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Page 1B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • @heightsleader

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Page 2B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • @heightsleader

LUTHERAN HIGH NORTH

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PROFILE 2013

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by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com The Lutheran High North football program is taking a step back in order to take a larger step forward. The Lions have 19 players -- all but four of whom are freshmen or sophomores. That means they’d essentially be a Junior Varsity team playing a varsity schedule. LHN first-year head coach Nathan Robbins proposed to TAPPS Division II-District 4 that the Lions play a limited schedule this season, which Analysis eliminates all of their disPlaying a limited trict games except for schedule the best possibly one. approach for “We’re doLions this season ing what’s right for the Page 7B kids and what will impact them the best. We want to let them develop,” said Robbins, who is also the school’s athletic director. The decision not to play district games will prevent outcomes like the 81-6 loss to Second Baptist last season. LHN has four games on the schedule and may look to add some Junior Varsity opponents. Robbins expects LHN to become a Class 3A program when district re-alignment is configured next month -- something that could help the Lions become more competitive. The Lions, who finished the season 1-9 under Thump Phillips, will open the season on Saturday, Aug. 31 at Galveston O’Connell. The Lions defeated O’Connell, 40-6, in last season’s opener in Houston. They’ll travel to Beaumont Legacy on Sept. 13 and host Tomball Christian in a Homecoming Game on Oct. 11. Robbins hopes to play one district game, Nov. 1 vs. archrival, Lutheran South. Robbins graduated from South, and his younger brother, Stephen, is the head coach there. “That’s a rivalry we can’t let die,” Robbins said. “We want to play that one.” Robbins said the team’s strength is its work ethic, but only five players on the roster have high school football experience. The team often concludes practice with a tug of war competition. “We want to finish practice with a competition that’s physically demanding,” Robbins said. Senior linebacker Donald Mambo, a soccer player who took up the sport before his junior year, was selected to the Touchdown Club of Houston private school all-preseason team. Mambo will also play offense, either guard or running back, depending on where the team needs him. “He’s giving up personal glory for team glory,” Robbins said. Sophomore Josh Lee played linebacker last season but will be counted upon in the pocket this fall. Defensive back Colby Fullen returns to the Lions’ defensive backfield. Robbins said the Lions will run the Pistol Option offense, so they can “spread the field.” The offensive line, he said, has some size but needs more experience. Defensively, the Lions will suit up in a 3-4 scheme. Joining Robbins on the staff will be veteran coach Dana Gerard, who had been a head football coach at LHN in the past and actually coached against Robbins when he played for South. Coaching newcomers will be Creighton Runnels, who played linebacker at Texas State, and Ryan Schultz, who played at Concordia University of Wisconsin.

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Page 3B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • @heightsleader

REAGAN HIGH

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The Reagan High football team is approaching its favored status with a familiar approach. “A lot of people are (aiming) for us, but we’re still taking an underdog apAnalysis proach,” Bulldogs fifth-year This is the year head coach for Bulldogs to Stephen Dixon said. make their mark. Reagan, Page 7B which returns starters at 17 positions, is widely considered to be the Class 4A-District 21 favorite. The Bulldogs haven’t won a district championship since the 1950s. Reagan finished 7-4 last season, losing to Tomball, 47-14, in the first round of the UIL Class 4A

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Page 4B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

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Spartans building, searching for elusive victory by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com On Sept. 10, 2009, the Scarborough High football team defeated Austin, 18-12. Back then, Analysis Spartans third-year This team has head coach Jayson Mergood chances to ren was an end skid. assistant at Page 7B Westside, and most of the current players were in middle school. The Spartans are looking for their ﬁrst victory since they defeated Austin. “It’s starting to come up,” Merren said. “I’m starting to hear it

SCARBOROUGH SPARTANS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE • Aug. 29 vs. Lee (Dyer), 7 p.m. • Sept. 5 vs. Wharton (Dyer), 7 p.m. • Sept. 13 at Staﬀord, 7:30 p.m.

• Sept. 26 vs. Kashmere (Dyer), 7 p.m. • Oct. 3 at Yates (Barnett), 7 p.m. • Oct. 12 at Sterling (Barnett), 1 p.m.

