THE RETURN OF THE EYE

That’s a Wrap

By: BHS News Staff

October 3, 2023

This past week, Brooklyn High School celebrated Homecoming with many exciting events, so here is a recap of the fun and memories.

The fun started with the annual Homecoming Pep Rally. The Homecoming Court played various games, and it was quite comical, especially watching some of them shoot a basketball in the popular game of Knock-Out. Additionally, other BHS students had a chance to see if they were raffle prize winners. School Spirit? The grade level winner was the senior class who came out victorious with their school spirit throughout the entire week leading up to the Pep Rally. Simply, it was an exciting rally to see all of BHS having fun and coming together.

The homecoming game included a spectacular performance from the band and Hurricettes, and although an unfortunate loss, the football team played hard against Independence. [Note: For the Homecoming game recap, stay tuned for Thursday’s article from the Sports Staff.]

What everyone wanted to know was who was going to be crowned Homecoming King and Queen. After a school-wide vote, the winners were announced prior to kickoff.

The 2023 BHS Homecoming King and Queen are Miguel Veloz and Idajia Simpson. Congratulations to both of you!

After Friday, the festivities were not finished because on Saturday, the Homecoming Dance was one for the ages. Decorated with deep reds and gold, the night captured the mysterious ambiance of a true Masquerade Ball. The students enjoyed a lot of dancing, singing, and laughter, making it a night to remember.

Finally, a huge THANK YOU to the students, staff (especially Mrs. Bader), and parents for making this Homecoming Week special!

Now that Homecoming Season has ended, here are some dates to look forward to in October.

October 12: Parent/Teacher Conferences
October 12: Senior Information Night (see Google Classroom for more details)
October 13: NO SCHOOL (NEOEA Day)
October 19: End of First Quarter
October 20: NO SCHOOL for students (Records Day)

Have a great week, fellow Hurricanes!

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. Ettelson

*Speech Pathologist*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

September 29, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Lindsay Ettelson. She has been a Speech Pathologist since 2008, and she has worked in the Brooklyn City School District for the last 11 years. Prior to Brooklyn, Mrs. Ettelson worked in the Chicago Public Schools. Something she loves to do in her free time is take care of her two kids, two and four-years-old. She is also expecting a third little one soon. Something interesting about Mrs. Ettelson is that she is a self-admitted vocabulary nerd. No matter what you are in her office for, you will frequently hear her talking about vocabulary.

Q: What is the most challenging aspect of being a speech pathologist?

A: “I think having so many students in so little time. I want to do more and spend more time with the students.”

Q: What inspired you for this line of work?

A: “I always knew I wanted to go into some sort of helping profession, but I knew nursing or any of that sort was not for me.”

Q: What is a good work memory that sticks out to you?

A: “After graduate school, I moved to Chicago for 10 years, and having that experience then being able to come home back to my family was great.”

Q: Describe your daily interaction with students.

A: “I see 10-15 kids a day. I do small groups and individual groups, whatever works best.”

Q: Which book or movie impacted you the most growing up?

A: “I think the one movie I always go back to is Almost Famous.”

Q: If one wish of yours could come true, what would it be?

A: “If we could find a way for everyone to be accepted and happy. That’s what I want for everyone.”

Q: What piece of advice would you give others?

A: “I would give others the advice to listen to what others have to say; give them time to say what they want, to think what they want to, and to not expect immediate answers and responses.”

Q: Where is the most awe-inspiring place that you have ever visited?

A: “The Vatican. I went to Italy for my honeymoon, and it’s just beautiful; it doesn’t seem real.”

Thank you Mrs. Ettelson for participating in our Staff Spotlight for this week. It was a pleasure getting to know you. We wish you the best of luck throughout your pregnancy and beyond!

Double the Senior Nights

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 28, 2023

Both the girls and boys soccer teams had their senior nights this week, with the girls on Monday and the boys on Tuesday.

The girls soccer team came into their contest with a record of 0-10-1, coming off a loss to Independence. Their opponent Bedford sported a record of 1-8, coming off a loss to Lorain.

Prior to the game, senior Alice Pham was recognized for all of her contributions throughout the years.

In the first half, there was great defense and a few close goal attempts, but neither team could score. However, that changed in minute 32 as Bedford got themselves on the board, jumping out to a 1-0 lead heading into the half.

In the second half, the Hurricanes kept trying to get themselves on the board, and it appeared at times that this would occur. The energy and execution was there, but some missed opportunities would end up dooming their chances of tying up the game. Simply, Bedford’s defense was too much to handle, and the girls could not capitalize. Bedford would go on to secure the 1-0 road victory.

