THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Valenza

*Instructional Coach*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 23, 2025

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Karen Valenza. Mrs. Valenza has been an instructional coach in Brooklyn for five years. Outside of Brooklyn, she did various educational jobs, ranging from a curriculum coordinator to teaching eighth grade. Some things she likes to do in her free time are bargain shopping and going to her two daughters’ sporting competitions. A fun fact about her is that she bought herself a JBL Partybox, and she brings it with her whenever she is with friends or family. She ends up getting everyone up and dancing, often playing her favorite ABBA songs. She also met Travis Scott in concert last year.

Q: What is your educational style?

A: “Everything is about the students. No task is too small for me; give me a task, and I will do it. We all need to be working together, too. My main focus is literacy.”

Q: Why did you decide to become an instructional coach?

A: “I enjoy building relationships with people. I think I have a talent or skill at coordinating things. I also enjoy supporting people in improving.”

Q: What does a typical work day look like for you?

A: “There is never really a ‘typical’ day for me, depending on the time of year. My days always look different. The beginning and end of the school year are always the busiest. I meet with teachers and students and do a lot of ‘behind the scenes’ work. A typical day for me starts every morning with a cup of coffee.”

Q: What is one of your daily goals? Weekly goal?

A: “To have every student in Brooklyn be the best they can be at reading and literacy. My daily goal is to communicate well with the people I work with and support them with what they need.”

Q: How would you describe yourself?

A: “I am always looking at the bright side of things. I would describe myself as ‘The glass is half full.’”

Q: What is a quote that you live by?

A: “Live in the moment and seize the day. You have to have fun.”

Q: If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

A: “I have a super Type A personality. I am very organized and get flustered if what I have planned does not go the way it was expected to.”

Q: What are your plans for Summer vacation?

A: “I hope I can take a lot of little trips and get projects around the house done. My in-laws have a lakehouse in Michigan, and I plan to spend most of the Summer there to soak up the sun.”

Thank you so much for letting us interview you, Mrs. Valenza. We hope you get to do a lot of traveling and continue to do what you love. Enjoy your Summer!

Hurricanes Dominant on Senior Night

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 22, 2025

Last Thursday, the varsity baseball team (5-13) hosted its annual senior night against Glenville (1-9). The 2025 season is quickly coming to an end, so the Hurricanes wanted to finish on a high note before the playoffs begin tonight.

Before the game, the Hurricanes recognized seniors Tyler Cox, Aiden Starr, Jadyn DeLuca, Blake Baker, Phillip Banaszak, Collin Flanagan, and Shamus Harper for their hard-work throughout the years and their dedication to Brooklyn baseball.

For the game itself, both teams went down in order in the first inning with Flanagan striking out two in the top half. After a Cox leadoff walk in the bottom frame, he was thrown out stealing, and the next two hitters went down.

However, the second inning would begin the rout for the Hurricanes. After a leadoff single by DeLuca, he stole second base, and an error allowed him to reach third. He later crossed home plate to score the first run after yet another defensive error. After a few walks, errors, and passed balls, the Hurricanes were up 4-0 with nobody out. Cox then reached on an infield single, pushing another run across.

The hits started pouring on with Starr tallying an RBI double and DeLuca also hitting a double. Harper drove in Starr after an error. Then after a Baker walk with one out and a Flanagan strikeout, Banaszak drew a bases-loaded walk to make it 9-0. Junior Dominic Pytel laced a base hit into center field, plating two more runs. Back to the top of the order, Cox knocked an RBI single into left field before the inning came to an end.

The Hurricanes now led, 12-0.

Leading off the bottom of the third, freshman Mason Vega roped a double and later advanced to third on a wild pitch. He would soon score on a Starr sacrifice fly to make it 13-0. This would conclude the scoring for the Hurricanes.

Flanagan continued his dominance on the mound this season, as he pitched a complete game shutout, only giving up one hit and allowing one walk, while striking out 10 batters.

Final Score: Brooklyn 13, Glenville 0.

