February 2012

Texas Children’s Hospital is the only hospital in Texas named on the U.S .News & World Repor t’s “Honor Roll” honoring the top 11 pediatric hospitals in the countr y. We’re proud to be your first choice and the right choice , right here , for your child.

Texas Children’s Health Centers along with Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates offer your family convenient access to exper t pediatricians as well as subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic ser vices. In addition, Texas Children’s Maternal Fetal Medicine brings specialized care for your high-risk pregnancy right to your neighborhood.

Texas Children’s Health Center – The Woodlands

17198 St Luke’s Way

Medical Ar ts Ctr. I, Ste . 300

The Woodlands, TX 77384 936-321-0808

Texas Children’s Maternal Fetal Medicine – The Woodlands 17198 St Luke’s Way

Medical Ar ts Ctr. I, Ste . 630

The Woodlands, TX 77384 936-321-1600

Conroe Pediatric Associates

404 River Pointe Dr , Ste 100 Conroe,TX 77304 936-756-8108

Sterling Ridge Pediatrics

6707 Sterling Ridge Dr , Ste A The Woodlands, TX 77382 281-296-2656

TCPA – Medical Plaza

1011 Medical Plaza Dr , Ste 220

The Woodlands, TX 77380 281-296-9119

Woodlands Pediatric Associates

4545 Research Forest Dr , Ste.A

The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-367-5100

3 We’ve Moved

6 elections for Village associations and Residential design Review Committees

8 Community election signage Information

9 the Woodlands township Board of Directors election

2 2012 Waterway event schedule

3 the Waterway Cruisers

4 enhanced Curbside services go operational

20 The Woodlands governance: Register Now for Public Forums

2 the Woodlands Marathon

22 Jump Into spring Gardening

23 touch-a-truck

24 register Now for the earth Day Greenup

25 Did You Catch these Crime Prevention tips?

26 Walk in the Woods: Keeping a Place for Nature in the Firewise Landscape

28 2012 Camp ter-ra-Mont

30 Beyond the Box

30 In the spotlight: Teen Talent Show

MoNthlY

6 Calendar of events

8 the Woodlands Village News

on the Cover

the February cover features the Woodlands township’s new location at 2801 technology Forest Boulevard, 77381. Consolidating operations from the previous township service Center, Board Chambers and law enforcement/ Neighborhood services annex, the newly named town hall makes it easier for constituents to have access to most township departments in one building. Community elections will take place here this month. see pages 6 and 7 for more information. two additional township offices remain open: the Parks, recreation and environmental services office, located at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, 77381, and the Woodlands township recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive, 77381.

· Vacation Home Rentals

· Family Beach Community

· Manicured Beach

· Saltwater Infinity Pool

· Daily Beach Chair Rentals

· Bike Rentals

· Screen on the Green

· Town Center Concerts

· Bay and Deep Sea Fishing

· Lisabellas Bistro&Bar serving

3 meals a day & To-Go Picnic Baskets for the Beach and Pool

· Arnold Palmer Golf Course (2-miles away)

· Weddings

Enjoy the surroundings of Cinnamon Shore... where a Simpler Way of Life is our motto!

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 main line

All Offices and Departments 28-20-3800

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 281-210-3800

Recreation Center

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

oTher service providers

The Woodlands Joint Powers agency (Water) 281-367-1271

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

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

to better serve The Woodlands residents.

The Woodlands Township Service Center, Board Chambers and Law Enforcement/Neighborhood Services Annex have all moved to one location:

The Woodlands Township Town Hall. Township phone numbers, e-mail addresses and the Web site address are the same.

• Board of Directors Meetings

• General Manager’s Office

• Legislative Affairs

• Law Enforcement/Public Safety Services

• Neighborhood Services/Woodlands Watch

• Covenant Administration

• Home Improvement Applications

• Residential Design Review Committees

• Development Standards Committee

• Finance and Accounting

• Information Technology

• Human Resources

• Parks and Recreation Administration

• Parks and Recreation Development

• Facility and Sportsfield Reservations

• Records

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd

The Woodlands, Texas 77381

• Community Relations

• Convention & Visitors Bureau

Nelda Blair

Don

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 assistant editor elena Smith

Copy editor Laura Garvey editorial assistant Terri Jefferies

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, 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 Township 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.

The Woo D l A n D s Co MM uni T y

for Village Associations and Residential Design Review Committees Take Place This Month

each year, elections are held for more than 100 volunteer leadership positions within our community. Volunteers are critical to the Woodlands; thousands of volunteer hours are necessary to carry out the governance of our community. elections are held in February for the Residential Design Review Committees (RDRCs) and the Village Associations. the Woodlands township Board of Directors election follows a different process and is held in May.

