Salutatorian: Blake Moos

By: Heaven Marquez

Salutatorian Blake Moos posing for a prom picture.

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!

Getting on with Graduation

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!

Eagles Entering Playoffs

By: Heaven Marquez

The Eagles gather together for a pep talk. PC: Jay Garcia

The Pleasanton Eagles Boys’ Baseball team has done incredibly well this season, finishing their first round of district and moving on to the second. The boys have started April strong, beating the San Antonio Highlands 8-1 on April 1st. The Eagles played well, and carried that into their next game on April 5th against the San Antonio Homeschool Wolverines, also defeating them with a final score of 9-2. The Eagles began their district season on April 9th, and won 9-5 against the Somerset Bulldogs. The boys have kept up the good work, playing a non-district game on April 10th against Corpus Christi Miller and triumphing over them 7-2. The next district game against the Hondo Owls on April 13th ended in a 1-0 win. Their season has stayed successful, earning another non-district win on April 16th against Devine 11-1, ending the first round of district. The second round of district has only just begun on April 20th, winning over the Somerset Bulldogs once again with a score of 7-2.

The Eagles have done really well this season, playing through adversity and making it out 1st in district so far. The team has even been recognized in the San Antonio VYPE Magazine’s Top 10 Baseball Teams in the San Antonio Area from 1A-4A. The Eagles are ranked number three, just below Navarro in first and Shiner in second, which is an amazing job! Great job boys, and keep up the great work in playoffs! Pride Pride!

JROTC: More Than Yelling

By: Heaven Marquez

The JROTC program at Pleasanton High School is often misunderstood as a place for students to get yelled at or to join the military right after high school, but it’s actually so much more than that. 

“The mission of JROTC is to motivate young people to be better citizens,” states Colonel Wynder, head of the JROTC organization. “Life skills [such as] leadership, citizenship, self-awareness, all those areas are things that cadets can learn and grow from. Not only during their high school experience, but when they go on to do something else with their lives as well.” 

Along with these important abilities, JROTC also assists students in preparing for the future. Colonel Wynder said, “We have everybody prepare resumes, talking about being able to interview and speak highly of themselves-describe who they are and what their goals are. So everything we’re doing is setting them up for what happens after high school.” 

The JROTC program also assisted in the Poteet Strawberry Festival 5K Run. For the 19 & Under category, senior Guadalupe Quintana came in third place, and Xavier Rodriguez finished fourth in his age category. The program’s color guard presented the flags as well for the national anthem. 

“That was a big significant activity,” recalled Colonel Wynder. “… because we got to interact with the mayor of Poteet. He and his wife put the event on… It was a good event, [a] bunch of people out there.”

The Poteet Strawberry Festival on Saturday, April 10th was also a remarkable day for the program. “… It’s the big meet, Central Catholic. 35 cadets will be involved, and we have some cadets that are going to do the parade from Poteet.” 

The JROTC had quite a successful meet, with the Varsity Male PT Team finishing 1st, the Woman PT team coming in 3rd. The JLab academic team ended in 2nd place, and the co-ed color guard also came in 2nd overall. Cadets also did extremely well in individual events, with several placing incredibly high. 

May 20th is the award ceremony JROTC in the Eagle football stadium, where each company is able to march and the drill team performs. They recognize the top companies and have a “change in command” ceremony. “… it’s where Edward Uhl will pass on his responsibilities to the next cadet who will be in charge of the cadet battalion next year. So it’s a busy time,” said Colonel Wynder. JROTC is improving the lives of many students and is creating a better future for them. Great job JROTC and keep up the great work! Pride Pride!

The JROTC group picture!