• Oct. 18 vs. Jones (Dyer), 7 p.m. (Homecoming) • Oct. 26 at Worthing (Butler), 6 p.m. • Nov. 1 vs. Furr (Dyer), 7 p.m. • Nov. 9 at Washington (Delmar), 1 p.m. and turn it into a positive. This could be the ﬁrst group of guys to turn something around.” Scarborough has 26 players on the roster and will look to earn that elusive win when they host

ST. THOMAS HIGH

Class 4A Lee at 7 p.m. Aug. 29 at Dyer Stadium. “We have a halfway decent chance against Lee, but we must play all four quarters,” Merren said. “We had more kids in train-

ing this summer than the past two seasons. Things are starting to turn around.” Sophomore quarterback Titus Randle, a wide receiver last season and an all Class 3A-District 23 pitcher, will take the snaps this fall, with sophomore running backs Stephen Chavez and Byron Randall in the backﬁeld. Seniors Derrick Walpool and Lucutrick Hudson will be two of Randle’s favorite targets in the Spread Offense, along with sophomore Jacoby Watts. Senior Justin Steward, junior Keldrick Suazo and sophomore Corey Simien anchor the lines, and due to numbers, most of the players will see action on both

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Eagles seeking a repeat performance St. Thomas High head football coach Tim Fitzpatrick couldn’t have hoped for a better Analysis debut season. “It was a Offense has preswhirlwind sure to put points last year, and on the board. hopefully, I don’t have a Page 7B sophomore slump,” said the former Rice University defensive lineman. “You always want to improve on what you did the year before. The players have to go out and make plays, and the coaches have to put them in a position to be successful.” The Eagles are projected by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football to repeat as district champions. Last year, Fitzpatrick was promoted from defensive coordinator, replacing his former Rice teammate, Donald Hollas, as head coach. He guided the Eagles to their best season since 1996, with a 10-2 record, a district championship, the program’s first win over crosstown rival, Strake Jesuit, in 16 years and a trip to the TAPPS 5A State Quarterfinals. Last season’s STH team was defense-oriented with senior de-

fensive end Parker White earning Touchdown Club of Houston Private School Defensive Player of the Year honors. White’s now at Division I Miami of Ohio, and a young defensive squad (only three returning starters) will look to gain experience, while nine starters return on offense. “Hopefully, the offense can carry us while the defense is learning how to play,” Fitzpatrick said. “We need to get people in third down situations and let them punt.” Defensive end Joe Lowery is the Eagles’ top returning defender, and senior wide receiver Chris Zook -- who’s played quarterback, running back and defensive back since joining the varsity squad as a freshman -- is likely going to start in the defensive backﬁeld. Zook is considering playing college football at Army and Air Force. Defensive end Campbell Clarkson and defensive back David Jones are expected to make an impact on defense this season. “We’ve got athletic kids on defense,” Fitzpatrick said. “They were just on the freshman or JV roster.” Joining Zook on offense is the strong combination of senior quarterback Michael Reul and senior running back Andre Pradia, a power back.

see Eagles • Page 8B

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ST. THOMAS EAGLES FOOTBALL SCHEDULE • Aug. 30 vs. Rice Consolidated, 7 p.m. • Sept. 7 vs. Strake Jesuit (Tully Stadium), 7 p.m. • Sept. 13 at Santa Fe, 7 p.m. • Sept. 20 at Huﬀman-Hargrave, 7 p.m. • Oct. 4 at Concordia Lutheran, 7 p.m. • Oct. 11 at Beaumont Kelly, 7 p.m. • Oct. 18 vs. St. Pius X, 7 p.m. • Oct. 25 vs. Concordia Lutheran (Homecoming), 7 p.m. • Nov. 1 vs. Beaumont Kelly, 7 p.m. • Nov. 8 at St. Pius X, 7 p.m.

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Page 5B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • @heightsleader

ST. PIUS X HIGH

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Balanced Panthers look to make deep playoﬀ run The All-American quarterback has graduated, and the ESPN cameras have gone elsewhere, but the St. Pius X football team has the same plans for success this fall. “The strength of our team is defense,” Panthers third-year head coach Blake Ware said. “The longer

we keep them Analysis off the field, the better we can be for 48 What’s the similarminutes. It’s ity between SPX not about and Tennessee? touchdowns, Page 7B it’s about first downs.” The Panthers finished 9-3 last season with All-American quar-

terback Kohl Stewart, who signed with the Minnesota Twins (fourth overall draft pick) over a football scholarship to Texas A&M. St. Pius X returns five starters on offense and eight on defense from a team that reached the TAPPS 5A State Quarterfinals. “We’re not a flashy offense that’s going to put up a lot of numbers,” Ware said. “We have a lot more

kids taking ownership. We don’t have the marquee guy everyone is talking about.” Although Dave Campbell’s Texas Football predicted archrival St. Thomas to repeat as district champions, the Panthers (projected to ﬁnish second) had ﬁve players on the Touchdown Club

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we believe Lauren Wilganowski, Class of 2014, displays her athletic prowess as a three-year player on the varsity volleyball team. Off the court, she thrives academically as a member of the National Honor Society. At St. Pius X High School, we believe our students bring a vibrance to our campus. �� has an opportunity to shine. Visit us at our next Take a Look Tuesday, September 24 (Scan below for more info!)

