Westerner 3.13.2., Story 3

I like to write personality stories for the Westerner, especially if the person who is the personality has one-a personality, that is.

John White, President of the Senior class and one of the most active seniors, not only has personality, but he is one. He's the guy who has represented Maine West in the Interim league this year and the Senior class on Student Council's executive board. He has worked to get things done for his class, and has stated that "being class president has been a very satisfying position, and I also feel the entire school should be proud of the class of '62's many achievements."

John has been on Student Council for two years and was recently elected into the Brotherhood Society. A high-ranking member of the clan, he plans to leave his clan card with junior Randy Burmiester. His best friend is Jaime Lunetto.

But let's probe into why he is a personality. He's fun to be with; makes people feel at ease with his relaxed manner and quick sense of humor. He's a smooth dancer and has won several dance contests at the after-school record hops. As for music, he digs rock and roll and Andre Previn. He not only likes to play golf, but also beats John Bernero every chance he gets.

He hates study halls and kids who criticize school organizations without any knowledge of their purpose. He feels that there is a great student-teacher relationship here at Maine West. He likes the Freemo plan of education and thinks Mrs. Lee is the coolest. However, he has stated that he had "nothing to with the stealing of Mr. Drain's gradebook." He hates the cafeteria food a n d has faithfully brought peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, oatmeal cookies, and an apple for the last four years. After writing a term paper for Miss Basenbach, he was discouraged from becoming a lawyer, but "thanks to her, I do know how to make a comma."

His plans now include four years at Western Illinois in Macomb, and a possible future in restaurant managing or as a track coach.

He works at a neighborhood Jewel after school, and this summer he will be selling sportswear at Lytton's in Oak Park, but "sorry, no discounts."

A most memorable experience I this year was a trip to Western with Coach Drain, Bill Downing, and Tom Janssens. He refused, however, to reveal what was so memorable.

"I guess I've set an all-time record, going with one ex-cheerleader for three years, but the time I called the wrong girl to break a date was certainly embarrassing!"

"Oh, no, here comes 'Crash' Thiet!"

"Crash who?"

"Thiet. Betty Thiet."

"Oh, yeh, she's the Senior class secretary"

"Thank gosh she isn't the class treasurer again this year, 'cause she'd be spending the class funds to have her car repaired!"

"I guess we're not talking about the same person."

"There is only one Betty Thiet."

"But you make her sound so reckless! The Betty Thiet I know is quiet and sweet."

"Obviously you've seen only one side of her personality. She may have been a Student Council representative for two years and all that rot, but what about the rumor that she got a speeding ticket in front of the police station?"

"I didn't hear about that. But she is an ex-Legend staff member and a member of Quill and Scroll. Those things take time and work."

"You're still defending her, huh? Well, can you explain why she lost her library card or why she is also called Betty 'Bear'?"

"No-but . . ."

"But nothing! I suppose you've also never heard about her wild times at the drive-in, or the time she and one of her accomplices stole flowers for the homecoming queen's throne at a cemetery?"

"I still say she's not that bad. After all, she is planning to become an elementary teacher after four years at Northern."

"If she ever gets away from the Oasis! She works and lives there!"

"Don't you like her at all?"

"Like her?! Sure I like her! She's one of the nicest gals in school! She's a blast to be with! I just wanted you to see her other side."

"I guess I never really knew Bettty at all. Uh-oh, here she comes. Thanks for all the dope."

"Yeah, sure. See ya' around, Hank."