March 2018

SPRAYGROUNDS ARE NOW OPEN

The Woodlands Township HONORS VOLUNTEERS

EARTH DAY GREENUP 2018

HOUSTON METHODIST THE WOODLANDS HOSPITAL WELCOMES DR. RAJESH VENKATARAMAN

Dr. Rajesh Venkataraman is board certified in cardiac electrophysiology, cardiovascular disease and general medicine. His expertise includes ablation procedures, arrhythmia surgery, left atrial appendage occlusion and pacemakers.

In 2017, Dr. Venkataraman brought the world’s smallest pacemaker — Micra®

Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS) — to Houston Methodist The Woodlands.

THE WOODLANDS HEART TEAM SPECIALIZES IN CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS INCLUDING:

• Angiograms

• Angioplasty

• Aortic aneurysm

• Cardiovascular disease

• Carotid artery disease

• Chest pain

• Cholesterol management

• Chronic limb ischemia

• Coronary artery disease

• Heart failure

• Heart catheterization

• Heart valve disease

• Hypertension

• Interventional cardiology

• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

• Ischemic heart disease

• Myocardial infarction

• Pacemaker

• Peripheral vascular disease

• Preventative cardiology

• Research/clinical trials

• Rob otic and general surgery

• Stents

Visit houstonmethodist.org/online-scheduling to easily schedule your next appointment.

Cardiothoracic

From left:

Ali Rizvi, MD, Interventional Cardiology

Lucas Duvall, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgery

Ali Ayoubi, MD, Interventional Cardiology

Paul Cunningham III, MD Interventional Cardiology

Rajesh Venkataraman, MD Cardiology/Electrophysiology

THE WOODLANDS TEAM

Dr. Rajesh Venkataraman Cardiology/Electrophysiology

6

8

32

On the Cover

Don’t

a great opportunity to meet up and celebrate with neighbors, family and friends, and help keep The Woodlands clean and beautiful at the same time. Please see page 10 for information on how you can become a part of this Township tradition.

3

18

Cover

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

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

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

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

message from the woodlands township board of directors

Summary of Accomplishments

The Woodlands Township began 2018 in excellent financial condition while maintaining the tax rate of 23 cents per $100 of property valuation, the lowest rate in the history of the community. The 2017 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. The summary notes that the Township Board of Directors took a number of actions in 2017 to improve the Township’s overall financial condition and to assure the continuation of high-quality services:

• The Board authorized the release of a request for qualifications and proposals for governance and incorporation planning services. A study is anticipated to begin in early 2018. In addition, the Board continued to fund an Incorporation Reserve to provide financial planning for the potential transition of The Woodlands Township from a special purpose district to an incorporated city.

• Responded to the damaging effects of Hurricane Harvey on residents of The Woodlands by partnering with Waste Management to expedite the removal of storm debris. The Drainage Task Force, which was created by the Board in 2016, met seven times in 2017.

• Approved a partnership with Mobike to bring dockless bike-sharing to The Woodlands. This innovative program is the first of its kind to be offered in the Houston region.

• Authorized the initial stages for implementation of Phase I and Phase III of the Master Plan updates to Bear Branch Park, which include reconstruction of the recreational pool, additional parking and ingress/egress improvements.

• Completed the renovation of Northshore Park, which included major reconstruction or renovation of all facilities at the park. Opened The Woodforest Bank Boat House in partnership with Woodforest Bank Charitable Trust, the Rowing Club of The Woodlands and Parati Competitive Rowing.

• Approved the 2018 budget, prioritizing public safety and community maintenance while responding to resident requests for enhanced parks and recreation amenities and pedestrian and bike plan improvements.

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.

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Brian Boniface Director

John McMullan Vice Chairman

Bruce Rieser Director

Dr. Ann Snyder Secretary Position

Carol Stromatt Director Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer Position No. 3

The Woodlands

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

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

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Emily Wright

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

6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G Houston, Texas 77069 281-583-7661

www.championsprinting.com

Editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX, 77381, telephone 281-210-3800. Editorial deadlines are the 15th of every month, approximately six weeks in advance of publication. The editors reserve all rights to accept or reject any submissions and reserve all rights to edit for clarity and space. The Woodlands Community Magazine is the official information source of The Woodlands Township. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the activities of the Township and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the Township takes precedence over information submitted by any other source.

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

The Township Honors Volunteers for their spirit of service

By Kacie Gurney

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors honored more than 200 volunteers at the annual Spirit of Service reception on Wednesday, January 24, 2018, at The Woodlands Township.

“The true spirit of volunteerism abounds in The Woodlands,” said Chairman of the Board Gordy Bunch, as he welcomed the group and thanked the many volunteers for their service.

“Our volunteers have contributed thousands of hours of challenging work, putting aside their own needs, to provide for the needs of our community, helping it to stay strong, sustainable and connected.”

– Township Chairman Gordy Bunch

The Township honored several individuals with Volunteer of the Year awards in recognition of their distinguished service throughout 2017. Volunteer of the Year awards went to Alana Ashley for Covenant Administration, Tundi, Nicole and Ariel Devitt for Environmental Services, Tim Golding and Bruce Morris for The Woodlands Fire Department, Darla Bell for Community Relations and Stephen Terni for Neighborhood Watch.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors also recognized Steve Leakey, Deborah Sargeant, Chris Florack and Ken Anderson with proclamations for their outstanding community service and leadership. Also receiving recognition were members of CERT: The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team Committee, Development Standards Committee, Law Enforcement Advisory Council, Parks and Recreation Advisory

Council, Residential Design Review Committees, Visit The Woodlands Board of Directors and Marketing Committee and all eight Village Associations.

