THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Winter Sports Preview: Basketball

By: BHS Sports Staff

December 4, 2025

The Winter sports season is underway, and the final previews will showcase the boys and girls basketball teams.

First up is the girls’ basketball team.

After last season was cut short, a new batch of girls have arrived and a new era has begun for this team. The girls have two sophomore leaders in Reese Alonso and Elisabeth Jackiewicz. Alonso was catching her stride last year and is ready to take another step forward after putting in extra work during practice. Jackiewicz has been dedicated for years and constantly sets the tone with her work ethic and attitude.

Head Coach Jerrod Karl is also relying on sophomore Gracie Beane and freshmen Joselyn Vega, Zoe Schultz, Nadiya Torres, and Eva Concepcion to grow their skills sooner than later.

“We are counting on everyone! It is important for the freshmen to learn as fast as they can, and for our upperclassmen, it is crucial for them to lead by example.”

The team’s goals include continuing to rebuild the program by focusing on things that are controllable: Attitude and effort. For Coach Karl, establishing a strong team culture built on hard work, accountability, and positivity will benefit his young squad.

All of these players are eager to learn the game and are very coachable. As they gain experience, the results will show. Simply, this team’s future is bright.

The girls will begin their season tonight as they travel to Beachwood to take on the Bison. Tip off is at 6:00.

Good luck, girls!

Next up is the boys’ basketball team.

Head Coach Jeff Shepherd describes this year’s team as “young and inexperienced”. However, this season should be a very competitive one for the boys as Coach Shepherd demands daily improvement.

“My expectations for the season are to improve each day and to be a very competitive team through the year. We have the pieces to be successful.”

The expected leaders of the team are seniors Devin Hardwick, Jordan Carden, and Hugo Barillas, who are the only three seniors on the roster. Last season, Hardwick averaged 31 points per game, earning First Team All-CVC and second team All-Ohio.

Other players who are expected to play major roles are juniors Braelyn Gardner, Jose Matteo, and Mike Davis, sophomores Mason Vega, Jason Manak, and Willie Moore, and freshman Shaddai Givens.

So far this season, the Hurricanes are 1-2 and are coming off a 62-59 win last night at Chagrin Falls. They will travel to Cloverleaf tomorrow night to face the Colts for a 7:00 tip.

Good luck, boys!

As a sports staff, we are excited to see these squads in action this Winter, especially when they return home in January after the gym’s remodeling project.

Below is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics:

December 4: Girls Basketball @ Beachwood (6:00)
December 4: Hockey vs. Lakewood (7:15)
December 5: Girls Basketball @ Open Door Christian Academy (6:00)
December 5: Boys Basketball @ Cloverleaf (7:00)
December 6: Bowling vs. Benedictine (8:00)
December 6: Hockey @ NDCL (1:30)

Go Canes!

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

Japanese Art

By: BHS Features Staff

December 3, 2025

Even though Christmas is quickly approaching and the anticipation of spending time with loved ones is joyful and soul-cleansing, we are going to shift gears for this week to showcase some Asian art, specifically Japanese.

There are plenty of aesthetically-pleasing works of art in a variety of genres at Cleveland’s Museum of Art. Starting on December 7, the Cleveland Museum of Art will allow visitors in for free to view a wide variety of Japanese art.

During this time, there will be multiple galleries featuring recent pictures, treasures, and dialogue from a world-renowned collection of Japanese art.

These exhibits are exclusive. Be prepared to see five, small-scale Nabeshima dishes encompassing the variety of pottery artists in Northern Kyushu throughout the 1600s and early 1700s. Additionally, learn about a complex pair of early 1600s screens introducing European traders to the port city of Nagasaki. And of course, much more.

Below are some of the items that visitors will be able to view and learn about.

Gozu Tennō (Ox-Headed Plague Deity): 1100s

Small Dish (Kozara) with Cherry Blossoms in Baskets: 1670-1710

Zaō Gongen: 1100s

The Cleveland Art Museum consistently shows its hidden treasures and art in addition to modern technology and new innovations. Japanese paintings, drawings, landscapes, portraits, and a variety of other artwork will also be showcased, beginning on December 7.

Yes, Winter is here (officially on December 21), and Christmas music and decorations are everywhere. But, if you need a break from the Hussle and Bustle of the season, head to the Cleveland Art Museum to view featured Japanese art and much more. Remember, admission is free.

Merīkurisumasu (メリークリスマス)!

The Cold Arrives

By: BHS News Staff

December 2, 2025

As December comes in with vengeance and the snow decides to drop in droves, we would like to thank Dr. Caleris for today’s snow day. Hopefully, there will be more in the near future.