Residential Design Review Committee

the majority of properties in the Woodlands township are encumbered with either the Woodlands Community association Covenants or the Woodlands association Covenants (both herein referred to as the Covenants). In 2010, these community associations transferred responsibility for covenant administration to the township as part of the governance transition, and the Covenants continue to be encumbered on property throughout the Woodlands. as prescribed by the Covenants, five-member resident-elected committees serve to facilitate property improvements of their peers. elected to one-year terms, residents dedicate several hours each month to review the applications submitted by their neighbors for improvements to their properties. residents interested in ensuring that design standards are maintained in the Woodlands may be interested in filing for residential Design review Committee candidacy in their village.

the following residential Design review Committee positions are up for election in February 2012: all villages

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

Village Associations

each of the villages has an association that facilitates activities specific to their village. each village will have officer positions and/or area (neighborhood) representative positions open for the 2012 election. While officer duties may vary by position and/or specific village (refer to each village’s bylaws at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov), all villages seek enthusiastic residents looking to volunteer their service and leadership for their closest Woodlands neighbors.

the following village association positions are up for election in February 2012:

Grogan’s Mill village association

• eight at-large area representatives (two-year terms)

panther creek village association

• President (two-year term)

• treasurer (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

• Vice President (two-year term)

• treasurer (two-year term)

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

alden Bridge village association

• Nine at-large area representatives (two-year terms)

college park village association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• treasurer (two-year term)

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

sterling ridge village association

• seven at-large Village Directors (two-year terms)

creekside park village association

• Vice President (two-year term)

• treasurer (two-year term)

• events Chair (one-year term)

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

Plan To

all voting for the residential Design review Committees and Village associations will take place at the Woodlands township town hall, located at 2801 technology Forest Blvd.

convenience voting:

Monday, February 13, through Friday, February 17, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. election day: saturday, February 18, 2012, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Woodlands Township Service Center, Board Chambers and Law Enforcement/Neighborhood Services Annex have all moved to one location. Township phone numbers, e-mail addresses and the Web site address are the same.

• Board of Directors Meetings

• General Manager’s Office

• Legislative Affairs

• Law Enforcement/Public Safety Se

• Neighborhood Services/Woodlan

• Covenant Administration

• Home Improvement Applications

• Residential Design Review Committees

• Development Standards Committee

• Finance and Accounting

• Information Technology

• Human Resources

• Parks and Recreation Administra

• Parks and Recreation Developme

• Facility and Sportsfield Reserva

• Records

• Community Relations

• Convention & Visitors Bureau

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, 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 to 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 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 (including the March primary elections) or by any political subdivision of the state (including the May 2012 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. 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 Woodlands township at 281-210-3973.

Positions available

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township board of Directors will be elected in the May 2012 election, designated as positions 1, 2, 3, 4.

Candidates may file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions between February 11, 2012 and the close of business at 5 p.m. on March 5, 2012. The deadline for filing a declaration of a write-in candidacy is also 5 p.m. on March 5, 2012. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet.

THE WOODLANDS MARATHON

MAKING A COMEBACK!

Eighteen years ago, event organizers had discontinued The Woodlands Marathon because of logistics and financial support, that will come to an end on March 3, 2012. Event producer Launch Multisport and The Woodlands Marathon Management have set that date to resurrect the race in a community that currently hosts such events as; CB&I Tri The Woodlands, 10 For Texas, GE Run Thru The Woods and Ironman Texas. The original marathon ran from 1979 to 1993 and many long-time residents still hold fond memories of the event.

Launch Multisport, based out of The Woodlands, has a primary goal of pro-

ducing this race and generating support for non profit organizations. The event will include a full marathon, half marathon, 5K run, marathon relay, 2K fun run/walk and a health and fitness expo. A $20,000 prize purse will be offered and Launch Multisport has earmarked $40,000 for non profit organizations. The course is USATF certified, a Boston Qualifier and is comprised of two spectator and runner friendly 13.1-mile loops. Flat and fast, the course will have a water stop every mile and half, and will start and finish in The Woodlands Town Center.

Race organizers will limit registration to the first 6,000 registered for all events and everyone that crosses the finish line

will receive a customary medal for their accomplishments. Each finisher in the marathon, half and relay will receive finisher shirts courtesy of Fleet Feet Sports and ASICS. Runners will have an opportunity to raise additional funds for non profits through the Launch Challenge program. This allows participants to run for one of the numerous charities selected by title sponsors and the organizers. Just north of Houston, The Woodlands is no stranger to hosting premier racing events and the marathon is the perfect addition to the race calendar.

To register for the event, the Launch Challenge and to volunteer, please visit TheWoodlandsMarathon.com

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Residential Traffic Notification

The outside lane of the following streets will be closed to automobile traffic from 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to accommodate runners. Vehicular traffic may experience some delays in their commute during this time frame.

