Here it is the end of the year! We never thought we would make it to this day. For seniors, it is a very special time, even more so than for other students. Everyone's enthusiasm is at an extremely high level ‑ but that level is not always safe.

When we are excited, all of us tend to do things that are not in our best interest. We get a little too carefree; we drive a little too fast, and some drink. All of these put together add up to a very dangerous situation.

Good times can still be had, yet all of us must consciously remember to be just a little more cautious. All of the end‑of‑the‑year festivities promote a feeling of good will and happiness. We must be careful that these feelings do not grow to such levels that we become careless. Though our emotions are high, our heads and thinking must remain level if all of us are to remain safe. If we do not remain level‑headed, the chances of accidents and needless disasters rise considerably.

In the past few years drinking among teenagers has been increasing. This increase in teenage drinking has had many adverse results. The accident rate

among teenagers has increased along with an increase in other type of accidents, as coordination and vision are impaired greatly when alcohol is introduced into the bloodstream. We are not any different from all the other teenagers across the land. Many of us at one time or another have tried an alcoholic beverage. Some tend to drink to excess, and this is where the trouble begins. To our bodies, alcohol is a new substance and a very strong one and a very, very dangerous one.

We seniors have had many great times during our four years here at Maine West. We will never forget all the fun we have had at the different dances, pep rallies, and other activities. Senior end-of-the-year festivities are the climax of four years of fun. We do not want anything to ruin this or make us sad during this happy time. If we all exercise caution, it will truly be a happy time.

So let us all remember to exercise more than usual caution at the end of this year. Remember, drive at the speed limit and watch out for others; exercise restraint on the urge to do crazy things. Most of all do not drink. Now let us all have a very happy and safe end of the year.