By: Libby Sanchez & Jaelyn Morales

Maria Huezo, a student who gives nothing short of her best. Through the years, she has never turned in an assignment until she was 100% sure it was her best work, and all the hard work has definitely paid off. Her grades have exceeded the average students, and she has maintained her position as the number one ranked student in Pleasanton High School’s Class of 2023. The most humble classmate has earned her title as the Valedictorian, and her peers are beyond honored to celebrate it with her. 

Maria is planning on attending Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas beginning this fall. “My family didn’t want me to go far, and I didn’t want to go too far either. It’s close to home, and I look forward to being there with my friends in a new environment,” Maria said. She plans on majoring in biology, and eventually going into medical school to obtain her license in order to become a general surgeon in her future. “I’m signing myself up for 12 more years of school, but I think I have a good chance at this goal,” she states. Someone as hardworking as Maria, there is no doubt in the world she will eventually get her goal. In high school, Maria has excelled at helping her classmates in their studies, in band, and just been an amazing friend to her peers. It should come as no surprise that she will one day be saving lives the way she wants, caring for others is one of Maria’s best traits. Not only doing the best for herself, but making sure those around her are doing their best as well, and if she can help, she will.

A leader like Maria is inspired by those around her, and those inspirations are none other than her older brother, Juan Huezo, a Class of 2022 graduate, and our very own world history teacher, Ms. Infante. Juan, who just graduated last year, has always been a constant presence throughout Maria’s life, and as soon as she entered high school, the two were inseparable, even combining friend groups. It’s no surprise that Maria has chosen her brother as one of her inspirations, he’s always motivated her to do her best and give nothing less. “He’s one of the most hardworking people I know, I guess it just made me want to work harder, to match him in a way. He always does his best, and that’s all I ever try to do. I don’t know if I would have been as motivated to fight for my rank if it weren’t for him,” said the Valedictorian. Maria is lucky to have him, even as she closes this chapter of her life! “I hope she continues to strive, she’s smart and genuine, she can get anywhere in life,” stated Juan. Along with her brother, a fellow PHS teacher has also played a very important factor in Maria’s succeeding title as Valedictorian. “Ms. Infante was my teacher sophomore year, but it feels like she’s been my teacher every year. Even after sophomore year, she still found time to stop and talk, ask me how I am, how my education is going, just showing that she still cares. It really made a difference and it pushed me to do better, so I am really grateful for her presence these last few years,” Maria says. Pleasanton High School is lucky to have teachers like Mrs. Infante pushing students to be better, and even more lucky to have students like Maria who follow in the footsteps of such amazing role models. “There’s a quote by Malcolm X that fits Maria perfectly, and it says “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” It is a clear precedent that shows she can accomplish anything the future has in store for her. Maria, you are truly a gifted person, it has been a privilege and an honor to see you flourish and grow into the person you have become,” stated Ms. Infante. 

Maria has a bright future ahead of her, one in which the graduating Class of 2023 will hear about and think “Wow. I went to high school with her.” To Maria, and the rest of the Class of 2023, we wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavors, never stop striving for better!

By: Shyanne Sexton & Kassidy Vickers

Pleasanton High School has announced that Connor Lopez is the salutatorian for the class of 2023. As our school and community prepare to celebrate the amazing accomplishments of its seniors, Connor’s achievement serves as a beaming example of the hard work and dedication that Pleasanton High School students strive for. 

Connor is truly an amazing student. According to his teachers and peers he is a joy to be around, always making his peers and teachers laugh. He is incredibly intelligent, always up to date on his current events, getting outstanding grades, and bettering those around him. Connor is someone who does not let anything bring him down and strives for perfection. He manages to find an equal balance between his academics, his extracurriculars, his family, and his friends. Since the first rankings were given freshman year, Connor worked hard and remained determined to maintain his top two ranking.

Connor will be furthering his education at Texas State, majoring in Political Science and pre law and aspires to be a lawyer.  For him, law is an excellent match that fits his personality and skill set. Connor has not only the intelligence for this field but also excellent argumentation skills that will allow him to succeed. And whilst working towards his degree, Connor hopes to attain an internship at TXST. 