Up next for the girls is Berkshire tonight at 7:00.

On the other hand, for the boys senior night, they faced off against Trinity who came into the match with a record of 4-7, while the Hurricanes stood at 2-9.

Seniors Tyler Morgan, Isaiah Perez, Tyler Pallotta, Mustafa Albaghdadi, and Ihor Muran were honored in front of the home faithful.

Early on in the first half, Albaghadi scored the first goal of the evening in minute nine, giving Brooklyn an early 1-0 lead.

The rest of the half was quiet on both sides, and the score remained 1-0 in favor of the Hurricanes.

In the second half, the Hurricanes had possession of the ball most of the time. Twenty minutes into the half, junior Jadyn DeLuca scored with an assist from sophomore Youssef Elouardighi (a former Publications sports staff member).

Keeping the visiting Trojans off of the scoreboard, Albaghadi added his second goal of the game, putting the game out of reach.

Final Score: Brooklyn 3, Trinity 0

Next up for the boys is a road trip on Monday to face Elyria.

In other Fall sports, the varsity volleyball team will travel to Lutheran West tonight for a 6:00 contest.

Lastly, the varsity football team will play their homecoming game against Independence tomorrow night. Kickoff is at 7:00. Come out and support the boys. Make sure you wear your Blue and Gold.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Nasan Bruce

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

September 27, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Nasan Bruce. Nasan keeps himself busy with working at Wendy’s, and this upcoming year will be his third year in drama club. He is very outgoing, bright, and loving.

Q: What is the best play/production that you have participated in?

A: “The best play was definitely Matilda! I loved everything about that play, even though most people thought it was a mess. Also, I got a main role!”

Q: How do you manage school, work, and choir?

A: “I do as much school work as I can at school so that I barely have homework. It’s not hard to get everything done. For choir, Mrs. Cipriani always tells the class the dates for shows a few weeks prior, so I have time to call off of work when needed.”

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: “I see myself either being an influencer, on a broadway stage, or homeless. There’s no in between.”

Q: Do you prefer to be outside or indoors?

A: “If I had to choose, it would be outside! Being outside with my friends, just vibing is top tier.”

Q: What are you most looking forward to for your senior year?

A: “I’m looking forward to having the most fun I’ve ever had in school because it’s my last year. I’m also looking forward to graduation, obviously!”

Q: If you were able to change something about Brooklyn High School, what would it be?

A: “To be completely honest, I would tear it down, rebuild it, make it less dull, and make it prettier.”

Q: Do you plan on going to college when you graduate? If so, what colleges do you have in mind?

A: “I most definitely am planning on going to college. The college I am looking to attend is Indiana University for their theater program.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “My biggest pet peeve would have to be when people decide to talk to me or try to start a conversation with me while I’m listening to music. If Nikki Minaj is playing, don’t interrupt!”

Q: If you had to play any sport, what would you choose?

A: “If I could pick a sport to play, I would choose football.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “I would say Mrs. Sullivan/Barber is my biggest inspiration. She’s just so real. She’s a baddie; I love her.”

Thank you for your time, Nasan. Have a wonderful senior year!

Homecoming Week is Finally Here

By: BHS News Staff

September 26, 2023

Homecoming week is finally upon us. There is so much going on, so please make sure to check out all of the activities.

First, the homecoming football game and pep rally is this Friday. The pep rally is at 2:00, followed by the football game at 7:00. Make sure to show out to the game versus Independence and a second straight victory for the football team.

Next, for seniors, the breakfast/luncheon is this Friday as well. It will take place in the high school gym. All seniors will be called down after their 2 Gold classes at 10:49. Seniors will miss I.C.E. Block and part of their 3 Blue/lunch periods and will return to classes at the end of 1st lunch at 12:05. If you are a Polaris senior, the bus will leave from the front of the high school at 11:50 and bring you back to BHS at 2:00 in time for the Homecoming rally. Students who go to Polaris are expected to attend their classes.

What about the purchased senior shirts? Senior shirt orders will be delivered mid-week in time for you to wear on Blue and Gold Friday. Stay tuned for an announcement to pick them up when they arrive.

Finally, do not forget to buy your Homecoming tickets! They will be sold at every lunch period this week for $25.

We wish the best of luck to our king candidates and queen candidates!

