IBA seeking artists and modeling enthusiasts for International Bridge 50th anniversary contests

Contact: Phil Becker, International Bridge Administration, 906-635-5255, ext. 112

Agency: Transportation

March 5, 2012 -- The International Bridge Administration (IBA) today announced the start of two contests celebrating this year's 50th anniversary of the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge. The coloring book and bridge modeling contests are intended to engage students and modeling enthusiasts in creative depictions of the bridge.

The coloring book contest challenges children to create a line drawing of the bridge and the twin Saults that follows the anniversary theme: "Celebrating International Friendship."

"The goal of this contest is to increase awareness and appreciation for what the bridge has meant to our two cities and our two nations over the last 50 years," said IBA General Manager Phil Becker. "We are reaching out to our schools with this campaign."

Submitted entries in three age groups will be evaluated by a judging panel, and the top eight entries will receive a $25 cash prize and bridge anniversary commemorative merchandise. The eight winning entries also will be included in the 50th anniversary coloring book, available later this summer at the toll booths and the IBA Web site.

The bridge model contest includes cash prizes for first, second and third place, as well as commemorative bridge gifts. The first-place model also will be placed on public display in the IBA office lobby. Models will be judged on five main criteria, including bridge design elements, creativity, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and overall presentation.

The coloring book contest concludes June 1 with the bridge modeling contest concluding Sept. 29. Registration forms and rules for both contests are available at the IBA Web site, www.michigan.gov/iba, or from any bridge toll attendant. Bridge model contest registrants will receive scale bridge drawings for reference.

IBA employees are available to visit schools to present a brief photo history of the bridge to promote the coloring contest. The IBA office can be reached at 906-635-5255 or 705-942-4345.

Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge "Celebrating 50 Years of International Friendship, 1962 - 2012"