This win propelled the Hurricanes to 6-13, and with a win against Euclid just two days ago, the Hurricanes finished with a regular season record of 7-13.

The boys will travel to Wooster this evening for their sectional game against Triway, first pitch at 5:00. Good luck, boys!

Another good luck to the Hurricanes track team as they compete in their district meet this evening as well.

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Honor The Brave

By: BHS Features Staff

May 21, 2025

Memorial Day, always celebrated on the last Monday of May, honors the brave men and women who have passed away serving this great country.

This holiday started during the Civil War when citizens honored the dead soldiers by placing flowers on their graves. The first recorded national celebration of Memorial Day was in 1868. During this time, the holiday was known as Decoration Day, but after World War I, it was changed to Memorial Day.

Later in 1971, this holiday became a federal holiday with the goal of visiting cemeteries to mourn the brave. Additionally, ceremonies and parades take place on Memorial Day, providing an opportunity for people to reflect without going to the cemetery to prevent reliving the trauma.

In the present, Memorial Day is celebrated with the laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, a tradition that began in 1921. In Paris, France, and London, England, during the 1920s, the idea for the tomb blossomed when the French and British buried their soldiers from World War I.

The tomb symbolizes all of the soldiers who have fallen but are unrecognized. Today, the grave holds three unknown soldiers, evolving to memorialize all of the fallen soldiers throughout American history.

Memorial Day is more than just a day off of school and having a cookout; it’s a time to honor the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country.

As we are set to enjoy the long weekend ahead, let’s take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of the brave soldiers who did what it took to preserve our sovereignty.

May God bless The United States of America!

{Information sourced from Britannica, Defense, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.}

Final Days

By: BHS News Staff

May 20, 2025

Who is ready for Summer? We are!

To start off today’s news, BHS’s prom was held last Friday evening at the Cleveland Zoo, the first BHS prom ever at the zoo. There were many memories created, and it ended up being an amazing time for all.

Before prom officially began, the students went ziplining and took a ride on the carousel. Fortunately, the expected rain never came, giving the students a great, outdoor experience.

According to prom coordinator Mrs. Holko, the evening turned out just as planned.

“I think all of the teachers had an amazing time, and the students also had a very good time. Something nice about this prom was that there were many other activities other than the dance itself. For dinner, we had chicken, mashed potatoes, and veggies, followed by an amazing dessert. It was a memorable night for all,” stated Holko.

After a few hours of dining and dancing, the prom King and Queen were announced. Congratulations to Sebastian Crespo and Isabella Lottig!

A big thanks to Mrs. Holko and the prom committee for organizing such an amazing and memorable event. Also, thank you to the weather for cooperating.

Next up is graduation this Friday evening. It will be held at the Brooklyn football stadium at 6:00, as long as the forecast stays clear. If there is rain, the alternative venue is the auditorium. Seniors, remember to pick up your caps and gowns tomorrow (May 21).

We wish the best of luck to the Class of 2025 for this special evening and beyond.

Finally, there are currently eight school days remaining for all underclassmen until Summer vacation officially begins.

Here is the final May calendar.

May 21: Cap & Gown Pick-Up
May 22: Senior Clap-out & Graduation Practice
May 23: Graduation
May 26: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 30: Last Day of School

Summer is coming quickly, so finish the year strong. No regrets!

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, click here.}

The Unfortunate Goodbye

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 16, 2025

Sometimes, it is difficult to say goodbye. Other times, it’s not. For this group of four senior journalists, it will be a sad farewell because these young men have provided BHS with so many laughs and memories. They will be remembered for being well-rounded, driven, and kind.

As these four finish up their high school careers, it is time to hear from them before they receive their diplomas.

Senior #1: Collin Flanagan

*Favorite BHS Memory: “Journalism class with Mr. Holko and a few baseball memories. I cannot exactly pinpoint a favorite one, though.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2026): “Be yourself and stay involved.”

