April 2010

Features

6 discover Green at The Woodlands earth day Festival

0 Public safety in The Woodlands

 Got Watch? Get Watch!

2 Learn Crime Prevention Techniques with Watch Talk Wednesdays

4 The Woodlands Waterway arts Festival

4 Work for Parks and Recreation This Summer

20 The Woodlands Village Leaders Election Results

2 The Woodlands Township May 8, 2010 Election

22 Day of Caring

on the Cover: Got Watch? Get Watch! Learn how you can make your neighborhood safer with The Woodlands Watch program. See the articles on pages 10-12 for information on public safety in The Woodlands and how you can get involved.

22 Interfaith of The Woodlands Telephone Directory

23 Concert in the Park

24 CBI Triathlon Road Closures

25 One Pass – 13 Pools

26 No Ruff Housing

28 A Primitive Tree in a Modern Context

30 Protect Your Belongings During Hurricane Season...Consider Purchasing Flood Insurance

3 Spring Bark Monthly

3 Message from the Chairman

6 Calendar of Events

8 The Woodlands Village News

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Main line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

Board Chambers

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

service Center

2201 lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

law enforcement and neighborhood services annex 2202 Timberloch place, Suite 222, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

The Woodlands Fire department (non-emergency)

9951 Grogan’s Mill road

The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-3444

Parks, Recreation and environmental services

8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3900

Recreation Center

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

Convention & Visitors Bureau

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-2447

oTher service providers

The Woodlands Joint Powers agency (Water) 281-367-1267

Montgomery County sheriff’s office 281-297-6500 • 936-442-7797

harris County sheriff’s office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

emergency 9

TheWoodlands is one of the most special places on the earth and there are many reasons for this, one of which is the sense of security within our business and residential community.

Public safety has always been a top priority of the residents and businesses of The Woodlands. With economic conditions in our country giving rise to crime throughout the country and even in our region, public safety has become even more important.

When economic times are not as strong and robust, crime will always trend higher. The Woodlands Township is committed to public safety for its residents, businesses and visitors and many new changes have occurred at the beginning of the year.

Inside this issue on pages 10 and 11, you will find information about changes taking place and plenty of useful information about how our residents and businesses can help in the process.

How can residents and businesses help? Become involved. One of the best ways is joining The Woodlands Watch, a program designed to give residents the tools and information they need to keep The Woodlands a safe place and help be the eyes and ears of law enforcement personnel. There is information on page 11 about how to get involved. The Woodlands Watch encourages residents to work together for a variety of purposes, and we have found that neighborhoods that are part of an active Watch program tend to have less crime and a stronger sense of community and involvement.

Are you ready to Get Watch? If so, contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

In addition, please keep these numbers handy when you see suspicious activity: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-442-7797 or the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables Office at 281-376-3472. Please place these numbers in your cell phone. They welcome your phone call.

The Woodlands is indeed a special place and we all need to work together to continue our strong sense of community.

Nelda Luce Blair

Chairman of the Board

The Woodlands Township

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Nelda Luce Blair Chairman

Lloyd Matthews Vice Chairman

Bruce Tough Vice Chairman

Alex Sutton Secretary

Vicki Richmond Treasurer/ Assistant Secretary

Tom Campbell Director

Kemba DeGroot Director

Peggy Hausman Director

Claude Hunter Director

Bob Kinnear Director Rev. Ed Robb Director

Discover

p hotos by p aulo Ortega

AT Th E W OOD l ANDS

arth Day FEstival

By Lucinda Valdes

Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together. All things connect.

– Chief Seattle, 1855

Green living, energy efficiency and the natural world–it’s all connected–at The Woodlands Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Woodlands High School!

“Sustainability is a huge buzzword these days. Earth Day brings the concept home with easy choices for busy families,” said Lynne Aldrich, festival spokesperson and manager of environmental services for The Woodlands Township.

More than 70 exhibits and activities will showcase green trends, resource conservation and water-saving methods. Interactive displays will highlight eco-solutions for home and garden. Free games, crafts and hands-on activities will connect kids to the earth-friendly, conservation message.

“Being earth-friendly is more than a fad. It is a lifestyle,” said Ms. Aldrich. “The festival shows that it is fun and easy to be green.”

