THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part III

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 21, 2026

First, it was Amir and his vet future, followed by Devin and his basketball skills. Then, it was Jeremiah and his love for cars, concluding with Justin and the pigskin.

Let’s continue with day three of tributes to two more senior journalists.

Senior Journalist #5: Nicolle Thomas Garcia

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “My greatest memory from school was every single game I went to. Football games, basketball games, and the people participating at the games.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered for my positive attitude and participating in school spirit, going to sporting events, decorating hallways, and being involved in the school.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “My plan after graduation is to attend Ohio State for Biomedical Engineering.”

Nicolle has been in Journalism for two years. We are going to miss her in the sports group because she was amazing in it. We wish her the best when she goes off to college and hope she continues her positive influence.

Senior Journalist #6: Summer Barnes

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Honestly, I have two great memories that will probably stick with me forever. The first one is getting the nickname ‘Jingles’ from Mr. Holko. He could always hear my purse and key chains jingling down the hallway before I even walked into class. Every time I came in, he would yell ‘JINGLES!’ It seems like a small thing, but it became one of my favorite parts of every school day. My second favorite memory is from junior year when I had lunch with my three best friends: Cleo, Logan, and Ashley. No matter how stressful school got, we always found a way to make each other laugh and make the best of every day. Those are definitely the moments I will miss the most.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want people to remember me as someone who made a positive difference in their lives. Over the past four years, I have formed strong connections with teachers and students, which means a lot to me. One of the best feelings is walking into the school where I have spent the last four years and seeing people genuinely happy to see me. I also want to be remembered as someone who worked hard, stayed focused, and kept going even when times were tough. High school was not always easy, but I always tried to stay positive and be myself through everything.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “After graduation, I plan to work full-time at my current job while continuing my education at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) to become a Dietary Manager. I am excited to keep building a future for myself and gaining more independence along the way. Eventually, I would also love to get into sports journalism, specifically for wrestling, because both wrestling and writing are things I have always enjoyed. Right now, I am still figuring life out one step at a time, but I am eager to see where life takes me.”

Throughout Summer’s high school journey, she faced many ups and downs. She tackled each challenge with strength, resilience, and a positive attitude. She always tried to uplift those around her and be a good influence. High school transformed Summer into a kind, determined, and strong person. Although this chapter is ending, the growth, lessons, and memories from these years will stay with her forever. Summer, you did it. Congratulations!

Congratulations to both Nicolle and Summer. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, the senior journalism tributes will wrap-up.

Have a wonderful day, Hurricane Nation.

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part II

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 20, 2026

Yesterday, we featured Amir and Devin, so let’s continue on with tributes to two more senior journalists.

Senior Journalist #3: Jeremiah Medina

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Freshman year when Nick Chubbs jumped on the table in Study Hall and broke it.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered for my Sports Car.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “Hopefully, go straight into the Automotive industry.”

Follow your dreams, Jeremiah. We all have to sacrifice things in life to get where we want to be, but never let that sacrifice be yourself. Stay true to who you are, keep pushing forward when life gets difficult, and never lose the parts of yourself that make you who you are. No matter what happens, smile.

Senior Journalist #4: Justin Lewis

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Junior year Chemistry because the class was really difficult, but it was a really fun class. I’d say it was worth it because of the funny memories.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered as the guy who showed up, did his thing, and stayed true to himself. To all the underclassmen, your dreams are big, and remember who you are. You only live through high school once.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I plan to attend Heidelberg University to major in Business as well as keep up with my football career to stay true to my identity.”

Congratulations on graduating from high school, Justin. Remember to keep up the good work at Heidelberg University. We hope you have an amazing Summer break, too; it is much needed after such an accomplishment.

Congratulations to both Jeremiah and Justin. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, there will be two more tributes.

Have a wonderful day, fellow Hurricanes.

Tribute to Senior Journalists – Part I

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 19, 2026

Sometimes while living in the present, the hands of time seem to move very slowly. However, when reflecting back on the beginning of the school year in August to where we currently are in May, it appears that time does indeed go by quickly.

For this entire week, the underclassmen writers for The Return of the Eye will pay tribute and say goodbye to our eight wonderful and well-rounded senior journalists.

As these eight seniors finish up their high school careers, it is time to hear from them before they receive their diplomas on Friday, May 29.

Senior Journalist #1: Amir Green

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “Being in Sister Act as a freshman. There were so many insanely-talented people in the Cast, Pit, and Crew. It was my favorite musical I’ve been a part of.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “I want to be remembered as someone who is musically-talented, while also being a caring and thoughtful friend to those around me.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I plan to attend Cleveland State University with a major in Pre-Veterinarian Services and Medicine.”

