February 2011

Contents

6 Vote in February for Residential design Review Committees and Village associations

7 Community election signage Information

8 the Woodlands township Board of Directors election

0 the Woodlands History: Land acquisition, Inspiration and Federal Funding

2 Creating Places for Nature Makes Healthy, Happy People

4 adopt-a-Path Goes extreme! Green up for earth Day 2011

5 We Love Our adopt-a-Path stewards

20 sunshine Vine

2 the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau

February 20

22 the Woodlands Watch

23 summer employment Opportunities

24

29 Watch talk Wednesday: an evening Presentation on social Media

3 the Gorilla Hole MONtHLy

3 Message from the Chairman

6 Calendar of events

8 the Woodlands Village News

RemembeR To VoTe!

February 19, 2011 6

on the Cover seeking signs of spring? Check high among the bare branches of the deciduous treetops where bright yellow flowers of a twining evergreen vine herald spring every February. Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), also known as sunshine vine, creates a sunny vision in this photo by Joseph a. Marcus, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Learn how to recognize and adapt this plant to your yard in the article on page 20.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

board Chambers

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

service Center

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

law enforcement and neighborhood services annex 2202 Timberloch Place, Suite 222, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

The Woodlands Fire department (non-emergency)

9951 Grogan’s Mill road

The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-3444

Parks, Recreation and environmental services

8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3900

Recreation Center

5310 research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Convention & Visitors bureau

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-2447

oTher service providers

The Woodlands Joint Powers agency (Water) 281-367-1267

montgomery County sheriff’s office 281-297-6500 • 936-442-7797

harris County sheriff’s office 713-221-6000

montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472 emergency 9

bruce Tough Chairman of the board

The Woodlands Township

Nowthat February is here, the first of the Woodlands township elections takes place. In February, residents and property owners will again have the opportunity to choose representatives to their Village associations and residential Design review Committees. elected leaders serve one- and two-year terms and become part of the fabric of the Woodlands’ network of communication and leadership. Please see the article on page 6 for more information about the Village association and residential Design review Committee elections, and remember to vote! election Day is saturday, February 19, 2011. the township will hold a separate election in May for the Woodlands township Board of Directors. Information about that election appears on page 8, and more information will be featured in upcoming magazine issues.

From all of us at the township, we hope your year is off to a great start, and we encourage you to become involved in our beautiful community!

Please remember to

Nelda Blair Director Tom Campbell Director

Peggy Hausman Director

Bruce Tough Chairman

Lloyd Matthews Vice Chairman

Ed Robb Treasurer

Claude Hunter Secretary

Don Norrell President and General Manager

M

The Woodlands

C ommuni T y magazine

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Woodlands Township, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to residents of The Woodlands The printing and distribution of The Woodlands Community Magazine are supported entirely by advertising revenue. Please patronize the advertisers whenever possible, and tell them you saw their ad in this magazine and appreciate their support.

Cham P ions sTa FF

President, Publisher James e. Callahan, Jr. account executives

Connie Krell

Charlotte blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Creative director

Lori Short graphic designers

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

T o W nshi P sTa FF director of Community Relations Nick Wolda editor Mary Connell

Copy editors elena Smith

Laura Garvey editorial assistant

Terri Jefferies

advertising inquiries, rate requests and change of address/delivery inquiries may be directed to:

PRINTING & PUBLISHING

6608 FM 1960 W., suite G houston, texas 77069 281-583-7661

www.championsprinting.com

editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859, telephone 281-210-3800. editorial deadlines are the 15th of every month, approximately six weeks in advance of publication. The editors reserve all rights to accept or reject any submissions and reserve all rights to edit for clarity and space. The Woodlands Community Magazine is the official information source of The Woodlands Township. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the activities of the community and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents.

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a past recipient of The Communicator Award of Distinction and the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators.

in FebRuaRy FoR

Residential Design Review Committees and Village Associations

It’s time to vote for your village leaders on the Residential Design Review Committees and Village Associations. the complete list of positions up for election is as follows:

Residential Design Review Committees

up to five residential Design review Committee members to be elected for each village, all serving one-year terms. this includes two committees for villages such as Indian springs and Grogan’s Mill, which are divided into two geographic areas based on Covenant imposition.

Village Associations

grogan’s mill Village association

• seven at-Large area representatives (two-year terms)

Panther Creek Village association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• secretary (two-year term)

• six at-Large area representatives (two-year terms)

Cochran’s Crossing Village association

• 18 at-Large area representatives (one-year terms)

indian springs Village association

• President (two-year term)

• secretary (two-year term)

• Five at-Large area representatives (two-year terms)

alden bridge Village association

• 10 at-Large area representatives (two-year terms)

College Park Village association

• President (two-year term)

• secretary (two-year term)

• Nine at-Large area representatives (one-year terms)

sterling Ridge Village association

• eight at-Large Village Directors (two-year terms)

Creekside Park Village association

• President (two-year term)

• secretary (two-year term)

• events Chair (one-year term)

• six at-Large area representatives (one-year terms)

Communi T y le CT ion

S IGN a G e I NFO r M aTION

February Residential design Review Committee and Village association elections

For the February election of residential Design review Committees and Village associations offices, all of which are non-governmental elections, residents may display one sign promoting each candidate on the ballot on each residential and commercial lot beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the day of the regular election.