With 14 school days remaining until Christmas vacation and the conclusion of the first semester, there is important news to cover.

To begin, the band arrived home late last Wednesday with many fond memories of their trip to Walt Disney World. It was a busy and exhausting adventure but also productive and entertaining.

Speaking of band members, congratulations to senior Adam Cowper who will be committing to Indiana Tech University to further his academic and bowling career. His signing day will be Wednesday, December 3, in the Board Office. Congratulations, Adam!

Next week is Spirit Week, so please see the schedule and themes below to start planning ahead for this festive, annual tradition.

Moving on, the first semester final exam schedule was released, and here is a look of what is in store for December 17-19.

With limited time remaining, please turn your work in on time, get tutoring from teachers or peers, and be present in school. No regrets with academics or Santa Claus may have to put you on the Naughty List.

Finally, here is the upcoming December schedule:

December 2: Hockey Picture Day at the Recreation Center
December 3: Baseball Informational Meeting
December 5: Polar Express Parents Night Out
December 8-12: Spirit Week
December 17-19: First Semester Finals

Take advantage of your snow day. Help a neighbor out with shoveling their driveway, build a snowman, go sledding, and partake in a snowball fight. You are never too old to be a kid.

Have a warm and wonderful week, Brooklyn.

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

Let’s Eat!

By: The Return of the Eye Staff

November 25, 2025

The leaves are falling, the weather is cooling, and the best time of year is here: Thanksgiving!

More often than not, families get together to celebrate thankfulness, watch football, and stuff their faces/bellies with the best homemade dishes.

Everyone has their favorite Thanksgiving foods, whether it is turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, macaroni & cheese, pumpkin pie, etc. It is difficult to narrow down the favorites, but that is what we are going to do.

After much thought and reflection, it is time to take a deep dive into The Return of the Eye’s favorite Thanksgiving foods.

AMIR

Main Dish – Pernil with Rice and Salchicha
Side Dish – Potato Salad with Diced Eggs
Dessert – Rice Pudding with Cinnamon

DEVIN

Main Dish – Honey Baked Ham
Side Dish – Grandma’s Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Dessert – Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream

JEREMIAH

Main Dish – Macaroni and Cheese
Side Dish – Cabbage with Bacon Bites
Dessert – My Homemade Banana Pudding

ANKITA

Main Dish – Lasagna
Side Dish – Macaroni and Cheese
Dessert – New York Cheesecake

BEN

Main Dish – Honey Baked Ham
Side Dish – Crispy Stuffing
Dessert – Apple Pie with Ice Cream

RAYNA

Main Dish – Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Side Dish – Sauerkraut
Dessert – Grandma’s Pistachio Pudding

JUSTIN

Main Dish – Brown Sugar-Glazed Ham
Side Dish – Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Dessert – Warm Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream

NICOLLE

Main Dish – Pasticho (Venezuelan Lasagna)
Side Dish – Empanadas
Dessert – Flan

SUMMER

Main Dish – Loaded Thanksgiving Turkey with Homemade Gravy
Side Dish – Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Dessert – Apple Cider Crème Brûlée

JACOB

Main Dish – Roasted Turkey
Side Dish – Bob Evans Mashed Potatoes
Dessert – Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

MR. HOLKO

Main Dish – Turkey (Dark Meat) with Gravy
Side Dish – Grandmother-in-Law’s Sausage Stuffing
Dessert – Rittman Orchard’s Caramel Apple Walnut Pie

Is it Thursday yet? Our mouths are watering in anticipation for the smells, tastes, and post-meal naps.

What are your go-to Thanksgiving foods? Please share them in the Leave a comment section below.

May this season of Thanksgiving be a reminder to not only express gratitude in words but to live by it on a daily basis.

We wish you all the very best Thanksgiving!

Senior Spotlight: Abigail Cruz

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

November 21, 2025

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Abigail Cruz. Abi’s plans after high school are to go to college and major in Psychology or Graphic Design. Some things she likes to do in her free time are work and train for sports. A fun fact about Abi is that she may seem like a bubbly person, but she does not like talking to many people, keeping to herself a lot.

Q: What grade do you think was the most difficult, and how did you overcome it?

A: “Junior year was the most difficult. There was a lot of preparation for it, like becoming a senior and getting ready for senior year, altogether. There were also a lot of distractions, and I cut everyone off so I could focus on myself.”

Q: If your high school life was a reality TV show, what would it be titled?

A: “My name, Abi.”

Q: What is the most nervous aspect about graduating from high school?

