February 2018

Bike-Sharing ROLLS INTO THE WOODLANDS

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

Fire Department (non-emergency) 281-367-3444

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77389

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (Montgomery County MUDs) 855-H20-SAVE (855-426-7283)

Harris – Montgomery Counties MUD No. 386, 281-290-6500

Emergency 911

For emergency information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST-FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.

message from the woodlands township board of directors

REMEMBER TO VOTE

Now that February is here, residents and property owners have the opportunity to choose representatives for their Village Associations and Residential Design Review Committees.

Elected leaders serve one-year terms and become part of the fabric of The Woodlands network of communication and leadership. Please see the article on page 10 for more information about the Village Association and Residential Design Review Committee elections, as well as a reminder article on election signage rules, and remember to vote! Election Day is Saturday, February 17, 2018. The Woodlands Township holds a separate election in November for The Woodlands Township Board of Directors.

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

ELECTION DAY IS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2018

John Anthony Brown

The Woodlands

COMMUNITY 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.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

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

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, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX, 77381, 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 Township and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the Township takes precedence over information submitted by any other source.

The Woodlands Community Magazine has earned three Communicator Awards of Distinction, the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators, a Merit Award from The Service Industry Advertising Awards and a Gold MarCom Award.

Guide to Deed Restrictions IN THE WOODLANDS

The Woodlands Township is a masterplanned community that provides for orderly development of residential and commercial land usage. Long-range planning is critical to preserving the quality of development and to maintaining compatibility with the environment.

Development of The Woodlands is guided by legally-binding covenants and development standards that protect the aesthetic integrity of the community.

Additions and modifications to all properties must be in compliance with these covenants and standards to assure continuation of architectural design, maintain property values and preserve the natural environment.

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEES

The covenants require that all changes and improvements to a property must be reviewed and approved in advance. Each developed 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 residents’ viewpoint essential to the evaluation and approval process. Each village RDRC meets once a month to review property owners’ applications for modifications or additions to their properties to ensure conformance with the covenants and standards.

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. Applications for additions and modifications will be approved on the basis of the standards in effect on the date submitted for review by the Residential Design Review Committee. The Residential Development Standards were revised in 2015. Please be sure to review the most current version.

For further information about the application process, please contact The Woodlands Township Covenant Adminstration Department at 281-210-3973. Application forms for various types of projects and copies of the most up-to-date standards are available at The Woodlands Township, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., and on the website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Summary of Standards

Most improvements require an application for review and approval.

Please see the applicable standard for requirements, or call The Woodlands Township Covenant Administration Department at 281-210-3973.

FENCES

All lots are restricted to a specific fence design, including those with ponds, swimming pools or spas, on golf courses or lakes, corner lots, lots adjoining major streets, townhomes, patio homes, etc.

Where permitted, a single rot board no taller than 6 inches may be included at the base of the fence, to allow the fence to be 6 feet, 6 inches in height. The smooth side must face outward on all sides of the lot and the construction side must not be visible to adjacent streets or any tract of land. Prohibited fencing materials include chain link, wire or wire mesh unless within the enclosure of a solid fence, sheet or expanded metal and stamped metal posts, plastic or fiberglass (corrugated, flat or woven), rope, bamboo, reed or wire-bound wood pickets and unfinished cinder block.

DECKS AND OTHER OUTDOOR STRUCTURES

Decks, patios, arbors, trellises, sunshades, storage sheds, gazebos, patio covers and similar structures may be permitted, as long as they do not extend into any easements or building setback lines. The standards define permitted materials and height requirements.

Please contact the The Woodlands Township Covenant Administration Department for more detailed information before commencing with construction of these types of projects.

COLORS AND MATERIALS

Colors that harmonize with the natural landscape are strongly encouraged. Muted shades are considered to be most appropriate. Colors and materials must be compatible with each other so as to develop a cohesive appearance for the dwelling appropriate to its architectural character and to the neighborhood.

Construction materials must be compatible with the original architectural character of the existing dwelling and neighborhood. When enlarging, extending or remodeling an existing improvement, the materials must be compatible with those of the existing improvement. Materials must harmonize with the natural landscape.

Roofing colors must harmonize with the natural landscape, community and neighborhood criteria.

Acceptable roofing materials include tile, slate, composition shingles, stone coated or standing seam metal and cement-fiberboard products. All metal roofing must be free of any types of glossy finish. The Woodlands Township maintains a current chart of acceptable composition shingle roofing materials for reference and comparison.

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 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 must be shielded.

Lights mounted on buildings, poles or trees to provide general lot illumination must be mounted in fixtures that shield visibility of the lamp from the street or adjacent properties and direct the illumination upward or downward.

PLAY STRUCTURES

Criteria for the color, materials and placement of play equipment and structures are designed to minimize visual impact of the equipment.

continued on page 8

Guide to Deed Restrictions

Permanent basketball goals must be mounted to the residence or on a pole at least 20 feet from a street edge and 5 feet from the side lot line. Freestanding basketball goals, including portable goals, must be located at least 20 feet from the street pavement edge or no less than half way up the drive or adjacent to the dwelling or garage. Basketball goals may not be placed on any easements.

Forts, swing sets, etc., are restricted in height, tarp color and size and must be located in the rear or side yard and not in any easement. Wood construction is preferred. Play structures taller than 8 feet require approval prior to installation.