Amir was a four-year Marching Band member as well as a four-year member of the Pit Band. He joined Journalism this past year and assisted the news group to create some of the best articles to date. We hope Amir does well at CSU as he works with animals and makes the world a better place, one beat at a time.

Senior Journalist #2: Devin Hardwick

Q: What is your greatest memory from your time here at Brooklyn High School?

A: “The time I broke the school record for most points in a basketball game.”

Q: How do you want to be remembered when you leave high school for the final time?

A: “Motivation to the youth and inspiration to not only my peers but to my family, too.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “Going to college (still undecided) and planning to major in Business and minor in Communication.”

Throughout his time in basketball, this ultimate baller has shown us incredible feats on the court. From breaking a school record to becoming the best player of his time at Brooklyn, who knows what other great things will come his way? We sincerely are proud of his successes, and we hope for the best in his future basketball career. Congratulations on graduating from Brooklyn, Devin!

Congratulations to both Amir and Devin. Thank you for being key contributors to Brooklyn High School’s student-led, online newspaper. Best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

Tomorrow, there will be two more tributes. Stay tuned.

Have a wonderful balmy day, Brooklyn.

Rapid Fire: Mr. Taylor

*Study Skills Monitor/Assistant Basketball Coach*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 15, 2026

Q: Fruits or vegetables?

A: “Fruits.”

Q: AAU or high school season?

A: “AAU.”

Q: What’s the best advice that you would give to incoming high school athletes?

A: “Not allowed to be lazy, and if you’re on time, you’re late.”

Q: Greatest strength?

A: “Caring and knowledgeable.”

Q: Greatest weakness?

A: “Time Management.”

Q: How do you handle stress?

A: “Staying calm and thinking through it.”

Q: Biggest goal in life?

A: “Making sure my family is good, no matter what happened to me.”

Q: Lebron or Jordan?

A: “LeBron but Jordan is second.”

{Editor’s Note: False, MJ will always be ranked number one.}

Q: Who is going to win the NBA championship?

A: “San Antonio Spurs.”

Q: Can we finally open the window?

A: “No, absolutely not.”

Have a wonderful weekend, Brooklyn!

Honoring Softball Seniors

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 14, 2026

Last Thursday, the softball team hosted its Senior Night against the Lawrence Upper Lions. The girls were searching for their first win of the season and seemed to have the “upper” (Get it?) hand.

Before the official first pitch, the team honored seniors Delaney Burke, Abigail Cruz, Gianna Garcia, Nicolle Thomas Garcia, Hailey Kekic, and Jayrine Camacho Ramos for their dedication throughout the season as well as their high school careers.

Now, onto the game.

The Lady Canes found their way on base via walks, a lot of them. The Lions’ starter walked 14 batters in the first 1.2 innings. By then, the Hurricanes had already scored 12 runs.

Freshman Jocelyn Vega started the game on the mound for the Hurricanes and only gave up two hits in five innings. The Lions, in total, tallied four runs and that was nowhere near enough to steal a road victory.

The free passes kept coming for the Hurricanes with a seventh grader coming in to pitch for the Lions, and she walked 10 batters in 2.1 innings.

In the end, the Hurricanes grabbed their first victory of the season.

Final Score: Brooklyn 21, Lawrence Upper 4.

Side note: The Hurricanes voted for their fellow teammates to receive awards at the end of the season. The team MVP was four-year member Nicolle Thomas Garcia. She displayed hard work and what it means to be a leader. The Most Improved Award went to freshman Raegan Burke. She held down center field for the Canes. Lastly, the Hurricane Award, given to the girl for the most team spirit, was freshman Zoe Schultz. She came every day to practice with a positive mindset to help guide the team.

The softball season came to an end last night in their Sectional loss to Dalton. Nonetheless, we want to congratulate the girls on their Senior Night victory and wish the seniors the very best of luck in their future endeavors.

Here is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

May 14: Baseball vs. Normandy – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
May 16: Baseball vs. John Hay (11:00)
May 19: Baseball @ Oberlin (5:00)
May 20: Baseball @ Keystone – SECTIONALS (5:00)

Go Canes!

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

Toy Story 5

By: BHS Features Staff

May 13, 2026

First, the King of Pop. Then, the Galaxy. Now, the Buddy Adventure as our movie preview section continues.

Who doesn’t love a childhood classic where all of the nostalgia is brought back to life? Let’s rewind back a bit and take a look at how Toy Story carried our childhood from then to now.

