Maine West has taken on a new look over the past summer. Changes have been made to improve security, increase energy efficiency, and make Maine West a safer and more enjoyable place to go to school.

One change which has gone unnoticed by a majority of the student body is in the indoor track. What had been referred to derogatorily as the pit, the indoor track, now has no reason for this title. Improvements made in this area include increased ventilation, new lighting, and a drastically improved floor surface. The black‑topped floor of last year has been replaced with a foam‑covered floor, which is more comfortable for running, and will prevent accidents which have occurred in the past, such as bone splinters in runners' feet. The track is Columbia blue, and the rest of the floor is a gold color.

Another change in sporting facilities at Maine West was the complete rebuilding of the tennis courts. This project, completed last June, makes the courts some of the best in the area, and suitable for the best of tennis competition. One project which has been dreamed of by members of the Maine West track team, was the building of a new, all-weather, outside track. This, is out of question for

the foreseeable future. The idea has been investigated by Principal James Coburn, with a negative result. A new outdoor track would require 8 lanes, as opposed to the 6 we have now. To provide more room the stands would have to be moved back from the field. Also, since an all-weather track does not absorb water, a sewage system would have to be installed. Since life safety funds could not be obtained, "the cost would be prohibitive," says Mr. Coburn.

Other changes made in Maine West include new exterior lighting. This was done for two reasons. The new lights provide increased energy savings, and, at the same time, are brighter lights, designed to prevent vandalism and give safer transportation for people leaving the building.

Exterior doors were replaced over the summer. This was done to save heat and for security reasons. The front of the school has received a facelift over the past summer. Where once only cement was, flower gardens and light poles have replaced them. One change guaranteed to get a large amount of use is the new sound system which is to be installed in the cafeteria. Besides the one microphone, which is all there is now, FM music will be piped into the cafeteria.