Connor is a tremendous musician who has developed into a fantastic trumpet player throughout his high school career. He is an outstanding leader and has been an excellent example for all band students. Throughout the years Connor has received many awards in band, ranging from most improved musician to one of our outstanding musicians and marchers. He has a unique personality that has contributed to a huge change in the PHS program. And out of all his outstanding accomplishments Connor says that, “Going to state ensemble in band with Kevin Tucker, Cecar Garcia, Monque, Michael Lister was definitely one of the greatest.”

Connor’s achievements here at PHS are nothing short of remarkable, but not without giving credit to the teachers who have impacted him. Every student has that one teacher that made a difference and stood out to them among the rest, and for Connor Mrs. Solis was just that. It was an easy choice for him when being asked who had the greatest impact, “Mrs. Solis understands me more than most.”  According to Mrs. Solis, Connor has been nothing short of astounding, “ With Connor, I have been lucky to have the opportunity to work with him one-on-one when preparing for auditions and with a small group of individuals. I’m going to miss him, but he’s off to bigger and better things. Connor is someone who strives for perfection and always gives 150%. He has worked extremely hard to get to where he is and I’m so proud of him. He truly is an outstanding individual who is going to do great things!” As graduation grows closer and closer Mrs. Solis hopes for him to know that, “Texas State is receiving someone with lots of energy, an infectious laugh, incredible talent, dramatic burps, strong opinions, outstanding leadership, and amazing dance skills. Texas State is not ready for your energy but go make a change. You have worked so hard to get to where you are. Go achieve your goals and reach your dreams Connor, you know where to find me if you need anything. I’m sooooooo proud of you! Good luck!”

Throughout Connors high school years, Connor’s parents have been there to encourage him and believed in him every step of the way. Connor has achieved so much and his parents are more than proud, “We are so, so proud of him for being salutatorian. It feels like it’s an acknowledgement of how dedicated he has always been to excelling at academics. It’s hard to find the right words to describe how proud we are of him!” There is an amazing future prepared for Connor and his parents are just as excited as everyone else to see him find the path that fulfills him. Going into this new chapter of his life, Connor’s family wanted to leave him with a reminder, “…no matter where he goes or what he does, we will ALWAYS love and support him. And we want him to know that we are so proud and feel so blessed that we get to be his parents.” 

Connor has an amazing future ahead of him and left a great legacy behind him. PHS has been lucky to have such an amazing student. So to Connor and the rest of the class of 2023, yall have been the best role models and most influential class. We wish yall the best of luck for everything that comes after your time here at PHS!!

By: Farah Standley and Letizia Perrino

You know what time it is… with the JV baseball team’s season coming to a hard-fought close, the Varsity team pushes onto Regional Quarterfinals, the second round in the playoffs. Your Eagles went completely undefeated in District with a record of 12-0, including huge wins such as,  a 22-0 win against Carrizo Springs, and a 11-0 win against Uvalde. The team swept Orange Grove in Bi-District 5-2 and 13-9 to advance to Area, and won 2 games to 1 against Zapata to advance to Regional Quarterfinals against Sinton. We are excited to see what the future holds for this very talented group of athletes.

Diego Luna and Ryan Benevides, two of our Senior starters on the team, both feel Pleasanton baseball has so far been an amazing experience in their lives. Both of their favorite things about their high school baseball career is playing with friends they grew up with and just enjoying every moment as team bonding, especially on trips. They also both agree that their biggest accomplishment in high school baseball is being able to make plays and cool diving catches in the outfield for their team. Diego’s goal for the season is to have his best batting average so far, and Ryan’s is to continue to contribute to the team the best he can. 

The team plans to not let off the gas and beat everyone that stands in the way, and we all sure hope that is exactly what happens. Every single player on the team is extremely pumped and ready to take on the Pirates. Really big things could be ahead, so be ready…because the team is!

By: Brian Avery and Dev Patel

Welcome to the last ROTC article of the year! This month, the ROTC participated in many different activities, so let’s not waste any time and get right to it!
The first thing we will be covering is the ROTC Drill team! They went to nationals last month. Nationals were held in Daytona Beach, Florida! Cadet Major Courtney Cearly was recognized as the best overall driller at the event, so congratulations Courtney! The Eagle Battalion was a part of the Battle of the Flowers Parade for Fiesta in San Antonio on April 28th. They marched with other battalions from different ROTC programs, and Valdemar “Val” Herrera marched at the front, carrying the U.S. flag. The Battalion had a blast participating in the parade, and it was great to spend time with other ROTC members!

