Dear Editor:
Is Christmas getting too commercialized? Well, after I heard the following news I am afraid so. Montgomery Wards, which has never been my idea of a particularly high class store, has recently announced a disgusting proposition. They are going to be open on Christmas Day. Their only reason for being open is, I presume, the exchanging of gifts that have proved themselves unworthy of someone's desires.

Even if the store does a good business, which I sincerely hope they do not, it will still be a bad idea. I wonder if the president of this chain knows what the meaning of Christmas is. The mere thought of trying for more of the consumer's money on this holy day makes Ebenezer Scrooge seem generous by comparison. If I was ever desperate enough as to seek employment there, I would refuse to work on this special day. One hundred years ago, when Aaron Montgomery Ward founded this chain, I'm sure he would have no more thought of being open on Christmas than he would have on Easter.

It would appear to me that the uncommercialized Christmas is destined to die a slow death and become nostalgia like the $.05 cup of coffee and the Edsel thanks to the great American consumer and notably Montgomery Wards.

Chris Ladner


Dear Editor:
In your recent editorial entitled, "Can Be Bought for a Steal," the members of the Des Plaines Racing Team feel that your article was discriminating against drag racing.

We feel that street racing is all right as long as there is little or no traffic and conducted down U.S. Oakton, which is between River and Route Illinois 94.

Street racing is only an acceleration race through first and second gears. Top speed in second gear is only 65.

Besides everyone has some rally in their blood.

Des Plaines Racing Team

Dear Editor:
I would like to comment on the rudeness of the audience during the seventh period showing of "David and Lisa." For about 10 minutes kids were talking, whistling, shouting, doing just about everything except watching the movie.

I think it was pretty inconsiderate for those kids to be rowdy when others were trying to watch it. If they didn't want to see it, then why did they come?

Name Withheld


Dear Editor:
Last week we had six students from Lake Park High School here, on an all school exchange. The kids from Lake Park were fascinated by our school and how it functions. They said we had a friendly and high spirited school. Hats off to the students of Maine West.

Name Withheld by Request


Dear Editor:
I would just like to commend the Des Plaines Guard on their great idea to have a swimming class for the handicapped. I think this is a fantastic opportunity for the handicapped children to learn something for their own enjoyment.

Name Withheld by Request


To Mr. Hugh, and the Maine West Key Club:

I would like to apologize for my statement in the Wandering Warrior column of the Westerner. I think it was in bad taste to offend the club the way I did, and so I hope that my apology is accepted.

Name Withheld by Request