A: “Leaving all of the underclassmen that I became close with and leaving the teachers I have bonded with. It all seems like a ‘full circle’ moment, and it is kind of sad but sad in a good way. My sister is a freshman, so it makes it harder.”

Q: Are you more likely to be early or late?

A: “I feel like I am always on time. Never too late, never too early. I grew up with that family that was always late, so I had to always be early, or I was going to be late.”

Q: If you could eat any food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: “My grandma’s Sancocho, which is basically a type of stew.”

Q: What is your biggest regret in life?

A: “Not speaking to more people. I wish I had made myself more ‘known’ and put myself out there more. I am a very closed-off type of person, especially now more than ever.”

Q: What is your favorite season of the year?

A: “The Spring is the perfect time of year for me. Not too hot, not too cold.”

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

A: “Mrs. Velez. When I first got here, she was a very good person. She knows a lot of my family, and she is always there for me, no matter what. She is sort of an aunt to me.”

Thank you so much for your time, Abi. We hear there is a certain university in Texas awaiting your arrival. Hook ‘em Horns!

Winter Sports Preview: Bowling & Hockey

By: BHS Sports Staff

November 20, 2025

Winter sports have arrived, and all of the teams are working on their craft to prepare for the next four months.

To start, the Winter preview will be Bowling and Hockey.

First up is the Bowling team, a squad coming in with high expectations once again after returning senior Adam Cowper, a two-time state tournament qualifier.

Head Coach Steven Prusak knows what his squad is capable of and is excited for what could be a memorable season.

“From what I have seen in practice this year, I expect this team to make districts and on to the state tournament.”

The bowlers are led by seniors Cowper, Ryan Hilcu, Amara Beasley, and Jacob Barrett, plus junior Kadence Szmahlo and freshman Alex Cowper. Their strength is having their best bowlers, the Cowper brothers and Hilcu, at the 3, 4, and 5 rotational spots.

The Hurricanes have had a strong take-off to their season after defeating Garfield Heights. They are hoping to continue their quest enroute to a state title.

Good luck, bowlers!

Next up is the Hockey team, a team that is in full rebuild mode after graduating nine seniors from a year ago. With nine new roster spots bring nine new skaters.

Head Coach Mike Wrost hopes his new and young squad can develop quickly and efficiently.

“Expectations for the season are tempered by our youth and lack of hockey experience, but the dedication of the players during practice and off-ice training sessions will allow the team to improve throughout the season.”

The key players returning include juniors Kyle Morgan, Gio Garst, Ben Denovchek, and sophomore Gaven McCanelley. Morgan, having the most hockey experience and the ability to be a difference-maker, is looking to lead and create stability. This team will be challenged early on, but they are striving for progress and growth.

Coach Wrost is looking for his new players to make a difference as well, especially in the net.

“In the net will be Dominick Rice, who has committed to learning the goalie position and has shown strong composure between the pipes.”

Want to watch Hurricanes hockey? Come out to the Brooklyn Recreation Center on Thursday evenings to support this team.

We wish both teams the best of luck this season.

Go Canes!

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

Magic of Lights

By: BHS Features Staff

November 19, 2025

You probably have started seeing Christmas lights hung in the neighborhood in addition to hearing Christmas music in the stores. This simply means that Christmas is on the way.

What better way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season than by taking the family to the Magic of Lights Wonderland Walk?

In past years, this holiday tradition has been strictly by vehicle, but now, there is a new, beautiful walk-through experience with amazing holiday scenes, beloved characters, and mesmerizing digital animations. Patrons can now walk through this beautiful scenery beneath the shimmering light tunnels, huge displays, and immersive environments that really encapsulate the spirit of this beloved season.

Whether you are sipping on some hot cocoa, snapping memorable pictures, or even soaking in the glow, Magic of Lights Wonderland Walk is a new tradition waiting to be seen and enjoyed by all.

After spending recent years at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds in Berea due to having a larger display and better traffic flow, this local and new walk-through tradition is now returning to Victory Park in North Ridgeville from November 27 (Thanksgiving) through January 3.

Tickets are valid anytime after purchase, as long as they match the selected time frame. Gate pricing is not available until the Magic of Lights opens on Thanksgiving evening at 6:00.

For ticket pricing options, dates, and times, please visit Magic of Lights.

Most of us will gain significant weight next Thursday, so walking through a Christmas wonderland may be the best, post-meal solution.

The Magic of Lights is full of joy, fun, family, and Christmas love. Do not miss out on this exciting opportunity.

Disney, Here We Come

By: BHS News Staff

November 18, 2025

Only six more school days remain until Thanksgiving break, but a certain group of students have a few less.