In addition, the election signs must be ground-mounted, and not attached in any way to plant material, traffic control devices, light standards

or other existing structures or objects. the yard signs are not to exceed six square feet in area, and not to exceed five feet in total installed height (including the mounting post). signs cannot be placed in public road rights-of-way.

During early voting, two election signs promoting each candidate or

day early voting begins and must be removed within 24 hours following the day early voting ends. In addition, a marker noting 25 feet from the polling site entrance will be made tolimit electioneering in the entry area.

On election Day, signs may be placed at the polling place 24 hours before the day of the election and

on election Day, signs may be placed at the polling place 24 hours before the day of the election and must be removed within 24 hours following the day of the election.

issue on the ballot may be placed at least 25 feet from the building entrance at the early voting polling site during the 24-hour period preceding the

must be removed within 24 hours following the day of the election. signs are not permitted in the public road rights-of-way.

continued on page 8

VoTe!

Get your #2 pencils ready and gather your information— the Woodlands village elections are here!

Voting for all residents and property owners on all polling dates for the February residential Design review Committee and Village association elections will be held at the Woodlands township service Center located at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Convenience Voting: Monday, February 14, 2011, through Friday, February 18, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

election day: saturday, February 19, 2011, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More information regarding elections can be found on the Woodlands township Web site, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or by calling 281-210-3800.

election Results: the residential Design review Committee and Village association election results will be posted in the kiosk in front of the Woodlands township service Center after 10 p.m. on election night. to view the election results online after verification, go to www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

CommuniTy eleCTion signage inFoRmaTion continued from page 7

Generic voting signs displayed during the convenience voting period and on election Day are signs installed by the Woodlands township. these signs do not advocate or support a particular candidate or issue.

governmental elections

For the upcoming governmental elections conducted by the county, state, or federal government or by any political subdivision of the state (including the May 2011 election of township Directors), residents may display one political sign promoting each candidate or issue on the ballot on each residential and commercial lot beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the day of the regular or runoff election.

In addition, the political signs must be ground-mounted, and not attached in any way to plant material, traffic control devices, light standards, trailers, vehicles or other existing structures or objects. Political signs can not exceed four feet high by six feet wide, and not exceed five feet in total installed height (including the post, if any). signs must not contain any offensive language or graphics, or display anything deemed offensive, must not be lighted, accompanied by music or sound, balloons or streamers. signs must not be portable or distracting to motorists. a two-sided sign is considered one sign. signs cannot be placed in public road rights-of-way.

For complete information regarding the sign standards for elections in the Woodlands, please contact the Covenant administration Department of the Woodlands township at 281-210-3973.

Positions available

Three at-large positions on The Woodlands Township board of Directors will be filled in the May 2011 election, designated as positions 5, 6, 7.

Candidates may file for one of the designated positions between February 12, 2011, up to close of business at 5 p.m. on March 14, 2011.

Last day for declaration of a write-in candidate is 5 p.m. on March 21, 2011. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet.

The Woodlands, The InsIde sTory of CreaTI ng a

asGeorge Mitchell’s success mounted from his oil and gas ventures, he dipped the company’s toe into land development in the early 1960s as a way to diversify his business strategy. Local brokers informed Mitchell of a possible land deal involving 50,000 acres of timberland owned by the Grogan Cochran Lumber Company in Conroe.

It took a year and a half of tough negotiating, but Mitchell bought the

Land Acquisition, Inspiration And Federal Funding

By roger Galatas

property in 1963 for $125 per acre. Mitchell figured he could pay for the land purchase from oil and gas mineral leases, surface gravel mining and timber cutting. He bought the 50,000 acres with borrowed funds and paid off the land note over time with income from those assets. approximately 2,800 acres of that purchase became part of the ultimate 28,000 acres that now make up the Woodlands. However, when he purchased the Grogan Cochran land he

Kamrath Rendering and Projected development

did so because it was a good buy. He hadn’t even thought about developing the Woodlands, according to Mitchell’s own recollection.

It was about that same time that national events and his involvement in the young Presidents Organization (yPO) caused Mitchell’s idea about land, housing and the way people lived to begin to change. yPO-sponsored field trips to Bedford-stuyvesant in New york City and Watts in Los angeles

These two land use plans show the evolution of the process that led to the current general plan for The Woodlands. The initial plan, A Development Study, was conceived by Karl Kamrath in 1966 to help George Mitchell understand how much land would be required for a new town. A team that included architects, urban planners, and an environmental consultant, developed the Projected Development Plan. It addressed and implemented conditions set by the HUD agreement covering the original 17,455 acres of the project.

“impressed him with the fact that all of our cities were in trouble.”

“Detroit, Washington, Cleveland - were all being destroyed. the concentration of the disadvantaged and the flight to the suburbs by the middle class were destroying our cities. How do you turn it around? I can’t turn it around, but I can set an example. Let the Woodlands be designed to show the country a better way to urbanize america,” said Mitchell in an interview for our book.

He wanted the Woodlands to be a solution for Houston’s regional growth and not part of its problem. For that reason he chose to include the majority of its development land in Houston’s etJ by contractual agreement with the City so the parties would have to work together for mutual benefit of the region.

as Mitchell’s vision for a better way to develop a major community came into focus, he retained a noted Houston architect named Karl Kamrath to develop a plan for his “satellite city.” Within a few months, a plan was developed for a 20,000-acre project that envisioned a resident population of 50,000 people. It was a simple concept with no market study or financial model; it was traditional Houston planning with a central shopping mall surrounded by homes and light industrial zones on the fringes. While not adopted for the new development, the drawings did help Mitchell understand just how much land would be needed for the new town and how its location could be positioned close to I-45 in south Montgomery County, texas.

