March 2012

Day GreenUp

fifth anniversary Muddy Trails

The Woodlands

Katy

Texas Medical Center

Sugar Land

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Bay Area

On the Cover

A coreopsis greets winter 2012 in this photo captured by Volunteer of the Year John Hibbs in late January. Even though The Woodlands experienced an extreme drought in 2011, this wildflower’s early debut lends anticipation to the annual show of wildflowers usually seen in late March. Please see the article on pages 6 through 8 for more information about outstanding volunteers in The Woodlands.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship

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

All Offices and Departments

28-20-3800

Fire department (non-emergency) 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

The Woodlands Township Dedicates Town Hall at “Meet the Township” Day

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

theWoodlands township recently hosted “Meet the township” Day at its new town Hall location at 2801 technology Forest Boulevard, 77381. More than 100 residents gathered for the building dedication and informational tours.

“the Woodlands township town Hall makes it easier for constituents to have access to most township departments in one building,” said township Chairman of the Board Bruce tough. “We are proud of our new facility, and are appreciative of all the hard work that went into its planning and refurbishing.”

the township’s town Hall is a 68,868-square-foot building with 131 offices and workstations, and 14 conference rooms and meeting rooms, consolidating operations from the previous township service Center, Board Chambers and Law enforcement/ neighborhood services annex.

continued on page 21

Information Technology William Pham, Township Assistant General

of Community Services John Powers, Township President/General Manager Don Norrell, Township Vice Chairman of the Board Lloyd Matthews, Township Board Treasurer Ed Robb, Township Board Director Nelda Luce Blair, Township Board Director Tom Campbell, Township Board Director Peggy S. Hausman, Township Board Secretary Claude Hunter, Township Chairman of the Board Bruce Tough and Diamond Construction Project Superintendent Jeff Moore.

Pictured above, left to right, Palermo Barr & Associates Project Manager Damon Palermo, Township Director of

Manager

Ed Robb

Claude Hunter

Don Norrell President and General Manager

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.

at Town Hall Meeting tribute to volunteers The Township Pays

TheWoodlands Township Board of Directors recently held a special town hall meeting and volunteer recognition at The Woodlands Township’s Town Hall. More than 100 people came to hear the presentations on the 2011 Township annual report with 2012 projections and recognition of volunteers. Four residents of The Woodlands were honored as Volunteers of the Year for their outstanding volunteerism to the Township.

John Hibbs was honored for outstanding volunteer work in Community Relations. Mr. Hibbs photographs scenes in The Woodlands and sends them to The Woodlands Township for use in The Woodlands Community Magazine. Through the years, his beautiful photos have been featured on a number of magazine covers.

Pat Shook was recognized for her outstanding volunteer work in Environmental Services. She has been a long-time dependable volunteer very committed to recycling. Thanks to Ms. Shook, Tangle Brush Villa became the first apartment complex in The Woodlands to have a successful recycling program.

ClancyDee Rasmituth was recognized for her outstanding volunteer work in Neighborhood Services, which she does by being a Woodlands Watch area coordinator for Tupelo Trail and a neighborhood coordinator for Indigo Bunting. Ms. Rasmituth has successfully coordinated many get-togethers with her neighbors, including a Good Neighbor Day with more than 80 people in attendance.

since its inception in 2005. She plays a vital role on the Council with her input and advice on many issues, including policies, procedures, marketing efforts, program initiatives, facility design and operations.

The Township also honored many volunteers who graciously donated their time in 2011 to help various Township functions, programs and events.

Marti Fox Meerscheidt was recognized for her outstanding volunteer work in Parks and Recreation. Ms. Meerscheidt has been a member of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Council

• The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Committee acts as liaison between CERT graduates and The Woodlands Fire Department. They help plan CERT classes, recruit new CERT members and participate in local events.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors honored four Volunteers of the Year at its Volunteer Recognition and Town Hall Meeting on January 25, 2012. From left, Chairman Bruce Tough, Ed Robb, John Hibbs (community relations volunteer), Marti Fox Meerscheidt (parks and recreation volunteer), Peggy S. Hausman, Pat Shook (environmental services volunteer), Claude Hunter, ClancyDee Rasmituth (neighborhood services volunteer), Lloyd Matthews, Tom Campbell and Nelda Luce Blair.

• The Development Standards Committee members are appointed by The Woodlands Township and The Woodlands Land Development Company. The committee is responsible for adopting rules and regulations regarding the administration, interpretation and enforcement of The Woodlands Covenants, Restrictions, Easements, Charges and Liens.

• The Law Enforcement Advisory Council members provide valuable input and serve as a public sounding board for programs involving law enforcement initiatives in The Woodlands Township.

• The Parks and Recreation Advisory Council members serve as a public sounding board for programs, activities, policies and new initiatives of the Parks and Recreation Department.

During the town hall meeting, The Woodlands Township President Don Norrell presented a look back at 2011, including economic conditions, new home sales and business development. Substantial accomplishments of the Township in 2011 included:

• A lower property tax rate

• Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas event

• Renovation of Township office facility at 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard

• Construction and donation agreement of Town Green Park veterans memorial

• Study of sports fields, parks and pools

• Completion of implementation of a single law enforcement district for The Woodlands

• Addition of a K9 Unit in The Woodlands District #6

• Law enforcement funding increase in 2012 budget

• Construction of Creekside Park and Indian Springs fire stations

• Increase in WFD budget for 2012 firefighters and dispatchers

• The Residential Design Review Committee members are communityelected representatives who review requests for improvements to residential properties in each village in order to protect the aesthetic character of the residential areas in The Woodlands. Each village has its own committee.

