We are the accused. The youth of Maine West stand open to the charges of prejudice, suspicion, and skepticism.

They accuse us of being crude, vulgar, and unartistic; yet 159 Maine West students received awards in scholastic art competition. They say that youth is unmusical and does not appreciate fine artistry; yet our school bands have been awarded first‑place recognition in statewide competition and the Stage Band festival.

We are said to possess neither spirit nor athletic pride and tradition; still, our Warriors captured a regional championship with the frenzied cheers of 1,000 fans ringing in their ears.

The accusers pronounce us selfish, self‑centered, and uncharitable; yet we raised $1,000 for a CARE development thousands of miles away, and we operate one of the few high school radio stations in Illinois for the benefit of the community. They charge that we lack initiative and enterprise; yet we ourselves produce a sensational variety show each year.

We, the accused, are innocent.