Displaying flora and fauna of the Gulf Coast Region, Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast Texas and Galveston Bay Foundation will connect folks with nature. Water Is Life, a state-of-the-art teaching lab sponsored by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, will explore Texas water. From electric vehicles and green remodeling to bluebirds and clean air, Earth Day offers a full day of eco-exploration and entertainment for everyone!

Promoting the elegance of sustainability, the Buy Recycle Boutique will premier its spring line of innovative products made from materials collected curbside. Refreshments, native plants, cloth shopping bags, fair trade teas, coffee, chocolate and other earth-friendly products will be for sale from non-profit organizations and green businesses.

Celebrating the environment, the festival stage comes to life with music, dance, comedy and circus acts featuring Vocal

Eco mascots Recycle Tex and Mulch provide entertainment with an earth-friendly message.

Green

Just for kids, the Ecology Carnival offers more than a dozen free games, crafts and hands-on-activities with nature and conservation themes.

Trash and EarthCapades Environmental Vaudeville. The Rock Wall invites the adventurous to enjoy a climbing experience and get a bird’s eye view of the event.

Earth Day is organized by The Woodlands Township and The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. and hosted by Conroe Independent School District. The festival

Performance schedule

10 a.m. Opening Ceremony

10:30 a.m. Vocal Trash

11:30 a.m. EarthCapades Environmental Vaudeville

12:15 p.m. Recognition Ceremony

12:45 p.m. Vocal Trash

1:45 p.m. EarthCapades Environmental Vaudeville

2:15 p.m. Vocal Trash

3 p.m. Closing Ceremony

PlUs! EarthCapades Environmental Vaudeville on-the-go, Smokey Bear, Puffy Pinecone, Tex, Mulch and other costumed characters!

and most activities are free of charge, thanks to the generous support of sponsors—Waste Management, The Woodlands Development Company, The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, Anadarko, H-E-B and others. Visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/earthday to get the latest event updates and details. Shred Day Comes to Earth Day!

Bicycle Rodeo

Woodlands Cycling Club

• Crazy crossroads, slalom course and more!

• Helmet fit and giveaway.

• Fun, safe cycling.

• Kids, bring your bikes!

Sponsored by Bike Lane

Benefits interfaith Food Pantry

• Secure, on-site shredding of personal documents.

• NO businesses, please.

• Three canned goods or $3 for each bank box. Donations of food and funds benefit interfaith Food pantry.

• NO liMiT!

Sponsored by Shred-All Texas

The Woodlands

EarTh Day FEsTival

“It’s All Connected”

saturday, april 10

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Woodlands High School

6101 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Heritage Sponsor

Preservation Sponsor

Conservation Sponsors

Sustainability Sponsors Sponsors

Miam Electric Kroger

Don’t waste a single moment!

Everything you need is just minutes away in The Woodlands. From a morning workout at the YMCA to a romantic dinner on The Woodlands Waterway®, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Texas’ most celebrated community.

The Avalon by Pulte Homes features 2,399 square feet with an upstairs game room, four bedrooms with the master down, 2 ½ baths and a 2-car attached garage. This home is priced from $218,000 in Timarron. Purchase a new home in Creekside Park now through July 30, 2010 that closes by September 30, 2010 and receive a free one-year family membership to the South Montgomery County YMCA.

NEW HOMES IN TIMARRON, PRICED FROM THE $180’S

Discover Timarron in The Woodlands’ newest village, Creekside Park. This beautiful new neighborhood features homes by Beazer Homes and Pulte Homes, priced from the $180’s – $250’s. The centerpiece of Timarron will be seven-acre Timarron Park, including a Craftsman-style picnic pavilion, separate play equipment for older and younger children, lighted basketball and tennis courts and a playfield. Rob Fleming Park and Aquatic Center and the new Creekside Forest K-6 school are also nearby. Find out why more than 850 families are experiencing life’s next great adventure in Creekside Park.

in THE WOODLAnDS

Public safety has always been one of the top priorities of the residents and businesses of The Woodlands.

While isolated crimes have garnered headlines in our local news outlets, The Woodlands Township is committed to public safety for its residents, businesses and visitors, and many new changes have occurred or are occurring this year.