  We asked several ROTC members about their thoughts on the ROTC program as the year draws to a close. Val Herrera, a Command Sergeant Major who graduates this year, praised the development of the ROTC program, “My first year is nothing like what we have today. A lot of competitions we didn’t place at, but compared to now, we have trophies in the lunchroom, lobby. These last two years we have really excelled.” Cadet Staff Sergeant also praised the growth the ROTC program has experienced, “It makes a difference on our performance, and how well we do. For being a small town, we really are excelling.” Val agreed, stating that he believed they were being held to a higher standard, which contributed heavily to their success. Colonel Wynder believes that the ROTC program has only improved since he joined 4 years ago, the program better than it was the year before. “When Cadets want to be here, they get involved, and it becomes a family atmosphere.” When asked about the performance of the Cadets, he said “I know that no matter what a cadet comes with when they come here, I know they are going to reach their max potential because we challenge them and encourage them, and they meet their goals.” 

Val is heading out for active military duty whenever he graduates high school. Good luck to Val, and the rest of the ROTC program in all their future endeavors!!

By: Alexandra Garcia 

This May of 2023 the PHS journalism staff would like to recognize Coach Salinas as our Teacher Spotlight. We had the opportunity to interview him and get great feedback about his teaching and coaching life here at PHS.

Coach Salinas first graduated from just down the road at Jourdanton High School, and when it came time for college,… he says, “After bouncing around to a few different colleges and taking some time away to just work, I finally decided to return to UTSA and finish my degree in Kinesiology.”

Coach Salinas has now been teaching here at PHS for 10 years. When he first started he only taught geometry, but after 3 years he started teaching Algebra 1 along with geometry to the freshman class.

Coach Salinas was also known for coaching football and basketball for the first 7 years here at PHS but eventually decided to take a step away from coaching to be there for his wife and kids.

He was first inspired to teach because he wanted to impact students and our Atascosa County. 

He says “I grew up in this community and feel that I can relate to many students on this campus.”

Originally he wanted to become a coach before he wanted to become a teacher because of the impact his coaches had on his life. But not long after he says he believed he had fallen in love with teaching as the side job of coaching, and feels that he still can make a difference with every student he teaches along with students he coached. 

Coach Salinas says “When things are tough, I like to look at this Dr. Seuss quote which hangs in my room. It reads, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better.  It’s not.” My goal here is to ensure that students feel like I care about who they are, besides being a student in my class.”

“I also really enjoy Algebra and working with Freshman students because I feel that I can make a stronger impact on their high school experience and understand expectations on our campus.”

He states that one of his favorite parts of teaching here is “seeing the growth of my students every year. Every student has something special about themselves, and I enjoy having a year to watch my students grow and find their way here at PHS.”

Even with teaching, Coach Salinas stays busy outside school as well. He says “Since I have kids, most of my weekends consist of kid activities, like the Zoo or Sea World. But when I have free time to myself, I enjoy playing golf with some friends/coworkers. I’m also in grad school to one day become an Assistant Principal/Principal, so that takes up most of my time outside of here.”

PHS is so fortunate to have Coach Salinas here and wish to thank him for all that he does!

Welcome to the last Poll of the 2022-2023 school year! This month, we asked you a slew of different questions, so lets get into it!

We asked you about what you would miss when the school year would draw to a close, and the popular answer was “My Friends!” It’s great to have such strong bonds, and we hope you are all able to stay in contact and spend time together over the summer! After that, we gave everyone a chance to shout-out someone or multiple people who made an impact on you! Here are our answers!

A Warm Summer Breeze-

The trees whisper in the breeze

The forest peaceful, quiet, and serene.

The warm breeze like a soft caress,

Momentarily eliminating all stress.

Without delay it carries on

Leaving the place in silence when it’s gone.

A summer day, a summer breeze.

Softly whispered through the trees.

The summer breeze, softly it comes,

Quickly it leaves,

Causing soft whispers in the trees.

