By: Jolenne Woodlee and Kadynce Aguliar

The Quill staff are delighted to report on our foreign exchange students, Dalighla and Barbare. Dalighla is from Germany, and she has some 11 Pleasanton High School so far. When discussing Pleasanton High School, Dalighla states, “It’s good, I like it”. When asked how she likes her host family, her response was, “ I like my host family”.  Dalighla also stated,“The first week was hard, but now it’s easy.” Overall, she seems to enjoy her stay here in Pleasanton, Texas.

Barbare, on the other hand, is from Georgia. When asking her opinion about culture, her answer was “Like every teenager, it was my dream to get to America, leaving the Washington airport and seeing America through my eyes was very shocking and impressive at the same time. The cultural difference is that Americans know time management which is not a big problem in Georgia.” We asked Barbare to elaborate about the difference of the culture today, she had a lot of good things to say about it. When talking about some of the most challenging things she has faced she stated “One of the difficult barriers is the English language, because American English in America is different from all other English spoken by people in the world.” 

We are excited to host these delightful students on our campus. Make sure to give them a welcoming smile if you meet these two! 

Pop Culture: New York Fashion Week 

by: Layla Rodriguez 

This month we are focusing on the one and only New York Fashion week! There were so many different looks and new styles being introduced that many love, here are some of the favorites! 

Ralph Lauren 

Firstly we have Ralph Lauren. She brought a whole new meaning to style. Her main outfit featured a whole Jean look with some pops of color shown in the accessories. She was going for a chick hippie cowgirl kind of look and she definitely nailed it! This was one of our more simple but favorite looks this week.

Alessandra Ambrosio 

Next we have Alessandra Ambrosio and she looked absolutely stunning! She featured a red jumpsuit with a butterfly cut neckline and white undertones fading into a flowy bottom. No accessories needed, this piece was a real show stopper!!  

Grace Ling 

Lastly we have Grace Ling, with this one of a kind line that had many jaws on the floor. This dress features a vine of thorns wrapped around her body with a few birds coming off of the vine. The all silver look is really eye-catching as well as its unique design! This line emphasizes being delicate, yet dangerous and brings so many new possibilities to the table. 

Overall this New York fashion week was a huge success! Our journalism crew loved seeing the unique outfits and the creative people behind them. If you liked this month’s Pop Culture segment, come back next month for the next hot topic! 

by: Liam Powell

In the fast-paced world of science and technology, recent discoveries have sparked excitement across various fields. From breakthroughs in medical research to advancements in renewable energy, these findings are poised to shape our future.

1. Advancements in mRNA Technology

Following the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers are exploring new applications for this technology. Recent studies suggest that mRNA could be used to combat various diseases, including cancer and genetic disorders. For instance, a clinical trial showed promising results for an mRNA vaccine designed to target melanoma, offering hope for personalized cancer treatments.

2. Breakthroughs in Quantum Computing

Quantum computing continues to make headlines with recent advancements that enhance computational power and efficiency. Companies like Google and IBM have reported progress in qubit stability, a key factor in making quantum computers viable for practical applications. These developments could revolutionize industries such as cryptography, materials science, and artificial intelligence, enabling calculations that are currently unimaginable with classical computers.

3. Renewable Energy Innovations

As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions, new discoveries in renewable technologies are emerging. Researchers at MIT have developed a novel method for harnessing solar energy using perovskite materials, which could significantly reduce costs and increase efficiency. Additionally, breakthroughs in energy storage, particularly with solid-state batteries, promise to enhance electric vehicle performance and grid stability, making renewable energy more accessible.

4. Understanding the Human Microbiome

The human microbiome—the collection of microbes living in and on our bodies—continues to be a hot topic in medical research. Recent studies have unveiled links between gut health and various conditions, including mental health issues and autoimmune diseases. This growing understanding could lead to new treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of microbiome diversity for overall health.

5. Climate Change and Ecosystem Resilience

As climate change poses increasing threats to biodiversity, researchers are discovering ways to bolster ecosystem resilience. A recent study highlighted the potential of assisted migration, where species are relocated to more suitable habitats to counteract climate impacts. Additionally, advancements in ecological restoration techniques are helping to rehabilitate damaged environments, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem services.

