On Thursday, January 14, at 6:30 p.m., in the biting cold under the dim yellow illumination of the lights on the basketball court, warmth radiated from a power stronger than the bitter elements....love. Friends, classmates, teachers, and many others gathered on the frigid cement at the Frazier Mountain Park to honor the life and times of Nick Bettis, 16 year old FMHS Junior who apparently took his own life on January 12. The tragedy left the community stunned and saddened.

At the candle-lighting last Thursday, a circle was formed on the court, composed of 75+ people attending the memorial. Comrades unhesitatingly picked up a megaphone in the clearing and shared heartwarming tales about their friend - once a star quarterback, always a joy to be around. He was consistently described as an outgoing, cheerful guy who could, time and again, elicit a smile to replace any grimace within range of his infectious laugh. The stories ranged from his prowess in sports (“Now THAT guy could chuck a pigskin!”), to his affable charm (“I had a crush on him, but then again, who didn’t?”), to his thoughtful, considerate nature as a friend (“He was always there when I needed him.”) Everyone seemed to sense his wish for them to be happy, and many voiced the sentiment that they should celebrate his life while acknowledging that his death was a great loss for the community. One girl made an important observation: simply because people may feel depressed as a result of his choice, no one should follow his example. The pain, sorrow, and confusion felt by his family after his death are irreversible and heartbreaking. Another concerned onlooker noted that Nick’s death was regrettable – and above all, unnecessary. Suicide is never the answer – the emotional shockwaves sent out the choices of one person cause unimaginable damage in every direction, scarring many.

The legacy of Nick Bettis,(1/24/93-1/12/10), lives on in the hearts of the many lives he touched. At 11:20 a.m. on Thursday, poetry was read and more memories were shared. A memorial service will be held for Nick from 2:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 23 at FMHS – a slideshow commemorating his life will be shown, probably accompanied by more tales about the well-loved young man. The people of Frazier Park offer our sympathy and prayers for Nick’s family and friends in this time of sorrow.