Hole in One

By: Heaven Marquez

Pictured (left to right): Jake Casias, Reed Foster, Brady Stevens, Travis Garcia, Matthew Garcia, Coach Guerra

As the golf season carries on, the Eagles also continue doing well in different tournaments. February was an eventful month for both the boys and girls golf teams, with successful tournaments for all. On February 1st, the first tournament for the girls was held in Devine, with the team taking 4th place with 463 points. The boys began on February 3rd, playing in the Somerset Tournament and winning 1st place with a total of 350 points. The 8th was a success for the girls in the Warren Tournament, coming in 9th place and scoring 454 points. The girls team also did well on February 22nd, earning 4th place in Devine with a score of 426. February 23rd was another great day for the boys team, with them winning 1st in Devine on a score of 341 points. March was another great month for the Eagles golf teams, which began on March 1st. The girls earned 4th place in the Jourdanton Tournament, ending with 416 points. 

“It’s [the team] improved a lot with people coming back from other sports and just overall play,” said senior Trent Crady. “Many have improved by a couple of strokes.” The boys continued the great work on March 3rd in the Jourdanton Boys Tournament, getting 1st place with 324 points. On March 9th, the girls team won 4th place with 412 points. March 12th and 13th were triumphant for the boys, winning 1st place with 674 points at the two day Uvalde Coyote Invitational Tournament. March 15th was also successful for the boys team, coming in 1st place once again with a score of 335. On March 17th, the girls team also did really well in the Randolph Tournament, arriving in 2nd place with a final score of 426 points. 

With district just around the corner, both teams are continuing to play strong. “District is looking really good for the team. We have a better chance to move past district and continue going forward,” stated Crady. The district golf tournament will determine who goes on to the next round, and both teams have a great shot at making it. Great job Eagles and keep up the good work!

Solo and Ensemble

By: Heaven Marquez

Solo and ensemble is a competition for the band members of PHS to showcase their musical talent for a chance at going to State- and compete they did!

“Students rehearse and get [music] ready specifically for this contest”, said band director Solis. “It’s something we don’t usually do in band class, it’s something they do outside of school.” The students can either compete individually or can form a small group to play a song of their choice together. The competition, which was supposed to be in February, was postponed due to the snow storm we experienced, and rescheduled to Thursday, March 4th. 

The mighty Eagle band did incredibly well this year with 47 participants and 17 advancing on to State. Those moving on will be soloists freshman Emily Bernal, sophomores Michaela Anguiano, Kevin Tucker, Kamryn Kendrick, and juniors William Rowe and Addyson Dority. Ensembles that are continuing include senior clarinets Claire Benavidez, Diya Chandra, and Valentina Gasca-Tellez, with another woodwind group being made up of seniors Mya Cashiola, Abigail Perez, and juniors Savannah Clark, and Jadelyn Garcia. Advancing as well is a brass quintet which includes seniors Reese Decker, Austin King, Cody Mills, junior Kristina Mertz, and sophomore Cesar Garcia. Another woodwind group going on to State consists of juniors Jadelyn Garcia, Aries Uhl, Brody Wornell, and freshman Jaden Ogg.

“Once we go to State, we basically play our piece again in front of another judge, and… if we advance further, we go to Area…,” said senior clarinet Diya Chandra. UIL has recently decided to have groups and individuals record their performances to judge due to COVID regulations. State will be hosted either in late May or early June. Good luck to everyone advancing and congratulations to all of those who participated. Great job everyone!

(Above) Junior Addyson Dority

Seniors (left to right) Claire Benavidez, Valentina Gasca-Tellez, and Diya Chandra

Pictured above is (left to right) Savannah Clark, Jadelyn Garcia, Abigail Perez, and Mya Cashiola.

(Above from left to right) Austin King, Cesar Garcia, Cody Mills, Reese Decker, Kristina Mertz.

Sweet Treat: No Bake Cheesecake

By: Heaven Marquez 

Cheesecake is definitely one of my top 5 favorite desserts, and not having to bake just makes it taste even better. Today I will be introducing you to your next favorite dessert- Oreo cheesecake. 

