Seven schools join in a River Heritage Museum fundraiser that offered design freedom and expert advice.

Paducah Tilghman High School senior Caroline Oliver hates to be cold, but that didn't stop her from stomping sand with her bare feet as rain poured around her Friday morning.

“My shoes got so wet they were too heavy,
so I took them off,” Oliver said. “It's not every day you get to build a sand sculpture.”

Art students from Tilghman, Heath, Reidland, Lone Oak, St. Mary, and Livingston Central high schools, and Community Christian Academy participated in the Sand in the City competition in the parking lot at 2nd and Jefferson streets.

Many students removed their shoes and shirts despite the weather. “I'm glad it's high school kids,” said Julie Harris, executive director of the River Heritage Museum, which hosted the event. “They're in their element. If it was adults out here, they would be complaining. Sand-sculpting contests are not affected by the weather, it just makes it a little more challenging. Water is part of the sculpting process, so in some ways it makes it easier.”

The teams got to choose their own design and were assisted by a master sculptor. Ingram Marine, Hannan Supply, Denton & Keuler, US Bank, Paducah Water, James Marine and McGinnis Inc. sponsored teams. Proceeds benefit the museum.

They're troupers.”

Three master sculptors will finish a more complicated design by this morning. All sculptures can be viewed through Nov. 15.

Children's activities such as an inflatable playground and a giant sandbox will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. Spectators can cast their vote for the People's Choice award before 4 p.m.

Viewing is free, but there is a small fee for the other activities.