Sculpture contest tops Earth Day event at NYPA Visitors Center

Get creative and help save the planet at the same time

The New York Power Authority is encouraging visitors of all ages to participate in a sculpture contest, which will be one of the featured events at its "Every Day is Earth Day" celebration, Saturday, April 9, at its admission-free Power Vista, the visitors center for NYPA's Niagara Power Project.

The sculptures should be made of recyclable materials, such as egg and milk cartons, newspapers, toilet paper rolls, plastic grocery bags, and brought to the Power Vista during the event. Artists are encouraged to be as creative and imaginative as possible, and to draw inspiration from the world around them.

The most creative sculptor will receive a Discovery Pass for four to Niagara Falls State Park, which includes admittance to the Maid of the Mist, Cave of the Winds, Observation Tower, Gorge Discovery Center and more - courtesy of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. Prizes will also be awarded for second- and third-place winners.

All of the entered sculptures will be displayed in the Power Vista's Community Room during the Earth Day event. Entries will be judged by area artists. A contest winner will be announced at 3 p.m.

The sculpture contest is one of many "green-themed" activities at the family-oriented event, which will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During the day, visitors can also enjoy free rides on the Niagara Scenic Trolley between the Power Vista and State Park's Gorge Discovery Center, experience exhibits with the visiting Buffalo Zoomobile, enjoy face painting by the YMCA of Lockport's Teen Leaders Club, and crafts presented by the State Parks Interpretive Center.

Modern Disposal Services Inc. and the New York State Energy Research Development Authority will conduct presentations on recycling and energy efficiency. Other exhibitors include the Aquarium of Niagara, Buffalo Reuse and more. Parents can enter a drawing to win a $50 gift certificate at the Buffalo Reuse Store.

In addition to Earth Day events, guests are invited to enjoy the Power Vista's attractions, which include displays and interactive exhibits relating to the production of electricity, energy efficiency and the area's history, as well as spectacular views from the observation deck 350 feet above the Niagara River Gorge. Parking and admission at the Power Vista, located at 5777 Lewiston Road, Lewiston, is always free.

For more information, contact the Niagara Project Power Vista at 286-6661 or email [email protected].