Both Aubrey and Pilot Point earned straight 1’s, punching a ticket to the next round of competition, with Tioga earning straight 2’s and their marching season coming to a close.

Aubrey Director of Bands Jason Noyes said he was excited to see the work the kids have put in so far rewarded, but there is more work to do.

"This is one step in our contest season," Noyes said. "What a lot of people don't see is the behind the scenes, everything that goes in."

The process begins before the previous school year ends, Noyes said.

"Having everything start to come all together in the end, it's really amazing, just the process," he said. "It's amazing to be where I am and to see that from my vantage point, to see everything start to come together—all of the work ethic and all of the hours, and it just comes together for that eight-minute show."

The Aubrey band will retake the field on Oct. 31 for their area contest.

"We're not done," Noyes said. "... There's going to be a lot of different elements, and we've got to change some stuff and add some more choreography and shape it musically. ... In two weeks, hopefully we're there."

The Aubrey drum majors—senior Margaret Quade, senior Parker Roach and junior Kennedy DeLeon—were thrilled with the progress they have made so far, but they also have an eye on the next round.

Quade said earning straight 1's "shows that we're on track of where we want to be going forward and that all the work we're putting in is starting to pay off."

She also complimented the largest freshman class for Aubrey so far on their work in the show, which Roach echoed.

One of those freshmen is Roach's younger brother.

"It's really nice because this is my one year that I'm going to be able to march with him, and it's really fun seeing him out on the field," she said.

DeLeon spoke of the growth they've seen.

"We've come a really long way, even just from maybe two weeks ago, ... and I just really love to see the people learning to focus ... and create this big picture," she said.

The performance of one of the Aubrey soloists, senior Gavin Solomon, is a highlight from the show for many of the other the band members and community members.

His highlight this year is getting to be a part of the group.

"All the people in band this year—this has been my favorite year so far," he said.

He said he hopes the band can channel the pressure to keep doing well.

Dan Balkema, the director of bands for Pilot Point, was elated for his students as well.

"We started back at the end of July, and all these kids have done this season is just pushed and pushed and pushed," he said. "It's incredible to watch the growth, the camaraderie, the hard work, the dedication just come to life, and it's incredible for these kids."

With the announcement, Balkema and his band’s focus shifted back to preparing for their upcoming Saturday performance.

"We focus on one level at a time, and they have pushed it, they really have," he said.

He spoke, too, with admiration for the way the students come together on the field despite whatever challenges they might be facing outside of marching band.

" All band is, is just a place for them to belong," Balkema said. "It's just their second family, and when life hits, they nine times out of 10 just show up to their second family and just forget about what's going on in their own personal world just to celebrate each other. ... No matter what. They just keep pushing, striving to do the best."

With a mixture of new and seasoned marchers, there are still things to tweak, Balkema said.

"Detail is really what it's about now," he said.

The students are just as excited to move on to the next round.

"It just means the world to see that all the hard work that we put in, all the hot days, all the long nights, have just put us to getting straight 1's at Region," senior Katy Delgado said.

Senior and drum major Giancarlo Aguirre, too, is ready to keep going in the hopes of returning to the state competition.

" Our directors are great," he said. "They work so hard every day to give us the resources that we need for success."

Pilot Point High School Principal Marzia Infante loved seeing the performance.

"Just the level of endurance and then the level of athleticism that they also have to exhibit with their lunges and everything they have to do, that is phenomenal," she said. "Loved it."

Tioga was the first band to perform, and the band did not advance past the first round, despite the efforts of Dustin Nguyen, the middle school and high school band director, and his students.

After a successful visit to the Dragons’ lair in Chico, the 4-3 Tioga Bulldogs return home to face the 5-2 Alvord Bulldogs to decide which team is the district’s top dog.

Alvord opened district play by defeating Olney 59-0 but come into Bulldog Stadium licking its wounds and hungry for a win after being dismantled by the No. 6 Muenster Hornets, 56-7, in Week 8.

“They’re in Year 2 of the scheme that Coach [Matt] Fanning has installed over there, and they’re good at what they do," said Zach Birdwell, Tioga athletic director and head football coach. "They're big, and they’re going to be physical, so, first and foremost, we’re going to have to stop the run. … We have to go out and continue to take our next steps and be efficient and take care of the football.”

Alvord's physical brand of offense is spearheaded by running back duo Cutter Hamilton and Kamper Barnes, who lead the team in rushing, followed by freshman quarterback Max Prcin, who threw for 148 yards and 3 touchdowns in Alvord’s district opener.

Over their last four contests, Alvord’s offense has averaged 45 points per game, and Birdwell emphasized limiting Alvord’s rushing attack will be key for the Bulldogs' defense.

“They run the same couple of schemes, but they’re going to run them out of a lot of different looks, so the first thing we have to do is make sure we are lined up correctly and that we aren’t outnumbered before the snap,” he said. “After that, we need to read out keys and play our style of defense. We want to be the more physical team, and we want to play with a chip on our shoulder and play fast and fearless the entire night.”

On the other side of the ball, Alvord has seen a string of up-and-down performances from its defense, with the unit allowing Collinsville to score 62 points in Week 5, shutting out Olney in Week 7, and then allowing Muenster to strike paydirt eight times in Week 8.

Birdwell emphasized that Tioga still remembers last season’s 27-20 road loss to Alvord and is hoping the momentum from a win carries them through the rest of their district schedule.

“Last year we let them take the district championship from us, so we’re looking to come out on the right side of the scoreboard this Friday, but the message to our guys is focused on finishing, 7-3,” he said. “We checked box one the other night against Chico, so we want to go 3-0 in the next three and see where we sit in the playoff picture.”

Tioga and Alvord are set to kick off their contest at 7 p.m. Friday at Bulldog Stadium in Tioga.

File Photo

The Lady Cats finished first overall out of seven teams, while the Bearcats finished second overall out of five teams.

“We’re in the toughest 3A cross country district in the state, so we knew there were really good teams on both sides and that there would be some really good teams sitting at home, so our first thought was to make sure we went out and competed well, and I’m really proud of how the kids competed at the meet,” said Jeff Price, Pilot Point head cross country coach.

Sophia Garcia was the Lady Cats' top performer, placing third in the varsity girls 3200-meter run with a time of 11:32.06.

“I had a really good morning; the weather was nice and my legs felt good, so it was a really good day to race for me,” she said.

Madison Coronado and Gracie McCracken were the next Lady Cats to cross the finish line, with Coronado finishing fifth and Mc-Cracken placing eighth.

The teams competed on the course at Boyd earlier in the season, and McCracken said the prior experience paid off for them.

“We always run there before district, and I feel like knowing the course and what it's going to be like beforehand helps,” she said. “We also run against a lot of the same schools that are in our district, which helps us get more familiar with them.”

Emmalyn Brocato (16th), Emily Castillo (19th) and Ellasyn Chaney (24th) rounded out the Lady Cats runners and helped lift the Lady Cats past Whitesboro, who placed second at the event.

Blake Warren was the Bearcats’ top performer, finishing fifth in the boys 5,000-meter run with a time of 16:42.78, followed by Humberto Garcia, who placed sixth with a time of 16:49.39.

Humberto credited the team’s success to a meeting they had with Price after a poor performance at the 2026 Lubbock ISD Cross Country Invitational on Oct. 3.

“That horrible loss in Lubbock really motivated the whole team,” he said. “Personally, I was extra motivated after being cooked by Coach Price for what felt like 30 minutes, but I think it really helped all of us."

Anthony Jaime (11th), Colby Lubich (14th), Parker Neal (17th), Jesus Martinez (19th) and Giovanny Rodriguez (29th) closed out the Bearcats runners, and Jaime echoed Humberto’s sentiments, crediting their coach and their trust as a team.

“The biggest things have been learning to trust our coach, do what he tells us, and believe in ourselves, and that belief helped us a lot," he said. “We believed that we would make it out [of district] and look at us now.”

Warren said he was impressed and proud of the underclassmen, Jaime, Lubich, Neal and Martinez, who helped the Bearcats earn second place.

“Obviously, our seniors did a lot in years past, but I think it's cool to see that we have a great group of freshmen, with two of them in our Top 5, and it makes me want to give them advice and do whatever I can to help them get better, which helps the whole team,” he said.

Warren added that the teams plan to be prepared for their return to Lubbock, this time for the regional meet Tuesday.

“That course is known for its hills, so we’re going to focus on getting stronger through those hills at the beginning of that race,” he said.

Pilot Point’s junior varsity teams also competed at the event, with the Lady Cats finishing first overall and the Bearcats placing third overall.

Pilot Point’s varsity teams will compete at the UIL Region I Cross Country Championships on Tuesday at Mae Simmons Park in Lubbock.

With their fourth district win secured, the 4-3 Aubrey Chaparrals head out on the hunt for their fifth against the 5-2 Lake Dallas Falcons on Friday.

The Falcons come into the contest with a two-game winning streak after back-to-back wins over Ranchview, 69-27, in Week 7 and Alvarado, 51-28, in Week 8.

“They have a new coach this year, Coach [Jeremy] Males, and he’s done really good job with this football team,” said Keith Ivy, Aubrey athletic director and head football coach. “… They’re doing a lot of new stuff this year, but they’re playing at a high level on both sides of the ball, and they have some really good players. We’re certainly going to have to play at championship caliber to beat them.”

The Falcons have averaged 52 points per game over the last three weeks, powered by their passing attack spearheaded by quarterback Bode McDaniel, who has thrown for over 1,400 yards and 18 touchdowns through seven games.