ROOM ADDITIONS, GARAGES, DETACHED BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES

In addition to many other requirements set forth in the covenants, standards and neighborhood criteria, all improvements must be architecturally compatible.

Architectural compatibility is a continuity or agreeable relationship of architectural style, mass, proportion, scale, materials, color and design detail with existing and planned improvements on adjacent properties and in the

neighborhood. 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.

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 an A.I.B.D./T.I.B.D. or N.C.B.D.C. designer, licensed architect or structural

engineer. Inspections and a refundable compliance deposit are also required. Conversion of a garage or carport to some use other than for automobile storage is generally prohibited. Exceptions may be granted where an architecturally compatible approved replacement structure is provided.

POOLS AND SPAS

The pool and/or spa, as well as its associated decking, berms and waterfalls must not encroach upon any easements. Concrete, paving and interlocking pavers are also limited by standards regulating lot coverage.

Additionally, the water surface and hard surface areas are restricted by the criteria for all lots. Pools and spas must be enclosed by an approved fence with self-closing and self-latching gates. Pool barrier fencing must comply with the most currently adopted property code. Applications, plans and inspections as well as a refundable compliance deposit are required.

Covenant Provisions

LANDSCAPING AND TREE REMOVAL

Residential lots in The Woodlands have been developed to preserve as much of the natural forest as possible. Native vegetation is the single most important landscape element in The Woodlands. It provides the unity and constant “sense of green” that is of immeasurable value to the visual pleasure and enjoyment of the outdoor experience. The preservation of native vegetation — tree canopy, under story and forest floor — is strongly encouraged. In an effort to preserve the forested environment and ecological balance of The Woodlands, no living tree greater than 6 inches in diameter (as measured at a point 2 feet above natural grade) may be removed without prior written approval.

PETS

Residents of The Woodlands are limited in the number of animals to be kept outside the home. No more than two customary household pets may be placed or kept outside of the home. Animals must not be allowed to run at large, but must be confined to the owner’s lot or controlled by a restraint device.

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

The Woodlands Covenants prohibit business use of a single-family lot without

approval by the Development Standards Committee (DSC) or the Development Review Committee (DRC).

A home business is a profession or home industry conducted in or on any part of a Lot or in any Improvement thereon on the property that is to be used in whole or in part. In addition to the general requirement as set forth in the Covenants and Standards, a home business for shortterm rental purposes have additional rules and restrictions and will only be considered for approval by the Plan Review Committees.

GARAGE, YARD AND ESTATE 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. Motor vehicles that are disabled or mechanically inoperable on a public street may not be parked on any street or at a location where visible at ground level from any street or adjacent property.

DISPOSITION OF TRASH AND OTHER DEBRIS

All trash, refuse or recycling containers may be placed near the street edge no earlier than one day prior to waste collection. Emptied containers must be removed from the street, front yard or

driveway by the end of the collection day. Containers must be stored on the owner’s property at all times. All trash and refuse containers must be stored out of public view at ground level from the street or alley or adjacent and surrounding properties at all times except during waste collection.

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.

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 complies with the specific criteria for your neighborhood, respects all easements and setbacks are all perhaps the most compelling reason to contact The Woodlands Township before you complete your project plans.

This list is not all-inclusive. Please contact The Woodlands Township Covenant Administration Department for the current standard, as applicable, at 281-210-3973, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/covenants

VOTE 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 listed below; however, any race that is uncontested as of 5 p.m. on January 24 will be cancelled. Please check the Township’s website for a list of contested races and cancellations.*

ALL VILLAGES

Residential Design Review Committee

• Up to five Residential Design Review Committee members to be elected for each village, all serving one-year terms. This includes two committees for Indian Springs, which is divided into two geographic areas based on Covenant imposition.

VILLAGE ASSOCIATIONS

The following village association positions are up for election in February 2018:

Alden Bridge Village Association

• 9 At Large Area Representatives (two-year term)

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association

• 18 At Large Area Representatives (one-year term)

College Park Village Association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• Treasurer (two-year term)

• 9 At Large Area Representatives (one-year term)

Creekside Park Village Association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• Treasurer (two-year term)

• Events Chair (one-year term)

• 11 At Large Area Representatives (one-year term)

Grogan’s Mill Village Association

• 8 At Large Area Representatives (two-year term)

Indian Springs Village Association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• Treasurer (two-year term)

• 7 At Large Area Representatives (two-year term)

Panther Creek Village Association

• 9 At Large Area Representatives (two-year term)

Sterling Ridge Village Association

• 7 At Large Village Directors (two-year term)

VOTE!

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 Town Hall, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Convenience Voting: Monday, February 12, through Friday, February 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Election Day: Saturday, February 17, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

* Write-In Candidates and Cancellation of Uncontested Races In the February 2018 election, write-in votes will only be counted for those candidates who have filed as such by January 24 at 5 p.m. Elections will be cancelled for any Residential Design Review Committee or Village Association that does not have a contested race as of 5 p.m. on that date, and the seating and/or filling of vacancies will proceed in accordance with the entity’s bylaws. Check The Woodlands Township Website for a list of contested races and cancellations.

More information regarding elections can be found on The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or by calling 281-210-3800.

OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.