With this enhanced understanding, Mitchell forged ahead with the challenge of acquiring the required land to add to the 2,800 acres originally acquired from the Grogan Cochran purchase. at its opening in 1974, the Woodlands included 17,455 acres acquired through some 300 individual purchase transactions. Land acquisitions continued over the next 35 years as the community expanded to include some 28,000 acres today.

Timber Train

as additional land was acquired, Mitchell and his initial team explored ways to finance the new community. this led them to an emerging federal program, title VII of the Housing and urban Development act of 1970, designed to assist development of “new towns” that would meet certain social, economic and environmental objectives. the act allowed the government to offer loan guarantees up to $50 million to help finance qualified projects, and Mitchell was intrigued.

However, a HuD official told Mitchell that his development plan as submitted was simply not going to pass muster. It needed a much greater degree of sophistication. HuD wanted more specifics about land planning, finances and social goals from a planning team with nationally recognized credentials. In short, it was time for Mitchell to start

Roger galatas

spending some serious planning money if he wanted that government loan guarantee…and he did.

Mitchell met the challenge. He expanded his development team to include notable urban planners, architects, engineers, environmentalists, financial disciplines, lawyers and marketing experts with national experience in community development. the Woodlands plan and HuD application for the maximum $50 million loan guarantee was revised and presented at a meeting with HuD on March 31, 1971. It was approved the following year providing the initial funding* for development of this great hometown, which held its grand opening on October 19, 1974.

*The HUD loan guarantee provided an important source of financing and was completed and terminated in 1982.

Roger Galatas is the former president of The Woodlands Corporation and the author, with Jim Barlow, of the popular book, The Woodlands, The Inside Story of Creating a better Hometown. For more information, please visit www.rgiwoodlands.com.

A timber train carried logs to a mill owned by the Grogan Cochran Lumber Company, circa 1925.

Photo courtesy of Jim and Wanda Cochran

MAKES HEALTHY, HAPPY PEOPLE

By Lucinda Valdes

TheAttracted by nectar plants and feeders, hummingbirds return predictably every year to favorite feeding spots.

allure of nature attracts many to The Woodlands. Nestled on the western edge of the Piney Woods, our community is home to an amazing number of wildlife species. Hummingbirds, butterflies, songbirds, amphibians and small mammals bring a sense of wonder and delight to all ages.

“Habitat communities are healthier and happier communities,” said Marya Fowler, senior education outreach manager for National Wildlife Federation (NWF). People are healthier when they spend time outdoors gardening and watching wildlife, she noted. “And, they are just happier from that feeling of joy that moments in nature bring.”

Setting the stage for the rest of the community, the Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services Facility is the first public property in the Township to become a Certified Wildlife Habitat.

The Woodlands is a prime candidate for national recognition from NWF as a Community Wildlife Habitat. According to Ms. Fowler, the coveted designation honors a “community’s commitment to creating a place where people, wildlife and plants coexist and thrive.”

On Thursday, February 17, 2011, at 7:30 p.m., Ms. Fowler draws on her background in education, landscape design and restoration to present a primer for using native plants to enhance landscapes for the enjoyment of people and wildlife. By providing food,

Photo by Howard Cheek

water, shelter and a place to raise young, wildlife habitats create a place for nature in backyards, school grounds and public properties. Marya will share her passion for nature along with design tips for creating wildlife habitats.

Hosted at McCullough Jr. High school, 3800 s. Panther Creek Drive, the free program is organized by the Woodlands township and sponsored by the Woodlands G.r.e.e.N., Waste Management, the Pineywoods Nursery and Hilton Garden Inn.

For more information, please contact the Woodlands township environmental services at 281-210-3900 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Photos by Dawn Pando

Water, a vital component of a wildlife habitat, brings a chickadee into view.

A reclusive woodland gem, this young indigo bunting was sighted from the window of an office building.

marya Fowler

Photo by Jon Krenytzky

Let’s keep our pathways clean!

Green up for earth Day 2011

When: saturday, april 16, 2011

What: Community-wide clean-up targeting waterways, parks, pathways, school grounds, neighborhoods

Who: Individuals, families, school groups, scouts, neighborhoods, businesses, clubs and service organizations

schedule: • 8 to 9 a.m.: Check-in at area parks

• 9 to 11 a.m.: Green-up assigned area

• 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Celebrate at rob Fleming Park with food, fun and entertainment

how: pre-register at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Pre-registrants will receive a t-shirt and be eligible for door prizes!

info: Call the Woodlands township environmental services at 281-210-3900

Clean…green…safe! Green up for earth Day is a How Green is Your Village? event sponsored by the Woodlands township, the Woodlands G.r.e.e.N. Waste Management the Woodlands Development Company.