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Page 6B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

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TEAM by TEAM

ANALYSIS

by MICHAEL SUDHALTER

Waltrip: Deeper run needed in playoffs With an experienced defense and a talented running game, Waltrip shouldn’t have any problem making its fifth consecutive trip to the playoffs. Second-year head coach Milton Dailey said the team’s defense is ahead of the offense, and the good news is the toughest regular season game -- the Nov. 2 Homecoming showdown against 4A-21 favorite, Reagan -- isn’t until the ninth game of the season. That should give the Rams plenty of time to gain experience. But the big questions will be how the Rams adapt to the new West Coast Offense and how they play to their level of competition.

Last season, Waltrip nearly defeated Reagan and gave Sharpstown a good game for three quarters, but they were also upset by Wheatley and had to eke out a win over Milby. Consistency will be the key for the Rams, and earning ﬁrst or second place in the district will be important for playoﬀ seeding. The Rams have depth at running back and a great deal of experience with senior fullback Josh Helton and junior wide receiver Ben Lemond. Senior linebacker Kodie Y’Barbo is leading a defense that is capable of recording a few shutouts this fall.

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St. Thomas: Defense has to grow quickly A quick glance at the St. Thomas High roster begs the question, “Chris Zook? He’s still here.” The do-everything senior has been a starter since his freshman year at STH, and he’s one of the players who’s looking to lead the Eagles to a second consecutive district championship. He’ll start on both sides of the ball. STH second-year head coach Tim Fitzpatrick said the experienced oﬀense is ahead of the young defense at this point, and the Eagles’ schedule suits that arrangement well. The top three teams in the district advance to the playoﬀs, which means the

STH defense will be battle tested by the team the postseason rolls around. In the meantime, a big question will be whether the Eagles’ offense can simply outscore opponents while the defense is building experience. They’ll have tough non-district games in Strake Jesuit (Sept. 7) and HuffmanHargrave (Sept. 20) to prepare for a challenging district that includes not only St. Pius X but Beaumont Kelly and Concordia Lutheran. Seniors Michael Reul (quarterback) and Joseph Lowery (defensive end) will engineer the offense and defense, respectively.

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St. Pius X: Star power gone, not high goals Here’s a football history lesson that St. Pius X fans may enjoy: in 1998, the University of Tennessee football team, with a group of talented players, accomplished something it didn’t do under the previous four years with All-American quarterback Peyton Manning in the pocket: win a national championship. The Panthers face a similar situation in their quest for a TAPPS 5A State Championship. They don’t have a superstar that they had in All-American Kohl Stewart, but they have a strong group of quality players, including pre-season Touchdown Club selections Brian Newman (wide receiver), Sam Pierce (oﬀensive line), Chase Fontana (defensive back), Clay Owen (defensive end) and Corinthians Walker (linebacker).

Junior Sean Kilpatrick and sophomore Timmy Ware are competing for the starting quarterback position. St. Pius X will rely on its defense, while the oﬀense gains valuable experience, but luckily, the Panthers have a quartet of brutal non-district games to prepare them for district competition. If Stewart had stayed healthy, the Panthers could have easily made a run to the state championship game. But now, many of his teammates from that 9-3 State Quarterﬁnal squad have that exact goal in mind, and it’s a very attainable one.

Scarborough: This is season to end skid In 2011, Jayson Merren left his position as an assistant at 5A Westside for the challenge of a lifetime. He took over a Scarborough High football program that lacked depth and an offseason program. One of Merren’s talents is being able to find success where others may not see it, and building upon that success. Judging by the offseason dedication of his players and 26 varsity players, Merren is encouraged by the Spartans’ progress. Whether that will translate into a victory on the field is the largest question surrounding Scarborough’s season. The Spartans are facing opponents with much larger squads, and opponents who field multiple sub-varsity teams.

Their best chances for a win, according to Merren, are the season opener on Aug. 30 against Class 4A Lee and the final two 3A-23 games in November, against Furr and Washington, respectively. Sophomore quarterback Titus Randle, who led the Spartans baseball team to the 3A playoffs as a freshman, could be the spark that Scarborough needs. He’ll play behind a talented offensive line, and the defense has some promise, as well. Improving each game and focusing on details will be monumental for the Spartans, who could very well be celebrating their first victory since 2009 this fall.

