Brooklyn Cares

  By: Normeze Rivera and Savannah David

December 11, 2019

Brooklyn Cares is a way to help local families during the holiday season. Families reach out and the Brooklyn City School’s staff helps purchase what each specific family needs. 

Brooklyn Cares began back when Roadoan Elementary School was still around.

“The teachers would bring gifts for each other that they’d think they would’ve liked as a child. Once we all opened them, we would send it to an organization,” Mrs. Marquis explained. 

After years of exchanging gifts and giving it to an organization, the teachers noticed how help was needed in our own community. Then, in 2002, Brooklyn Cares became an annual event.

“Our main priority is to care for families,” Mrs. Marquis stated.

Different families ask for different items. Some ask for food, while some may ask for clothes. Maybe even toys.

She also stated, “Some families have to decide if they’d rather fix an appliance in the house or buy gifts for their children. We want to eliminate that choice that they have to make. We want to support and give out holiday cheer.”

Not only does Mrs. Marquis participate in this, almost every staff member does, too. Brooklyn’s mayor, Katie Gallagher, also participates. 

All students in preschool to seventh grade receive a flyer. If that family feels that they need help, they sign up. Mrs. Marquis also has a Brooklyn Cares Facebook page.

“Many families reach out personally by word of mouth.”

Brooklyn Cares is a way to show the community that the staff of the Brooklyn City Schools wants to get involved and help.

The Tree that Keeps on Giving

By: Haley Schaldach, Daylun Armstrong, and Anayah Flowers

December 12, 2019

Winter’s frigid temperatures pose difficult problems for many in the greater Cleveland area. Often times, children and families go without proper clothing in these chilling, winter months.

The Giving Tree is a way to give back to the community and many families in need this winter. The Brooklyn City School District has been participating in The Giving Tree tradition for 24 years and will continue to do so in the future. 

The Brooklyn School student council is in charge of organizing and collecting items to place on The Giving Tree (pictured above). Participation over the years has increased from students and staff, and this year’s goal is to fill up the entire nine-foot tree with winter accessories (hats, gloves, scarves, etc.).

Often, crossing guards and playground monitors see children walking home from school or on the playground without winter clothes. This is one of the main reasons why The Giving Tree exists.

The items collected will go to children in the district and the city (via Brooklyn Cares). 

“It shows a sense of community and that we care about each other. It makes you feel good helping others,” said Anita Bruzek (Office Assistant at the Brooklyn School). 

Your greatness is not what you have; it’s what you give. This is why The Giving Tree is an important tradition that the Brooklyn City School District will continue throughout the years. 

Debate Club Has Their Third Debate

By: Alaysia Curry, Jessica Strimpel, and Danielle Shehee

December 10, 2019

On Tuesday, December 10, the Debate Club had its third debate. The topic given was that all athletes should stand for the National Anthem. Earlier last week, the students were asked what side they wanted to be on, affirmative or negative. 

11th-grade student Andrew Badza, a member of the debate club, was asked about his opinion of the topic: “I think all athletes should stand because it’s a tradition that should not be changed.”

Members of the club can express their opinion and also listen to differing perspectives of the issues. This way, the members can have a more open mind on the issues debated. 

Before the debate began, students were given a few minutes to prepare their arguments. The affirmative side began the debate with Andrew Badza, who gave an introduction and discussed his researched case. 

The negative side then gave their questions and arguments. In the end, the negative side was the winner as they presented better information and evidence to win the case.

In each debate, the members improve their communication and listening skills. 

Another member of the debate club, senior Gino Pallotta, was asked what he hopes to debate in the future: “I want a little bit more hard-hitting topics… I like topics that people are passionate about debating.”

He also commented on what he enjoyed about debate club: “I like the structure of the debate club; it’s really easy to debate with others.” 

The members of the debate club will meet again on January 14, 2020 to structure their fourth debate of the school year.

Murals Class

By: Gino Pallotta, Delaney David, and Jaden Majewski

December 11, 2019

This year, Mr. Kasper, BHS art teacher, started a murals class. This class has students drawing and painting pieces of art for teachers around the school.

We wanted to ask him a few questions about the class, and here are his responses.

Q: What made you decide to start this class?

A: I had taken a college course online about environmental art, and I thought it would be a good idea to bring art to the district.

Q: Are you happy with how the class went this semester? Also, are you happy with the interaction from the class?