*Plans after Graduation: “I plan to attend Baldwin Wallace University and then pursue a career in Sports Management. Go Jackets! 🐝”

Senior #2: Jeffery Helmick

*Favorite BHS Memory: “The Europe trip.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2026): “Have a plan for after graduation. Do not wait until the last minute.”

*Plans after Graduation: “Get an Electrician internship.”

Senior #3: Caydin George

*Favorite BHS Memory: “I would say going to Europe. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip that I was lucky enough to go on. I also need to thank my mom and uncle for helping pay for most of it.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2026): “Do your work, do not mess around with your classmates too much, and try to show up every day.”

*Plans after Graduation: “I am going to attend Kent State University for Journalism.”

Senior #4: Aiden Starr

*Favorite BHS Memory: “Freshman year, specifically my Honors Chemistry class.”

*Advice for Next Year’s Seniors (Class of 2026): “Do not get lazy, and stay on top of your work.”

*Plans after Graduation: “I plan to attend a four-year university for a degree in Finance.”

We hope all of you go on to accomplish amazing things in your lives. Reach for the stars, work hard, accomplish anything you want to, and always be confident. Never let anyone get in your way, or better yet, never let yourself get in the way of your own happiness and success.

One last time, thank you for the countless amount of dedication, for being wonderful writers and leaders, and for being even better people. All of you have made Brooklyn a better place, and we are immensely proud of you!

“Don’t be sad that it’s over; be glad that it happened,” Dr. Suess.

Guardians Rundown

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 15, 2025

The Cleveland Guardians are currently one of the hottest teams in the American League with Summer approaching in Northeast, Ohio.

Currently, the Guardians sit at 25-18, which puts them in second place in the AL Central, 3.5 games behind the Detroit Tigers. They also have the second best record in the entire AL, tied with the Yankees.

Leading the way for the Tribe is superstar Jose Ramirez and first baseman Kyle Manzardo. Manzardo is leading the team in homers with 10 and 25 RBIs. Ramirez is hitting .295 with 8 HRs and 22 RBIs. Other contributors are 2B Daniel Schneemann, SS Gabriel Arias, and LF Steven Kwan. Schneemann is currently hitting .261 with 5 HRs and 12 RBIs, Arias is hitting .263 with 4 HRs and 19 RBIs, and Kwan leads the team in batting average at .325 with 4 HRs and 17 RBIs.

On the pitching side, reliever Hunter Gaddis has been leading the bullpen, a pen that hasn’t lived up to the lofty expectations from a year ago. In 17 innings, Gaddis has only surrendered one earned run, giving him a 0.53 ERA. A surprise out of the bullpen has been Kolby Allard, who was a late free agent signing, as he currently sits with a 1.20 ERA. The pitching has been a bit of a weakness as the Guardians currently rank 21st in baseball with a 4.14 ERA. Hopefully, the return of ace Shane Bieber and John Means will bolster the starting rotation.

Some highlights from this season include Manzardo’s first career walk-off home run against the Minnesota Twins, recent dominant pitching performances from Gavin Williams and Logan Allen, and Schneemann’s go-ahead grand slam in the ninth against the Toronto Blue Jays earlier this month. This ball club has also won four of its last five series.

However, Cleveland has been hit with some injuries (a similar script with the Cavs). Outfielder Lane Thomas first hit the IL with a bone bruise in his right wrist after getting hit during the home opener. However, he is currently on a rehab assignment with the Columbus Clippers and is expected to return soon. Reliever Paul Sewald landed on the IL with an isolated high-grade strain. This past Monday, starting pitcher Ben Lively left the game with arm discomfort, and he hit the IL on Tuesday with a right flexor tendon strain. On top of this, Bieber and David Fry are eyeing returns within the next month or two.

The Tribe has yet to hit their stride, but they have done enough to keep them in early contention. Once some of the star power gets healthy and everyone finds their rhythm, it should be a good Summer for the Guards.

Next up is a 10-game road trip starting in Cincinnati tomorrow night for the beginning of the Ohio Cup and a reunion with former manager, Tito Francona.