It came and soon left, a summer breeze.

By: Christina Rossetti

Summer is almost here and the times we share in school are coming to an end. The seniors are getting ready to start the next chapter of their lives. Most will be going to college, the work force, or the military. Friends will have to say goodbye, yet still can hang out in the summer and make some more memories before school starts again.

Sincerely,

The Passionate Poet

By: Savannah Valdez

Are you looking for a sweet treat that will sweep everyone off of their feet? Then you came to the right place! For this month’s issue the sweet treat is Strawberry cake cookies! These are a great summer treat for you and your friends.

Here are some ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 box of strawberry cake mix
• 2 whole eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup of powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup of flour (for rolling dough)
• Cookie sheet

Let’s start baking:

1. To start you will begin preheating the oven to 375 F and line a cookie sheet with parchment or silicone liners.
2. In a medium sized bowl insert the 2 eggs and vegetable oil and whisk till combined well.
3. Add into the medium sized bowl your box of cake mix and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Once added, mix all ingredients together well.
4. Pour the ⅓ cup of flour mixture into a bowl. Using a cookie or ice cream scooper, you will make balls of dough about the size of a golf ball. Once you roll the balls of dough, you then place them in the flour mixture then once coated, you can place them on the cookie sheet.
5. Once you have all the dough balls on the sheet, you can then insert them into the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes till they slightly rise.
6. Once risen, you will take them out of the oven, let them cool, and enjoy!

There you have it guys, all it takes is 6 simple steps to make these delicious cookies. You will be the one they won’t forget this summer! Enjoy!

By: Aaliyah Herrera 

Summer is just around the corner and this month’s issue we have mainly summer questions for this month’s advice column. All questions will be anonymously by students here at PHS. Let’s get right into it!

Here to start us off, “what are some fun things to do during the summer if you have no money and you have no transportation? – anonymous” some ideas are taking a walk in your neighborhood, having a picnic or camping out in your backyard, or even inviting friends over for a sleepover at your house. 

Next, “what are some ways to keep track of your memories for this school year? – anonymous” what could help is vlogging or even writing down about your memories or fun experiences from this year! Having them fresh in your mind would help out even more to get exactly every detail right in that particular memory. 

Furthermore, “what is a good way to plan out a summer trip – anonymous” a good way that could help you plan is communicating with the people you are traveling with to figure out a good date to schedule the trip doing so will help a lot and make things easier when it comes to the day of the trip. Assign who will bring what on the trip so everybody could pitch in for the trip. And find a place to stay as soon as possible for the trip. 

Following, “what can keep me occupied during this summer? – anonymous” some options are taking a week long vacation whether it be a beach trip or going camping doing this will keep you occupied and exposed to outdoor activities. Also taking a trip to another state or city is a great way to get out and explore new places!

Last but not least, “what are some indoor activities to do during this summer? – anonymous” If you’re wanting to keep cool this summer some indoor activities could consist of going to a museum or indoor attraction such as, arcade, skate rink, or even an aquarium! These are just some ideas there are so much more you could find online or near you!

These were such great questions for this month’s issue. If you enjoyed this and want your questions answered in the next advice column next year go to your class in google classroom and go to the POLL where you can ask your questions there!

By: Myame Lara

A new addition to the Evil Dead franchise has recently hit screens worldwide and made $40 million alongside its debut. Gaining a rating of 4 stars out of 5 on Rotten Tomatoes, and  6.9 stars out of 10 on IMDb, the movie also gained mixed reviews from the public. Evil Dead Rise follows sisters Beth and Ellie, played by Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland, reunion as it gets cut short by “the rise of flesh-possessing demons.”

This movie is definitely not for the faint-hearted, as it is packed with gore and uncomfortable scenes. Evil Dead Rise wastes no time to get the show started, and as much as I loved it, it quickly became obvious why this movie received mixed reviews from critics all around. Along with the movie’s quick start, I expected a clear storyline to play a part in it, but to my disappointment there was none. Though a failing storyline, this movie was a great addition to the Evil Dead franchise and has introduced us to new characters that are quickly becoming fan favorites!

If I had to put a rating on this movie, I would rate it a solid 6/10. The movie had great potential and I would recommend it to any gore-loving horror fans. Just keep the snacks in the cabinet for this one!