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Houston

NATIVE PLANT SPOTLIGHT: Cercis canadensis var.texensis

By Ann Hall

With little maintenance and beautiful color, the Texas Redbud is a perfect addition to your landscape.

Erupting suddenly in early spring, the brilliant pink to magenta flowers of the Texas Redbud signal that warmer weather is arriving. Dramatically contrasting with the bare grey bark of the tree, the buds and flowers emerge before the leaves. With different appearances in each season, the Texas Redbud is a striking addition to the home landscape. Following the showy pink flowers, the tree in summer provides a beautiful display of large heart-shaped glossy green leaves. Nearly hidden in the leaves are flat green seed pods which mature to a dark brown or maroon in fall. With the display of yellow fall leaves, the Texas Redbud offers an entirely different landscape enhancement in autumn. Even in winter, this deciduous

tree is interesting with multiple trunks to show off the dark grey bark.

Hidden assets of the native Texas Redbud include edible flowers and seeds offering numerous vitamins and protein. In addition, the tree serves as a host plant for 27 species of butterflies and moths, provides winter food for birds, particularly chickadees, and nesting sites and nest material for many other birds.

A small to medium multi-trunked understory tree or tall shrub, the Texas Redbud requires little maintenance in the home landscape. The tree exhibits high drought tolerance, requires only a small amount of pruning, adapts to various soil types and has low to medium watering requirements. A well-drained site is important to this tree’s health.

The easy care of this tree is enhanced by its general resistance to pests.

Landscaping uses include the edges of wooded areas, as a small specimen tree or a focal point in a planting bed. Locally available in nurseries specializing in Texas natives, the Texas Redbud is a rewarding landscape plant.

Community Election Signage Information

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, the owner of a lot may display one political sign promoting a candidate for each office or issue on the ballot on his or her Residential or Commercial Lot. The sign(s) may be displayed beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the day of the election. A two-sided sign is considered one sign.

In addition, the non-governmental election signs must be in good repair and aesthetically pleasing in keeping with the character of the community. The signs must not be lighted, accompanied by music, sound, balloons or streamers, or be distracting to motorists. The yard signs are not to exceed six square feet in area, and not exceed five feet in total installed height (including the mounting post). Signs are not permitted in public road rights-of-way.

During early voting, two election signs promoting each candidate or 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 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 to limit 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 must be removed within 24 hours following the day of the election. Signs are not permitted in the public road rights-of-way.

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 governmental elections conducted by the county, state, or federal government (including primary elections) or by any political sub-division of the state (including the November election of Township Directors), the owner of a lot may display one political sign promoting a candidate for each office or issue on the ballot on his or her Residential or Commercial Lot. The sign(s) may be displayed beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the

day of the election or runoff election. A two-sided sign is considered one sign. 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, 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.

This is a summary of the sign standard only. For complete information regarding the sign standards for elections in The Woodlands, please contact the Covenant Administration Department at 281-210-3973.

The Woodlands Township Launches BIKE-SHARE PROGRAM in Partnership

with Mobike

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently approved an exciting new amenity for residents and visitors. In partnership with Mobike, the world’s largest smart bike-share platform, the Township now offers a healthy and environmentally-sound way to traverse the pathways around The Woodlands. The partnership officially started rolling on January 5, 2018, at a special event hosted by the Township in Town Green Park. The program is the first of its kind in the Houston metropolitan area.

Chairman of the Board Gordy Bunch said a bike-share program makes great sense for The Woodlands. “The Woodlands is a health conscious community and features many great outdoor activities for fitness with more than 200 miles of pathways and over 130 parks,” he said. “There are so many great places to see and visit by bicycle. We’re pleased Mobike wants to launch its first concept in Texas right here in The Woodlands.”

Mobike is a re-imagination and delivery of the ultimate urban bicycle with innovations such as non-puncture airless tires, a lightweight aluminum anti-rust frame, an enhanced and durable disk-brakes and an auto-inspired five-spoke wheel. These functional design elements result in a nearly maintenance-free bike. Each bicycle is connected to the Mobike network through GPS-embedded smart locks; forming one of the largest Internet of Things (IoT) networks on the globe.

The Mobike mobile app is available for download in Google Play and Apple App Store. Users can download the app on a smartphone and easily rent a bike on the spot, pay for their rental directly through the app or even schedule their bike rental in advance. The bike rental fee is $1 for 30 minutes for individual users. The program is no cost to the Township.

Bruce Rieser, Chairman of Visit The Woodlands, said the tourism entity has been looking for a good solution

as it promotes the great outdoors. “Our tourists and meeting planners consistently talk about the great trails and pedestrian-friendly downtown area found in The Woodlands,” he said. “Our hotel guests and visitors will now be able to rent a bicycle at a very low cost and discover this great destination.”

The collaboration between The Woodlands Township and Mobike was led by Houston native Lance Li, now a Launcher for Mobike, and John Powers, the Assistant General Manager, Community Services for The Woodlands Township.

“We have been working for seven years to bring bike-sharing to The Woodlands, and it was worth the wait,” said Powers. “By introducing Mobike into the community, residents and visitors have access to cuttingedge technology as well as a convenient and affordable way to get some exercise and explore the community. The best part is that it doesn’t cost the Township anything to operate as a site for Mobike.”