Go Tribe!

In Brooklyn sports, the baseball team (4-14) crushed Cleveland Central Catholic on Monday by a final of 21-2. Senior Collin Flanagan pitched three innings, giving up zero earned runs, and freshman Mason Vega finished out the day pitching two scoreless frames. On the offensive side, senior Aiden Starr led the way with five RBIs, including a grand slam to cap off a 13-run, second inning. Today, the boys will host Glenville for Senior Recognition Night. Activities start at 4:45 with first pitch at 5:00.

The softball team’s season came to an end yesterday as they lost to Mogadore in the state tournament. They finished with a record of 3-12.

Go Canes!

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Asian Festival

By: BHS Features Staff

May 14, 2025

This year, the Cleveland Asian Festival runs from May 17-18, marking its 16th anniversary. It was created to celebrate and experience the many Asian cultures, all in one location. This month is also Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, making it a perfect time to celebrate Asian culture.

The festival has a plethora of different activities, foods, and souvenirs. Over 30 different restaurants are offering traditional Asian cuisine, so you will not have to worry about leaving hungry.

Not only can you try many Asian, traditional foods but you can also vote for the best vendor. The Best Food Competition is an event in which everyone votes for who has the best food at the festival, and the winner will be crowned.

In addition to the delicious cuisine, there are well-over 100 different souvenir vendors, so you will definitely be able to find something of interest and possibly gifts for family and friends.

The most important aspect of this festival is to celebrate Asian culture. “The Colors of Asia” event on Sunday is a fashion showcase of traditional clothing, showing off the many beautiful, different clothing styles. The festival is eager to have more people model their clothing, and it is strongly recommended that you use your own clothing, but there is a limited amount of clothing available just in case you forget. If you are interested in modeling, please fill out the form listed on the website below.

The Cleveland Asian Festival is a great way to experience Asian cultures and a great opportunity to get out of the house. The festival is only 15 minutes away, so please do not miss out on the fun.

Maybe you will be picked to be the head of the dragon?

{Information for this article sourced from Cleveland Asian Festival.}

Riding Off Into The Sunset

By: BHS News Staff

May 13, 2025

As the end of the year approaches, seniors are getting ready to graduate, and two very loved staff members will be retiring. This year marks the retirement of Mrs. Katy Cushler and Mr. Jim Verba.

Mrs. Cushler and Mr. Verba have been working in Brooklyn for over 30 years each, both of them working multiple jobs within the district.

First, Mrs. Cushler started her Hurricanes career in the cafeteria and then left, thinking that she was not going to return. She then ended up returning and did multiple jobs, now finishing her career as the high school Attendance Secretary. Her plans for retirement include traveling and hoping to land a part time job as a caterer. She said that she will greatly miss her coworkers. Overall, her lifestyle will not change much, but she is grateful that she does not have to wake up at 6:00 in the morning anymore; instead, she will be able to sleep in and spend more time with her family.

Next up is Mr. Verba. He has taught a lot of different subjects over his career, covering numerous grade levels. He is also a successful coach, primarily in girls basketball. Verba has big plans for his retirement such as learning how to play the piano, traveling with his wife, and finding a part-time job doing something other than teaching. Something he has always wanted to do is learn how to cook traditional meals from different countries. Something he is going to miss from Brooklyn are the people, the students, going on the Europe trips, grading papers, and assigning Edpuzzles (He was being sarcastic on the last part.). He is looking forward to being able to do whatever he wants, whenever he wants.

The News Staff would like to congratulate both Mrs. Cushler and Mr. Verba on two wonderful careers of impact. You two will be missed!

In other news, as of last night, Brooklyn High School awarded its seniors with academic and scholarship recognitions as well as inducted new members into National Art Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, National Chinese Honor Society, National Honor Society, as well as International Thespian Society. Congratulations to all of the winners and inductees.

Testing is almost over with two AP exams remaining.

AP Spanish: May 15
AP Psychology: May 16

Finally, there are currently 13 school days remaining for all underclassmen until Summer vacation. Seniors, you are done this week!