The Woodlands Township continues to work in a proactive manner. Law enforcement services are primarily provided by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) for residents in Montgomery County and Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office for residents in Harris County (Village of Creekside Park).

In Montgomery County, a new district that encompasses all areas of The Woodlands in Montgomery County was created by Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and is called District #6. The Woodlands Township also has a special arrangement with Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office for residents in the Village of Creekside Park.

In summary, here are some of the new changes within The Woodlands

and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office in 2010:

• A single law enforcement district was created just for The Woodlands.

• Captain Andrew Eason was named to a new position in charge of The Woodlands for MCSO.

• Total personnel under the new plan in 2010 for The Woodlands is 82 personnel versus 55 in 2009.

• Total funding dedicated for MSCO’s personnel in The Woodlands for 2010 is $7.4 million, up from $5 million in 2009.

Law enforcement is also present at all Village Association meetings and Township Board of Directors meetings. At these meetings, deputies and Township personnel give updates on what is happening throughout The Woodlands and seek feedback from community members.

“As we move forward with the implementation of the enhanced Community Policing plan, residents should see increased officer visibility in residential areas,” said Captain Andrew Eason.

“The Woodlands has long been known for its commitment to public

safety and public security,” said Nelda Luce Blair, Chairman of the Board, The Woodlands Township. “Law enforcement is a top priority and a key issue in The Woodlands and with our law enforcement agencies. The Woodlands Township will continue to address public safety every day for our residents, businesses and visitors.”

how can residents of The Woodlands assist in the public safety efforts?

What role can you play, as a resident and a local business, regarding public safety? The Woodlands has had a low incidence of crime because of its proactive response from its citizens and businesses. This is called Community Policing. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is committed to this approach, and Community Policing must include you – as a member of the community.

Deputies are assigned to specific zones within The Woodlands so that they become familiar with the area they serve. We all must take an active role and be responsible members of our community for Community Policing to work. Yes, crime does occur in The Woodlands as it does in EVERY community in the country, but by taking precautionary measures and taking away the opportunity, we can become less vulnerable. Here are suggested ways in which you can help:

• Join The Woodlands Watch

• Always use locking devices on your home, vehicle and bicycle

• Always close your garage door (whether or not you are away from home)

• Do not leave items in your vehicle (especially in plain view)

• Report suspicious activity immediately

by calling Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-442-7797 in The Woodlands or the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables Office at 281-376-3472. Please place these numbers in your cell phone. • Get to know your neighbor and work together for a safe neighborhood

To join in the Community Policing effort, volunteer or become a part of The Woodlands Watch, contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department at 281-210-3800.

importance of displaying your address

One of the best ways to continue staying safe is to display your address prominently. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, make sure your address is easily seen. When you call for any emergency service, you must know your location/address so that dispatchers can inform emergency workers how to find you.

In our business districts, we have many tourists and visitors who are new to our area. Prominently displayed business addresses will help a visitor or resident if they should need to call in an emergency.

It will also help them find you more easily to conduct business. Many neighborhood builders in recent years have begun embedding the house number on the brick on the front of homes. For those that don’t have embedded numbers on their homes, paint kits are available from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services office. It has an added bonus of helping various delivery drivers in finding your address as well. To borrow a paint kit, simply call the Neighborhood Services office at 281-210-3800, or send an e-mail to neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

The Woodlands Township and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office work very closely with the Neighborhood Services office to make sure that residents have opportunities to learn safety and crime prevention techniques. Displaying your address is just one way to add to your safety.

GET WATcH AnD GET EmpOWErED!

Would you like to know:

• What to say to solicitors and how to get a No Solicitors sticker?

• How to request a Vacation Watch from local law enforcement?

• How to stay informed during an emergency such as a hurricane?

• How to work together with your neighbors to prevent crime and improve safety in your neighborhood?

If the answer is yes, then you need to Get Watch! The Woodlands Watch provides residents with the tools and information they need to fight crime. It encourages residents to work together through communication and organization. As a result, neighborhoods that are part of an active Watch program tend to have less crime and a stronger sense of community and involvement. Educated and alert neighbors are in an excellent position to observe any unusual activity on their street. They assist law enforcement by being the eyes and ears of their neighborhood, making them an integral part of community policing in The Woodlands.

