By Nan Thinnes

Can three separate wings really be combined into one? If so, can the school still have unity and friendliness? The answer can be found in Maine West's cafeteria every morning before school. For it is here, in the center of the school, that the students have chosen to gather daily‑some to study, some just to talk and gaff with their friends.

Anyone who enters the cafeteria at this time cannot help noticing the feeling of warmth and oneness that prevails. The absence of dominating cliques is assurance that all students will be welcome here. Why did you begin assembling like this, as if by instinct? Why don't you meet near your homerooms, in your own wings? The answer is obvious; you are aware that this is ONE school with ONE student body. You want to be where everyone else is, no matter what wing you're from.

But this warmth must not end here; you must not leave it in the cafeteria when you go to homeroom. The friendliness that starts your morning right can make your whole day go better. The oneness that pervades the cafeteria can brighten every wing, every class room, all day long. All it takes is a smile, a friendly "Hi," and an interest in someone besides yourself.

Maine West students have proven that they can be warm and friendly, and have shown that they want to be. You have begun a wonderful tradition that can have a big part in determining what kind of school Maine West will be. It is up to you to see that the tradition is continued.