For the COOKIE CRUST you’ll need-

  • 24 Oreo cookies (just the cookie part- no filling) about 1 ½  cups
  • 6 tablespoons of melted butter

For the CHEESECAKE FILLING you will need-

  • 16 ounces of cream cheese
  • ½ cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla
  • 2 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream
  • 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar
  • 15 crushed cookies (about a cup) 
  • Hot fudge
  • Cookie filling from 24 Oreos for cookie crust

Instructions-

OREO CRUST

  1. Add the 24 Oreos to a food processor until the cookies are finely crushed.
  2. In a large mixing bowl add the crushed cookies and melted butter together and stir.
  3. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan and press into the bottom and sides.
  4. Place into the refrigerator to chill.

CHEESECAKE FILLING

  1. In a large mixing bowl beat the cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the sugar, vanilla, and cookie filling. 
  2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream with a hand mixer until it thickens. Add in powdered sugar and beat until peaks form.
  3. Fold 2 cups whipped cream mixture and crushed Oreos (reserve ¼ cups for garnish) into the cream cheese.
  4. Pour mixture on top of OREO CRUST and spread.
  5. Place into refrigerator and chill for 3-4 hours.
  6. Garnish remaining whipped cream, remaining crushed Oreos, and hot fudge.

Eagles Start Off District Strong

 By: Heaven Marquez

The Eagles huddle before their first district game against Navarro.

The Eagles Boys’ Basketball team has been busy over the Winter Break with different games at least twice a week. On December 11, the Pleasanton Eagles faced the Luling Eagles and beat them in a close game. The final score was 87-43 with sophomore RJ Marquez being a top scorer for Pleasanton with 24 points along with fellow sophomore Layne Dowdy and junior Juan Lopez contributing 12 points each along with junior Reagan Moore’s 10. December 15 brought another win for the Eagles against Uvalde Coyotes, beating the Coyotes 79-62. “ We’re using this time to get ready for district,”  said head coach Coach Marquez. The boys kept a close game against the Beeville Trojans on December 18, but beat them out in the fourth quarter 56-69. Unfortunately, December 19 brought a loss for Pleasanton against the Southwest Dragons. A tight game with a final score of 51-49, the Eagles were led by RJ Marquez with 15 points and Layne Dowdy with 10. On December 21, the Pleasanton Eagles traveled to New Braunfels to play the Unicorns. Sadly, Pleasanton fell to the New Braunfels Unicorns with a final score of 81-35. The top scorer was RJ Marquez with 9 points. San Antonio Christian traveled down to the Eagle’s Nest to play on December 30. The Eagles lost to SAC as well with a score of 55-70. Sophomore Jake Casias was the leading scorer with 20 points along with assistance from RJ Marquez and Layne Dowdy who each had 10. 

The new 2021 year started off well for the Eagles who played Davenport on January 2 and won. Top scorers included RJ Marquez with 16 points and Estevan Jackson with 13, both contributing greatly to the 72-53 win. The good year continued on to the next game against Fox Tech on the fifth of January. The victory was due to the help of lead scorers Layne Dowdy with 16 and RJ Marquez with 12. The Eagles defeated the Buffaloes 74-47. Brooks Academy came down to Pleasanton on January 8 and defeated the Eagles 69-61. District began for the Eagles on January 16 against the Navarro Panthers where the boys picked up a win 60-52. Top scorers included RJ Marquez with 21 points and JD Guerra with 14. The Eagles then traveled to Gonzales to defeat the Apaches 68-38. Again, top scorers were sophomores RJ Marquez with 22 and JD Guerra with 14 points.

The Gift of Giving

By: Heaven Marquez

For the eighth consecutive year, the Pleasanton Police Department is hosting Blue Santa on December 18th, but due to COVID-19 things are a little different. Instead of having a big celebration, the Police Department is hosting a drive-by for those who need gifts on Christmas. Blue Santa is a program funded by the community to provide gifts to children in the Pleasanton city limits. Last year, Blue Santa received over 500 presents to give to 180 children and supplied around 60 families with gifts. “Every year we get a lot of families… who are in need of a little assistance,” said Patrol Sergeant Jessi Chia. “[Due to COVID] We definitely have more families in need this year.” 