Jason Wong, U.S. General Manager for Mobike, said he was pleased to bring bike-sharing to The Woodlands. “I want to thank The Woodlands Township Board of Directors and everyone involved with the planning process for accepting us with open arms as we strive to make cycling the most convenient, affordable and environmentally-friendly transportation option for residents and visitors alike,” he said.

Currently, Mobikes can be found near The Woodlands Town Center: Hughes Landing, Market Street, The Woodlands Mall, Town Green Park, Waterway Square and The Woodlands Waterway.

Photo courtesy of Mobike

The Woodlands Township launched its partnership with Mobike on January 5, 2018, in Town Green Park, bringing bike-sharing to the community. Pictured left to right: Director Bruce Rieser, Director Brian Boniface, Treasurer John Anthony Brown, Secretary Dr. Ann Snyder, Director Carol Stromatt, Chamber of Commerce CEO J.J. Hollie, Township Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda, U.S. General Manager of Mobike Jason Wong, and Mobike Houston Operations Manager Will Rub.

Photo by Perry Frank

WE’RE BETTER TOGETHER.

Life’s too hard to go it alone.

Come live as you were really intended: in a community of people who will walk beside you in the good times and bad. Each week we meet to worship God, serve others and connect through programs and opportunities for all ages.

Join us as we find meaning and purpose together at The Woodlands United Methodist Church.

February 2018

Waterway Nights is a free, family-friendly event! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy an evening outdoors with live music and entertainment. For the schedule, go to www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/waterwaynights Photo by Derrick Bryant

Thursday, February 1

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Friday, February 2

Gorilla Hole: Minute to Win It

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, February 3

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Composting Class: Learn to Compost and Have a Healthier Garden Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive 10 a.m.

281-210-3800

Hands-Only CPR Training (Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge) Fire Station 7 26722 Kuykendahl Road 10 a.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, February 6

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Thursday, February 8

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, February 9

Family Game Night – Bingo

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 281-516-7348

Saturday, February 10

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) www.grogansmillvillage.com

Tuesday, February 13

A Novel Bunch – Book Club Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 6:30 p.m. 281-516-7348

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, February 15–

Monday, February 19

2nd Annual Inspire Film Festival

The Inspire Film Festival 2018 is a five-day cinematic event dedicated to entertaining and inspiring audiences with films and events that celebrate the human spirit. Festival passes are on sale now at www.inspirefilmfest.com.

Friday, February 16

Gorilla Hole: Movie Night

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, February 17

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Hands-Only CPR Training

(Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge)

Fire Station 1

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

10 a.m.

281-210-3800

Hands-Only CPR Training

(Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge)

Fire Station 3

1522 Sawdust Road

2 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, February 19

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Thursday, February 22

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, February 24

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Tuesday, February 27

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, February 28

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Going Green Sustainability Lecture

Soil: Your Ultimate Water Reservoir

Presented by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

7 p.m.

HARC (Houston Advanced Research Center) 8801 Gosling Road

www.thewoodlandsgreen.org

For more recreational and environmental events, please see pages 19 and 20.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

This month’s residents/board meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. Our speaker hasn’t been identified at this time, so watch our Facebook page for updates. Stop by, introduce yourself and find out more about your village association. We always love to meet residents.

Election Day for Village Associations and RDRC is Saturday, February 17, 2018. Alden Bridge will elect nine at-large area reps and five members of the Residential Design Review Committee. Information on voting dates and times is available on the Township website. Please vote!

We’re planning for our 2018 scholarship program, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. If you or someone you know will begin higher education in 2018, please consider applying for one of our scholarships. All graduating high school students residing in Alden Bridge are eligible to submit an application. See your high school counselor for details, and don’t hesitate to compete for one of these! Scholarship forms also can be obtained by downloading from www.aldenbridge.org/scholarships or by writing to Alden Bridge Village Association, Attn: Scholarship Committee, P.O. Box 7343, The Woodlands, TX 77387-7343.

Our board members and friends will be cheering on the runners in The Woodlands Marathon on the morning of Saturday, March 3, 2018. We’re always at the same spot at the corner of Kuykendahl and Bay Branch, right by St. Anthony of Padua Church. It’s a great place to view the runners coming by - we have a lively deejay and really work hard to encourage the runners. Come stand with us and cheer along; we’ll save you a place. The village cheer group voted the favorite by runners receives a donation for their scholarship fund. Help us win!

For more news of our village, please visit our Facebook page and sign up for our monthly email newsletter. Just send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org and we’ll sign you up. Use that same email address to contact us with any concerns about life in Alden Bridge. We’re here to help our residents.

Enjoy the month and do something special for Valentine’s Day!

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

There are a few matters of business that should be mentioned as we move into the new year. Cochran’s Crossing has 18 village board positions. That is more directors than any other village association. All directors and officers serve a one-year term. That is also different from some other villages. It’s a benefit for Cochran’s Crossing since there are always hold-over directors, and new directors can generate ideas leading to new activities or improvement of those carried out in past years.

Of course, it’s possible that 18 or fewer candidates for the board will file for the election, which will be held on February 17, 2018. If so, there will not be an election. All will become board members. The open positions will be filled by a majority vote of the village board at a duly-called meeting of the new village board. Officers will be elected at the second regularly-scheduled meeting, which is usually March.

During the past year, the Cochran’s Crossing village board began the effort of reviewing and potentially revising the bylaws, which were last modified in 2011. It is expected that this effort will continue in 2018. Any new directors will be brought up to date on the process.