Photo by J. easton

We LOVE our adopt-a-Path stewards! adopt-a-path Stewards active on the Pathways

augusT-noVembeR 200

332 volunteer hours

2,295 gallons of trash = 1,391 lbs (according to Keep america beautiful, one 33-gallon bag is estimated to weigh 20 pounds)

alden bRidge

bredehoft Family

Cub Scout Pack 772 Dens 1, 5 and 18

reeder Family

Shaffer Family

Steve and Judy easton

CoChRan’s CRossing

boy Scout Troop 772

robert and Nancy rodd

roger Howard

The Woodlands G.r e e.N.

Thomas Family

Woodlands Landscaping

gRogan’s mill

american Legion Post 305 Gallo Family

indian sPRings

Dietrich-O’Donoghue Clan Woodlands India association

PanTheR CReeK

College Park reveillers and CC

Cub Scout Pack 336

Mothers of The Woodlands

National Charity round Table rowing Club of The Woodlands Juniors

sTeRling Ridge

burton Family

Charles and Donna Moseley

Cub Scout Pack 223

Tara Kirby

Texas Laurels NCL

Tuesday, February 

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, February 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, February 3

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, February 4

Gorilla Hole

The recreation Center 7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

saturday, February 5

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Vegetable Gardening

Free Vegetable Gardening Class

Tom Leroy, Texas agrilife extension 8203 Millennium Forest Drive 9 a.m. to noon

To register, call 281-210-3900.

Tuesday, February 8

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3887

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Thursday, February 0

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7:30 p.m. 281-210-5808

saturday, February 2

FREE Compost Class 8203 Millennium Forest Drive 11 a.m. to noon

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Daddy - Daughter Dinner Dance

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center

6:30 to 9:30 p.m. advance registration required. For more information, please call 281-210-3950.

monday, February 4

Photo by Dawn Pando

Enticed by native flowering plants, butterflies add life to the landscape. Photo by Dawn Pando

monday, February 4-8

Community Elections Convenience Voting

The Woodlands Township Service Center

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, February 5-6

In the Spotlight Teen Talent Show 2011 Auditions

The Woodlands recreation Center 5310 research Forest Drive

For more information, call 281-210-3950 or visit www.thewoodlandstowship-tx.gov

Wednesday, February 6

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Law Enforcement Advisory Council Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, February 7

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Workshop

The Woodlands Township board Chambers

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600

7:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture

Community Wildlife Habitats

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

McCullough Junior High School

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3900

Friday, February 8

Gorilla Hole

The recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders.

There is a $7 admittance fee.

saturday, February 9

Election Day in The Woodlands

The Woodlands Township Service Center

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3800

monday, February 2

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6:30 p.m.

281-210-5808

College Park Village Association Meeting

emergency Training Center

7:30 p.m. 281-210-3889

Tuesday, February 22

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

7:30 p.m. 281-210-3887

Wednesday, February 23

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township Service Center

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6 p.m. 281-210-3800

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

Noon to 1 p.m. 281-210-3800

saturday, February 26

upcoming events:

Wednesday, march 2

Watch Talk Wednesdays: An Evening Presentation Social Media

St. anthony of Padua Catholic Church

7801 bay branch Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, march 4

Gorilla Hole

The recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

Touch-a-Truck

The rob Fleming aquatic Center 6535 Creekside Forest Dr. 9 to 11 a.m.

For more information, please call 281-210-3950

monday, February 28

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

Mitchell Library, 8125 ashlane Way

7 p.m.

281-210-3888

saturday, march 5

FREE Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive 11 a.m. to noon

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

In the Spotlight Teen Talent Show

The Lodge at rob Fleming Park 6:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

*Please visit the calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for listings, or call the office at 281-210-3800.

Garbage collection

No changes in garbage service this month. Watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Alden Bridge

It’s time to think about the next school year already! If you or someone you know will begin higher education in 2011, please consider applying for one of our scholarships. all graduating high school students residing in alden Bridge are eligible. see your high school counselor for details and applications, and don’t hesitate to compete for one of these! scholarship forms also can be obtained by e-mailing abinfo@comcast.net, downloading from www.aldenbridge. org/scholarships.htm, or by writing to alden Bridge Village association, attn: scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 7343, the Woodlands, tX 77387-7343.

your voice counts in our village association elections! alden Bridge will elect 10 at-large area representatives for two-year terms, plus five residential Design review Committee members for one-year terms. Convenience voting is available February 14-18, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. election Day is saturday, February 19, 2011, and polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., also at the township service Center.

this months residents’ meeting will be held on tuesday, February 9, 2011, at 7 p.m. at the township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please check our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org, for speaker announcement. all alden Bridge residents are encouraged to attend!

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

community elections:

While you’ll find complete details elsewhere in this edition, here’s a quick “heads up” for Cochran’s Crossing residents headed for the polls. recent Cochran’s Crossing Village association bylaw changes affect the election in our village. as you’ll note on the Cochran’s Crossing Village association ballot, all candidates are seeking area representative positions. the offices of president, vice president, secretary and treasurer are no longer elective. this, of course, explains why they’re no longer on the ballot. Officers will be appointed by and from within the body of elected area representatives. so there you have it. Let’s show our community spirit and pride with a big Cochran’s Crossing voter turnout. please vote!

