By: Adriana Clark  

On May 10-11, Senior Lacey Stevens traveled to Kyle and competed in the UIL State Golf Tournament. The first day, Lacey scored 87 points. On the second day she scored 82 points. After only counting the first 9 holes on day two due to the weather, Lacey ended up with a two-day total of 131 points. Lacey finished 36th overall at State. 

May 17-18th the men’s golf team traveled to Kyle where they overall placed 8th. Coach Guerra said that even though they did not have a season last year, “This has been a historic year for our golf program. Despite having our season cut short last year and all the adjustments that had to be made this year, the team put all of that behind them and made this season the most successful season this program has ever had. This shows how dedicated and committed these young men and women were to this season.” 

Coach Guerra added that “having the boys team make it to the state tournament for the first time in school history and Lacey qualifying as a medalist in the same season, makes this year the proudest of my coaching career.” 

For next year’s golf season, Coach Guerra is “hoping that the experience of the participating in the state tournament will help the returning golfers to want to work even harder during the off-season and next year so that they can experience that feeling all over again. I also hope that it will inspire the others to work just as hard so that they can be a part of that experience down the road” 

To the graduating seniors in golf, Coach Guerra would like to say thank you for your hard years of work and dedication you put into the program and that he will miss every one of you. He wishes you all the luck in the world in everything that you do.

By: Jaelyn Morales

The Varsity Boys and Girls track teams competed in the 4A Area Track Meet on Thursday, April 15th in Wimberly, TX. The Lady Eagles placed 11th with 9 points in total. Even with weather changes throughout the day, both teams worked hard and pushed through.  In the field events, Ciarah Garcia placed 6th in triple jump and Victoria Castillo placed 6th in the high jump. On the track, Kassidy Vickers placed 6th in the 3200 M run and the 1600 M run, while Jilllian Barcomb placed 6th in the 300 M hurdles. The 4 x 100 M relay team of Emree Adamitz, Kiley Wiechring, Brandi Barnett, and Marissa Rothenbach placed 7th and the 4 x 200 M relay team of  Diamond Brownlee, Kiley Wiechring, Victoria Castillo, and Angel Tucker placed 8th. Caitlyn Neischwitz was the only athlete who advanced to the Regional lV Meet for the Lady Eagles. 

The Varsity Boys placed 3rd with 91 points in total. Before the weather became cold and drizzly, the field events took place and competing was sophomore Sean Ramos who finished 8th in long jump, junior Juan Lopez who finished 4th in long jump and 8th in triple jump, junior Este’van Jackson who finished 3rd in triple jump and 5th in long jump, and freshman Preston Pilgrim who finished 3rd in pole vault. For the running events, the 4 x 100 M relay team of junior Rudy Franco Jr, Sean Ramos, Juan Lopez, and Este’van Jackson finished 5th but only by .03 seconds and sadly missed their chance at qualifying for regionals. Sophomore Averee Cantu, junior Reagan Moore, and freshman Jayden Palacios ran the 800M and finished 6th, 7th, and 2nd. Junior Justin Veale ran the 110M hurdles and finished 5th and also ran the 300M hurdles and finished 7th. Senior Ashon Thompson flying past his competitors placed 1st in the 100M dash and 200M dash and Jayden Palacios also placed 1st, but in the 400M dash. The 4 x 200M relay team of Este’van Jackson, Sean Ramos, Juan Lopez, and Ashon Thompson finished 2nd after a tough race and the 4 x 400 M relay team was the last race of the night and consisted of Sean Ramos, Juan Lopez, Este’van Jackson, anchored by Jayden Palacios who placed 3rd with a time of 3:28.24 seconds and barely missed breaking another school record. Six athletes advanced to the Regional IV Meet for the Eagles.

The Texas 4A Regional IV track meet took place at Javelina Stadium in Kingsville on April 23rd and 24th. Senior Caitlyn Nieschwitz finished 10th with a time of 2:39.21 in the 800M run. Caitlyn has accomplished so much in her 4 years of track & field for the Lady Eagles and the whole community is proud of her. The Varsity Boys placed 2nd at the regional meet and had a total of 62 points. Este’van Jackson placed 9th in triple jump and Juan Lopez placed 7th in long jump, both narrowly missed getting into the finals.  Preston Pilgrim was the first athlete to earn a spot at the state meet with a 2nd place finish in pole vault. Jayden Palacios ran the 400M dash finishing 1st with a new school record and ran the 800M run with a 3rd place finish.  Ashon Thompson placed 1st in the 100M dash and remained undefeated and also ran the 200M dash and finished 2nd. The 4 x 200M relay was unfortunately disqualified on a rules infraction and did not earn any points. The 4 x 400M relay team placed 1st and broke the prior school record time (3:27) set 46 years ago. They broke the record with a time of 3:23.507 and then broke their own record on Friday with a time of 3:28.482. “The best moment was watching our 4×4 team break the school record in prelims at regionals and then the next day break it again and beat Wimberly who was talking trash to our guys,” said Rudy Franco Jr. The Eagles didn’t let the trash-talking phase them and instead they settled it on the track. Their hard work paid off and the team met their biggest goal which was making it to the state championship. 