McDaniel is supported by receiver Ben Cornist, who has tallied 29 catches for 502 yards and 8 touchdowns, and the Falcons’ top weapon receiver Luke Males and Ryan Young, who have combined for over 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns.

“Their quarterback does a good job of dealing the football around and getting it to their playmakers,” Ivy said. “… Their two best players on both sides of the ball are the new head coach’s son, [Luke], and a son of one of the old coaches, Ryan Young. They like to use them in a lot of different capacities, like running back or wildcat quarterback.”

Ivy added that the Falcons like to give the defenses different looks and said staying keyed on their assignments will be important for the Chaps’ defense.

“They get in a ton of formations and use a lot of motion, so a big area will be for us to keep our eyes disciplined and communicate well,” he said. “… They also like to run trick plays and trick formations, and we have to recognize those. They do all that stuff to get your eyes looking in the wrong place and get you misaligned, so the biggest thing for us will be just getting lined up in the right place.”

With their unblemished district record on the line, Ivy emphasized that the Chaps are prepared to lay it on the line to stay in the driver’s seat at the top of the district standings.

“This game is massive for the district and our program,” he said. “If you were to slip up in this game, we could have a three-way tie for first between us, Decatur and Lake Dallas. I told the kids this morning, ‘We won’t get into the playoff scenarios because it doesn’t matter. What matters is that we have to work a little harder than we have all year and be prepared to go to battle to get this win and win this district outright.’” The Chaparrals and Falcons will kick their contest off at 7p.m. Friday at Falcon Stadium.

The 5-2 Pilot Point Bearcats varsity football team returns home to Massey Stadium after a tough road loss in Week 8 to face the 7-0 Dallas Life Oak Cliff Lions on Friday.

The Lions will step onto the field turf at G.A. Moore Field with an unblemished record, with their most recent wins coming against Whitesboro, 55-48, in Week 7 and Dallas A+ Academy, 44-6, in Week 8.

“They’re super talented, and they’re really explosive and scoring a lot of points,” said Chad Worrell, Pilot Point athletic director and head football coach. “We’ve played them the last two years, and we’re definitely familiar with them, but a lot of those kids were starting as freshmen or sophomores, and they’re all a year older, so we have our work cut out for us to try to hold them. We’re going to score some points because they are going to have some big plays.”

Life Oak Cliff has averaged 60 points per game this season, with quarterback Camren Phillips operating as the head of the Lions’ offense, leading the team in through the air and on the ground with over 2,500 yards of total offense and 41 touchdowns.

The Lions’ razor-sharp offensive attack also features running back Jatavion Smith-Adams and wide receivers Joshua Washington and Dankiea Lander, with the trio accounting for almost 1,400 yards of offense and 20 touchdowns.

“We’re going to have to mix up our coverages and challenge every throw and contain their quarterback,” Worrell said. “If you drop everybody back in coverage, [Phillips] will take off and run. He’s a dualthreat quarterback and a lot of his yards come from scrambles, so we have to work all week on being disciplined and being able to stop him when he tries to escape the pocket.”

Defensively, outside linebacker/defensive end Cameron Beaty is the Lions’ top tackler, with 50 total tackles, while Loyace Grayes leads the secondary with 2 interceptions.

After being held to their lowest offensive output in last week’s loss, Worrell said that this week’s preparation process will be key for the Bearcats' chances of success this week against a Lions’ defense that allowed almost 700 yards of offense and 7 touchdowns to Whitesboro in Week 7.

“We have to get back on track with a great week of practice, know our assignments and execute,” he said.

The Bearcats and Lions are set to square off at 7 p.m. Friday at Massey Stadium in Pilot Point.

The Chaparrals blitzed the Wolves from the opening kickoff en route to 469 yards of total offense and 10 touchdowns in the win.

“We started a little slow and let them score first, [but] that woke us up, and we got on a roll and started playing at a high level,” said Keith Ivy, Aurey athletic director and head football coach. “Our execution was good in all three phases, and I couldn’t be more proud of our kids. Every win is a big win this year, and to go 4-0 now, we’re set up in the driver’s seat with a great opportunity to win another district championship here for Aubrey.”

Ranchview running back Austin Brown got the Wolves in the end zone first with a 57yard rushing touchdown, putting Ranchview up 7-0 in the first quarter.

Aubrey answered with a rushing score of their own when running back Corbin Frazier made a 73-yard house call, tying the game at 7 points apiece.

Frazier struck paydirt again with a 7-yard rushing score, putting Aubrey on top 14-7 at the end of the first quarter.

Chaps quarterback Connor Murphy added to Aubrey’s lead, 21-7, when he connected with wideout Will Storey for a 20-yard touchdown pass to open the second quarter.

The Chaps marched into the end zone three more times uninterrupted with rushing touchdowns from receiver Parker Thurman and two more by Frazier that extended Aubrey’s lead to 42-7.

Ranchview showed signs of life with a 79yard touchdown pass by quarterback Rushil Allada, but Aubrey answered right away when Braxton Osterman returned the ensuing kickoff 83 yards for a touchdown, maintaining the Chaps’ 35-point lead.

Aubrey added a 24-yard field goal kicked by Peyton Campbell, sending the teams into the halftime locker room with the Chaps leading 52-14.

The Chaps added two more scores in the second half with a 44-yard touchdown reception by Thurman and a 2-yard rushing score by Nate Duroseau to seal the 66-14 win for Aubrey.

Frazier led Aubrey’s ground game with 13 carries for 146 yards and four touchdowns, while Murphy led the team through the air with 10 completions for 157 yards and 1 touchdown.

Thurman was the Chaps’ top receiver with 2 catches for 47 yards and 1 touchdown and added 36 yards on the ground and another score.

“We bust our butts in during practice and watch a lot of film, which gave us the headsup on what we were going against tonight, and practice makes perfect,” Thurman said.

Another bright spot during the Chaps’ winning streak has been defensive lineman Cobie Nelson, who has helped anchor Aubrey defensive front.

“We weren’t communicating well early in the season, but in Week 4 against Castleberry I knew we were going to come out as a team and fight, and that’s what we’ve been doing ever since,” he said. “It wouldn’t have been possible with the coaches teaching us different techniques and how to play together as a team.”

The Chaps now sit at the top of their district, but Ivy said the team is prepared for a pivotal matchup with the Lake Dallas Falcons.

“Lake Dallas is the only team that was in our previous district, so we’re somewhat familiar with each other, so it's going to be a big battle at their place, and it could be for the district championship,” he said. “We’re going to have to be on it this week, with great preparation and a great week of practice to be ready to play at a high level.”

Whitesboro’s defense held Pilot Point to their lowest rushing total of the season of 77 yards, while its offense piled up over 300 yards of total offense and five touchdowns, avenging last season’s 45-20 loss to Pilot Point.

“We made too many mistakes,” said Chad Worrell, Pilot Point athletic director and head football coach. “Whitesboro is a good football team, and they came out like they had lost the week before, and their backs were against the wall. … We thought we had a chance when it was 17-14, but we couldn’t get stops when we needed to in the second half.”

Pilot Point received the opening kickoff and started their first drive from their own 17-yard line but were forced to punt a few plays later.

On the ensuing drive, Whitesboro moved the ball to Pilot Point's 13yard line, where kicker Victor Chavez made a 30yard field goal for the first points of the game, putting Whitesboro up 3-0 midway through the first quarter.

Pilot Point's next possession started on its own 26-yard line and lasted 14 plays but stalled at Whitesboro's 22-yard line with a turnover on downs. Whitesboro took advantage of the turnover on downs and drove down the field and scored the contest’s first touchdown on a 1-yard run by running back Scout Regelean, giving Whitesboro a 10-0 lead in the second quarter.

The teams traded punts for the remainder of the second quarter, with Whitesboro holding its 10-0 at the half.

Whitesboro received the second-half kickoff but was forced to punt after a sack and pass deflection by Pilot Point linebacker Braylon Brake and a first-down-saving tackle by defensive back Hastings Fischer.

Pilot Point would start their possession from their own 49-yard line, and the 51-yard drive was capped off by a 1-yard touchdown run by Fischer to cut the Whitesboro lead 10-7 near the end in the third quarter.

Whitesboro needed just 45 seconds to score on their next possession when quarterback Colt Fagan connected with running back Camron Howard on a 74-yard touchdown pass to extend its lead back to 10 points.

Pilot Point answered right back three plays later when Luke Daniel connected with Fischer on a 60-yard pass play that moved the ball to the Whitesboro 5-yard line, and fullback Blayne Dixon punched it in from there, making it a onescore game at 17-14.

Whitesboro's next possession carried the contest into the fourth_ quarter and was capped off by a 15-yard touchdown run by running back Justin Knight, putting Whitesboro up 24-14.

Whitesboro’s defense would stiffen for the remainder of the contest, forcing Pilot Point to punt twice and collecting an interception, while the offense added 10 more points to seal the win 3414.

Daniel led Pilot Point’s passing attack, completing 10 of 24 attempts for 183 yards, while Pilot Point’s leading rusher Josh Chumley was held to 35 yards on 12 carries on the night.

“We have to get better, clean up those mistakes and come out focused,” Worrell said. “I think it has a lot to with the way you prepare during the week, and now we’re in the same boat [Whitesboro] was in last week. They had lost the first district game, and their backs were against the wall and now we have a must-win coming up in terms of getting into the plays in a good spot, so we need to refocus and take care of business.”

Assistant editor Martin Edwards contributed to this report.

The Bulldogs dominated the Dragons in all three phases of the game, piling up over 500 yards of offense and 10 touchdowns while their defense kept Chico out of the end zone for the entirety of the contest.