Submitted by Bill Mara

Creekside Park

elections: the residents of the Village of Creekside Park will elect a president (two- year term), secretary (twoyear term), events chair (one-year term), six area representatives (one-year terms) and five residential Design review Committee members this month. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for convenience voting and election date information.

chili cook-off: the Woodlands Creekside Park Village association presented its second annual Chili Cook-Off and Winter Festival on sunday, December 5, 2010, at

the Lodge at rob Fleming Park. It was a tremendous success with more than 1,000 attendees. the event included seven teams fiercely competing in a chili cook-off, a giant snow sledding hill, face painting, kids crafts, free food and new this year, a Holiday Market. Many thanks to all of the sponsors, participants, judges, vendors, volunteers and attendees that took part in the event. Chris Nunes, director of township parks and recreation, Peggy Krysiak, village liaison and Brian McNamara, executive chef of Jaspers, were the honored guest judges. after careful deliberation, “Voodoo Chili” co-led by ryan Comeaux and ryan O’shaughnessy, was declared the winner. the People’s Choice vote went to “Fire in the Hole” led by sally epton.

participate: Monthly association meetings are held the first tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the creekside YMca lodge making it more convenient for residents to attend and participate. Visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com for all of the latest news and event information.

Submitted by Nancy Decker Lent

Grogan’s Mill

Farmer’s Market will hold a preview on saturday, February 19, 2011

We thank our loyal customers who have supported us over the past three years and those who just recently discovered the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market.

For the first time we will conduct a joint venture with the annual spring Home & Garden show taking place

Ne WS F r OM TH e V illages OF T he W oodlands

on saturday, February 19, and sunday, February 20, 2011, at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott. as a special bonus for the Home & Garden show goers plus the general public, the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market will have a preview weekend of our spring season displayed outside of the convention center during show hours. Home & Garden show admission tickets will not be necessary to shop at the Farmer’s Market, but discounted passes to the show will be available from our vendors.

the spring Farmer’s Market will reopen at our usual location of the Grogan’s Mill Village Center starting saturday, april 2, 2011.

village and residential design review committee elections

residential Design review Committee and Village association election Day will be held on saturday, February 19, 2011, with voting hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Convenience voting will occur for one week leading up to election Day (Monday, February 14 through Friday, February 18, 2011), with voting hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voting will be at the township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Submitted by Bruce Cunningham

Panther Creek

Get out and vote!

The Woodlands election day saturday, February 19, 2011

the Woodlands will have elections for residential Design review Committees and Village associations this month. every resident 18 years

and older is eligible to vote in the community election.

Panther Creek residents will be voting for vice president, secretary and six area representatives in the Panther Creek Village association for two-year terms. all residential Design review Committee members will be elected for one-year terms.

election Day will be saturday, February 19, 2011. early voting will be February 14 to 18, 2011. Panther Creek residents will vote at the Woodlands township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive, for both early voting and election Day.

at our February meeting, we will have Joel Deretchin, president of the Lake Woodlands Property association, as our guest speaker. there have been several questions about the use of Lake Woodlands and also about the assessments. this will be a time for you to ask and gain more information about the Lake Woodlands Property Owners association as it relates to the board and also its Constitution and bylaws.

the Panther Creek Village association meets at 7:30 p.m. on the second thursday of each month at the Woodlands township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. all Panther Creek residents are encouraged to attend the next meeting on February 10, 2011. every Panther Creek resident attending the village meetings (town hall style) is entitled and free to participate in discussions and vote on all matters presented at our meetings. vote on February 19, 2011!

Submitted by Everett Ison

a lden Brid G e

The alden bridge Village association (abVa) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3886 or Village association President Phillip barker at 281-364-1623.

c ochran’s c rossin G

The Cochran’s Crossing Village association (CCVa) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village association President Nancy becker at 936-321-4264.

c olle G e Park

The College Park Village association (CPVa) meets on the third Monday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at The Woodlands emergency Training Center. Please join us!

Web site www.villageofcollegepark.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889 or Village association President Glen bernstein at 936-273-3274.

c reekside Park

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village association (TWCPVa)

usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Creekside yMCa, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889.

Gro G an’s Mill

The Grogan’s Mill Village association (GMVa) meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village association President Deborah Sargeant at 281-292-5341.

i ndian sP rin G s

The Indian Springs Village association (ISVa) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village association President ron Kostelny at 281-362-8677.

Panther c reek

The Panther Creek Village association (PCVa) meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village association President everett Ison at 281-298-9524.

s terlin G r id G e

The Sterling ridge Village association (SrVa) meets the fourth Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library meeting room, 8125 ashlane Way. Please join us! Web site www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3888 or Village association President Phillip Givens at 281-419-9331.

e

yellow bell-shaped blossoms are often the first indication that Carolina jessamine is flowering high in the treetops. A great treat for pollinators! Cascading blossoms of this semi-evergreen to evergreen vine are ideal for adorning an arbor, trellis or fence. It is also a perfect selection for beautifying a snag or stump in your landscape that you are preserving for wildlife.

seeking signs of spring? Check high among the bare branches of the deciduous treetops where bright yellow flowers of a twining evergreen vine herald spring every February. Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) creates a sunny vision even on the gloomiest of waning winter days. yet, it is impossible to truly appreciate Carolina jessamine until the vine is encountered at ground level. Only then can we experience the sweet scented, bell-shaped flowers produced so abundantly in sun that they almost obscure the glossy, dark green, opposite leaves. Happily, the vine has a lengthy spring flowering period with an encore in fall, only not as profusely. Hummingbirds and spicebush swallowtail butterflies visit the flowers for nectar providing added appeal for the woodland landscape. (Note: all parts of the plant are toxic to humans.)

