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ULTRA TOP SECRET//SCIOPERATION FORETOLDIn 2011, a 5,000-year-old helicopter is found in an Afghanistan cave. Records reveal it won’t be manufactured until 2021.TO PREVIEW GO TOUltratopsecretsci.comNOW AVAILABLE ONNew Book Release!by Elton M. Hudgins, Jr.Outstanding Athlete- Sam AbatiBSy Sally Kalosam Abati, a senior at Ronald Reagan High School, is an accomplished track and field athlete who beganhis journey in the sport in 6th grade and started pole vaulting in 8th grade. When asked about his inspiration, Sam credits his own aspirations, stating that he dreams big and continues to work hard to achieve his goals.Sam’s list of achievements is impressive, including being named a 2024 New Balance Indoor All-American, winning the 2024 A&M Bluebonnet Meet and setting a meet record, breaking the all-city pole vault record with a height of 17’6, holding the school record, being the 2023 6A State Runner-Up and Regional/Area/District Champ, and ranking in the top ten on Indoor and Outdoor Milesplit and Athletic.net national lists.In addition to his athletic pursuits, Sam is involved in Young Life and the National Honor Society, and he trains year-round with Lonestar Pole Vault. He has signed to pole vault at The University of Texas, Austin, where he plans to pursue the Moody School of Communications, known for its top-ranked programs in advertising, public relations, communication studies, leadership, and more.Offering advice to high school students, Sam emphasizes the importance of consistency for success. One of his favorite memories in the sport is the encouragement“ Like A Good Neighbor, State Farm Is There”Serving Stone Oak & Surrounding AreasAuto • Life • Homeowners Health • Renters • Business Se Habla EspañolChris Gann State Farm Insurance(210) 656-1450Mon. - Fri. 9am - 5pm20079 Stone Oak Parkway Suite 1106San Antonio, TX 78258 www.chrisganntheinsuranceman.comand camaraderie he has experienced within the pole vault community, which has made training and competing enjoyable for him.Sam identifies several key characteristics required for success in pole vault, including a committed attitude, mental toughness, physical strength, competitive spirit, and coordination. He believes that his unique abilities, which he attributes to how God wired him, have been a great gift in his pole- vaulting journey.In his personal life, Sam enjoys spending time with his beautiful girlfriend and has a fondness for golfing and fishing.Outstanding Athlete - Lila ChiltonLBy Sally Kalosila Chilton, a senior at Ronald Reagan High School, excels in Varsity Girls Track and Field,specializing in the Discus throw. She began her track journey during her sophomore year and draws inspiration from her dad, mom, and step-mom, whose guidance has been pivotal in her life. Her dad’s work ethic and unwavering support have instilled in her a mindset of perseverance, while her stepmom’s dedication to becoming an eye doctor motivates Lila to work diligently toward her goals. Lila’s mom, who has always accepted and supported her, inspires her to be confident and true to herself.Lila’s accomplishments include induction into the National Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society in her sophomore year. She became a varsity athlete in her junior year, competing in discus. Additionally, Lila has participated in the DECA State competition three times, earning a medal this year.Active in various school activities, Lila is a member of the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, DECA, Student Voice, and Student 2 Student, where she helps new students adjust to the school environment. She also enjoys participating in school events such as Powder Puff Football games and dances.Lila plans to attend Texas Tech University,April 2024BeforeAfterComprehensive Eye CareFREEPediatric Myopia Management Consultations Expires 4/30/24FREE Lumecca &Morpheus8 ConsultationNOW OFFERING - Two great laser products that can help you achieve a variety of skin treatments to improve skin complexion and collagen production. Expires 4/30/24Dr. Chandler R Mann II20079 Stone Oak Pkwy., Suite 1104 San Antonio, TX 78258(830) 205-2420www.stoneoakvisionsource.commajoring in General Business. While she may consider participating in intramural sports, she is uncertain about playing at the college level. She emphasizes the importance of hard work and drive in achieving success, a lesson she learned from her dad. She also advises enjoying the journey and sometimes taking risks, as demonstratedChilton - continued on page 10www.stoneoakhighlights.com 9