Senior Publications Spotlight #4: Adriana Bragg

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 12, 2023 

Chosen for this week’s Senior Publications Spotlight is Adriana Bragg. She has been a student at Brooklyn for six years. Some of her hobbies include taking naps, going shopping, going on drives, and hanging out with friends. A fun fact about Adriana is that she is ambidextrous, meaning she can do tasks with both of her hands.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “To attend CSU (Cleveland State University) and major is Psychology.” 

Q: Who is one teacher you want to thank for helping you get to this point? 

A: “Even though he doesn’t work here anymore, Mr. Tanski. He was always so helpful and encouraging when I needed it the most.” 

Q: What are you looking forward to the most after high school?

A: “Looking forward to more independence.” 

Q: What made you want to join the Publications class for your senior year?

A: “Because I knew my bestie Morgan was going to be in the class.”

Q: How have you managed to stay motivated all throughout high school?

A: “Naps and caffeine.” 

Q: What is your favorite song at the moment? 

A: “I don’t necessarily have a favorite song; it really just depends on the day and my mood.”

Q: What is the best advice that you would give or have given your younger siblings?

A: “Know your worth.” 

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration? 

A: “My mom because we kind of grew up together since she had me at a young age, and she worked hard to make sure I didn’t go down the same path as she did.” 

Q: Why is Dr. Pepper your favorite drink?

A: “Because it tastes good, and most importantly, it has caffeine which gets me through the day.”

Q: What are you most grateful for? 

A: “My sister because she’s always been there for me, and she’s the only person who can make me laugh and smile the most.” 

We wish you the best in your future, Adriana. Congratulations on your upcoming graduation.

Softball Destroys Bedford

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 11, 2023

The Brooklyn softball team took on Bedford yesterday, and the outlook predicted a competitive matchup; however, the Hurricanes asserted their dominance early and often in front of a very good crowd.

In the top of the first, Bedford had the bases loaded with nobody out and were able to scratch out two runs, giving them an early 2-0 advantage. In the bottom half, Brooklyn quickly came out with two singles and then a two RBI double to tie the game. But, they were not finished as freshman Aurora Coyne hit an RBI triple. It was a rally in the first inning that saw Brooklyn plate six runs to take a 6-2 lead.

The second inning was very much like the first as Bedford scored two more runs off of a couple of walks and singles. In the bottom half, Brooklyn started with three straight singles; the third single brought in a run to make it 7-4. With a runner on third after a stolen base, a fourth straight single brought in two more runs. This inning was all about singles as the Hurricanes added two more runs to take an 11-4 lead.

The hit parade of singles continued in the third as the Bearcats got four straight singles and multiple stolen bases to get three more runs on the board to cut the lead back down to four. The bottom half of the third consisted of a one-out triple and an RBI single to drive in run number 12 for the Blue and Gold.

In the fourth, Bedford was held to no runs despite a runner in scoring position to keep the score at 12-7. The hit parade continued for the Hurricanes as they scored five more runs to make the score 17-7.

Similar to the fourth inning, the Bearcats once again had a runner in scoring position, but after a force out at home, they were held scoreless in the top of the fifth. After two quick groundouts in the bottom half, an infield single and a couple hit by pitches brought in another run, increasing the lead to 18-7.

Just before the sixth inning got underway, it was determined that there was a Mercy Rule, which ended the game. 

Final score: Brooklyn 18, Bedford 7

The girls earned their third victory of the season and continue to improve in all aspects of the game. 

Congratulations, girls!

The varsity baseball team takes on Oberlin at home today at 5:00. Come out and support the team as they look to tally their third win of the season.

Go Canes!

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

Mother’s Day 2023

By: BHS Features Staff

May 10, 2023

As everyone knows, the month of May celebrates all the wonderful moms in our lives. Each year, the second Sunday in May is dedicated as a celebration for all of the sacrifices and beautiful things a mother does on a regular basis. 

This year, Mother’s Day will be celebrated this Sunday, May 14.

The official Mother’s Day holiday started back in the 1900s by the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis, Anna Jarvis. Following her mother’s death in 1905, Anna made a push for Mother’s Day to honor moms because of their selfless love for their children.

After gaining financial backing from states and stores, Mother’s Day became a hit everywhere. In May of 1908, people celebrated the first official Mother’s Day celebration at a Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. That same day also saw thousands of people attend a Mother’s Day event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Anna spent most of her adulthood fighting for equality for women. One of her biggest arguments was that American holidays were biased toward male achievements, so she started a massive letter writing campaign to newspapers and prominent politicians urging the adoption of a special day honoring motherhood.

By 1912, many states, towns, and churches had adopted Mother’s Day as an annual holiday, and Anna had established the Mother’s Day International Association to help promote her cause. 

Eventually, all her hard work and efforts paid off because in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure officially establishing the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

So this Sunday, do not forget to tell the special mom in your life Happy Mothers Day! Even though they are honored one day of the year, they are special and deserving of our love for all 365 days.

If you need any Mother’s Day ideas and gifts, click here. 

Happy Mother’s Day!

{Information for this article can be located at History.com.}

Sports, Teachers, Seniors, and More

By: BHS News Staff

May 9, 2023

A new week means more news. With this school year winding down, what is happening at Brooklyn High School?

First, the Canes of the Week for the week of May 1 are Rajon Foster and Audrena Vega.

Rajon Foster: Track

Rajon is on the Sprint Medley relay team, and he broke the school-record by over two seconds at the Cuyahoga Heights Relays, placing third with a time of 1:42.31. He also finished eighth in the 100-meter dash at the 15-team Independence Invitational with a season-best time of 12.05 and seventh in the 200-meter dash (24.74) as well. Lastly, he is a part of the 4×100-meter relay team that placed fifth.

Audrena Vega: Softball

Audrena pitched an amazing game against Trinity on April 26, recording 13 strikeouts. Audrena pitched the first four innings and then was put back in to finish the game. At the plate, she had her first homerun, too. She is having an incredible season.

Speaking of track, a big congratulations to our senior track members as they were recognized on Senior Night last Thursday: Alex Chiclana-Cortes, Lexi Fecko, Melaine Fernandez, Chavon Holton, Laura Nguyen, and Jenna Young.

Next, this week is Teacher Appreciation Week!

Today, all teachers have signs hung up on their doors, and they will choose the snacks and beverages they want to be delivered to them throughout the day. It is a small token of our appreciation for everything they do to help the students here at BHS.

Also this week will be the final Blood Drive of the year, and it will take place this Friday, May 12.

Who is getting excited for Prom? Ticket pick-up will be this week. See Mrs. Holko when the tickets become available. 

Regarding Friday, May 19, Post Prom tickets ($25) are still available and are being sold at lunch for the remainder of this week. 

Next Monday evening (May 15), the Senior Awards Ceremony will take place in the auditorium. This is always a special night to recognize our seniors and all of their hard work.

And, that is wrap for this week’s news. Stay tuned for more news coming next week. Until then, have a wonderful week, Brooklyn!

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

Senior Publications Spotlight #3: Jaiden Basinger

By: BHS Staff Profiles

May 5, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Senior Publications Spotlight is Jaiden Basinger. He has been a student in the Brooklyn City School District for five total years, first coming here in eighth grade. Some of Jaiden’s hobbies are sports, friends, and napping. One fun fact about him is that he has 11 siblings. What!?

Q: What are your thoughts about graduating? 

A: “I’m ready to get up out of here. I think I’m gonna miss a lot of the people here and the teachers, though.” 

Q: Who is one teacher who you want to thank for helping you get to this point?

A: “Mrs. Velez, she checks up on me a lot. She’s like a second mom, and I really enjoyed being in her class. She always helped me out a lot, and I really appreciate her.” 

Q: How has high school athletics shaped you into the person who you are today?

A: “It just made me realize that losing is not fun at all. Life is similar to basketball; every game is not going to be fair. Sometimes, you’re off. Sometimes, you’re on.” 

Q: Where do you see yourself five years from now?

A: “I see myself either playing college football or pursuing a career in a football-related path.” 