By: May Smith

  Aries – This is a great time to focus on your finances. You may be feeling particularly ambitious and driven when it comes to your career, and your hard work is likely to pay off. You may also find yourself attracted to new money-making opportunities, so be sure to keep your eyes open for any potential investments or side hustles that could boost your income. Avoid being stubborn in the matters of the heart and look to resolve issues at the earliest.

   Taurus – This month is an excellent time to focus on your career goals. You may have new opportunities coming your way that will allow you to showcase your talents and skills. Take advantage of these opportunities and show off what you’re capable of. You may also see an increase in your finances. If you’re in a relationship, you and your partner may feel more connected and in tune with each other. However, be mindful of communication issues.

  Gemini – Focus on building your reputation and expanding your network this month. You may find that your hard work pays off as you receive recognition and opportunities for advancement. Additionally, this is a great time to consider investing in your education or skill set to further your professional growth. Avoid taking loans of any kind. If in a relationship, be mindful of any possessive or controlling tendencies that may arise.

  Cancer – Your social and networking skills are likely to bring new opportunities your way. You may get a chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share your goals, and this could lead to success in your career. Financially, this is a good time for investments and new projects. With proper planning and guidance, you can achieve financial growth. This is a great time to strengthen existing relationships, both romantic and platonic.

  Leo – You are likely to receive recognition for your hard work and your efforts will be appreciated by superiors. You may also receive a promotion or a raise in your current job. However, it is important to be cautious and not let success get to your head. You will be able to manage your finances well. You may receive some unexpected financial gains. For those who are single, this month may bring opportunities to start a new relationship.

  Virgo – You may feel more confident and optimistic about your future prospects, and this may encourage you to take on new projects or start a new business venture. You may also find yourself drawn to learning new skills or pursuing higher education. In matters of the heart, you may find yourself feeling more adventurous and open-minded. Try to incorporate some relaxation techniques into your daily routine to manage stress.

  Libra – You may feel a desire to take control of your finances and investments. This is a good time to review your financial situation and make any necessary adjustments. You may also find yourself drawn to spiritual and mystical pursuits, seeking deeper insights into the mysteries of life. You may find yourself confronting issues around trust. It’s important to be honest with yourself and your partner about your feelings.

  Scorpio – This month, your focus will be on partnerships and collaborations in your career. It’s important to lean on your colleagues and work together to achieve your goals. You may find that you are more successful when working in a team than when working alone. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to help you make smart investments. Singles may be drawn to people who have a strong sense of teamwork.

  Sagittarius – You are likely to be busy with projects and responsibilities, but you have the energy and enthusiasm to tackle them all. Consider saving more and cutting back on unnecessary expenses. You may also find that a new opportunity for additional income arises. In your personal relationships, you may find that conflicts arise, but with an open and honest dialogue, you can find a resolution. Keep your energy levels high by eating healthy food.

  Capricorn – Romance is in the air this month, and you are likely to be swept off your feet. If you’re single, you may meet someone new who shares your interests and values. This could be someone you meet through a creative pursuit or a social event. Your career and finances are also looking up this month. The stars will bring positive energy and recognition to your creative talents. Financially you may receive unexpected income or a bonus.

  Aquarius – Your career may take an exciting turn this month. This is a good time to network, make connections, and promote your skills and talents. Keep an eye out for any potential investments or business opportunities that may come your way. In personal life, you may have some difficult conversations with your partner, but the outcome will be positive and lead to a deeper understanding of each other.

  Pisces – You may find yourself feeling a little restless and uncertain about your career path. You may feel that you’re not making progress as quickly as you would like, and this can lead to some frustration. Gradually, there will be improvement in your work life. Financially, this is a good time to focus on long-term investments, as they are likely to pay off in the future. You may have a strong urge to reconnect with people you haven’t seen in a while.

By: Libby Sanchez and Jaelyn Morales

As the 2022-2023 school year is coming to an end, the senior class is preparing themselves to graduate and start the next chapter of their lives. Even though most of us don’t wanna grow up, these last 4 years have prepared us to go out into the world and strive for success. On May 26th, 2023, at 8pm, the senior class will gather for one more goodbye. It’s hard not to find it all a little bittersweet and while our class has had many ups and downs, Long story short, we survived! 