The Township would like to thank all the volunteers for their service and commitment to keeping The Woodlands a vibrant and connected community. A complete list of volunteers who were recognized for their Spirit of Service appears on the following page.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors honored the Volunteers of the Year at a special reception on January 24, 2018. Left to right: Director Carol Stromatt, Treasurer John Anthony Brown, Darla Bell, Vice Chairman John McMullan, Bruce Morris, Chairman Gordy Bunch, Tim Golding, Alana Ashley, Stephen Terni, Director Brian Boniface, Secretary Dr. Ann Snyder, and Director Bruce Rieser.

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM COMMITTEE

Ed Commender

Jim Ritter

DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS COMMITTEE

Walter Lisiewski

Deborah Sargeant

Ken Anderson John Anderson

LAW ENFORCEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL

Mike Bakewell

Steve Bouck

Edmund Chapman

Richard Derr

PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

Charles Abell

Maryann Braid

John Anthony Brown

Anthony Fasone

you for Your Spirit of Service in 2017

Thank

Virginia Hill

Tom Howard

Denise Judy

Dan Kolkhorst

RESIDENTIAL DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEES

Alden Bridge

Arthur Bredehoft, Chair

John Passero, Vice Chair

Claude Hunter

Pilar Sanz-Rogers

Randy Schulze

Cochran’s Crossing

Jim Goldmeyer, Chair

Gerard Raap, Vice Chair

Ron Hughes

Zack Lowe

John Truhe

VISIT THE WOODLANDS

Board of Directors

Bruce Rieser, Chair

John Anthony Brown

Vice Chair

Fred Domenick

Secretary/Treasurer

VILLAGE ASSOCIATIONS

Alden Bridge

Steve Leakey, President

Maryann Braid, V. President

Darla Bell, Secretary

Lauren Esposito, Treasurer

John A. Brown

Mike Cannetti

Juan Castellanos

Loretta Colchin

Chuck Hoffheiser

Claude Hunter

Liah Olson

John A. Robertson

Greg Sherlock

Kendrick Skipper

Natalie Swanson

Theresa Wagaman

Carey Yeager

Adele Yung

Carrie Karr

Cochran’s Crossing

Stuart Schroeder, President

Jennifer Graff, V. President

Gary Conwell, Secretary

Jim Goldmeyer, Treasurer

Serafin “Sef” Farias

Beverly Fennessy

Todd Graff

Richie Spurlock

Chris Florack

Ron Harris

Anthony Fasone

Chuck Hoffheiser

Marti Meerscheidt

Steve Perry

Mindy Reynolds

Michael Saucier

College Park

Roger McDonald, Chair

Theodore “Ted” Stanley, Vice Chair

George Gitzendanner

Jake Miller

Michael “Mike” Larson

Creekside Park

Mike Ramsey, Chair

Jennifer Mares, Vice Chair

Manfred Berretz

Sally Epton

Brian Boniface

J.J. Hollie

Don Norrell

Kevin Viteri

Phil Greger

Doug Grijalva

J.C. Harville

Charlie Keene

Cynthia Kessinger

Jennifer Kraus

Zack Lowe

Stephen Perry

Lori Riley

Bert Wagner

Dabney Wisenbaker

College Park

Ted Stanley, President

Mike Larson, V. President

Marti Meerscheidt, Secretary/Interim Treasurer

Dave Mulberry, Area Representative/Former Treasurer

Joel Barnes

Steve La Motta

Jake Miller

Ken Morris

Johanne Stanley

Creekside Park

Nancy Becker, President

Sue Tedesco, V. President

Lindsay Germano, Secretary

Grogan’s Mill

Alana Ashley, Chair

Sharon DeMarsais, Vice Chair

Edmund W. Chapman

Virginia Hill

Bob Leilich

Indian Springs - TWA

Russell Heinen, Chair

Shanna Davis, Vice Chair

Dawn Brubaker

Ken Schumann

Richard Stromatt

Marketing Committee

Catherine Beyt

Amy Everitt

Ted Harris

Cameron Klepac

Lorrie Parise

Mike Becker, Treasurer

Charles Abell

Mike Casey

Melissa D’mello

Sally Epton

Jerry King

Wendy Lambie

Lisa Purtell

Mike Ramsey

Scott Tyson

Isaac Segovia

Sarah Segovia

Leanne Tarleton

Grogan’s Mill

Marie Brannen, President

Bruce Cunningham, V. President

Edmund W. Chapman, Secretary

Bob Leilich, Treasurer

Sara Bissig

Virginia Dellinger

Mitzi Fredrick

Jane Georges

Pat Goodpastor

Virginia Hall

Pat Moritz

Steve Potlock

Dewey Lockwood Steve Perry

Ken Schumann

Kelly Sharer

Carol Stromatt Adele Yung

Indian Springs - WCA

Michael Kravetz, Chair

Steven Gallia, Vice Chair

John Leftwich

Shirley Leftwich

James Merritt

Panther Creek

Everett Ison, Vice Chair

Kenneth Berntsen

Thomas Costello

Kristen Hanlin

Rennie van Wyk

Kim Phillips

Noemi Gonzalez

Jenny Taylor

Jayson Garcia

Theresa Gramalich

Jennifer Robinson

Jody Ronzio

Mike Tabbert

John Yoars

Indian Springs

Mike Arendes, President

Kelly Sharer, V. President

Alan Neely, Secretary

Thomas Brown, Treasurer

Erika Bondy-Pratt

Shanna Davis

Russell Heinen

Matt Pounders

Enrique Rosero

Michael Saucier

Ken Shumann

Richie Spurlock

Carol Stromatt

Richard Stromatt

Panther Creek

Everett Ison, President

Dan Lewis, V. President

Denise Judy, Secretary

Kimberly Lewis, Treasurer

Kevin Currey

Andrew Freeman

Paul Gebolys

Randall Kruchten

Lisa Purtell

Ted Stanley

Sterling Ridge

Jaydean Tullos, Chair

George Newman, Vice Chair

Gordan Craig

Mia Nguyen

Patricia Van Otterdyk

Brian Leavitt

Walter Lisiewski

Gene Lochridge

Dewey Lockwood

Hartley Mackintosh

Damon Palermo

Mindy Reynolds

Charlie Tunal

Synda Wilson

Stephanie Zertuche

Sterling Ridge

Patrick Graham, President

Tim Hjort, V. President

Amy Wilkinson, Secretary

Janean Germany, Treasurer

Natalia Arjona

Butch Ashman

Feyi Bassir

Gary Dempsey

Anthony Fasone

June Kolesar

Patrick Sansotta

Klynda Shaw

Dan Sousa

Sue Young

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival Art, Entertainment, Food and Fun Await!

Mark your calendars now for The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, set for April 7 and 8, 2018, at Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway. More than 200 juried artists will showcase their

original works of art in a wide variety of mediums including painting, drawing, photography, jewelry, glass, clayworks and more. Enjoy live music and entertainment on four stages, Artopoly children’s educational activities, the Student Art Exhibition, the Art of Food, a craft beer garden and delicious delights from a selection of local restaurants.