*King: Miguel Veloz, Santana Sammons, Jackson Diller, Zachary Messeri, Anthony Pytel

*Queen: Isabella Hinkle, Aishah Madera, Idajia Simpson, Madison Orlosky, and Kaitlyn Lenhardt

Homecoming Week Calendar:

September 25-29: Homecoming Spirit Week
September 29: Senior Homecoming Luncheon
September 29: Homecoming Pep Rally
September 29: Homecoming Football Game
September 30: Homecoming Dance

Enjoy Homecoming Week, BHS.

Go Canes!

Staff Spotlight: Mr. DeAngelis

*Brooklyn School Assistant Principal*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

September 22, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mr. Marcello DeAngelis. This is his very first year as the Assistant Principal in the Brooklyn School. He grew up in Parma and graduated from Valley Forge in 2001. He received a degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in History. Then, he went on to receive a Masters degree in Special Education from Graceland University. Something interesting about about Mr. DeAngelis is that he played football at The University of Mount Union, which included two National Championships in 2002 and in 2005.

Q: In your opinion, how supportive is the Brooklyn City School District?

A: “The BCSD is extremely supportive. Being new to the district, the district leadership has been fantastic, providing support as I move into this new role. The teachers and staff have also been extremely supportive.”

Q: Do you feel like there are areas in the Brooklyn School that need improvement?

A: “I think any organization could always improve, no matter how high of a level they are performing. Brooklyn is an extremely well performing district in multiple aspects. It is kind of early to tell at the moment, but our leadership along with our teachers are constantly finding areas to improve on.”

Q: What are some of the goals you have for this school year?

A: “My main goal is to build positive relationships with our students, families, and staff.”

Q: How do you deal with a stressful situation?

A: “In stressful situations, I find having the right mindset is the best tool. Most stressful situations are not that big of a deal in comparison to most real stress. Often, our anxiety gets the best of us. I just try to stay relaxed and take one step at a time.”

Q: What is a meal that you can always find yourself eating?

A: “Pizza!”

Q: What is your most-used smartphone app?

A: “My health app.”

Q: What life lessons do sports teach?

A: “Sports teaches you how to be unselfish.”

Q: What was the most significant life lesson ever taught to you?

A: “Tomorrow is a new day.”

Thank you for your responses, Mr. DeAngelis. We wish you all the best in your first year here in the Brooklyn City School District.

Hurricanes Outmatched

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 21, 2023

The varsity boys soccer team faced off against a Chagrin Valley Conference Metro Division rival, the Wickliffe Blue Devils two days ago. The Canes came in with a record of 2-8, and in their last game, they “earned” a forfeit victory against Garfield Heights. Wickliffe, however, has a record of 2-5 and was coming off of a 3-0 loss to Independence.

With similarities across the board, both teams were evenly matched; however, the game did not go the Hurricanes way.

The first 10 minutes of the first half, the contest was quiet with no offensive action. But then, the Blue Devils went on a rampage and scored four goals within seven minutes. Later on in minute 21, the visitors scored their fifth goal followed by their sixth in minute 30.

They did not stop there. The Blue Devils kept their momentum going by scoring two more goals near the end of the first half, making the score 8-0.

From an early tie to a first half slaughter, the Blue Devils came to play.

The Canes had a chance to score at the end of the first half with a penalty shot, but the kick was just off. Going into the half, the score remained 8-0.

In the second half, Wickliffe went quiet and scoreless, but the Hurricanes finally got on the board with a goal midway through the half from senior Ihor Muran.

The rest of the game did not produce much action, and as time ran out, the Wickliffe Blue Devils secured an 8-1 victory.

The Hurricanes record now stands at 2-8, while Wickliffe improved to 3-5.

Up next, the boys travel to Clearview today for a 5:00 start.

In other Fall sports, the girls varsity volleyball team takes on the Trinity Trojans at home today at 6:30, with the freshman and JV contests beforehand at 4:30 and 5:30.

The girls soccer team will hit the road tonight to face the Independence Blue Devils, beginning at 7:00.

Finally, the football team travels to Beachwood tomorrow night, kickoff is at 7:00.

Go Canes!

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

Senior Spotlight: Idajia Simpson

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

September 20, 2023

Chosen for this week’s senior spotlight is Idajia Simpson. Idajia is on the varsity volleyball team and a part of the varsity cheer team. She is very courageous, hard-working, and helpful. She is also running for Homecoming Queen this Fall.

Q: What career path did you choose at Polaris?