• The village associations are grassroots organizations that provide civic and social opportunities for residents. They are separate and independent of The Woodlands Township. Village association volunteers are community-elected and meet regularly to discuss community and village issues, gain village input and plan village programs and events.

• Appointed to their duties by the Township Board of Directors, The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Directors meets six times a year to position The Woodlands as a regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized tourist destination. They develop quality marketing programs and events to attract visitors and to stimulate economic development and growth.

• Appointed to their duties by the CVB Board of Directors, The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau Marketing Committee meets six times a year to address opportunities and strategies for producing and creating the CVB’s destination marketing programs and events.

Projections for 2012 include:

• Complete the financial analysis of the governance process and initiate the community involvement process

• Complete an agreement with the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for development of a permanent ice rink

• Develop recommendations and plans for increasing the number of sports and athletic fields available in The Woodlands

• Develop a drought management plan to improve boulevard watering to maintain high value trees during drought conditions

• Retain high quality public safety services in The Woodlands, monitoring community needs and adjusting as necessary

• Determine any potential need to request legislative changes for the 2013 Legislative Session

For more details, please visit the Township’s Web site, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, under About Us to view the Summary of 2011 Accomplishments and 2012 Projections.

2011 Recognized Volunteers of The Woodlands Township

CERT: THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM COMMITTEE

Glen Bernstein

Ed Commender

Bruce Cunningham

Scott Darby

Joe Hakkinen

Chad Jolley

DEVE LOPME NT STANDARDS COM M IT TE E

Deborah Sargeant, Chair

Robert Heineman, Vice Chair

Ken Anderson

Mike Bass

Brian Laing

Paul Lancaster

Rud Merriam

Chris Florack

Kim Hess

LAW ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL

Glen Bernstein

Boyd Burdett

Tom Campbell

Richard Derr

Anthony Fasone

Amy Lecocq

Daniel E. Lewis

David Packer

Kendrick Skipper

PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

Gail Carney

Merle Causey

Bruce Cunningham

Anthony Fasone

Claude Hunter

Dan Kolkhorst

Marti Fox Meerscheidt

Nick Norris

Steve Perr y

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEES

Alden Bridge

Arthur Bredehoft, Chair

Gregor y Bakalich

Robin Cassidy

Peggy Gartman

John Passero

Cochran’s Crossing

Clarence J. Wallace, Chair

James Goldmeyer, Vice Chair

Mark Bacon

Gerard Rapp

Steven Tidwell

College Park

Roger W. McDonald, Chair

Gail Carney, Vice Chair

Laura Dean

Wayne Mulkey

Eileen Sandburg

Creekside Park

Nancy Decker Lent, Chair

William Hall, Vice Chair

Jennifer Mares

Michael Ramsey

Susan Tedesco

VILLAGE ASSOCIATIONS

Alden Bridge

Steve Leakey, President

Michael Cannetti,Vice Pres

Darla Bell, Secretar y

Melanie Bush, Treasurer

Phillip Barker

Matt Bartholomew

Nasim Bell

John Brown

Chuck Hoffheiser

Michael (Barr y) Newman

Paul Oman

Laurie Ricks

Kendrick Skipper

Angela Speight

Ronny Taylor

Theresa Wagaman

Dale Wood

Adele Yung

Cochran’s Crossing

Stuart Schroeder, President

Marti Fox Meerscheidt, Vice President

Bill Mara, Secretar y

Jim Goldmeyer, Treasurer

Jeff Allen

Nancy Becker

Grogan’s Mill

Jorge Slater, Chair

Vince Fredrick, Vice Chair

Robbie Brundrett

Rex D. Campbell

Robert H. Leilich

Indian Springs

The Woodlands Community Assoc Cher yl Edmondson, Chair

Mar y Carl, Vice Chair

Steven Gallia

Brian Creighton

Brian Duelm

Julie Duelm

Charlie Fray

Mark Gjovik

Dave Jesiolowski

Cynthia Kessinger

Julie Miller

Jerr y Orebaugh

Steve Perr y

Lori Riley

Steven Tidwell

Clarence J. Wallace

College Park

Ted Stanley, President

Scott S Singletary, Vice Pres

Gail Carney, Secretar y

Steven A. Reinmund,Treas.

Glen Bernstein

Laura Dean

Larr y Faith

Tully French

Richard Johnson

Paul Martin

David Mulberr y

Ray Penton

Janet Reinmund

Carter Miller

Ruth Pinney

Randy Scott

Herman Weindel

George Van Horn

Clarence J. Wallace

Ken Schumann

Susan Tedesco

Eric Thomas

John Leftwich

Randy Scott

The Woodlands Association

Matt Mussalli, Chair

Richard Stromatt, Vice Chair

Shanna Davis

Ron Kostelny

Ken Schumann

Panther Creek

Daniel E. Lewis, Chair

Harr y Smart

Mike Thomson

Adele Yung

Barby R. Carroll

Kimber Lewis

Susan Pennock

Jay Mac Sanders

Sterling Ridge

M. Kimberli Vest, Chair

George Newman, Vice Chair

Jaydean Tullos

George Ushiroda

Doris Wootton

Creekside Park

Nancy Decker Lent, President

Michael Ramsey, Vice Pres

Michael P. Casey, Secretar y

Larr y Jadr ych, Treasurer

Julia Belforti, Events Chair

Nicole Coulton

Sally H. Epton

Emma Marrow

Kusuma Ritchey

Susan Tedesco

Grogan’s Mill

Deborah Sargeant, President

Dana Denton, Vice President

Pat Goodpastor, Secretar y

Robert Leilich, Treasurer

Matt Beasley

Sara Bissig

Tom Campbell

Bruce Cunningham

Virginia Dellinger

Jim Duke

Lachelle Gentr y

Franklin R. Palmer

Jennifer Robinson

George Van Horn

Chris Wren

THE WOODLANDS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Board of Directors