The UIL State Track and Field Meet was held at Mike A. Myers Stadium on the UT campus in Austin, Texas. First up for the Eagles was Preston Pilgrim who scored the first points for the team and set a new personal record when he cleared 14’-6”. Next up was senior Ashon Thompson who ran against tough competition and placed 4th in the 100M dash with a time of 10.56 and also competed in the 200M dash and placed 4th scoring points for the eagles in both events. Jayden Palacios was now up to run the 400M dash and gave it all he got to place 3rd breaking his own school record time of 21.84 seconds and winning the bronze medal. The final race for the eagles was the 4 x 400M relay team of Sean Ramos, Juan Lopez, Estevan Jackson, and Jayden Palacios. They were competing against some of the best relay teams in Texas, but that didn’t phase them at all. Ramos started the race with a great first leg and handed it off to Lopez who kept the eagles in the mix. Estevan Jackson had an amazing leg as well and to finish it was Palacios who took off for the finish line and finished in 4th place breaking the school record with a time of 3:21.51 and scoring points as well for the team. The Varsity Boys represented the school and community proudly and placed 5th with 24 points at the meet. “The way I felt about this track season is a feeling that can not be described, it was like a movie,” stated Rudy Franco Jr. For Ashon Thompson this is his last year competing for Pleasanton, but he has made his team, school, and community proud and has shown the underclassmen how it’s done. The future is very bright for the eagles and the team and coaching staff and very excited and looking forward to next year. Congratulations to the Pleasanton Track and Field teams for all their hard work and dedication. Pride Pride!

By: Courtney Henson

On April 29, the Pleasanton Lady Eagles softball team faced Uvalde and secured a win ending the game with a score of 8-5. The next day, April 30, the team faced Uvalde again and after a long fight, suffered an extreme loss with an end score of 27-2. The day after, on May 1, the Eagles faced Uvalde one final time and after a long game, faced the devastating blow of a 19-4 loss, ending their 2020-2021 season. 

The differences between this year’s season and last year’s season, could not be more obvious. The season was cut short due to Covid-19 last season, so they came ready to play this season. For senior Tatum Stanley, this season posed a mentality improvement. With the new season, the players faced change and were put into new positions. “A lot of us had to play new positions and take that well,” says Stanley. This could have caused blips in the team’s plays, but instead they rose to the situation and as Stanley said “kept our heads up” as well as being, “ready for the next one.” For Sophomore Anai Gonzales, this was the first year on Varsity and first full year of high school softball. This year she feels they faced a lot of the same difficulties that Stanley thought. A “rough one” she called it, but “ I love my teammates and I’m grateful to have gotten the chance to play with them” 

For head coach, Coach Savage, this would come to be the last season she would coach. For the past 11 years, Savage has been working towards turning the program around, and it has paid off. The softball program has made it to the playoffs every season for the past 11 years, something that had not been done in many years. Coach Savage credits the amazing seasons to the “dedicated and hard working young women of this community that believed in themselves and our program.” Although Coach Savage will no longer coach at the high school level, she will continue coaching at the junior high level. Coaching junior high kids has always been a passion of Coach Savages, firmly believing that, “it’s where the basic fundamentals are instilled in kids and their future success sprouts at that level.” Coach Savage will be missed dearly by the softball team.

As the softball season comes to a close, and the year ends, the softball team looks forward to next season. Remember these words from your dear Coach Savage, “never forget to find your BELIEVE! All things are possible if you Believe!” Awesome job this season and we wish you luck in the future. Pride! Pride! Eagle Pride!

By: Gabby Palacios

After an amazing season with countless victories, the PHS Varsity baseball season has come to an end, finishing off their 2021 year as Area Finalists. 

Following a 6-4 loss against Hondo on Tuesday, April 27, the Eagles made a comeback for their final District game, finishing the night off with a 6-5 win over the Owls. The boys began their Playoff games against the Carrizo Springs Wildcats on Saturday, March 8, the first round ending with an 11-1 win for the Eagles, and the second round ending with an astounding 16-1 win for PHS. 

Unfortunately, the season ended after the second round against the Alice Coyotes. The Eagles lost both rounds, ending with a 2-0 score on Friday, May 14, and a score of 6-0 on Saturday, May 15. This ended the boys’ year off with a total of 25 wins and 9 losses for the season.

After the amazing season with the 2020-2021 team, Coach Standley stated, “They were picked at the bottom of the district but they proved a lot of people wrong and we got the district championship, one of our goals, and had a great year…”

Because of Covid-19, last year’s season was cut short and the team was unable to finish off the year. However, Coach Standley feels that this year’s team finished off the work of last year’s team and set the grounds for an amazing season next year. He explained, “My final words to [the seniors] would be ‘thank you so much for making an enjoyable season for me and it was a pleasure and an honor to coach [you all]’.”

Congratulations on the amazing season and good luck to the 2021 senior baseball players going into their future. PRIDE PRIDE!

By: River Reyes

From freshman year to senior year students compete relentlessly for the top rankings of their class, be it for the pursuit of their dreams or a strong competitive nature. The Valedictorian is the one who stands above all else, successfully maintaining the highest standard of grade and seeking out the greatest challenge with every given opportunity. The Pleasanton High School Class of 2020-2021 Valedictorian is Matthew Garcia, a well distinguished student who has worked tirelessly to stay at the top of his class for his future endeavors.