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Reagan: Stars lining up for district title The Reagan High football team is widely expected to win its first district championship since the 1950s. The Bulldogs’ toughest competition will come on Nov. 2 when they face Waltrip at Delmar-Tusa Stadium. The importance of the game will be amplified by the fact that it will both teams’ Homecoming Game. But the true question for the Bulldogs, who are coming off a 7-4 record and two straight playoff appearances, is whether their Class 4A-District 21 success will translate into a postseason run. At a Houston ISD athletic event last week, Reagan fifth-year head coach Ste-

phen Dixon said he hopes the Bulldogs can be a 4A version of Lamar, last season’s Class 5A state runner-up. The Bulldogs’ season opener, Aug. 30 vs. 5A Westside at Delmar-Tusa Stadium, will go a long way in measuring how far they’ve come. Last season, Reagan lost to the Wolves, 43-0. A trip to the 7-on-7 State Tournament this summer boosted the team’s conﬁdence, and Reagan has strong senior leadership from Tavon Dodd and Trevor O’Reilly.

LHN: Limited schedule good call for Lions Deciding not to play the district schedule is a difficult choice for a team, its coaches and its fans. But the Lutheran High North football program will be much better in the long run because first-year head coach Nathan Robbins made the right call. With just 19 varsity players (including mostly underclassmen and only five with high school football experience), the Lions were not equipped to face powerhouse programs like Northland Christian and Second Baptist. Doing so may have hurt the team’s morale and left them with 11 less players

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Athletes facing extra costs to suit up this year

Spartans • from Page 4B sides of the ball. Defensively, Scarborough will shift from a 3-4 to a 4-2-5. “We lost our starting linebackers Onyx Anderson and Daniel Rios,” Merren said. Anderson signed with Mayville State, an NAIA program in Mayville, North Dakota. Merren said Anderson’s signing has attracted more college scouts to Spartans’ practices. Brett Barrett, the defensive line coach, was promoted to defensive coordinator in the offseason, replacing Shay Collett who resigned last spring to coach track & ﬁeld at Katy Seven Lakes. Jared Rothenberg enters his second season as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. “The staff gets better every year,” Merren said. “The kids have been with me for 2-3 years. They know the system. They’ve improved, and they’re playing other sports, and(buying into) the weighlifting program.” The Spartans only ﬁeld a varsity squad, while many of the other opponents have twice as many varsity players, plus JV and sophomore teams. Scarborough will open district competition against Kashmere at 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at Dyer Stadium. Homecoming is 7 p.m. Oct. 18 vs. Jones at Dyer.

by Michael Sudhalter michael@theleadernews.com The Reagan High football team is charging its players a $50 fee to play this season. Bulldogs ﬁfth-year head coach Stephen Dixon said the growth of the Class 4A program, which now has 120 players, means that the team has needs beyond what Houston ISD’s athletic department can provide. “Right now, Ms. [Marmion] Dambrino is doing everything she can for every program,” Dixon said. Dambrino is HISD’s athletic director. The $50 fee goes toward purchasing extra footballs, equipment and for pre- and post-game

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Reagan • from Page 3B players), but they still have some pretty phenomenal talent,” Dixon said. Dixon said sophomore quarterback Shane Johnson will start against Westside, but junior Eric Duran, a transfer from Spring High, will see playing time as well. The quarterbacks will benefit under the tutelage of new co-offensive coordinator Robin Kirk, who won three TAPPS state championships as the head coach at St. Pius X between 1999 and 2008. Dixon said senior running back/cornerback Tavon Dodd, a Division I prospect, is a vocal team leader. “He motivates everybody,” Dixon said. “He’s a kid that comes from a tough background and wants to strive for the best, not only for himself, but for his teammates. He’s not afraid to get in your face and tell you when you’re not doing right.” Joining Dodd in the offensive backfield will be junior John Coss, a transfer from Fort Bend Christian, and sophomore Fred Cooper, who will also play in the defensive backfield.

Eagles • from Page 4B Sept. 13 and wrap up non-district game against traditional 3A power Huffman-Hargrave on Sept. 20. “We want to play good teams, week-in and week-out,” Fitzpatrick said. St. Thomas will begin the defense of its district title on Oct. 4 against Concordia Lutheran. “Every team that way play in district is going to be better,” Fitzpatrick said. Fitzpatrick said the team’s leadership is more show, than tell. “We’re not a rah-rah bunch,” Fitzpatrick said. “We have our leaders, and they do more leading by example. I’m ﬁne with that. Do as I do is more effective, than do as I say.”

