The competition is based on a 1,000-word essay that students will submit. The topic for this year: "What are the benefits of credit union membership and why would a young adult choose a credit union versus another financial institution?"

A panel of judges will read the essays and evaluate them on accuracy, content, thoroughness, clarity of expression, grammar and composition.

Prizes will be awarded as follows: 12th-grade--first place will win $1,000, second place $500 and third place $250; 11th-grade--first place will win $500, second place $200 and third place $150; 10th-grade and ninth-grade winners will receive $250 for first place, $150 for second and $100 for third place.

For more information and application materials, visit www.meriwest.com or email corp_communications@meriwest.com.

Entries must be received by Oct. 15.


Locals honored at Arkansas

The University of Arkansas Alumni Association's San Francisco Bay Area chapter has awarded two Los Gatos residents scholarships to attend the university.

The chapter chose Arkansas students Andy Housley and Marcis Riedel based on their academic achievement, leadership and community service.


High school thanks pool supporters

Los Gatos High School will hold its "Thanks a Million" party Oct. 13 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the gym. The event is a community party and is to recognize and thank those who contributed to the ongoing pool fundraising efforts.

Plans for a complete swimming pool renovation began in 1999. The cost of the remodeling was estimated at $2.8 million. Currently the school is about $125,000 short of the total needed funds.

The new L-shaped pool will feature eight lanes, a lift for disabled swimmers, two diving boards and a pool deck.


Rebelo is a Northeastern graduate

Regina Rebelo of Los Gatos recently graduated from Northeastern University. Rebelo received a bachelor of arts degree from the college of arts and science. More than 3,500 degrees were awarded at the ceremony, the university's 100th commencement.