Matt will be attending Texas Tech University enrolled in the honors program looking to major in finances. When asked about his class ranking and how it affected his opportunities, he said, “It made the admissions process much less stressful and gave me more of an advantage over others…I was awarded many scholarships based off of test scores and rank…” The payoff for all of  Matt’s hard work is clear and staying on top of the workload taken was an integral part to maintaining such a high rank. Matt says that to maintain his school/life balance, he would spend “…time before and after school catching up on or getting better clarification on any task 3I may have had trouble on.” Taking advantage of the help that teachers provide is extremely important for those looking to excel in their academic pursuits as you are allowed that 1:1 experience which guarantees the clarification necessary to be successful. 

The teacher with the strongest impact on Matt’s high school career is Mrs. Bast. Mrs. Bast is the current College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus teacher. Mrs. Bast takes great pride in having taught Matt and watching him develop as a student who prioritizes challenging himself. “Matt is one of those well rounded people who will succeed at whatever they set their mind to in life and in addition to being a gifted brilliant student he’s a nice guy as well he’s a really good guy and a great role model for other students. I’m proud to call him my student.” It truly goes to show that Matt has left a strong impression on his teachers and sets a strong example for his peers.

At home Matt is just as diligent with his responsibilities as he is at school. When asked how she feels about his Valedictorian status, Matt’s mother says, “Matthew is very deserving of his Valedictorian status, because we have seen first hand how much diligent devotion, time, and bottomless energy that he has applied to his studies. We are happy for him, and have high expectations for him in the future.” As his parent, Matt’s mother is very engaged with his endeavors, both failures and successes, encouraging him to meet his highest potential. As a graduating senior, Matt will be entering the open world head first and his mother has full intention of supporting Matt now so that he can pioneer his own future with his independent efforts. 

The Valedictorian is the one who stands above all else, successfully maintaining the highest standard of grade and seeking out the greatest challenge with every given opportunity. Matt has been successful in many of his pursuits and worked tirelessly, diligently, and honorably, deserving all the recognition he has received. We congratulate Matt and hope he will continue to be his best both now and in the future.

By: Heaven Marquez

Pleasanton High School’s 2021 Salutatorian is none other than amazing student Blake Moos. As someone involved in many different organizations, Blake has succeeded in academics, while also doing well in athletics and maintaining a balance of work and play.

“I just enjoy holding those leadership positions…,” said Blake. “Even though it [the organizations] added to my workload, it didn’t bother my drive to keep my grades up.”

Blake plans to attend Texas Tech University in the fall and wants to major in Computer Science, to then receive his Master’s degree in Software Development. After school, he would like to work with a large video game company in the entertainment industry or cyber security. 

With his experience in leading many different organizations, such as Class President, National Honor Society Vice President, Homecoming King, Mr. PHS, and now Salutatorian, Blake aims to put it all to good use in his career field. 

“Even though I enjoy being a leader, I [also] really enjoy working together as a group. And so in the job of cyber security, I’d love to be the “head honcho” of the group, but I really just enjoy working with other people and being able to produce a result from that,” Blake stated.

Even with all of his participation and accomplishments, Blake does not consider any of them to be his greatest achievements while at Pleasanton High School.

“Even though I have accomplished a lot, I think my greatest success is just meeting all the people that I have, and I love all my friends so much. It’s going to be really sad that I’m not going to be with them forever, but I’m just so glad that I’ve been able to meet so many great people,” explained Blake.

Blake has done exceptionally well in his four years of high school, making his family very proud.

“He [Blake] works hard. He makes me proud and I hope that he continues that when he moves on and just always remembers that being kind is more important than anything else,” said Blake’s mother, Mrs. Beth Moos.

Blake’s journey has been successful so far, and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for him. Congratulations Blake, and your PHS family wishes you only the best!

By: Courtney Henson

April Findley is one of the most kind, generous, and humble faces at PHS. Over the past 4 years April has worked incredibly hard in all of her classes. This work has paid off and April will graduate as the highest ranking girl of the class of 2021! April will be attending Texas A&M where she is studying Mathematics to, someday in the future, become an actuary. April is the student council president, an active member of NHS, a member of the Trio Upward Bound program, and a member of the 2021 class officer cabinet. 

Along with working very hard and balancing your time well, another thing that can help you stay ahead and create motivation are the people all around supporting you. The teachers at PHS can play a huge role in influencing the students. For April, three teachers had the biggest influence on not only her success in high school, but on the person she is today. April credits her motivation to actually do well in school to Mr. Roberson. Freshman year, April categorized herself as a pessimistic person but through the year she grew.  She says Mr. Roberson “opened my eyes to the world of optimism.” and that “he gave me a lot of encouragement and motivation.” Although Mr. Roberson is one of the main reasons April is going to study mathematics, Mrs. Bast also played one of the biggest roles in April’s decision. April says that Mrs. Bast “really pushes you to do your best and she like believes in you 100%,” She also credits most of her motivation and success to the lengths Mrs. Bast would go for her students. Lastly, having one of the most influential positions in April’s life is Mrs. Moos. April says “Mrs. Moos is always there for me just helping me” She has given April countless opportunities and good memories. “She is one of the best workers at PHS. She believes in her students, she’s just so sweet, she’s just overall the most caring person I know, I love Mrs. Moos, she is the best.” These three teachers’ life lessons, amazing memories and motivation will be ones April remembers for the rest of her life and lives her life following.

