I've install Debian 7.8.0 on my Toshiba laptop
Several issues, but I'll submit them one-by-one.

THe login screen defaults to the previous user.
I'm not used to this, and it is undesirable: username
and you're half way in!. Mepis 12 (previous OS)
had an option in system>settings/login to control
this behaviour.
I want the login screen to not default to previous
user, I know this can be done done - I just can't find
where the controls are.
I want "non-convenience" - no previous user, etc
If Mepis 12 (Debian 7.2) could do it, surely Debian
7.8.0 can also.

System Settings -> System Administration (Login Screen). Click on the Convenience tab, and on the left side under Preselect User, select None. On the bottom right, click on Apply.

You may be prompted for the root user password to complete the action.

forgive my stupidy, if I had just scrolled down... I'm used to system settings
fitting on one page.

thanks.