On November 22, 1995, the first Toy Story movie was released, having a bunch of fans going crazy over it. The movie itself received a Special Achievement Academy Award and is known for being the first animated film to be nominated for Best Original Screenplay.

In the first Toy Story, Woody feels threatened when his owner Andy brings home a new high-tech Buzz Lightyear action figure for his birthday. With Buzz Lightyear believing he’s a real space ranger, Woody believes that Buzz is Andy’s new favorite toy, leading to jealousy between the two. After Woody accidentally knocks Buzz out of the window, they both are faced with the crazy neighbor Sid, and they both must work together and return to Andy before his family moves away.

With Toy Story 2 having its big release in 1999, fans gave it as much hype as the first one with there being new characters added to the movie and a whole new story with Woody, Buzz, and their friends facing an unfamiliar antagonist.

With Woody being stolen by a very greedy collector named Al McWhiggin, Buzz Lightyear and his friends plan a rescue mission before Woody is sold to a museum in Japan. But, while Woody is kidnapped, he finds out about his past and finds out there are more toys that belong to his own play set. Jessie and Bullseye are a part of his playset, so Woody comes up with an idea of bringing them home to be Andy’s new toys.

Then, we have Toy Story 3. With Toy Story 3 coming out in 2010, fans waited almost a decade for this movie to be released.

In Toy Story 3, Andy is getting ready to leave for college, and Woody and his friends find themselves heading for the attic but mistakenly wind up on the curb as trash. But Woody’s quick thinking saved him and his buddies, and everyone, but Woody, ended up being donated to Sunnyside Daycare. Unfortunately, the kids do not play nice, so Woody and their friends make a great plan to escape.

Released in 2019, Toy Story 4 follows Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends on a road trip with their new owner Bonnie. Woody reunites with Bo Peep and helps a handmade toy named Forky embrace his purpose. Woody ultimately chooses to leave his friends and Bonnie, sharing an emotional goodbye with Buzz Lightyear and the others to become a “lost toy”. He stays with Bo Peep and passes his sheriff badge onto Jessie.

With all the sequences being created and enjoyed by all, it won’t be the last time you get to see these beloved characters. Toy Story 5 will soon be released in theaters on June 19. In the new movie, not only will you see Woody and friends, there will also be new additions, creating suspense and a threat to the original toys.

In the new Toy Story 5 trailer, it gives a little preview about how modern technology is slowly taking over traditional toys, leading the toys to face their toughest challenge. The old toys may be left and feel forgotten, so in order to be remembered, they must compete with screen time for Bonnie’s attention.

Not only is this new release exciting, but it leads to curiosity of how things will go down in the new movie.

Toy Story 5, here we come!

(Information sourced from Rotten Tomatoes.)

AP Testing With No Resting

By: BHS News Staff

May 12, 2026

It is already mid-May, which means that the end of this school year is very close. However, no one has crossed the finish line yet, so do not stop now.

First off, AP testing will conclude this Thursday. Yesterday was AP Seminar, today is AP Psychology, and Thursday is AP Spanish. Best of luck to all who will be concluding their Advanced Placement classes.

Moving along, this past Thursday, the Concert Band had their final performance of the year with a thematic presence of America as it is about to celebrate its 250th anniversary in a little over 50 days. The night ended with a piece by Robert W. Smith titled, “The Great Locomotive Chase”. This track is based on the attack of the Western and Atlantic Railroad during the Civil War. A big congratulations to all on a show well-done.

Now, the bulk of this week’s news will be devoted to the Class of 2026.

Prom is next Friday, and with 125 students attending this year, it’s expected to be an exciting event at Windows on the River. Be ready to dress formally, take plenty of pictures, dance the night away, and create lifelong memories. At the conclusion of Prom will be Post Prom, so make sure to get plenty of rest the evening before because Fun ‘n’ Stuff is guaranteed to be an exciting yet exhausting adventure into the early morning hours.

Speaking of seniors, the annual Senior Sunset is coming up, too. This event will be held on May 27 and is hosted by the seniors’ parents. Students will have access to the football field and are invited to play games with their friends. Refreshments will be provided as well. This tradition allows seniors to enjoy time with their friends one last time before their names are called to receive their diplomas on Commencement Friday, May 29.

Here at The Return of the Eye, we would like to congratulate all graduating seniors, specifically our senior journalists. Next week, we will have a proper send-off for our senior writers.

Finally, here is the upcoming schedule for May.