Nelda Luce Blair, President

Claude Hunter, Vice Chairman

Lloyd Matthews, Treasurer/Secretar y

Fred Domenick, Director

Karen Hoylman, Director

Kent Johnson, Director

Indian Springs

Amy Lecocq, President

Carolyn Dalglish, Vice President

Kelly Sharer, Secretar y Oscar Lui, Treasurer

Shanna Davis

Michael Luman

James Merritt

Erika Pratt

Terr y Reiszner

Jason Rivers

Kenneth Schumann

Richard Stromatt

Eric Thomas

Jose Valladares

Veronica Williams

Panther Creek

Everett Ison, President

Daniel E. Lewis, Vice President

Damon Palermo, Secretar y

Kimber Lewis, Treasurer

Barbara Beavis

Mar y Bootz

Barby Carroll

Geneva Carroll

Don Norrell, Director Marketing Committee

Nelda Luce Blair

Tink Horning Kent Johnson

Merle Causey

Jennifer Ferrara

Paul Gebolys

Rich Jakovac

Hartley Mackintosh

Jay Mac Sanders

Karen Stafford

Barbara St. Amand

Sterling Ridge

Phillip Givens, President

Anthony Fasone, Vice President

Mazen El Zarka, Secretar y

Mike Bass, Treasurer

Feyi Bassir

Stephanie Carlton

Gabriel Castillo

Charles Dressler

Bob Earl

Jim Holt

Jason Horn

Tabitha Lenox

Nick Norris

Stephen Chris Pappas

Kerri Steen-Chew

Eddie Valverde

Sue Young

Sheron Jones

Jill Liccioni

Susan Vreeland-Wendt

Board of d irectors e lection May 12, 2012

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 for one of the designated positions up to close of business at 5 p.m. on March 5, 2012. Last day for declaration of a write-in candidate is 5 p.m. on March 5, 2012. Please visit the township’s Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet.

Rele V an T d a T es

HAVE A BLAST AT THE

Earth Day GrEEnUp!

By Lucinda Valdes

ClEanup & CElEBratE

slated for saturday, March 31, 2012, the Woodlands earth Day Greenup once again brings the community together in a united effort to keep the Woodlands beautiful by targeting litter. “traveling down our street, litter often escapes our view,” according to Kathie Herrick, adopt-a-Path coordinator for the Woodlands township. “Last spring, nearly 800 volunteers picked up more than 38 cubic yards of trash during our Great american Cleanup event.”

Greenup 2012 invites you to take ownership of your space! enjoy the outdoors and meet neighbors by joining a pick-up team, bagging waste out of place along pathways, greenbelts and streams. Gloves, bags and maps will be provided during check-in at a designated park in each village.

Following the cleanup, the entire community is invited to celebrate with ecoexploration, food, fun and entertainment at northshore Park. Pick-up and event volunteers will enjoy free pizza and beverages; food tickets will be on sale to the general public. Free face painting and popular kids’ activities from the ecology Carnival make the day a family event. Hoop it up at the hoop dance demonstration led by yvonne Bohanon with Houston spin stars.

In a Greenup encore performance, Buck yeager Band will play “country music the way it should be.” Homegrown talent and rising star, Buck yeager plays across the country, opening for artists such as Django Walker, robert earl Keen, Jack Ingram, Bellamy Brothers, Bad Company, shake russell, Dana Cooper and Zona Jones.

a Great american Cleanup event, the Woodlands earth Day Greenup is coordinated by the Woodlands township and the Woodlands G.r e e n. with support from the Woodlands Development Company, Waste Management, americas styrenics, H-e-B, shred-all texas, Woodlands Joint Powers agency, Hilton Garden Inn, BIO Landscape, nature’s Way resources and Keep texas Beautiful. For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800.

Join the Earth Day GreenUp!

• Pre-register through March 23, 2012, at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/greenup. Limited number of T-shirts available!

• Check-in Saturday, March 31, 2012, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at one of eight locations.

- Alden Bridge: Alden Bridge Park

- Cochran’s Crossing: Shadowbend Park

- College Park: Harper’s Landing Park

- Creekside Park: Rob Fleming Park

- Grogan’s Mill: Tamarac Park

- Indian Springs: Falconwing Park

- Panther Creek: Ridgewood Park

- Sterling Ridge: Cranebrook Park

• greenup 9 a.m. to noon

• Celebrate 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Northshore Park. Free food for volunteers. Tickets are available for general public.

•

•

A Free Concert Series

Returning to The Woodlands Waterway Square

another season of the popular outdoor concert series Live at night returns to Waterway square in the Woodlands every saturday in March from 6 to 8 p.m. this year’s free concert series features a variety of entertainers including rocking texas country band Dunville, classic rock and blues sensation Heated Frenzy, contemporary jazz group Jazz avenue, classic rock rhythm and blues band rockitBayou and the cover band soulshine.

Live at night’s spring entertainment schedule is as follows:

• March 3, 2012 – Dunville

• March 10, 2012 – Heated Frenzy

• March 17, 2012 – Jazz avenue

• March 24, 2012 – rockitBayou

• March 31, 2012 – soulshine

Waterway square is a one-acre public plaza with unique water features and green spaces that serve as the centerpiece of the Woodlands town Center.

“Live at night has become one of the most popular live music settings in the area,” says nick Wolda, president of the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. “With the Fountains at Waterway square as its backdrop, people of all ages flock to enjoy the scenic venue while listening to the sounds of local and regional favorites.”