Lake Robbins Drive: eastbound, Grogan’s Mill Road to Woodloch Forest Drive (estimated opening 1:30 p.m.) 2012

Event Sponsors

202 WaTeRWay eV ent sC he D ule*

looking for something fun to do this year? here is a list of live music, movies and entertainment happening all year long in the Woodlands.

live at night (Spring Series)

• dates: March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2012

• Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

• location: Waterway square

• live music series every saturday in March from 6 to 8 p.m.

movie night

• dates: saturdays, april 21, 28 and May 5, 12, 2012

• spring Times: 8 to 10 p.m.

• location: Waterway square

• Join us this spring for family oriented movies under the stars.

memorial day Weekend event

• dates: saturday, May 26 and sunday, May 27, 2012

• Times: 6 to 9 p.m. – Fireworks* scheduled at 8:55 p.m. both nights!

• location: Waterway square

• enjoy vendors, live music, strolling entertainers and more each evening from 6 to 9 p.m. with fireworks scheduled each night at 8:55 p.m. (weather permitting).

Waterway nights

• dates: June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2012

• Times: 6 to 8 p.m.

• location: Waterway square

• live music and strolling entertainers from 6 to 8 p.m. every saturday this June.

labor day Weekend event

• dates: saturday, september 1 and sunday, september 2, 2012

• Times: 6 to 9 p.m. – Fireworks* scheduled at 8:55 pm both nights!

• location: Waterway square

• enjoy vendors, live music, strolling entertainers and more each evening from 6 to 9 p.m. with fireworks scheduled each night at 8:55 p.m. (weather permitting).

live at night (Fall Series)

• dates: saturdays, september 15, 22, 29 and october 6, 13, 2012

• Time: 6 to 8 p.m.

• location: Waterway square

• live music series this fall from 6 to 8 p.m.

Trick or Treat Trail

• date: sunday, october 28, 2012

• Time: 3 to 6 p.m.

• location: town Green Park

• Vendors, children’s activities, entertainment and more!

Caroling on the square

• dates: saturdays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2012

• Times: 6 to 8 p.m.

• location: Waterway square

• holiday Carolers from 6 to 8 p.m.

*For up-to-date information, maps and performer schedule, please visit www.VisitTheWoodlands.com.

Enjoy newly renovated Waterway Cruisers every weekend in the new year plus special events and holidays on The Woodlands Waterway.

A public day pass with unlimited rides on the Waterway Cruisers is $5.

Youth, seniors and the disabled pay half fare. Tickets can be purchased upon boarding.

Effective 1/1/12

Friday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Waterway Cruisers are available to board at each stop every 45-60 minutes.

Last Round Trip leaves the mall one hour before closing.

Enhanced Curbside Services Go Operational

February 1, 2012, marks the date that enhanced solid waste and recycling services provided by Waste Management go fully operational, saving the community almost one million dollars on contracted services. Maximizing recycling and compostability of yard trimmings delivered the financial reward.

If you have any questions, please contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800.

The Plan

• once per week fully automated curbside trash collection utilizing a 96-gallon cart with green lid.

• once per week automated collection of recyclables utilizing a 96-gallon cart with yellow lid.

• once per week manual collection of yard trimmings.

• all collections occur on same day between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Trash Collection

• Must use wheeled cart provided by Waste Management.

• Place trash cart at curb with handles facing house and four feet from other items.

• Container lid must close completely.

• excess trash must be bagged and tagged with pink tags available at the Woodlands township and local grocery stores for $1.75 each.

• each bag of excess trash must not exceed 40 pounds.

• No household hazardous waste.

bulky or heavy Trash

• Pickup provided at no additional cost.

• Call Waste Management at 1-800-800-5804 or e-mail southtxcallcenter@wm.com at least two working days prior to your regular service day to arrange pickup.

• appliances, furniture and other large household items too large to fit in 96-gallon trash cart if it were empty.

• Carpet (four-foot bundles, limit two).

• refrigerators, freezers and aC units must be certified Freon-free.

• No construction debris, concrete, bricks, roofing, vehicles or parts, household waste or yard trimmings.

single-stream Recycling

use the new 96-gallon recycling cart with the yellow lid to place all your standard recyclables together, no sorting or bagging required. Please rinse cans, bottles and containers. only clean paper products are recyclable.