If you would like to hear more about the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association, contact Gary Conwell, secretary, at 281-387-6986 or gconwell1@gmail.com

Make sure you are on our Facebook page and sign up for the village association newsletter.

Remember, all village meetings are open. Residents are encouraged to attend. Except for October when a special planning meeting for the Fall Festival is usually scheduled, and no meeting in December, all meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

Panther Creek

As the new year of 2018 has started, we note that the final weeks of 2017 were a flurry of activity for Panther Creek residents and the village association board.

The judging teams for the villagewide Holiday Lighting and Decorating contest had a delightfully difficult time choosing between the many festively-lit homes and neighborhoods. If you missed driving through it, put it on your calendar for next year. Pictures can be viewed at www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org.

The village association board also made sure that our senior residents were included in the holiday spirit by distributing carefully selected items at area retirement living centers. The smiles these gifts engendered were priceless.

The smiles were also wonderfully evident on the faces of those receiving the community-wide generosity of the Blue Elf project, headed up by our Montgomery County Sheriff Department deputies and supported by the board and past longtime member, Peggy Hausman. Thanks to all of you who supported this wonderful program.

Panther Creek also supported the project of budding young scientists and engineers at Sally K. Ride Elementary School in the Logo Project Competition, with their perceptive demonstrations of the problems for our water needs along with inventive solutions.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

It is time to start thinking and preparing for the Spring Flea Market. Keep checking www.woodlandsfleamarket.org for details of dates and location.

Those who filed by the January deadline will appear on the ballot for positions as area representatives for election. Convenience voting is held daily at The Woodlands Township starting on February 12, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final day for voting is on Election Day, February 17, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can help conserve our water by participating in The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department Water-Wise Village Challenge. To register your pledge to turn off automatic watering systems, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/ GDZTGKG .

The Panther Creek village board is always here to help with community issues and with information about the wonderful opportunities you can participate in to keep The Woodlands a “real hometown” for you and your family. Visit us online, on Facebook and best of all, in person, at 7 p.m., the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.aldenbridge.org

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.cochranscrossing.com

COLLEGE PARK

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.villageofcollegepark.com

CREEKSIDE PARK

Creekside Park Village Association usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

GROGAN’S MILL

Grogan’s Mill Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

INDIAN SPRINGS

Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.indianspringsvillage.com

PANTHER CREEK

Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

STERLING RIDGE

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Website www.sterling-ridge.org

By Kacey Wilkins

Mark Your Calendar for Spring Activities

WITH THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

Compost Class

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018

10 TO 11 A.M.

The Woodlands Township Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services Facility

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381 Free; no registration required.

Learn from Montgomery County Master Gardeners the easy, cost-effective way to enrich your yard and garden with compost made in your own backyard. Compost is the easiest way to improve soil’s ability to hold moisture and manage yard trimmings at the same time. Compost bins are available for half-price for attendees - only $25! (Limit one per person.)

Creating Habitats Workshop

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2018

8 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 I-H 45 South, Conroe, TX 77385 Free; registration required.

In partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife, The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department will coordinate a workshop to provide ways for Township residents and property managers to improve habitat for pollinators and beneficial wildlife. This program will provide strategies that residents can employ around their homes and cul-de-sacs.

Walk in the Woods: Birds of Prey

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2018

5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389 Free; registration required.

Explore nature at your back door! Experts reveal the extraordinary plants and wildlife of East Texas with a different program each month from February through April and September through November. For this program, the wildlife presentation will occur outdoors from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. An evening nature walk will follow.

Advanced Vegetable Gardening

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2018

9 A.M. TO NOON

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 I-H 45 South, Conroe, TX 77385 Free; registration required.

Texas vegetable gardening expert, Skip Richter, will share his special knowledge and experience to provide support with spring vegetable gardening in our challenging southeast Texas climate. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment or call 281-210-3800 for more information.

2018 Village Tree Planting

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2018

8 A.M. TO NOON

Creekside Village Corner of Red Barn Way and West New Harmony Trail Free; register online to join us as a volunteer.

Make a difference at The Township’s fourth annual Village Tree Planting event. Residents of all ages will plant thousands of trees as part of the community’s reforestation program. For the event, volunteers are encouraged to bring shovels and gloves and wear comfortable clothing. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment or call 281-210-3800.

COMING UP NEXT MONTH:

Compost Class

SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 2018

10 TO 11 A.M.

The Woodlands Township Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services Facility 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

Free; no registration required.

Learn from Montgomery County Master Gardeners the easy, cost-effective way to enrich your yard and garden with compost made in your own backyard. Compost is the easiest way to improve soil’s ability to hold moisture and manage yard trimmings at the same time. Compost bins are available for half-price for attendees - only $25!

(Limit one per person.)

Walk in the Woods: Snakes and More

THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2018

5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389

Free; registration required.

Explore nature at your back door! Experts reveal the extraordinary plants and wildlife of East Texas with a different program each month from February through April and September through November. Each program features a keynote speaker and is accompanied by a nature walk. For this program, the keynote presentation will occur from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by a walk through the George Mitchell Nature Preserve.

Earth Day GreenUP:

2018 Community Cleanup

SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2018

GREENUP: 8:30 TO 11:30 A.M.