Live at night attendees will find limited, free curbside parking along Lake robbins Drive, Waterway avenue, Waterway square Place and timberloch Place. Paid covered parking also is available at the 24 Waterway Parking Garage (located at the corner of Fountain Plaza and Lake robbins Drive) and at the Waterway square Parking Garage (between Fountain Plaza and Woodloch Court). additional uncovered parking is available in the surface parking lot along the corner of Waterway avenue and timberloch Place.

Live at night is free and open to the public, thanks to generous sponsors including Kyle sherburne – state Farm Insurance, the Woodlands Development Company and Munday Chevrolet.

For more information on the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, please visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com or call 281-363-2447. you can also “like” the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ VisittheWoodlands or “follow” on twitter at www.twitter.com/theWoodlandsCVB.

3 p.m. • Saturday, March 31, 2012 • Riva Row Boat House

Each parent/child kayaking team will take a trip down the Waterway on a search for lots of eggs! Riva Row Boat House rules apply to this program. Ages: Any age child; must be accompanied by an adult to ride in the kayak. $45/pair.

1 p.m. • Sunday, April 1, 2012 • The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park

Bring out the family for some Easter fun, including an egg hunt and Easter craft, plus an “egg”cellent brunch! Don’t forget to bring your camera! Ages: All. $30/family of four, $5/additional family member.

10 - 11 a.m. • Wednesday, April 4, 2012 • Waterway Square

Don’t miss this extra Easter fun time, including dying eggs and making a funny bunny! Please register in advance. Ages: 2 to 4. $12/child, $7/additional sibling.

6 p.m. • Thursday, April 5, 2012 • Waterway Square

No registration required! Bring your camera and the kids, even a pet, to snap photos with the Easter Bunny without all the lines and fuss! The event will be canceled in the event of bad weather. Call the Recreation Center at 281-210-3950 for verification. Ages: All. $5/family.

7 p.m. • Friday, April 6, 2012 • Terramont Park

Featuring the Glow-in-the-Dark Hunt

The whole family is sure to have an “egg”citing time at the Bunny Bash with snacks, crafts, music and a glow-in-the-dark egg hunt! Ages: All. $20/family of four, $5/additional family member.

OPERATION IDENTIFICATION

By Holly Steinke

Operation Identification is a nationwide effort of law enforcement agencies, citizens and businesses to proactively help reduce property theft and burglary by identifying your property.

In The Woodlands, Operation ID is a program of The Woodlands Township.

Residents of The Woodlands may check out an engraver kit at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, to help identify their property. To check out an engraver, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click Departments, Neighborhood

Services then Contact Your Program Specialist, call 281-210-3800 or e-mail neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Engrave your valuables with your Texas Driver’s License number and state abbreviation, such as TXlicensenumberTX, so that the number can’t be altered. Engrave any items of value that could easily be carried away. Don’t engrave your social security number!

Texas pawn shops cannot legally buy marked property without identification, so engraving your items makes it difficult for burglars to sell stolen

For more

property. It also helps law enforcement identify and return stolen items to its rightful owner.

For small or valuable items that you don’t want to engrave, such as jewelry and antiques, be sure to photograph the items. Keep an inventory of the items you have marked and copy down serial numbers of valuable items. An inventory form can be found on the Township Web site. Keep the photos and the inventory form in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or safe, for identification purposes.

tips on how to prevent

crime, please contact your Township program specialist at 281-210-3800.

march

Thursday, march 

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

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 281-210-3800

Live at Night

Dunville (Texas Country Band) Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447

In the Spotlight Teen Talent Show

The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park 6055 Creekside Forest Drive

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Tuesday, march 6

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, march 7

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, march 8

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture BATS!

McCullough Junior High School 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3800

saturday, march 0

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.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Live at Night

Heated Frenzy (Classic Rock and Blues Sensation) Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447

sunday, march 

FREE Concert in the Park Texas Renegade (Texas Country) Northshore Park 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3800

S UN Mo N T UES W ED T HURS F R i SaT

Tuesday, march 3

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Friday, march 6

Bloodborne Pathogens Class

Emergency Training Center

9 to 11 a.m.

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, march 7

St. Patrick’s Day

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

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Live at Night

Jazz Avenue (Contemporary Jazz)

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

sunday, march 8

FREE Concert in the Park NiteBeat Band (Variety)

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

monday, march 9

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

Emergency Training Center 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, march 20

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Wednesday, march 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, march 22

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Workshop

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, march 24

The Woodlands Spring Flea Market

Town Center Parking Garage

7 to 10 a.m.

281-210-3976

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Camp Ter-Ra-Mont, March 24-25

Terramont Park 8500 Terramont Drive

2 p.m. to 9 a.m.

281-210-3950

Live at Night

RockitBayou (Classic Rock Rhythm and Blues Band)

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

sunday, march 25

FREE Concert in the Park Spellbound (Jazz)

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

monday, march 26

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

Mitchell Library 8125 Ashlane Way

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Tuesday, march 27

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, march 28

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, march 3

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

The Woodlands Earth Day GreenUp

Check-in: 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at designated park in your village GreenUp: 9 a.m. to noon

Celebrate: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rob Fleming Park 281-210-3800

Live at Night

Soulshine (Cover Band) Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

Garbage collection

no changes in garbage service this month.

RememBeR

The Woodlands covenants require that trash and recycle carts must be stored out of public view.

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

www.metroministorage.net

alden Bridge

Got the volunteer spirit? We need you to represent alden Bridge at the Woodlands spring Flea Market on saturday, March 24, 2012, in the town Center Parking Garage. all village associations share in the profits if we meet our quota of volunteers, and our share goes directly to our scholarship fund. Please contact abinfo@comcast.net for additional information. this is a morning event, so you’ll still have all afternoon for your own use, plus you get the first look at all the goodies being offered for sale!