• aseptic containers, dairy and juice cartons

• Glass bottles and jars – Clear, brown and green

Photo by Lynne a ldrich

• rigid plastic bottles and containers – Codes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 – remove lids before recycling

– No plastic bags

• Corrugated cardboard and paperboard, cereal boxes and tubes

– Please flatten

– No food-stained products

• Paper

– Books, phone books, catalogs and magazines

– Newspapers, include slicks, remove plastic sleeves

– office and school paper

– Junk mail

– Brown paper bags

• aluminum cans and foil

• tin or steel cans

yard Trimmings Collection

• Grass clippings, leaves and prunings

– Must be bagged in compostable bags or containerized

– Must weigh no more than 40 pounds

– No plastic bags

• Branches, tree limbs and trimmings

– No larger than four inches in diameter

– No longer than four feet – tied in bundles no higher than four feet in height

– Weigh no more than 40 pounds

• Place all items at curb by 7 a.m. at least four feet away from the 96-gallon carts.

Photo by Lucinda Valdes

february

Wednesday, February 

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, February 2

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, February 3

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 4

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

FREE Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

11 a.m. to noon

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Tuesday, February 

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, February 8

Law Enforcement Advisory Council Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, February 9

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture

Natural Firewise Landscaping

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

McCullough Junior High School

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3900

saturday, February 

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

Learn to Grow Your Own Vegetables

Free Vegetable Gardening Class

Tom Leroy, Texas agrilife extension 2801 Technology Forest boulevard 9 a.m. to noon

To register, call 281-210-3900.

Daddy - Daughter Dinner Dance

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.

advance registration required. For more information, please call 281-210-3950.

monday, February 3-

Community Elections Convenience Voting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest boulevard 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, February 4

Heartsaver CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Wednesday, February 5

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, February 6

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Workshop

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

7:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, February 

Bloodborne Pathogens Class emergency Training Center

9 to 11 a.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

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 8

Election Day in The Woodlands

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR Class emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

First Aid Class emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

monday, February 20

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting emergency Training Center

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, February 2

Going Green Lecture

“Beyond the Box”

Speaker: Dan Phillips, The Phoenix Commotion rico’s Grill, 314 Sawdust road

Networking: 6 p.m., Talk: 7 p.m.

www.TheWoodlandsGreeN.org

See page 30 for more information.

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

Wednesday, February 22

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, February 23

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, February 25

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Gardening 101

2801 Technology Forest boulevard

9 a.m. to noon

Free class, registration required. To register, please call 281-210-3900.

monday, February 2

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting Mitchell Library, 8125 ashlane Way

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Garbage collection

Tuesday, February 28

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext 1731.

Cochran’s Crossing

Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest boulevard 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

upcoming events:

Friday, march 2

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, march 3

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

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 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

www.metroministorage.net

All

Villages RemembeR to Vote in the Woodlands Village Associations and Residential Design Review Committees election. see page 6 for details.

Alden Bridge

It’s time to think about the next school year already! If you or someone you know will begin higher education in 2012, 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 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.

Your voice counts in our village association elections! alden Bridge will elect nine at-large area representatives for two-year terms, plus five residential Design review Committee members for one-year terms. Convenience voting is available February 13-17, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the town hall, 2801 technology Forest Boulevard. election Day is saturday, February 18, 2012, and polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., also at the town hall.

this month’s residents meeting will be held on tuesday, February 14, 2012, at 7 p.m. at the town hall, 2801 technology Forest Boulevard. our special guest speaker will be Dr. ann snyder, President and Ceo of Interfaith. all alden Bridge residents are welcome – please join us!

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

You’ll find all the election nitty gritty elsewhere in this issue. our one and only purpose here is to beg, implore, shame or coerce – whatever it takes – to get you to the polls. If we’re successful you’ll be there to vote for Cochran’s Crossing Village association and residential Design review Committee candidates who seek office for the sole purpose of serving you, the residents of Cochran’s Crossing. that’s reason enough to vote, but if further incentive is needed, try this: all voting this year takes place at the town hall, 2801 technology Forest Blvd. that, of course, makes it convenient to cast your vote and see this great newly opened township facility in one rewarding visit!

view candidate slates

Because of the early publishing date, final Cochran’s Crossing Village association and residential Design review Committee candidate postings were unavailable for this magazine. to view them now, go to www.cochranscrossing.com

Submitted by Bill Mara

Grogan’s Mill

the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market is now open year-round in the Grogan’s Mill shopping Center, operating every saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon. For more information on vendors and goods, please visit the Grogan’s Mill Village association Web site at www.grogansmillvillage.com. the same Web site provides full information and an application for becoming a vendor at the market. While there, you can also subscribe to the weekly Farmer’s Market Newsletter. the online vendor application also provides instructions for the home gardeners who wish to sell their surplus produce in our Gardener’s Corner.

the Woodlands township has distributed new 96-gallon recycle bins to its residents. the kinds of recyclables that can be handled have also expanded. see page 14 for details. Don’t forget that you can deposit the hard plastic lids (#7) and corks at the Farmer’s Market each saturday.

saturday, February 18, 2012 is election Day for people running for the Grogan’s Mill Village association Board of Directors and the residential Design review Committee. Please plan to vote in support of your community volunteer leaders. these folks work hard to improve life and conditions in your village. all voting will take place at the Woodlands township’s town hall, located at 2801 technology Forest Blvd. More information is available on the township’s Web site and on page 6.

the Grogan’s Mill Village association Board will be holding our annual retreat in early March to determine our projects and budget for the 2012/2013 fiscal year. Please visit our village Web site (above) for information on the specific date and location. residents are encouraged to attend this meeting or send suggestions in advance to the village board that you would like to have considered at the meeting.