The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone in the community, whether it be in a business sense, or health issues, but the Police Department is still doing business as usual with the annual Blue Santa. Chief Ronald Sanchez stated, “That is our main focus-it’s the children… It’s very important to us that these children have a Christmas.” The Chief has said that every year, the Department averages at least 200 children that the Blue Santa will provide gifts to in the community. 

Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, there will not be any festivities where people can wrap the gifts with the officers. “Usually, we collect all these bags of gifts and we have kind of like a wrapping party…and that’s going to be different this year, too,” sadly announced Sergeant Chia. “ [Now] We’re kind of wrapping them as we go.” The Department has adapted to the harsh pandemic and will carry on with helping the community like normal, and they are willing to take donations at the Station. Thank you to the Pleasanton Police Department for the very generous Blue Santa during this time, and be sure to donate if you’re able to. The staff from “The Quill” wish you a merry Christmas!

Eagle Defeat

By: Heaven Marquez

Lady Eagles sing their alma mater for the last time in the 2020 season.

The Pleasanton Eagles’ volleyball team fell to the Wimberley Texans on Thursday, October 28 for a chance to win Bi-District champs. The Texans, who were first in their district, came down to the Eagle complex, taking a victory over the Eagles in 3 sets. 

“We’re still young,” said head volleyball coach, Gabriel Aguirre. “The young kids are still learning… how to win.” 

The Eagles began rough, with a 25-14 loss in the first set, but began to get into their groove in the second, ending with a loss of 25-20. The Eagles fought hard to win their third set, however, they fell short due to the strong kills and tricky blocks from the Texans, losing  25-22.  

“… we fought back and then they just kinda took it for granted,” stated Coach Aguirre. The Eagles played their hearts out on the court, but it just wasn’t enough to overpower the Wimberley Texans. 

Sadly, the volleyball season has come to an end. However, we are all very proud of the girls who worked so hard to finish their season strong. Way to go Lady Eagles!

Horoscopes

By: Ricky Fabrow

Aries: You shall either travel excessively or have some business with people who are farther away from your home. You might soon enter a period of financial and professional growth. It would also be a very good time to reassess your investments. Any Home Renovation or construction related projects will be high on your agenda.

Taurus: This December promises a lot of success and joy. Whatever job you do your income and efficiency will show great improvement and with romance in the air your beloved will seek commitment. Avoid agreeing so you can be a standing guaranteed for others, it would lead to embarrassment and legal problems. Matters relating to property will take shape during the month´s end and would prove to be positive. 

Gemini: A mysterious force of energy will help you in your need for many important projects without the assistance of anyone. You shall make more money than usual but also expected. There will be very distant travel overseas which will bring joy and happiness with a chance to reunite with an old relative or friend. Be careful with your partners or best friends.

Cancer: This December there will be very little time for socializing however you will enjoy the time you do spend with your family. You will have attracted many people with your creative ideas and will be known this month.

Leo: It is very likely that your income shall increase greatly this month from many things. The people you meet will inspire you to work harder and better. The health of near relatives and friends might cause some worry but will ultimately be nothing.

Virgo: You will take more actions for yourself rather than others and work far harder than before. You might have to travel a distance to find the true cause of your actions and purpose. Students this year will be very successful in their work.

Libra: You’ll be needing lots of comfort this month as you’ll go through an unfortunate series of events that will leave you feeling tired and sad, but a good friend by your side will always help the situation.

Scorpio: If you work somewhere, that place shall change during your time there not knowing if it will be good or bad until it is done, but in the end it will be much better for you. It would be very wise to save up for the month because something unexpected will happen that’ll cost you greatly.

Sagittarius: This December there shall be new opportunities from very unexpected moments. You will find success in many things as well as fairness in most things you will do. It is best to not look at any side of a situation but consider others viewpoints before deciding.