Congratulations to the winners of the village association elections! We appreciate your participation in the election process. March is the start of our new board year, and our annual meeting will be held on tuesday, March 13, 2012, at 7 p.m. at the township building, 2801 technology Forest Boulevard. all residents are invited to join us as we thank outgoing board members, welcome new members, and recap the year.

Midnight on Friday, March 23, 2012, is the deadline for receipt of completed applications for alden Bridge scholarships, so don’t let this opportunity pass. applications can be obtained from school counselors or by downloading from our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org. alden Bridge resident students going on to higher education in 2012 are eligible to apply, and we’ll award three $1,000 scholarships.

Please send your e-mail address to abinfo@comcast.net so we can add you to the mailing list for our monthly e-mail newsletter and visit our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org, for more news and information about the Village of alden Bridge and the Woodlands.

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

How it’s said really doesn’t matter. In any language the measure of our gratitude and appreciation to all who partner with us in serving the community is the same – large and heartfelt! Our annual Fall Festival, for example, wouldn’t be the same without you. so kudos to you, Cochran’s Crossing Kroger! your generosity over the years has been nothing short of spectacular.

Ditto the Woodlands High school Key Club and Interact! you’ve lent us more helping hands and smiling faces than we can count. and to the Woodlands Fire Department, Montgomery County sheriff’s Office and the Woodlands township Parks and recreation Department, thanks for your continuing participation. and finally to all you moms, dads and kids – thanks for coming. your attendance makes all the effort worthwhile. see you next time around or hopefully sooner at the Cochran’s Crossing Village association annual Meeting, tuesday, april 24, 2012, 7:30 p.m. at the Woodlands township town Hall, 2801 technology Forest Blvd.

Submitted by Bill Mara

College Park

the community elections are over and it is time to meet your newly elected village association board. Please join us at our annual Meeting on March 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the emergency training Center. We will be introducing our new

board, and refreshments will be served after the meeting.

March is the beginning of the whirlwind of activities that can be found throughout the Village of College Park. you can volunteer to help out with the Flea Market, where volunteers can earn money for our scholarship fund. the flea market is on March 24 and all volunteer shifts are open. Please contact Gail Carney at 936-271-1241 for more information and to sign up for this fun event.

March 31 is also the deadline for the College Park Village association scholarships. College Park Village association is proud to support our graduating seniors with two annual scholarships worth $1,000 towards college. applications are available through our Web site, at the counseling office of College Park High school, or from any College Park Village association board member. We have such outstanding students in College Park, it is a privilege to provide the scholarships.

Submitted by Gail Carney

Creekside Park

the Village of Creekside Park’s 3rd annual Chili Cook Off and Winter Festival was another tremendous success! Many thanks to all of the sponsors, participants, volunteers and attendees who took part in the event. nine chili teams arrived in the early morning at rob Fleming Park to slice and dice ingredients and get their large pots of chili simmering. things got really interesting when Ice express arrived and blew 30,000 pounds of snow to create a giant snow sledding hill. Festivities officially kicked off at 1 p.m., and with the beautiful December texas weather we had more than 1,000 residents tasting chili samples, building snowmen, face

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

painting, and of course endless trips up and down the sledding hill for the kids. nick Wolda, president of the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, Claude Hunter, director of the Woodlands township, and Peggy Krysiak, program specialist for the Woodlands township, were the honored guest judges. after careful deliberation, Fire In the Hole, led by sally epton, was declared the best overall winner. the People’s Choice vote for first place was triple B, led by Cory ezell; second place went to VooDoo Chili, led by ryan O’shaughnessy; and third place went to Flying Pigs, led by Karen Maxwell.

If you haven’t already, please visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com to register for official village events and news alerts.

Submitted by Nancy Decker Lent

Grogan’s Mill

With warmer weather approaching, expect the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market to grow with more vendors and increased visitors. the market operates every saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon. For more information on vendors and goods, check 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 our market. While there you can also subscribe to the weekly Farmer’s Market newsletter. the online vendor application also provides instructions for home gardeners who wish to sell their surplus produce in our Gardener’s Corner.

Got lots of paper you want shredded? On the first saturday of every month, from 11 a.m. until noon, On-site shred offers a special discounted deal of $7 per storage box (Bankers Box®). shredding is done on the spot by one of their specially equipped trucks. the truck

will be located adjacent to the Farmer’s Market in the Grogan’s Mill shopping Center. Call 281-292-2290 or go to www.shreddinghouston.net for more information on the company’s services.

the Grogan’s Mill Village association is holding its annual Planning retreat on saturday, March 10, 2012, to determine our projects and budget for the 2012/2013 fiscal year. Please visit our Web site for time and location. residents are encouraged to attend this meeting or send suggestions in advance that you would like considered at the meeting.

the Grogan’s Mill Village association is proud to contribute $1,000 to the Grogan’s Mill Community emergency response team (Cert). the Cert team consists of residents who are trained to become first responders in case of an emergency. they receive 36 hours of training in basic first aid, search and rescue, handling of hazardous materials and fires. Grogan’s Mill Village association’s contribution will help equip 20 trained volunteers in Grogan’s Mill to be better prepared to provide help in a community emergency. Items that will be bought with this money include a chain saw, axes, pry bars, medical kits, blankets and other emergency materials. If you are interested in volunteering for this service, please inform the Grogan’s Mill Village association, who will forward your interest on to Mike thompson who spearheads this worthy volunteer effort for our village.