With warmer weather just a month away, it is not too late to participate in an environmentally friendly way to dispose of fall and winter leaves. the last free composting class will be conducted on saturday, March, 3, 11 a.m. to noon. It will be held at 8203 Millennium Forest Dr., just west of the Woodlands high school, south of research Forest Drive. after the class, you may purchase a composting bin at far less than you would pay in a retail store. For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Submitted by

Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

e ven T s in you R nei G h B orhood

Indian Springs

If you love your community, go vote!

happy Valentine’s Day to all residents. Please consider taking the time to vote for your Indian springs Village association representatives. these are your neighbors who represent you and your community for local issues.

the Indian springs Village association Board would like to thank departing members oscar lui – treasurer, Carolyn Dalglish – Vice-President, and Jose Valladeres – area representative, for their service to Indian springs Village association over the past several years.

the following positions are up for election in February 2012 for Indian springs:

• Vice President (two-year term)

• treasurer (two-year term)

• Five at-large area representatives (two-year term)

Please see the schedule below for location, dates and times for voting:

February 13 – 17, 2012

convenience (early) voting

the Woodlands township

2801 technology Forest Blvd. (New location)

Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

February 18, 2012 election day

the Woodlands township 2801 technology Forest Blvd. (New location) 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

posting of election results

the residential Design review Committee and Village association election results will be posted outside the Woodlands township, 2801 technology Forest Blvd., after the results have been tabulated and verified. to view the election results online, go to the Woodlands township Web site, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. You can also check the Indian springs Village association Web site at www.indianspringsvillage.com for the

names of our new Board members once the results have been officially posted. For more information, please contact the Woodlands township at 281-210-3800.

Submitted by Carolyn Dalglish

Panther Creek

the Panther Creek Village association is the non-profit organization that serves as an advocate for the residents of Panther Creek. Members of the Panther Creek Village association’s elected governing board are elected by Panther Creek residents in a community election. the board is made up of four officers and 12 area representatives. the term for all is two years. half of these positions are up for election every year. the elections are generally held in February. the President and secretary positions and six area representatives are up for election this year.

there will be early voting opportunity from Monday, February 13, to Friday, February 17, 2012, with voting hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. election Day will be held on saturday, February 18, 2012, with voting hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. all voting will take place at the new town hall, located at 2801 technology Forest Blvd.

Panther Creek has more than 12,000 residents and approximately 3,600 homes but the turnout for elections is almost always surprisingly small. the village area representatives are here to serve as advocates for the community. Please take an interest in your community and vote for the representatives that you think will be your best advocates.

after the election, please plan to attend at least one of the Panther Creek Village association meetings during the year. the meetings are held on the second thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the township office, 2801 technology Forest Blvd. everyone is welcome.

Submitted by Merle Causey

a lden Brid G e

The alden bridge Village association (abVa) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3886 or Village association President Steve Leakey at 281-419-3468.

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, 2801 Technology Forest blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.cochranscrossing.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village association President Stuart Schroeder at 936-273-0419.

c olle G e park

The College Park Village association (CPVa) usually 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 Ted Stanley at 936-321-5996.

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 or Village association President Nancy Decker Lent at 617-721-6939.

Gro G an’s Mill

The Grogan’s Mill Village association (GMVa) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest blvd. Please join us! Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village association President Deborah Sargeant at 281-292-5341.

i ndian s prin G s

The Indian Springs Village association (ISVa) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest blvd. Please join us! Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village association President amy Lecocq at 281-298-1476.

pan T her c reek

The Panther Creek Village association (PCVa) usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest blvd. Please join us! Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3886 or Village association President everett Ison at 281-298-9524.

sT

erlin G r id G e

The Sterling ridge Village association (SrVa) usually 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 281-210-5808 or Village association President Phillip Givens at 281-419-9331.