"It's going to take a few more wins to get over that Muenster game, but this was the first step,” said Zach Birdwell, Tioga athletic director and head football coach. “Our motto the whole week was to refocus and respond. Our refocusing was Monday through Thursday, and the response was on Friday.”

And respond the Bulldogs did, with returner Quesyn Arrington finding a crease in the Dragons' kickoff team for a 60-yard house call on the game’s opening kickoff, putting Tioga up 8-0 after a successful 2-point conversion.

Tioga got the ball back after a three-and-out by Chico’s offense and only needed two plays to score again when quarterback Camden Stephens found Arrington open in the corner of the end zone for a 21-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 14-0.

The Bulldogs’ offense got the ball right back after recovering an onside kick and got into the end zone for the third time on the night with a short rushing touchdown by Stephens, pushing Tioga’s lead to 20-0.

Wideout Jaxson Hurst scored the Bulldogs’ next touchdown when he carried a push pass from Stephens into the end zone from 8 yards out, making the score 28-0 after a successful 2-point conversion.

Chico’s offense gave the ball right back to Tioga with a fumble on the first play of its next drive, and the Bulldogs capitalized on the turnover when Stephens connected with Hurst for a 20-yard touchdown pass, giving Tioga a 36-0 lead.

The Bulldogs continued to pour on the points with touchdown catches from running back Jake David, receiver Kyson Kirkland, Hurst and an interception returned for a score by linebacker Raul Chavez, sealing the 72-0 victory.

Stephens led the Bulldogs through the air, completing 23 of 25 attempts for 361 yards and 6 touchdowns, while Hurst and Arrington operated as his top targets, combining for 217 yards receiving and 5 scores.

Birdwell highlighted the play of multiple position groups.

“We lost one of our guys, Kooper Vandagriff against Muenster, and Anibal Becerra and Raiden Washington stepped up and put on a how from the get-go,” he said. “Calan Sweeney took another step forward in his role, and both of our quarterbacks got in there and rolled. It was great to see both those guys come in and operate at an efficient level, and it was really good to see our backups and junior varsity guys get in and fly around on defense and special teams.”

The win evens Tioga’s district record at 1-1, but Birdwell said the Bulldogs are viewing the remaining contests on their schedule one week at a time.

“Coming into district, our goal was to win the championship, but we no longer control that, so we’ve refocused our goals on winning the next four games,” he said. “If anything else happens, that’d be great, but that’s out of our control, so we’re taking things week by week, and we have a big one this week against Alvord. We had a chance to beat them last year and ultimately win the district championship and had them take that from us at the end, so this is a big game for us this week.”

“We'll be making this a yearly event to continue the tradition, help raise funds for the post here, and make sure we keep everything maintained properly [and] keep the customers happy,” Post 550 Commander Jason Coleman said.

The teams could use the campsites behind the Post 550 building.

The campsites have power and water hookups, plus some electric and nonelectric spots.

“What makes this post unique, too, is that we have this space back here, too, so we can do a lot more events and bring people together,” Finance Officer Mike Waggoner said. “We serve the veterans, but also the community.”

There were six different BBQ categories: Jalapenos, Chili, Chicken, Ribs, Brisket and Dessert.

The judges sat in a separate room and were brought the dishes to taste each team’s food in a blind taste test.

“A few of these people out here for the cook-off, they're not even members up here or regulars with us,” Coleman said. “But they've been coming out for years with any cooking events we've ever done up here through the Sons organization or the ALA.”

Jackie and Glen Mills are no strangers to the scene; they had competed in Post 550 cook-off events multiple times before COVID stopped the competitions.

“They hadn't had [one] in a while, so we decided to come out here and give it a try,” Jackie said.

For their team, coming back gives them a chance to spend quality time with family and catch up with the old competitors that they know as friends.

Patti Dellenbaugh and her family have competed several times.

Last Friday, the family settled in at the campsite, and her husband, Steve, stayed the whole night to keep a watchful eye on the smokers.

“Yesterday was pretty tricky with smokers, with the wind and all, but today, I mean, you can't ask for a better day…” Patti said.

After the judges finished deliberating, the teams gathered to hear the top three finishers in each category and the skunk awards for lastplace finishers.

Regardless of whether the judges called the best or worst dishes, the teams clapped, shouted words of support and made a few lighthearted jokes for everyone whose name was called to accept their award.

“I just enjoy coming out here and hanging out with my friends,” Zebadiah Strickland said.

He was the grand champion prize winner and received a free ballroom rental and campground rental.

After judging, people could buy an empty plate, go around the campsite and fill it with BBQ, and as the sun started to set, more people trickled in for an evening of live music.

“We're doing a lot more social media and communicating [with] the community as well [to] let people know what we're doing ... [and] to just be a part of the camaraderie.”

For more event updates, follow the Vaughn-Walling, American Legion Post 550 on Facebook.

WARRANT – A 33-year-old was arrested by Aubrey police Saturday on a Denton County warrant charge near the intersection of Frontier Parkway and Colt Avenue.

SHOPLIFTING – Two women, 24 and 32, were given citations for shoplifting Saturday by CRPD in the 11700 block of U.S. 380.

ASSAULT – On Saturday, Aubrey police arrested a 29-year-old on a charge of assault causes bodily injury/family violence in the 1800 block of Davisville Drive.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS – A man, 47, was issued a criminal trespass warning Oct. 16 by Cross Roads PD in the 11700 block of U.S. 380.

DAMAGE – Damage to a fence was reported to Pilot Point police Oct. 16 in the 700 block of West Holford Street.

DWI – A 38-year-old was arrested Oct. 16 by Aubrey PD on a charge of driving while intoxicated near the intersection of Main Street and Jefferson Drive.

CRASH – A two-vehicle crash was investigated Oct. 16 by CRPD with no report of injury near the intersection of U.S. 380 and Walmart Drive.

WARRANT – Aubrey PD assisted an outside agency Oct. 16 on a warrant charge in the 2700 block of Ainsworth Road.

SECURITY – A woman reported Oct. 15 to Cross Roads police that an unknown person breached her computer’s security in the 2800 block of Woodland Drive.

THEFT – A man, 46, was given a citation for theft under $100 Oct. 15 by Cross Roads PD in the 11700 block of U.S. 380.

ACCIDENT – A twovehicle accident with no injuries was reported Oct. 15 to CRPD near the intersection of U.S. 380 and Fishtrap Road.

ASSAULT – A 34-year-old was arrested by Aubrey police Oct. 15 on a charge of assault causes bodily injury/family violence in the 1000 block of King Street.

ARREST – A man, 38, was arrested Oct. 15 by Cross Roads PD on a charge of dangerous drugs in the 6500 block of U.S. 380. He was also given a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia.

DWI – A woman, 46, was arrested Oct. 14 on a charge of driving while intoxicated during a Cross Roads police traffic stop investigation in the 26000 block of U.S. 380.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON – Around 7 p.m. Oct. 14, Pilot Point PD investigated a suspicious person call in the 500 block of East Burks Street.

POSSESSION – A CRPD traffic stop Oct. 14 resulted in a man, 19, receiving a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia in the 4500 block of FM 720.

ACCIDENT – Around 6:30 p.m. Oct. 13, Krugerville PD assisted on a traffic accident near the intersection of U.S. 377 and Perkins Road.

CRASH – A two-vehicle crash was reported to Cross Roads police Oct. 13 near the intersection of U.S. 380 and Naylor Road. No injuries were reported.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS – On Oct. 13, PPPD responded to a report of criminal trespass in the 300 block of Prairie Street.

DOG BITE – A teenager reported being bitten by a dog Oct. 12 to Cross Roads PD in the 1000 block of East Oak Shores Drive.

DISTURBANCE – Pilot Point police were dispatched to a disturbance call Oct. 12 in the 100 block of Cole Lane.

-Kim Fleming

The cast and crew will bring the board game and cult classic film to life in a theater-in-the-round setting. "This is my first theater-in-the-round," Director Emily Rome said. "... This is very challenging."

That includes using new terms for blocking as well as finding places for people to tuck in so they are out of sight when they need to be.

"We're learned a lot this show," Rome said. "We'll definitely use it again."

The on-stage talent is a mixture of familiar faces and new, young talent, and the same is true for the tech staff.

There are around 41 people involved.

"We have a lot of new kids this year that are really stepping out of their comfort zone and just wanting to be a part of something," Rome said. "... 'Clue' is special, so it's been a lot of fun."

The challenge of putting on a play in the round also gives the tech members behind the scenes a chance to have their skills shine.

"They're learning so many skills that are going to be valuable to them in the real world, but it's rewarding to me as a teacher just to see it happen," Rome said.

Sophea Castellanos, the freshman who plays Wadsworth, said she is thrilled for her opportunity to play such a crucial role in her first play at Aubrey High School.

"It doesn't matter what grade you are [in], it just matters how much work you put into it and how much you want to be there," she said.

Although it is her first play for Aubrey High School, it is not her first production, with one of her favorite previous roles being the mayor in “Seussical Junior” in the combined production by Owens and McNabb Middle schools in the spring.

The connection the students have is one of Castellanos' favorite aspects of being part of "Clue," she said, mentioning that the kids like to scare each other when they're not on stage.

She's also excited for the theater-in-the-round setting. "It just makes it feel so much more alive," Castellanos said.

Senior Ryleigh Barbaria spoke of her gratitude for being involved with the theater program for the last four years.

Barbaria, who will manage the waitstaff for the production, said the program helped her realize what she wants as a career.

"I'm hoping to work as a tech theater teacher, so I can do this for my whole life, because I love doing this already and it makes me feel so happy to see people's faces light up," she said.

For now, she's using her time on the waitstaff to build life skills in addition to having helped build the set.