More than 4,000 runners have signed up for the Woodlands Marathon on March 3, 2012. the one thing they are missing is crowd support. the sponsor of the race, Liberty Mutual, is holding a cheer challenge and has asked each of the villages to participate. the village that gets the highest ratings from the runners can win up to $1,000 that will then be given back to the community continued on page 20

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.

as gifts to our schools, scholarships or other activities. Grogan’s Mill Village association’s cheering section is stationed near the start of the race, in front of the Marriott Hotel. People should be there by 6:30 a.m.

If you are interested in participating, please contact Deborah sargeant at dcsbusiness@sbcglobal.net.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

2012 community service scholarship attention all graduating seniors residing in the Village of Indian springs: the Indian springs Village association is now accepting applications for the 2012 Community service scholarship. as a voluntary, elected board, one of our functions is to recognize and promote good citizenship and community service by awarding multiple scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each.

to be eligible for the Indian springs Village association Community service scholarship, the applicant must:

• Currently reside in the Village of Indian springs

• Be a graduating high school senior (or home schooled) or recent high school graduate

• Plan to attend an institution of higher learning (2- or 4-year or vocational) in fall 2012

the scholarships will be awarded primarily on community service and citizenship, so applicants please provide very specific descriptions of your

service to the community. Other factors, including academics, will be considered only secondarily. this scholarship honors those who have chosen to serve their community, though the type of service is not limited in any way.

Please note the following key dates:

• 2012 graduates must submit complete applications at a time designated by their college counselor for indian springs village association pick-up at the school on March 26, 2012 by the close of business.

• all other applicants must mail completed applications to: Indian springs Village association attn: scholarship Committee P.O. Box 13091, the Woodlands, tX 77393-0291, postmarked on or before March 26, 2012.

• scholarship recipients will be notified by e-mail on april 2, 2012.

• scholarship recipients and their guests will briefly attend the Indian springs Village association board meeting on april 10, 2012, to be recognized. Photos for publicity will be taken that evening as well. Photos may be posted on the Indian springs Village association Web site at www.indianspringsvillage.com.

• Winners may also be recognized at their school’s awards ceremony in May 2012. We are proud of our young Indian springs residents and pleased to recognize their accomplishments as well as financially assist in furthering their education. Qualified applicants can pick

up the application from their school counselor’s office or the Woodlands township offices. For more information, you can contact amy Lecocq, Indian springs Village association president and scholarship Committee chairman, at IsVascholarships@gmail.com.

cheer station for The Woodlands Marathon

Indian springs Village association is sponsoring a “Cheer station” along the path of the Woodlands Marathon on March 3, 2012, at the corner of Falconwing Drive and Woodlands Parkway. Check out the Indian springs Village association Web site at www.indianspringsvillage.com for additional news and photos.

Panther Creek

spring Flea Market, March 24, 2012

It’s time again for the Woodlands spring Flea Market, which will be held on saturday, March 24, 2012, 7 to 10 a.m., in the town Center Parking Garage next to the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. this is an opportunity to sell things that have been cluttering your closets and garages, and to buy things at bargain prices. the Woodlands spring Flea Market tickets for booth spaces will be sold saturday, March 3, 2012, noon to 4 p.m., near randall’s supermarket in the Panther Creek Village Center. Call the Flea Market number at 281-210-3976 for further information.

Submitted by Merle Causey

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/donationsguide

meet the Township day

continued from page 3

the township’s 138 full- and parttime employees provide services in the following departments at the town Hall:

• General Manager’s Office, Legislative affairs

• Human resources

• Covenant administration

• Community relations, Convention & Visitors Bureau

• Finance, Information technology, records

• Parks and recreation administration, Parks and recreation Development, Facility and sportsfield reservations, town Center rangers

• Community services, Law enforcement services, neighborhood services this building was originally built in 1999, and as part of the building purchase, the township was able to acquire and reuse the modular office work station furniture throughout the building. additionally, the building has about 16,000 square feet of space that is not currently utilized and will be retained to meet future changes resulting from growth or change in government.

the township is pursuing LeeD (Leadership in energy and environmental Design) certification from the u s Green Building Council, a non-profit organization of building industry professionals committed to sustainability. two separate township offices still 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.

alden Bridge

Bredehoft Family

Cap Family

Cub Scout Pack 772, Dens 1, 5 and 18

Cub Scout Packs 886 and 889

Culp Family

Steve and Judy Easton

Weaver Family

Cochran’s Crossing

Tiffany and Todd Cauley

Creighton Family

Girl Scout Troops 8258 and 11351

Robert and Nancy Rodd

Roger Howard

The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

The Woodlands High School Science National Honor Society

Woodlands Landscaping

College Park

Bay Chapel Court Bandits

Whitener Family

grogan’s mill

Myers Family

indian springs

Grimes/Hanlin Family

Woodlands India Association

Panther Creek

Cub Scout Pack 336

National Charity Round Table

Residents of Crescent Falls Court

Rowing Club of The Woodlands Juniors

The Woodlands College Park High School Reveliers (path extends into Cochran’s Crossing)

sterling Ridge

Charles and Donna Moseley

Degas Park Neighbors

Stockhausen Family

Texas Laurels National Charity League

Town Center

American Legion Post 305

Daisy Troop 11872 (path extends into Grogan’s Mill)

Lady Cavaliers (path extends into Research Forest)

central station

We A re Reloca t i ng

The Woodlands Fi re Depa r tment Central Station and Administrative Of f ices have tempo ra r i ly relocated to the Shenandoah Municipal Complex at 29955 I H4 5 North, Shenandoah, T exas 773 81, du r ing the const r uction of ou r new facil it y. Al l e - mai l add resses and phone number s remain the same

We look fo r wa rd to moving to ou r state - of-the - a r t Central F i re Station and Administrative Bui lding at 9951 G rogan’s M i l l Road in Sp r ing 2 013 (pictu red above right.)