Litter cleanups are held at parks throughout The Woodlands. Please visit website for location details.

Celebration: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

Together, residents across The Woodlands will target litter on pathways, along waterways and in greenbelts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors, and keep our community green. Join the community-wide stewardship project beginning at 8:30 a.m. at multiple locations throughout The Woodlands. A community celebration will follow at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive. Join us for food, music, education booths and games from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

By Susan Martin

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge

To raise awareness of the lifesaving value of CPR and how it supports our first responders, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites you to participate in the Village Challenge for Hands-Only CPR. The Township Neighborhood Watch is teaming up with The Woodlands Fire Department, Montgomery County Hospital District and the American Heart Association to offer Hands-Only CPR training opportunities. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training will be included.

The training events will be held at each of the fire stations located in The Woodlands. (See schedule.)

The village associations with the top three percentages of residents trained will receive a cash donation for their scholarship fund from Woodlands North Houston Heart Center. CHI St. Luke’s Hospital is also a sponsor.

Additional trainings can be scheduled for your group, organization or business based on availability of training staff and equipment. Contact neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information.

The American Heart Association still recommends that you take a CPR course to practice and learn the full skills of CPR, including rescue breaths and high quality chest compressions.

Check the Events Calendar on The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, for information on full Heartsaver CPR /

AED and First Aid classes to be held at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center, 16135 IH-45 South. For more information, please call 281-210-3800.

SCHEDULE

February 3, 2018 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

STATION 7 – 26722 Kuykendahl Road

February 17, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 1 – 9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

February 17, 2018 2 to 4 p.m.

STATION 3 – 1522 Sawdust Road

March 3, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 8 – 11800 Gosling Road

March 3, 2018 2 to 4 p.m.

STATION 5 – 10100 Branch Crossing Drive

March 24, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 6 – 1100 Windsor Lakes Boulevard

April 7, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 4 – 7900 Bay Branch Drive

April 7, 2018 2 to 4 p.m.

STATION 2 – 9303 Gosling Road

Participate in The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge and learn valuable lifesaving skills with Hands-Only CPR training!

Photo by Kacie Gurney

Enroll Now for SUMMER SWIM TEAMS

By Debbie Arnold

Each summer, The Woodlands Township sponsors three summer league teams that compete locally in a fun and recreational – but fast-paced – nineweek summer program as part of the larger NWAL (North West Aquatic League). This is not the same as our “learn to swim” program, but our young swimmers, ages six to 18, have an absolute blast every day, make new friends and develop lifelong skills. If you are thinking about enrolling your little swimmer in a competitive swim team this summer, but want to know more about the program and the process, here is some information to get you started!

Enrollment for returning swimmers and siblings has already begun; existing team members were eligible to re-enroll beginning on January 15, 2018, and their new friends can join in starting this month! Beginning on February 5, 2018, enrollment opens for new and transferring swimmers. With up to 250 swimmers on each of the teams, your children are bound to know someone already – and if not, then they have a lot of new friends to make!

Our annual kickoff party will be held on March 25, 2018, at the new

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. From 1 to 3 p.m., kids and families can meet the coaches, pick up a free team T-shirt and all swimmers get a free frozen yogurt! Families take this chance to also pick the team swimsuit and “swag” while the kids hang out with their new teammates, play games and jump around in bounce houses.

Practice for all teams will begin this season on Monday, April 23, 2018, and the season continues until mid-June with Divisional Meets (an end-of-season swim meet) held on Saturday, June 16, 2018, and invitational swim meets held the following weekend for those who qualify. Each team will host at least three home swim meets on Saturday mornings at the locations below, and travel to three away meets on the weekends they are not hosting, all from May 5, 2018, to June 9, 2018.

Each age group will practice for about an hour each day by themselves, so the little ones are never in danger of being ‘run over’ by the older kids in the water. Our experienced, well-trained coaches are both on deck and in the water, closely working with all swimmers to improve the

skills needed for competitive swimming. Age groups are capped at about 50 children per team so that the Township can provide a quality program to everyone involved.

After all the hard work your child puts in this season, we will have an end-of-season party to wrap up the year. On June 16, 2018, we will close out the season with a private event at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center for an evening of ribbons and trophies, games, food and fun!

If your company would like to be a sponsor for one or more of our 2018 swim teams, we have different levels of sponsorships available from the $500 level up to the $2,000 level. For more information on sponsorships, please email us at aquatics@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Teams fill up quickly! To enroll, call the Aquatic Programs Coordinator during business hours at 281-210-3904; eligibility will need to be verified in order to compete in the NWAL. Any child who has previously been on the roster of a different NWAL team must complete the waiver process to be given permission to switch teams. You can also find more information online, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

RIPTIDES

WAVES

Sign Up Now for Township Transit Alerts!

By Kacie Gurney

The Woodlands Transportation Department now offers email and text alerts to notify trolley and bus riders of urgent changes to routes, stops and hours. These alerts will be sent whenever weather or unforeseen traffic issues require changes to the regular operations of Township transit. Riders may elect to receive alerts by email, text or both. To sign up, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ NotifyMe and input your email address and/or phone number in the fields and save. Scroll to Woodlands Transit Alerts and click on the email and mobile icons to begin your subscription.

In addition to text and email alerts, riders can always find the latest updates on the Township Transportation Twitter feed by following @TownshipTransit. For questions, please contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/transportation.