This year, the festival welcomes an extraordinary oil painter as Featured Artist. Erin Hanson creates vibrant and evocative paintings that are showstoppers. She began studying art as a young girl in California, showing precocious talent. She received a high school art scholarship to Otis College of Art, immersing herself in figure drawing. Graduating from high school at age 16, Hanson attended UC Berkeley, excelling in her creative development while attaining a degree in Bioengineering.

After graduation, Hanson entered the art field, inspired by landscapes and vantage points only viewed by the most adventurous. Her experience of

rock climbing at Red Rock Canyon led to a maturation of her style which takes inspiration from the forces of nature.

For the past decade, Erin has developed a unique, minimalist technique of placing impasto paint strokes without layering, known as “Open-Impressionism.” She is credited as the pioneer and originator of this contemporary style.

Her works are in museum collections from California to Connecticut. She has exhibited in galleries and festivals throughout the U.S., winning many awards and accolades. In addition, she has lectured, published three books and fulfilled many corporate commissions.

Hanson is creating a collection of Texas landscapes for the 2018 Arts Festival, bringing a fresh look through abstract mosaics of color and texture.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.TheWoodlandsArtsCouncil.org

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is pleased to announce Erin Hanson as the Featured Artist for 2018.

CELEBRATE WITH US

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

MAUNDY THURSDAY — MARCH 29

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

GOOD FRIDAY — MARCH 30

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

5:45 p.m. | Dinner | Loft Worship Center

7:00+ p.m. | M odern | Loft Worship Center

5:00 and 7:00+ p.m. | Contemporary | Harvest Worship Center

HOLY SATURDAY — MARCH 31

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

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

EASTER SUNDAY — APRIL 1

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+, 11:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. | Contemporary | Harvest Worship Center +Live streaming online at thewoodlandsumc.org/worship

for Loft Good Friday Dinner at

New Technology Makes Over-Irrigation a Concern of the Past

By Bob Dailey, WJPA

In2017, residents of The Woodlands needed to irrigate their lawns only 12 weeks out of the year. Sounds unrealistic? Not with new information and technologies developed by Texas A&M and research conducted by other universities.

Now, A&M turf experts can track needs of turf grass by on-thespot testing of various environmental factors which directly affect lawn irrigation. These factors include rainfall, humidity, temperature, solar exposure, soil moisture and wind velocity. A&M currently operates 56 evapotranspiration testing locations across the state.

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency’s (WJPA) system takes in rainfall information from locations in the county, including some strategically located in The Woodlands.

Using a series of equations, the systems calculate the amount of water needed in a geographical area of the state for a variety of turf grasses.

Warm season turf grasses, such as St. Augustine, Zoysia and Bermuda, flourish in southeast Texas. Other grasses, such as fescue, buffalo grass and Kentucky bluegrass flourish in the colder parts of the state.

To accurately provide irrigation information to residents, the WJPA maintains rainwater collection devices that communicate daily to an evapotranspiration system (ET system) managed by the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District. Using the Texas A&M equations to calculate how much extra water is needed for turf grass in The Woodlands, the system then relays the information back to WJPA. That info is then transmitted, via weekly emails, to residents. (If you aren’t on the email list and wish to be, please access the WJPA home page at www.wjpa.org and sign up.)

Full-blown ET systems are expensive. One thing residents don’t know, though, is that they can install a “mini-ET station,” also known as a

“smart controller” set up to receive all the evapotranspiration information, link it to their irrigation system and stop worrying about how much they should irrigate their lawns.

These smart controllers automatically receive data from the Texas A&M ET stations, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other ET stations, convert the information into your specific turf irrigation needs, and automatically set your irrigation system accordingly. These can even be set to operate your irrigation system on your designated watering day.

The new stations are inexpensive, can be operated remotely from PCs, laptops and even smart phones and can save substantially on water costs. One perk that residents in The Woodlands served by the WJPA is that they can receive a 50 percent rebate on the purchase and installation of one of these systems (up to $150). The rebate can be substantial. With many home ET stations costing less than $300, a 50 percent rebate would pay for half the cost. The rebates are deducted from the resident’s water bill.

Rebates are available on a wide variety of water saving devices. In-home ET stations, smart controllers, rain water harvesting systems and drip irrigation are also available to residents. For more information, call the WJPA at 855-h2o-save (855-426-7283).

NOTE: The above article was provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, www.wjpa.org

WJPA rainwater stations located in The Woodlands relay data to Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District’s ET center, which, using WJPA data as well as soil moisture, relative humidity, wind velocity and direction, solar penetration and other figures, interprets the data and sends it back to WJPA, for distribution to our residents.

KEEP YOUR HEALTH ON TRACK WITH HOUSTON METHODIST PRIMARY CARE

Houston Methodist provides the care you need to keep you and your family healthy. From regular checkups to more complex concerns, our board-certified doctors offer expertise and access to our network of world-class specialists.

Many of our practices offer:

• Online scheduling

• Most major insurance plans accepted

• Same-day appointments

• Convenient locations

Visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713.394.6638 to schedule an appointment.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP Neighborhood Watch Village Challenge

The Village Challenge for Hands-Only CPR is underway! The Township Neighborhood Watch has teamed up with The Woodlands Fire Department, Montgomery County Hospital District and the American Heart Association to offer Hands-Only CPR training opportunities. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training is also included.

The training events are held at each of the fire stations located in The Woodlands (see schedule at right.) The training events are drop-in and only take about 20 minutes. Training events also include blood pressure checks and a raffle to be a “Doctor for a Day” by CHI St. Luke’s Hospital, crime prevention information presented by the Township Neighborhood Watch, nutrition and heart health information presented by the American Heart Association and information from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The village associations with the top three percentages of residents trained will receive a cash donation for their scholarship fund from Woodlands North Houston Heart Center.

Additional trainings can be scheduled for your group, organization or business based on availability of training staff and

equipment. For more information, contact neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800.

MARCH 24, 2018 1 to 3 p.m.

STATION 6 1100 Windsor Lakes Blvd.

APRIL 7, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 4 7900 Bay Branch Dr.

APRIL 7, 2018 2 to 4 p.m.

STATION 2 9303 Gosling Rd.

APRIL 14, 2018 10 a.m. to Noon

STATION 8 11800 Gosling Rd.

APRIL 14, 2018 2 to 4 p.m.

STATION 5 ........... 10100 Branch Crossing Dr.

Photo by Susan Martin

Mobike makes getting around The Woodlands easy, convenient and a ordable. Just do this and you’re good to go:

1. Download the app to your phone.

2. Use the app to nd a Mobike close to you.

3. Unlock the bike with your phone.

4. Ride as long as you want, then lock it for others to use

5. Pay attention to the cost — just $1 per half-hour

March 2018

Thursday, March 1

Residential Design Review Committee Meeting*

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-5808

Friday, March 2

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive 7 to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, March 3

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

11th Annual Creekwood Fishing Derby

This free event, sponsored by The Woodlands Professional Firefighters Association, will be on Saturday, March 17, 2018, from 8 to 10 a.m. at Creekwood Park, 3383 S. Panther Creek Drive, The Woodlands, TX, 77381. No registration required. More information is available by calling 281-210-3950.

*For updates and additional information, please view the complete Township calendar online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendarofevents.

Every Saturday in March

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) www.grogansmillvillage.com

10 and Under Tennis Tournament Bear Branch Park 5200 Research Forest Drive 9 a.m.

281-210-3950

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

281-210-3800

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, March 4

FREE Concert in the Park See page 19.

Tuesday, March 6

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-3889

Wednesday, March 7

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, March 8

Residential Design Review Committee Meeting*

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-3800

Friday, March 9

Family Game Night – Board Games

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. $5 per person

281-516-7348

Saturday, March 10

3rd Annual Mother-Daughter Tea

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

$40 per pair, $10 additional sibling 281-516-7348

Arts in the Park

Rob Fleming Park 6055 Creekside Forest Drive 2 to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, March 11

FREE Concert in the Park

See page 19.

Monday, March 12

Sunny Dayz Spring Drop-In Camp

See page 14.

Tuesday, March 13

Sunny Dayz Spring Drop-In Camp

See page 14.

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, March 14

Sunny Dayz Spring Drop-In Camp

See page 14.

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-363-2447

Thursday, March 15

Sunny Dayz Spring Drop-In Camp

See page 14.

Friday, March 16

Sunny Dayz Spring Drop-In Camp

See page 14.

Saturday, March 17

11th Annual Creekwood Fishing Derby

Creekwood Park

3383 S. Panther Creek Drive

8 to 10 a.m.

281-210-3950

Sunday, March 18

Fly Casting Clinic

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

1 to 4 p.m.

281-210-3950

FREE Concert in the Park

See page 19.

Monday, March 19

Grogan’s Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, March 21

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, March 22

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, March 23

Flashlight Egg Hunt

Terramont Park

8500 Terramont Drive

7:45 to 9:15 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, March 24

Earth Day GreenUp 2018

See page 10.

Kayak Easter Egg Hunt

Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

9 to 10:30 a.m.

281-210-3965

Brunch with the Bunny

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

10 to 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3950

Camp Terramont

Terramont Park

8500 Terramont Drive

Noon to 9 a.m. on March 25, 2018

281-210-3950

Egg Decorating with a Twist

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

1 to 2:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Hands-Only CPR Village Challenge

See page 14.

Egg Adventure featuring Scavenger Hunt

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

4 to 5:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Sunday, March 25

7th Annual Sand Castle Building Contest

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

FREE Concert in the Park

See page 19.

Flashlight Egg Hunt

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Tuesday, March 27

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

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

281-210-3887

Wednesday, March 28

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

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

281-210-3800

Thursday, March 29

Flashlight Egg Hunt

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Friday, March 30

Breakfast with the Bunny

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 9 to 10:30 a.m.

281-210-3950

Lunch with the Bunny

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive Noon to 1:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, March 31

11 and Over Tennis Tournament Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive Noon to 5 p.m.

281-210-3950

Alden Bridge

It’s going to be a busy month in Alden Bridge – try to join us for at least one of the activities that are happening in March!

For starters, you’ll see us waving and hear us cheering at The Woodlands Marathon on March 3, 2018. If you’re running, look for our Alden Bridge cheer group and DJ Sky Mike along the route at Bay Branch and Kuykendahl near St. Anthony of Padua Church. If you aren’t running, come join us at our corner and cheer on your friends and neighbors. The leading runners zip by about 7:30 a.m., but we start to set up about 6 a.m.

Congratulations to all the winners of last month’s Village Association elections! Thanks for voting in this important election. We’ll introduce our 2018-2019 board members at our monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. We don’t have a speaker scheduled this month, but watch our Facebook page and email newsletter for announcements of future meeting speakers.

The deadline for applications for the 2018 Alden Bridge scholarships is at midnight on March 22, 2018, so don’t miss this great opportunity. You can get an application from school counselors or just download it from our website, www.aldenbridge.org; click on the scholarships tab. All Alden Bridge resident students going on to higher education in 2018 are eligible to apply, and the award amount is $1,000 paid to your school to help with your expenses. Reach out to us at scholarships@aldenbridge.org if you have questions.

Hopping your way again - it’s our annual Spring Festival! The Spring Festival, our major annual event, will be held on March 31, 2018, from 10 a.m. to

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

1 p.m. at Lakeside Park (next to Buckalew Elementary). We’ll have Easter egg hunts for various age groups starting at 10 a.m., rides, activities, music, food, pet adoptions and informative booths. The kids will enjoy seeing 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 there’s no cost to attend. Contact us at info@aldenbridge.org if you’d like to volunteer, and watch the website for the Easter egg hunt schedule.

We need you as an Alden Bridge volunteer at the Spring Villages Flea Market coming up at the Pavilion garage. All village associations share in the booth sales revenue based on the number of volunteers provided, 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!

We’re actively seeking sponsorships from local businesses who want our residents to be aware of their offerings. Revenue from sponsorships goes into our scholarship fund. Please consider being a sponsor, contact info@aldenbridge.org for more information.

If you don’t receive our communications, just send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org and we’ll add you to the mailing list for our monthly email newsletter. You can also visit our Facebook page and website, www.aldenbridge.org, for the latest news from our village.

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

The month of March is a significant month for The Woodlands. The Earth Day GreenUp Event on March 24, 2018, is the first time this year that the

combined resources of the villages will come together. Participants in the GreenUp will coordinate trash removal and bring attention to the importance of keeping our community beautiful. Although you will see reminders of this in the community magazine, it is important to report any site of particular concern. If you live in Cochran’s Crossing and this is the case, report it to Gary Conwell at 281-387-6986. We will put it on our list for the GreenUp.

A trip to an Astros game is in the planning stages and will probably be announced by the next issue of the community magazine. Next month in the magazine, we also will identify board members who will be serving in 2018–2019. In the meantime, you can obtain more information about Cochran’s Crossing and the village association on our website, Facebook page or newsletter.

Monthly board agendas within Cochran’s Crossing provide opportunities to learn about law enforcement activities, education and other concerns that are brought to the board by Cochran’s Crossing residents. The board meetings are open to all and are held in the Township meeting rooms at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. If you have a specific item for the agenda, contact Gary Conwell at 281-387-6986.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

Looking for a family activity this spring? Sign up to participate in the Eighth Annual Earth Day GreenUp on Saturday, March 24, 2018. Join other volunteers and clean up litter in designated areas throughout The Woodlands. Our goal in College Park is to have 70 participants. Will your family help us reach our goal this year? Sign up on the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Looking further ahead, we hope to see you again this year at the Poolooza pool party. The date is set for May 19, 2018, and more details will follow. If you have joined us in the past, you know that there is plenty of fun and food for everyone!

It’s a long way off but there’s no better time than now to start thinking about the November Earth Day and recycling event. Save old CD cases and CDs. We will be collecting them at the 3R Bazaar on November 10, 2018. Remember that there are monetary rewards for the village that collects the most. This money funds the scholarships we award each year to college-bound seniors who demonstrate a commitment to community service.

We could also use your help. We have some vacant positions on our College Park Board. Get connected to the community and your neighbors. Gain insight regarding what is happening in The Woodlands. Be part of what makes College Park a great place to live.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Grogan’s Mill

Mobike, the world’s largest smart-bikeshare operator, has launched dockless bike-sharing services in The Woodlands. Using custom-designed bikes equipped with GPS and smart-lock technology, Mobike enables users to find a bike nearby, reserve and unlock it, all using an app on their smartphone. After reaching their destination within The Woodlands Township Town Center limits, users manually lock the bike, which automatically makes the bike available to the next rider. We encourage everyone interested in the program to try it. We also remind everyone to use it responsibly and park their bikes in a manner that does not pose a nuisance.

The Woodlands Township Village Challenge for Hands-Only

CPR continues through June 16, 2018. Please visit the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and search for CPR to find more information about when and where training is offered. You can learn lifesaving skills and also help Grogan’s Mill. The villages with the top three percentages of residents trained will receive a donation for their scholarship fund from program sponsors. Each training session lasts only about 20 minutes.

Don’t forget to include The Woodlands Farmer’s Market on your Saturday schedule, from 8 a.m. until noon each week. Grab a friend and shop our 30-plus vendors. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our village website at www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ GrogansMillVillageAssociation/ You can sign up for our weekly email blast on either site. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to the community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Submitted by Bob Leilich, Bruce Cunningham, Mike Tabbert and Marie Brannen

Indian Springs

If you are a graduating senior living in Indian Springs, don’t forget to submit your scholarship applications by March 19, 2018. The Indian Springs Village Association is pleased to once again offer scholarships to our graduating high school seniors for service to our community. We are a voluntary, elected board and one of our functions is to recognize and promote good citizenship and community service by awarding $1,000 tuition scholarships. To be eligible, the applicant must:

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE

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

Website www.aldenbridge.org

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

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

Website www.cochranscrossing.com

COLLEGE PARK

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

Website www.villageofcollegepark.com

CREEKSIDE PARK

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

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

GROGAN’S MILL

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

Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

INDIAN SPRINGS

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

PANTHER CREEK

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

Website www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

STERLING RIDGE

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Website www.sterling-ridge.org

MARCH

• Currently reside in The Village of Indian Springs

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

• Plan to enter an institution of higher learning (2- or 4-year or vocational) in the fall of 2018 for the first time

• Truthfully complete and timely submit an application

The scholarships will be awarded primarily on community service and citizenship, so please provide very specific descriptions of your service to 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 see our website, www.indianspringsvillage.com, or check with your college counselor for more information.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

Spring events in Panther Creek and The Woodlands are fast underway. Start planning for the Spring Flea Market and Garage Sale. This hugely popular event always draws a large crowd with a rush to find the most outstanding bargains beginning at 7 a.m. at the covered parking garage between the Marriot Hotel and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. More event details, including the date, can be found at www.woodlandsfleamarket.org.

This year’s Creekwood Fishing Derby will be held Saturday, March 17, 2018, from 8 to 10 a.m. Fish beware, these young anglers are fearsome. This free and fun event is sponsored by members of The Woodlands Professional Firefighters Association. Bring your fishing poles and we’ll provide the bait! T-shirts are given on a first-come, first-served basis. Prizes will be awarded for longest, heaviest and smallest fish caught.

Panther Creek environmentalists and all nature lovers can do their part to preserve and protect our wonderful forest and green spaces by lending a hand at our annual GreenUp on Saturday, March 24, 2018. Call 281-210-3800 for more information.

These and many more springtime family events for Panther Creek families to enjoy can be found online in the 2018 Spring Action Guide available at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

If you haven’t visited Northshore Park, it was thoroughly renovated last year. Concert in the Park will kick off on Sunday, March 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. These free, family-friendly concerts will continue weekly until April 15, 2018.

Thank you to the Panther Creek residents who turned out to vote in the primary election that selected the candidates who will appear on the November 2018 ballot. If you did not vote because you are not registered or are unsure if your registration is active, you can pick up voter registration cards at your Panther Creek Village Association monthly meetings.

The Panther Creek Village Association holds monthly open meetings every second Thursday at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Hear news about your village, including Sheriff’s Office reports and visits from community leaders like The Woodlands Township Board members.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

Young anglers have a month to practice their casting and catch-andrelease technique as the 4th Annual Sterling Ridge Fishing Tournament will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Pepperdale Park from 9 a.m. to noon. Prizes will be awarded for “Most Fish Caught” and “Biggest Fish.”

Calling all Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Pit Masters! Prepare your best and most secret sauces, spices and rubs

and show off your smoking skills at our 12th Annual Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival, where neighborhoods compete for trophies and bragging rights on Saturday, October 20, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

We rely on sponsorship funds raised to help provide grants to the elementary schools serving Sterling Ridge. We need your help, so that we can help even more kids of Sterling Ridge. To make your 2018 donations to help with the fishing tournament and the BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival, please email Ms. K. Shaw at klynda@gmail.com.

Going on vacation? Vacation Watch is a free service that allows law enforcement patrol deputies to check the security of a residence while the homeowner is out of town. Please note: The frequency of home checks is dependent upon call volume in the area. Active calls for service will take precedent. Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office call 936-442-7797 or complete the online Vacation Watch.

Visit the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office new website, www.mctxsheriff.org. For the Vacation Watch Form, choose Vacation Watch from the Community drop-down menu.

Here are some tips:

1. Do not announce your vacation plans on social media.

2. Arrange with a neighbor to pick up newspapers and mail daily (do not stop all deliveries). Try to maintain the appearance of your normal routine.

3. Set automatic timers for lights and/or radio.

4. Lock all doors and windows.

5. While traveling, use discreet luggage tags that shield your name and address from casual observation.

A great way to fight crime in your neighborhood is to participate in The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program. Call John Osborne at 281-310-3800 to get started.

Submitted by Amy Wilkinson

The Woodlands Township has five parks with spraygrounds, also called splash pads, and all are now open for the season from March 1, 2018, through October 31, 2018, 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 inexperienced swimmers.

All Township spraygrounds utilize filtered, chemically treated and recycled water that is tested and monitored daily. Residents are asked to respectfully follow all posted rules for their safety, and

cautioned to pay extra close attention to toddlers and preschool aged children –especially when older children are running around the pad.

The spraygrounds at May Valley, Timarron and Village Green do not require a pool pass or entry fee at any time. They are located conveniently close to (rentable) pavilions or seating areas in their respective parks and are popular destinations for birthday parties and other family celebrations.*

The spraygrounds at Sawmill and Shadowbend are located adjacent to popular Township swimming pools.

hours, the spraygrounds are free to use and accessible from the park’s side gates. During public swim 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. Accordingly, pool entry requirements apply

to these two spraygrounds during public pool hours. For maps and directions to the Township parks and pools, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools.

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

MAY VALLEY PARK Village of Sterling Ridge 11598 May Valley Circle

SAWMILL PARK................... Village of Grogan’s Mill ............................2200 Millpark Drive

SHADOWBEND PARK Village of Cochran’s Crossing 4991 Lake Woodlands Drive

TIMARRON PARK Village of Creekside Park 550 North Green Print Circle

VILLAGE GREEN PARK Village of Creekside Park

creekstoneoutdoors.com

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Brings Neighborhoods Together

By Susan Martin

Keeping your neighborhood safe is a team effort! By joining together, you and your neighbors can assist law enforcement in their efforts to keep our community safe. Watching out for your neighbor and reporting suspicious activity is one of the most important ways you can help.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch offers opportunities to bring your neighbors together to learn ways to protect yourself and your property. The Woodlands Watch is grateful to partner with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 4 who bring crime prevention education to the residents of The Woodlands. In addition, The Woodlands Fire Department contributes programs on fire safety and the handling of emergency situations. Other partner agencies include Conroe ISD Police, Montgomery County Hospital District and more. These programs are brought to residents through the following events.