A: “I chose to go to Polaris for Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management because I’ve always wanted to be in the kitchen helping my Omi, Dad, and Grandma.”

Q: Is this your future career?

A: “I don’t plan on following through in the food service industry, but I do have lots of certifications from Culinary that can help me get a job if needed later in life.”

Q: How do you manage your time with school, work, and sports?

A: “Having late arrival and early dismissal does help, but organizing my days and planning ahead helps a lot.”

Q: What are your future plans after high school?

A: “I plan to attend a four-year university to study in Health and Human Services, specifically in either Early Childhood Education or Pediatric Nursing.”

Q: If you could give any advice to the younger students, what would it be?

A: “My advice to the younger students is to stick up for yourself and just know that your feelings and opinions matter. If someone makes you feel like they don’t, then they aren’t your friend.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: “My biggest pet peeve is when my sister steals my clothes and doesn’t ask or give them back.”

Q: You are a first-time cheerleader this year; what inspired you to join the team?

A: “I became a cheerleader this year for my friend, Isabella. She inspired me because she has been a cheerleader since middle school for both football and basketball.”

Q: What was the most challenging year of high school for you?

A: “Every year has made me shed so many tears, but I would say my junior year. I feel your junior year is when everything starts to feel a little more real, and everything really starts to matter. I feel like you also start taking more challenging classes your junior year.”

Q: Why did you decide to come to Brooklyn for high school?

A: “Unfortunately, I did not have the option. My mother decided to move to Brooklyn.”

Q: Out of your entire school career, what teacher has been the biggest inspiration and/or influence to you?

A: “Ms. Barber/Mrs. Sullivan has had the biggest impact on me since my freshman year of high school. I felt like I could always go to her for anything, and she would always listen to what I had to say. She always gave me good advice when I needed it the most.”

Thank you for your time, Idajia. Have a great and memorable senior year!

Check Out Spirit Week!

By: BHS News Staff

September 19, 2023

Homecoming week is upon us, which means Fall, friends, and fun.

As a Hurricane, Homecoming tradition, next week will be Spirit Week, and BHS’s Student Council has a festive week planned for students and staff. Here are the upcoming themes for next week.

*Monday: Beach Day – Get your sunglasses and sandals ready for a beach day at school.

*Tuesday: Barbie vs. Ken – From the big screen to Brooklyn. Choose between your favorite character, Barbie or Ken.

*Wednesday: Color Wars – May the best grade win!

8th – Red
9th – Purple
10th – Blue
11th – Yellow
12th – Orange
Staff – Black

*Thursday: Dress Like Your Grade – Good luck with this one.

8th – Babies
9th – Toddlers
10th – Teens
11th – Adults
12th – Senior citizens
Staff – Your choice

*Friday: Blue and Gold – Blue and Gold Brooklyn Gear

Now, the moment you have all been waiting for. What is the theme for this year’s Homecoming Dance?

MASQUERADE!

Homecoming tickets will be sold during lunch periods and in Mrs. Bader’s classroom before and after school for the remainder of this week and all of next week. Remember, make sure your fees are paid (If your fees exceed $25.00, you must make a minimum payment of $25.00 to Ms. Flanagan before you can purchase a ticket.) and all Final Forms are completed prior to purchasing your ticket(s). Check your emails for reminders.

For any questions, see Mrs. Bader in room 179.

Attention all students in grades 8-12, do you want to make sure that your grade wins the Spirit Trophy? See your grade level Google classroom to sign up to decorate your hallway. Decorations will take place after school on Friday, September 22. Make sure that you are ready to get to work to win the trophy!

Homecoming Season Calendar

September 22: School Picture Day & Meet the Court Assembly
September 25-29: Homecoming Spirit Week
September 29: Senior Homecoming Luncheon
September 29: Homecoming Game & Homecoming Pep Rally
September 30: Homecoming Dance

Have a great rest of your week, BHS!

Staff Spotlight: Mrs. David

*Eighth Grade Math Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

September 15, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Mrs. Abbegael David. This is her very first year in the Brooklyn City School District. Aside from our district, this is her fourth year in teaching. When she is not worried about school, she likes to coach basketball and volleyball, attend sporting events, and spend time with her family and friends. A very exciting fact about Mrs. David is that she is currently pregnant with a little girl who is due in January!

Q: How do you get students engaged in the problem-solving process?

A: “I like to get students engaged by doing interactive and hands-on activities.”

Q: What level of math do you enjoy teaching the most?