Every member of The Woodlands Watch makes a difference, but the more members there are in a neighborhood, the more effective that neighborhood’s Watch is. It is also extremely important that at least one resident on each street in the neighborhood volunteer to be a Watch coordinator. Being a Watch coordinator does not take much time, but it is a great way to become aware of the facts about crime prevention in our community, learn effective ways to bring neighbors together, and to receive up to date information from law enforcement and The Woodlands Township. The Woodlands Township Liaison for your Village will provide everything you need to get your Watch program started.

Are you ready to Get Watch? If so, contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

If

r

Crime Prevention T

with Watch Talk Wednesdays Series

Information about ways residents can work together with law enforcement is the focus of an exciting new program coordinated by The Woodlands Township, Watch Talk Wednesdays. Open to all residents of The Woodlands, Watch Talk Wednesdays are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month, from noon to 1 p.m., in The Woodlands Township Service Center, located at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Residents are encouraged to bring their neighbors, friends, a brown bag lunch and lots of questions.

Watch Talk Wednesday subjects will include the best ways to secure windows and doors, how landscaping and lighting can deter crime and tips on personal safety.

The Watch Talk Wednesday series is part of The Woodlands Watch, which is coordinated by Neighborhood Services. The Watch program is designed to empower residents to reduce crime in their neighborhoods through crime prevention practices and resources. More than 230 subdivisions in The Woodlands currently have an active Watch program.

The next Watch Talk Wednesday is scheduled for April 28. For more information on Watch Talk Wednesdays and The Woodlands Watch program, please contact Neighborhood Services at neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Captain Andy Eason of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Lt. Ronnie Glaze with Harris County Constables Office visit with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services staff in preparation for Watch

Pictured left to right: Captain Eason, Anne Spaulding, John Raybon, Susan Golden, Veronica Hernandez-Mena, Holly Steinke, Lachelle Gentry and Lt. Glaze.

From left: Mel ani e Ed leston, office manager; D Joe G ri ffi n, law clerk; Bret L. Strong, attorney, founder, and managing shareholder; Eric R. Thiergood, Sr., associate attorney; Melissa R. Proctor, associate attorney; Tracey L Johnson, associate attorney

Strong Firm ad:Layout 1 3/12/10

www.woodlandsartsfestival.com

TCenter

Waterway, approximately artists

Work for Parks and Recreation this summer!

More regional their original creations, including clay, drawing, fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media 2D and 3D, painting, pastel, photography, sculpture, textile, watercolor and wood.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Two-day tickets are $15. Proceeds from the festival benefit local charity partners including The Pavilion Partners, The Woodlands Art League and The Woodlands Children’s Museum.

The festival stretches along the beautiful Woodlands Waterway® from The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center alongside The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and culminates at Town Green Park.

Applications are being accepted for:

annual The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is Canada’s Tanya Doskova, a printmaker from Vancouver, British Columbia, who has been featured in solo shows around the world and has won many prestigious awards including the John Purcell Prize for best lithograph, the Cannon Canada Gold Award, the Readers Digest Merit Award for Editorial Illustration and the Adobe Systems Gold Award, to name a few. This is the first year that a digital artist will be featured.

being accepted for:

• Lif EG u ARDS from $7.75/hour

• Ro B fLEM i NG Lif EG u ARDS from $8.25/hour

Work for Parks and Recreation this summer!

• Lifeguards from $7.75/hour

• WATER S A f ET y iNSTR u CT o RS from $10/hour

The Woodlands Township is accepting applications for 2010 summer seasonal positions in the Parks and Recreation Department.

Summer Camp positions available are Head Camp Counselor and Camp Counselor (must be at least 18 years old) from $9/hour.

• Rob Fleming Lifeguards from $8.25/hour

Guests will enjoy ample free parking, close parking for $5 in The Pavilion Garage, water taxi and trolley service, concessions within the festival site and an array of eateries and shops within walking distance of the event. Features of the festival include interactive art activities for children in Town Green Park such as “Artopoly” provided by The Woodlands Art League and The Woodlands Children’s Museum which gives young artists a chance to create and take home art projects, student art exhibitions by public and private schools in Montgomery County, entertainment on two stages, and dining selections at “Palette Café” featuring cuisine from P.F. Chang’s China Bistro and Jasper’s Gourmet Backyard Cuisine.

• Water Safety Instructors from $10/hour

Counselors will help coordinate and organize recreation programs and activities for children ages 6 to 12 years attending summer camp (June, July and August) at the Recreation Center.

The Woodlands Township is accepting applications for 2010 summer seasonal positions in the Parks and Recreation Department.

Administaff is the major sponsor of this year’s Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. Other sponsors include The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, The Woodlands Development Company along with The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, Bud Light, Waste Management, Hubbell & Hudson Market & Bistro, St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, Woodforest National Bank, BMW of Houston North – FM 1960, Keller Williams Realty, Allergy & Asthma Associates, Winstead Attorneys, Jaspers, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Brother’s Pizza, Dosey Doe Coffee, Cold Stone, Edible Arrangements, Sweet Leaf Tea, Freeb!rds World Burrito and CB&I.

Summer Camp positions available are Head Camp Counselor and Camp Counselor (must be at least 18 years old) from $9/hour. Counselors will help coordinate and organize recreation programs and activities for children ages 6 to 12 years attending summer camp (June, July and August) at the Recreation Center.

New to the 2010 festival are free activities as well as unique art and live

All team members must be at least 16 years of age and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen. Leadership team members will also have to successfully complete an extensive background check. Applications may be obtained from The Woodlands Township, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381. For additional information or to apply online, please visit our Web site,

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is produced by The Woodlands Waterway Arts Council, a 501 (c) 3 non profit organization providing financial support to local organizations. For more information, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, call 281-507-0343 or visit www.woodlandsartsfestival.com.

All team members must be at least 16 years of age and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen. Leadership team members will also have to successfully complete an extensive background check. Applications may be obtained from The Woodlands Township, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381. For additional information or to apply online, please visit our Web site, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov; or call 281-210-3900.

281-210-3900

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov; click Employment, or call 281-210-3900.

April

For calendar updates, visit the Calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Thursday, april 

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, april 2

Township Offices Closed

saturday, april 3

Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne place www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

Muddy Trails Bash

rob Fleming park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive

3 to 8 p.m. 281-210-3900

sunday, april 4

Easter

FREE Concert-in-the-Park Jimmy Needham (Christian) Northshore park, 2505 lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Tuesday, april 6

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Wednesday, april  Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, april 8

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Lone Star College-University Center Open House

3232 College park Drive 4 to 7 p.m.

For information, call the Student Services Office at 936-273-7510 or 281-618-7140.

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

7:30 p.m.

281-210-5808

saturday, april 0

Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

The Woodlands Earth Day Festival

The Woodlands high School

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

281-210-3900

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival

The Woodlands Waterway®

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

www.woodlandsartsfestival.com

Admission is $10 for adults.

Children ages 12 and under are free.

sunday, april 

FREE Concert-in-the-Park

Kyle Hutton Band (Country) Northshore park

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival

The Woodlands Waterway®

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

www.woodlandsartsfestival.com

Admission is $10 for adults.

Children ages 12 and under are free.

Tuesday, april 3

Heartsaver CPR

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

photo by Anita Wren

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Friday, april 6

Healthcare Provider Renewal CPR

Emergency Training Center

9 to 11 a.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Gorilla Hole

The recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

saturday, april 

The Woodlands Spring Flea Market

Town Center parking Garage

7 to 10 a.m.

281-210-3976

Creekwood Fishing Derby

Creekwood park, 3383 S. panther Creek Drive

8 to 10 a.m.

281-210-3950

Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

Grogan’s Mill Spring Arts & Crafts Fair

Grogan’s Mill Village Center, 2230 Buckthorne place

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (rain or shine)

www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Spring Bark

Northshore park

9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For sponsor information, please call laura McConnell at 281-851-8844.

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

noon to 2:30 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

sunday, april 8

FREE Concert-in-the-Park

Toast and Jam (80s/90s Variety) Northshore park

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Monday, april 9

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

6:30 p.m.