Q: What is one piece of advice a mentor told you during your senior year that you will take with you to college?

A: “Mr. Holko said a gap year is not a wise plan, and it’s just not proven to be beneficial because you will lose motivation as time goes on without being in school.” 

Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?

A: “Just to breathe and that everything will be alright. Also, keep believing in yourself.” 

Q: Who is your idol?

A: “Lamar Jackson! He’s a running quarterback like me, and he matches my play style, so I feel like I can learn a lot from him and what he does.” 

Q: What type of person makes a good mentor? 

A: “Someone who doesn’t prepare you for failure but helps you through failure. Someone who sees your good and someone you look to, no matter what. Someone who will be there for you, no matter what.” 

Q: What is your favorite sports team?

A: “The Cleveland Cavaliers because I grew up watching them, and I like basketball and Donovan Mitchell.” 

Q: What is your favorite food?

A: “Chicken and Alfredo. My mom always makes it, and you can never go wrong with it.” 

Good luck at Notre Dame College, Jaiden. Go make your dreams become a reality.

Spring Sports Update

By: BHS Sports Staff

May 4, 2023

The Spring sports seasons are over halfway done, and there have been some bright spots and some great performances. With baseball, softball, and track all showing improvement, there is a lot of optimism going forward.

Baseball

The varsity baseball team won 19-4 against John Hay last Saturday. Senior Adam Geballa notched his second win of the year on the mound. He struck out six Hornets and limited baserunners. The Canes totaled nine hits and 14 RBIs. It was an all-around great team performance. 

Altogether, this team is playing well and will continue battling for more victories. Their next game is today against Cuyahoga Heights at 4:30. 

Make sure to come out and support the boys.

Softball 

Similarly, the softball team has been showing improvement throughout the season as they picked up a recent win. 

Head coach Sarah Young (a Brooklyn graduate) on her first year at the helm and what makes this team special:

“The 2023 season started strong when nineteen girls came to tryouts. With not having a team last year, I did not know what I was getting myself into and if we would even have a team again this season. The girls who came out had little experience but were eager to learn which made all the difference. Throughout February and March, we began with the basics and gradually improved. Sophomore Audrena Vega and freshman Aurora Coyne both have a grand slam under their belts. The girls on this team have made the season so much fun and uplifting. Each girl wants to learn and become a better softball player, and this shows at practice and in the games. Even though we are still competing now, I am looking forward to next year. We are only going to improve since we are a young team with no seniors. We are excited to continue to grow and build this program for many years to come.”

Freshman Ashlee Rich on what she sees in her young teammates: 

“I feel that the team has worked together well so far, and we have learned from our mistakes and have been able to turn them into opportunities to be better.”

Congratulations, girls. Keep striving for daily improvement. Embrace each moment with confidence.

Track

Last but not least is track. 

Senior Jenna Young (also a Penn State recruit) has built off of her state championship from last season with another impressive campaign. She has set another personal best and school record in the high jump with a height of 5’8″. Her personal-best jump is currently the top jump across all divisions in the state this season. She has also set several meet records at large field invitationals, including the 8-team George Gross Invitational (5’8″) and new records in the high jump, long jump, and hurdles at the 16-team William E. Fisher Invitational.

On the boys’ side, senior Chavon Holton has had an impressive season, including tying the school record in the 300-meter hurdles at the 8-team George Gross Invitational (40.80).  He also has several meet victories in the 300-meter hurdles and 100-meter hurdles, setting a new PR in that event (16.07). 

Other athletes to win events at meets this season include Lexi Fecko in the long jump, Rajon Foster in the 200-meter dash, and the boys’ 4×100 meter relay. Foster and Isabella Simpson stand out as a pair of freshmen sprinters who are just starting what should be great careers.

Track coach Kyle Akins on his team’s improvement and his optimism for what comes next: 

“Overall, I am very pleased with our season and the progress we have made so far in building toward the big meets at the end of the season. Our times have constantly been improving, and our times are going down. We have a group of hard-working athletes who are dedicated to getting better and have been achieving that. We are hopeful to have a few boys returning from injury in the near future and to have a successful stretch run of the season for both the girls and boys.”