A: “I enjoy teaching Algebra and Geometry because there are a lot of ways that Algebra and Geometry can be used outside of school. There are also a lot of careers that use the fundamentals of these two topics every day.”

Q: What do you consider to be the toughest aspect when it comes to students learning mathematics?

A: “I think the toughest aspect about math to students is there are a lot of different variables used that can be confusing and multiple, different ways to solve a problem.”

Q: How do you inspire your students?

A: “I lead by example. I get to know my students more than just their grade in math. I encourage positivity and effort every day in class and push the students to set goals and try every day to achieve those goals.”

Q: When you were a student, what teacher stood out the most to you?

A: “My AP Calculus teacher stood out the most to me because she was available to get help, she was very encouraging, and she would always put a positive quote of the day on the board. Overall, she was always there for me.”

Q: Have you ever traveled outside of the state or country? If so, where are your favorite locations?

A: “I have only traveled out of state. My favorite places are North Myrtle Beach because that was my honeymoon location and Ocean City, Maryland because ever since I was little, I would go there as a big family vacation.”

Q: Where would you relocate if you were forced to leave the country?

A: “Bora Bora or Paris.”

Q: What would you purchase with one million dollars?

A: “I would purchase a vacation house somewhere on a beach as a getaway.”

Mrs. David, we are very happy that you work at BHS. As a teacher and coach, you will have a major impact on your students and athletes. We wish you the best of luck in your first year here and with your pregnancy.

Wildcats Hammer the Hurricanes

By: BHS Sports Staff

September 14, 2023

The Lady Canes women’s soccer team faced off against the Keystone Wildcats last Monday, and the contest did not go as planned.

After graduating a lot of seniors from last year’s squad, most notably Delaney David who is currently playing soccer at Notre Dame College, Brooklyn came into this game with a young and inexperienced team. Winless on the year at 0-7, the Hurricanes matched up against the 0-5-1 Wildcats, giving them some hope.

In the first half, the Hurricanes defense played very well and had some great stops to hold the Wildcats to just one goal, which came in minute 20. Keystone’s defense was just a tad better, preventing the hosts from getting on the scoreboard. The Lady Canes could not score, and after the first 40 minutes, the score was 1-0.

The second half, however, was a different story. The first 15 minutes were pretty quiet with Keystone having possession of the ball most of the time. However, in the next two minutes, the Wildcats scored their second and third goals.

Keystone would keep adding on as in minute 22, they scored two more goals, making the score 5-0. They would then tack on one more goal in minute 26, increasing their lead to 6-0.

The Lady Canes had a chance to score later on; however, the goal was called off due to an offsides. The Wildcats would then punch in one more goal near the end to finish off the victory.

Final Score: Keystone 7, Brooklyn 0

The Lady Canes dropped to 0-8 while Keystone earned their first victory of the season, making their record 1-5-1.

In other Fall sports, the girls varsity volleyball team hosts the Independence Lady Blue Devils tonight at 6:00.

The girls soccer team is back in action at home tonight as they take on the Loudonville Redbirds at 7:00. In addition, the boys soccer team will be on the road tonight against Garfield Heights at 6:00.

Lastly, the varsity football team will travel to Cardinal tomorrow night with kickoff at 7:00.

Go Canes!

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

Suicide Prevention Week

By: BHS Features Staff

September 13, 2023

This week (September 10-16) is a serious week. This week is Suicide Prevention Week.

Nearly 20 percent of students have reported to have suicidal thoughts. In addition, 9 percent of that 20 percent end up making attempts to end their lives. Equally disturbing, 90 percent of the people who have ended their lives from suicide have been known to have some type of mental disorder, such as depression or anxiety.

Suicide awareness activities started in the 1950s, even though the history of suicide has been dated back to the 1700s.

There are many warning signs of someone being suicidal. Some of these include drastic change in behavior, sleeping too much or too little, emotionally eating or lack of eating, talking about being hopeless, being a burden, loss of interest, giving away important things to friends and family, and/or saying goodbye to loved ones.

If you notice someone you know showing symptoms of suicidal thoughts, here are some small but meaningful questions that you can ask.

Are you mentally doing okay?
Do you have any thoughts about harming yourself?

You can also keep them safe from themselves and their trigger points. Encourage them to contact/look for help from an adult, a counselor, or call/text 988.

If you are having thoughts about suicide, please call/text 988 or contact people you trust. There are people who are here to help you in the best possible way.

Remember, you are loved, amazing, and worthy of life!

*Information for this article can be located at the following: