March 2016

Township Honors Volunteers

Arts in the Park

Mosquito Control: Do’s and Don’t’s for Homeowners

This

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www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

message from the woodlands township board of directors

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

Message from The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

TheWoodlands Township concluded 2015 in excellent financial condition while lowering the tax rate for the sixth consecutive year to the lowest rates in the history of the community.

The 2015 Summary of Accomplishments was recently presented to the Township Board of Directors by the President/General Manager and can be found online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/summaryofaccomplishments. This presentation noted that the Township Board of Directors took a number of actions in 2015 to improve the Township’s overall financial condition and to assure the continuation of high-quality services:

• Reduced the property tax rate by eight percent to 23 cents per $100 of property valuation

• Increased funding for law enforcement and will continue to monitor law enforcement needs and adjust as needed

• Was awarded a grant of $14 million to purchase 25 new buses for The Woodlands Express

• Completed the renovation of Fire Station No. 2

• Approved the 2016 budget, maintaining high quality service levels, increasing public safety services, increasing community maintenance and creating a plan to reduce long-term debt

Your elected directors, pictured above, are committed to public safety, among other services; providing exceptional customer-friendly services, representing the community as the government for The Woodlands, and providing programs and policies to enhance property values.

Ed Robb Chairman Position No. 4

Jeff Long Director Position No. 3

Mike Bass Vice Chairman Position No. 2

John McMullan Director Position No. 5

Gordy Bunch Secretary Position No. 1

Ann Snyder Director Position No. 6

Laura Fillault Treasurer Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

2015

We are the exper ts in pediatric neurolog y. When Lillian was diagnosed with a severe form of epilepsy, she came to Texas Children’s to receive cutting-edge , life-saving treatment. Now that she’s seizure-free –and developing like a typical child her age – she needs s p e c i a l i ze d fo l l ow - up c a re t h a t s h e c a n ’t f i n d j u s t anywhere . Why are we bringing world-renowned p e d i a t r i c ex p e r t i s e a n d m o re t h a n 2 0 p e d i a t r i c subspecialty ser vices to The Woodlands? So Lillian can focus on the more impor tant things in her life…like perfecting her signature catwalk pose .

Learn more at texaschildrens.org/woodlands.

Volunteers Township HONORS for their Spirit of Service

by Jasmine Raziuddin

TheWoodlands Township Board of Directors honored more than 200 volunteers at the Volunteer Recognition Reception on Wednesday, January 27, 2016, held at The Woodlands Township Town Hall.

The Township Chairman of the Board of Directors Ed Robb summed up the purpose for the evening’s festivities by stating, “We are truly fortunate to live in such a special community. Of the many things that make The Woodlands such a wonderful place to live are the residents who go above and beyond to improve our community. This includes the many residents who regularly serve selflessly to enhance the quality of life for all of us. And for these volunteers, we are truly grateful.”

Members of the Bicycle Advisory Task Force, CERT: The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team Committee, the Law Enforcement Advisory Council, the Development Standards Committee, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Council, the Residential Design Review Committees, The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors and Marketing Committee, and the Village Associations received recognition from the Township Board of Directors. Also included in the honors of the event were 11 Volunteerism awards, presented to recipients for their exceptional Spirit of Service in their community through their work with the Township.

Director Ann Snyder honored Jennie Bass, Jacqueline Lenz, Annette McMullen, Carolyn Moore, Maria Rockwell and Gene Uzzle with the Recycling Club of Copperwood for their

relentless pursuit of recycling options for their apartment community. The recruiting and monitoring efforts of the Club members combined with an enthusiastic apartment manager and an accommodating service staff working with the Township’s Environmental Services staff has resulted in a successful multi-family recycling model. Within two months, weekly collections have doubled from four to eight 96-gallon containers at this 300-unit complex.

Vice President Mike Bass honored Cheryl Brogan, Jennifer Key and Jennifer Maloof with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program in the East Shore neighborhood in Grogan’s Mill for their recruitment of new members and putting on events to get the message out. They have hosted two years of National Night Out Parties, the 2015 Dog Walker Watch event, 2015 Crawfish Boil, Watch Meeting Luncheon, and Neighborhood Watch Meetings. With the help of these three coordinators, the number of coordinators for the program has grown to eight.

Secretary Gordy Bunch honored Sandra Sutherland for her service and dedication throughout the years in three annual signature races produced by The Woodlands Township—TWFG Muddy Trails Bash, CB&I TRI and the Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas. Sandra Sutherland has been involved in the races since their inception, providing significant support in recruiting volunteers, serving as an advocate on behalf of the Township in the athletic community, and dedicating her time to ensure key volunteer positions are filled to enhance overall participant experience and safety. Some of the jobs

that she has had are strategically placing Cheer Zones along the race routes, course monitors, leading runners/bikers and transitioning volunteers. Sandra has also assisted with the development and verification of various race routes over the last 10+ years. Her passion and dedication to The Woodlands’ athletic community has helped shape the Township’s races into premiere regional sporting events through her outreach efforts.

Director Jeff Long honored Arthur Bredehoft for his diligent volunteerism for over 15 years. He has been chairman of the Alden Bridge Residential Design Review Committee for at least 12 years and is a past board member of The Woodlands Association, one of the predecessors to the Township. He also serves on other volunteer committees in The Woodlands and has been a big proponent of efficiency with a focus on customer service. Alden Bridge was the first Residential Design Review Committee to accept and promote the use of PowerPoint as a presentation format for all review items by the Residential Design Review Committees. He has also been on the forefront of suggested revisions to the Standards to allow for application approval by staff in order to provide better customer service to residents.

The Township would like to thank all of the volunteers that help keep The Woodlands one of the best places to live, work and play. A complete list of volunteers who were recognized for their Spirit of Service appears on page 8. Those interested in volunteering have plenty of options to do so. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/volunteer

Members of the Recycling Club of Copperwood are recognized at the awards ceremony. Pictured, left to right, are Township Chairman of the Board Ed Robb, Jennie Bass, Treasurer Laura Fillault, Jacqueline Lenz, Secretary Gordy Bunch, Carolyn Moore, Director Jeff Long, Annette McMullen, Director Ann Snyder, Maria Rockwell, Gene Uzzle and Vice Chairman Mike Bass.

Maria Rockwell

Annette McMullen

Jacqueline Lenz

Sandra Sutherland received the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Parks and Recreation Department of the Township. Pictured, left to right, are Treasurer Laura Fillault, Board Chairman Ed Robb, Secretary Gordy Bunch, Sandra Sutherland, Director Ann Snyder, Director Jeff Long and Vice Chairman Mike Bass.

The Township Board of Directors honored Arthur Bredehoft with the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Covenant Administration Department. Pictured, left to right, are Board Chairman Ed Robb, Secretary Gordy Bunch, Treasurer Laura Fillault, Arthur Bredehoft, Director Ann Snyder, Director Jeff Long and Vice Chairman Mike Bass.

Jennifer Key

Jennifer Maloof

Cheryl Brogan

Jennie Bass

Carolyn Moore Gene Uzzle

Members of the East Shore Neighborhood Watch were honored with awards from the Township Board of Directors. Pictured, left to right, are Vice Chairman Mike Bass, Director Ann Snyder, Board Chairman Ed Robb, Jennifer Key, Treasurer Laura Fillault, Jennifer Maloof, Secretary Gordy Bunch, Cheryl Brogan and Director Jeff Long.