Carolina jessamine is easy to grow. In the sun, it may require pruning to control, but use the fast growth rate to your advantage for quick coverage of garden structures. Large specimens cannot be transplanted but small specimens, obtained from sprouts colonizing nearby, can be. Carolina jessamine thrives in sun to partial shade and prefers moist, welldrained soils. But as with many natives, established plants are tolerant of a range of growing conditions.

Discover seven additional perennial woodland vines in the Plant Focus brochure: Versatile Vines. It is one in a series of 16 brochures highlighting native and well-adapted plants for woodland landscapes. With spring in the air and thoughts turning to enhancing your landscape, please call the Woodlands township environmental services at 281-210-3900 for one or more of these full-color pocket references.

Photo by Joseph a. Marcus Lady bird Johnson Wildflower Center

By Kathie Gilmore Herrick

styrofoam adoutlines.eps 1 1/10/2011 4:35:38 PM

Woodlands

Your 2011 Event Guide

Visit www.theWoodlandsCVB.com and click on Event Calendar for all the events happening in the Woodlands!

Fall-Winter Discovery Guide & Savings Book Now Available!

the Fall-Winter Discovery Guide & savings Book features more than 75 coupons to merchants in the Woodlands including a $2-off coupon to the Woodlands Ice rink! request yours today online at www.thewoodlandscvb.com/guide.asp.

Follow Us on Facebook!

Join the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Facebook Fan Page to receive up-to-date information on events, new stores and other special offers! Visit www.Facebook.com/VisittheWoodlands.com.

do you have QuesTions about crime prevention? We have ansWeRs!

By anne spaulding

Q: is there a neighborhood watch program in The Woodlands?

a: yes! It is called The Woodlands Watch. It is facilitated through The Woodlands Township, Neighborhood Services Department. To find out if there is a Watch program in your neighborhood, contact Neighborhood Services at 281-210-3800 or e-mail neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Q: Why does The Woodlands need a neighborhood watch program? i thought we weren’t supposed to have much crime here?

a: The Woodlands does have a low crime rate. That is exactly why we have an active watch program in our community. We want to keep the crime rate low. The best time to get involved in a watch program is before

a community has a lot of crime. The Woodlands Watch provides residents with information they can use to help keep their families and neighborhoods from becoming victims of crime.

Q: if we are already a safe community, why do i need to worry about taking precautions against crime?

a: by not being proactive when it comes to crime prevention, we can create an atmosphere that is conducive to crime. Criminals quickly learn which neighborhoods are lax about safety precautions. For example, criminals know that residents in The Woodlands often keep their vehicle doors unlocked. as a result, one of the most prevalent crimes in The Woodlands is burglary of Motor Vehicles (bMVs), which is the theft of items from a vehicle.

Q: does this mean i’m going to have to go to a lot of trouble and expense to keep my home safe?

a: No. because The Woodlands is a safe community, residents just need to take simple, easy safety precautions. In fact, most of these precautions won’t cost you anything. These include keeping your vehicle and residence doors locked, not opening the door to anyone you do not know, having sufficient outdoor lighting and knowing who your neighbors are.

Q: don’t we have law enforcement that can patrol my neighborhood?

a: The majority of The Woodlands is served by The Woodlands Division of Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. The Village of Creekside Park, which is in Harris County, is served by Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4. These law enforcement agencies do an excellent job of patrolling our community, but they cannot be everywhere at all times. In addition, if we are familiar with our neighborhoods and the people who live there, we are much more likely than anyone else – including a law enforcement officer -- to be aware when something or someone looks suspicious.

s umme R e m P loymen T oPP o RT uni T ies

Pool Pass recreation aide, $7.25/hour (april through July), will process the new and renewal membership pool pass applications for the Woodlands neighborhood pools. experience should include previous cash handling, report reconciliation, heavy customer service, and basic computer skills with heavy data entry. Must be available to work a flexible schedule to include day, evening and weekends.

the Woodlands township is accepting applications for 2011 summer seasonal positions in the Parks and recreation Department. available positions are lifeguards from $7.75/hour, swim coaches from $8/hour and water safety instructors from $10/hour. training classes for positions will be provided at a reduced rate to successful candidates. aquatic recreation specialist from $12.75/hour (april through mid

July), will need to oversee swim team practices and all meets as well as overseeing other programs.

summer Camp positions are also available such as head camp counselor and camp counselor (must be 18) from $9/hour. Counselors will help coordinate and organize recreation programs and activities for children 6 to 12 years old attending summer camp (June, July and august) at the recreation Center.

all team members must be at least 16 years of age, unless otherwise stated, and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen. Leadership team members must also successfully complete an extensive background check. applications may be obtained from the Woodlands township, Parks Office Building, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive or recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive. For additional information or to apply online, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Residential Development Standards

Summary of Deed Restrictions

The Woodlands is a master-planned community. Construction and expansion of the Woodlands proceeds according to a carefully designed master plan. It provides for orderly development as each phase of residential, commercial and industrial land usage unfolds. Planning began long before the first street was laid or the first house was built. Long-range planning continues in order to preserve the quality of development and to maintain compatibility with the environment. that is why the Woodlands is unique!