Photo by Perry Frank

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP PROUDLY ANNOUNCES RENOVATIONS TO BEAR BRANCH PARK

By Karl Shaw

Major renovations to Bear Branch Park began on December 11, 2017, and will continue this spring with the goal of opening the newly-renovated recreation pool and the expanded recreation center parking lot by early June 2018, weather permitting.

BearBranch Park was initially developed in 1992 to include a pool, teen center, tennis courts and parking. A revised 2001 Master Plan added basketball courts, a dog park, skating rink, pavilion, concessions/restrooms, more tennis courts, and a skate park –amenities which were opened to the public between 2005 and 2008.

Then, in 2016, The Woodlands community experienced a pair of extreme and damaging flood events, led by the Tax Day Flood of 2016. Due in a part to the impact of those events, and a community request to build a 50M pool, the Township Board of Directors authorized another update to the park’s Master Plan.

This redeveloped plan with five phases was presented to the Board in April 2017, and at that time staff was directed to work with consultants to develop construction documents for Phases I (recreational pool) and III (expanded parking lot).

PHASE I is a complete renovation of the Bear Branch recreational pool and the pool buildings, as well as the areas immediately surrounding the pool entrance –creating an all new experience for Woodlands residents. The pool is being demolished and re-built entirely, and when completed, it will more closely resemble something like the recreational facilities at Cranebrook Park

and Wendtwoods Park, with a large free-formed shallow end for younger kids, a small play structure, zero-depth entry, additional deck space, and four lap lanes. The deep end and diving boards were ultimately eliminated following concerns related to potential flooding, as well as Township liability concerns. Certain additional design elements have been included to prevent future flood damage to the new pool. The popular orca whalethemed slide from the old baby pool has been saved and will be placed at the side of the new pool. The pool building is being re-imagined with greatly expanded bathrooms on both sides of the breezeway and a new pump house being constructed to the west to make room for these additional amenities.

PHASE III is a simpler, but equally important, project and includes an extensive redesign of the “front” or western side parking lot that is closest to the original Woodlands Recreation Center. The redesign creates additional parking spaces for visitors to the recreation center and pool (as well as more overflow parking for the Bear Branch Sports Fields across the street), a second park exit on the far west side that should greatly improve traffic flow into and out of the park onto Research Forest Drive, and fantastic new drop-off lanes near both the Recreation Center and the pool.

In the meantime, the Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park remains open. Residents can access the programs at the Rec Center and the bathrooms, tennis courts, and skate park in the north end of Bear Branch by utilizing the east parking lot and the park’s pathway system.

The new Bear Branch Park Master Plan takes flooding patterns into greater account while balancing resident desires as expressed in a 2011-12 needs assessment and 2016 public meetings, park ingress and egress concerns, and flood mitigation strategies. The Plan lays out five distinct phases for major renovations to be undertaken at the park as funding is approved. Phases that have not yet been funded include:

• PHASE II: Additional parking and outdoor recreational amenities on the north and east sides

• PHASE IV: Addition of a 50M competitive lap pool in the center of the park

• PHASE V: Renovation of, and indoor recreational amenity additions, to the Rec Center

The Board may choose to fund these future phases in any order, and no timeline has currently been set.

The Township would like to sincerely thank Burditt Consultants, LLC, for their valuable and comprehensive efforts in the development of the new Bear Branch Park Master Plan and for their ongoing help in bringing the vision to life!

Bear Branch Park is currently undergoing a substantial renovation with enhanced facilities for residents with a targeted completion date of June 2018.

February: Time for Rose Pruning and Sprinkler Checks

Asmost rose gardeners know, February is the time to prune roses. Valentine’s Day is the very best time to begin pruning.

February is also time to check your sprinkler systems. Programmable or not, a faulty or misdirected sprinkler head will cost more money in the long run. If the head is misdirected, then it’s not adequately irrigating the space as intended. This will lead to dead spots in lawns, or fungal infections on other sections of the turf.

Broken heads cause more immediate problems. Whether a geyser is spouting water from a sprinkler head broken above ground or is bubbling up through the soil from another break, it can lose 13 to 16 gallons per minute. If a sprinkler riser is left unrepaired, it will waste about 7,800 gallons in a month based on typical use. Depending on usage, such waste can be costly.

While geysers are visible, heads which are broken or cracked below the ground may be bubbling water at the same rate. These are harder to see, and many times harder to locate.

The Woodlands Irrigation System Evaluation (W.I.S.E.) Guys program enables homeowners to have their systems checked free of charge. The W.I.S.E. Guys are a team of licensed and vetted irrigators who will inspect an entire irrigation system. They generate a report which pinpoints problems in the irrigation

By Bob Dailey

system and methods which the homeowner can use to remedy the situation.

The W.I.S.E. Guy program was developed in The Woodlands at The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, but now reaches statewide, with a significant number of municipalities and municipal utility districts participating.

Any resident of The Woodlands can apply for an evaluation. To sign up, residents in areas served by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency can visit www.wjpa.org. Residents of the May Valley neighborhood of Sterling Ridge Village, and those in Creekside Park Village, can sign up at www.municipaldistrictservices.com.

The W.I.S.E. Guys won’t prune your roses, but they will save you money by helping you conserve water and ultimately, helping you to have a healthy lawn.

