THE RETURN OF THE EYE

Hardwick Makes History

By: BHS Sports Staff

December 11, 2025

After a slow start to the season, the boys basketball team is on fire and is playing really good basketball.

Last Friday, the Hurricanes (1-2) travelled to Cloverleaf to take on the 1-0 Colts. The Hurricanes were coming off their first victory of the season when they defeated Chagrin Falls, 62-59, last Wednesday. It was now time for two straight victories.

Brooklyn came out strong in the first quarter, scoring the first five points of the contest while playing excellent defense for a 16-8 lead after one.

The Hurricanes continued playing well in the second quarter, as they outrebounded the Colts and forced numerous turnovers that led to easy transition baskets.

At the break, the Hurricanes held a 14-point lead over Cloverleaf, 36-22.

The Hurricanes opened the third quarter on a 21-5 run, giving them the largest lead of the game at 57-27 and leaving no doubt on their pending victory. The Colts began to claw their way back, making things a little more interesting, but Brooklyn still held a 26-point lead with eight minutes to go.

In the final quarter, senior Devin Hardwick made history as he scored his 1000th point. The team then cruised through the final minutes to secure their second win of the season, building momentum as Conference play looms.

Final Score: Brooklyn 81, Cloverleaf 59.

Hardwick led the way in scoring with 26 points, and junior Braelyn Gardner tallied 21 points. Freshman Shaddai Givens added 15 points, while junior Jose Matteo chipped in with 13 points.

This victory served as well-deserved revenge as the Hurricanes fell 71-65 the last time these two teams met.

Congrats to Devin and the rest of the Hurricanes’ basketball team.

Looking ahead, the boys will travel to Beachwood this Saturday to take on the Bison. Varsity tip-off will be at 12:15.

Additionally, we are less than a month away from the much-anticipated home opener on January 3 against Cuyahoga Heights in the newly-renovated gymnasium.

Below is the upcoming schedule for Brooklyn Hurricanes Athletics.

December 11: Hockey vs. North Olmsted (7:30)
December 12: Girls Basketball @ Cuyahoga Heights (6:45)
December 13: Bowling vs. Padua (8:00)
December 13: Boys Basketball @ Beachwood (12:15)
December 15: Girls Basketball @ Christian Community (6:30)
December 16: Girls Basketball vs. Fairview (7:15)

Go Canes!

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

Skating in the 216

By: BHS Features Staff

December 10, 2025

Thanksgiving smoothly passed by, and now, it is time for sled riding, snowball fights, and ice skating.

The cold weather keeps many inside, but ice skating with family and friends, while enjoying the snow and magical lights, is something Clevelanders love to do. Simply, go downtown and show off your ice skating skills.

This month, Cleveland’s ice skating rink is open to the public, and it is located at Public Square. The rink opened on November 28 and will stay open through February 1. During this colorful experience, there will also be warm and tasty food/drinks in addition to a light show and a live band.

Public Square’s ice skating rink offers a festive and seasonal downtown experience with affordable skating and an oval rink that’s ADA accessible, allowing up to 150 skaters in the rink at one time.

For ticket purchases, guests can only buy them in person. There will also be no cash sales; only Credit/Debit/Apple Pay will be accepted. For an individual, a ticket costs $15, which includes the skate rental. There is also a 10-pack ticket package for $130. This will also include the skate rental.

Ice skating is one of the best Winter activities, but it comes with a lot of thrill and, unfortunately, danger. So, be cautious of bad skaters to avoid injury before Santa Claus comes to town.

Cleveland is a beautiful city, especially during Christmastime. Take some time to bask in the cool air and colorful sights by enjoying an evening on the rink.

If you do explore this beautiful skating rink, be safe and watch out for Mr. Holko. He loves ice skating, but he stinks at it. He can go fast in a straight line but cannot stop. Do not be one of his victims!

Christmas Cheer

By: BHS News Staff

December 9, 2025

Christmas is coming, and there is no reason to steal this magical holiday as the Grinch did. Instead, embrace it by getting into the holiday spirit, both at home and here at school.

To begin this week’s news, be ready to bring out your holiday spirit. Mrs. Bader and the Student Council set up spirit week for the high school. Here are this week’s themes.