"It's great customer service [experience], and it helps me build that for a future job, and it helps me build up my confidence to talk to people," Barbaria said.

Similarly, sophomore tech Harley Aguilar, who is working lights for the show, spoke about the opportunity he has to step out of himself and embrace new skills through theater.

"Everybody's super nice and talkative," he said. "It's like a little community—like a little family."

He said he's excited to have such an important part in setting the scenes for "Clue."

"I'm still learning a bunch of new stuff and it's just quite the experience," he said.

The Ray Roberts Lake State Park Johnson Branch Unit, 100 PW 4153 in Valley View will offer Nature Centered, 8 a.m. Saturday, Nature Center; Sounds of the Night, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30, Kid Fish Pond; and State Park Spook-Tacular, noon-10 p.m. Oct. 31.

The Isle du Bois Unit, 100 PW 4137 in Pilot Point will have Batty Talk, 10 a.m. Saturday, Lost Pines Amphitheater; Ancient Harvest, 10 a.m. Nov. 7; and Watercolor Wander Wonder, 10 a.m. Nov. 14, Nature Center picnic tables.

All events are free with a paid entrance fee into the parks. For more information, call 940-637-2294 or 940-686-2148.

Mahjong at PP library

The Pilot Point Community Library at 324 S. Washington St. will have Adult Craft: Miniature Book Tins, 2 p.m. Friday; Mahjong Open Play (ages 13 and up), 4 p.m. Tuesday; and Boys and Girls Club Lego Robotics (ages 6-12), 4 p.m. Wednesday.

For more information or to register for classes, call 940-686-5004.

GED classes at Aubrey library

The Aubrey Area Library at 226 Countryside Drive will have Tween Club (ages 9-13), 4:30 p.m. Friday; Astrological Charting 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday; Color Analysis Seminar (ages 15 and up), 10:30 a.m. Saturday; Book Nook Club (ages 2-10), 4:30 p.m. Tuesday; GED classes (ages 17 and up), 5:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; Fun Ones Playdate (ages 1-2), 4 p.m. Wednesday; and Who Dunnit Book Club (ages 16 and up), 6 p.m. Thursday.

For more information or to register for classes, call 940-365-9162.

Homecoming parade planned in PP

The Bearcat homecoming parade will be at 9 a.m. Friday followed by a community pep rally at Massey Stadium.

Truck or Treat at Springhill Park

Springhill Food Truck Park will have Truck or Treat from 5-9 p.m. Friday for trickor- treating, face painting, snow cones, bubble show and music to celebrate the ribbon cutting and one-year anniversary of Jay’s Fries N Cones at 558 Springhill Road in Aubrey.

Aubrey ISD Trunk or Treats

The town of Providence Village is partnering with Monaco Elementary PTO for a community Truck or Treat at Monaco Elementary from 6-8 p.m. Friday at 9350 Cape Cod Blvd.

Fuller Elementary PTO will have Trunk or Treat from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday at 10825 Quicksilver Blvd.

DEA National Drug Take Back Days

The Drug Enforcement Administration National Drug Take Back Day will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Aubrey Police Department, 4425 FM 2931 and Cross Roads Police Department, 1401 FM 424 and 8 a.m.-noon Oct. 31 at Providence Village Town Hall Fall Cleanup, 1755 Main St.

Stallion Showcase at Highpoint

Highpoint Performance Horses will host an open house and stallion showcase from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday at 11015 Cole Road. There will be vendors, live music and exotic animals. For more information, call 903-8161428.

Starbright Center to have recital

Starbright Center for the Arts will have a free student recital from 2-3 p.m. Saturday at 110 S. Washington St. The movie “10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse” will be shown at 6 p.m. Oct. 30 and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 1.

For more information or tickets, go to starbrightmpa.com.

Scare on the Square in Downtown PP

Scare on the Square will be held on the Historic Pilot Point Square from 4-7 p.m. Saturday. There will be games and activities as well as a costume contest at 6:30 p.m. A Haunted Tour of the Opera House will be available from 5-9 p.m.

All Class Reunion planned in Pilot Point

An All Class Reunion will be from 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday at the American Legion Post 550, 905 Foundation Drive.

Horses, Hope benefit for Blue Sky

The 13th annual Horses and Hope will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday at 5098 U.S. 377 in Krugerville to benefit Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding and Respite. To sign up or donate, go to givebutter.com/c/13th-annual-horseshope- tth6xv.

Fall Festival at Calvary Baptist

A free community Fall Festival will be from 3-5 p.m. Sunday at Calvary Baptist Church in conjunction with Choice Learning Academy at 125 N. Jefferson St. There will be games, candy, bounce houses, face painting, kids activities, hayrides and food.

Growth, Development in Aubrey

A community information session on Understanding Growth and Development in Aubrey will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday at 226 Countryside Drive. Guest speakers will be Aubrey Mayor Chris Rich and Denton County Commissioner Ryan Williams.

Glow-In-One event reschedules date

The third annual Pilot Point Chamber of Commerce Glow-In-One event has been rescheduled for 8 p.m. Tuesday at Christie’s Golf Ranch, 920 U.S. 377. To purchase tickets, go to pilotpoint.org.

Business Breakfast in Pilot Point

The October PointBank Business Breakfast will be at 8 a.m. Wednesday at 739 E. Liberty St. with guest speaker John Haughton from Haughton Law Group PC. RSVP to pointbank.com/business-breakfast.

Fields of Faith at Massey Stadium

Fields of Faith will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Wednesday at Massey Stadium, 770 S. U.S. 377. There will be games, food and giveaways.

Trunk or Treats on Halloween

The following local events will be held on Halloween.

•Boo at the Barn, 10 a.m.-noon Oct. 31, Aubrey Meadows Equestrian Center, 3555 Sauls Road;

•Trunk or Treat, 4-7 p.m. Oct. 31, Pilot Point Sonic;

•Trunk or Treat, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31, American Legion Post 550, Pilot Point;

•Haunted Harvest, 4:30-9:30 p.m. Oct. 31, Downtown Aubrey;

•Fire Truck and Treat, 6-8 p.m. Oct. 31, Tioga Volunteer Fire Department.

Early voting for general election

The statewide general election day will be Nov. 3 with early voting through Oct. 30 at 310 S. Washington St. For more information, go to votedenton.gov.

City of Pilot Point seeks board members

The city of Pilot Point has vacancies on the Parks and Recreation and Historic Review boards. Applicants can apply at pilotpointtx. gov/FormCenter/Administration- 14/2026-Comprehensive-Board-Application- 92 by Nov. 4.

Beam signing at Aubrey ISD

Aubrey ISD will host a beam signing ceremony for Elementary School No. 5 at 6 p.m. Nov. 4 at 5010 FM 2931.

Women’s ministry pottery painting

Calvary Baptist Church will have a women’s pottery painting class from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 7 at Aime Pottery Studio, 717 E. Liberty St. Participants need to RSVP by Nov. 1 to Savannah Roberts at 972-989-0894.

Bingo, market in Mountain Springs

Bingo will be from 5-7 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Mountain Springs Community Center, 173 Mountain Springs Lane in Valley View. The next community market will be from 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 14.

For more information, go to mountainspringscommunitycenter. com.

Capital Readiness Roundtable in Aubrey

The Aubrey Municipal Development District is hosting a free Capital Readiness Roundtable: Funding for Every Stage will be offered at 6 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Aubrey Community Center, 226 Countryside Drive to help businesses understand the different types of capital available and identify funding pathways that align with each business stage.

To register, call 940-440-9343 ext. 110.

Friends of Vail

annual dinner

The annual Friends of Vail dinner and auction will be at 5:30 p.m. Nov. 11 at the Springs Event Venue in Denton. For reservations, go to friendsofvail.com.

Blood drive, flag ceremony at Post 550

Carter Bloodcare will be having a blood drive from 2-6 p.m. Nov. 12 at Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 Foundation Drive.

Cub Scout Pack 2931 will hold an official flag retirement ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Nov. 14.

A Casino Night fundraiser will be from 7-10 p.m. Nov. 14.

Veterans Day Block Party

The Providence Village Hope Foundation will have the third annual Salute to Veterans: A Veterans Day Block Party from noon-4 p.m. Nov. 14 at Providence Village Town Hall, 1755 Main St.

Surviving the Holidays at Midway Church

Midway Church will have GriefShare Surviving the Holidays from 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at 9540 U.S. 377, Room 105A.

Vendors needed for Christmas on Square

The city of Pilot Point is seeking vendors for Christmas on the Square from 4-8 p.m. Dec. 5. If interested, email Jennifer Neal at jneal@pilotpointtx.gov.

HOPE Food Ministry asks for food donations

The HOPE Food and Clothing Ministry is asking for nonperishable food items for the Thanksgiving distribution in November at 819 Sherman Drive in Aubrey. Donations can also be dropped off at Keller Williams Realty, 806 S. U.S. 377 in Aubrey.

For more information or to donate online, go to hopefood.org.

Local Lovepacs requests donations

Lovepacs Aubrey/Pilot Point is requesting the following donations: ramen, applesauce cups or pouches, oatmeal, Pop-Tarts, microwave popcorn, granola bars, and mac and cheese or pasta cups.

Area drop-off sites include Brookshire Brothers, Martin General Store and Pilot Point Community Center in Pilot Point; The Peanut Gallery in Aubrey; and One Mane Place in Krugerville.

Financial donations can be made at lovepacs. org. If interested in delivering weekly bags on Wednesday mornings, email aubrey@ lovepacs.org, call 214-287-3758 or go to lovepacs.org.