Note:

Don’t let the recent snow in The Woodlands deter you; February is the month to prune your roses in preparation for spring!

Photo courtesy of Cliff Roe Photography

Join Us for Camp Terramont 2018

By Tyler Little

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center is excited to host the 11th Annual Camp Terramont, starting at noon on Saturday, March 24, 2018, until 9 a.m. on Sunday, March 25, 2018. Camp Terramont provides you and your family an opportunity to enjoy a fun evening of activities and camping at Terramont Park. In addition to traditional favorites such as sitting around a warm campfire and enjoying delicious s’mores, there will be a variety of games and activities for children to participate in, such as field games, scavenger hunt, crafts and a movie under the stars. Dinner, breakfast and snacks are all included; just bring your tent and sleeping bags. If you have any questions about Camp Terramont, please contact The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3950. We hope to see your family there!

Celebrate Our Natural Forest with the Village Tree Planting A GROWING TOWNSHIP TRADITION

By Kacey Wilkins

Living in The Woodlands, it’s easy to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds our daily commutes, whether in cars, on bikes or on foot. Nature keeps us healthy, and the tree canopy in our community provides cool shade and verdant color to brighten our days. Trees also reduce air pollution, absorb and store carbon dioxide, reduce storm water runoff and cool nearby buildings and homes.

Each year, in partnership with The Woodlands Development Corporation and in celebration of Arbor Day, more than 3,000 seedlings are planted to sustain

this natural amenity. On Saturday, February 10, 2018, from 8 a.m. until noon in Creekside Village, residents can take part in this fun, family-friendly activity at the annual Village Tree Planting, scheduled at the corner of Red Barn Way and West New Harmony Trail, in Creekside Village.

Volunteers range from young children to retirees. Over the course of the morning, volunteers will help with digging, spreading soil, planting the seedlings and watering. Interested parties will be able to sign up online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment.

Plan to join your neighbors and friends on Saturday, February 10, 2018, to plant a tree and build our vibrant forest.

Photos by Megan Jamieson

Allen Selmer, urban arborist, helps volunteers plan next steps.

The Village Tree Planting is a fun event for the entire family.

Voted

Plan Ahead for an Emergency with Smart911

By Andrea Wilson, Public Education

In2016, Montgomery County and its partners introduced a free service to plan for an emergency: Smart911. The recent flooding from Hurricane Harvey reminds us why it is important to prepare for dangerous conditions.

Smart911, a national public safety service, allows individuals and families to create an online safety profile which includes critical information for first responders such as names, home address, medical notes, disabilities, emergency contacts and even descriptions of pets. When 9-1-1 is dialed from any phone number registered to the profiles, the information is shown to dispatchers who can relay addresses and current information to first responders in the field. A safety profile can be created by going to www.mc911.org.

Citizens can opt in to receive emergency alerts and notifications

through Alert MCTX powered by Smart911. Alert MCTX is the official emergency notification system used by Montgomery County 9-1-1 to communicate with residents during emergencies. Alerts are free via text message, email, voice message or social media.

In the Village of Creekside Park, Greater Harris County 9-1-1 offers a similar program. To sign up, families will need to complete two registrations via www.911.org to create a profile and receive emergency notifications. Smart911 is also available to the area served by The Woodlands Fire Department. Registration for services from both counties is strongly encouraged.

“Residents of The Woodlands Township are concerned when it comes to their family’s health and safety,” said Andrea Wilson, Public Education Coordinator for Montgomery County 9-1-1.

“Smart911 saves critical time in an emergency and has proven to save lives nationwide. The additional information provided in a Smart911 Safety Profile enables us to know exactly where we are going and who we are looking for in a house fire or at the scene of a vehicle accident. Those details can help us respond faster and more efficiently.”

For more information about safety profiles and emergency alerts, please contact Andrea Wilson at Montgomery County 9-1-1 at 936-523-5911 or Sonya Clauson at Greater Harris County 9-1-1 at 281-949-5509.

Smart911, a national public safety service, allows individuals and families to create an online safety profile which includes critical information for first responders. Take advantage of this valuable tool and sign up today!

Coordinator, Montgomery County 9-1-1 and National Emergency Number Association (NENA) president

www.arborcarehouston.com

www.teethforkidz.com

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. 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 stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2018. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township. www.HoustonBusinessInsurance.com

By Amber Barnes

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Sponsor Upcoming Events with The Woodlands Township!

From seasonal concert series and community festivals to The Woodlands Township’s Signature Races, the Township Parks and Recreation Department will produce a variety of premier events in 2018.

Showcase your business and reach thousands with this unique opportunity to promote your brand! Varying levels of sponsorship within the events offer companies the ability to engage the community through an onsite event presence (booth space and signage), advertising entitlements and much more.

Sponsorships are available for several events, including the Waterway Nights and Rock the Row concert series, Arts in the Park, The Woodlands Township’s Signature Races, the Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza, Memorial Day and Labor Day Festivals, Trick or Treat Trail, Lighting of the Doves and numerous other programs and events.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities with The Woodlands Township’s festivals and events, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or email specialevents@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Showcase your business this year by sponsoring events produced by The Woodlands Township! Activities range from concerts to races and reach consumers of many ages and interests!

Photos by Derrick Bryant (running and fireworks) and Mauricio Ramirez (concert)