281-210-5808

College Park Village Association Meeting

Emergency Training Center

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, april 20

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Wednesday, april 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

The Woodlands Township Executive Committee Meeting

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600

9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, april 22

Lone Star College-University Center Information Fair

3232 College park Drive

4 to 7 p.m.

For information, call the Student Services Office at 936-273-7510 or 281-618-7140.

saturday, april 24

Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

sunday, april 25

FREE Concert-in-the-Park

Nigel Edison Band (Country) Northshore park

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3900.

Monday, april 26

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

Mitchell library, 8125 Ashlane Way

7 p.m.

281-210-3888

Tuesday, april 2

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5823.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, april 28

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600 9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2201 lake Woodlands Drive

noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, april 29

Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale

South County Community Center 2235 lake robbins Drive

5 to 8:30 p.m.

281-292-8088

Tribute Concert to Cynthia Woods Mitchell

Cynthia Woods Mitchell pavilion 7:30 p.m. (gates open 5:30 p.m.)

www.woodlandscenter.org

Friday, april 30

Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale

South County Community Center 2235 lake robbins Drive

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 281-292-8088

Upcoming events:

saturday, May 

Friends of the Library

Spring Book Sale

South County Community Center 2235 lake robbins Drive

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-292-8088

Seventh Annual CB&I TRI –The Woodlands Triathlon Northshore park

7 a.m.

For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3900.

Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call lorraine richardson at 713-992-5983.

Tuesday, May 4

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

2201 lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Friday, May 

Gorilla Hole

The recreation Center 7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

saturday, May 8

Community Pools Open for Preseason Select pools open weekends only.

Arts in the Park

The lodge at rob Fleming park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive 6 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

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

alden Bridge

Our village’s biggest event of the year, the Spring Festival, is scheduled for Saturday, April 3, at Lakeside Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’ll have Easter egg hunts, rides and activities, music, food, pet adoptions and informative booths. The kids can hunt for eggs and visit with the Easter Bunny, Puffy Pinecone, the Wells Fargo cowboy and other special guests! It’s going to be a great time for the whole family! Contact us at info@aldenbridge.org if you’d like to volunteer. Watch the Web site for egg hunt time schedules.

The deadline for submitting scholarship applications was April 1. Applications will be judged very soon and we’ll announce the winners for 2010. We’d like to honor these young people at the May residents meeting, so make a note to join us that night, Tuesday, May 11, at 7 p.m.

Our monthly residents meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 13, at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Our guest speakers will be Nelda Blair and Nick Wolda of The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. All residents are invited to attend. Bring your questions and concerns or just come and introduce yourself!

The first 2010 Yard of the Month nominees will be judged at the end of April for the May award. The winner will receive prizes as well as a yard sign honoring their efforts. Please nominate your friends and neighbors (or yourself!) with a note to abinfo@comcast.net.

Visit our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org, for continuously updated news of the village or send your e-mail address to abinfo@comcast.net to be placed on the subscription list for our electronic newsletter.

Submitted by Darla Bell

cochran’s crossing

Did you know that more than half of The Woodlands Township revenue budget is generated by business, including retail sales and hotel occupancy taxes? Or that nearly 2,000 area businesses employ more than 42,000 people right here in The Woodlands? These are just two of the revelations you’ll hear at the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Annual Meeting on Tuesday, April 27, as Nelda Blair and Nick Wolda of The Woodlands Convention & Visitor Bureau present “The Economic Development Angle.” We hope you’ll join us at this 7:30 p.m. meeting at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. We’ll save a seat for you.

Submitted by Bill Mara

college park

Spring is here and with it comes our first annual event of the year. The College Park Village Association would like to invite all residents to our annual Sunday in the Park event at Tapestry Park in the Grogan’s Forest area. Please join us for a fun afternoon of pizza, drinks, chips and snacks. We will be in the park from 1 to 3 p.m. on the afternoon of Sunday, April 25.We hope to have a special surprise ride for the kids and it is a great chance to meet your neighbors and your village association board of directors. The event is free for all residents. See you there!

