Some of the artwork created by Putnam County Primary School Students that was displayed as part of the school’s recent Student Art Gallery evening.

EATONTON, Ga. — Putnam County Primary School took first prize in the recent Pumpkin Decorating Contest sponsored by Lake Oconee Dentistry. The winning pumpkin featured a scene from the popular children’s book James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl and earned a total of 240 likes on Facebook. As the contest winner, PCPS received $400 for its art department and $100 for student decorator Lily Roberts. PCPS Art Teacher Pegz Fazio said the money will be used to offset expenses for the school’s recent Student Art Gallery that was held on Nov. 16.

“This was our first year hosting a ‘gallery event,’ where family and friends could come and view student artwork that was created over the last few months,” said Fazio. “This prize money will be so helpful in offsetting many of the costs associated with creating this art, from paints and pastels to paper and markers.”

Lake Oconee Dentistry approached local art teachers back in early October, offering each teacher up to two pumpkins for their students to carve or decorate. Teachers submitted pictures of the completed pumpkins, which were then posted on the Lake Oconee Dentistry Facebook page from Oct. 24through Oct. 31. During that time, visitors to the page were encouraged to “like” their favorite pumpkin. The school pumpkin that received the most likes would be the winner.

“We’re glad we could provide a fun, creative opportunity for these students to showcase their talent,” said Dr. David Bradley, co-owner of Lake Oconee Dentistry. “And we’re delighted to be able to support and encourage art education in our community.”

Drs. David and Patti Bradley opened Lake Oconee Dentistry in 1998.  In addition to providing standard preventive maintenance exams and professional cleanings, Lake Oconee Dentistry offers short-term orthodontics, cosmetic enhancements, dental implant placement and restoration, teeth whitening, and oral appliances for snoring and sleep apnea.  Lake Oconee Dentistry is proud to be recognized as the area’s “Best Dentist” by readers of The Lake Oconee Breeze for 11 years running and has won the area’s “Best Customer Service” award for several consecutive years.