A tradition that happens every four years, the BHS marching band will be heading down to Orlando, Florida, to perform and to explore the magical landscape of Walt Disney World.

Senior band member Amir Green is very excited about this upcoming trip.

“I have been to Disney many times, but with all my friends there, it’ll definitely be the most memorable,” stated Green.

Throughout the six-day trip (November 20-26), the marching band will visit Disney Springs, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and of course, Magic Kingdom, where they will perform on the morning of November 24. Green is most excited for Animal Kingdom, which seems to be a favorite amongst the band members.

What a great opportunity for these students. Disney brings out the inner-child in all of us, so we wish everyone a safe, memorable, and wonderful time in the “House of Mouse”.

Moving on, seniors wrapped up their mock interviews last week, and they did a great job with preparation, attire, and persuasive communication.

Below are the seniors who were hired for their “positions”.

Ashlee Rich – Restaurant Manager
Anaya Abdallah – Registered Nurse
Ryan Hilcu – Marketing Director
Ankita Monger – Physical Therapist
Justin Lewis – Social Worker
Saevonh Holton – Athletic Trainer

Congratulations to the seniors who were hired for their mock interviews. As a reward for their hard work and dedicated professionalism, Mrs. Holko is going to treat the winners to Chick-Fil-A breakfast during their second period class tomorrow.

Finally, as November continues to fly by, the second quarter is closer to an end. Students, be sure to stay on top of your grades and do not fall behind. If you have failed one of the first two quarters, you must pass the midterm exam to earn the credit for that class. Simply, DO YOUR WORK ON TIME!

Here is the remaining November calendar:

November 18: First Ring Student Leadership Field Trip
November 20-26: Marching Band Disney World Field Trip
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break

Have a wonderful week, Brooklyn.

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

Staff Spotlight: Miss Kubek

*7th Grade Social Studies*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

November 14, 2025

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Miss Carly Kubek. This is currently Miss Kubek’s first year in Brooklyn and teaching altogether. Previous to working here, she student-taught fifth graders at an elementary school in Bowling Green. Some things she likes to do in her free time are run, play the piano, and read. A fun fact about Miss Kubek is that she can play the piano, guitar, and saxophone.

Q: If you could have another job outside of education, what would it be?

A: “I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher at a young age. If I had to choose something else, I would say something in the medical field or something where I could give back and help.”

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: “Bowling Green State University.”

Q: What is your favorite college memory?

A: “I got to study abroad. Being able to travel and see other countries was the best.”

Q: What is one piece of advice that you give to students, regardless of the situation they are in?

A: “Having a positive attitude can get you pretty far. If you do not like the situation that you are in and you have a positive attitude, then you can try to push through and get through it and find ways to make things better.”

Q: What is your life’s motto?

A: “Ask more questions. I think that a lot of us tend to jump to conclusions, and we are not very open-minded. It is always good to stay curious, but ask those questions you need to ask. You will not know until you ask.”

Q: What was your biggest setback in life? How did you get through it?

A: “Mental health. Trying to do my best for everyone else, while still trying to do the best for myself. I learned to navigate through some mental health struggles by figuring out how to gain some independence, while still relying on my support system and learning how to do things on my own.”

Q: What is your favorite activity to do when the weather gets colder?

A: “Play board games because I like to do things with my friends. Card games are really fun, too.”

Q: Do you prefer a short or a long winter?

A: “Shorter because I enjoy being outside.”

Thank you so much for your time, Miss Kubek. We wish you all of the best during your first year here in Brooklyn. And, the next time you visit BGSU, please bring back Pollyeyes for us!

Shariah Shining at Canisius

By: BHS Sports Staff

November 13, 2025

Now that collegiate hoops has officially begun, it is important to shine light on a Brooklyn alumni who is making a name for herself in Division I Women’s Basketball.

Shariah Gailes, a 2023 Hurricane graduate, is making headlines at The University of Canisius, located in Buffalo, New York.

In high school, Gailes finished with 1,020 career points and a school-record 1,101 career rebounds. She also held the Brooklyn High School record for most points scored in a game (43) and still holds the most rebounds recorded in a single game with 29. Additionally, she was a two-time All-District honoree, a three-time team MVP, and an All-Ohio Special Mention after her senior season.

Gailes used her time here at Brooklyn to help her get through all of the current “hoops” that college presents.

“Brooklyn prepared me to compete and to handle different pressures and stressors at the same time,” stated the junior forward.

She spent her time as a freshman at The University of Illinois Springfield (Division II) where she won the UIS Female Rookie of the Year, averaging 9.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

She later transferred to Canisius for her sophomore season, and in 29 games, she nearly averaged a double-double with 9.1 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, ranking her third in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in rebounds.