Although high school is only four short years of one’s life, they are memorable and important to growth. Being involved in many things resulted in April having a very memorable high school experience. April at one time was an avid runner and it paid off. As a freshman, April advanced to regionals in both Track and Cross Country which soon became one of the best memories April has of high school. “It was a crazy moment for me,” she states, “I was like “what the heck” it was crazy for me.” Alongside being involved in Track and Cross Country, April was an active and successful member of the schools debate team. Advancing all the way to state as just a freshman. Even though she was really successful in these events, April feels her greatest high school success was being the highest ranking girl, and student council president. “It was awesome.” Both of these require a lot of work and dedication and April did amazing. 

For all 4 years of high school April has been a member of the TRIO Upward Bound program. She credits this program for the preparation and knowledge she has of college and the application process. “That was probably the most I have ever been prepared for something.” She states. The TRIO program helped her with college visits, essays, scholarships, preparing them for picking degrees and majors and much more. She says they “They told me everything I needed to know.” Alongside this, the school counselors have also helped a significant amount in April’s high school to college transition. She went to Mrs. Evans with many questions and Mrs. Evans always proved to help. April says, “the counselors are really helpful, they really help a lot.” April has had somewhat of a smooth transition and she says all you “just have to ask.”

Both after and during college April intends to participate in internships. She would also like to get a masters degree to narrow down her degree from general mathematics to eventually become an actuary. An actuary is someone who does statistical analysis, “basically they just like do risk analysis for bigger companies.” This is a career April has a lot of interest in and has always thought about. “I think it’s something really interesting,” she says, “I don’t think I would get bored.” She finds the risk factory of the job the most interesting and exciting part of being an actuary. 

Through high school, everyone faces many difficulties that might hold them back or discourage them. April’s most important piece of advice is to not worry yourself crazy over GPA. She says “always try your best and try to get the higher grade but don’t kill yourself for it.” She feels it cuts down on your social life, your friends’ community and family time. She stressed that in high school you should always, “take harder classes to challenge yourself and prepare yourself, but don’t let it kill you, don’t let it push you so hard that you have nothing left.” Always enjoy your time no matter what. You only have so much time. April leaves the classes to follow with the strong statement of, “It’s ok to not be able to do it all.

Congratulations April on everything you have accomplished at Pleasanton High School. We on campus could not be more proud of the things you have done. We wish you the best of luck and know you will do great things. Pride! Pride! 

By: Victoria Chavez

Mrs. Callie Bast, who is known as one of PHS best mathematics teachers , was selected as the 2020-2021 Teacher of the Year. With her bright attitude and her passion for teaching it is no surprise that she was given this award. “My favorite part about teaching is when  you see a student, who probably hated math, not hate math anymore and they realize they can do the work…” 

When asked how she felt receiving this award Mrs. Bast commented, “ I was thrilled and honored… made me feel appreciated for what I do and for all the extra hours that I spend after school working with kids” It is no question that her dedication to her students shines through the dark times of the school year. Even with the obstacles that the pandemic has given us, she continues to educate students and help them reach their goals. “It’s the worst when you see a student sitting between friends and they’re not able to do the work but by the end they can…”  

Her reasoning to return to teach at PHS was because, “I graduated in 1982… it feels like coming home from a long trip… it’s like if you cut me, I bleed green” 

Mrs. Bast’s love for teaching has grown over the years and with this growth came advice for the new teachers of the world, “You chose this profession because you love teaching. It’s not the money or the fame, you do it because you feel called to do it. Even when you have those rough days or years, weather the storms and remember why you came in the first place. You’re going to be glad you followed the passion instead of the dollar bill… might drive an old Chevy like I do but that’s okay” 

Congratulations Mrs. Bast and thank you for all of your hard work!

By: Kristina Mertz

Ms. Schulz may not be a familiar face around PHS, but she sure will be soon, because she has been chosen as the 2020-2021 New Teacher of the Year. She provides assistance for students who need additional support in their core classes.

Ms. Schulz says, “I am thrilled to be new teacher of the year, it’s rewarding to know that my co-workers see that I’m working really hard for my students and [it’s] really exciting because I feel like I have accomplished a lot.”

She attended college at St. Phillips, where she obtained her associates degree and later transferred to Texas A&M San Antonio where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies.

“I was born in San Antonio and then I lived in Adkins, which is near LaVernia, and I have two kids, they’re both boys, six and two and a half.” She later added, “I think PHS found me. I also used to work in Jourdanton in the oil field (dispatching while I was in college), so [I] was used to the drive. It’s like it was meant to be.”

 Her favorite part about teaching children is, “Building relationships, I enjoy spending time with my students, because they make me happy.” Ms. Schulz said,  “I am looking forward to seeing my students grow as individuals and being able to see familiar faces.”

Her favorite part about PHS is “The family type atmosphere.” Congratulations Ms. Schulz on getting New Teacher of the Year!

By: Kristina Mertz

If you’ve ever had a fever, stomachache, or were in desperate need of some allergy medicine, Mrs. Annette Salinas, also known as the school nurse, has definitely made your day better. She is known throughout the school as a kind caregiver, who will never hesitate to help a student.

When interviewed by senior, Dillon Meyers, she said, ““To begin with, I’m a school Nurse Aide. My training has been through ESC-Region 20. Training such as emergency first aid, CPR, seizure, diabetes, etc. Through the years, PISD District Nurses have delegated and trained me for other skills as well. — As I like to say, ‘I’m the mom that does first aid at school!’ — I started as the back up to the Nurse Aide when we had the Intermediate Campus (I was a library aide at the time) many years ago, when she left I stepped into the position for a few years and then transferred to PHS about 9 years ago.” 