Meals on Wheels needs drivers

Volunteer drivers are needed to deliver Meals on Wheels one day a week Monday-Friday for 2 to 2 1/2 hours from 10:15 a.m.-12:45 p.m. in Aubrey, Krugerville and Pilot Point.

For more information, call Cindy Faris at 972-838-3259.

Around Town is published weekly. Submit information to abardwell@postsignal.com.

Monday morning was the busiest I've ever seen the polling location at the Pilot Point Community Center on the first day of early voting.

If you haven't taken the chance to go vote yet, I would encourage you to do so.

You can go to any of the polling locations for the county where you live.

For some of our readers, that can be a bit confusing because if you're in the areas of Pilot Point that are in Cooke or Grayson counties, you're probably used to casting your ballot in Pilot Point for the local elections.

That isn't possible this time because of the national, state and county elections in this race.

If you're not sure where to go, you can start here: www.votetexas.gov.

On that site, you can check your voter registration information no matter which county you live in.

If you're still needing more info beyond that, votedenton. gov, www. co.grayson. tx.us/page/elec. home or https:// www.co.cooke. tx.us/page/ cooke.elections are the places to check.

We don't tell you who to vote for in this publication, but I will remind you that if you are eligible and registered, you need to make your choices known in the ballot box.

Our ability to vote is one that our country has fought wars to defend, and for some of us, it's a right that took additional effort to secure.

We need to honor the sacrifices it took for us to be able to have a voice in our government.

And, for practical reasons and as the old adage goes, if you don't show up when you could, you don't get to complain when you don't agree with the way you're governed.

It doesn't take long, even with the crowds this time around, to cast your vote.

Make the effort.

It's worth being an active participant in your own life and your community.

Abigail Bardwell is the Editor & Publisher of the Post-Signal, and she serves on both the North and East Texas Press Association and the Texas Press Association boards. She can be reached at abardwell@postsignal.com.

The council approved an ordinance mirroring the city of Aubrey's ordinance to regulate the discharge of firearms and other projectile weapons within the town.

“It does not prevent individuals from protecting themselves or their property from an immediate threat,” Town Manager Brian Roberson said.

A resident recommended the ordinance after raising the concern at a previous council meeting.

The ordinance's main objectives are public safety, reducing noise disturbances and property damage and giving law enforcement more structure to better assist residents, staff said.

The ordinance also states that individuals who use a shotgun must obtain written permission from any neighboring properties where the projectiles would fall or travel.

It also says that pellet guns or BB guns are allowed on private property, only if there is enough backstop to prevent projectiles from going onto another property.

Council approved an amendment in the Code of Ordinances to allow staff to handle minor plat issues with subdivision regulations, instead of bringing it to council.

“If there was anything that needed any sort of new public improvement, such as extension of a public water line or a new road or something along those lines, those are always going to come in front of y'all,” Planning and Community Development Manager Becky Ross said.

Council approved a resolution accepting a request to annex about 6.361 acres.

The land is at “the triangular tract just north of the Cape Cod intersection on Main Street on the west side,” Roberson said.

The property is zoned ag; the new property owners plan to change the use from ag to a different zoning classification, which prompted the annexation process, Robinson said.

The council will schedule a public hearing for November.

The council approved an ordinance adding flood damage prevention regulations.

At the meeting, Roberson also shared updates with Republic Services.

“Since the change, we've seen a dramatic drop in the number of missed pickups,” Roberson said.

The council voted for candidate Mike Browning of the Aubrey City Council in the Texas Municipal League Region 8 Director election.

“To have that kind of representation, I think, would be very beneficial for us,” council member Klayton Rutherford said.

Mayor Linda Inman shared a similar sentiment.

“It's nice to finally have one of these things that we actually have a connection with the candidate, and I know Mike; he's a great guy, so I'm pretty confident in this as well,” she said.

Former and current members, along with guests from neighboring churches, filled the church pews to celebrate the milestone of being the oldest African American church in Pilot Point and Denton County.

“Pilot Point ain’t got enough room to hold what God is about to do here,” guest Pastor Jack A. Crane of the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church said.

The service began with song and voices throughout the room, sung in praise before the service continued.

“Whether this is your first time, or you’ve been here over the decades, we hope that you relax and join in on the worship …” Sister Khadijah Benford said. “We thank you all for traveling on this nice Sunday, and we pray that you all make it home safely, and you are welcome, welcome, welcome.”

Sister Mary Jackson asked visitors and former church members to be recognized.

“We're glad you chose to come out to make this day special of what it is,” Jackson said. “I've been here for a long time; I’ve got 76 years out of that 163.”

She added that the guests are welcome anytime.

Sister Tina Scott shared the rich history of the church, “County Line First Baptist Church began in 1863, when a group of formerly enslaved African Americans led by Louis Whitlow organized the Colored Missionary Baptist Church in the Oak Dale Settlement along Wolf Creek near the Cooke-Denton County line,” Scott read, and continued to share other key milestones.

Later in the service, former members of the church were encouraged to join the County Line First Baptist Church choir for the Homecoming Choir.

A couple of members from the Truevine Missionary Baptist Church choir also joined before the Truevine choir sang a couple of songs.

Host Pastor Rev. James E. Lee III led the church in a warm welcome as he introduced the guest preacher for the service.

“Y'all pray with him and for him that the Lord uses him so that we can be encouraged for another 163 years,” Lee said.

The guest preacher, Rev. Jack A. Crane, gave a message fitting to the theme of "Standing, Staying, and Serving,” from 1 Corinthians 15:58.

“County Line was not started on you and I; it was started on the work of the Lord,” Crane said. “Steadfast. Unmovable. Always abounding in the work of the Lord. Knowing that your labor will not be in vain in the Lord.”

In his message, he talked about the gravity of the sacrifices people have made over 163 years and what it means to be a faithful servant.

The service ended with parting words from Crane and a benediction.

Before that, Lee thanked everyone who attended, his wife, whose birthday it was, and those who showed their support, including Truevine, who came year after year to celebrate the anniversary, and members of St. James Church and Denton Freedom House, along with his congregation, for their continued service throughout the year.

“I'm so thankful to be able to pastor such a passionate congregation that wants to continue to serve God's people,” Lee said. “You make pastoring easy for me.”

The district lost the status because of their financial status in the summer of 2024, but the district administration hopes to regain that designation.

“The issue with that is we have to start over now that we haven't had it for two years,” Superintendent Josh Ballinger said. "... The biggest issue ... is the accreditation ratings won't come out until another two or three months at the minimum."

The district needs to have the official notice that it is re-accredited to qualify as a district of innovation, Ballinger said.

The trustees shared their support for pursuing that status again.

At the close of the meeting, the board voted to appoint Jessica Lindley to fill the final vacancy.

Ballinger also spoke during the meeting about the conservatorship the Texas Education Agency still has in place for Tioga ISD under Dr. Karen Wiesman.

He also mentioned that the state has set the repayment date deadline of June 30, 2028.

"That doesn't necessarily mean that you'll be here until June 30th of 2028, right?" Ballinger asked her.

"It will depend on the progress of the district," Wiesman said.

The board discussed what it would mean to accept school bus safety grant funding to meet the state’s seatbelt requirements.

Ballinger explained accepting such a grant could obligate the district to add seatbelts to its entire fleet, which would still create a financial obligation that the district might not be able to fulfill even with the grant funding in place.

He also added that many school districts would be in a similar position.

He added that, in light of the district’s financial struggles, the board must plan for upgrading the buses by the state’s deadline.

Also at the meeting, Ballinger shared that enrollment is down by one from last month, but overall attendance has improved.

At the start of the board meeting, Lucy Hertel and Charlie Coulter, both in pre-K, were recognized as the Tioga Elementary School students of the month.

Senior Mackenzie Lewter was also recognized as a commended student in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program, and Garra Ballinger was named teacher of the month for going above and beyond for students.

During public comment, Brian Murrell discussed how the district could join a lawsuit to receive compensation for mental health services for harms that social media has on students.

The appointment followed action by the Pilot Point ISD board to place Superintendent Dr. Shannon Fuller on paid administrative leave in connection to a complaint filed by PPISD Police Chief Eric Dortch, who was placed on leave on Oct. 13.

An emergency addendum was added to the agenda for the Monday special meeting for the board to approve the acting superintendent agreement with Kevin Wilson.

“I've got 36 years’ experience in public education,” he said. “For the last 19, I've been superintendent of Howe ISD. I'm happy to be here.”

At the end of the Monday meeting, school board president Renee Polk said, “I'm unable to speak to that because there is an ongoing investigation,” regarding the situation involving Fuller and Dortch.

The Post-Signal has filed an information request for the complaint that has not yet been fulfilled.

Earlier in the evening on Oct. 14 during the regular school board meeting, Fuller said student enrollment is steadily climbing across the district.

“We are currently sitting at 1,837, so we continue to see an increase from the end of last year at 1,754,” she said.

PPISD Special Programs Coordinator Dalia Sandoval shared that the district has 528 emergent bilingual students, accounting for 29% of total enrollment.

She explained that the district has two emergent bilingual programs.

The PK-5 Dual Language One-Way program focuses on bilingualism and biliteracy.

The second is PK-12 ESL Pullout; students receive support to develop English skills aligned with TEKS and ELPS.

She added that they are also offering professional development.

She asked the board for seven waivers and exceptions for teachers who are not certified in bilingual education; the board approved it.

“We are really encouraging our teachers to work on their ESL certification so that they can better serve our kids,” Sandoval said. “And we are offering incentives. … We're offering teachers the possibility of paying for their certification, so a lot of teachers are taking advantage of that opportunity.”