May 18: Senior Awards Ceremony
May 22: Prom
May 22-23: Post Prom
May 27: Chromebook/Charger Return & Cap and Gown Pick-up
May 27: Senior Sunset
May 28: Graduation Practice
May 29: Graduation

Have a great week, Hurricane Nation.

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

Senior Spotlight: Rocco Spiewacki

By: BHS Senior Spotlights Staff

May 11, 2026

Chosen for this week’s Senior Spotlight is Rocco Spiewacki. Rocco is funny, chill, and entertaining. He has been in Brooklyn since pre-school and works part-time at Culver’s. In his free time, he likes to golf and go to the gym. After graduation, he plans to pursue a career in Business Management and eventually own his own restaurant. A fun fact about Rocco is that he has been concussed multiple times.

Q: What is one moment from high school that really stuck with you?

A: “My junior year in Chemistry class. It was a hard class, but there were lots of funny moments.”

Q: What is something you learned in high school that wasn’t taught in a classroom?

A: “How to develop a strong routine.”

Q: In what ways do you wish that you had done things differently in high school?

A: “I wish I focused less on what people thought about me.”

Q: What are you looking forward to the most at the end of the school year?

A: “Graduation so I don’t have to wake up every day at seven in the morning.”

Q: If you could meet anyone in the world right now, who would it be?

A: “It would be ‘Perfect Timing’ to meet Sheduer Sanders.”

Q: Would you rather never be able to play golf again or never be able to cook again?

A: “Never cook again. I can find a new career path.”

Q: If you and Mr. Holko participated in a cage match, would you make it out in one piece?

A: “I got me winning all day!”

{Editor’s Note: Rocco would lose quickly and painfully.}

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

A: “Mrs. Berg. She gave me valuable life advice.”

Thank you for your participation in this week’s Senior Spotlight, Rocco. Good luck with owning your future restaurant, as well as the final weeks of your senior year.

Rapid Fire: Mrs. Armaro

*School Psychologist*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 8, 2026

Q: Starbucks or 7brew?

A: “Starbucks.”

Q: Best advice for high school students?

A: “Make sure you’re completing all your work.”

Q: Stairs or elevator?

A: “Stairs.”

Q: Cold mornings or hot mornings?

A: “Warm mornings.”

Q: What is the best way to start your mornings?

A: “Getting a coffee.”

Q: What is your go-to pastime?

A: “Hanging out with my son.”

Q: What is your favorite type of weather?

A: “Fall weather.”

Q: Describe your style in one word.

A: “Comfortable.”

Q: What is your hidden talent?

A: “I don’t have one.” {Editor’s Note: Lame response.}

Q: What is one thing you wish that you enjoyed more?

A: “Staying up late.”

Have a wonderful May weekend, Brooklyn!

Young Bats Making An Impact

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 7, 2026

The hometown Cleveland Guardians sit atop the AL Central with a record of 19-19. Yes, you read correctly that a .500 record is leading the American League Central Division.

Last season, the Guardians’ offense was the second-worst in Major League Baseball, and while they didn’t make any major free agent signings, their internal pieces have come alive to resurrect the offense.

First, rookie sensation Chase DeLauter has sparked the top of the Guardians lineup and filled a major hole in the two-spot. In 32 games, DeLauter is hitting .308 with 6 homers and 23 RBIs. In the first three games of the season, DeLauter hit four home runs, becoming only the second player in MLB history to accomplish this feat.

Cleveland has also heavily-relied on players who have been serviceable for a couple of years, Angel Martinez and Daniel Schneemann. Martinez, a switch hitter, is hitting .270 with 5 home runs and 16 RBIs. Schneemann has come up big, batting .284 with 4 home runs and 14 RBIs. On April 17, in a scoreless game against the Baltimore Orioles in the 7th inning, Schneemann smashed a go-ahead grand slam. Ironically, the Orioles scored six in the 8th inning to win the game.

Another up-and-coming bat for the Tribe is top prospect and 2024 #1 overall pick, Travis Bazzana. Bazzana raked his way through Triple-A Columbus, hitting .287 with 2 bombs and 10 RBIs with a .933 OPS. He has shown great discipline at the plate and hard contact in the zone in 23 major league at bats.

The other bats are still waiting to come around like Steven Kwan, Kyle Manzardo, and Bo Naylor. All-Star third baseman Jose Ramirez is also struggling a tad, too. A catching prospect to keep an eye on if Naylor can’t find his groove is Cooper Ingle, who is tearing it up in Triple-A Columbus.

On the pitching side, the Guardians rotation has shown signs of promise with rookie Parker Messick leading the way with a 2.40 ERA and Gavin Williams having another nice season with a 3.28 ERA. The bullpen, which is supposed to be a strength, has struggled with a 4.16 ERA.