A: I am happy with how the class is set up. I think that students need to realize the importance of independence in a class like this. Sometimes, there is too much independence.

Q: What are some of the ideas that the teachers wanted in their rooms?

A: Murals that brought up their subject matter or personal interests.

Q: What are you going to change in this class going forward?

A: I would like to add a little bit of art history to it to show examples of famous murals and what they mean.

Q: Do you have any exciting plans for next semester?

A: I have to contact the faculty to see if anyone wants murals into their room and find a way to continue unfinished murals.

Q: Was there a specific type of mural you want to see more of?

A: I would like to see more large scale murals in public places.

Q: What students have stood out as exceptional?

A: Savannah David, Gisell Moreno, Kayla Schillinger, and Alexis Smeznik

Q: Do you want to have this class next year?

A: Definitely!


Better Luck Next Time

By: Lexi Jenkins, Ariana Rojak, and Serena Barile

December 10, 2019

The Brooklyn Hurricanes boys varsity basketball team faced off against the Richmond Heights Spartans last night.

The starting five were Tristan Peggs, Jamiar Tate, Tyler Elzholz, Jaiden Basinger, and Areon Cowling.

It is important to note that the Spartans were in the state final four last year, and they are predicted to go back this year, too.

Our boys went into the game with a current record of 0-2, while the Spartans entered at 1-2.

Elzholz faced the tip-off, but the Spartans got to the ball first and sprinted down the court; however, Jaiden Basinger intercepted the ball and scored Brooklyn’s first basket of the night.

The lead was shortly lived though as the first quarter ended 31-4 in favor of the Spartans.

Between quarters, Coach Karl’s young team appeared to need the motivation to push harder and to get their heads back into the game.

At the beginning of the second quarter, Stephen Chhan took a hard fall (and ended up being benched for a little while) after he collided with a player from the Spartans.

The tension thickened when Jaiden Basinger and a member of the Spartans collided and began shoving each other, needing to be separated by the referees.

The first half ended with a score of 65-10. The Brooklyn Hurricanes were evidently worried, but they continued to push forward despite their first half woes.

The third quarter was just as suspenseful for the players as it was for the audience and the coaches. Within only minutes, Maceo Pytel was hit in the mouth with the ball and was left with a bloody mouth for the remainder of the game. This went uncalled by the referees, much to the chagrin of the audience and coaches.

After three quarters, Richmond Heights led 101-20.

The fourth quarter began, and our boys were not very hopeful; many were down in spirits, but after another time out, they talked with their coaches, and the boys returned with their heads held high, and determination was evident in their faces.

The final score was 121-32 in favor of the Spartans. 

Freshman Jaiden Basinger said, “I was pretty confident [in my teammates]. I thought we could shock the world, but some people were playing scared which hurt us overall. I can’t be mad; they were just a really good team.”

Freshman Calvin Gore added, “[Our team can improve by) boxing out and playing more physical.”

Their next game will be on Friday, December 13, at Grand Valley High School. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m. 

Staff Profile: Mrs. Becker

By: Morgan Blechschmid

*Art Teacher*

  1. Why did you decide to become a teacher?

“I would like to say I was inspired by all the great art teachers I had, but actually, it was the opposite. Since I didn’t have good art teachers growing up, I wanted to be the art teacher I never had. They inspired me to be a better teacher.”

  1. How do you deal with a stressful day?

“I go home and laugh with my kids and watch mindless TV shows to decompress.”

  1. What is your most interesting, high school memory?

“I was the class speaker at my graduation.”

  1. If you could have another job, what would it be?

“I’ve always been interested in psychology, so maybe a psychologist or a counselor.”

  1. What is your funniest, teaching moment?

“There are so many! But one that comes to mind was while I was showing the class the “proper” way to dispense paint from one of the paint gallons, a clogged pump caused the paint to shoot up, and it got me right in the face!”

  1. What was your biggest setback in your life?

“During my high school years, my mom was battling cancer, and during my senior year, she passed away. It definitely changed my world and shaped the person I am today.”

  1. If you could change one thing about BHS, what would it be?

I would like to see students step up, be leaders, set high goals for themselves,  and be invested in our school.”

  1. Do you have any advice for the students?

“Set high goals for yourself, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, and take risks. Having a growth mindset is crucial to your success in life, so start practicing it now!