Good luck, track team. Continue to set the bar high.

Since it is already May, the Spring sports seasons will be winding down soon, but we cannot wait to see how each sport’s season unfolds.

Go Canes!

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

North Union Farmers’ Market

By: BHS Features Staff

May 3, 2023

The North Union Farmers’ Market is back! 

This upcoming Saturday, May 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., clear your calendar and stop by Crocker Park (Westlake). The market will take place in the Trader Joe’s parking lot.  

From May 6 through December 16, North Union will host this event every Saturday at the same times listed above. You will find farms and food producers with fresh produce, meats, dairy, baked goods, and more.

Parking for these dates can be a tad chaotic, but shoppers are welcome to park in any garage or lot. Free parking is available in the surrounding parking lots near Bonefish Grill, Fidelity Investments, or in the Promenade. Additionally, free 30-minute parking is available in the Detroit Road Garage. For a map to view the garage locations, click here.

The North Union Farmers Market has been a staple at Crocker Park for 18 years, continually offering a plethora of fresh goodies with the continued goal of supporting local farmers and businesses. This market only sells items locally grown right here in Northeast, Ohio.

Each Saturday, there will be LIVE performances along with the numerous vendors. Most of the vendors take cash, credit/debit cards, and even SNAP.

Make sure to come out and support these local vendors because buying locally guarantees your food to not only be fresh but healthy, too. 

For more information about the North Union Farmers’ Market or how to get involved, contact them at (216) 696-3388 or click here.

Summertime is coming, and a farmers’ market is the place to be.   

Honors, Spirit Week, and More

By: BHS News Staff

May 2, 2023

Last Thursday (April 27), the Spring inductions took place for National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, National Chinese Honor Society, and Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica.

This ceremony was held in the auditorium, and it turned out to be a successful event with friends and families in attendance to honor all of the inductees.

Aside from the induction ceremony of new members, the advisors introduced the current members of these societies as well.

NHS: Mrs. Bir

NAHS: Mr. Kasper

NCHS: Mrs. Huang

SHH: Mrs. Holko

Below is a list of all the inductees:

Congratulations to all of the previous as well as new members. Hard work truly does pay off, and you should all be proud of yourselves. 

Next, the Canes of the Week for the week of April 24 were seniors Lexi Fecko and Adam Geballa.

Lexi Fecko: Track

During the Hurricanes tri-meet at Cuyahoga Heights on April 20, Lexi won the long jump and got a new personal record with a jump of 14’ 5”. She also placed second in the 400-meter dash and finished the race with a run of 1:11. 

To end the tri-meet, Lexi’s 4×200 team set a season-best time of 2:03. Keep up the good work and make the most of your final track season.

Adam Geballa: Baseball

Adam brought the team to a victory by pitching in the game against Parma. He pitched all seven innings and only gave up two earned runs. He also struck out nine batters and only walked three. Adam also recorded a hit and two stolen bases. Nice work, Adam!

Next week (May 8-12) is the final Spirit Week of the school year. Make sure to come out in full Brooklyn spirit.

Monday – Dress as something that starts with the first letter of your name 

Tuesday – Royal vs. Rubbish 

Wednesday – Rhyme without a reason 

Thursday – VIP dress like someone famous (book and movie characters, celebrities, or athletes)   

Friday – Color wars 

Did you hear that prom is less than three weeks away? It is approaching quickly. Remember that all post prom tickets need to be purchased by this Friday during lunch. Tickets for Post Prom at Swings n’ Things are $25 per person, and there are waivers that must be filled out. Prom and Post Prom are on Friday, May 19.

Outside of BHS, what is happening in the lower school?

Preschool is holding a Bubble Bash on Thursday, May 4. Preschoolers and their families will create an ocean-themed snack to share. They will also participate in presentations from the Great Lakes Science Center in the auditorium. For morning preschool, the Bubble Bash is from 9:15-11:15 while 12:15-2:15 for afternoon preschool.