These discoveries illustrate the dynamic nature of scientific inquiry and its potential to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As researchers continue to explore uncharted territories, the implications of their findings will resonate across disciplines, ultimately shaping a more informed and innovative future. Keeping an eye on these advancements will be crucial for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of science and technology.

By: Leighlah Silva 

October brings transformation with Libra and Scorpio guiding the way, encouraging reflection, balance, and preparation for new beginnings. Aries will need to focus on relationships, resolving conflicts with patience and grace. Taurus may feel uncomfortable with change, but embracing it alongside self-care will lead to personal growth. For Gemini, this month is a blend of social activity and much-needed rest, reminding them to seek balance.

Cancer’s attention will shift to home and family, with emotional insights arising—especially through vivid dreams. Leo has a chance to shine by sharing ideas but should remain open to constructive feedback as changes loom. Virgo will need to reassess finances and values, as small adjustments now will lead to long-term rewards.

Libra, celebrating their season, is encouraged to focus on self-growth and let go of what no longer serves them. Scorpio, meanwhile, will feel the pull of personal transformation, trusting their intuition to guide them through it. Sagittarius is urged to slow down, reflect, and gather insights that will shape future decisions.

For Capricorn, collaboration and networking will open unexpected doors, leading to new career opportunities. Aquarius will need to explore both ideas and emotions, with self-reflection offering meaningful breakthroughs. Pisces, diving deep into their inner world, will find that trusting the flow of life brings them closer to new beginnings.

This October is all about balancing light and dark, action and stillness. Whether you’re confronting challenges or celebrating growth, trust the transformations unfolding

by: Alex Richter

It was Halloween night when Tao, ever the skeptic, found himself standing outside the old amusement park at the edge of town. The place had been abandoned for years, but that never stopped the students from daring each other to sneak inside every October. Tao had always dismissed the idea as ridiculous—a haunted amusement park? Please. It was probably rats scurrying around in the dark and wind howling through the broken windows.

Tao didn’t know what happened next. Now, standing outside the rusted gates of the park, his confidence wavered. The wind whistled through the twisted metal bars, sending shivers down his spine. The moon hung low in the sky, casting shadows across the decaying rides. 

Just a quick look.

He pushes through the gate and steps cautiously onto the cracked pavement. The carnival grounds stretch out like a nightmare frozen in time. The old amusement park looms ahead, a dark silhouette against the moonlit sky. 

Tao pulled his hoodie tighter around himself, trying to fight off the chill in the air, but it was more than the cold that made him shiver. Something felt off. Tao had been here before, years ago, during the day. He remembered laughing with his friends, winning a stuffed animal at the ring toss, and riding the ferris wheel. 

Get a grip, Tao. It’s just an empty park.

But it wasn’t. He could feel it. He knew it. There was something here–something watching him. He hesitated for a moment, considering whether he should turn back, but he wasn’t going to let his friends make fun of him for chickening out. 

As he walked deeper into the park, he saw a flicker of light out of the corner of his eye. He spun around, but there was nothing there. Just shadows dancing under the dim light of the moon. 

He approached the carousel, its horses frozen mid-gallop, their paint peeling and eyes staring vacantly in the distance. Once upon a time, the lights were twinkling and the music was playing. Now, it was just…sad. 

A sudden noise startled him–a soft, almost rhythmic creaking, it was coming from the ferris wheel. Tao’s head snapped up, and he saw the giant wheel slowly turning, even though there was no power to make it move.

Then Tao saw it–a carriage swaying slightly as if someone was inside it. Tao squinted. He felt his breath catch in his throat when he saw a faint, pale face peering at him from the carriage window.

No way.

Tao stepped back. It couldn’t be real. But then the face smiled–a slow, eerie grin that sent a wave of terror crashing over him. His mind screamed at him to run, but his feet wouldn’t move. The ferris wheel continued to turn slowly, the carriage rocking back and forth gently as it made its way down to the ground. 