The young bats have been the story to this point, but can the rest of the Cleveland lineup start hitting and make this offense consistently watchable?

To stay updated with the Guards, click on the Cleveland Guardians website.

It’s going to be a great Summer for baseball, so come on down to the corner of Carnegie and Ontario to enjoy many ballgames.

Go Tribe!

Here is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

May 7: Softball vs. Garrett Morgan – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
May 7: Baseball vs. Medina Christian Academy (5:00)
May 8: Baseball vs. Oberlin (5:00)
May 11: Softball @ Bedford (5:00)
May 12: Baseball @ Clearview (5:00)
May 12: Softball vs. Independence (4:30)
May 13: Baseball vs. Cleveland Heights – SENIOR NIGHT (5:00)
May 14: Baseball vs. Rhodes (4:30)

Go Canes!

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

The Mandalorian and Grogu

By: BHS Features Staff

May 6, 2026

First, the King of Pop. Now, the Galaxy.

Most people last Monday were greeting others with the common phrase, “May the Fourth be with you.” Therefore, is it safe to assume that many people are Star Wars fans? If you are, keep reading as a new adventure will be on the big screen in a little more than two weeks.

The new release of The Mandalorian and Grogu will bring you along for the ride and adventure that Din Djarin and his apprentice Grogu have by hunting down imperial remnants for the New Republic, attempting to stabilize the Galaxy.

The Mandalorian is a Star Wars live-action series, and in the upcoming movie, Din Djarin and Grogu are the central duo. Following their journey as a Mandalorian bounty hunter and his Force-sensitive apprentice, the upcoming film depicts the pair tracking missions together, following the fall of the Empire.

With this series being five years after the Return of the Jedi, there is a high likelihood of the new movie showing characters that are very well-known in the Star Wars franchise known as Luke Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, veteran warrior Bo-Katan Kryze, Boba Fett, and everyone’s favorite, R2-D2.

If you are not familiar with the Mandalorian franchise, the entire series is available on Disney+ and Hulu, and it covers all three seasons, including any other Star Wars movies that you might be interested in.

Want to learn more about this historic and epic franchise and how Din Djarin and Grogu join together to take down the imperial warlords? The Mandalorian and Grogu will be in theaters beginning on May 22.

Happy viewing!

(Information sourced from Rotten Tomatoes.)

Teacher Appreciation Week

By: BHS News Staff

May 5, 2026

With May showers already apparent in the Brooklyn community, seniors are down to 13 maximum days until this chapter closes and the next one opens. The week of May 18, The Return of the Eye will highlight all eight senior journalists and send them off with a proper salute.

Now, onto this week’s news.

First, this week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and the BHS staff will be spoiled all week by receiving gifts, food, and letters of gratitude. Remember, we wouldn’t be here without them. Their guidance has led us to the end of the year, so please make it a point to give them some positive words throughout the week.

Regarding the Class of 2026, the annual senior awards ceremony will take place on Monday, May 18. Starting the event, the Honors inductions will be at 6:00 and will include inducting students into the National Art Honor Society, the National Spanish Honor Society, the National Chinese Honor Society, the National Honor Society, as well as the International Thespian Society. Then afterwards, the second part of the program will reveal the winners for all of the local scholarships, academic awards, and Honor/Merit Roll achievements.

Speaking of seniors, any seniors who do not have Mr. Holko for English IV can learn more about graduation requirements this Friday (May 8) by visiting his room (262) during periods 2, 3, and 5. Mr. Ross and Mrs. Bir will be highlighting important due dates and other important information. Please plan on attending one of these sessions.

Moving along, it is time to talk about prom since it will take place on Friday, May 22. Senior Class and Prom Advisor Mrs. Holko is excited about how prom is coming together.

“Leading the prom committee is fun to hear all the ideas, but it can be stressful trying to put all the ideas together. What’s unique about this prom experience is that participants will be going through the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, and appetizers will be served in the aquarium on the way to the ballroom.”

This year’s prom at Windows on the River sounds very exciting, and we cannot wait to be a part of it, building lifelong memories. A big thank you to Mrs. Holko and the group of senior prom committee members.

Finally, here is the calendar for May.

May 4-8: Teacher Appreciation Week
May 7: Spring Concert
May 18: Senior Awards Ceremony
May 22: Prom
May 22-23: Post Prom
May 29: Graduation

Have an amazing first week of May, fellow Hurricanes. Enjoy the sunshine (hopefully).

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