The board approved all action items, including setting a maximum amount of $100,000 for McDaniel Air Conditioning and Heating and a resolution for a retention incentive.

Every Weekday

•11 a.m. Congregate meals, conversation and games. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-8383259. Friday, Oct. 23

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse, 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Senior Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•11 a.m. Early Childhood Storytimes (Ages 0-6). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-365-9162.

•7 p.m. Live music with Timothy Shane Stevens. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Saturday, Oct. 24

•9 a.m. Blue Sky Therapeutic Riding and Respite Purpose Mercantile, 5098 U.S. 377, Krugerville.

•9 a.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•10:30 a.m. The Aubrey Area Museum opens for walkin tours. Tours can also be scheduled by appointment. 209 S. Main St. 940-3431313.

•7 p.m. Karaoke Night. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

Sunday, Oct. 25

•10 a.m. Krugerville Farmers Market. Woodland Park, 5200 U.S. 377. krugerville.org.

•Noon. American Legion Membership meeting.

Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point. 972816-4353. Monday, Oct. 26

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse. 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•5 p.m. Coffee with the Mayor. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7 p.m. Mahjong Monday. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7 p.m. Recovery Care Group. Midway Church, 9540 U.S. 377, Pilot Point.

Tuesday, Oct. 27

•8:30 a.m. Positive Pilot Point meets for breakfast and fellowship. PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty St.

•9:30 a.m. Games. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-8383259.

•10 a.m. Mountain Springs Garden Club. Mountain Springs Community Center, 173 Mountain Springs Lane. 940-902-5457.

•Noon. Lake Ray Roberts Rotary Club. PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty St.

•1:30 p.m. Local Vocals Community Singers. Contact Charlotte Petermeier, 214514-4892.

•6 p.m. Jam Sessions. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6 p.m. Pilot Point Lodge No.

1025 Order of the Eastern Star. Ford Masonic Lodge No.

270 AFAM, 824 U.S. 377.

•6:30 p.m. DivorceCare. Midway Church, 9540 U.S. 377, Pilot Point.

•6:30 p.m. Providence Homeowners Association board.

Providence HOA Clubhouse, 809 Oakcrest Drive, Providence Village. 940-440-2200.

•7 p.m. Poker tournament. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Wednesday, Oct. 28

•8 a.m. Pilot Point PointBank Business Breakfast. Point-Bank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty St.

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse. 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•9 a.m. Mountain Springs Quilters. Mountain Springs Community Center, 173 Mountain Springs Lane. 940736-8013.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•10 a.m. Baby & Toddler Storytime (ages 0-2). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-6865004.

•10:30 a.m. Little Readers Book Club (ages 3-5). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-365-9162.

•10:45 a.m. Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-6865004.

•1 p.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•5 p.m. Aubrey Book Club. Aubrey Area Library, Community Center, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-365-9162.

•6 p.m. Krugerville City Council. Krugerville City Hall, 5097 U.S. 377. 940-365-5833.

•6 p.m. Music Bingo. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6 p.m. Pilot Point Bearcat Booster Club. Pilot Point High School fieldhouse, 1300 N.

Washington St., Pilot Point.

•6 p.m. Queen of Hearts. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

•7 p.m. Karaoke Wednesdays with Pam and Dave. Lowbrows Saloon, 200 S. Washington St.

•7:30 p.m. Pool tournament. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Thursday, Oct. 29

•9 a.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•9:30 a.m. Games. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-8383259.

•10:30 a.m. Little Readers Book Club (ages 3-5). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-365-9162.

•10:30 a.m. Stitch & Sketch (ages 10-adult). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-6865004.

•11 a.m. Tioga Senior Center open for refreshments, games and bingo. 305 N. Porch St.

•5:30 p.m. Pilot Point Elementary School PTO, 501 E. Carol St.

•6 p.m. Halloween Bingo Night. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6 p.m. Music by Ed Allen. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Friday, Oct. 30

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse, 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Senior Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•11 a.m. Early Childhood Storytimes (Ages 0-6). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-365-9162.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Community Calendar is published weekly. To add or change a listing, email abardwell@postsignal.com.

Every Weekday

•11 a.m. Congregate meals, conversation and games. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-838--

3259. Friday, Oct. 16

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse, 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Senior Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•11 a.m. Early Childhood Storytimes (Ages 0-6). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive.

940-365-9162.

•1 p.m. Kids karaoke and open mic. Pilot Point Coffee House,

110 W. Main St.

•7 p.m. Live music with Brian Tracey. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Saturday, Oct. 17

•9 a.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•9 a.m. HOPE Food and Clothing Ministry distribution. 819 Sherman Drive, Aubrey.

•10:30 a.m. The Aubrey Area Museum opens for walk-in tours. Tours can also be scheduled by appointment. 209 S. Main St. 940-343-1313.

•7 p.m. Karaoke Night. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•8:30 p.m. Music by Limestone. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Monday, Oct. 19

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse. 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•6 p.m. Cross Roads Town Council. Town Hall, 3201 U.S.

380, Ste.105. 940-365-9693.

•6 p.m. Pilot Point Historic Review Board. Pilot Point City Hall,

102 E. Main St. 940-686-2165.

•7 p.m. Mahjong Monday. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7 p.m. Recovery Care Group. Midway Church, 9540 U.S. 377, Pilot Point.

•7 p.m. Tioga ISD board. 405 N. Florence, Tioga. 940-437--

2366. Tuesday, Oct. 20

•9:30 a.m. Games. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-838-3259.

•Noon. Lake Ray Roberts Rotary Club. PointBank Community Center, 739 E. Liberty St.

•1:30 p.m. Local Vocals Community Singers. Contact Charlotte Petermeier, 214-514-4892.

•6 p.m. Jam Sessions. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6:30 p.m. DivorceCare. Midway Church, 9540 U.S. 377, Pilot Point.

•7 p.m. Poker tournament. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

•7:30 p.m. Providence Village Town Council. Providence Village Town Hall, 1755 Main St.

940-365-9333.

Wednesday, Oct. 21

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse. 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•9 a.m. Mountain Springs Quilters. Mountain Springs Community Center, 173 Mountain Springs Lane. 940-736-8013.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•10 a.m. Baby & Toddler Storytime (ages 0-2). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-686-5004.

•10:30 a.m. Little Readers Book Club (ages 3-5). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive.

940-365-9162.

•10:45 a.m. Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-686-5004.

•11:30 a.m. Aubrey 380 Area Chamber of Commerce networking luncheon. Oak + Ivy Venue, 11858 FM 428, Aubrey.

940-365-9781. www.aubreycoc. org.

•1 p.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•4:30 p.m. Music and Movement (ages 0-5). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive.

940-365-9162.

•6 p.m. Music Bingo. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6 p.m. Pilot Point Bearcat Booster Club. Pilot Point High School fieldhouse, 1300 N.

Washington St., Pilot Point.

•6 p.m. Queen of Hearts. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

•6:30 p.m. Aubrey ISD board.

415 Tisdell Lane, Aubrey. 940--

668-0060. www.aubreyisd.net.

•6:30 p.m. Tioga FFA/FCCLA Booster Club. Tioga High School, 855 McKnight Road.

•7 p.m. Karaoke Wednesdays with Pam and Dave. Lowbrows Saloon, 200 S. Washington St.

•7:30 p.m. Pool tournament. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Thursday, Oct. 22

•9 a.m. Clifton and Nadene Irick Museum, 201 S. Jefferson St., Pilot Point.

•9:30 a.m. Bingo. Pilot Point Community Center, 310 S. Washington St. 972-838-3259.

•10:30 a.m. Little Readers Book Club (ages 3-5). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive.

940-365-9162.

•10:30 a.m. Stitch & Sketch (ages 10-adult). Pilot Point Community Library, 324 S. Washington St. 940-686-5004.

•11 a.m. Tioga Senior Center open for refreshments, games and bingo. 305 N. Porch St.

•6 p.m. Aubrey City Council. Aubrey Council Chambers, 226 Countryside Drive. 940-440--

9343.

•6 p.m. Bingo Night. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•6:30 p.m. Ford Masonic Lodge No. 270 AFAM, 824 U.S. 377, Pilot Point.

•6:30 p.m. Pilot Point City Council. Pilot Point City Hall, 102 E.

Main St. 940-686-2165.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Friday, Oct. 23

•8:30 a.m. Shepherd’s Storehouse, 1189 U.S. 377, Pilot Point. 940-686-2620.

•10 a.m. Exercise Class. Pilot Point Senior Center, 310 S. Washington St.

•11 a.m. Early Childhood Storytimes (Ages 0-6). Aubrey Area Library, 226 Countryside Drive.

940-365-9162.

•7 p.m. Live music with Timothy Shane Stevens. Pilot Point Coffee House, 110 W. Main St.

•7:30 p.m. Karaoke with Pam and Dave. Vaughn-Walling American Legion Post 550, 905 N. Foundation St., Pilot Point.

Community Calendar is published weekly. To add or change a listing, email abardwell@postsignal.com.

ASSAULT – A juvenile was arrested Sunday by Aubrey police on charges of assault causes bodily injury/ family violence and impeding breath or circulation in the 10000 block of Concord Drive.

UNLAWFUL CARRYING – A man, 25, was arrested Sunday by Cross Roads PD on a charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon in the 6500 block of U.S. 380.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF – Around 9:30 a.m. Saturday, KVPD received a report of criminal mischief involving a damaged vehicle window in the 200 block of Surveyors Road.

WARRANT – Cross Roads police made a traffic stop Saturday resulting in the arrest of a man, 19, on an outside agency warrant in the 26500 block of U.S. 380.

