Local teens finalists in national art contest

THE WOODLANDS, TX Using cows as the focal point to promote dairy products as a healthy snack for kids, the third annual contest – dubbed "Cows in History" – promotes artistic creativity, academic excellence and healthy lifestyles. Nearly 6,000 students from across the United States entered the 2008 "Art of Dairy" contest.

The 30 finalists (including the two from The Woodlands) will transfer their designs to life size fiberglass cow sculptures in the final phase of competition. The giant cows will be displayed and judged.

The winner takes all - $20,000 for the school's art program and $5,000 each for the student and teacher.

The students are in the process of painting the cows and getting ready for judging.