Arthur Bredehoft

Sandra Sutherland

Photos by Perry Frank

BICYCLE ADVISORY TASK FORCE

Helen Bostock

Randall Cade

Cheryl Crandall Tangen

David Hitchcock

George Mendes

George Newman

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM COMMITTEE

Tom Brown

Kathy Coffman

Ed Commender

Scott Darby

DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS COMMITTEE

Deborah Sargeant, Chair

Robert Heineman, Vice Chair

you for Your Spirit of Service in 2015

Thank

Ken Anderson

Chris Florack

Marti Eddington

Lou Ann Montana

Kim Hess

Walter Lisiewski

LAW ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Mike Bakewell

Mike Bass

Boyd Burdett

Tom Chumbley

Richard Derr

Anthony Fasone

PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

Mike Bass

Maryann Braid

Gordy Bunch

Bruce Cunningham

Mary Jane “MJ” Currey

Anthony Fasone

Chuck Hoffheiser

Claude Hunter

Amy Lecocq

Tom Howard

Denise Judy

Dan Kolkhorst

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEES

Alden Bridge

Arthur Bredehoft, Chair

John Passero, Vice Chair

Claude Hunter

Laurie Ricks

Herman Weindel

Cochran’s Crossing

Jim Goldmeyer, Chair

Gerard Raap, Vice Chair

Chris Gaynor

College Park

Roger McDonald, Chair

Brent Foster, Vice Chair

Barbara Jarvis

Mike Larson

Ted Stanley

Creekside Park

Mike Ramsey, Chair

Jennifer Mares, Vice Chair

Manfred Berretz

Sally Epton

Theresa Houghton

Grogan’s Mill

Vince Fredrick, Chair

Rex Campbell, Vice Chair

Alana Ashley

Sharon de Marsais

Bob Leilich

Indian Springs - TWA

Richard Stromatt, Chair

Matthew Dennis, Vice Chair

Shanna Davis

Russell Henien

Ken Schumann

THE WOODLANDS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Board of Directors

Gordy Bunch, Chair

Fred Domenick, Vice Chair

Ed Robb, Secretary/Treasurer

Peggy Hausman

J.J. Hollie

Karen Hoylman

Don Norrell

Greg Parsons

VILLAGE ASSOCIATIONS

Alden Bridge

Steve Leakey, President

Mike Cannetti, V. President

Darla Bell, Secretary

Jeff Crum, Treasurer

Maryann Braid

John Brown

Loretta Colchin

Lauren Esposito

Chuck Hoffheiser

Claude Hunter

Amos McDonald

Laurie Ricks

Kendrick Skipper

Theresa Wagaman

Adele Yung

Cochran’s Crossing

Stuart Schroeder, President

Brian Creighton, V. President

Gary Conwell, Secretary

Jim Goldmeyer, Treasurer

Thomas Buff

Beverly Fennessy

Mark Gjovik

Jennifer Graff

Todd Graff

J.C. Harville

Jo Anne Johnson

Cynthia Kessinger

Ben Perry

Larry Perry

Steve Perry

Lori Riley

Warren Robinson

Susan Tinsley

Clarence “CW” Wallace

Dabney Wisenbaker

College Park

Ted Stanley, President

Marti Meerscheidt, Secretary

Dave Mulberry, Treasurer

Cori Singletary, Former Secretary 2015

Scott Singletary, Former V. President 2015

Joel Barnes

Cherish Cahoon

Larry Faith

Steve LaMotta

Mike Larson

Johanne Stanley

Steve Schoger

Jim Ritter

Richie Spurlock

Danie van Loggerenberg

Marcello Lo Cicero

Dewey Lockwood

Warren Robinson

Marcello Lo Cicero

Marti Meerscheidt

Steve Perry

Indian Springs - WCA

Michael Kravetz, Chair

Steven Gallia, Vice Chair

John Leftwich

Shirley Leftwich

Panther Creek

Everett Ison, Chair

Tom Costello, Vice Chair

Ken Berntsen

James Geiger

Ted Stanley

Sue Tedesco

Clarence “CW” Wallace

Ken Schumann

Kelly Sharer

Sue Tedesco

Sterling Ridge

Jaydean Tullos, Chair

George Newman, Vice Chair

Ron Harris

Barbara Hodges

Marketing Committee

Catherine Beyt

Gordy Bunch

Suzanne Deliganis

Tory Enriquez

Creekside Park

Nancy Becker, President

Sue Tedesco, V. President

Lindsay Germano, Secretary

Brian Lucero, Treasurer

Sally Epton, Events Chair

Mike Casey

Rich Jakovac

Jerry King

Wendy Lambie

Marcello Lo Cicero

Lisa Purtell

Mike Ramsey

Kara Richmond

Isaac Segovia

Sarah Segovia

Grogan’s Mill

Dana Denton, President

Marie Brannen, V. President

Jody Ronzio, Secretary

Bruce Cunningham, Treasurer

Sara Bissig

Tom Chumbley

Virginia Dellinger

Mitzi Fredrick

Jane Georges

Noemi Gonzalez

Theresa Gramlich

Sheron Jones

Nancy MacDonald

Lorrie Parise

Pat Goodpastor

Johnny Hennigan

Tom Howard

Bob Leilich

Mike Tabbert

John Yoars

Indian Springs

Mike Arendes, President

Kelly Sharer, V. President

Bev Wallery, Secretary

Ken Schumann, Treasurer

Erika Bondy Pratt

Shanna Davis

Laura Fillault

Lloyd Matthews

Jim Merritt

Alan Neely

Matt Pounders

Michael Saucier

Richie Spurlock

Carol Stromatt

Richard Stromatt

Panther Creek

Everett Ison, President

Charles Meyer, V. President

Denise Judy, Secretary

Gene Satern

Jenny Taylor

Shannon Wilson

Kim Lewis, Treasurer

Mary Bootz

Kevin Currey

Paul Gebolys

Randall Kruchten

Dan Lewis

Dewey Lockwood

Hartley Mackintosh

Betty Nelson

Damon Palermo

Jay Mac Sanders

Sterling Ridge

Anthony Fasone, President

Kirk Pozadzides, V. President

Patrick Graham, Secretary

Janean Germany, Treasurer

Feyi Bassir, Co-Events Chair

Sue Young , Co-Events Chair

Natalia Arjona

Amy Cruse

Gary Dempsey

Tim Hjort

June Kolesar

Dan Sousa

expo 2016 expo & spring fling

wildflowers

WOODS

wildlife wildfire

water

Crime Down in The Woodlands in 2015

RESIDENTS ENCOURAGED TO STAY INFORMED

Recently released year-end statistics show that crime in The Woodlands declined in 2015, according to The Woodlands Township’s reports from its law enforcement agencies, but officials urge residents to stay aware in daily activities.

Assault declined by four percent, and sexual assault declined by 12 percent in 2015 as compared to 2014 in statistics

recently released. Burglaries, criminal mischief, theft of motor vehicle, robbery and public intoxication all saw decreases in 2015, although burglary of motor vehicles experienced a 20 percent increase – from 282 in 2014 to 339 last year.

“Public safety is the number one concern for The Woodlands Township’s Board of Directors and staff,” said Township Chairman Dr. Ed Robb. “It is

important for our residents and businesses to know their hometown is an exceedingly safe place to live and work,” he added. “Even so, we must all work together to make sure the community remains safe.”

Although reports regarding pathway safety have been in the media recently, in 2015 there were no sexual assaults on the pathways or in Township parks. “That is good news, but we must remain proactive,” Dr. Robb said. “And our Neighborhood Watch program is one of the best ways we can guard against criminals. We need our residents and businesses to be alert and always report suspicious activity.”

Under investigation right now is a reported incident in January 2016 of a female being sexually assaulted on a pathway near the Shadowbend and Gosling intersection. This report is under active investigation by law enforcement agencies. “We will not and cannot tolerate these types of activities,” Dr. Robb said.

“The Township works closely with the Sheriff’s Office and others to help keep crime down in The Woodlands, and to find those who commit crimes here,” Chairman Robb said. The Woodlands

does not have its own police department, but contracts with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, District 6, and Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4, to provide for the primary (enhanced patrol) policing services for The Woodlands. In addition, Township Parks and Recreation Rangers patrol the pathways throughout the day and night.

Monthly, all of these agencies provide calls for service/call titles data to the Township and are included in monthly Community Policing Reports. The data is important in giving the Township Board of Directors and community an overview of the types of calls responded to by law enforcement. In 2015, these law enforcement agencies combined responded to 72,513 calls for service/call titles.

“It is important to note that calls for service/call titles data does not reflect actual crime statistics,” according to Marian Leck, director of law enforcement for The Woodlands Township. “Essentially, the calls do represent activity and/or calls for service as dispatched that may or may not result in a crime (statistic).”

In addition to the calls for service/ call titles data provided monthly, both agencies work hand in hand with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch to share firsthand criminal activity with the community.

In January 2016, a press release was distributed by the Montgomery County Constable’s Office, Precinct 3. Their office provides an investigator for major crimes against children. The press release was shared through the Township’s Neighborhood Watch blog. Additionally, the information, along with assault calls for service/call titles data was also shared through newspaper articles and social media. Without background information on the assault calls for service/call titles data, many perceived the data to be actual crime data that took place on bike paths or parks.

Information received from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office reveals a more accurate picture of assault and sexual assault data.

• Assault (calls for service/call title)

– 2014 = 117

– 2015 = 109 (four percent decrease)

– Of those 109 calls for service/call title for assault, 73 generated a case number and/or proceeded through the system.

• Assault 2015 on bike paths or parks – Two assaults on bike path – Four assaults in parks (one family violence and three juvenile altercations)

• Sexual Assault (calls for service/call title) – 2014 = 50

– 2015 = 44 (12 percent decrease)

– 30 of the 44 reports generated a case number or proceeded through the system. A significant number of these cases were walk-in reports at two local hospitals within District 6 response area, and they may or may not have occurred inside The Woodlands.

– Other sexual assaults were reported to have occurred at residential addresses within The Woodlands.

• Sexual Assault 2015 on bike paths or parks

– None

PATHWAY SAFETY TIPS

To promote a safe environment for pathway users, The Woodlands Parks and Recreation Department recommends following safety precautions when utilizing the pathways.

• Walk, jog or bike with a friend, preferably during daylight hours.

• Take your cell phone with you, and dial 9-1-1 if you feel you are in danger. – Call immediately; do not wait until you have finished your walk. The sooner you can advise law

enforcement the better chance they have to address the matter.

– It is very important that you are aware of the names of the cross-streets and/ or intersection closest to your location. This will help law enforcement understand your location.

– Once you have alerted law enforcement of your concern/ suspicion, go to the closest location where other people are present and stay in an open/visible area. You can also ask the communications/dispatch personnel to stay on the line with you.

• Do not talk on your phone while walking, jogging or bicycling.

• Do not wear headphones for music/phone.

– If you decide to wear headphones, leave the volume on low so that you aware of sounds around you.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

• Use a mobile application that can track your location and inform family members of the route you will be taking.

– Research a mobile app that will work best for you; there are many on the market that will track your location and give you the option to alert chosen contacts of your location.

Please also consider joining The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch. Residents are important to the community policing effort, and most importantly, they are the first line of defense to take away the opportunity for crime to occur in many instances. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ stayinformed to sign up for Township blogs, newsletters and more, or call 281-210-3800.

By Lauren Miller

Volunteer and be a part of this event and your community!

T-shirt and food included for all volunteers. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/volunteer to sign up today. Email volunteer@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov with any questions.

Saturday, April 2, 2016, 3 to 8 p.m.

The Lodge in Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389, in the Village of Creekside Park

Hit the dirt running!

Runners of all ages can participate in one of the four trail races, all taking place on the beautiful winding trails of the George Mitchell Nature Preserve. The running events include a Little Muddy Kids’ One-Mile Fun Run and chip-timed, USATFsanctioned 5K and 10K. Closing out the running events, the 2K-9 Fun Run is a run/ walk for you and your four-legged friend. All participants will receive a TWFG Muddy Trails Bash T-shirt and a finisher medal upon crossing the finish line. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/races or email us at races@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Great family-friendly event for your weekend!

After working up an appetite on the trail, head on over to the adjacent Rob Fleming Park for the festive Post-Race Party, including live Zydeco music, the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off and a Kids’ Zone featuring activities and crafts! Concessions will be available for friends, family and spectators alike.

Calling all cooks!

Do you have the best crawfish recipe in town? Prove it at the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off! Compete for Judges’ Choice, Best Cajun Dish, Best Decorated Tent and the coveted People’s Choice Award! For details, or to sign up your team, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/races, or call 281-210-3900.

NOTE: TWFG Muddy Trails Bash is not a mud or adventure run.

Runners of all ages enjoy the TWFG Muddy Trails Bash and the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off. Photo by Mauricio Ramirez

TWFG Muddy Trails Bash is produced by The Woodlands Township

We Don’t Mess With Texas!

By Kathie Herrick and Lucinda Valdes

In honor of the 30th anniversary year of TxDOT’s Don’t Mess with Texas campaign, The Woodlands Earth Day GreenUp event will be a part of Texas’ signature cleanup event—the Don’t Mess With Texas Trash-off, to be held on Saturday April 9, 2016! Join your friends and neighbors and help clean up The Woodlands.

Pride in The Woodlands and Texas has been alive and well at local cleanup events. Since 2011, thousands of volunteers from all ages and all walks of life—families, scouts, neighborhoods, businesses, service clubs and schools— have helped to maintain a healthy, vibrant community. “The fun, team-building event provides an opportunity for residents to enjoy the outdoors, meet their neighbors

and take ownership of their space,” said Kathie Herrick, Adopt-a-Path Coordinator for The Woodlands Township. “The smallest litter, including cigarette butts and candy wrappers impacts community aesthetics, affects property values and harms wildlife,” she says. “Our volunteers make a difference!” Even the cigarette butts collected are recycled.

Join the cleanup and help focus attention on the true cost of littering. Volunteers are already signing up to take part in the cleanup and celebration that will follow. Pre-registration is encouraged, especially for groups. Participants will receive gloves, bags, instructions and an assigned pick-up area. A limited number of trash grabbers will be available for loan to groups that pre-register.

The entire community is invited to the post pick-up party and celebration with food, music and booths from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Northshore Park. Pickup volunteers will be honored guests, receiving free pizza and drinks along with the 2016 event T-shirt. The general public may purchase pizza and drinks.

Register now for the 2016 Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-off online at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenup For information, please call 281-210-3800.

The event is coordinated by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with support from The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Waste Management, H-E-B, Woodlands Joint Powers Agency and The Woodlands Development Company.

2016

Earth Day GreenUp Schedule of Events

Pre-register by April 1, 2016 at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenup

Check-in at area parks 8 to 10 a.m.

Trash-off/GreenUp 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Celebrate at Northshore Park 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Join or lead a cleanup crew. You gather your friends and we provide gloves and bags. We target litter on pathways, along waterways and in greenbelts. Enjoy the outdoors and keep The Woodlands beautiful by bagging trash in our natural spaces.

Photos by Perry Frank

Bring your fishing poles, and we’ll provide the bait, Saturday, March 19, 2016, 8 to 10 a.m. at Creekwood Park, 3383 S. Panther Creek Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381.

T-shirts are given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Prizes will be awarded for longest, heaviest and smallest fish caught. The ninth annual Creekwood Fishing Derby is free and sponsored by The Woodlands Professional Firefighters Association and Academy Sports + Outdoors. No registration is required and all ages are welcome. Photo by Pamela Woods

March

Tuesday, March 1

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

Lone Star College –Creekside Center

8747 West New Harmony Trail 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-5808

Wednesday, March 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, March 3

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, March 4

Gorilla Hole

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center

5310 Research Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to fifth-, sixth- and seventh- graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, March 5

The Woodlands Marathon

Starting line at Town Green Park www.thewoodlandsmarathon.com

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

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Kayak Egg Hunt

Riva Row Boat House 9 a.m.

Must register in advance

281-210-3950

FREE Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive 10 to 11 a.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, March 6

FREE Concert in the Park Good Time Muffin (90’s Rock/Alternative) Northshore Park 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800.

Tuesday, March 8

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-5808

Ad Hoc Transportation Committee Meeting

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 2 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, March 10

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture Hope for Monarchs McCullough Junior High School L.G.I. Lecture Hall 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 11

Kids Night Out

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive 6 to 10 p.m.

281-210-3950

Ages 4 to 10; $30 per child with sibling discount

Saturday, March 12

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Hook, Line and Sinker

Creekwood Park

3383 S. Panther Creek Drive

8 to 10 a.m.

Must register in advance

281-210-3950

Kayaking 101

Riva Row Boat House

9 to 10 a.m.

Ages 10 and older; $40 per person

281-210-3965

Lake Woodlands Scavenger Hunt Riva Row Boat House

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

All ages welcome; $40 solo, $60 tandem kayak.

281-210-3965

Camp Terramont, Saturday March 12

to Sunday March 13

Terramont Park

8500 Terramont Drive

Noon Saturday to 9 a.m. Sunday

Must register in advance

281-210-3950

Arts in the Park featuring Teen Talent Show

Rob Fleming Park

2 to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Live at Night Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, March 13

FREE Concert in the Park

Maydwell (Jazz)

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, March 14

Sunny Dayz Drop-in Camps

Monday, March 14 through

Friday, March 18

The Recreation Center

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ages: 5 to 12

$50 per day, register for all five days and receive a $50 discount.

281-210-3800

Fix-a-Leak Week

See page 25

Thursday, March 17

St. Patrick’s Day

Friday, March 18

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to fifth-, sixth- and seventh-graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, March 19

Creekwood Fishing Derby

Creekwood Park

3383 S. Panther Creek Drive

8 to 10 a.m.

281-210-3950

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Baskets and Bunnies

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

3 p.m.

$20, registration is required. 281-210-3950

Flashlight Egg Hunt

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

$20, registration is required. 281-210-3950

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, March 20

Lake Woodlands Cleanup

Riva Row Boat House

Regular rental rates and rules apply. 281-210-3965

Lake Woodlands Excursion

Riva Row Boat House

9 to 10:30 a.m.

$40 solo, $60 tandem kayak.

Must register in advance

281-210-3965

Brunch with the Bunny

Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive

11 a.m.

$40 per family of four;

$7 each additional person.

Must register in advance.

281-210-3950

To Dye For - Egg Decorating with a Twist

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

2 p.m.

$20 per child.

Must register in advance

281-210-3950

FREE Concert in the Park

London Lawhon (Pop Rock)

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, March 21

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Annual Meeting

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

281-210-3889

Tuesday, March 22

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, March 23

Watch Talk Wednesday Domestic Violence

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township Town Hall 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, March 24

The Bunny Bash

Featuring the Flashlight Egg Hunt

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

$20 per child.

Must register in advance 281-210-3950

Friday, March 25

Good Friday Township Offices Closed

Saturday, March 26

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive 9 a.m.

$40 per family of four; $7 each additional person. Must register in advance 281-210-3950

Lunch with the Easter Bunny

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive Noon

$40 per family of four; $7 each additional person. Must register in advance 281-210-3950

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3800

GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

NO CHANGES IN WASTE SERVICE THIS MONTH. No changes in garbage service this month. Watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

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

For American Heart Association Heartsaver and First Aid classes, please visit the Township calendar located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

Congratulations to the winners of the Village Association Elections! We appreciate your participation in this important election process. We’ll introduce our 2016 – 2017 board at our meeting Tuesday, March 8, 2016, at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our guest speaker will be Gordy Bunch of The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau. All residents are welcome to join us.

The deadline for receipt of completed applications for Alden Bridge scholarships is March 25, 2016, so don’t let this opportunity slip by. Applications can be obtained from school counselors or downloaded from our website at www.aldenbridge.org All Alden Bridge resident students going on to higher education in 2016 are eligible to apply, and we’ll award several $1,000 scholarships. If you have questions, please contact us at scholarships@aldenbridge.org

The Spring Festival, Alden Bridge’s biggest event of the year, hops your way Saturday, March 26, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lakeside Park (next to Buckalew Elementary). We’ll have Easter egg hunts (these are right after 10 a.m., so don’t be late!), rides and activities, music, food, pet adoptions and informative booths. Children can visit with the Easter Bunny, Puffy Pine Cone, the Chick-fil-A cow and other special guests! It’s going to be a great time for the whole family and admission is free. Please contact us at info@aldenbridge.org if you’d like to volunteer and watch the website for the Easter egg hunt time schedule.

Got the volunteer spirit? We need you to represent Alden Bridge at the spring Villages Flea Market coming up at the Pavilion garage (Saturday, April 9, 2016). 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 info@aldenbridge.org for additional

information. This is an early morning event, so you’ll still have all afternoon for your own enjoyment, plus you get the first look at all the great stuff for sale!

Please send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org so we can add you to the mailing list for our monthly email newsletter and visit our Facebook page and website, www.aldenbridge.org, for news of Alden Bridge and The Woodlands.

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

Cochran’s Crossing has 18 board members. If you missed the filing date for the Village Association Elections and would still like to be on the village board, please come to the next village meeting and find out more about participation. The village will meet at 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 22, 2016, at The Woodlands Township Town Hall.

Even if you aren’t looking for village board participation, the March 22 meeting will be a good meeting to attend. Stephen Head, Ph.D., Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of the Lone Star College System will be the speaker for the meeting. For the past 30 years, he has served in a number of high level positions in the Lone Star Community College System.

Dr. Head is charged with carrying out the policies and procedures of the Board of Trustees. He serves as one of the state’s senior advocates for higher education and interacts extensively with elected officials, the business, educational, philanthropic and professional communities and the general public.

Of particular interest to the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association is his focus on student access, equality, success and completion—academic quality, workforce programs in alignment with community

needs and collaborative agreements with educational, business and local civic organizations.

His operational goals include maintaining a sound, fiscally conservative model based on data, efficiencies, accountability and common sense.

Connection with key community leaders and the opportunity for two-way communication are the village association’s goals. The question, “What is the grass roots perspective?” is sometimes asked. When it comes to The Woodlands, it is the responsibility of the Cochran’s Crossing board and the other village associations to provide the answer.

Come by the March meeting and future meetings at 7 p.m. at the Township offices the fourth Tuesday of each month, except December.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

The Water Wise Village Challenge is on, and your participation can put College Park Village in first place this year. Go to the Township’s Environmental Services Department webpage and fill out your online pledge to turn off your sprinkler system until April 15, 2016. Hand watering is allowed.

Water is our most precious natural resource. Let’s all do our part to conserve. Winning villages receive cash incentives that help fund the neighborhood activities you enjoy in College Park. It also funds scholarships that support college-bound students who live in College Park.

Upcoming activities include: Sunday in the Park this spring in Tapestry Park and the annual pool season opening in May!

A recent discussion at our monthly board meeting included street parking concerns in Harper’s Landing. Street parking is not prohibited, but we must all use common sense when parking or when guests come to visit. Please fill up your driveway first. If your guests must park

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

in the street, please encourage them to park on one side only. If you encounter a situation which presents a potential danger, in that emergency vehicles would be unable to pass, please contact our local nonemergency Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office to report your concern immediately.

We also ask our residents to be on the lookout for displaced deer. A foundation of living in The Woodlands is that man and nature can live in harmony. Park rangers also advise that we do not feed the deer.

We remind all residents that it is easy to report a concern. The Township website has an online section: “I want to…” (Report a code violation or other concern, etc.). Please remember it and use it. We live in a wonderful community and are served by a very professional and responsive staff.

Your College Park board is made up of volunteers from the village areas of Grogan’s Forest, Harper’s Landing and Windsor Hills. We look forward to meeting you at upcoming neighborhood events. Or you can join us at our monthly meetings at The Woodlands Township Town Hall every third Monday at 7 p.m.

Submitted by Marti Fox Meerscheidt

Creekside Park

Happy March, Creekside Park Village! Spring is on its way along with Spring Break for the children. If your plans take you out of town for Spring Break, don’t forget to utilize the Vacation Watch Program offered by Harris County Precinct 4 Constables Office. It is a great way to have an extra set of eyes on the area keeping people safe and folks that don’t belong in the area out.

Easter is early this year, and Earth Day will be here in April. What a great time to check on the seedlings you received from the Arbor Day event. Many of the trees in certain areas of the older part of The Woodlands are there due to the commitment of the residents in the area

caring for those seedlings to make The Woodlands what it is today.

The Creekside Park Village Association board is very active in volunteering in many events within the community—by doing so we earn money for our education fund that is distributed to the local schools, which funds gaps in supplies and such needed in the classrooms. One of the events attended this past year was the 3R Bazaar. This event is a great way to learn about how The Woodlands has committed to recycling and what the residents can do to help.

The board previously collected caps and corks, raising hundreds of dollars. This year we have a new challenge: The Oral Care Brigade Teracycle. We have been asked to save all oral care products, which in turn are utilized to make strong plastics such as the plastics you find in children’s playground structures.

MEETING INFORMATION

Submitted by Lisa Purtell

Grogan’s Mill

Returning in April, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association again will be honoring selected residents with Yard of the Month awards, which includes bragging rights in their neighborhood—the coveted Yard of the Month sign and a $50 Randall’s gift certificate. If you know of someone working hard to get their yard in shape or you will be getting your own yard continued on page 20

ALDEN BRIDGE

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!

Website www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Steve Leakey at 281-419-3468.

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Website www.cochranscrossing.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Stuart Schroeder at 936-273-0419.

COLLEGE PARK

The College Park Village Association (CPVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Website www.villageofcollegepark.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Ted Stanley at 936-271-0587.

CREEKSIDE PARK

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association (TWCPVA) usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month. Meetings in October and November will be held on the first Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Lone Star College - Creekside Center, 8747 West New Harmony Trail.

Please join us!

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Nancy Becker at 832-559-7004.

GROGAN’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! Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Contact your program specialist at 281-210-3887.

INDIAN SPRINGS

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!

Website www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Mike Arendes, Mike.Arendes@IndianSpringsVillage.com.

PANTHER CREEK

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! Website www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Everett Ison at 281-298-9524.

STERLING RIDGE

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

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or contact Village Association President Anthony Fasone at sr_twa@hotmail.com.

Bags have been provided to the community to save used oral care products. Please join us at our next meeting Tuesday, April 5, 2016, to pick up a bag or two and start saving!

beautified, please let us know. We will check it out when the flowers and trees start to bloom.

The annual planning meeting for the village association takes place on Sunday, March 6, 2016, at 2 p.m. The board will determine continuing programs, as well as newly proposed projects to finance through the 2016 – 2017 budget. This is an open meeting and all residents are invited to attend. Please email president@gmva.org for the location and more information.

Spring arrives this month, and The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is bursting with over forty active vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, seafood from

the Gulf, artisan cheese, coffee, breads, honey, jams, jellies, pickles, salad dressings, Indian, Italian and Mexican foods and much more, all locally produced and packaged. Stop by and visit us at the Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center at South Millbend and Grogan’s Mill every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Please check out the vendors scheduled to set up by visiting our website at www.grogansmillvillage.com, where you can also sign up for our weekly e-blast.

With rising water rates, make sure your irrigation and sprinklers are in tip-top shape and only water as needed. The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (WJPA) offers a free W.I.S.E. Guy (Water Irrigation System Evaluation) checkup that you can request by calling them at 855-426-7283. It could save you BIG BUCKS! The latest water and sewer rates can be found on The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency website, www.wjpa.org.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

The Indian Springs Village Association is proud to once again offer college tuition scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to select graduating high school seniors. We are a voluntary, elected board, and one

of our functions is to recognize and promote good citizenship and community service. Scholarship applications must be mailed to our post office box or turned in to a high school counselor by March 21, 2016. Please visit our website for more details at www.indianspringsvillage.com

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 senior (includes homeschooled graduates) or recent high school graduate

• Plan to attend an institution of higher learning (two-year, four-year or vocational college) in the fall of 2016.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

Spring brings many new opportunities to Panther Creek residents! Upcoming is the Spring Flea Market, a wonderful opportunity to transform the clutter of last year into cash. For details, please visit www.woodlandsfleamarket.org. Spaces for the sale of your treasurers and valuables can be purchased by calling 281-210-3976.

This month, we will see the resumption of the ever-popular free Concerts in the Park, you can help protect the Panther Creek environment and enhance your yard’s garden by attending a class on composting; attend the free program: The Monarchs’ Best Hope is Still You, presented by Barbara Keller-Willy, Founder and Director Monarch Gateway; take part in a variety of Easter egg events; children can learn how to tie up a line, bait a hook and catch a fish; participate in the free Creekwood Fishing Derby; and help keep The Woodlands beautiful and earn a free kayak rental for loading up a full bag with trash from Lake Woodlands.

For more details on these amazing opportunities, please view the Calendar of Events on The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Your Panther Creek Village Association meets the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, located just off New Trails Drive at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., at 7 p.m. All residents are welcome. If you

moved into The Woodlands to be part of a “Real Home Town,” your village association is one of the best places to get involved without being overloaded. Please visit us anytime at www. PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org. Your area representatives are here to serve you.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

Sterling Ridge residents are sure to fall hook, line and sinker for the Sterling Ridge Village Association’s Second Annual Fishing Tournament. Last year, 18 children competed in two age categories in the fun-filled event at Pepperdale Park. You can find out the date for this year’s fishing tournament and more details on the village website, www.sterling-ridge.org. In all, 57 fish were caught (and released!) last year, with the biggest haul of a 16-inch bass and one super fly. One youngster caught a whopping total of 14 fish.

Residents are reminded that The Fidelity Investments Woodlands Marathon will be held Saturday, March 5, 2016, with a good portion of the 26.2-mile course running through and near Sterling Ridge neighborhoods. There will be traffic delays that morning—some significant, depending on where you need to travel—in regards to the course. More details can be found at www.thewoodlandsmarathon.com

The marathon, a qualifier for the prestigious Boston Marathon, welcomes nearly 9,000 runners, and Sterling Ridge residents are encouraged to come out and cheer the runners home.

With Spring Break coming up for students (the Conroe Independent School District will be out March 14 to 18, 2016), many of you will be hitting the road for family vacations. We encourage you to take advantage of Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office great Vacation Watch program. Patrol deputies will check on the security of your residence while you are out of town. Sign up at www.mocosheriff.com/ vacationdbz.cfm

Sterling Ridge residents are always encouraged to attend our monthly board meetings, which are usually held on the first Tuesday of the month at The Woodlands Township Town Hall at 7 p.m.

Submitted by Dan Sousa

CELEBRATE CHRIST’S RESURRECTION WITH US

Join us this Easter to give thanks to Jesus Christ for the hope His resurrection brings. Choose from a variety of experiences including traditional, contemporary and modern worship styles. We also offer a fun-filled children’s service so kids and their parents can celebrate our risen Savior together.

WORSHIP SERVICES

MAUNDY THURSDAY | MARCH 24

7:30 p.m. | Traditional | Main Sanctuary

GOOD FRIDAY | MARCH 25

Noon and 5:00 p.m. | Traditional | Robb Chapel

7:00 + p.m. | Contemporary | Harvest Worship Center

7:00 + p.m. | Modern | Loft Worship Center

HOLY SATURDAY | MARCH 26

3:00 p.m. | Children’s Service | Main Sanctuary

6:00 p.m. | Modern | Loft Worship Center

EASTER SUNDAY | MARCH 27

8:00, 9:30 and 11:00 + a.m. | Traditional | Main Sanctuary

9:30 and 11:00 a.m. | Traditional | Robb Chapel

9:30 + and 11:00 a.m. | Modern | Loft Worship Center

8:00, 9:30+ and 11:00 a.m.

Contemporary Harvest Worship Center

+ Live streaming online at thewoodlandsumc.org/worship

Are We Following the Hydro-Illogical Cycle in The Woodlands?

By Bob Dailey

The result of a healthy rain season causes many of us to become hydro-illogical when it comes to water conservation.

The hydro-illogical cycle goes like this, “We had a severe drought, but it’s over and we’re getting plenty of rain. Because of that, we don’t have to worry about water conservation any more.” The term was coined by Texas State Meteorologist John NielsenGammon, who also asks the question, “Will the recent rains lead to apathy and disregard for the need to prepare for the next drought?” Drought or no drought, the need to conserve water is a paramount issue, even in our community. Underground aquifers that residents once relied on can no longer sustain our growing population. Surface water supplies, although ample now, are subject to the vicissitudes of the weather. The largest user of water in The Woodlands is lawn irrigation. Overwatering lawns is also the largest waster of water. Water that runs into the street from irrigation sprinklers is an indication

of overwatering. Standing water in the lawn is another. A third indication is the advance of fungal infections—an expensive problem in its own right.

How much water does a lawn need?

During peak summer months (July, August and September), lawns typically need less than an inch of water a week. Based on the water pressure in The Woodlands, that is generally no more than 10 minutes per zone. However, during months when there is sufficient rain, much less, if any, watering is needed. Warm season grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda and Zoysia are dormant in the winter and need no irrigation during cooler months. In fact, irrigation during these months encourages unwanted insects and fungal diseases.

Defined Irrigation Schedule

New residents of The Woodlands may not be aware that lawn irrigation

from an in-ground sprinkler system is only allowed two days a week. Hand-held hoses, sprinkler hoses, hand watering and drip irrigation watering are not affected by the restriction.

Odd-numbered addresses may irrigate from 8 p.m., Tuesdays to 6 a.m., the following morning and from 8 p.m., Fridays to 6 a.m., the following morning.

Even-numbered addresses may irrigate from 8 p.m., Wednesdays to 6 a.m., the following morning and from 8 p.m., Saturdays to 6 a.m., the following morning. Irrigating newly-sodded lawns or landscape renovation require a variance from the MUD.

There may be surcharges incurred for not following the schedule. Although a warning is given for a first infringement, subsequent infringements may incur surcharges from $50 to $200. For more information, please visit The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency at www.wjpa.org.

Photo by Cliff Roe Photography

SPRAYGROUNDS NOW OPEN

Providing Outdoor Family Fun!

With the addition of a new sprayground in Village Green Park, which opened in May of 2015, The Woodlands Township now has five parks with spraygrounds. All spraygrounds, also called splash pads, are now open for the season—March 1 through October 31, 2016, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily. Spraygrounds combine the fun of water play for kids without the danger of standing water, making them ideal for young families and weak swimmers. All of the Township spraygrounds utilize sanitized, chemically-treated water that is tested and monitored daily. Residents are asked to respectfully follow all posted rules for their safety.

The spraygrounds at May Valley, Timarron and Village Green do not require a pool pass or entry fee at any

time. They are conveniently located close to pavilions or seating areas in their respective parks and are popular destinations for birthday parties and other family celebrations.*

The Sawmill and Shadowbend spraygrounds are located adjacent to the Township swimming pools. Outside of pool hours, the spraygrounds are free to use and accessible from the park’s side gates. But during public pool hours, the spraygrounds are closed from the park side and become part of the pool complex in order to make for a safer and more enjoyable environment for all involved. Pool entry requirements apply to these two spraygrounds during public pool hours. For detailed maps and directions to each of the Township parks and pools, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools.

by Karl Shaw

SPRAYGROUNDS ARE LOCATED IN:

MAY VALLEY PARK

in the Village of Sterling Ridge (11598 May Valley Circle, 77354)

SAWMILL PARK

in the Village of Grogan’s Mill (2200 Millpark Drive, 77380)

SHADOWBEND PARK

in the Village of Cochran’s Crossing (4991 Lake Woodlands Drive, 77381)

TIMARRON PARK

in the Village of Creekside Park (550 North Green Print Circle, 77375)

VILLAGE GREEN PARK

in the Village of Creekside Park (26400 Kuykendahl Drive, 77389)

*Please be courteous to your fellow residents and note that pavilion rentals do not guarantee use of the sprayground for private events.

TIMARRON

MAY VALLEY

VILLAGE GREEN

SHADOWBEND

SAWMILL

CHECK & REPAIR It’s Fix-a-Leak Week!

By Lucinda Valdes

Drip… drip… drip…, we all recognize the annoying sound that signals a leaky faucet. Leaks can take years to develop or occur suddenly, requiring immediate attention. One thing that all leaks have in common is wasted water and an increased water bill!

During Fix-a-Leak Week, March 14 to 20, 2016, local home improvement and hardware stores will spotlight tips, tools and fixtures that save water, from simple repairs to full do-it-yourself replacement projects.

Start looking for leaks inside the home—check toilets, faucets and showerheads. A leaky toilet might simply require replacement of a faulty flapper. Leaky faucets may need new washers and gaskets. Most leaky showerheads can be fixed by tightening the connection with pipe tape and a wrench. Even the smallest repair can save homeowners up to 10 percent on water bills, according the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Even more water savings can be realized by replacing aged fixtures, toilets and appliances with newer WaterSense certified models. Replacing an inefficient, older toilet with a WaterSense model could save 13,000 gallons of water a year.

Outside the home, spigots, garden hoses and irrigation systems should be checked this month. A leak in an irrigation system—as small as 1/32 of an inch in diameter, about the thickness of a dime— can waste 6,300 gallons of water per month. Take advantage of do-it-yourself repair workshops at hardware stores or contact your water provider to schedule a free irrigation system evaluation through the Wise Guy program.

For more information about water conservation, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ waterconservation, or contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

JUST DO ONE THING

By Kathy Coffman

SHELTERING

In a disaster you may be asked to either evacuate or shelter-in-place. In the excitement of an emergency, it can be difficult to focus on what you are doing. Know what to do to keep your family safe. Practice your tornado and fire safety plans. If your family has practiced, they will be more comfortable if the emergency actually happens.

Identify the best storm shelter in your home and practice getting to the shelter with your family.

• Stay away from windows and skylights.

• Shelter “down and in,” putting as many walls between yourself and the outside as you can.

• Avoid rooms with large ceiling expanses.

• Find an area large enough for everyone to stay comfortably for at least 45 minutes.

Learn to safely shelter-in-place.

In an emergency like a chemical spill, you may be told to “shelter-in-place.” This means to make the place where you are a safe place to stay until the danger has passed. Shelter in place orders are given when it would be dangerous for you to go outside.

If you are told to shelter in place you should close all doors and windows, and shut off fans and air conditioners. Take your family to a room with as few doors and windows as possible. You may be told to put towels, tape or plastic sheeting around the cracks of the windows and doors.

Follow emergency instructions carefully. Make sure you take a battery-powered radio with you so that you will know when the danger has passed. Power in your area may be shut off during the incident.

Make a Go Bag for emergency sheltering.

Emergency shelters will be opened when people are displaced from their homes. In most areas, emergency shelters are operated by the American Red Cross. Be sure you have a Go Bag ready that includes medications and other items you may need if you were to go to a shelter.

Proceeds

HOPE FOR

Monarchs

Journeying from remote mountain areas in Mexico, monarch butterflies stop in Texas to lay eggs, producing the next generation that will continue the long migration northward. Each fall, the wondrous pattern reverses as the butterfly returns to its wintering grounds.

On Thursday, March 10, 2016, at 7:30 p.m., Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture Series presents The Monarchs’ Best Hope is Still You! with Barbara Keller-Willy, Founder and Director of Monarch Gateway. The Texas state insect, monarch butterflies captivate the imagination. “Historically, the monarch belongs to us. We can help to ensure the species continues to be in our community,” says Mrs. Keller-Willy.

Like all butterflies, monarchs in all life stages—from egg to adult—depend

By Lucinda Valdes

Each spring, The Woodlands landscape plays a small role in one of nature’s most amazing events— the magical odyssey of the monarch butterfly.

on plants. Concerns for the future of monarchs focus on the availability of the specific plants, or habitat, that the butterfly requires for survival. While adult butterflies feed on a variety of nectar-producing flowers, monarch caterpillars consume and develop exclusively on Asclepias, plants in the milkweed family. Learn how to help monarch conservation efforts by creating and caring for a garden, even on a small scale, that provides the essentials.

Barbara Keller-Willy reveals the magic of monarch butterflies, their life cycle, migration and conservation efforts at the next Walk in Woods Nature Lecture hosted in the L.G.I. Lecture Hall at McCullough Junior High School, 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive. A free program of The Woodlands Township, the series is sponsored by

Waste Management, The Woodlands

G.R.E.E.N. and Nature’s Way Resources. For more information, please contact the Township’s Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/wildlife

Monarch photo by Anita Wren

MOSQUITO CONTROL

Do’s and Don’t’s for Homeowners

For most of us, mosquitoes are mere annoyances —an unfortunate fact of life in our wooded community. However, the spread of Zika virus, West Nile virus and other mosquito-borne diseases increases the importance of minimizing their numbers and preventing bites. While the risk of contracting a virus from a mosquito bite is very low and the risk of suffering severe symptoms is even lower, it’s still wise to reduce your chances of getting bitten; not to mention, to keep these pests from ruining your next barbeque. Here are the Do’s and Don’t’s in the battle against mosquitoes.

DO: Take personal precautions. Wear long, light-colored, loose clothing and apply repellent! Oil of lemon eucalyptus and picaridin are effective alternatives to DEET, which should never be applied to your skin.

DO: Use Mosquito Dunks® and Bits® when standing water cannot be eliminated. These non-toxic, biological controls are effective, inexpensive and available at most hardware stores.

DO: Eliminate all standing water around your house on a weekly basis.

Mosquitoes breed in standing water—a single capful can produce hundreds! Check meter boxes, tarps, tires, plant pots, clogged gutters and anything and everything in your yard that holds water.

by John Geiger

including mosquito predators. They can also dispense non-lethal doses, leading to pesticide resistance. Health risks to humans and pets are a concern as well.

DON’T: Use bug zappers, ultrasonic devices, coils or citronella candles. None of these devices have proven effective at reducing mosquito populations. Bug zappers kill insects that prey on mosquitoes.

Preventing MosquitoBorne Disease

March 31, 2016 • 7:30 p.m.

McCullough Jr. High School

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

DON’T: Overwater your lawn. Lawns in our region require no more than one inch of water per week. Use a rain gauge to avoid overwatering which creates breeding sites on your property and in nearby storm drains. Plus, you’ll save money and enjoy a healthier lawn!

DON’T: Use backyard mister systems. These systems often over-dispense chemicals, killing beneficial insects

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP AQUATICS TEAM NOW HIRING!