Covenants protect and perpetuate the quality of our community. Ongoing development of the Woodlands is guided by a group of legally binding covenants and design standards which protect the aesthetic integrity of the community for generations to come. additions and modifications to residential properties

must be in compliance with these guidelines, thus assuring continuation of good design, maintenance of property values and preservation of the natural environment.

Residential design Review Committees facilitate covenant protections. each village in the Woodlands has a residential Design review Committee (rDrC) made up of at least three people elected by the village residents and property owners to serve one-year terms. Committee members serve in a volunteer capacity and represent the resident viewpoint essential to the evaluation and approval process. each village residential Design review Committee meets once a month to review property owners’ applications for modifications or additions to their properties.

Residential design Review Committee approval of a project is required. the Covenants require that changes and improvements to a property be reviewed before construction. to minimize delays, residential Development standards describe the rules and regulations for proposed improvements. adherence to those guidelines may result in preapproval or staff approval of a complete application and staff verification that the improvement complies with all

requirements of the standards. some projects require review by a committee. Once a complete application has been submitted, the application is reviewed by staff and or the committee. It may then be approved, approved conditionally or disapproved. as soon as written notification of approval has been received, the project may begin. application forms for various types of projects and copies of the most up-to-date standards are available at the Woodlands township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. the residential standards and most forms are available on the Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

The Residential design Review Committee aims to assist property owners when making improvements. the committee’s goal in the review process is to assist property owners when making changes. these changes require conformity to residential building codes, the architectural character of the neighborhood and applicable regulations that blend with the natural beauty of our surroundings.

The following is a brief summary for easy reference. this summary of the protective covenants and residential standards is representative, but not all-inclusive, of those now in effect in the Woodlands.

separate standards govern nonresidential projects. since the standards are updated from time to time, it is important that residents check with the Woodlands township for copies of the most current standards. applications for additions and modifications will be approved on the basis of the standards in effect on the date submitted for review. For further information, contact the Woodlands township at 281-210-3973. the Woodlands township service Center is located at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Summary of Standards

Fences: some lots are restricted to a specific fence design, including those with swimming pools or spas, on golf courses or lakes, corner lots, lots adjoining major streets, townhomes, patio homes and those in certain sections of the Woodlands.

Front yard fences, which must be of an “open” design, are limited in height depending on lot size. For most other fences, the maximum height is six feet. If the fence design has a front and a back, the front, or smooth side, must face outward on all sides of the lot. Prohibited fencing materials include: chain, chain link, wire mesh, wirebound picket, plastic, fiberglass, rope and bamboo.

decks and other patio structures: Decks, patios, arbors, trellises, sunshades, storage sheds, gazebos and similar structures must conform to the architectural character of the existing dwelling. Complete instructions and a list of unacceptable construction materials are included with the application form.

Colors and materials: exterior painting, repainting or re-staining requires review and approval in advance.

this standard applies to doors, shutters, trim and changes in siding and roofing materials. Colors in muted shades are the norm. Canvas awnings and roofs must be of solid muted shades. Please contact the Woodlands township for colors and material changes.

exterior lighting: Due to their industrial nature, some lamp types and fixture designs are not allowed on residential lots. In general, pole lights, pedestal lights and tree lights intended to shine downward must be located at least 20 feet inward from the street pavement edge and respect all easements. Mercury-vapor lamps are acceptable only in shielded fixtures mounted high in trees to provide low-level ambient property illumination (moonlight). the level of illumination of any light should not be offensive continued on page 26

The Woodlands Residential Development Standards -

or create a glare when viewed from outside the lot. Directional lights must be aimed into the lot on which they are installed. the light source may need to be shielded.

Play structures: Criteria for the color, materials and placement of play equipment and structures are designed to minimize visual impact of the equipment. Basketball goals must be located 20 feet from the street pavement edge or no less than halfway up the drive, or adjacent to the garage.

Play equipment and basketball goals are not permitted on cul-de-sac islands or on the street edge.

Forts, swing sets, etc., are restricted in height and size and must be located in the rear or side yard and not in any easement. Wood construction is preferred.

Room additions, garages, and detached buildings: Please call the Woodlands township for the additional neighborhood criteria that apply to any lot before planning a project. special restrictions as to the percentage of a lot that may be covered by hard surface material as well as the restrictions related to the amount of square feet of living area in a given home are attached to each lot. the design of any proposed alteration must be architecturally compatible with the dwelling.

Detailed construction drawings, exterior elevation drawings and specifications for color and materials must accompany the completed application. the drawings must indicate how the proposed improvement will relate architecturally to the existing residence, and the plans must be sealed by a licensed a.I.B.D./ t.I.B.D. or N.C.B.D.C. designer, licensed architect or licensed structural engineer. Inspections and a compliance deposit are required. Conversion of a garage or carport to some use other than for automobile storage is generally prohibited.

Pools and spas: Pools and spas must be enclosed by an approved fence with self-closing and self-latching gates. Pool barrier fencing must comply with the International residential Code. the pool and/or spa, as well as its associated decking, berms and waterfalls, must not encroach upon any easement. Concrete, paving, and interlocking pavers are also limited by standards regulating lot coverage. additionally, the water surface area is also limited by the standards. Inspections and a compliance deposit are required.

Covenant Provisions

landscaping and tree removal:

In an effort to preserve the forested environment and ecological balance of the Woodlands, no tree greater than six inches in diameter as measured at a point two feet above natural grade may be removed without prior written approval. at least 40 percent of the front yard area must be trees, shrubbery, flowers, mulch or plants. Native plants are encouraged.