Finally, you are invited to the 2023 Brooklyn School VIP Dance!  The VIP Dance is a special event for Brooklyn School students and for an important adult in their lives. It can be mom, dad, a grandparent, an aunt, an uncle, or any other role model. 

The VIP Dance will take place on Saturday, May 13. Students in Kindergarten through Grade 3 will attend from 5:30-7:00. Grades 4-7 will attend from 7:30-9:00.

The theme of the evening is “Let’s Glow Crazy”. The event is free; however, please complete the registration form in advance.

It is hard to believe that May has already arrived. There is a lot going on, so make sure to mark your calendars with all of the upcoming events.

Have an awesome week, Brooklyn!

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

Senior Publications Spotlight #2: Valery Warner

By: BHS Staff Profiles

April 28, 2023

Chosen for this week’s Senior Publications Spotlight is Valery Warner. She has been a student in the Brooklyn City School District for most of her life, dating back to kindergarten. Some of her hobbies include shopping and traveling. One interesting fact about Valery is that she used to want to become a teacher, but now, she has no desire. 

Q: What made you want to join the Publications class here at BHS?

A: “At first, I was forced, but now, I actually enjoy writing, free writing to be more specific.”

Q: As a four-year member of Publications, what has been your favorite aspect of the class?

A: “Getting to set up my own stuff and getting to write how I want. Also, not being told what needs to be in my essay.”

Q: If you had the chance to work in any other Publications group throughout the years, what would you choose?

A: “I don’t think I would choose a different one. I really like what I do (Features articles) and not being limited to what I can write about.”

Q: Describe your trip to Europe.

A:  “Definitely a once in a lifetime vacation, affordable, and you’ll never be able to travel like this again. I don’t think I enjoyed traveling in a big group. Being in a big group was a lot to handle, but the trip overall was great.”

Q: Would you encourage the underclassmen at BHS to experience the Europe trip?

A: “It was definitely an experience. I feel like you need to have that experience, but it’s definitely not a two-time adventure. I think you definitely have to go once.” 

Q: What is a memory from high school that you will always remember?

A: “My weekends with my childhood friends.”

Q. Who is one teacher who you want to thank for helping you get to this point?

A: “ I don’t think I have one specific teacher who has gotten me where I am today throughout the years, but I have had many amazing teachers who helped me along the way.”

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: “I am going to Bowling Green State University for Business, undecided concentration. I want to do something with traveling, like a travel agent or housing marketing.”

Q: What is the best piece of advice that you have ever received?

A: “Probably that you have to do it for yourself; nobody can make you do it.”

Q: If you could go to any other planet, where would you go and why?

A: “I would probably stay here because I’m very uncomfortable with places I don’t know.”

Q: What has been your favorite part of high school?

A: “Probably volleyball.”

Valery, you are great!  We will miss you. Best of luck at BGSU and beyond!

 The Starr Brothers Lead Canes Past Redmen

 By: BHS Sports Staff

April 27, 2023

The varsity baseball team hosted the Parma Redmen last Friday, and after a slow start to the season, the boys were hungry to get their first victory.

Finally playing a complete game, Brooklyn earned its first victory with a convincing 9-5 win over the visitors.

The Hurricanes defense was shaky in the first inning, but starting senior pitcher Adam Geballa got Brooklyn out of the inning by allowing just one run. The defense settled down, and Geballa pitched the entire game giving up eight hits and only two earned runs. He walked three but struck out nine Redmen. 

Fellow senior Anthony Starr (a Muskingum University signee) was the star at the plate. He recorded three hits, including a two-run home run with a towering blast over the left field fence. He was just a triple away from hitting for the cycle. He finished with four RBIs and a walk. 

Sophomore Aiden Starr had two hits, including a triple. He also drove in three runs. Senior Jeremiah Gonzalez recorded two singles and one RBI while junior Jackson Diller, Geballa, and junior Tyler Morgan all had one hit apiece.

Starr felt relief notching that allusive first win.

“The season has been a rocky one so far. Our team has not performed to the best of our abilities, but we have started to figure out what type of team we are, and I’m pretty sure we are confident that we will have better games going forward. I think due to the leadership of the team, I have helped improve the team’s attitude and mindset for games. All together, we have made games and locker room situations better than in the past. Getting our first win and seeing the team celebrate the win is proof of a better culture. The home run was nice, too.”

