4th Annual Valero Meraux Invention Convention Is A Huge Success

The fourth annual Valero Meraux Invention Convention, a competition among 5th graders in St. Bernard Parish, concluded in May.

Students either invented new items or improved existing items to solve a real-life problem. These fifth graders represented the following schools: Arabi Elementary, Chalmette Elementary, Davies Elementary, Gauthier Elementary, Lacoste Elementary, Lynn Oaks School, Meraux Elementary, Our Lady of Prompt Succor School, and Smith Elementary.

Valero would like to congratulate the following winners: 1st place Ace Caballero from Davies Elementary for the “Drain Defense,” 2nd place Gretchen Miller from Gauthier Elementary for the “Reusable Vegetable Pole” and Kimberly Quintanilla from Lacoste Elementary for the “EZ Jewelry Holder.”

“We are pleased to sponsor the ‘Invention Convention’ program for the youth of our parish again this year. Valero is a strong advocate of education and contributes to programs, agencies, and organizations that share the same focus,” said Jack Merrill, VP, and General Manager.

Valero not only funds the program but they also provide volunteers who serve as judges. Others from the community volunteered their time as well. Special thanks to all of the schools, Docville Farm for hosting the finals, and members of local businesses who supported this event as well.

“Every year we continue to see new and innovative ideas from these 5th graders. They continue to amaze us with their creativity and approach to problem-solving,” said Mariana Williamson, Valero Superintendent of Turnaround Planning and Invention Convention Coordinator.

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