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/firedepartment

Photo by Mimi Jones

Bay Chapel Court Bandits left to right: Lily the Recycle Dog, Chris Hines, Will Chambers, Tonja Chambers, Jenna Chambers, Corby Webb and Tracey Jordan.

E MPLOYMENT O PPORTUNITIES

theWoodlands township is accepting applications for 2012 summer seasonal positions in the Parks and recreation Department. available positions are lifeguards from $7.75/hour, swim coaches from $8/hour and water safety instructors from $10/hour. training classes for positions will be provided at a reduced rate to successful candidates.

aquatic recreation specialist, from $12.75/hour (april through mid-July), will oversee swim team practices and all meets, as well as overseeing other programs. summer Camp positions are also available (must be age 18 or older) from $9/hour. Counselors will help coordinate and organize recreation programs and activities for children ages 6 to 12 attending summer camp (June, July and august) at the recreation Center.

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

americans recycled a record-high 2,579 million pounds of plastic bottles during 2010, and manufacturers are clamoring for more, according to the american Chemistry Council. recycling empty bottles and containers for shampoo, detergent, food and beverages just got easier in the Woodlands! More types of rigid plastic containers are now accepted in your curbside cart—everything but number 6.

Discover the ease of using the new 96-gallon recycling cart. all standard recyclables are placed together, no sorting or bagging required. the following curbside guidelines keep plastic commodities marketable:

• rigid plastic bottles and containers, only

• Codes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 accepted

• nO plastic bags of any type

– recycled at local grocery and big box stores

• nO styrofoam™, meat trays, foam blocks or packing material

– recycled at Precinct 3 recycling Complex, 1122 Pruitt rd.

• remove lids

– Discard or save for a special collection event

• rinse well

www.woodlandswellness.com

By Lucinda Valdes

Where does it go from the curb? recycled plastics are remanufactured into hundreds of everyday items, from fleece jackets and carpeting to detergent bottles and lumber. More than 1,600 businesses are involved in making toys, lawn and garden products and pipe, or developing automotive uses from second generation plastic. recycling plastic into new products and applications is a thriving business in this country, up nearly 300 percent in recent years.

Too many consumers continue to be unaware of the significant usefulness, demand, and value of recycled plastic. American Chemistry Council

too valuable for the landfill, plastic is not a waste—it’s a resource. More than 90 percent of households in the Woodlands already recycle. Visit the township’s Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for information about more recycling opportunities in our community.

 PeTe: Soda, water, juice, sports drink bottles, shampoo, personal care, salad dressing bottles, deli containers, peanut butter, condiment jars

2 hdPe: Milk, cider and water jugs, cosmetic containers, detergent, bleach and cleaning product bottles

3 PVC: Salad dressing, deli clamshells and blister packs, vegetable oil and mouthwash bottles

4 ldPe: Squeezable bottles for honey and mustard

5 PP: Yogurt, margarine, takeout containers, medicine bottles

6 Ps: NOT RECYCLABLE CURBSIDE

7 oTheR: Some citrus juice and ketchup bottles

spring 202 Concert series

Sundays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Northshore Park

march  Texas Renegade (Texas Country)

march 8 NiteBeat Band (Variety)

march 25 Spellbound (Jazz)

april  Aimless Gun (Country/Indie)

april 5 Emory Quinn (Country/Rock)

april 22 Vocal Trash (Variety)

april 29 Cold Shot (Variety)

Bring your lawn chairs, a picnic and the whole family for an evening of fun!

the fifth aNNiversary of the

the fifth anniversary of the Muddy trails Bash, produced by the Woodlands township, is set for saturday, april 7, 2012, from 3 to 8 p.m., at the Lodge in rob Fleming Park, in the Village of Creekside Park. the Muddy trails Bash offers something for everyone!

are you a runner? runners of all ages can participate in the Little Muddy Kids Fun run, Muddy trails 5K and 10K trail races, or the 5K-9 Fun run, for dogs and their owners. the races will kick off with the Little Muddy Kids Fun run at 3:30 p.m., followed by the usa track

do you have the best crawfish recipe? showcase your Cajun cuisine at the Muddy Bowl Cook-off! Compete for most unique recipe, best decorated tent, people’s choice award, and, new this year, the best Cajun dish! Last year’s event was a hit with 11 teams! For details or to sign up your team, call the Woodlands township recreation Center at 281-210-3950 or print out a form online.

and Field sanctioned 5K at 4 p.m., 10K at 4:15 p.m. and 5K-9 Fun run at 5:30 p.m. the running events will wind through the trails of the 1,800-acre George Mitchell nature Preserve. Individual 5K and 10K awards will be presented for top female and male finishers, top female and male masters, and the top three males and females in eight different age categories. all runners will receive an official race

By angel nicks and Pamela Woods

shirt and in honor of the fifth anniversary, all participants will receive a Muddy trails finisher medal! to register, visit www.thewoodlandstownship–tx.gov/ races or call 281-210-3800 for more information.

do you like to have good ol’ family fun? Muddy trails will have live Zydeco music, activities for the kids, crawfish and other foods. Crawfish, along with other post race food, will be provided for racers; concessions will be available for friends, family and spectators.

the Muddy trails Bash is supported by sponsors Luke’s Locker, Memorial Hermann sports Medicine, the strong Firm and Finish strong Coaching.

Eastern red bats give birth to as many as five pups in a litter.

