DOWNEY - Downey resident Andrew Saldana won a new car and a $50,000 college grant after he was chosen the winner of a national contest conducted by Nissan North America. Saldana, 18, was chosen from a field of more than 80,000 contest entries.

The contest, conducted last year between Aug. 29 and Oct. 12, asked entrants to submit innovative ideas for new products, services or applications "that could improve people's everyday lives." Each concept was limited to 500 words and began, "Wouldn't it be cool if..."

All accepted entries were published in an "idea gallery" designed to inspire other innovative concepts.

Professional judges selected two winners based on originality, impact and feasibility. A third winner was chosen by the public.

Judges chosen Saldana as the top winner, awarding him a fully-equipped 2013 Nissan Altima and the $50,000 grant.

Saldana took possession of the prizes Friday during a ceremony at Downey Nissan.

********** Published: March 7, 2013 - Volume 11 - Issue 47