Credit unions

OGDEN — Goldenwest Credit Union was presented with the “Best Companies To Work For” award at a luncheon held Thursday by Utah Business magazine in Salt Lake City.

ROY -- Some students at Lakeside Elementary School already have one thing crossed off their Christmas lists -- new shoes. Students spent Wednesday morning being measured for new shoes through the Warm the Soles With Kids service project by America First Credit Union.

Each year, America First and other Utah credit unions raise money to donate new shoes to elementary-aged students who probably would not otherwise get new shoes for Christmas.

OGDEN -- Shelley Clarke has announced her retirement after 10 years as president and CEO of Goldenwest Credit Union.

Clarke's retirement is effective at the end of the year. Kerry Wahlen will take her place at the state's third largest credit union.

SALT LAKE CITY -- Julio Cortez, a fourth-grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary School in Ogden, has been named Teacher of the Year by the 100% for Kids Credit Union Education Foundation.

ROY -- It has been 17 years since America First Credit Union has been helping students at Lakeview Elementary get a leg up in society, so they thought it was a cause for celebration.

Employees of the credit union came to the school recently with music, treats, games and party favors, plus a check for $500.

Every year the credit union throws the party and adds the $500 check to help the school with any improvements it may need. For the past couple of years principal Cami Alexander has been using the money to enhance technology at the school. Last year it was used for smart boards in classrooms and this year it will also help buy more smart boards but will also be used to enhance the school's sound system.

"We have some really talented kids here and we want them to be able to use their talents," Alexander said.