The WoodlaNds GoveRNaNce

Register Now for Public Forums

the Woodlands township Board of Directors has been working through a process to proactively examine whether the current governance structure is best suited for the community now and into the future, or whether changes need to be made. over the course of the last several months, the project team has been preparing a “gap analysis,” an evaluation of the effectiveness of existing service delivery and the potential future need for expanded and/or new services and governing tools as the community evolves. additionally, a preliminary financial analysis has been completed so residents and stakeholders can better understand the financial implications of future municipal incorporation.

regional Participation agreements (rPas), entered into with the Cities of houston and Conroe, prevent the annexation of the Woodlands and allow residents to determine their own future governance structure within the next 50 years. In 2007, voters overwhelmingly approved the change in governmental structure to become the Woodlands township, however, the rPas provide the opportunity to change the current governance structure, including the option to incorporate as a municipality after May 29, 2014.

the Board of Directors invites you to review the results of this analysis and to provide feedback on the future governance of the Woodlands

by attending one of the following Community Forums:

Thursday, March 29, 2012

7 to 9 p.m.

location confirmed at registration.

saturday, March 31, 2012

9 to 11 a.m.

location confirmed at registration.

to ensure a seat at one of these events, please register today by visiting the township’s Web site (www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov) or by contacting Kim Cogburn at 281-210-3800. Participants who cannot attend these events will have a chance in april to watch an informational video and provide feedback online.

You are invited to follow the process by visiting www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/governance and by following monthly briefings provided at the Board of Directors meetings.

Northwest Diagnostic Clinic

strong!

Tri Nguyen, M.D.

FAAD, FACMS, FACPh

Neil Farnsworth, M.D. FAAD

Tamar F. Brionez, M.D. CCD

Carmen Perez-Masuelli, M.D. FACP

Leslie Wilson, M.D. CCD

Joan Appleyard, M.D. Emily Hung, M.D.

m a RC h 3, 20  2

event producer launch Multisport and the Woodlands Marathon Management will host the Woodlands Marathon race on March 3, 2012. the event will include a full marathon, half marathon, 5K run, marathon relay, 2K fun run/walk and a health and fitness expo. a $20,000 prize purse will be offered, and launch Multisport has earmarked $40,000 for nonprofit organizations. the course is usatF certified, a Boston Qualifier and comprises two spectator- and runner-friendly 13.1-mile loops. the course will have a water stop every mile and a half, and will start and finish in the Woodlands town Center. race organizers have limited registration to the first 6,000 registered for all events, and everyone who crosses the finish line will receive a medal for their accomplishments. each finisher in the marathon, half and relay will receive a finisher shirt courtesy of Fleet Feet sports and asICs runners will have an opportunity to raise additional funds for nonprofits through the launch Challenge program. this allows participants to run for one of the numerous charities selected by title sponsors and the organizers. to register for the event, the launch Challenge and to volunteer, please visit theWoodlandsMarathon.com.

Jump Into

By Bob Dailey and lucinda Valdes

In February, a series of four free events will bring gardening enthusiasts and experts together in The Woodlands.

If you planted seeds last fall from The Woodlands Wildflower Festival, expect to find baby blue eyes (Nemophila phacelioides) blooming this month. This trailing wildflower is a charming addition to a vegetable garden or home landscape. In early spring, pollinators and other beneficial insects are attracted to its nectar and stick around to do battle with plant pests.

Residents can learn about soil science and how to recycle yard waste through the Backyard Composting classes. novices and veteran vegetable gardeners gain valuable knowledge about gardening techniques, vegetable varieties, and a plethora of other topics at the learn to Grow Your own Vegetables class. Finally, Gardening 101 focuses on all aspects of gardening, including water-wise landscaping featuring plants that do well in our environment and sound soil practices.

backyard Composting

saturday, February 4, 2012

saturday, March 3, 2012

11 a.m. to noon

8203 Millennium Forest Drive Free class, no registration required!

Compost is the easiest way to improve soil’s ability to hold moisture and manage yard trimmings at the same time. Learn to make it in your own backyard! Drawing for free bin at every class!

natural Firewise landscaping

thursday, February 9, 2012

7:30 p.m.

McCullough jr. high school

3800 s panther Creek Drive

Kelly Conrad bender, author and urban wildlife biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department based in bastrop, reveals how to create a place for nature in the firewise landscape. (See article on page 26)

learn to grow your own Vegetables

saturday, February 11, 2012

9 a.m. to noon

2801 technology Forest Boulevard

Free class, registration required!

Learn vegetable gardening from the ground up with Tom Leroy, Texas agrilife Horticulture extension agent. Discover the best vegetables and varieties for spring and summer gardens in our region. To register, please call 281-210-3900.

gardening 0

saturday, February 25, 2012

9 a.m. to noon

2801 technology Forest Boulevard

Free class, registration required!

Going beyond the basics, three speakers reveal water-wise methods for woodland landscapes. experts share their wit and wisdom in a three-hour program, providing a guide to create a more sustainable landscape. To register, please call 281-210-3900.