SPX • from Page 5B all-preseason team to the Eagles’ three. The Panthers have a challenging non-district schedule, which begins with road games against Kinkaid (Friday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m.) and Sealy (Sept. 6 at 7:30 p.m.). They’ll return home to face Worthing (Sept. 13, 7 p.m.) and a Homecoming game against La Marque (Sept. 26, 7 p.m.). Both of those teams are projected to win their respective UIL Class 3A districts. Ware said the district, which includes St. Thomas, Concordia Lutheran and Beaumont Kelly will be tough as well. “Every team has gotten better - we’re going to have to be ready week in and week out,” Ware said. Replacing Stewart will be the big question mark for the Panthers. Ware said he’s name a starter but won’t reveal who it is until kickoff on Friday. Junior Sean Kilpatrick, who started in place of Stewart after the All-American suffered an injury in the regular season ﬁnale, competed with sophomore Timmy Ware, Blake’s son. With such a close competition involving his son, Ware said it was a challenge. “You don’t want to be accused of daddy ball, but at the same time,

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playoffs. Dixon said the Bulldogs were inspired by Lamar High’s run to the Class 5A state championship game. “That gives us a lot of us a lot of hope,” Dixon said. Dixon said the Bulldogs’ ﬁrst-ever trip to the State 7-on-7 Tournament last month provided a boost to the team’s skills and conﬁdence. “I can tell with our passing game, 7-on-7 transferred over,” Dixon said. “Our timing is good and guys know the routes.” Reagan opens the season on Aug. 30 against Westside, a 5A team, at Delmar-Tusa Stadium. Last season, the Wolves defeated the Bulldogs, 43-0, in the season opener. “This year, we have better athletes,” Dixon said. “Line-wise, we’re better on both sides of the ball. We didn’t match up with them as well last year with our inexperience on the offensive line.” Reagan opens the 4A-21 district slate with defending district champion, North Forest, at 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at Dyer Stadium. “I know North Forest changed over (a lot of

Sophomore Mark Davis will add an element of speed to the Eagles’ running game. Senior Travis Williamson has moved from linebacker to tight end, a position with depth that will also include Wendall Champion and Chris Winter. Chuck Agu, Will Rose and Kurt Hanson anchor a strong offensive line. The Eagles will open the season with a quartet of UIL opponents, starting with 2A Rice Consolidated at 7 p.m. Aug. 30. On Sept. 7, STH will face 5A Strake Jesuit at Spring Branch ISD’s Tully Stadium. They’ll make a trip to Galveston County to face 4A Santa Fe on

meals for the players. Players have the option of paying the fee throughout the season. If they can’t afford it, they can ﬁnd a sponsor (either an individual or a business) to pay the fee. Scarborough head coach Jayson Merren said there was a similar fee when he was an assistant at Westside, a 5A school, but sees no need for it with the 3A Spartans, who have 26 players in their program. “I make do with what the district gives me and the budget from my principal,” Merren said. Waltrip head coach Milton Dailey said his program has never charged a fee, and he’s “never explored it.”

Senior linebacker Trevor O’Reilly, a Division I prospect on defense, will play some fullback and tight end. Dixon expects big things from senior wide receiver Malcolm LaFleur, “who might be the best wide receiver in the district.”, senior Stephen Dixon Jr. and junior Byron Washington. The offensive line is led by senior Gewhite Stallworth, a 6-foot-8, 340-pound player who’s received an offer from Lamar University, and sophomore Tommy O’Reilly, who’s added 30 pounds of muscle. “Our offensive line is more experience and deﬁnitely looking good,” Dixon said. Last season, the Bulldogs recored a shutout and held opponents below 10 points on two other occasions. Dixon said the defense should be “not just one of the best in the district, but one of the best in the area...several guys that could end up playing college ball one day.” He expects Dodd and Trevor O’Reilly to lead the defense, along with juniors Demitric Hamm, sophomores Robert Revels and Cederic Pickrom and Cooper.

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you have to put the right guy out there,” Ware said. “It’s harder to give (Timmy) the beneﬁt of the doubt, but you want to be fair.” At running back, the Panthers have Micah Massey, a returning all-district player, and Hunter Bradford, who could make an impact this season. Senior Brian Newman, who’s also a standout baseball player, leads the receiving corps, which will include talented underclassmen Jeremy Jones and Sam Vitulli. Senior offensive lineman Sam Pierce, a Rice commit, anchors an offensive line that includes Anthony Ralph, Anthony Spanos and Ryan Webb. Senior outside linebacker Corinthians Walker is the preseason defensive MVP. “He’s a beast,” Ware said. And an experienced secondary includes Chase Fontana, Jalen Smith, D.J. Johnson, Marcus Evans and Darius Law, who has received an offer from Utah. Linebacker Jerry Murillo, a standout baseball player, and defensive end Clay Owen will produce an intimidating pass rush. “This could be the best defensive team we’ve had (in my time at SPX) -- we just have to stay healthy,” Ware said.