The carriage finally came to a stop, and the door creaked open. For a moment, nothing happened. And then, slowly, the figure’s hand reached out and gripped the side of the door. Tao could barely breathe as he watched, waiting for whoever–or whatever–was inside to step out.

A voice whispered something, something he didn’t understand. It was soft but enough to make his blood run cold. The figure stepped out of the carriage, and as it moved into the moonlight, Tao’s eyes widened in horror; It was a human–only, it wasn’t. The face was human, but there was something wrong, something twisted about the way it moved like a puppet being jerked around by invisible strings.

“Tao,” the voice said, Tao could hear the strange echo beneath the words, like two voices were speaking at once.

Tao took a step forward, confused. 

“This isn’t real,” he whispered, but he didn’t know if he was trying to convince himself or if he believed that.

Suddenly, he heard faint, distant shouts–voices calling his name. He turned, and for a moment, he thought he saw his friends in the distance, but before he could move, he felt a cold hand wrap around his wrist, tighter than he thought possible.

“No!” Tao shouted, trying to pull away, but the grip only tightened, yanking him.

The figure’s eyes glowed in the dark, its smile widening as it dragged Tao closer to the ferris wheel. The last thing he saw was the gate swinging shut, the metal bars clanging as if sealing his fate. The voices called his name, but it got drowned out by the wind, and then everything went black.

Tao was never seen again. By the next morning, the park was still, silent as ever, and the gate remained closed as if it hadn’t been disturbed in years. The ferris wheel stood motionless, the carriages empty, waiting for their next visitor.

The Poll: Spooky or Feel Good Fall Movies

by: Layla Rodriguez

For this month’s Poll, we have decided on the topic spooky, or feel-good movies during the Halloween season… and we have our results! It turns out that the students of PHS favor the spooky movies over the sentimental ones for the fall season. Thank you to everyone who participates in our monthly polls, come back next month for more!

Spooky but Sweet: Boomallow Brownies

by: Layla Rodriguez

For this month’s Sweet Treat we have chosen Boomallow Brownies! This treat is amazing to share at a spooky party or with friends and family. It consists of a gooey yummy brownie with a cute little ghost marshmallow on top. 

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cup of sugar
• ¾ cup flour
• ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Marshmallows 
• White chocolate chips 
• Milk chocolate chips

How to bake:

Firstly start by preheating the oven to 325 degrees, then line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper and set that aside. Second you’re going to need a medium mixing bowl, and in the bowl combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, salt, and chocolate chips. After this you will need a large mixing bowl and in this bowl you will combine the eggs, oil, water, and vanilla extract. Once everything is mixed in its separate bowls you then are going to slowly add the wet ingredients into the dry, and mix gradually until smooth. After the batter is done, lightly butter your pan over the parchment paper and pour in the mix. Once the mix is in the pan put it in the oven for 40 minutes. Once this is brownies are done baking you’re going to take them out of the oven and let them cool while you prepare the ghosts! To prepare the ghosts you start by melting your desired amount of white chocolate for 30 second increments until fully melted. Then melt the milk chocolate the same way. After it is all melted add the white chocolate to the top of the brownie put the marshmallow on top, add a little face with the milk chocolate, then you’re done! Let them dry then enjoy with family and friends!

“Hey Siri, play Happiest Year by James Young” 

It felt like a dream, We were the best team. Two hearts bound so tight, But ripped at the seam.

I got so attached, like my heart latched. But dreams and in the blink of an eye, and now we have to say goodbye.

It seemed so real, but what a steal. But like a wish granted fast, ours just couldn’t last.

One moment we soared, our full hearts were poured. But the sky has to end, and I fear it will never mend.

We crafted a world, your perfect heart whirled. But like anything bright, it vanished from sight.

You were gone so soon, like the sky’s moon. But like the morning dew, it was gone before it ever grew.

