VOL. IX, NO. 11
APRIL 5, 1968

Rich Promotes Spirit
Rich Hagedorn. What club is he president of? None, although he is an active member of M-Club, Spanish Club, and Student Council. What sport is he captain of? None, but this 5'8" senior earned two letters in cross country and participated on the track and wrestling teams. Well, then, maybe he's the class "brain," the honor scholar of the week. Strike three. Rich studies English IV, chemistry, solid geometry, and Spanish III.

Does the word "spirit" sound familiar? Rich, who describes himself as an "enthusiastic, neat person who tries to get the job done" is a good example of what Maine West needs - a student with spirit.

Why is there a lack of spirit at Maine West? "I think that the majority of the students are afraid to show their spirit," Rich commented. "There are also a lot of students who feel that school spirit is only concerned with sports. We also need people to support the plays, musical activities, and scholastic events at Maine. School spirit is promoted through participation, evolved from pride in your school and yourself."

Rich continued and mentioned Pep Club. "This club attempts to promote spirit, to get the students involved. They do a fine job, especially with the pep 		rallies which honor our athletes. It the team members know that the student body is behind them, it helps them tremendously on the playing field, the gym, or the track."

The student seminar concerned with school spirit can claim Rich as one of its members. "I think the seminar is really great," he remarked, "and I'm confident that we will get things done. I think a survey investigating what percentage of our students work and what percentage have no desire to attend any school-sponsored events would be a great advantage to us. We are attempting to start a spirit of communication among students to develop well-rounded students."

Rich suggested a few improvements for Maine West and its students. "I would like all the students to look up to the athletes. They worked hard for their letters and carry an inborn pride for the school. I also think that the cheerleaders do a great job, but I think that we should have boy cheerleaders."

Rich may not have any extraordinary favorite foods liver-sausage, dill pickles - or any unusual habits, but he does possess the sense of pride and concern that proves it doesn't take the president of the class or a cheerleader to evoke school spirit.