Gailes has built a strong work ethic, along with making strong connections in college.

“My college experience has been very fun and successful, on-and-off the court. I have met a lot of different people throughout these three years,” Gailes stated in her recent phone interview.

Currently through three games this season, she is averaging 12.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Just two days ago against Syracuse, Gailes led the way in scoring with 22 points, shooting 54 percent from the field.

She hopes that her team can continue their growth to see sustained success and to ultimately win the MAAC.

“My goal for this team is to return to the MAAC championship and stay for the entire week!”

Shariah, Hurricane Nation is rooting for you, and we hope your team keeps fighting from start to finish. You make all of us proud.

Go Golden Griffins!

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

Cleveland Christmas Connection

By: BHS Features Staff

November 12, 2025

Even though Thanksgiving is two weeks from tomorrow, Christmas is quickly approaching, which means a lot of opportunities and fun events are on the way.

Christmas connects people with a special bond filled with joy, happiness, and smiles, so why not come out to the I-X Center for a little Christmas magic? The I-X Center is hosting Cleveland’s Christmas Connection, a shopping and gift sale to start your Christmas season off on the right foot.

Cleveland Christmas Connections is a very big event filled with a bunch of people anticipating this religious holiday. The event will have people selling their products or food in addition to a cookie decorating class for children held by Allie’s Sweet Tooth. Santa Land will also be there for kids to visit Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. Make sure your children bring their Santa letters, so they can mail them to the North Pole.

With more than 550 exhibitors, Santa Land, Tinseltown Train Area, and an appearance by Karolyn Grimes, the actor who played ZuZu in the holiday classic film It’s a Wonderful Life, you will not want to miss this year’s Cleveland Christmas Connection.

This three-day Christmas gathering will take place on Friday, November 21, from 10:00-7:00. On Saturday (November 22), it is open from 8:00-7:00. On Sunday (November 23), the final day, times will be from 10:00-5:00.

For those who want to be the first to shop, there is early bird shopping on November 21 from 8:00-10:00 with limited tickets available. Online purchasing only, early bird tickets cost $20.00, which includes vendor discounts, a shopping tote, and a first look at product inventory.

Other pricing is as follows:

Adults (at the door): $14.00
Adults (advanced online only): $12.00
Children (ages 12 & under at the door): FREE
Groups/Bus Sales (15 or more): $10.00
Groups (15 to 39 people): One free ticket
Groups (40 or more people): Two free tickets

It is that time of year for reflection, music, and meaningful gifts, so please stop by the I-X Center for Cleveland Christmas Connection and have a blast shopping, making memories, and embracing the Christmas Spirit.

{Information sourced from Cleveland Christmas Connection.}

Early Snow?

By: BHS News Staff

November 11, 2025

The snow could not have waited until turkey break? Geez, Mother Nature is being extremely selfish right now.

Before you get bundled up for what appears to be a long Winter in the making, it is time for the news.

First and most importantly, today is Veterans Day, and it is important to acknowledge the history on why November 11 is such a significant day in history. World War I ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918; therefore, Americans use this day to honor and remember all of the sacrifices made during this deadly war and the wars that followed. Be sure to thank a veteran today because without their sacrifices, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms that we have today.

Next, seniors this week in Mrs. Holko’s College and Career Success class will participate in mock interviews to prepare for future job interviews and employment opportunities. Be sure to look out for some sharply-dressed seniors and wish them the best of luck in practicing for their futures.

Attention all Fall sports athletes, the Fall Sports Banquet is tonight at 6:45 in the Field House. Please come well-dressed, ready to eat, and to commemorate the first sports season of this school year.

Moving along, the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) will be visiting the Cleveland Museum of Art tomorrow. Museums provide a witness to firsthand skills, emotions, and ideas that artists pour into their work. To attend, make sure that your final forms are filled out before the permission slip deadline. For more information about the field trip, please see Mr. Kaspar.

Next, to all non-Polaris juniors, the Polaris Career Center is offering three senior-level programs for the next school year. They are as follows: Robotics, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Nail Technician. If interested, please email Mrs. Bir for more information.

A final reminder that the Brooklyn High School 50/50 Night at the Cleveland Charge basketball game will take place this Friday, November 14. Tickets for the game will be $10 and raffle tickets will be available at the game, too. We hope to see you there!

Here is the early November calendar:

November 11: Veterans Day & Fall Sports Awards Banquet
November 12: NAHS Cleveland Museum of Art Field Trip
November 14: Cleveland Charge Partnership Basketball Game
November 26-28: Thanksgiving Break

Have a productive and “warm week,” Brooklyn.

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