-Soulful Scribbler

by: Alex Richter

Sanda Dia, a 20-year-old engineering student full of promise, believed he was to be initiated into a brotherhood when he joined the Reuzegom fraternity in Belgium. Instead, he stepped into a nightmare, one that would end in his tragic and senseless death. What should have been a moment of inclusion and bonding devolved into a ritual of cruelty, leaving questions about toxic traditions and racism within elite institutions.

The initiation process Sanda endured was not just brutal– it was deadly. Reuzegom prided itself on its extreme hazing rituals, but Sanda, one of the few non-white students, was subjected to punishment that went beyond what others experienced. His race and background set him apart, making him an easy target for more vicious and humiliating tasks. What followed wasn’t a series of unfortunate accidents; it was systematic abuse that ultimately claimed his life.

During the extremely long and painful ordeal– lasting multiple days– Sanda was made to consume large amounts of alcohol and fish oil, a substance not intended for drinking, as it would cause vomiting and distress. Then, as his condition worsened, they escalated the torment. Sanda was ordered to sit for hours in a small pit dug in the ground that was filled with ice-cold water. The prolonged exposure to the freezing temperatures caused hypothermia, further weakening his body. This pit was inescapable. 

The abuse didn’t stop there. At one point, the fraternity members poured salt into the freezing water, causing his body to dehydrate rapidly, worsening his state. At this point, Sanda’s kidneys began to fail– a direct result of the hazardous substances he was forced to ingest and the severe strain on his system. Despite his obvious distress, the fraternity members did not show any concern. They laughed, took videos, and treated the young man’s suffering as part of the entertainment.

By the time the fraternity members finally took Sanda to a hospital, it was too late. Sanda was in a state of acute hypothermia, severe dehydration, and organ failure. He slipped into a coma and died the next day. His death certificate listed the cause of death as “multiple organ failure induced by physical trauma and severe stress.” The events that transpired, and the indifference shown by the other members, painted a grim picture of the reality behind closed doors of Reuzegom.

What happened next was as shocking as the incident itself. Rather than facing justice, the fraternity members involved were shielded by their privilege and social status. During the investigation, it came to light that members of Reuzegom tried to erase evidence of the abuse. Messages were deleted and video footage was destroyed. Some of the members fled the scene, knowing that they were leaving Sanda to die. There were attempts to downplay the incident, describing it as a tragic accident instead of an intentional act of cruelty. The fraternity’s influence was palpable, and it became clear that justice would not come easily for Sanda’s family.

In the trial, 18 members of the Reuzegom fraternity were charged, but the charges were strikingly lenient considering the severity of the crime. The prosecution argued for community

service and minor fines. The fraternity members were not even expelled from the university; many continued their education as though nothing had happened. 

One of the most controversial aspects of the case was the apparent disregard for the racial motivations behind the abuse. Sanda’s family and advocates knew that his treatment went beyond hazing– it was an act of racist brutality. Yet, the courts chose to focus on the hazing, avoiding the deeper issues of racism that the case had brought to light.

A former Reuzegom member, speaking anonymously, revealed the fraternity’s internal culture: “It was all part of the ritual. Everyone went through it… but Sanda had to do more. We didn’t realize it would end like this.” His father, devastated and angry, voiced his anguish: “They treated my son like an animal. And when he was dying, they left him to suffer alone.” During the trial, the prosecutor emphasized that this was more than an unfortunate hazing incident. “This was not a simple initiation. It was a systematic assault, a stripping away of his humanity that led to a slow and painful death,” she declared.

Sanda’s death has sparked a larger conversation about the dangerous traditions still present in fraternities and other elite circles. The Reuzegom fraternity, composed of students from wealthy and influential families, fostered a culture where cruelty was masked as bonding exercises. The case has led to a broader examination of how these toxic environments persist and the responsibility institutions have to protect their students.

The aftermath of Sanda’s death left Belgium in shock. His story resonated beyond the country’s borders, drawing attention to the systemic issues of racism and hazing within academic settings. It was a sobering reminder of the price some students pay for seeking to belong in a world that can turn a blind eye to abuse.