Capricorn: People will look at you for inspiration and make certain decisions. Your partners and colleagues will respect you greatly for carrying certain problems on your back for the team. There will be a jealous friend around so watch out.

Aquarius: There might be some accidental communication problems with friends. Be sure to always double check your work as you will have more wrong than you think. You will get great support from friends and family for any situation.

Pisces: You will enjoy meeting new people and visiting many places. You will be looked up upon the young so be careful with what you do and always try to be inspirational. You will get lots and lots of love.

Causing a “Racquet”

By: Heaven Marquez

Senior Luke Harlos ready to swing against Boerne on October 27, 2020.

The Eagles’ varsity tennis team had a tournament against the La Vernia Bears on Wednesday, October 7. “The final result was Pleasanton-2, La Vernia-10,” stated head tennis coach, Coach Schwab. “So, we did lose, but that’s not to say because [of] lack of talent…” The team has been working hard all season to stay on top of their opponents, but it has proven to be a challenge with new COVID safe regulations. “It’s changed everything we do. The way we practice, the way we play, we have to haul our own water in now,” said Schwab. 

The team has suffered a few losses throughout the season. Senior Cade Macmanus said that they are “losing to teams we usually beat.” He also stated that the upcoming district games would be difficult. Fellow senior Luke Harlos also chimed in to say, “It’s not going very good, but… we’re going to bounce back and become better.” The Eagles were one day away from playing the Devine Warhorses/ Arabians, but according to junior Luke Raney, the team was “pretty prepared, because of practice.” 

The team ended up losing to Devine, 10-1 with the only win coming from freshman Mackenzie Richter. “Devine’s a powerhouse,” stated Coach Schwab. “If we beat Gonzales, we secure fourth place, and we already know that fourth place will be playing Boerne on Tuesday at Somerset.” 

The Eagles ended up beating the Gonzales Apaches 10-0 on Wednesday, October 21 to play the Boerne Greyhounds in a post-district match on Tuesday, October 27 at 2:30 pm. “It was a good victory that put us into fourth place,” Schwab said. “Everybody played really well… and maybe we’ll give Boerne a run for their money.”

The results from the matches against Boerne still have not been released, but, to quote Coach Schawb, “Pride Pride!”

Eagles Struggle Turned Victory

By: Heaven Marquez

Pleasanton’s Toby Garner running in for his first touchdown against Corpus Christi King. (PC- J. Garcia)

Game vs. Hondo

The Pleasanton Eagles varsity football team started off the season against the Hondo Owls after a two week break from football due to Covid, and only one week of practice back on Friday, August 28. The Eagles, unfortunately, were not able to keep up with the Owls, suffering a 31-0 loss. Their scheduled scrimmages were also shut down because of a Covid scare earlier in the month, which also contributed to the defeat, as said by Head Coach Liska. The boys started off rough, but by the third quarter, the Eagles began to get back in the groove of things. However, Hondo used the time of struggle to get ahead and win.

Game vs. Poteet

The Poteet Aggies triumphed over the Pleasanton Eagles on Friday, September 4, with a 16-3 victory. Both teams were neck and neck against each other with a tied score of 3-3, until the third quarter, when the Aggies managed to score a touchdown, making it past the Eagle defense. With a rough pass from Pleasanton finding its way into Aggie territory, Poteet managed to pull through with another touchdown to end the game. This is the first time the Aggies managed to outscore the Eagles since 2009. 

Coach Liska stated, “We were flushed a couple of times, and then a couple of balls were overthrown. Timing, we’ve got to work on and got to get better at it.”

Game vs. Jourdanton

The Pleasanton Eagles fell to the Jourdanton Indians on Friday, September 18 after a rough start from the Indians. The Eagle’s sophomore quarterback Sean Ramos made their first touchdown at the beginning of the second quarter, putting them ahead, however, Jourdanton fought back with a touchdown of their own minutes later, making the score 7-6, with Pleasanton up. After half time, the Indians looked more like the team they were rumored to be, with a touchdown, a two-point conversion, and another touchdown to place them ahead 35-7 at the end of the third. The rest of the game was uneventful on both sides, with Jourdanton victorious. 