As PHS’s school nurse she has many duties and responsibilities. “I also keep track of student immunizations, vision and hearing screenings, administer medications at school too.” When asked if she always wanted to be a nurse aid, she responded with, “Administering first aid has always come natural to me. I grew up on a dairy farm and learned at an early age to care for animal wounds. I’m not squeamish to wounds and blood and can stay calm in stressful situations. When I was married and had kids – two boys, one girl – I had plenty of first aid practice on them!” — “Also when I was [a] kid, my sister, brother and I helped care for our grandparents when they became bedridden at home.”

She later added, “I’ve been at PISD 20 years as a paraprofessional of some sort, over half that time in the Nurse’s Office. If I didn’t love my job, I wouldn’t be here.” Her favorite part about the job is, “Knowing I helped a student’s day go a little bit better!” And her least favorite part is, “Not being [able] to be in two places at once.”

“When someone takes care of others it’s rewarding, no matter if it’s a little bit or a lot” she stated. Mrs. Salinas is a prominent educator, who will always be valued highly in the halls of PHS for years to come. Thank you Mrs. Salinas!

By: Gabby Palacios and Heaven Marquez

As the end of the school year comes around the corner, PHS staff, faculty, and 2021 seniors prepare for this year’s graduation ceremony. Due to the circumstances of this year and the recent changes to the mask requirements, PHS has made adjustments to the guidance for graduates and their families.

The gates will open at 6:00 pm for guests attending the ceremony, and all will enter at the main entrance gate. Guests are highly encouraged to bring a water bottle. Balloons and other distracting items, including but not limited to air horns, silly string, beach balls, etc., are not allowed. Flower deliveries for graduates will be accepted from 6:00-7:00 pm at the visitor’s gate closest to the field house. PHS administration asks that all guests be seated immediately upon entering the stadium to secure their seats. Those attending will not be allowed to stand along the railing in the stands to take photos or to watch graduates enter since this blocks the view of other guests. In the event of inclement weather, each graduate will be allowed a maximum of 6 guests, and the ceremony will be moved into the New Sports Complex Gym.

The 2021 graduates are expected to be in dress code and in their assigned rooms before 7:00 pm on the day of the ceremony, Friday, June 14. Doors will open at 6:15 pm and each graduate will have a specific entrance depending on their assigned rooms. Graduates must not bring any personal items into the school building before the ceremony as they will not return afterward. Masks are optional in the school building and on the field. For students who choose to wear a mask, one will be provided. You are not allowed to wear your own.

Although the ceremony will be open to all, with no limit on guests per graduate, PISD encourages any individuals in high-risk groups for Covid-19 to not attend the ceremony. The ceremony will be live streamed and links to watch will be posted on the PISD and PHS websites and Facebook pages.

This year flew by in the blink of an eye, and graduation will be here before we know it. Congratulations to all 2021 PHS seniors. Good luck to all as you enter the next chapter of your life. PRIDE PRIDE!

By: Kristina Mertz

As of June 1st, Pleasanton ISD lifted the mask mandate across the campuses. Students who elect to wear a mask must also follow COVID protocols, as well as students who do not opt to wear a mask. All students must follow the dress code accordingly, which includes no facial hair and no facial piercings. Students who choose to wear the mask must wear all masks correctly, covering their nose, mouth, chin, and neck. PHS is currently still practicing contact tracing procedures such as, electronic hall passes, sanitizing desks and chairs, enforcing assigned seating, and keeping students in quarantine for those who have come in close contact with the virus. It is extremely important to remember to respect students’ choices whether or not they choose to wear a mask. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact Mrs.Guajardo or another administrator.

By: Libby Sanchez

As the school year comes to an end, so do the clubs and organizations within our district. After Covid-19 took their chance of an End of Year Award Ceremony and Change of Command Ceremony last year, Pleasanton JROTC was excited to be able to participate in this event on May 20th . The Change of Command Ceremony is significant because it’s a change of authority of Cadet Senior Leadership. Announced at this event was next year’s new Battalion Commander, Simon Karsky (Junior), and Battalion Command Sergeant Major, Hayli Woodson (Sophomore). On May 22nd, JROTC participated in the Alpha Warrior Challenge at Retama Park in San Antonio. After practicing and training for this event the previous weekend, our Eagles were ready to dominate the hour and 45 minute course. They were split up into an 8 person male team and an 8 person female team. The Eagles won 4th place out of the 12 teams in the male category, and the Pink Eagles won 2nd place. Pleasanton High School JROTC was very honored to participate in the Pleasanton City Wide Memorial Day Ceremony to pay their respects to our fallen heroes this past weekend. They participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Veteran Memorial early Sunday morning. Over the summer, 10 cadets were chosen to participate in the JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge. The 5 male cadets chosen are: Lorenzo Samaniego, Aries Uhl, Logan Alexander,  Valdamore Herrera, and Kenneth Alegria. The 5 female cadets chosen are: Natalia Jones, Alaina Nethken, Courtney Cearley, Annie Araiza, and Hayli Woodson. It’s a 4 day overnight event that focuses on team building and cadet leadership. Colonel Wynder has done a great job with this year’s JROTC program and is beyond proud of the graduating seniors. “I want them to take the lessons they’ve learned during this experience and apply them for the rest of their lives, motivate young people, set up for success, live by the cadet creed, and always be successful.” Good luck to those graduating, and we’re looking forward to what JROTC has in store for next year! 