The family of Sanda Dia continues to mourn the loss of their beloved son, a young man with a bright future who was senselessly cut short. As they seek justice, they also hope that no other family will have to endure such pain. The toxic fraternity culture that cost Sanda his life is now under intense scrutiny, with calls for reform growing louder. His memory serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lie beneath the surface of these institutions, and of the importance of safeguarding the dignity and humanity of all students.

by: Omar Aguas

When thinking about how to enjoy Halloween as a teenager, it’s important to consider what activities align with your interests and values. 

Whether you prefer attending costume parties, watching scary movies with friends, or going trick-or-treating in your neighborhood, the key is to choose activities that bring you joy and make you comfortable. You can create many memorable experiences on Halloween that you can enjoy recalling back.

One way to make this night memorable is to host a movie night. Gather your spook-enthusiast friends and family to watch the freaky flicks. 

by: Jolenne Woodlee

Depression is a big deal when it comes to people because it can make you lose yourself. Coming from someone with depression it is hard to cope sometimes. Dealing with depression is serious. You never know what that person is going through so you don’t know what would trigger their emotions so you sometimes have to be cautious around them. With medication and therapy, you can overcome your depression if you try your best.

A little bit of a background on depression, depression is a mental condition that can rule your whole life if you let it. So take action and you control your life, not the depression. “ the deeper the darkness the lighter the light” -Anonymous. 

Depression is a serious thing to talk about coming from me if you have the symptoms reach out to get diagnosed so you can get the help you need. If you ever need anyone, go find a trusted person, and if you can’t get ahold of them, you should reach out.

By: Leighlah Silva 

This month’s Eagle of the Month is a standout student whose hard work and passion shine both on and off the field. Samuel Bermea , a dedicated member of the band who holds a leadership position as a section leader and also steps into the spotlight as a soloist. From guiding his section to nailing performances, he has proven that his talent and dedication set them apart.

But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced this year is balancing school and band,” he adds. “Both are super time-consuming, and it’s hard trying to keep up with homework while also making time for band activities.” The secret to handling it all? Time management. “I learned to break down my schedule so I know exactly when I’ll focus on school and when I’ll give my all to band.”

Behind his drive is a personal mission: making their parents proud. “My parents have given me the mindset to do my absolute best in everything I do,” Samuel shared. “They’ve really shaped who I am and why I keep pushing forward.”

When asked what advice they’d give to others looking to succeed, they didn’t hold back. “Stop caring about what people think, do what makes you happy. The biggest enemy you’ll face in life is your own mind. It limits what you think you can do and stops you from what you could do. YOLO.”

With all that wisdom, it’s no surprise that they’ve got big goals. Right now, they’re working toward making the symphonic band at the region level. And once again, it’s their parents who push them to keep going. “They are my biggest fans and always support me through everything. In the end, I do it all to make them proud.”

Whether it’s leading in band, hitting the right notes in solos, or balancing the demands of school, Samuel Bermea shows us all what it means to give your best. They remind us that success isn’t about being perfect it’s about passion, grit, and having the right people in your corner.

Congratulations to our Eagle of the Month!

Staff Spotlight

by: Mrs.Minniear

Reflecting on the inner mechanicians of this campus, it is agreed that PHS would not have the same shine without our tenacious maintenance staff. The gleam that our classrooms and halls embody is reflected in the outstanding work ethic of this month’s staff spotlight, Ms.Yvonne. 

As a PHS staff member for three years, Yvonne brings her positive attitude and 26 years of experience to this campus. In fact, she spent her earlier days working at Southwest General Hospital in housekeeping. Yvonne enjoys her time here, and states that her favorite part of this career is “working with PHS friends, staff, and of course, students.” 

When asked about what she enjoys doing in her free time, she says she values “hanging out with family and watching TV.” To conclude her career in maintenance, she plans to retire from Pleasanton ISD. All in all, the journalism staff are grateful to have a kind-hearted staff member in our halls. Make sure to say hello when you see her! 

by: Omar Aguas and Amanda Minniear

This month, the Quill staff selected our new addition to the 400 hallway as our Teacher Spotlight. Mrs.Mitchell, our college prep teacher, graduated from Pleasanton High School and joined our team of teachers this year. 