Game vs. Devine

The Eagles traveled to the home of the Devine Warhorses to battle on Friday, September 18. Unfortunately, Pleasanton was defeated by the Warhorses 30-7 after 4 long quarters of fighting. Coach Liska stated that the Warhorses use a lot of misdirection while running, which caught the Eagles off guard. The Warhorses scored first in the second quarter, and kept the momentum going the rest of the game, with the Eagles struggling to catch up. However, the Eagles came together during the second half, getting team chemistry back after the rust took over.  The Eagle’s lone touchdown was score by sophomore quarterback Sean Ramos.“Whenever we are together, we know what we can do,” said Ramos. 

Game vs. Corpus Christi

Pleasanton really played to beat the Corpus Christi King Mustangs, with senior running back Toby Garner leading the Eagles to victory. Garner had all three of Pleasanton’s touchdowns, beating the Mustangs 24-6 for the first win of the season. “We just got it done in practice and did what we had to do,” stated Toby. “It was a homecoming win, so that makes it even better. Everyone came out and played their heart out.” The Eagles certainly played out, breaking an 8 game losing streak, from 2019 to now. The Mustangs did manage to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter, putting a few points on the board, but by that time it was too late for them, crowning the Eagles victorious.

The Eagles will play Kingsville King on Friday, October 2 before their district opening against Boerne. 

 

Horoscopes

Aries (March 21- April 19): Aries have a full moon that appears on the 1st, showcasing your intense approach to life. During this month, you will feel drawn to speaking your mind and following your desires. Don’t be surprised if you butt heads with someone else, due to everyone wanting to say what they please in October.

Taurus (April 20- May 20): You will learn a valuable lesson this month, but as you move forward, you will find it becomes easier to express yourself.

Gemini (May 21- June 20): This time is set to pack a particularly emotional punch, and while it may be easier for this sign to accept, that does not mean that it will be easy either. Don’t attempt to go against the flow; instead, follow your ambitions and work smarter, not harder. 

Cancer (June 21- July 22): It will be wise to follow your gut this month. October will give you a leg up when it comes to finding your way around the world. The new moon on the 16th will point you towards home.

Leo (July 23- August 22): This month, you will notice a need to buy stuff. There’s nothing wrong with wanting new things, but make sure you don’t lose sight of what’s actually valuable.

Virgo (August 23- September 22): During October, a sudden warmth and sense of generosity will come over you. Harsh words will be replaced with open ears and you will find greater joy in agreeing with others.

Libra (September 22- October 23): This month, you will find yourself seeking out tasks that suit your skills. Your commitment to equality makes you a leader, especially during a time as crazy as 2020.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21): During the month of October, time with your friends will bring smiles to your face and joy into your heart. Love and relationships will feel chaotic starting October 31st. Expect an emotional outburst, but don’t assume it’s negative.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21): A romantic connection to someone could reach a boiling point early in the month. It does look like an ending is near for you and the person you’re dating. There is one caveat to this- if you have the opportunity to go back to someone you used to love, it’s possible the full moon will help you find resolution. 

Capricorn (December 22- January 19): The full moon on October 1st will bring emotions to the surface. You may hear news of someone that can anger you. It’s also possible that a situation that you have invested in will reach a disappointing outcome. It may be rough, but you will come back from it.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18): Finances are looking sweet this month. You are likely to receive money from any source besides your paycheck. A beneficial financial opportunity is likely to arise through someone of great power and importance.

Pisces (February 19- March 20): As the month opens, you may find that a hasty decision involving money is causing many problems. The best thing you can do is take a step back, assess the situation, and begin moving on. You can always make more money and this experience may have taught you a valuable lesson.

