The upcoming Sandcastle Competition on East Beach in Galveston is predicted to attract some 35,000 visitors, including sponsors, participants, architects, engineers and students from all Texas architectural schools. The 11th annual competition will be held on May 31.

Chaired by Pam Vassallo, AIA, Ray Bailey Architects, Inc., the countdown work began on St. Patrick's Day when industry-related professionals received registration forms. On April 24th a lottery among the 65 registered teams determined prime team plot positions on the beach for the day of the competition.

One of the major event sponsors is A&E Products, represented by partner Pat Gremillion. Deloitte Touche will tally the competition votes. Last year's event raised $35,000 to benefit AIA/Houston's community outreach programs.