Outside of the testing dates listed above, here is the full May calendar.

May 14-16: Senior Internship/Final Exams
May 16-17: Prom (Zoo) & Post-Prom (Swings-N-Things)
May 21: Cap & Gown Pick-Up
May 22: Senior Clap-out & Graduation Practice
May 23: Graduation
May 26: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 30: Last Day of School

Hurricane Nation, enjoy the final days until Summer freedom.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, click here.}

Senior Spotlight: Jason Eggers

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 9, 2025

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Jason Eggers. Jason’s plans after graduation involve attending Kent State University for Aerospace Engineering. Something he likes to do in his free time, which is rare for him, is landscaping for his neighbors and his grandparents. A fun fact about him is that he invests in cryptocurrency.

Q: If you could be accepted into any college/university, what would be your ideal school?

A: “Harvard.”

Q: What was your biggest setback in life, and how did you deal with it?

A: “Working and maintaining my grades. It has been a hard thing to do lately.”

Q: What is your dream job and location?

A: “Aerospace Engineering with NASA or SpaceX.”

Q: What is the most ridiculous item that you have purchased?

A: “Cologne or shoes.”

Q: If you were the president for a day, what would you do?

A: “I would focus on the school system, reduce the hours, and school would start later than it does already. That is a big deal for a lot of students. They always show up late.”

Q: What was your favorite class in high school?

A: “AP Chemistry. Despite the difficulty, it was fun with the labs and everything like that.”

Q: What is your favorite Pokémon?

A: “Gangara because the backstory is sad.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been your biggest inspiration or influence?

A: “Mr. Chernushin. He always tries to make sure you are prepared and you know what you are getting into.”

Thank you for letting us interview you, Jason. We hope that your dream is fulfilled in Aerospace Engineering. What a great life goal!

Spring Sports Winding Down

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 8, 2025

As mid-May approaches, Hurricanes Spring sports are beginning to wrap up with OHSAA playoffs on the horizon.

Yesterday, both the softball and track teams hosted their respective senior nights.

First with softball, before the game against Independence, the team recognized seniors Jessica Byrnes, Emily Radovanic, Andrea Guzman, Antonia Torres, Aaliyah Chin, Audrena Vega, and Rayanna Cogburn for all their hard work and dedication throughout this season and the years prior.

Although the game result was not what the girls wanted for senior night, they have a lot to be proud of, as this is their first year playing a varsity schedule with the last two years being on a JV schedule. Regardless, these girls stuck it out and improved throughout the years.

Nice job, ladies.

Moving forward to the track team, seniors Kevin Nguyen, Jaylen King, Ema Bencova, and Camila Gordillo were recognized for their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

We at the Sports Staff would like to congratulate these four seniors, especially Ema and Camilla for participating this year as exchange students.

In other Spring sports, the baseball team (4-10) travels to Cuyahoga Heights tonight to take on the Red Wolves. First pitch is at 5:00.

Go Canes!

In Cleveland sports, the Cavaliers are not in an ideal situation as they trail the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference (best-of-seven) semi-finals, 2-0. Game 3 is tomorrow in Indianapolis.

However, at the corner of Carnegie and Ontario, the Guardians hold the second-best record in the American League at 22-15. Roll Tribe!

Have a great week, sports fans.

{For up-to-date events and schedules, visit Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.}

Honor Thy Mother

By: BHS Features Staff

May 7, 2025

This year, Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 11, and it is time to start thinking about how to celebrate the special moms in our lives. Whether it is a thoughtful gift, a homemade card, or simply spending quality time together, there are countless ways to show appreciation to all of the wonderful mothers in the world today.

With that being noted, here are some fun and creative activities to do with your mom this upcoming Sunday.

*Cooking/Baking: One of the best and easiest things to do on Mother’s Day is to cook or bake something. Mothers are always cooking or baking for their families, but they usually don’t have their children helping them. Not only is it great to spend time cooking and baking, but the best part is that you get to enjoy the food together.