DWI – A 72-year-old was arrested Oct. 9 by Aubrey PD on a charge of driving while intoxicated in the 100 block of Stanley Drive.

ASSAULT – A teenager was arrested Oct. 9 by APD on a charge of assault causes bodily injury/family violence in the 10100 block of Revere Drive.

CITATION – A man, 24, was issued a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia Oct. 9 by Cross Roads police in the 6500 block of U.S.380.

DWI – On Oct. 9, Aubrey PD arrested a 36-yearold on a charge of driving while intoxicated with open container near the intersection of East Sherman Drive and Quail Run.

CRASH – A two-vehicle crash with no report of injury was dispatched Oct. 9 to CRPD near the intersection of U.S. 380 and Fishtrap Road.

WELFARE CONCERN – At 7:42 a.m. Oct. 9, Krugerville police responded to a welfare concern call in the 300 block of Ranch Road.

AGENCY ASSIST – Cross Roads PD assisted an outside agency Oct. 9 in the 3500 block of Hickory Creek Road.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS – Pilot Point police responded to a criminal trespass call Oct. 8 in the 100 block of West Main Street resulting in an arrest.

SHOPLIFTING – A CRPD shoplifting investigation Oct. 8 resulted in a woman, 55, being issued a criminal trespass warning and a citation for theft less than $100 in the 11700 block of U.S. 380.

WELFARE CONCERN – Pilot Point police were dispatched Oct. 8 to a welfare concern call in the 300 block of South Washington Street.

HIT AND RUN – A hit and run crash Oct. 8 was reported to CRPD near the intersection of U.S. 380 and Walmart Drive.

FIREARM – On Oct. 7, Pilot Point PD were dispatched to a call involving a person with a firearm near the intersection of U.S. 377 and Zipper Road.

ASSAULT – Cross Roads police responded to a report of an assault family violence Oct. 7 in the 11700 block of U.S. 377.

DWI – A 54-year-old was arrested Oct. 6 by Aubrey PD on a charge of driving while intoxicated with open container in the 1000 block of Devonshire Drive.

WARRANT – Aubrey police arrested a 23-yearold on a Denton Police Department warrant Oct. 6 in the 700 block of U.S. 377.

ASSAULT – A 50-yearold was arrested Oct. 5 by APD on a charge of assault causes bodily injury to a family member in the 3800 block of Blacksmith Road.

-Kim Fleming

The Chaps traveled to Eagle Stadium and came out fast, taking control of the contest in the first half and holding on through a second-half comeback effort to earn their third district win of the season.

“Our players played their hearts out, and I felt like our coaches did an outstanding job preparing them throughout the week,” said Keith Ivy, Aubrey athletic director and head football coach. “It was the best first half of football we’ve played all year, and to take down the No. 3 team in the state, who a lot of people picked to play in the state championship game, was a huge win for our team and our program, and I couldn’t be more proud of our kids and our coaches.”

Chaps running back Marcus Julu got the scoring started for Aubrey with a 2-yard touchdown run that put the Chaps on top 7-0 in the first quarter.

Aubrey added to its lead when quarterback Connor Murphy connected with wide receiver Will Storey for an 8-yard touchdown reception, making it a two-possession game going into the second quarter.

Murphy called his own number on the Chaps' next end zone visit, racing away from the Eagles’ defense for an 80-yard rushing touchdown, extending Aubrey’s lead to 21-0, which remained the score as the game reached halftime.

Murphy carried the ball into the end zone again, this time from 24 yards out, for the first score of the second half, giving Aubrey a 28-0 lead in the third quarter.

Decatur finally found the end zone when running back Akilyz Rivera got away from Aubrey’s defense for a 26-yard touchdown, making the score 28-7 at the end of the third quarter.

The Eagles would add two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, with a 14-yard touchdown pass and a 22-yard run by Rivera, but the Chaparrals held on to take the win 28-21.

Murphy led the Chaps with 251 yards of total offense and 3 TDs, followed by running back Corbin Frazier, who added 45 yards on 7 carries.

“We were just clicking on offense,” Ivy said. “Our offensive line took control of their front and opened up some big holes for our running backs to run through, and Connor was able to throw it well enough to keep them off balance defensively. … It just felt like we took control of the game from the very first series, and that’s been a point of emphasis for a while, and we finally put it all together.”

Ivy also highlighted the Chaps' defense, which bottled up an Eagles’ offense that came into the matchup averaging over 55 points a game.

“We didn't give Decatur many holes to run through or many good balls to catch,” he said. “… Our guys were just swarming to the ball all night and playing with a lot of confidence and energy. I can’t say enough about the job Coach Bloedel, our defensive coordinator and our defensive coaches did because our overall effort was outstanding.”

With the win, Aubrey now finds itself tied for first place in its district with Alvarado.

“I talked with our guys this morning when we had our scouting report and let them know that we’re going to get everybody’s bet game these last four weeks of district, and we can’t be complacent,” he said. “We have to continue to grind and work hard each and every day. … We’ve still yet to play our best football, and that’s the exciting part. We’re getting better each week, but we’re far from where we’re capable of being by the time we get to the end of district and into the playoffs.”

The Cardinals won last year’s matchup 35-14, but the Bearcats returned the favor this year in convincing fashion, holding Pottsboro to 6 points to earn their fifth win of the season.

“It was a complete team effort,” said Chad Worrell, Pilot Point athletic director and head football coach. "Obviously, our defense stepped up. They played like we knew they were capable of playing all year … and our offense played well. The one negative was the penalties. We had 15 penalties, and I told our kids, ‘A lot of the time you don’t win games with that many penalties,’ but the fact we still won 34-6 says a lot about this team.”

Pottsboro received the opening kickoff but didn’t have the ball long, turning over possession with a fumble five plays later, which was recovered by Pilot Point linebacker Malik Lars, setting the Bearcats’ offense up on the Cardinals' 41-yard line.

The Cardinals’ case of fumbleitis must’ve been contagious because the Bearcats fumbled the ball on the very next snap, giving the back to the Cardinals offense at the Bearcats’ 40-yard line.

On the ensuing drive, Pottsboro drove to Pilot Point’s 13-yard line, but the Bearcats got the ball back when defensive back Collin Grigsby intercepted the ball at the Cardinal's 6-yard line.

This time the Bearcats were able to punch the ball into the end zone in explosive fashion, with a 70-yard rushing touchdown run by running back Josh Chumley, taking a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter after a successful extra point kick by Jarrell Rangel.

The Cardinals answered back on their next drive when quarterback Brayden Sheffield threw a 44-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Levi Hackler, cutting the score to 7-6 after the extra point attempt was blocked.

Those would be Pottsboro’s only points for the night because Pilot Point’s defense kept them out of the end zone for the remainder of the contest.

Meanwhile, Pilot Point’s offense continued to pile on the points, with them capping off their next drive, which lasted 11 plays and ran into the second quarter, with a 1-yard touchdown run by quarterback Luke Daniel.

Daniel then connected with running back Wade Eft for a 2-point conversion, giving the Bearcats a 15-6 lead.

Pilot Point’s opportunistic defense continued to make plays, with Grigsby forcing a fumble from Pottsboro’s punt returner a few plays later.

The Bearcats capitalized right away, with Daniel finding running back Hastings Fischer for a 33-yard touchdown pass, which put the Bearcats up 22-6 at the half.

The two teams traded possessions in the third quarter, with neither finding the end zone, but the Bearcats would add two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, a 44yard touchdown pass to Fischer and a goal line plunge by Chumley, to seal the 34-6 win.

Daniel led Pilot Point’s passing attack, completing 5 passes for 102 yards and 3 total touchdowns, while Chumley led the ground attack with 26 carries for 192 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns.

“We’re not at the spot we want to be, but we’re working well as a team right now,” Daniel said. “We’ve put up a few good performances in back-toback weeks, but we still have a bunch of things we need to work on fundamentally and sharpen up the edges.”

Worrell said the Bearcats are well aware that they hold the keys to the district standings after knocking off last year’s district champion.

“This district is a battle each week,” he said. “The first three weeks especially are a gauntlet for us, and being able to get that first win out of the way and be 1-0 is huge because starting off 0-1 feels like your back is against the wall. It was good to beat a quality program like Pottsboro.”

Assistant Editor Martin Edwards contributed to this report.

The Tioga Bulldogs girls and boys cross-country teams competed at the 2A Region II District 13 Championship Meet hosted by Collinsville High School on Monday, with the varsity Lady Bulldogs placing fifth overall and the Bulldogs varsity team placing fourth overall.

“Our athletes worked hard leading up to that meet, and our district has a lot of really good competition, which surprised us a little bit once everything started, so we weren’t as successful as we hoped, but there’s a bright future ahead of us,” said Halie Martin, Tioga head cross country coach.

Another bright spot for the Bulldogs’ cross-country program on the day was sophomore Jillian Rodriguez, who placed fourth in the varsity girls 2-mile run with a time of 13:31.93, earning a spot at the upcoming regional meet.

Rodriguez said she has high hopes for her second appearance on the regional stage.

“I’m hoping to make it to State and not miss it again, because I missed it by two people,” Rodriguez said. “… I’m excited to keep working hard in preparation for regionals and earn my way to State.”

Noelle Furlong was next runner to cross the finish line for the Lady Bulldogs, placing 19th with a time of 15:36.6.

Timber Johnson placed 27th, Kloie Lange placed 30th and Kinley Hill placed 34th, rounding out the Lady Bulldogs' participants in the event.

Hayden Manzo was the top performer for the Bulldogs, finishing 11th with a time of 18:01.19, followed by Garrison Black, who placed 16th, with a time of 18:27.47.