Photo by Linda Crum

Join the Woodlands township for big trucks, flashing lights, big wheels and loud noises at the free touch-a-truck event at the rob Fleming aquatic Center parking lot on saturday, February 25, 2012, from 9 to 11 a.m. this unique event provides a morning of fun for kids and adults alike to climb on trucks and heavy equipment, check under the hood and learn what makes them go!

In conjunction with touch-a-truck, the Woodlands township recreation Center will host a Program extravaganza where you can learn about the many different programs that are offered as well as meet the staff and instructors.

other activities include a “construction zone” of crafts and a Kids Choice award. the winning vehicle will be presented with a plaque for this honor. Bring your cameras, curiosity and join us for a morning full of fun at touch-a-truck! www.paddingtonbritishschool.com

Earth Day

GrEEnUp

By lucinda Valdes

Our Great American Cleanup Event!

Joining

Keep Texas Beautiful and communities across the nation in the Great American Cleanup, the Woodlands will target litter on pathways, along waterways and in greenbelts during the earth Day Greenup on saturday, March 31, 2012.

In 2011, more than 90,000 volunteers in 912 communities across texas took part in the cleanup effort that collected six million pounds of litter and debris. “the response from our own community was stellar last year!” said Kathie herrick, adopt-a-Path Coordinator for the Woodlands township. “We are gearing up for an even bigger event this year.”

The Dirt on Litter

• The presence of litter in a community takes a toll on quality of life, property values and housing prices.

• More than 51 billion pieces of litter land on u.S. roadways each year. That’s 6,729 items per mile.

• Litter cleanup costs the u.S. almost $11.5 billion annually, with businesses picking up $9.1 billion of that tab.

-- Great american Cleanup Manual

Volunteers are already signing up to take part in the cleanup and celebration that will follow. Pre-registration is encouraged, particularly for groups. Participants will receive gloves, bags, instructions and an assigned pick-up area. a limited number of trash grabbers will be available to groups that pre-register.

all are invited to the post pick-up party and celebration with food, music and booths from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Northshore Park. Pick-up volunteers will be the honored guests, receiving free pizza and drinks, along with an event t-shirt. the general public may purchase pizza and drinks.

“our community and the environment are the biggest winners,” Mrs. herrick said. “even the smallest litter–like cigarette butts and candy wrappers–impacts the aesthetics of our community and harms wildlife.”

register for the earth Day Greenup 2012 now online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ greenup. For more information, please call 281-210-3900.

the Woodlands earth Day Greenup is coordinated by the Woodlands township environmental services Department with support from the Woodlands G.r e e.N., the Woodlands Development Company, Waste Management, americas styrenics, h-e-B and Woodlands Joint Powers agency.

Did You Catch These Crime Prevention Tips?

By Marian leck

the Woodlands Watch, neighborhood watch program, has been promoting

“a sense of community…a safe community through education and partnerships” since 1984. are you a part of the team?

It’s not too late to make a resolution in 2012 to take steps to be part of the team and to learn how to be “safe at home:”

• Join the Woodlands Watch. Be a part of our public safety-community partnership by learning tips to help you be “safe at home” or by volunteering as a Watch Coordinator in your neighborhood.

• Get to know your neighbors. Neighbor knowing neighbor is the first step in crime prevention.

• always use locking devices on your home, vehicle and bicycle.

• set your alarm, if you have one.

• Don’t leave items (i.e. garage door opener, cell phone, briefcase, purse,

or computer) in view in your vehicle. remove them, or put them out of sight!

• Don’t open your door to strangers!

• report any unusual sights or sounds in your neighborhood to your local law enforcement office when you hear or see anything suspicious. Call 9-1-1 in an emergency, or contact the Montgomery County sheriff’s office at 936-442-7797 or harris County Constable’s office Precinct #4 at 281-376-3472 (for the Village of Creekside Park).

• Contact your local law enforcement to start a Vacation Watch when you will be away.

• review safety tips with your children. to join the Woodlands Watch team, contact the Woodlands township, Neighborhood services Department at neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or 281-210-3800.

Become part of the team and to learn how to be “Safe at Home” with the Township’s Woodlands Watch staff (front row, l to r) Administrative Assistant II Kristin Pternitis, Program Specialist

Veronica Hernandez-Mena, Program Specialist

Peggy Krysiak, (back row, l to r) Director of Law Enforcement Marian Leck, Program Specialist

Sue Martin, Program Specialist Betsy Wagner, Neighborhood Services Coordinator Holly Steinke and Program Specialist Susan Golden.

Photo by Laura Garvey

Keeping a place for nature in the

thursday, february 9, 2012 7:30

on thursday, February 9, 2012, at 7:30 p.m., Walk in the Woods Nature lecture presents Natural Firewise Landscaping with Kelly Conrad Bender, urban wildlife biologist with texas Parks and Wildlife Department (tPWD) based in Bastrop.