By: Adelena Vera

 

Pleasanton High Schools annual Junior and Senior prom was held on Saturday, May 1st, 2021 at The Espee. There were about 350 people who attended this year’s Great Gastby themed prom. The prom royalty are as listed below, followed by the class favorites: 

King and Queen are Mariano Gutierrez & Genevieve Rodriguez

Prince & Princess: Trent Crady & Valentina Gasca

Dutch & Duchess: Roman Cuevas & Korin Ramos

Most Artistic: Cesario Aguero & Mya Cashiola

Most Transformed: Thomas Lopez & Alizae Navejar

Best Hair: Ashon Thompson & Jewels Kinsel

Class Clown: Andrew Orta & Viviana Huron

Biggest Flirt: Joshua Schmahl & Kiyara Peralez

Most Likely to Succeed: Blake Moos & April Findley

Prettiest Eyes: Ashon Thompson & Zariah Garcia

Cutest Couple: Marissa Hernandez & Romulus Romero

Most Spirited: Andrew Orta & Heaven Marquez

Most Musical: Daniel Martinez & Neviz Martinez

Best Physique: Brenden Esquivel & Caitlyn Neischwitz

Best Smile: Mariano Gutierrez & Heaven Marquez

Sweetest & Kindest: Blake Moos & Caitlyn Neischwitz

Most Likely to be in the Principal’s Office: Andrew Orta & Natalie Contreras

Most Handsome & Most Beautiful: Thomas Lopez & Valentina Gasca Tellez

Bromance: Auston Gillespie & Ty Hehman

BFFs: Renata Osorio & Sofia Rivera

Most Athletic: Ashon Thompson & Caitlin Nieschwitz

Most Talkative: TommyLee Ramirez & Brianna Ortiz

Best Laugh: Andrew Orta & Neviz Martinez

Best Personality: Romulus Romero & Neviz Martinez

Life of the Party: Andrew Orta & Kim Arguijo

Most Likely to be President: Blake Moos & April Findley

Cutest Couple That Never Was: Valentina Gasca Tellez & Mariano Gutierrez

Mr. & Miss PHS: Blake Moos & Heaven Marquez

Caitlin Hernadez states, “I had fun at prom and I will attend next year, of course.” Her favorite thing about prom was getting the chance to dress up and wear a beautiful dress. Before prom, she took pictures and ate with three other guests. At the venue, she got to dance with her boyfriend and spend some time with her friends, and of course the after party.

By: Eileen Jaksik

Pride Month is a month dedicated to those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community. The month of June is completely dedicated to those who celebrate pride. There are many celebrations to show appreciation to pride, such as rallies, marches, commemorations, community days, dance parties, and festivals.Pride month is celebrated in the United states to remember the Stonewall riots. The Stonewall riots occurred at the end of June 1969. Many pride related parades and marches were created as a result of the Stonewall riots. June was declared Pride Month in 1999-2000 and has been celebrated every year since then. Since pride month became a national celebration more and more things became legalized and available to the LGBTQ+ community. Same sex marriage became legal in 2015 and same sex adoption became legal in 2016 in the United States.

As a result people started to become more comfortable with coming out with their sexuality. Large amounts of bullying are still seen, and there are still a lot of people being treated differently. An anonymous contributor said “I’ve definitely been treated differently in high school. There’s been times I’ve felt very uncomfortable by other students and teachers.”, but as time goes on, the amount of bullying for same sex relationships is decreasing.
If you would like to support the LGBTQ+ community there are many opportunities to do so, including events even here in San Antonio, Texas. Show support and show the community that it is okay to not be ashamed of your sexuality.

By: Wanish Tortes McGinnis

As one transitions from high school to “life after high school,” here are some recommendations that one can tweak to their own version of “Life 101”. Many high school students are used to being the “big fish in the little pond.” After graduation, and as they enter college or trade school, they find themselves the “little fish in the big ocean.” It’s important to make new acquaintances.  Don’t be afraid to get to know others; they may have the connections you need for the future. 

First, it’s probably best not to take a break after high school before attending college or a trade school. If you have been given advice from family and friends, take it with an open mind, say thank you, and consider all avenues for your success. Internships and volunteer service in the field in which you are interested can help to guide you in your decisions. When you enroll in classes, get your general education requirements done first. Go to EVERY class in your schedule, even on Fridays. Give it your best effort; strive to get an “A” in the course. If you are shy or don’t really know people in your class, ask to join a study group that meets your style of study; the best groups are the ones that meet at the library in a quiet study room. 

When you get your schedule, make sure you have enough funds to purchase your books. Most books will be anywhere from 100 dollars and up, depending on your course of study. You will also need notebooks, blue books for tests, binders, and notebook paper. Add to that list a calendar and organizer. If you are lucky, you will have received a laptop or computer somewhere in high school, or as late as graduation. 