Safety Meeting

A safety meeting introduces the role of public safety agencies before emergencies occur. Township staff

and public safety personnel from law enforcement and The Woodlands Fire Department will share important safety tips with your neighborhood.

Safety Awareness Day

A Safety Awareness Day is a neighborhood event that promotes safety through a meet-and-greet atmosphere. See the fire truck or patrol car, and speak with safety personnel. Additionally, neighbors can register bicycles, fingerprint children and receive crime and fire prevention tips, 9-1-1 emergency information and more.

Dog Walker Watch Training

Host a Yappy Hour event with your neighbors and their faithful best friends. Many walkers are out in the neighborhoods throughout the day and can recognize when something seems out of place. This event will heighten awareness of behaviors that might appear

suspicious and how to effectively report this information. This knowledge can be applied to anyone as they are out exercising or any other activity!

Additional topics that can be presented to your neighbors, business or organization include: Basic Crime Prevention, Identity Theft and Scams, Personal Safety and Holiday Safety.

If your neighborhood is not an active part of The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please consider hosting a meeting on your street or in your neighborhood park! Neighborhoods, businesses or community groups should contact The Woodlands Township at neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or 281-210-3800 to schedule an event.

To learn more about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, contact a Program Specialist at Neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call at 281-210-3800.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch has provided award-winning crime prevention programming for more than 30 years.

Muddy Trails Bash

The 11th Annual Muddy Trails Bash will take place on Saturday, April 7, 2018, at The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive, from 3 to 8 p.m. This event includes chip-timed 5K and 10K trail runs, the Little Muddy Kids’ One-Mile Fun Run, 2K-9 dog (runner and their dog) fun run, a festive post-race party and crawfish cook-off. All courses wind through the beautiful George Mitchell Nature Preserve, located on 1,800 wooded acres adjacent to Rob Fleming Park in Creekside Park. The festive PostRace Party will feature the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off, live zydeco music, a Kids’ Zone and more. Registration fee includes finisher medal, cotton participant T-shirt and complimentary food and beverages at the post-race party. Muddy Trails Bash is a USA Track and Field (USATF) sanctioned event. Please note, this is not a mud run or an adventure race.

By Megan Williamson

The Woodlands Township relies on the support of more than 250 volunteers to make the Muddy Trails Bash a success. For volunteer information, please email volunteer@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. For questions regarding the races and the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off, please email races@thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov or call 281-210-3800. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ muddytrailsbash for full event details.

Show off your crawfish boiling skills in the Muddy Bowl Crawfish Cook-Off Teams of up to eight members will be provided bags of crawfish: three bags for $200, five bags for $300 or seven bags for $400; ice, serving containers, 10’x10’ tent, table and chairs. Teams bring their cooking materials, spices and fire extinguisher. Awards will be given for Best Crawfish, Best Decorated Tent and Best Cajun Dish.

Registration Dates and Fees

10K Run

January 1 – April 6 $50

Race Day* $55

5K Run

January 1 – April 6 $45

Race Day* $50

Little Muddy Kids’ One Mile Fun Run

January 1 – April 6 ................................ $35

Race Day* .............................................. $40

2K-9 Fun Run

1 mile untimed fun run with dog

Adopt-A-Pathway Stewards

Thank you to our volunteers who help to keep The Woodlands clean and green.

ALDEN BRIDGE Alison Loughlin –Real Estate Agent, Cub Scout Pack 889, Niemann Neighbors, Steve and Judy Easton, Sullivan Family

COCHRAN’S CROSSING Cochran’s Crossing Crew, Dixon Family, LSC Montgomery Mavericks, Rhoad Family –in memory of Akeem Russell, Roger Howard, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

COLLEGE PARK Bay Chapel Bandits, College Park HS HOSA, Dunseith Family

CREEKSIDE PARK Samaia Family, Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL Gary Jackson, Jones | Carter Engineering

INDIAN SPRINGS Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III, Schapiro Family, Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK American Heritage Girls TX 1180, Grimes-Hanlin Family, Klein Family, Michael Callahan, National Charity Round Table, Oney Family for Sunuk and Koda, Rowing Club of The Woodlands, Steph’s Pet Sitting

STERLING RIDGE Charles and Donna Moseley, Devitt Family, Kounthapanya Family

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

TOWN CENTER The Woodlands Lions Club

A special thank you to the Houston Area Geocachers! 36 members spent four hours removing 27 bags of trash from the trails in the George Mitchell Nature Preserve!

SEASONAL spruce-up

Everyseason brings an opportunity for home/property maintenance. The Woodlands Township reminds residents to do the following:

• Remove mildew/algae from exterior surfaces.

• Repair and repaint siding.

• Repair and replace broken fences.

• Mow and edge your lawn.

• Edge, weed and mulch all landscape beds.

• Store trash and recycle carts out of sight.

• Remove loose trash, debris and yard waste.

• Remove pine needles, leaves and debris from roof. Removal will improve the longevity of the roof, reduce fire hazard and discourage pests.

The Woodlands Township is charged with the care and enforcement of the standards and deed restrictions and keeps the residents’ best interests in mind when enforcing them. A permit is needed to repaint and/or replace siding and broken fences. The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department can provide information on lawn care, irrigation practices, disease prevention and plant selection tailored to this region. Is the appearance of your home diminished by algae and mildew? Here are a few suggestions for removing algae and mildew from your home.

