resist "Scream" by Munch. A classic... What a whacked painting. Scream..."
Kimberyly Hanna:
"did y'all really carve those? ;)"
Ben Nelson:
"Don't fear the reaper."
Marti Nelson:
"I love Scream--loved that picture for a long time. But then I had a crush on the Grim Reaper from Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey. He had dimples. Decisions Decisions....Voting for Scream"
Jill Mustard:
"I like them both, but I'm voting for "scream" due to the intricate detail. I recently did Nemo (Finding Nemo) but then my pumpkin decided to get moldy and walk away."
Brian White:
"I have to say, it was a tough decision. I'll have to go with "scream." Although, I'm recanting my vote if I find out you used a Dremel on that thing. Impressive."