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Waltrip High head football coach Milton Dailey has high expectations for the Rams’ rushing attack this season. “I have some solid running backs,” Dailey said. “The offensive coordinator will be able to juggle backs more than adequately.” Senior fullback Josh Helton, along with three running backs -junior Tristan Gentry and sophomores Chucky Graves and Malik Jarman -- will run behind an experienced offensive line. Analysis “The offensive line Making the is awesome,” playoffs shouldn’t said Dailey, be an issue. who enters his second season Page 7B as head coach. “They have experience and size.” Carlos Carreon and Deris Irvin lead the Rams’ offensive line. Question marks remain at the quarterback position where senior Trelon Johnson, a cornerback last season, and sophomore newcomer Nick Hollas, are competing for the starting spot. “Nick has a stronger arm, and Tre is a little more mobile,” said Dailey, who said he’ll name a starter before the season opener on Sept. 5. Junior wide receiver Ben Lemond, last season’s district newcomer of the year, is the team’s top returning receiver. “He has the moves, he has the speed -- he’s the go-to guy,” Dailey said. The Rams finished 5-5 last season, qualifying for their fourth straight playoff appearance on the final day of the regular season. With a Zero Week bye, Waltrip will have a week to perfect its newly installed West Coast Offense. They moved to it from the Spread, but the new balanced offense better suits this team’s strengths. “It’s coming along real well,” Dailey said. “We’re able to complement the pass with the run. We’re not looking for anything deep. We just want to move the ball down the field. The good part is the kids have bought into it. They see what we can do.” The Rams will open the season at 7 p.m. Sept. 5 against Pasadena High at Delmar-Tusa Stadium. The Class 5A Eagles didn’t win a game last season. Nine days later, Waltrip will open 4A-21 competition against Sharpstown at 6 p.m. at DelmarTusa. The defense, which Dailey says is ahead of the offense, will continue to run its 3-4 set. The secondary returns most of its players, including juniors Xavier Smith and Alex Taylor.

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Page 10B • The Leader • August 31, 2013 • www.theleadernews.com

Neighbors: Waltrip alumna takes flight, nonagenarians celebrate by Elizabeth Villareal elizasgarden@sbcglobal.netcom One of our area daughters is accomplishing her goals and is a wonderful example of dedication and determination. Aubrey Thompson Bennett was one of 11 graduates honored in a wing ceremony at the Naval Aviation Museum at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Fla. Her very proud parents, Linda and James Thompson of Forest Pines, had the honor of pinning Aubrey’s wings on her. Aubrey was the only female in the group earning wings that day. She graduated from Waltrip High School in 2007, the U.S. Naval Academy in 2011, and after completing flight training school, recently moved to California to join her new husband, Matthew Bennett, at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Lemoore. She will be learning about and training in a F/A-18F Super Hornet jet as a Naval Flight Officer (the person who sits in the back seat and is in charge of the weapons systems). Matthew is also a Naval Flight Officer and the couple met in their early days of flight school. As a child, Aubrey’s grandparents took her to watch planes land at Hobby Airport and that sparked her fascination with planes. Later, she attended the Wings Over

Houston Air Show at Ellington Field with her mother and Aubrey was mesmerized by the fighter jets and knew that was what she wanted to do. Aubrey said, “Women can do anything these days, as long as they are willing to work hard and set goals for themselves.” When asked if anything in her childhood prepared her for the rigor of and dedication to her schooling and training, Aubrey responded, “Sports. Learning to work with people was invaluable. My parents started my brother and I in sports early and it lasted all the way through college for both of us.” Aubrey tells parents of teens, “Lead by example. Show them that there are many strong, independent and powerful women in the world today who had to work hard and face adversity. They never gave up because they had a good support system and faith in themselves.” Her thoughts and advice for teens following in her footsteps at area high schools: “I wish that all people were shown how many opportunities there are for them. You truly can do anything. When I used to tell people I wanted to fly in fighter jets, they thought it was a child’s dream, something that could never happen. After researching the options, I found the path I needed to take in order to make that happen. It’s never easy, no matter what you choose to do with your