Mrs.Mitchell has been teaching for 19 years. When asked about her teaching philosophy, she said, “Everyone deserves a second chance and a good appreciation of uniqueness to honor them in class”. Her positive demeanor and energetic personality do not go unnoticed by her students. In fact, her students and other peers would describe her as “ full of energy”. Mrs.Mitchell strives to create a culture that creates a “sense of being a family”.

Overall, PHS is excited to welcome a new teacher with experience and drive to help our students find success. 

Sports Recap

by: Alex Richter and Layla Rodriguez

The tennis season concluded with thrilling matches, standout performances, and fierce competition, highlighted by Colton Sexton and Jace Warner who made it extremely far during this season! The eagle tennis team had a 1-10 loss after making it very far in matches and tournaments during this season. Way to go Eagle Tennis! 

Bowling tryouts kicked off at PHS this October, marking the start of a promising new season as new students showcase their skills and determination for the team. With a mix of returning players and fresh faces, the season is looking exciting for bowling’s second year.

Now for Volleyball… This volleyball season has been very successful and working very hard this season. Our Lady Eagles have been working at trying to achieve the best that they can, and these past few weeks they have taken the win against Carizzo, and Uvalde, but taken a loss to Floresville, Pearsall, and  Devine. A big round of applause to the Lady Eagles volleyball team for fighting so hard this season, it’s sad to say it has come to an end. Sadly the Eagles did not qualify for playoffs this year, but put up a good fight. Thank you to all for coming out and supporting our Lady Eagles!

by: Xavier Mendoza and Ella Garza

The Eagle band has been on the move this month. Placing at various marching band contests, the band has performed their marching show “Dream” at the UIL Marching Contest. The Eagle band received ratings of “1” from three judges which advanced them to the area contest. The UIL Area E Contest at Calallen High School on November 2nd will determine their eligibility for moving on to the state contest.

We interviewed a band member to ask questions about how they got into band and the hardships they face doing the extracurricular activity. Luis Ramos has been in band since 6th grade, now a junior. When asked why he was interested in the band, he responded with “Music and getting to play instruments. But then it got more fun with things we’d get to do like concerts and games.” When questioned about the hardships faced in band, he responded with commitment and the heat being the hardest thing about it. We also asked about his view on recent competitions, and he responded encouragingly stating that “they were doing well”. 

The Quill staff are eager to see where the Eagle band lands in area! 

JROTC

by: Emily Breier

The Eagle Battalion’s competition season is underway, with strong leadership and incredible united individuals there is a thriving season ahead. Having practice Monday through Thursday there has been a tremendous improvement in every single person. The JROTC is a very homey environment and all together safe place.

We interviewed 2nd second Lieutenant Darian Delgado and he had many positive things to say about the program. He says “My favorite thing about the JROTC would be the people in the program. You really become a true family and team.” This is something that is key for a healthy environment. Often students don’t have a place like this. The JROTC program offers this to many people, this environment is what leads to such good scores.

The First drill meet competition has happened with all teams placing in the top ten, as well as the Raider team thriving in their competitions this season. They have all earned their scores by hard work and dedication. Each and every team deserves the placing that they desperately hoped for. We wish the JROTC eagle battalion the best of luck for the rest of the season! 

by: Elisabeth Dills and Jolenne Woodlee 

In this issue, we will be highlighting the achievements of the girls in cross country, Shalyn Gutierrez and Payton Garza.

Running cross country requires a great deal of motivation. Athletes in this sport often draw inspiration from various sources, such as setting personal goals, finding joy in running, and seeking support from teammates and coaches. Additionally, visualizing success, maintaining a positive mindset, and celebrating progress can all contribute to staying motivated throughout the season.

Now we will dive into an interview from Shalyn, Shalyn states “ cross country runners are like family to me”. I asked her why cross country, and her answer was “My friend thought it would be fun, I stuck with it since seventh grade”  Shalyn’s biggest inspiration she says is her friend Cassidy Vicker. Why? well because she would always push Shalyn to do her best when it came to running.