Knox Dennis (19th), Maddux Roriguez (22nd), Bryan Santoyo-Piña (27th), Morgan Garrison (30th) and Weston Wilson (34th) rounded out the Bulldogs' runners.

The Aubrey Chaparrals girls and boys cross country teams competed at the 4A Region II District 9 Championship Meet hosted at North Lakes Park in Denton on Tuesday, with the varsity Lady Chaps finishing fourth overall and the varsity Chaps placing fifth.

Kaylee Barber was the first Lady Chap to cross the finish line, placing 17th with a time of 14:40.81, followed by Emily Paul, who placed 21st.

Kadence Covey (24th), Vivienne Kane (26th), Ava Walton (33rd) and Hannah Houghtaling (44th) rounded out the Lady Chaps’ varsity runners.

Greyson Faulk was the Chaps’ top performer, finishing 16th with a time of 18:27.21, followed by Max Cohen, who placed 26th with a time of 19:48.13.

Logan Rowell (28th), Suppanat Hanamornsate (37th) and Dillon Harper (42nd) closed out the Chaparrals varsity competitors at the event.

It was a back-and-forth contest that saw the two teams combine for over 1,000 yards of offense and 15 touchdowns, but the Hornets made the plays in the end to escape with the win.

“I’m proud of our kids, proud of their fight and proud of the work they put in to get to this moment,” said Zach Birdwell, Tioga athletic director and head football coach. “We have a program that wants to win the bye week, and our group did that, but we’re also a program that doesn’t believe in moral victories, and at the end of the day, regardless of the score, we came out on the wrong side of it, but we have a 24-hour rule. We’ll get some things fixed and be ready to respond next week because that’s what we do.”

The Bulldogs struck the first blow in the match when quarterback Camden Stephens found receiver Jaxson Hurst open in the middle of the Hornets' defense for a 16yard touchdown pass, giving Tioga an 8-0 lead after a successful 2-point conversion.

After forcing a turnover on downs on Muenster’s ensuing possession, Tioga added to its lead with a 1-yard goal line plunge by running back Jake David, taking a 14-0 lead after a failed 2-point conversion attempt.

The Bulldogs completed their first quarter scoring barrage with a 3-yard touchdown pass from Stephens to David, taking a 22-0 lead after a successful 2-point conversion.

Muenster finally found its footing near the end of the first quarter when Hornets quarterback Carter Heller slipped through Tioga’s defense for a 28-yard touchdown run, making the score 22-6 after a missed extra point attempt.

The Hornets’ defense forced the Bulldogs to punt on their next drive, and their offense took advantage of the possession with a 3-yard touchdown run by running back Maverick Bayer, making it one score game.

Tioga responded with a rushing score of its own when David broke a pair of arm tackles and raced away from the Hornets’ defense for a 59-yard touchdown, sending the teams into the half with Tioga leading 2813.

Muenster got the second- half shootout underway when Heller rumbled through Tioga’s defense for a 17-yard touchdown run, pulling the Hornets with one possession.

Muenster cut Tioga’s lead to 1 point, 28-27, when Heller found wide receiver Jeremiah Franklin open behind Tioga’s secondary for a 39-yard touchdown strike.

The Hornets got a quick turnaround after intercepting a pass on the Bulldogs' next drive that set Muenster’s offense up in Tioga’s 2-yard line, which the Hornets punched in one play later to take the lead 33-28.

The Bulldogs retook the lead with a 39-yard touchdown run of their own from Stephens that put Tioga back on top 34-33, but Muenster only needed one play on its next drive to regain the lead when Heller slipped through Tioga’s defense for a 70-yard touchdown run, putting the Hornets up 40-34, which remained the score as the contest entered the final quarter of play.

The two teams continued trading touchdowns in the fourth quarter, with Heller finding the end zone on two scores for Muenster and Stephens connecting with Hurst and Quesyn Arrington, but the Hornets held on to win by the final score of 53-48.

Stephens led the Bulldogs with 421 yards of total offense and 6 TDs, followed by David, who carried the ball 16 times for 167 and 1 TD, while Hurst led in receiving with 7 catches for 129 yards and 2 TDs.

With the loss, Birdwell said the Bulldogs will need help from other teams in the district if they hope to win the district championship but said the team will focus on themselves in the meantime.

“Regardless of the outcome tonight, we believe we are good enough to beat anybody we step on the field with if we are the best version of ourselves for four quarters, so that’s our focus,” he said. “We’re on a four-week journey now to check these next four games, be 7-3, and, regardless of how the district standings turn out, be ready to rock in the playoffs. We’re a program that sets our standard at a certain level, and we want to accomplish all our goals, but playoff wins are the ultimate goal, and those are still on the table.”

After a big home win over Pottsboro, the 5-1 Pilot Point Bearcats head back on the road in Week 8 to meet 4-2 Whitesboro in the 2026 edition of the Battle of the Bearcats on Friday.

Whitesboro rolls into the matchup looking for their first district win of the season after falling to Dallas Life Oak Cliff Lions, 55-48, in their district opener.

“Whitesboro is a quality and well-coached team,” said Chad Worrell, Pilot Point athletic director and head football coach. “Coach [Cody] Fagan has put together a great staff there, and they’ve built a good program. Those kids play hard, and they have a lot of them back from last year, including his son, [Colt Fagan], who is a three-year starter at quarterback. … It’s a huge challenge, but a fun one going over there to Whitesboro on Friday.”

Despite their loss in Week 7, Whitesboro fields a formidable offense that averages over 400 yards of total offense and 44 points per game through their first six games.

Colt is the straw that stirs the drink in his third season as Whitesboro’s signal caller, accounting for over 1,500 yards of total offense and 21 touchdowns, with only 2 total turnovers in six games.

Wideout Camron Howard, who has 38 catches for 625 yards and 6 touchdowns, operates as Colt’s top target, while running back Justin Knight leads Whitesboro’s ground attack with 540 yards rushing and 6 touchdowns.

“They have a good balance offensively,” Worrell said. “They’re a physical, upfront, running team, and they have running backs that are really capable, but they do a lot of run-pass option plays, and [Colt] does a good job of reading that. This is the second week in a row we’re playing someone with over 1,000 yards passing and 1 interception, which says a lot about how he takes care of the football, and it starts there.”

On the other side of the ball, Whitesboro’s defense has been equally as opportunistic as Pilot Points, racking up 16 sacks and forcing 16 total turnovers this season.

The unit is led by linebacker duo Korbin Ross and Elias Degraffenreed, who have combined for over 100 total tackles, and defensive end Scout Regelean, who leads the team with 5 sacks.

“Defensively, they get after you, and it’s going to be a big challenge for our offense to move the ball consistently," Worrell said.

Energy in Bearcat Stadium may be high when the rivals meet on Friday, but Worrell emphasized that his team is focused on staying grounded and locked in on their season-long goals.

“Whitesboro is a good bunch, and it’s fun when you play games like this, where the kids know each other and the communities have a lot of pride, but at the end of the day, it's just another district game for us,” he said. “We want to 2-0 after Friday night, and we still have a lot of work between now and then to get there.”

The Battle of the Bearcats is set to begin at 7 p.m. Friday at Bearcat Stadium in Whitesboro.

The Dragons enter the contest riding a four-game losing streak, including recent losses to Texas Leadership of Abilene in Week 5, 4614, and Nocona in Week 7, 497.

“They're finding their way, navigating through moving up to Division I and going through a little bit of growing pains through the move, but there have been moments where they have found their groove in games, and they have some skill, and some size,” said Zach Birdwell, Tioga athletic director and head football coach. “They're a team that is putting things together, and when they do, they’re a solid football team.”

Dave Campbell’s Texas Football lists wide receivers Talon Smith and Braylin Borchardt and offensive and defensive linemen Moses McIver and Keegan Webb as players to watch on the Dragon’s offense.

Chico’s offense presents a potential get-right opportunity for Tioga’s defense, with the Dragon’s offensive unit being held to 14 or fewer points in all but one of thier games this season.

Tioga’s defense, led by linebackers Jaxton DeJernett and Raul Chavez, who have combined for 76 tackles, should enter the matchup with the motivation to bring back the physical brand of football the Bulldogs like to play after allowing 53 points in their loss in Week 8.

Prior to Oct. 9th’s showing against Muenster, the Bulldogs’ defense held Callisburg, Tom Bean and Carrollton Prince of Peace High School to a combined total of 36 points.

On the other side of the ball, the Bulldog’s offense, which struggled to open the season, averaging 18 points per game in Weeks 1-3, came alive in Week 4 and has been on a roll since, averaging 51 points per game over the last three games.

A big reason for the change has been the play of quarterback Camden Stephens, who has accounted for over 1,000 yards of total offense and 17 touchdowns in three starts.

Wideouts Jaxson Hurst (32 catches, 593 yards and 9 touchdowns) and Quesyn Arrington (18 catches, 392 yards and 6 touchdowns) are the top weapons outside, while running back Jake David has tallied over 700 yards of total offense and 6 touchdowns from the backfield.

Tioga's multifaceted attack has the opportunity to maintain their momentum against a leaky Chico defense that has allowed 42 points or more to opponents in each of its last three games.

Birdwell said that his message to the team this week focused on executing well from the opening kickoff until the final buzzer sounds.

“Being close is not a standard of ours, and we’re tired of being there, and in order for us to go win those big games, it's going to take four quarters from us,” he said. “… This week we're refocusing our minds on finishing games, and that starts in practice and in the weight room. We have to finish well in everything that we do, so when it comes to Friday nights, we can put four quarters together and close teams out.”

The Bulldogs and Dragons will face off at 7 p.m. Friday at Dragon Stadium in Chico.