Noteworthy Start for Hurricanes Hockey 

By: Destiny Cannon, Jonathan Drake, and Valery Warner

December 5, 2019

The Brooklyn Hurricanes hockey team faced off with the Westlake Demons last Thursday at the John M. Coyne Recreation Center. 

The Canes were going into this season with a record of 12-7-2 (wins-losses-ties) from last year.

The first period began with Gavin Supek facing-off to begin the contest.

Early season jitters were evident but so was experience in a back-and-forth contest.

Seniors Aaron Wrost and Gavin Supek were instrumental in this game, both scoring a goal, while senior goalie Jason Edmonds only gave up one goal to the Demons in three periods of action. Wrost scored in the first period and Supek in the third.   

The score by the end of the night was 2-1 with Brooklyn winning their first home game of the 2019-2020 season. 

“Good start to the season. We outplayed Westlake and outshot them 42-24. We will need to improve our penalty kills and stay out of the penalty box. All players made a positive effort to turn this game into a win.” – Coach Mike Wrost

Their next home game will be vs. Twinsburg on December 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Lady Canes Take Down Grand Valley!

By: Lexi Jenkins, Ariana Rojak, and Serena Barile

December 7, 2019

(Both teams can be seen after the third quarter ended)

The Brooklyn’s girls varsity basketball team (3-2) faced off against Grand Valley this past Saturday. 

Alexandra Nieves, Kelsey Bruzek, Marshay Smith, and Shariah Gailes put forth great effort in this game.

The first-quarter started strong with our Lady Canes determined to keep their winning streak of two alive.

The first quarter ended with Brooklyn in the lead 13-8. 

(Freshman Shariah Gailes can be seen shooting a free throw.)

The second-quarter was back and forth, but the Lady Canes still led at halftime, 18-15.

After a defensive struggle in the first half, the third quarter was much more offensively-efficient. Our Lady Canes maintained their lead heading into the fourth quarter, 32-26.

After doing extremely well throughout the game, the Lady Canes didn’t stop and only grew more determined as the clock began running out.

The fourth quarter ended with a score of 52-45 leaving Brooklyn victorious.                                         

Freshman Delaney David said, “[Our team can improve by] staying focused every time we step on to the floor to practice and play. I think I played decent; I still have a lot to work on, but I just keep working harder and keep practicing. [I think everybody played] pretty good, but we still need to work on our offense though.”

David also added, “I’m pretty confident in my team every time we play, even though we have a very young team compared to others.”

Throughout the game, our Lady Canes had a total of eight fouls which is a good sign for future games. 

The next upcoming varsity girls game will be at 7:00 tonight (Monday, December 9) at Parma Normandy High School. Show up and show support for our girls!

Key Club

By: Anayah Flowers, Daylun Armstrong, and Haley Schaldach

Key Club is an international, student-led organization in many high schools, including Brooklyn High School. Students so far this year have participated in many different volunteer opportunities. 

“I think it’s nice; not only do we get to help others, but we also have fun while giving back to the community and gain more experience while doing so,” said Serena Barile (a junior member of BHS Key Club).  


Recently, BHS Key Club members hosted a canned food drive that raised over a thousand cans. These cans were given to our local community (Brooklyn Cares Project and the Brooklyn Acres). 

On Saturday, December 7, the annual Cookies & Cocoa with Santa took place, and students had the opportunity to help with arts and crafts while enjoying some treats. This event was held at the Old Brooklyn Decanus Center.

Key Club is always looking for new members to help spread philanthropic ideas throughout BHS and the community. If you are interested in joining the next meeting, it will be held after winter break in Ms. Barber’s room (194). We hope to see you there! 

Cuyahoga Heights defeats Brooklyn Boys Hoops

By: Delaney David, Gino Pallotta, and Jaden Majewski

December 6, 2019

After losing their opener, the Brooklyn varsity boys basketball team was looking for a win. They were determined to notch their first victory at home game against Cuyahoga Heights in an early CVC battle.

The starting players were Jamiar Tate, Tristan Peggs, Dean Day, Tyler Elzholz, and Jaiden Basinger.

The Hurricane defense was good, but they gave up the first points to Cuyahoga Heights and were down early.

After the initial bucket, Brooklyn started to go back and forth with the enemy team. When Jaiden Basinger made two three-pointers, the Redskins scored right back. At the end of the quarter, the score was 9-8 with the Hurricanes only down by one.