Keeping Up with the COVID-19

By: Heaven Marquez

After these exhausting and boring months in quarantine, Texas governor, Greg Abbott, announced the opening of businesses and activities in the Lone Star State. The announcement on April 27 informed the public of the first phase of the plan to “Open Texas” by explaining detailed “new protocols, guidance, and recommendations.” According to the Texas Department of State Health Services.com, the proposal also included statewide testing and contact tracing to identify Texans with COVID-19 and prevent the further spread of the virus. On May 13, the Texas Tribune announced that Texas organized 49,259 tests, the “highest one-day total reported since the pandemic began.” The Texas Department of State Health Services received most of the test results from laboratories and thus began identifying the illness. Overall, 1,355 new cases were reported on May 13, the “second-highest increase since the state began reporting coronavirus case counts”, with the last amount only being 1,441 cases in early April. The new total of known cases is now at 42,403 people, with over 85% of the 254 Texas counties reporting at least one case. Texas also reported 25 more deaths, bringing the full amount to 1,158, an increase of about 2% from Tuesday, May 12. As of May 21, the current amount of COVID cases has reached 49,912 victims and 1,369 deaths. However, 29,359 people have recovered from the deadly disease. There is hope, and Texas is reopening its doors slowly but surely! 

Boys Basketball Playoffs

By: Heaven Marquez

The Pleasanton Eagles kept up the hard work, winning over the Pearsall Mavericks 100-52 on Monday, February 24. “It’s a great feeling, but we’re not ready for it to be over; we’re gonna go as far as we can,” stated senior forward, Dalton Hobbs. The Eagles were led by senior Santiago Arguijo who had a total of 37 points, Dalton Hobbs with 24, and freshman RJ Marquez contributing with 15 points.

The Eagles played the Sinton Pirates on Friday, February 28, defeating them in vengeance from last year’s loss 68-57. “It [winning] feels really good because they took us out in the third round and we wanted revenge and we wanted to get them back,” said senior guard, Santiago Arguijo. Dalton Hobbs led the Eagles in scoring with 22 points, Santiago Arguijo with 18 and RJ Marquez with 16 points.

The boys went on to play Port Isabel for regional quarterfinalists and made Pleasanton High School history by making it into the regional semi-finals. The Eagles beat the Tarpons 77-47, despite the close calls in the third quarter. “Our transition wore them [the Tarpons] out, and we started making shots, and our momentum went up, and the crowd got into it, and it was just a great feeling just to be there,” freshman RJ Marquez said. Senior Santiago Arguijo paved the way for the Eagles with 28 points, with help from fellow senior Dalton Hobbs who had 19 points, and RJ Marquez who helped out with 15.

The Eagles went on to play the Houston Stafford Trojans at the Regional semi-finals at the Regional tournament in Kingsville, Texas. The boys were off to a slow start, falling behind the Trojans at the end of the first quarter 17-8. Pleasanton began picking up the pace in the second quarter, but, unfortunately, so did Stafford. The Eagles fought hard to build up momentum and started the half time behind the Trojans by 10 points, 34-24. The third quarter brought upon its own set of challenges as the Eagles and Trojans scored back to back to take the lead. Pleasanton got a few good shots up, however, Stafford fought all attempts at letting the Eagles take the lead, completing the period 50-36. The fourth quarter gave the Eagles the chance to catch up and defeat the Trojans, and everyone could tell Pleasanton was determined to bounce back. Sadly, the Eagles’ basketball came to an end on that Friday, with the boys losing by four points, 58-54. Santiago Arguijo led the Eagles with 24 points, Dalton Hobbs had 12 points, Kade Leoffler assisted with 6 points, Juan Lopez and Jayce Krauskopf each had 5 points, and RJ Marquez added 3 more points to that.

For those interested in the basketball finals, UIL recently released a statement speaking about the cancellation of spring sports and any State tournaments that were to happen within the duration of the school year. Hopefully, next year the Eagles will continue on their road to State and making history. Pride Pride!