*Dancing/Exercising: A great way for you and your mom to bond is to dance or work out. This is a great activity because you can both help each other become healthier, and you have the enjoyment of talking to her as you exercise. Plus, a nice, long walk in the Cleveland Metroparks can cleanse the soul.

*Scavenger Hunt: A scavenger hunt is a great idea for moms with younger kids. Both the mom and children can create a special, unforgettable memory. A scavenger hunt can be easy to set up, and it can involve any theme that either party is interested in, which will make the bond even stronger.

*Painting: Painting with your mom is a great activity for not just children but adults, too. Painting not only allows you to get to know your mom better, but you will also end up with a cute painting afterwards that allows you to remember the memories you share with your mother.

*Eating Out: Simple, original, and reliable. You can never go wrong with taking your mom out to a nice restaurant and eating some delicious food. If your mother is truly sick of cooking and just wants a break, taking her out is the next best option.

*Editor’s Note from Mr. Holko: I am so incredibly-blessed to have such a wonderful, caring, selfless, and loving mom. In addition, my wife holds these same attributes as the mother of our son. Happy Mother’s Day to the most important women in my life.

Considering all of these fun activities, be sure to try and make this Mother’s Day unforgettable. Whether you are crafting, cooking, or even just spending some good ol’ quality time together, the most important thing is to show your mom how much she means to you.

Happy Mother’s Day!

{Information for this article sourced from Beautiful.}

Eventful May

By: BHS News Staff

May 6, 2025

Rain, rain, go away! It is time for sunshine, warm weather, the end of the school year, and of course, Summer vacation.

First, last Friday, the Brooklyn Jazz Ensemble and the Singing Storm performed An Evening With concert. In addition to the two musical groups, National Art Honor Society members created many beautiful paintings for the audience to view before, during, and after the concert. Simply, it was a fun night for BHS students to show off their talents.

Next order of business, as we bid Adieu to the Class of 2025, Mrs. Bader and the Student Council have been making something special for the seniors, one final spirit week. It begins tomorrow, and the details are located on the flyer below.

Additionally, yesterday marked the beginning of Teacher Appreciation Week, and the News Group would like to take some time to thank a teacher who has been influential to them throughout their high school careers.

*Maddy: “One teacher who has always been there and inspired me throughout high school is Mrs. Chrzan. I had her in my sophomore year for Biology, and to this day, it was one of my favorite classes. I love the way she taught and how she operated the classroom. I am now a teacher’s aide for her and love it so much! She deserves all of the appreciation.”

*Ben: “One teacher who inspired me has to be Mrs. Sullivan, just by the way she teaches and operates her classroom. It’s inviting and helps me work better. Not a lot of English teachers have made writing feel easy, but she somehow has.”

*Caydin: “A teacher who has always been an inspiration to me is Mr. Roegiers. When I had his class junior year, it was a small class, but he managed to make it fun, even though there were only four students in it. He is a funny person, and I still pop in occasionally to chat with him.”

Now that End-of-Course exams have concluded, May officially marks the start of AP exams. The full schedule for these exams is below.

AP Chemistry and Government: May 6
AP U.S. History: May 9
AP Spanish: May 15
AP Psychology: May 16

Finally, there are currently 18 school days remaining until Summer for all underclassmen. Seniors only have nine maximum days left, including the senior internship and/or final exams. The end is near, so get your school work done well and turned in on time. Also, get your community service hours completed and fees paid off.

Outside of the testing dates listed above, here is the full May calendar.

May 8: Band Concert
May 14-16: Senior Internship/Final Exams
May 16-17: Prom (Zoo) & Post-Prom (Swings-N-Things)
May 21: Cap & Gown Pick-Up
May 22: Senior Clap-out & Graduation Practice
May 23: Graduation
May 26: Memorial Day (NO SCHOOL)
May 30: Last Day of School

We hope that you enjoy the final days until Summer freedom.

{To stay updated with the Brooklyn City School District, click here.}