Feb 11, 2007 2 min read

One of those creative minds exists right here in Smock. Valerie Randolph of Smock has been selected as one of the nominees in “Staples Invention Quest’ for the “Over the Edge Furniture Guard.’ Randolph was inspired to create her idea because looking in between her desk and the wall, she saw a remote control for her air conditioner, post-it notes, white out and other items that should not have been there.

“Staples Invention Quest reveals the innovative spirit of Americans,” said Jevin Eagle, senior vice president of Staples Brands. “Once again, our customers have come up with terrific ideas for the next best office, home or school product that truly makes life easier.”

Since the inception of Invention Quest in 2004, Staples has received more than 30,000 entries. Finalists will be selected in March and will receive a trip for two to New York City for the Invention Quest finals on April 24. A panel of inventors and entrepreneurs will decide who walks away with the $25,000 grand prize. Consumers can also weigh in on their favorite invention and who they think should win from April 2 to April 20 at www.staples.com/IQ.

Fifteen finalists consisting of five adults, kids and associate entrants will each receive a $5,000 cash prize.

Additionally, winners may receive royalties if their ideas are created and sold exclusively by Staples.

Staples offers its customers more than 2,000 Staples brand products in stores, on Staples.com and through catalogs. Products range from ink and toner to paper, filing systems and technology accessories. All Staples products undergo an intense independent laboratory quality-testing program and are 100 percent satisfaction guaranteed.