 Moving on to our interview with Payton Garza, runner for the Pleasanton cross country team, expresses that her biggest inspiration is her teammates. She says this is because something that gets her through her races is desserts and the benefits of the races if she wins.

by: Aiden Alcorta

As Playoffs are right around the corner the Pleasanton Eagles are fighting for a spot to start a playoff run. The Eagles are midway through their season with a record of 3-4 with a playoff spot the line. As the Eagles came off an astonishing district victory over the Rockets with a score of 63-12 they turned their focus to a 3-5 team, the Fredericksburg Billies. The Eagles battled the Billies on Friday, October 18th at Billie Stadium. Going into the game the Eagles and Billies were neck and neck through the first and second quarter with the score being 14-17 before halftime. After halftime, the Billies came out strong taking a huge lead and the Eagles tried to cut down the deficit but the Billies were just adding on to the score. The Billies resulted in getting the win with a score of 38-21. For both teams, this game is almost like a playoff game. With the Eagles now being 1-2 in district they are now in 4th place being tied with the Somerset Bulldogs with both teams having the same district record of 1-2. On Friday, October 25th at Eagle Stadium the Pleasanton Eagles will take on the Somerset Bulldogs at 7 pm. Whichever team gets the victory has a good chance of making the playoffs and getting the spot, however, for the losing team, it’s going to be difficult to get a shot at the playoffs. So Eagles Fans pack out the stands on Friday at 7 pm and help the Eagles get the victory over the Bulldogs!!

 #BeatTheBulldogs!!

By: Aiden Alcorta

As the Eagles kicked off the season at Eagle Stadium against the Highland Owls, the Eagles came out on top with a victory with the score resulting in 37-12 shutting out the Owls. As the  Eagles rolled  into their second matchup, the Eagles were looking forward to taking on San Antonio Jefferson which was a hard fought battle. Still, it resulted in the Eagles coming out on top with a score of 21-14 . Going into the third game of the year, the Eagles were going into their rivalry game against the Jourdanton Indians.  It was a hard fought battle throughout the whole game with both teams being neck to neck all night and resulted with Jourdanton taking the win  40-34 handing Pleasanton their first loss of the year. As Pleasanton was  going on into their final non-district game against the Gonzales Apaches, the Apaches had the game rolling going into the second half leading 28-7 . The Eagles were hoping to start the second half off strong and try coming back from the Apache lead but unfortunately  fell short resulting in a 34-14 Apache victory. The Eagles have now wrapped up the non-district games and are now heading into district this week against the Davenport Wolves on Thursday, September 26th at 7pm in Davenport. 

Good luck, Eagles!

By: Emily Breier 

It’s official: the 2024 volleyball season has started, and our Pleasanton highschool volleyball team are working hard to get back in the swing of things.  Additionally, the girls are striving to work on their skills and teamwork. We interviewed Sarah Clark, a varsity volleyball player. She said “I feel like I’ve been getting to know my team pretty well, it helps out with playing.” This really goes to show when they step onto the court. Considering this information these ladies have been performing very well! When playing Lampasa the Lady Eagles competed very well and managed to win both sets! 

Volleyball has many more games and tournaments. The future is bright for the Lady Eagles volleyball team. Each team member has their very own way of contributing to the team that leads them to how they play together.  A key part of how the team is their head coach, Couch Bunch. She is a fundamental part of the team leading them to work on their skills after every win or lose. With all this to say, we hope they have an amazing season reaching every goal they strive for. I hope you can come support our Lady Eagles at the next game. Pride Pride!

By: Alex R.

The Pleasanton Tennis team competed against Karnes City on Thursday, August 28th. Coach Everett expressed his pride in the team’s performance, saying he tried his best to motivate his players, which paid off in the final score. Jace, a key player on the varsity team, shared his thoughts that he works hard and focuses, and he looks forward to playing tennis due to the sport’s uniqueness. When asked what his favorite part of tennis was, Jace said: “The thing that I like the most about tennis is that it’s an individual sport, you don’t have to rely on anyone besides yourself,” 

The Eagles’ victory is a testament to their commitment and dedication, setting a positive tone for the rest of their season. With Coach Everett’s guidance and the team’s dedication, the Pleasanton Eagles are set for a successful season.

