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Graduates - continued from page 7Graduate Recognition: Neva HaidenGraduate Recognition: Abbey BenavidezSubmitted By Cassie HaidinN eva Haidin is set to graduate Magna Cum Laude from O’Connor High School and will continueher academic journey at Texas A\&M University in College Station, where she plans to pursue a degree in public health. A standout student-athlete, Neva competed at the varsity level in both water polo and swimming throughout high school, earning multiple first team all-district and academic all-district honors. Her swimming career has been marked by high-level competition, including appearances at district, regional, and state meets. This year alone, she claimed the title of District Champion, earned a Regional medal, and qualified for State in the 50 Free.In addition to her athletic success, Neva has demonstrated academic excellence and strong leadership. She is a proud member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, and has made an impact beyond the classroom by mentoring elementary students, coaching young swimmers duringSubmitted By Penny Benavidezthe summer, and working at The Meadows. Her family beams with pride at all she has accomplished. Congratulations, Neva!earning the distinction of Magna Cum Laude. The daughter of Penny Benavidez, Abbey has excelled both academically and in extracurriculars throughout her high school journey.She is a dedicated member of the National Honor Society and the Science Honor Society, and currently serves as the 2024–2025 Captain of the O’Connor Golduster Dance Team, leading with spirit, grace, and discipline.This fall, Abbey will begin a new chapter at Texas Tech University, where she will major in Pre-Nursing under the College of Health & Human Sciences. Her outstanding academic achievements have earned her the prestigious Presidential Merit Scholarship. Abbey’s future in healthcare looks bright, and her O’Connor community is cheering her on every step of the way.Jamie Petrosky: Young MarineOf The YearJBy Sally Kalosamie Petrosky recently celebrated her 13th birthday and has been a proud resident of Helotes since shewas just nine months old, having moved from Lockhart, Texas. She is an active member of the San Antonio Young Marines, a national nonprofit youth program for boys and girls ages eight through high school graduation. The organization focuses on leadership development, citizenship through community service, self-discipline, and promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle, while also instilling patriotism and honoring veterans. Jamie’s unit was recently recognized as the 2025 Division 4 Unit of the Year.Jamie was recently promoted to the rank of Young Marine Sergeant and has earned the title of Young Marine of the Year for her unit two years in a row. She has gone above and beyond in her efforts, taking a fire prevention class with the Helotes Fire Department to earn her Fire Prevention Ribbon. She also attended a City Council meeting to meet the Mayor of Helotes and received a proclamation for Red Ribbon Week.Her commitment to community service is evident in her volunteer work, such as helping the Guardians of the Children by raking during the most recent Helotes Cornyval Rodeo. She also honors veterans through events like Wreaths Across America and frequently presents color guard with her team at various venues, including Spurs basketball games, Missions baseball games, Scorpions soccer games, VFW events, and military retirement ceremonies.Jamie is also a member of the AlamoAbbey Benavidez, a proud senior at O’Connor High School, is set to graduate with the Class of 2025,Graduate Recognition: Becca BuchhornSBubmitted By Laura Buchhornecca Buchhorn is graduating from Sandra Day O’Connor High School. She also attended Charles KuentzJr. Elementary School and Hector Garcia Middle School. She is a three-year member of the O’Connor Goldusters Varsity Dance Team, a three-year member of the O’Connor Varsity Choir and is in the National Honor Society. Becca is an active volunteer in the youth programs at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church: Middle School Edge, High School Lifeteen, and Chosen Confirmation. She loves spending time with her friends and with her kitty Bevo.Becca will pursue her degree in Psychology at the University of the Incarnate Word, where she was awarded with the Presidential and Mission Scholarships. Becca’s ultimate plan is to be a Child Psychologist.The Very First Automobile?Cugnot Steam Tractor/Carriage Dampfwagen (France) 1769SIubmitted By Terrence I Murphyn 1769 a Frenchman named Nicolas Joseph Cugnot attempted to adapt steam engine technology to a self-propelled, military road vehicle and the result was the invention that paved the way for the first automobiles. Cugnot’s steam-powered, tricycle, war carriage was constructed in Paris for transporting French artillery. The vehicle, despite its setbacks, could tow five tons and reach speeds up to 2-1/2mph.Terrence I. Murphy is the author of “The Horseless Age.” (Amazon Books)Defenders shooting team, where she participates in target shooting with a .22 Long Rifle. In her personal time, she cherishes being with her disabled sister, who she lovingly calls her best friend and sidekick in life.A dedicated and passionate young leader, Jamie is a valuable asset to her community and a shining example of a Helotes citizen working to inspire youth to live healthy and drug-free lives.8 www.heloteshighlights.comJune 2025