Reduce, reuse and recycle ... something into art

Did you know that Earth Day is the birthday of Rubin the Blue Bin?

That's right, Red Wing's recycling hero is celebrating his first birthday with friends at the Red Wing Depot on Earth Day, April 22, at 12:30 p.m.

Recycling is still the easiest way to save energy and materials, he said, so saving the earth is what this birthday party is all about.

Because it may be hard to decide what to get a recycling hero for his birthday, there will be a citywide contest to create a artwork out of recycled materials. Call it "Cans on Canvas" or "Trash Rehash," the contest is open to everyone.

The Red Wing Arts Association will provide judging and three prizes at 1 p.m. Contestants will register their original artwork at the Depot from 9 to 11 a.m. that day.

Blue Bin fans, young and old, are welcome to "sing Happy Birthday on Earth Day," eat a little birthday cake and then participate in some art projects.

So, put on a smile, make up some art, and come down to the Depot Gallery April 22.

"Happy Earth Day dear recyclers, Happy Earth Day to you."

Tags: applause, earth, day, red, wing