• Wipe/scrub with detergent and water.

• A solution of 10 parts water to one part common bleach (strength of mixture can be increased for removal of heavy

growth). Be sure to wet foundation plantings first and rinse everything in clean water when done to protect plants from the bleach. Wear gloves and be careful not to come in contact with bleach. Please be aware that high concentrations of bleach may discolor your paint.

• There are a number of cleaning products and suggestions for removing these substances from the exterior of the home that can be found and sold at your local home improvement store.

Periodic cleaning with a power washer containing water only may help prevent the problem altogether.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ covenants, or call 281-210-3800.

Erin Hanson

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

AquaticsTeam

By Karl Shaw

Do you or does someone you know need a summer job? The average firstyear lifeguard working this summer can earn up to $4,000! The Woodlands Township is hiring lifeguards, swim instructors, swim coaches and more for summer. Lifeguarding positions start at $9.25/hour at most Township pools or $9.75/hour at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center. Swim coaches start at $9.50/hour and qualified swim instructors at $11.50/hour. All positions are eligible for an increase of $0.50/hour each year with additional experience.

Apply Online Today! 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 successfully complete an extensive background check. For

www.REDACU.com

WANT TO LEARN ABOUT ...

Snakes and More?

By Kacey Wilkins

If the thought of a slithering snake evokes fear in you, rest assured, you’re not alone. A Gallup poll once ranked this as the greatest fear for Americans. But fear not – the upcoming Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture Series, Thursday, March 8, 2018, will enable you to get as close (safely) to reptilian and amphibian

DON’T LET YOUR DOLLARS DRIP AWAY SAVE WATER WITH FIX A LEAK WEEK

March 19 to March 25, 2018

By Teri MacArthur

neighbors as you would like. During the program, you will learn about how snakes are a key and natural element of the ecosystem – and what types are prevalent in the area.

The program will feature Mike Howlett as our keynote presenter. Mr. Howlett serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for the Spring Creek Greenway and Cypress Creek Greenway. As a trained herpetologist, he works to conserve wildlife habitat. He speaks on the study of reptiles and amphibians and the specific species found in our area. His presentation will also feature an audience question and answer session, with the option to handle snakes. Register today!

at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389. Before the keynote presentation, attendees will be treated to an evening nature walk through the George Mitchell Preserve. For details and to register for the free program, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment or call 281-210-3800.

The event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Recreation Center

DidThe Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department is excited to present a new combined nature walk and lecture series for 2018. Come learn about the natural environment that surrounds you, the local plants that grow and animals that thrive. Each lecture will feature a local expert on a specific topic, and each program will take you out of your seats, place you on your feet and out into nature. There’s no better way to learn.

you know that most homes have water leaks? Some are losing as much as 10 percent or more of the water they pay for monthly. Imagine only getting $9 worth of water for every $10 you pay!

Fix a Leak Week, an initiative of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.), begins on March 19, 2018, and ends on March 25, 2018. Correcting leaks not only saves money, but also conserves water. Use the following tips to locate any possible leaks in and around your home.

| Easily see if you are losing water by turning off all water-using items in your home and yard, then reading the meter. Wait 15 minutes and read the meter again. Did the reading move forward? You have a leak somewhere!

| Check your toilets first. Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing the toilet. Is there color in the bowl now? The valve in your tank is leaking and you are losing water.

| Check in cabinets under sinks. Do you find wet spots under there? The faucet connection or the drain pipe may be leaking.

| Check all inside and outside faucets to see if there is a drip. Even a small, steady drip can mean big water losses over time.

| Check your hoses in the yard, both ends. If you leave the faucet on with a hose end sprayer or sprinkler attached, over time a leak may develop from the water pressure.

Some information above and Annual Household Leaks graphic appears courtesy of the E.P.A.

Photo courtesy of Spring Creek Greenway

Mike Howlett

Sunset Yoga

Thursdays

March 22 to May 10, 2018

7 to 8 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389

Sign up today at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Click on Register for Recreation Programs.

www.teethforkidz.com

www.arborcarehouston.com

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2018. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

Plan The Best Events WITH THE VISIT THE WOODLANDS CHECKLIST!

Are you planning an event in The Woodlands? Whether it’s a business meeting or conference, family reunion, wedding or other social gathering, Visit The Woodlands can help you host and plan your best event ever. No matter if you are a seasoned planner or brand new, our Meeting Planner Checklist is one more tool for your toolkit in the ever-changing meeting and event planning arena.

Explore the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) website. Visit www.visitthewoodlands.com and learn about group activities, dining, hotels, shopping and even entertainment. The Woodlands offers something for everyone, whether it’s rowing the afternoon away in a kayak on Lake Woodlands or enjoying live music and performances. Perusing the website is a great way to get a feel for how your group will fit into The Woodlands! This also can help spark your imagination during the planning process and has all of the best options in one easy to navigate place.

Connect with us!

Need a meeting room? Need hotel rooms or the best restaurants and activities in the area? You’ve got it! The CVB team members are experts in their area and want to help you explore and experience the best of what The Woodlands has to offer.

Conduct a site tour.

Take a trip around The Woodlands and visit the locations where you’ll host your event or where your guests might visit. Tour the hotel options you are considering, dine at all the restaurants

you may use for your event and check out the activities that you might plan for your group. This is the time to ask questions and ensure that everything you need for your group will be readily available.

Lean on the Visit The Woodlands team for last-minute help. The CVB can help in delivering visitor guides to your hotel for your guests, put together welcome bags and even help coordinate a local discount program. To learn more about how Visit The Woodlands can help you plan your next meeting or convention, contact us today.