life. Doubting yourself, however, is always the biggest setback.” Although she works very hard, Aubrey shines as she explains she is having great fun accomplishing her goals and looks forward to seeing the world during her life in the military. Meanwhile, she looks forward to cooking for her friends and watching the Houston Texans’ football games. Happy birthday to Nina Lee Hill who celebrated her 93rd birthday (which was Aug. 24) on Aug. 25, with a surprise party thrown by her children and grandchildren at her residence, The Plaza At The Buckingham. The theme was a “Bling Fiesta” and bright-colored tablecloths, tons of balloons, hot pink ﬂowers, multi-colored streamers and ribbons, mini-Pinatas and bling (fake diamonds) strewn along the tables set the festive tone. Daughter Nancy Hill said, “The family enjoys doing something surprising and creative for mom as she always threw big birthday parties for us when we were growing up. All our parties consist of lots of laughter, photos, reminiscing, and general silliness.” You will be interested to know that Nina Lee Lane in Oak Forest was named after Nina Lee Hill. Her husband, Harold Hill, was one of Frank Sharp’s builders and named Nina Lee Lane and Chantilly Lane (her silver pat-

The

Backpacks, homework and pooper scoopers?

Molly

Happy Back to School, readers! I don’t know about you, but I’m looking forward to having a quiet house to myself from the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. again, to catch up on my napping and bird-watching. In fact, all of this “Back to School” hullabaloo has got me thinking about routines and schedules coming back into our lives. With all of this renewed interest in order, are you thinking that your children are ready for the responsibility of pet care? It seems like now might be as good a time as any to introduce a new pet into the family, wouldn’t you agree? “The first thing that you need to think of is if your children are old enough and responsible enough to handle a pet around the house,” said Dr. Mark Stickney, Clinical Associate Professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. “You also need to be aware of the temperament of the new pet that you’re bringing in.” Low maintenance animals, such as hamsters and fish, prove to be great starter pets for children. They require minimal amounts of time and care, introducing the child to the responsibilities of pet ownership without giving them more than they can manage. Another point of contention is allergies. Do you or anyone in your home suffer from allergies that might be made worse by the introduction of a furry friend? If so, maybe it’s a good idea to consider a reptile, fish or even a hypoallergenic breed, such as a poodle, Schnauzer or Yorkie. There is even evidence to support that infants exposed to animals earlier in life are less likely to develop allergies later on. If you or your kids are dead-set on a snake consider what Dr. Stickney has to say on the subject. “With animals like lizards and snakes, their care and feeding requirements can be a bit tricky as far as humidity, temperature etc.,” Stickney said. “These animals also eat other animals for food, which may be upsetting to some children. Depending on their age and maturity, that

might be something beyond a child’s ability to handle.” Gulp. Duly noted. Here’s the good news: According to Dr. Stickney, research has shown numerous health beneﬁts of owning a pet, including lower blood pressure and elevated mood. There is even evidence to support that interaction between pets and children with disabilities, such as Down’s syndrome or autism, is extremely beneﬁcial. “The key is that you need to have a nice, docile pet,” Stickney said. “One that isn’t too active or rough, but that just wants to be loved on and to love right back.” That sounds easy enough!

Diaries

by Molly Sue McGillicutty

Bed, towel and blanket drive

Clean out your linen closet and help some pups! Love Puppy Breath Rescue and Polka Dot Dogs are collecting gently used blankets, towels and bedding for puppies. You can drop oﬀ your donation at Polka Dot Dogs, 2505 Ella Blvd. 77008, during business hours.

Choose me

Piper, a seven-monthold chihuahua/spaniel mix proves that blonde is the new black. A wee little thing who’s large on brains and charm, Piper is sweet, quiet and ready for her new home. Piper was a stray who must have been a lap dog in a past life. Can you help Piper to reclaim her roots? Contact Citizens for Animal Protection at cap4pets.org or visit them at 17555 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas (281) 497-0591.

Nina Lee Hill, who has an Oak Forest street named for her, was toasted at a surprise party for her 93rd birthday. (Submitted photo)

Waltrip alumna Aubrey Thompson Bennett is about to start training as a Naval flight officer after earning her wings recently. (Submitted photo) tern) in honor of his wife. Mrs. Hill is to be the featured speaker at the 7 p.m. Sept. 9 Oak Forest Homeowners’ Association meeting at the Candlelight Park Community Center and will share her memories of the neighborhood in its earliest days. Congratulations to Elinore Underwood who celebrated her 90th birthday on Aug. 26 and was thoroughly surprised to find 90 pink flamingos in her front yard last Friday morning! Friends, neigh-

bors and relatives all chipped in to bring the flock of flamingos to her front door - and what a marvelous way to highlight a special birthday, it was. Mrs. Underwood’s family once lived and worked as missionaries on the southern Caribbean island of Bonaire where flamingos are native. She is a long-time member of Temple Oaks Baptist Church. Submit items for Neighbors through the email address above or via THE LEADER on Facebook.