For the class of 23 favorites, the seniors voted in favor of silver and green as the class colors, the white rose as the class flower, and “Never Grow Up” by Taylor Swift as the class song. These past 4 years might’ve been happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time, but they were also years full of many joyous memories with friends and family. There are five seniors graduating from the journalism class and staff editors on the Quill graduating are as follows: Editor in Chief- Libby Sanchez, Copy Editor- Jaelyn Morales, Photo Editor- Noah Ramos, and Managing Editor- Brian Avery. We are all going to miss journalism very much, but not as much as we are going to miss Mrs. Minniear who has been an amazing role model. 

As a class, we all gave our “blood”, sweat, and tears for this moment and survived the Great War. I want to wish every single person in our class the best of luck in their future endeavors and with whatever path they choose to follow. Congratulations Class of 2023, “Long live the walls we crashed through. I had the time of my life, with you” and lastly I want to remind everyone that Taylor Swift was right, “You’re on your own kid.”

By: Alex Richter

Under the summer sun, one afternoon I was sitting on the beach. My brother had been entirely buried in sand, as I stood on top of him in victory. Even though he had let me do it, I liked the feeling of winning something, even though I wasn’t really. His brown hair was dropped toward the center of his face, and he looked up, smiling.

“This is actually way better than sitting in the sun, thanks Tom,” my brother, Will said.

“Wait what? That’s not fair, you weren’t supposed to enjoy it,” I spat.

“Eh, don’t worry about it. I’m going to unbury myself anyway,”

“The water looks rough, I kinda want to go out… Will you come with me?”

“Yeah, just give me a moment,” he strained. 

I watched as he pulled his torso slowly out of the sand, struggling to get out. Of course, I didn’t help, yeah sure I buried him, that doesn’t make me responsible for unburying him. Placing his hands on either side of him, he lifted one leg after the other out of the sand, panting slightly. I was beginning to question if it was really as hard as he was making it seem.

“Oh, please. It’s not that hard coming out of the sand ‘innit?”

“And you’re actually watching me struggle, not doing anything about it, don’t tell me anything like that. Tom, you’re a spoiled brat,” he breaths, lifting himself fully out. “You know, if you weren’t my brother I’d probably hate you, but unfortunately you are.”

“Uh-huh, yeah sure.” I spoke, thinking. I have an idea… “Race me, one lap around that big rock over there.”

“That’s too far, Tom. You know that.”

“You’re pretty scared even though you’re… What? How old are you? Thirty?”
“I am 21, Tom. Old is not a way to describe me just yet.”

“Please, just come on,” I had said, laughing. 

As we lined up at the same distance from the water, I yelled and swiftly took a deep breath, diving into the warm ocean. Swimming was not a hobby that I often did, but I was feeling confident. Clear waters were in every direction, I had already made it out pretty far. Veering upward, I spotted Will, swimming as fast as his legs could take him.

Morning would’ve been a more suitable time for swimming in the ocean, because it would’ve been cooler. Questioning my distance, I stared in wonder, in the distance.

Wait, where is Will? 

Ten seconds prior, I had not noticed Will hitting the rock on accident; he was then slipping further into the depths of the sea. I wish I would have noticed him sooner, I might’ve been able to save him. I watched him perish in the summer of 2018, not knowing what to do. Of course, I was only 14, naive and stupid.

Please come back, please.

As if I was a god with the ability of resurrection, I had wished with all my heart that we would see each other again. During that time, I was just watching, he was probably looking right at me. Just as I was starting to grow up, I had been hit with a wave of sadness and depression that no words would be capable of describing. Knowing Will, he would not wish grief upon me, he would say: “Listen to me, Tom; because of you I am dead, yet I felt so alive when it happened. Mourning me is unnecessary if you were the best brother anyone could ask for, and I’ll always thank you for that.” He’d say something poetic like that.

Nevertheless, I am successful in my life, and I wouldn’t let the death of a loved one change that. We all experience loss at some point, but it’s a part of life. Rolling with it can be necessary at some point when that happens. The point is, not to forever mourn them, but to move on and continue to be happy.