Ms. Bender is the well-known author of Texas Wildscapes–Gardening for Wildlife, the virtual handbook for habitat gardening in our state. Beyond birdhouses and birdfeeders, wildscaping extols the value of drought-resistant native plants to provide food and shelter for birds, butterflies and other wildlife. touched personally by the wildfire in Bastrop this past summer, Ms. Bender brings her extensive knowledge and experience to bear in an inspiring program. “there is still a place for nature in a firewise landscape,” notes the wildlife biologist. a multi-agency partnership that includes tPWD and texas Forest service, the Firewise Program involves

homeowners and entire communities in the effort to protect people, property and natural resources from the risk of wildfire. Ms. Bender shares the steps for evaluating vulnerabilities and strategies to develop a plan. Discover plants that should be thinned from the landscape in favor of firewise selections that maintain moisture. learn about structuring and grouping plants, maintenance tips, firebreaks and how to use rocks and boulders as fire retardants.

enjoy an evening with Kelly Conrad Bender, hosted in the l.G.I. lecture hall at McCullough Jr. high school, 3800 south Panther Creek Drive. Copies of her publication, Texas Wildscapes, will be available for purchase. a free program of the Woodlands township, Walk in the Woods Nature lecture series is sponsored by Waste Management, the Woodlands G.r e e.N. and hilton Garden Inn. For more information, please call the Woodlands township at 281-210-3800.

Photo by a nita Wren

Kelly Conrad Bender, developer of the Texas Wildscapes program reveals how to incorporate firewise principles into woodland landscapes while keeping a place for nature.

WalK in the Woods nature lecture

p.m.

By lucinda Valdes

Photo by Dawn Pando

By shaun hebert

haveyou ever wanted to experience all of the joys of camping without the hassle? the Woodlands township recreation Center is hosting the fifth annual Camp ter-ra-Mont on saturday, March 24, and sunday, March 25, 2012. this great family event allows area residents to enjoy an evening of camping, fun and community. there will be traditional camping favorites and activities for people of all ages. the annual family toboggan-building and race will be back again this year and has been a traditional family favorite each year. Not a toboggan-building pro? that is okay as all supplies and instructions are provided during the event.

Not only are all of the games and crafts included, the event staff also takes care of dinner and breakfast, and reI will be on site leading a camp cooking demonstration for the adults and a leave No trace program for the kids. If you have any questions about this great event, please contact shaun hebert at the Woodlands township recreation Center at 281-210-3955 or shebert@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. advance registration is required.

Beyond the Box

Dan Phillips is an engaging, entertaining, enthusiastic speaker who has been featured internationally, from The New York Times and O magazine to the Discovery Channel and hGtV. he will share his perspectives on building “beyond the box” in the Woodlands on tuesday, February 21, 2012. his presentation, sponsored by the Woodlands G.r.e.e.N, the u.s.G.B.C. Piney Woods chapter, and Northwoods Green, is at 7 p.m., tuesday, February 21, 2012, at rico’s Grill on sawdust road in the Woodlands.

Phillips has said he believes it is in everyone’s DNa to want to be a builder, from playing with blocks, making a fort with a sheet over the dining table, and building tree houses. about 15 years ago, this selftaught carpenter, electrician and plumber decided to pursue that dream, launching Phoenix Commotion, a building initiative created to prove that constructing homes with recycled and salvaged materials has a viable place in the building industry. that was after a variety of careers, including working as an army intelligence officer, a college dance instructor, an antiques dealer and a syndicated cryptogram puzzle maker. Phillips’s eclectic background serves him well now, as 80 percent of the building materials are salvaged from other construction projects, hauled out of trash heaps, or just picked up from the side of the road. the trick, he says, is to put it all together in a disciplined, orderly design so it doesn’t look like trash. For more information, please visit www.theWoodlandsGreeN.org.

2012 Auditions

Dan Phillips of The Phoenix Commotion examines uses for a recycled chandelier.

www.aprettydoor.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. 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 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 © 2012. 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.

What do you want to do today?

Don’t waste a single moment!

Everything you need is just minutes away in The Woodlands. From a morning of shopping at Market Street to an afternoon on the links, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Texas’ most celebrated community.

New Homes iN mAY VALLeY Priced from tHe $190’s

May Valley in the Village of Sterling Ridge features new homes by D.R. Horton, Highland Homes, Lennar, M/I Homes, Trendmaker and Village Builders, priced from the $190’s - $550’s. A cluster of neighborhoods surrounds nine-acre May Valley Park, where a “Pioneer-themed” sprayground, pavilion, playfield, playgrounds and lighted tennis and basketball courts provide plenty of family fun. Highly-rated Magnolia ISD schools, shopping, dining and more parks are nearby. Everything you need for a happy family is right here in May Valley! Trendmaker