Head Coach Kevin Sedlacek talked about his team’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity. 

“Our season has been challenging so far. We started the season with two returning seniors out due to injuries received during the Hockey season. Then, we find out that our strongest pitcher (Anthony Starr) had a nagging elbow injury that we needed to let heal. Starr is currently building his arm back up to pitching, getting one inning appearances, but he has not been able to start for us this season. With all of that, I’m proud of the guys and the emergence of Aiden Starr as a top player in the league and in our 9-5 victory over Parma. His brother had a heck of a day at the plate, too. And Adam Geballa also had a tough pitching performance, battling the rain to register our first victory.”

The first victory has been notched. Now, it is time for momentum and more victories going forward.

The next baseball game will be played tomorrow at home against Valley Forge. The first pitch is scheduled for 5:00. Make sure to come out and support the boys.

Go Canes!

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

Vermilion Chocolate Walk

By: BHS Features Staff

April 26, 2023

Looking for an excuse to eat chocolate all day? Well, you do not need one; however, Vermilion’s Chocolate Walk is just the place for you.

This sweet and decadent event will be held on Saturday, April 29, from 12:00-4:00 at Victory Park in Vermilion.

Tickets are now on-sale, so make sure to purchase your tickets in advance to guarantee your spot. Tickets are $25 a person. You will receive a QR code after registration that you will need for check-in. Each ticket includes an event bag, wristband, and map to participating merchants for your samples of chocolate. 

This year’s Theme is Derby Hats, so get creative as prizes will be awarded for the most creative Derby Hat of the Day, along with a map scavenger hunt 

Complete the map given to you at check-in and you will be entered to win the Grand Prize Basket. For every $10 you spend at a participating merchant, you will receive an additional entry for the Grand Basket. 

All proceeds from this event will go towards the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce which helps to improve and support its members, the community, local schools, and charities. 

This event will happen, rain or shine. As we all do in Northeast Ohio during the Springtime, be sure to constantly check the weather and be prepared. 

For more information about the Chocolate Walk, call 440-967-4477.

If you have a sweet tooth, this Chocolate Walk is for you! And do not feel guilty with how many calories you consume because you will be walking, thus you will be burning calories at the same time. 🤣 

Hurricane Happenings

By: BHS News Staff

April 25, 2023

Happy Tuesday, Hurricane Nation.

To start off district news, the Canes of the Week for the week of April 10 were freshman Aurora Coyne and sophomore Aiden Starr.

Aurora Coyne: Softball 

Aurora has made significant improvements these last few weeks with her attitude as well as her leadership. She has helped the team improve and to be competitive. She continues to show her athleticism as she hit two home runs against Trinity and another HR the following day against Hawken. Good job, Aurora. Keep it up!

Aiden Starr: Baseball

Aiden has been solid on the baseball field. He had a good week going 6-12 from the plate with one RBI, one walk, and two runs scored. Keep up the good work, Aiden!

In other heartfelt news, Mrs. Kelly Marsico’s class was able to participate in an event at Hawken High School for Unified Sports Day. This opportunity provided students with different abilities an inclusive space to play sports and interact with each other.

The event was sponsored by the Hawken School District, Empower Sports, Youth Challenge, and the Metzenbaum Foundation. 

After warming up, students participated in different sessions including soccer, football, and multiple track activities. 

The event concluded with the students enjoying a bagged lunch under the sun. 

Every student enjoyed playing a lot of sports and being able to make lots of new friends. What an incredible event for all involved!

Finally, some important reminders:

  • Final Prom payments and guest passes are due by May 1.
  • Post Prom tickets are being sold for $25 during lunch from April 24-May 5. 
  • The Yearbook Sale ends May 31 for anyone wanting to purchase one. Yearbooks are $74.
  • Testing will continue this week for Biology, U.S. History, and Government. Please stay quiet in the halls and respect all of the students who are testing.

Have a great week, Brooklyn!

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

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