By Karl Shaw

Do you enjoy being outdoors, staying active, swimming, working with your friends and caring for others? If so, then The Woodlands Township has a job for you!

The Woodlands Township is now hiring lifeguards, swim instructors, swim coaches, lifeguard leadership positions and more. We have tons of great incentive programs and staff outings, including travel to lifeguard competitions, leading the excitement on Splash Day on the Fourth of July and an end-of-season party.

For more information about employment with The Woodlands Township, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Dr. Rudy Bueno, former Director of Harris County Mosquito Control and Justin Fausek, Montgomery County Precinct 3 Mosquito Abatement, will provide the latest information on Zika virus, West Nile and other mosquito-borne diseases and how The Woodlands Township and Precinct 3 are addressing the situation.

CUL-DE-SAC ISLANDS GET NEW LOOK

By Perry Frank

Last year, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors approved an annual maintenance of more than 1,400 cul-de-sac islands in The Woodlands. This program is for the small cul-de-sacs with islands of less than 3,400 square feet in area. A reforestation of selected areas has also been approved for 385 of these islands, and is part of the total $280,000 budget for reforestation in The Woodlands.

From the end of November to the end of February, new trees have been planted in selected small cul-de-sac islands, consisting of a mix of loblolly pines, wax myrtles, yaupon and a variety of oaks. By establishing the native growth of a natural forest setting, maintenance of these islands should require minimal effort in pruning and weeding, while also helping to absorb heat and sound.

To help ensure the healthy growth of these new trees, residents in the cul-de-sacs with reforested islands are encouraged to make sure these trees get plenty of water during the first year to establish a hearty root foundation for healthy tree growth.

Annual mowing and trimming maintenance will occur from April to June, and the Brickman Group is currently contracted to provide the services for three years. The jumbo cul-de-sac islands larger than 3,400 square feet are on a different maintenance schedule of 11 times per year, and will also be maintained by the Brickman Group. For more information on neighborhood cul-de-sacs in The Woodlands, please visit the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/culdesac

Active on the Pathways

Adopt-a-Path Stewards say, “Don’t Mess with Texas” year-round!

ALDEN BRIDGE Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agent; Cub Scout Pack 886; Cub Scout Pack 889; The McCanns; Steve and Judy Easton; The Woodlands High School Business Professionals of America

COCHRAN’S CROSSING LSC-Montgomery Mavericks, Orvis The Woodlands, Roger Howard, The Woodlands High School Science National Honor Society

COLLEGE PARK The Dunseith Family

CREEKSIDE PARK Redshirts – The Samaia Family

GROGAN’S MILL Molly Anne and Robin Davis, Scott Marzano, The Stubblefield Family

INDIAN SPRINGS Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III, Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK American Heritage Girls, The Klein Family, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Rowing Club of The Woodlands, Sally K Ride Elementary School, Steph’s Pet Sitting, The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church, Wyatt Hall for Woodlands Christian

STERLING RIDGE Charles and Donna Moseley, The Bell Family, The Devitt Family, The Kounthapanya Family, The Kunder Family, Texas Laurels NCL

RESEARCH FOREST Houston Advanced Research Center, Ron Keichline and Huntsman colleagues, Woodlands Rugby Club

*per Keep America Beautiful one 33-gallon bag is estimated to weigh 20 pounds. **1 cubic yard=202 gallons.

Adopt-a-path stewards activity report September to December 2015

35 groups

+ 559 volunteer hours

+ 3,195 gallons of trash

1,936 pounds*

16 cubic yards of trash**

The equivalent of 32 of our curbside trash carts.

A natural forested environment helps absorb heat and sound while making for minimal maintenance in neighborhood cul-de-sacs.

A blast from the past! The Bell Family has been active on the pathways for four years. DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS!

Arts in the Park with Teen Talent Show

By Lauren Miller

Saturday, March 12, 2016, 2 to 6 p.m. at Rob Fleming Park Arts in the Park is entering its eighth year in The Woodlands with free family fun, featuring visual, performance, culinary and kid-friendly art! Bring your lawn chairs and picnic supplies, and come enjoy a lovely spring afternoon, full of food, art, entertainment and shopping!

PERFORMANCE ART: Calling all talented teens: Arts in the Park wants to see you perform on stage! The Teen Talent Show features singers, dancers, comedians, actors and magicians, as well as other individual and group acts. Teens 12 to 18 will audition to showcase their skills by competing on stage at The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park, in front of hundreds of people.

VISUAL ART: Local artisans will exhibit their handmade art, including woodwork, photography, paintings, crafts, jewelry, children’s clothing, artisan foods, accessories for your four-legged friends and more! Attendees can purchase these one-of-a-kind works of art, made by talented local artists. Are you an artist looking for a venue to sell or showcase your craft? For the vendor application form and additional information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ artsinthepark.

KID-CENTERED ART: Arts in the Park is known for its Kids’ Zone, full of different crafts perfect for your budding little artist. The Arts in the Park Kids’ Zone features inflatables, crafts and more!

CULINARY ART: Check out the current pop-up restaurant craze sweeping Houston and tons of other major cities! Food trucks offer anything from cupcakes and ethnic menus to fusion and gourmet cuisine.

2016 SPRING CONCERT SERIES

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

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

Concert in the Park is produced by The Woodlands Township. Admission is free. Blankets, lawn chairs, pets and coolers are permitted.

March 6 Good Time Muffin (90’s Rock/Alternative)

March 13 Maydwell (Jazz)

March 20 London Lawhon (Pop Rock)

April 3 Rock-A-Fellas (Classic Rock)

April 10 Bobby D. Sawyer Band (Country)

April 17 Subdivided (Rush Tribute)

Additional concert-time events held in conjunction with Concert in the Park. Onsite supplies and spaces are limited.

March 13 Spring Break Spectacular

Kick start your spring break with Sunday fun on a giant slide.

March 20 Easter EGGstravaganza

ADMISSION TOURS

april 20 • 9 am | or by appointment

Take pictures with the Easter Bunny and enjoy Easter crafts.

April 10 Fifth Annual Sand Castle Building Contest

You bring the shovels, we’ll bring the sand.

Photo by Perry Frank

Follow Township Transit on Twitter

The Woodlands Township Transit Department has begun using Twitter to efficiently and effectively provide important information to the traveling public. The department’s official account— @TownshipTransit—alerts transit customers of service changes, touts promotional activities and keeps followers up-to-date with Township Transit happenings. Information about The Woodlands Express, the Waterway Trolley and seasonal transportation services are provided on a daily basis.

By Ashley Gravois

Additionally, the Township Transit Department routinely provides followers with traffic information for the IH-45 north corridor and around The Woodlands area by linking information from Houston TranStar and Montgomery County Northstar.

The account is typically monitored on weekdays during regular business hours. For specific questions or service issues, please call the Township at 281-210-3800 or complete an online contact us form at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of

Kitchen & Bath See

retractable awnings

Beautiful

LivE Cooking Demos

Cunningham Gas Products

Outdoor Cooking Stage

Beer & Wine TASTING Cycler’s Brewing Craft Beer and Fall Creek Vineyards

Outdoor Living

Gardening

Meet Randy Lemmon of GardenLine

Home Building Stage

Great

from building and remodeling professionals

Design advice

MeetColor Expert, Kate Smith

Beautiful Fountains