By: Leighlah Silva and Liam Powell 

“Champions are built in the summer.” That’s the mindset our cross-country team adopted this offseason. Over the summer, we focused on building up our running base by increasing our mileage. This helped set us up for success once the school year started, allowing us to shift our focus to speed endurance and tempo runs. All the hard work has paid off, with many of our athletes already setting personal and season-best times.

Of course, the post-race trips to Cane’s and Chick-fil-A are always a fun bonus, but more importantly, each athlete has personal and team goals to work toward. Knowing what they’re aiming for helps keep them focused and committed, even during the toughest workouts.

A successful cross-country runner needs strong endurance, speed, and physical strength to take on any race and perform at their best. But it’s not just about the physical side. Mentally, they need to have resilience, focus, and the ability to push through discomfort while staying determined and team-oriented. This season, our athletes have demonstrated all of these traits, and it’s showing in their results.

We’ve had some standout performances so far. Our varsity girls finished 2nd in Karnes City, 3rd at Lockhart, and 3rd at Seguin. The varsity boys placed 3rd at Lockhart, and our JV girls took 1st at Karnes City. Plus, we’ve had athletes medal by placing in the top 20 at every meet this season. Overall, it’s been a fantastic season so far, and we’re looking forward to more great moments ahead.

The team is showing steady progress in both performance and teamwork. We’ve seen improvements in endurance and speed, and everyone is staying motivated through tough workouts. Looking ahead, we want to keep this momentum going, peak at the right time for the big meets, and continue to strengthen our team bond. Our ultimate goal is for everyone to reach their personal bests, stay healthy, and hopefully win the district title and advance to regionals and state. 

It’s been a great journey so far, and we’re excited to see how the rest of the season unfolds.

By: Liam Powell

Ms. Rodriguez of the theater department was chosen for the teacher spotlight. Ms. Rodriguez has been the teacher for our theater department for the past few years. She started early on in life doing choir in high school, never thinking of trying theater arts. After graduating not many places were needing choir people, her mother told her about a show happening in town that needed choir people. When she went in to try out, she left with not only a part in the choir, but a role in the play. 1987, That’s what started her intense love for the arts. When she started doing theater professionally in the 90’s, it was decided by the government that the arts weren’t important enough to be taught. After a long period where teachers were let go, the government realized how important the arts really were, bringing the classes back to schools. However, with a shortage of teachers willing to continue theater, Ms. Rodriguez knew she had to do something. She took her role as a teacher of the arts with great excitement. Many friends of hers who had taught the arts told her they weren’t willing to go back to the arts for fear of being let go again. However, she wasn’t worried, she knew how important the arts were and how important it would be to keep teaching them.

When asked what plays she’d love to do again or would like to do in general, it took her a while to really think about the question. But her answer was full of confidence. She would love to do the musical, SIX by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. Her dream role for the musical would be the role of “Anne Boleyn”, though the role “Catherine of Aragon” is another role she adores. However, a play she’d love to play and fit as of now would be “On Golden Pond”, a play about an older couple at their lake home. She would love to play the aging wife of the aging man.

Her favorite part of her job is working with young teens and children, helping them bloom into people who adore the arts just as much as her. She loves to help people who didn’t think they could do it, leading them into confident young actors. The hands-on experience is what gives her satisfaction in her job as a teacher of the arts. 

Her favorite play she’s done has to be “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes. A short story turned into a book then a play. A play she still does to this day is “Las Nuevas Tamaleras” by Alicia Mena, performed in San Antonio. She plays the role of a sweet, humorous, sassy and motherly. “Josey” is the character she’s played every year for this play. This play can be watched still in San Antonio on November 2nd at 7PM, at 226 N. Hackberry St., San Antonio, TX. 

Ms. Rodriguez is one of the kindest people at this school, during One Act Play she always has breakfast ready for the team, and anyone who can’t buy lunch you know she has you taken care of. Theater is her love as well as who shares her love for the art.