Cuyahoga Heights started the second quarter extremely well; an easy basket was made against Brooklyn. The Canes tried to get their rhythm back with Tristan Peggs picking up some baskets, but the Redskins kept the pressure on, and the half ended 25-16.

The third quarter saw Brooklyn trying to catch up, but the game stayed in favor of the visitors. The score difference kept getting bigger with the quarter ending 35-23.

In the fourth quarter, Brooklyn lost all of their steam, and the Redskins did not let up.  The game ended 49-35 with the Canes on the losing end.

When Coach Karl (head varsity coach) was asked if he was proud of how his team played, he responded: “I am proud, but I know that we can do better. We need to improve on defense, offense, and the shots that we take.” 

Their next game will be on December 10 at Brooklyn High School against Richmond Heights.

LADY CANES VARSITY BASKETBALL DEFEATS THE LADY SPARTANS

By: Izabella Hotz, Morgan Blechschmid, and Gabriella Fowler

December 4, 2019

{Lady Canes and Spartans during the national anthem}

On a cold Wednesday evening, the Brooklyn High School Lady Canes basketball team played the Richmond Heights Spartans and came out victorious 38-25. 

The Lady Canes opened the game strong with freshman Jenna Young scoring within 30 seconds of the opening tip. This faded quickly, however, with scoring going back and forth for the rest of the first period. 

The first quarter ended with a score of 7-4 in favor of Richmond Heights. Two points each were scored by freshman Jenna Young and senior Marshay Smith. 


The second period started stronger with Junior Kelsey Bruzek scoring within the first 10 seconds of the period. The rest of the period went similarly to the first, leapfrogging back and forth. 

The second period ended with a score of 21-14 in favor of Richmond Heights with a total of six points scored by junior Kelsey Bruzek, two points by Marshay Smith, and two by freshman Genesis Caraballo. 

The third period started with significantly more energy, both on and off the court, and this resulted in some amazing play. The entire period, the Lady Canes defended the Spartans against scoring any points. 

At the end of the third period, the Lady Canes had a lead of 30 – 21 with six points scored by senior Alexandra Nieves, two by Marshay Smith, four by Kelsey Bruzek, and four by freshman Shariah Gailes. 

The fourth period started and ended with an amazing amount of energy from the whole team. There were lots of foul shots by both teams, but the skill was still amazing. 

 
The game ended with a bang, and the girls played hard and got a well-deserved win by a score of 38-25. 

After the game, we spoke to head Coach Scott Urig.  

“Overall, the outcome of the game, I was very happy with the win, and for a young team, things were going wrong in the first half, and I didn’t know how it was going to go, but I was really proud of how they played in the 3rd quarter and 4th quarter especially,” said Coach Urig. 

“We had a very emotional, very physical, and very fast-paced game on Monday, and we came out a little sluggish.  As the game came on, we kind of got our legs underneath us and were able to continue to pick up the effort,” he said.


Assistant Coach Rachel Ranc explained how they played very well today.

“We [had] a rough start and came out really slow, but I think we had a lot of energy off the bench, and it picked us up.  We had a lot of people contribute [and it] was a team effort. In the second half, we picked it up, and we are going to keep getting better and better.”

“We are more of a team, everyone gets along, great chemistry, and our defense has gotten a lot better, way more aggressive, and offensively, we are playing good when we want to.”

Debate Club Prepares for Third Debate

By: Alaysia Curry, Danielle Shehee, and Jessica Strimpel

The Brooklyn High School debate club is preparing for their third debate on whether all athletes should stand for the National Anthem.

The debate club’s first two debates of the year revolved around banning the fast-food industry and America staying out of other nation’s wars.

This past Tuesday, the club members met to prepare for their upcoming debate. They focused on assigning roles and structuring their work to produce quality, researched arguments.

Members of the club follow the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Format. This structured format offers an equal representation of both negative and affirmative perspectives. 

Junior Andrew Badza, a second-year member of the debate club, was asked what is the most exciting part of the debate club: “I am excited about the competition and arguing (nicely).”

When Andrew was asked what he would like for people to learn from the debate club, he expressed that it is important to know how to structure a debate: “It can be helpful in writing and overall arguing.”

Eighth-grade student Abdullah Abu-Mathkour, who is a first-year member of the debate club, was asked about the impact that the debate club has had on him: “It helps me express how I feel about certain topics in a different format.”

The club has helped students understand how to structure arguments and has also helped with their critical thinking and writing skills. 

This third debate will take place on Tuesday, December 10. 

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