~~Monday ~ Pajama Day~~
Tuesday ~ Crazy Whoville Hair Day
Wednesday ~ Winter Wonderland Whiteout
Thursday ~ Class-Assigned Christmas Movie Attire
Friday ~ Deck the Halls in Ugly Holiday Attire

Fellow Hurricanes, be festive this week.

Moving forward, this Saturday (December 13), the Brooklyn Music Department will be performing their annual holiday concert with the high school chorale starting at 7:00, followed by the high school band. The 5th and 6th grade band as well as the 7th and 8th grade band will perform earlier that day at 2:30 and 4:30. This concert is a great precursor to the wonderful Christmas music ahead.

Next, the first semester final exams start next week, December 17-19. Make sure to study and arrive at each final with a charged Chromebook. Also, take a look at the schedule below to know where you are supposed to be.

Speaking of exams, there will be optional study sessions from 8:00-9:00. If you know you are struggling with a topic and need some extra time to study and learn, take advantage of this opportunity.

Finally, the high school’s main gym renovations are nearing completion. The very anticipated home opener/alumni night will be held on January 3, 2026. Be sure to show up to support the boys’ basketball team and check out the brand new gym as they look to take down the Cuyahoga Heights Red Wolves.

Here is the upcoming December schedule:

December 8-12: Spirit Week
December 13: Holiday Concert
December 17-19: Semester I Finals
December 20: Christmas Vacation Begins

Have a positive, safe, productive, and warm week, Brooklyn.

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

Staff Spotlight: Miss Klesta

*7th Grade ELA Teacher*

By: BHS Staff Profiles

December 5, 2025

Chosen for this week’s Staff Spotlight is Miss Alexa Klesta. This is currently Miss Klesta’s first year in the Brooklyn City School District, but she has been teaching for a total of four years. Before coming to Brooklyn, she taught ELA and Social Studies for grades 6-8 in the Cleveland Schools, specifically at William Rainey Harper. Some things Miss Klesta likes to do in her free time are hanging out with her dog Athena, reading, and watching TV. A fun fact about her is that this is the first year she does not have a sibling in the grade she is teaching. She has a sister who is 10-years younger and a brother who is 14-years younger.

Q: If you could have any school pet for your classroom, what would it be?

A: “A koala bear because they are very cuddly and cute or a manatee because they are very lazy.”

Q: Why did you choose to become an ELA teacher?

A: “Originally, I did not want to go into education at all, which is funny because my older sister is a teacher. I did not want to follow in her footsteps as I had already done that for a long time. It was not until my junior English class when we had a project that required us to teach a 75-minute lesson on old literature that everything shifted. My teacher at the time was not much of a people-person and never shared anything about himself. But after this project, he pulled me aside and told me that I would make a great teacher someday. That moment completely changed my perspective. I was in eleventh grade with no idea of what I wanted to do, and he helped me see what I truly wanted. What he said meant a lot to me.”

Q: How would you describe your first group of students?

A: “My first group of students was an interesting bunch. They actually graduated last year, and I went to a few of their graduations in Toledo. They were challenging, but watching their progress and growth and seeing who they grew up to be was amazing. They definitely gave me a run for my money in my first year. This year’s group is fun, diverse, and wonderful. They remind me a lot of myself in school, sometimes not pushing myself enough but always persevering.”

Q: What do you think this school’s greatest strengths are?

A: “The input and feedback I receive as a teacher, the coziness of the environment, and how welcoming everyone is. I also absolutely love my seventh-grade team.”

Q: If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

A: “I always wanted to be an actress because I am a little dramatic. During the first weeks of school, I tell students I am like Tinker Bell; I need attention to live. Acting was my childhood dream.”

Q: If you were a fruit, what would you be?

A: “A pineapple. On the outside, I can be intimidating because I am tall and a little prickly. But once you get to know me, I am as sweet as can be.”

Q: If your life had a theme song, what song would you pick?

A: “The Friends theme song, ‘I’ll Be There for You’. Friends is my favorite show. My favorite color purple is even the color of the door in the show. My friends mean a lot to me. I want to be a good friend, colleague, and family member.”

Q: Would you rather have a white Christmas or a warm Christmas?

A: “Warm Christmas. I am terrified of snow, and I hate driving in it.”

Thank you for your time, Miss Klesta. We are grateful to have you in the Brooklyn City Schools, and we look forward to seeing the many ways you will continue to inspire your students for years to come. Merry Christmas!

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.}