The Bruin- November 2004

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Wadsworth High School

Newspaper II/III

November 2004

E-mail us: bruin@wadsworth.k12.oh.us

REMINDER: Thanksgiving Break Nov. 25- 29

THE BRUIN

visit us on the web: www.wadsworth.k12.oh.us/whs

$1.00

625 Broad Street Wadsworth, Ohio 44281

Volume XXX No. 2

Local hero walks among us BY KATE HUDSON

It is not everyday you stumble upon a reallife hero. However, many students interact with one amazing hero everyday. Ron Saylor is not only a respected guidance counselor, but he is also a beloved uncle, father, husband, and friend. Though he may not have much control over his own life at this point, he is striving to better the lives of others. Saylor is a true inspiration and role model. Last year, Saylor was diagnosed with bonemarrow cancer. He went into remission, but unfortunately, the cancer has returned. However, with his Christian faith serving as a stronghold, Saylor is doing his best to move on with his life and face all the challenging obstacles thrown his way. “He’s scared but trying to make the best of all this,” said Saylor’s niece Kristen Saylor. Many individuals, other than his direct family, have also noticed the respectable characteristics that make him such an inspiration. Other than his admirable ability to put the negative aspects of cancer in the back of his mind , fellow guidance counselor Miss Allison has noticed another unique characteristic that adds to his personality. “He has a quiet strength,” said Allison. Saylor may not look like the stereotypical superhero that goes around saving lives, but

Co-workers and friends surprised Ron Saylor and celebrated with him shortly after he received his generous gift from the faculty, staff, and students. PHOTO BY STAFF MEMBER

he definitely has the willpower and strength it takes to deal with life’s unexpected hindrances. Many of us lack this “quiet strength” Saylor possesses. Therefore, when life throws us a curve ball, we are not always ready to hit. We may back down from the pitch and just give up. Saylor is an evident exception. “No matter what happens, he’ll go through it. He never gives up,” commented Kristen. Worrying about what may happen is not an option for him.

Teen suicides put school on alert BY KATE HUDSON

Students and faculty are coping with a second suicide which occurred Thursday, November 4. The suicide prior to this one occurred about seven weeks ago on September 15. Research has indicated that this second suicide was not a “copycat suicide” because it did not occur within 48 hours of the first one. However, both suicides have a lot in common. Yet what most people have in common now are mixed emotions. “Students are struggling with it. There is always a concern that they will not handle it well,” said Fortner.

Coping tactics utilized for the first death have made their way back into the highschool. The school brought in 20 counselors in their attempt to provide some sort of comfort for those suffering from such a tragic incident. Throughout the day, counselors were available for individual or group sessions. The mentality of many students, after hearing of the second suicide, was one of great emotion and distress. No one expected to learn of another suicide occurring within the student body. Coincidence or not, these teen suicides have taken drastic, emotional tolls on many people here at the High School.

Signs a teen may be at risk of suicide - Self-destructive behavior - Withdrawal from friends, family, and regular activities - Giving away favorite possessions - Radical personality changes - Feelings of worthlessness, selfreproach, or guilt - Change in eating and sleeping habits or appearance - Diminished ability to think or concentrate

- Becoming suddenly cheerful after period of depression - Complaining about being a bad person - Relationship problems with boyfriend or girlfriend - Previous suicide attempt - Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions, such as stomachaches, headaches, or fatigue

The one option he does have is to undergo chemotherapy. Saylor began his treatment the week of November 3, the day he gets back from a relaxing trip to Charleston, South Carolina. To help send Saylor on this vacation, students and faculty were each asked to donate a dollar to wear a hat and jeans, respectively. Some people did not even take the privilege to wear a hat or jeans; they just donated money for the importance of the cause. As a whole, the students and faculty raised just over $2,255.

Other than visiting this favorite vacation spot of his, he also thoroughly enjoys watching sports, primarily baseball and football. Moreover, “he really likes watching his son, nephews, and nieces grow up and be successful in life,” Kristen added. Though success has many definitions, Ron Saylor offers some good advice in finding your own success. “Keep on trying no matter how hard it is, and something good will come of it,” Kristen explained of her uncle’s advice. Along with his great advice, Kristen also enjoys his company. Saylor’s presence is especially appreciated during the holidays when the Saylor family gathers together to celebrate all the memorable dates of the year. In the past, they have spent the holidays at Ron’s house. However, Saylor’s diagnosis has forced the Saylor family to spend the holidays elsewhere. Clearly, Ron Saylor allows us to understand what being a real life hero is all about. Though these past few months have been very difficult for him as well as for all those close to him, Saylor continues to maintain notable inner strength and kindness. These character traits enable him to continue choosing others over himself. Saylor truly is an incredible inspiration and role model.

Vets reflect on special day BY EMILY LYREN

When it comes to Veterans Day, many students tend to immediately think about the assembly that takes place each year in the West Gym. “Yes! I can’t wait for the Veteran’s assembly!” Ashley Kelker exclaimed. But it is not just a day of going to school and getting out of class. Veteran’s Day is a day to show our appreciation for the men and women who have served our country. Many do not realize that we have three important veterans right in front of our eyes. Walking through the hallways everyday, Mr. John Martin, Mr. Mike Schmeltzer and Mr. Larry Smith have each dedicated a number of years to our country. Martin enlisted and served for 29 years but never served in a war. “I’d do it again in a heart beat! I love America!” said Martin. Both Schmeltzer and Smith, on the other hand, were drafted during the Vietnam War. Schmeltzer says he was lucky. During the war, he was positioned in a support unit off the coast of Vietnam which was a very secure area. He knew that he wanted to become a teacher when he returned. In fact, he spent most of his time tutoring when he came back from overseas. Schmeltzer is now an Honors Chemistry teacher, while he also coaches J.V. basketball and Varsity softball. Living each day with a military background, the three men eventually came to realize what is most important in

their lives. “Losing friends throughout the Vietnam Era made me realize how unexpected death can be,” said Schmeltzer. All have learned to have a better appreciation for the things in their lives. Smith stated he, “really started to appreciate life, period.” Martin said he has a greater appreciation for our

Mr. Martin, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Schmeltzer are respected veterans and faculty members of our highschool.

freedom of choice and for America, but he also takes the time to reflect on the sacrifices he and all the men had to make throughout their service time. “The loss of friends, family, or fellow soldiers is the ultimate sacrifice of war,” stated Martin. Showing your appreciation to those veterans means the world to them and our appreciation for our world is their life. “Treat people the way you want to be remembered,” Schmeltzer advised. The assembly is not all that we have to remind us of our veterans. The veterans walk among us everyday.

Arts and Clubs Page 10

VarietyPage11

Sports Page 12

Music Page 15

Read about the outcomes of the NHS blood drive.

Check out “Junk of The Month.”

Read about the volleyball team and their run in the tournament.

Read about Uppercut, a new local rockband.


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The Bruin- November 2004 by Wadsworth Bruin - Issuu