Developing a good financial history with your bank and the people you do business with will give you financial freedom. Stay away from any junk mail that offers you credit cards. Get a debit card at the bank where you deposit any money from paychecks or gifts of money. Have a savings account, as well as a checking account. Use cash when you can, and keep to your budget that you will set up. If you have a part-time job, your paycheck needs to be divided up in the following ways: 10% of the total goes to savings. 15% of the total goes to your church or a charity of your choice. The rest will need to be budgeted for groceries for two weeks,  the laundromat (unless mom will let you use her washer/dryer!), which will cost about $20 per week, and extras (movie, occasional meal out). Don’t eat out too much; put money aside to treat yourself or yourself and a friend during the month. Buy what you need, not what you want. If you want a bigger TV, then put money aside to save up for the TV. Do not buy anything on “time”, unless it’s an appliance you need, and then pay it off early.

It’s okay to be unsure or nervous about the next steps- just keep moving forward. You may change your mind a hundred times before you land where you are meant to be, but when you get there your heart will tell you. If your choice of major is not what you had planned it to be, see if there is a similar type of job in the same area, or change your major. Many students will start out in their field of choice, and within a couple of years, change to a similar or different major. 

If you’re looking for an easy transition from school into the workforce, you likely already have a few job and career ideas in mind. However, not all careers are the same in terms of earning potential, entry-level position availability, and so on. If you’ve taken CTE (career technical education) courses or have significant work experience, you’re likely headed down a particular track already. If you have some hobbies or passions that you can make money from doing after high school, look into those options. There are several possibilities when it comes to transitioning from high school to a career, and here we look at some of the best options for students who wish to go this route. 

Some 30 percent of this year’s three million graduating seniors will not go straight to college or a trade school,  a number that is increasing as the economy becomes inflated. More graduates are finding that going to work out of high school may be financially more secure such as working retail, auto shops, restaurants, family businesses, or construction, so they can put money away since some of these graduates are on the less profitable side of the vast economic and cultural divide that is demarcated by a college degree. 

By: Courtney Henson

During the 1920s, women were known for taking back their own love lives. When she was just 17, Dolly Korschel met Fred Oesterreich and they quickly got married. But for young Dolly, this did not get in her way of having a wildly active love life. The couple lived in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Fred worked very successfully at a local factory. This very factory is where Dolly and Otto Sanhuber first laid eyes on each other. When she saw that Sanhuber was fixing sewing machines at the factory, Dolly demanded that her husband send him to their house to fix her sewing machine. Dolly was 33 while Sanhuber was 17. When Sanhuber showed up, Dolly was wearing nothing but a silk robe and stockings. This was the beginning of an intense affair and the ultimate death of Fred Oesterreich.

After months of the affair between Dolly and Sanhuber, neighbors began to get suspicious of the unknown man showing up pretty often. The best solution Dolly could think of was to move Sanhuber into the couple’s attic. Sanhuber agreed and quit his job at the factory to devote all of his time to Dolly. This arrangement meant that Sanhuber couldn’t leave the house because it might result in him being seen. Sanhuber spent the days with Dolly and helping around the house, and the nights reading and writing fiction stories by candlelight. 

For 5 years the affair continued like this, until 1918 when Fred decided to move to Los Angeles. Although this could have caused complications, Dolly worked around it.  She found a house with an attic and sent Sanhuber to settle in before the Oesterreichs got there. For 4 more years, life continued for the group with the same routine as in Wisconsin..

On August 22, 1922, Sanhuber overheard Fred and Dolly fighting and emerged from the attic. He burst into the room where the Oesterreichs were fighting, and noticed that Fred was holding two pistols. Fred recognized Sanhuber from the factory and became very angry and the two began to physically fight. Fred was shot, Dolly and Sanhuber panicked. Sanhuber locked Dolly into the closet and retreated into the attic with the key and the guns, Dolly would have an alibi and Sanhuber would be invisible. Dolly told police it was a robbery gone wrong. 

After the ordeal died down, Dolly found and moved into a new house. One would assume that she and Otto could eventually bring their relationship into the open, allowing Otto to have a normal life. But instead, when Dolly moved, Sanhuber, once again, took up residence in her attic. While Sanhuber wrote more stories, Dolly got herself yet another lover. Local lawyer Herman S. Shapiro became Dolly’s fixations, but Shapiro worked long hours and this would not satisfy Dolly. Enter Roy Klumb, another lover to keep Dolly entertained, but Klumb might have been used simply to rid Dolly of the guns. Klumb ditched one gun in a tar pit, while a neighbor of Dollys buried the other. 

When Dolly broke up with Klumb, he recovered the guns and went to the police with the story. Neither gun could be tied to her because of corrosion. While Dolly was in jail, Shapiro discovered Sanhuber, but this was not a deal breaker for Shapiro. After many years of living in the attic Sanhuber was told to get lost, and Shapiro moved into the house. All charges against Dolly were dropped. Sanhuber finally escaped after living in Dolly’s attic for over 10 years.

Seven years later, Dolly and Shapiro broke up and Shapiro went to police with everything he knew. Warrants were put out for Dolly and Sanhuber. The jury found Sanhuber guilty of manslaughter. Nevertheless, the statute of limitations on the manslaughter had run out, and Sanhuber was released. Dolly died in 1961 at age 80, hopefully having learned a thing or two about relationships.

By: Ricky Fabrow

Aries: Taking care of people is hard work which is why this month you should try to take care of yourself instead of working yourself to the breaking point. Relax and be carefree just focus on yourself.

Taurus: You have a certain charm to you and that charm will shine this month. There will be many chances your charm will work on others and will allow you to get out of trouble.