Pets: residents of the Woodlands are limited in the number of animals to be kept outside the home. No more than two, either cats and/or dogs, may be kept outside. Puppies and kittens are not counted in this total until they are weaned from their mother. animals must not be allowed to run at large, but must be confined to the owner’s lot or controlled by a restraint device. Many annoyances such as barking dogs or loose pets are within the jurisdiction of the county or other governmental agencies.

Fireworks, firearms and hunting: the sale and use of fireworks and the use or discharge of firearms of any kind whatsoever is strictly prohibited on any property within the Woodlands. Hunting of any kind and by any method is also prohibited.

Residential lot use restrictions: Without prior approval by the residential Design review Committee, no structure may be used for any purpose other than that for which it was originally approved. No profession or home industry may be conducted from any residential property without committee approval. approval may be granted if the activity is shown to be compatible with the residential character of the neighborhood.

garage, yard, and estates sales are expressly prohibited.

the Woodlands Village associations conduct a flea market twice a year in which residents may participate.

boat, trailer and automobile parking and storage: Boats, trailers, trailer houses, recreational vehicles, truck campers, semi-truck tractors, or mobile homes may not be parked 48 consecutive hours or more on any street or any lot, where visible at ground level from a street or adjacent property. Parking on lawns, ditches, open space areas or other dirt, gravel or grassy areas is not allowed. Vehicles that are disabled or inoperable may not be stored in view on any lot.

disposition of trash and other debris: all trash and debris must be placed near the street no earlier than one day before regularly

scheduled trash pickup. Containers must be removed from public view by the end of the day trash is collected. trash cans may not be stored in public view.

No lumber, metals, bulk materials, refuse or trash may be kept, stored or allowed to accumulate on any lot or adjacent area such as greenbelts or open space areas, drainage easements, vacant lots, etc. Building materials may be stored temporarily on the premises during a construction project for a period not to exceed 120 days.

use of easements and rights-of-way: easements provide a buffer zone between properties to minimize the impact of one lot upon another. they are set aside for providing utility service and drainage to each lot, and to provide natural vegetative screening and privacy

separations between lots. Being certain that your project respects all easements is perhaps the most compelling reason to contact the Woodlands township before you complete your project plans.

This list is not inclusive. To avoid misunderstandings and inconvenience, always contact The Woodlands Township for the current standard as applicable at 281-210-3973.

For further information on Residential development standards, contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3973.

The Woodlands Township Service Center is located at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Big trucks, flashing lights, big wheels and loud noises for the third year running! Join us at the rob Fleming aquatic Center parking lot saturday, February 26, 2011, 9 to 11 a.m., for a morning full of fun climbing on, checking under the hood and learning what makes those big trucks go and what they do.

touch-a-truck is a unique event that allows everyone to get up close with larger trucks and heavy equipment. this is a free

event for the entire family brought to you by the Woodlands township Parks and recreation Department. We have had so much fun the last few years that this year we are bringing the big trucks, earth movers and construction vehicles back in February, not august, for your whole family to enjoy. and don’t forget our Kids Choice award! Bring the kids and let them tell us which truck they liked the best. at the close of the event we will present

the winning vehicle a plaque in honor of being chosen by the kids.

Once again, in conjunction with touch-a-truck, the Woodlands township recreation Center will host a Program extravaganza where you can check out the many different programs that we offer and meet the staff and instructors.

We will also have a “construction zone” of crafts! so bring your cameras, curiosity and join us for a morning full of fun.

By Linda Hughes

Photo by Linda Hughes

Photo by Kelly Dietrich

The Woodlands

Township neighborhood services department Presents

Watch Talk Wednesday:

An evening presentation on Social Media (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.)

All Woodlands residents are invited to attend!

When: Wednesday, March 2, 2011, 7 p.m.

WheRe: st. anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 7801 Bay Branch Drive*

Who/WhaT: social Media Presentation speakers: Federal Bureau of Investigation Victim specialist Cheryl shaffer and task Force Member Dorcy riddle will review social networking sites such as Facebook and My space. they will also review issues such as cyber bullying, sexting and online stalking.

*Please note this location for the evening March 2, 2011, Watch Talk Wednesday only.

important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. They may be submitted to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859. For more information, please call 281-210-3800.

Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome.

Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities

Gorilla Hole

Spring 2011 Schedule

February 4: i hate Valentine’s day

Special Free Gorilla Hole Party!

February 18: glow in the dark dance

March 4: decades

March 18: Tie dye

April 1: april Fools

April 15: spring Fever

May 6: hay day – hoedown

May 20: may madness

A fun and beloved tradition in The Woodlands for 17 years

theGorilla Hole made its debut in 1993, giving generations of kids an opportunity to socialize with their peers, eat, dance and participate in indoor and outdoor games and competitions. Held the first and third Fridays of each month from 7 to 9:45 p.m., the Gorilla Hole is a fun social program for fifth- and sixth-graders at the Woodlands township recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive. admission is $7 per person, with snacks and drinks selling for $1 each. Gorilla Hole t-shirts and glow sticks are also sold.

Dress code and proper behavior are enforced by two uniformed officers and township staff. For more information about this Woodlands tradition, please contact recreation Program Coordinator Cara Church at 281-210-3900 or cchurch@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.