Press Release: 03-01-2012

Residents across Waukegan are beginning to see the artwork of four Carman-Buckner Elementary students splashed across a delivery truck that travels all over town.

Fifth graders Jose Vara, Joseph Hernandez, Eric Salas and Renato Tovar were recently named the winners of Preferred Meal Systems “Healthier Foods for a Healthier Me” art contest. The contest coincided with Waukegan Public Schools’ “Food Day” in October. During the special celebration, which encouraged healthy meal choices, students were asked to create artwork for one of Preferred Meal Systems’ delivery trucks. Preferred Meals is the meal service provider at District 60 elementary schools.

Jose, Joseph, Eric and Renato worked collaboratively to illustrate a simple smiley-face design created from fruits and vegetables, adorned with the slogan: “Healthy Food Makes Healthy Kids!”

They were celebrated as winners of the contest during a special assembly at Carman-Buckner, where students met professional wrestler, Adam Pearce, a Waukegan native. Following the assembly Jose, Joseph, Eric and Renato had the opportunity to view their winning masterpiece on the side of a giant delivery truck.

“The Healthier Foods for a Healthier Me campaign helps educate Waukegan Public School District 60 students about the importance of food and nutrition,” said George A. Chivari, President & CEO of Preferred Meal Systems. “We are totally committed to providing Waukegan Public School District 60 students with healthy and tasty meals.”

Email Contact: nalajakis@wps60.org

Winning students with Adam Pearce and Carman-Buckner Principal Ms. Vanessa Campos.