Gemini: For the rest of June you should relax and be calm in order to let your creative and peaceful thoughts flow through your mind. You should let those creative thoughts roll wild and do what best artistic things you do best.

Cancer: You should trust your instincts and yourself as a whole because you will be making very important choices for yourself. Many people will question and test, but it is you who must stay true to yourself.

Leo: This month may make you feel more cool and relaxed. There won’t be much stress or sadness when it comes to what will happen these past many days.

Virgo: Job careers and opportunities will come soon and will allow you to follow what you want to do with your dreams.  

Libra: Your days will be peaceful and there will be no fighting or bad days. You will finally be able to relax and not stress over situations. 

Scorpio: This month, whatever project you’re working on will be finished or improved on greatly by the end or middle of the month.

Sagittarius: Teamwork will be the best choice for whatever you’ll be doing this month. From projects to jobs, being part of a team or getting help will help you succeed.

Capricorn: You will be called to use your imagination and creativity for work and your own enjoyment. There will be multiple opportunities that shall show up.

Aquarius: It’s time to forgive the people and forget the bad things that have happened, this month is all about making sure you have no enemies nor disliked people in your life so you can enjoy life without worrying about the bad people making it worse.

Pisces: You will get interested more in the history of how you became the person you are today and look back upon your greatest and worst moments to see if you’ve become a better person than you were years ago

What Are You Going to Do After High School?

By: Dillon Myers

There are many options as to what to do and be after high school. Leaving high school is the start of a new chapter, full of new beginnings and new friends. New beginnings usually involve new activities and/or jobs, such as working at Whataburger, joining the Air Force, or going to Baylor University. Of course, you can always just be a bum on the streets or in your parents’ basement, though we don’t recommend it. (Anyway) Here in journalism, we got curious as to what you were planning on doing after you leave PHS… The results are shown below.

My dear readers, dear Journalism class, and dear… anyone else who happens to be reading this, God bless you and have a great rest of your life.

By: Ariana Johnson

Ingredients:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 3 eggs 
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 (16 ounce) package prepared chocolate frosting
• 18 lollipop sticks
• 1 (14 ounce) bag chocolate candy melts
• 1 (.75 ounce) tube decorating icing 

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Beat cake mix, eggs, and oil in a bowl using an electric mixer on low speed for 30 seconds. Increase the speed to medium and beat for an additional  2 minutes. Pour batter into the prepared baking dish.
3. Bake in a preheated oven, 28 to 33 minutes. Cool completely, at least 1 hour.
4. Crumble cake into a large bowl. Stir frosting into cake crumbles until mixture is sticky but not too smooth. Chill in the refrigerator, at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll cake mixture into 1 ½-inch balls and arrange on a baking sheet. Place 1 lollipop stick into each ball
6. Melt about ¼ cup chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20 seconds in the microwave. Dip each cake pop in the melted chocolate. Repeat melting chocolate and dipping remaining cake pops. Decorate pops with decorating icing.

By: Dillon Myers

A red house is made from red bricks. A blue house is made from blue bricks. A yellow house is made from yellow bricks. What is a green house made from?

#27 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

Why is the letter F like death?

#28 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

A man describes his daughters, saying, “They are all blonde, but two; all brunette but two; and all redheaded but two.” How many daughters does he have?

#29 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

If you have a 7-minute hourglass and an 11-minute hourglass, how can you boil an egg in exactly 15 minutes?

#30 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

How far can a squirrel run into the woods?

#31 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

During which month do people sleep the least?

#37 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

Put a coin into an empty bottle and insert a cork into the neck. How can you remove the coin without removing the cork or breaking the bottle? 

#44 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

I have a large money box, 10 inches wide, and 5 inches tall.  Roughly how many coins can I place until my money box is no longer empty?

#46 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

What do an island and the letter “t” have in common?

#47 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

What is unusual about the following words: revive, banana, grammar, voodoo, assess, potato, dresser, uneven?

#48 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

How can a man who shaves several times a day still sport a long beard?

#49 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

An elevator is on the ground floor. There are five people in the elevator including me. When the lift reaches the first floor, one person gets out and two people get in. The lift goes up to the second floor, three people get out, five people get in. It then goes up to the next floor up, no-one gets out but 12 people get in. Halfway up to the next floor up the elevator cable snaps, it crashes to the floor. Everyone else dies in the elevator except me. How did I survive?

#53 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

What 4-letter word can be written forward, backward or upside down, and can still be read from left to right?

#56 in https://www.rd.com/list/brain-teasers/ 

Bonus Riddles:

What is the question you can ask all day, get different answers for the same, and they would still be correct?

#4 in https://www.missmalini.com/2018/04/17/7-super-confusing-riddles-that-are-complete-head-scratchers/ 

Two fathers and two sons go fishing. Each of them catches one fish each. So, why do they bring home only three fish?

#5 in https://www.missmalini.com/2018/04/17/7-super-confusing-riddles-that-are-complete-head-scratchers/ 

Mom

¨It’s so amazing 

What a little word can do-

It fills the heart

With warmth and love

That lasts a lifetime through.

Happy Mother’s Day¨

By: Unknown

It’s the last poem of the 2021 school year and even though mother’s day passed, you should still say that you appreciate her and all of the things that she does for you. I hope y’all have a great summer and see y’all next year. Good luck out there seniors.

Sincerely,

The Passionate Poet