Celebrating texas Bats

Walk in the Woods nature Lecture celebrates the International year of the Bat on thursday, March 8, 2012, at 7:30 p.m. with Diana Foss, urban biologist with texas Parks and Wildlife Department, at McCullough Jr. High school, 3800 s. Panther Creek Drive. a free program appealing to all ages, Bats! reveals the intriguing nature of the flying mammal shrouded in myth and mystery. Often sighted at dusk swoooping to catch an insect meal, 11 species of bats are found in east texas. although people are most familiar with Mexican free-tail bats, tree bats are more common in the Woodlands, notes Ms. Foss. Living singly or in small groups, tree bats roost on palm fronds, in heavy foliage and behind loose bark.

a bat enthusiast, Ms. Foss became fascinated with the species while working with a big brown bat, a rehab animal at the Victoria Zoo. “I suddenly realized that bats have a reputation that they do not deserve,” she explained. “they have a place in the

By Lucinda Valdes

ecosystem.” the big brown bat, named Click, moved to Houston with Ms. Foss and became an educational animal, visiting school children for the next 13 years.

these days Ms. Foss works closely with the City of Houston Parks Department and Harris County Flood Control District developing bat management guidelines. a volunteer bat educator, she also monitors the population of Mexican free-tails at Houston’s premier bat colony inhabiting the Waugh street Bridge that spans Buffalo Bayou on allen Parkway.

Diana Foss will share a close-up view of bats, identifying local species, covering their behavior and use of bat houses while addressing human health concerns. Walk in the Woods nature Lecture series is a free program of the Woodlands township sponsored by the Woodlands G.r e e n., Waste Management and Hilton Garden Inn. For more information, please call the township at 281-210-3800.

Photo courtesy Bat Conservation International

registration continues for Public forums the Woodlands Governance

ascovered in previous issues of The Woodlands Community Magazine, 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, residents 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 township’s 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 municipal incorporation.

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. at the John Cooper school, and saturday, March 31, 2012, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Woodlands emergency training Center.

Registration continues through noon on March 28, 2012. To ensure your seat at one of these events, please register today by visiting the Township’s Web site, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ governance, 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.

We invite you to follow the process by visiting the township’s Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and clicking Government then transition and Governance, and by following monthly briefings provided at the Board of Director’s meetings.

Whenthe texas coastal prairies were intact, a number of extravagantly graceful grasses grew throughout this region. now home landscapers are discovering the unique qualities of these resilient and attractive plants.

they are drought-tolerant, feed wildlife and display beautiful foliage and seed heads. these grasses have two other interesting aspects: susceptible to the slightest breeze, they offer movement and rustling sounds to the garden.

able to grow in about any soil type, these plants respond well to care. Given compost and good drainage, some will grow to five feet high or more and as wide across. the most popular grasses include:

Gulf muhly: Plant Gulf muhly where the light from the rising or setting sun can catch the lacy, magenta seed heads in the fall. although it grows only up to three

feet, this relatively small plant provides dramatic color to fall and winter gardens; cut back to the ground in early spring.

Bamboo muhly: Lacy, light green blades sit atop bamboo-like stalks. It, like all muhlies, is a mounding plant. Divide every two years or so; it can grow to six feet.

Inland sea oats: the flowerets resemble bluish-green, translucent oats in late spring. In the fall this plant is particularly showy, as the now khakicolored “oat” heads, sitting atop very thin stalks, flicker in dappled light. this plant grows well in shade and reaches two to four feet.

Bushy bluestem: Bright green, threeto four-foot-high stalks change to the color of salmon in fall. Fluffy white seed heads burst out near the tops of the stalks, making the plant particularly striking; it grows up to five feet.

inland sea oats

By robert Dailey, Master Gardener

Photo by Dawn Pando

Photo by Ashley Crum

gulf muhly

www.championspediatric.com

The lessons learned in boTh places will lasT a lifeTime

Over 75 percent of our students play at least one sport

Athletic offerings in football, baseball, softball, volleyball and boys’ and girls’ cross country, soccer, basketball, track, tennis, swimming and golf

Member of the Southwest Preparatory Conference

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.

www.biolandscape.com

Is there a dog in your neighborhood that barks at all hours of the day and night? Is there a cat that is destroying a neighbor’s garden? If there is such a pet in your neighborhood, inform the pet’s owner of the offense. He or she may not be aware that the offending animal is his or hers. and, on the other hand, if your neighbor should approach you to say that

please, be a

your dog’s barking is affecting others, at least consider the possibility that it could be true. the next step is to consider a constructive solution to the dilemma.

Last but not least, please pick up after your pet. Pet waste bags are easily purchased and used. Plastic newspaper and grocery bags can also be used to pick up after your pet and then placed

Pets can give their owners lots of fun and comfort, but can also be a source of nuisance for the neighborhood.

in the trash. always be mindful that leashes are required once the animal leaves your property.

Don’t let your pet spoil the natural beauty of the Woodlands for someone else. take every opportunity to be a responsible pet owner. It shows pride in your community as well as respect for your neighbors and love of your pet.

Right. Here. For your child.

The exper tise of Texas Children’s Hospital, together with the high level of care offered by St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, is the right choice , right here , for your child.

Our ser vices include:

• The exper t neonatologists who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospital manage and staff the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, offering the best possible care for your newborn

• The same physicians who provide pediatric emergency care at Texas Children’s Hospital are also caring for your children at the St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital emergency room, 24 hours a day

• When your child needs inpatient care at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, the premier pediatricians who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospital are there to manage care through the Pediatric Hospitalist Program.

• Texas Children’s nursing leadership is on-site to provide exper t management of newborn and pediatric ser vices at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital.

• An experienced consultant from the Texas Children’s Lactation Program is available at St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to provide lactation support and care to breastfeeding mothers and their infants.

• A Texas Children’s child life professional is available at St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to help your child and family cope with the stress of hospitalization

We’re proud to offer Texas Children’s Hospital ser vices at:

17200 St. Luke’s Way | The Woodlands, TX 77384