THE CALENDAR. FISH FRY American Legion Post 560

The American Legion Post 560, 3720 Alba Road, will hold a Fish Fry from noon Sept. 2. The meal is free for members showing cards. All others can do a free will donation. Fish, potatoes, cold slaw and hush puppies will be served.

BUSINESS NETWORKING Near Northwest Management District

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee and State Rep. Sylvester Turner will give legislative updates at the quarterly meeting of this organization at 7:30 a.m. Sept. 5 at Cafe Red Onion, 12440 Northwest Freeway. Reservations due by Aug. 30. Information: www.nearnorthwestdistrict. com.

ENGLISH COUNTRY DANCING Live Oak Friends Meeting House

All types of English country dances are taught and called at this monthly event, where beginners are welcome and no partners are necessary. Next session is at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5. Suggested donation is $5. Information: jnjbloom@gmail.com or http://www.hatds. org/ecd.html.

SCULPTURE EXHIBIT Art Car Museum

REUNIONS

SHRED DAY Garden Oaks Elementary School

Protect yourself from identity theft by bringing those important documents to shred day at Garden Oaks Elementary School, 901 Sue Barnett, from 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 21. Information: 888-747-3399.

STRUT YOUR MUTT Best Friends Animal Society

A leisurely fundraising dog walk followed by a doggie themed festival to help end homeless pets will be from 7 a.m.-noon Sept. 21, at T.C. Jester Park, 4201 W. T.C. Jester Blvd. Information: www.strutyourmutt.org.

5K WALK AND FUN RUN Mays Clinic at MD Anderson

Proceeds from the Aim for the Cure 5K Walk and Fun Run beneﬁt melanoma research at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Registration begins at 6 p.m., followed by the 8 p.m. walk/run Sept. 21. Free skin cancer screenings are available from 6-9 p.m. Information: aimforthecure@mdanderson.org or 713-745-1804.

OAK FOREST WINE EXTRAVAGANZA Oak Forest Homeowners Association

The Art Car Museum, 140 Heights Blvd., presents an all-sculpture exhibition by 49 members of the Texas Sculpture Group from 7-10 p.m. Sept. 7. The opening reception will include refreshments and music from the Neptones.

The Taste of Oak Forest Wine Extravaganza will raise funds toward a private security program in the community. Tickets will be limited to the ﬁrst 200 people and cost $75 per person. The event will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sept. 28. Information: http://tasteofoakforest. eventbee.com/

WALK FOR FOOD ALLERGY Sam Houston Park

YOUNG FRANKENSTEINIVE MUSICAL Standing Room Only Productions

Food Allergy Research and Education Advocacy Group is hosting this family-friendly event Sept. 7, to support people impacted by potentially life-threatening allergies by raising funds for awareness, advocacy, education and research programs. Registration is at 8-9:30 a.m. Information: www.foodallergywalk.org.

Based on the Mel Brooks classic comedy ﬁlm, Young Frankenstein will be presented at Obsidian Art Space, 3522 White Oak Dr., and opens Oct. 3-26. Tickets are $32.50 for general admission, $27.50 for students and seniors, and $25 per person for groups of 8 or more. Information: www.sro-productions.com.

REAGAN CLASS OF ‘58 Sept. 6-7

Activities at the Sheraton Brookhollow Hotel, 3000 North Loop West, include a golf tournament, bridge and a cocktail mixer and dinner/dance. Reservations: John Jansen at johnjansen@mac.com or by mail to John H. Reagan 1958 reunion, 5740 W. Little York, PMB #265, Houston 77091.

WALTRIP CLASS OF ‘78 Sept. 7

Alumni will gather for their 35-year reunion with dinner, dancing to live music and a cash bar at Blanco’s Bar and Grill, 3406 W. Alabama, from 7:30-11:30 p.m. Register and pay online at www.qsl.net/ag5t/waltrip

WALTRIP CLASS OF ‘63 Sept. 20-22

Reunion weekend includes a golf tournament, casual happy hour, tour of the school, seated dinner dance and goodbye breakfast. Information: dlholle@gmail.com or www. waltripalumni.org.

EVERY WEEK OAK FOREST RUNNING CLUB Oak Forest Chill

This free social running club, part of the Oak Forest Homeowners Association, meets at 3542 Oak Forest Drive at 6 p.m. each Tuesday. Brother’s Pizzeria provided post-run food. Information: 281-685-9929.

JOB CORPS MEETING 1919 North Loop West

U.S. Labor Department-funded training in more than 20 trades plus courses to earn a GED or high school diploma and degree are available for ages 16-24. Meetings are held 4-7 p.m. on Mondays in Suite 477. Information: 713-880-2454.

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