This month is also the time for us to honor the recipients of the College Park scholarship awards. Please come to the monthly meeting on Monday, April 19, to meet these talented and inspiring individuals. We will be announcing the winners and providing refreshments after the regular meeting.

Our regularly scheduled meeting will be on Monday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the Emergency Training Center. We welcome residents to attend and will be ready to address their questions and concerns.

Submitted by Gail Carney

creekside park

Now that spring is officially upon us, it is a great time to get out and visit the parks within The Village of Creekside Park, which include the 1,700-acre George Mitchell Nature Preserve, 20-acre Rob Fleming Park and Aquatic Center, Wilde Creek Park and Tupelo Park (which is near completion). Each of the various parks have a variety of amenities to offer families. The Parks and Recreation Department of The Woodlands Township operates and maintains more than 160 miles of hiking and bike paths, 110 parks, 13 swimming pools and more than 1,800 acres of open space for residents to enjoy. The Woodlands is a great place to live!

Don’t miss out on the third annual Muddy Trails Bash and 5K/10K race on April 3, 2010. The courses wind through the beautiful George Mitchell Nature Preserve. For more information on the race and other upcoming events, please visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com.

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month. The April meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 6, 2010, at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. All Creekside Park residents are invited to attend and get involved. Social Committee volunteers are needed to help plan upcoming events. If you are interested, please e-mail Events Chair Sue Tedesco, at sue@creeksideparkvillage.com.

Submitted by Nancy Decker Lent

Grogan’s Mill

Following the recent election, Grogan’s Mill Village Association is welcoming several new area representatives to our board. Robbie Brundrett, Rex Campbell and George Van Horn join incumbent members Dana Denton, Joe Giovanniello, Pat Goodpastor, Bob Leilich and Chris Wren who were all re-elected. We also take this chance to thank our outgoing board members, Virginia Dellinger and Donna Gossett, for all their dedication and hard work over the many years they both served. You will be missed!

Ev E nt S in yo UR n E i G h B orhood

The Grogan’s Mill Spring Farmers Market returns to the Grogan’s Mill Village Center on Saturday, April 3 and will be open each Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon until June 26. Several new vendors are joining our returning farmers and other specialty vendors, so please stop by and sample the fresh produce, baked goods, dog treats, artisan cheeses, grass-fed beef, plus so much more. Home gardeners, don’t forget that we have a “Gardener’s Corner” each week for you to sell your own home-grown produce. Go to www.gmva.org for all the Farmer’s Market information.

Join us also on April 17 at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center for the Second Annual Grogan’s Mill Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. The fair will be open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will offer many unique hand-made and hand-embellished items for you and your home. Vendor applications and more information available at www.gmva.org.

Submitted by Dana Denton

indian springs

Per the bylaws of the Indian Springs Village Association, an Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, at The Woodlands Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. The purpose of the Annual Meeting is for the Indian Springs Village Association officers to communicate with the public and report activities to its members. Please visit the www.indianspringsvillage.org Web site for additional information and contacts for the Indian Springs Village Association.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

panther creek

Please join us in celebrating Earth Day on Saturday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at The Woodlands High School. Panther Creek has helped this event for several years and we are always looking for helpers. But this is also a time to look at what we can do to help in keeping our environment healthy and clean. Several booths will

provide information about recycling, green technology, environmentally safe products, and a whole lot more that we can do in preserving our environment. Please join us in this family fun event.

The Woodlands Flea Market is in full swing as the date will be April 17. Please call The Woodlands Flea Market hotline at 281-210-3976 for the dates concerning ticket sales.

Celebrate Flag Day at the Annual Panther Creek Picnic and Pool Day. This has always been an exciting event for the entire family. The village association is providing food and drinks. The swimming pool will be open free of charge. All village residents are invited. Come to the picnic and enjoy a day with your neighbors. More information will be published right here as we continue to plan the event.

The Panther Creek Village Association Annual Baseball Outing will be Saturday, September 11, and tickets are $16 each. This is a great time to bring the whole family and guests as the Astros host the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Panther Creek Village Association will provide bus transportation from the Panther Creek Village Center to Minute Maid Park and return. Contact Mary Bootz at 281-296-9960 for information and tickets.

The Residential Design Review Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in helping to reduce the number of violations. Our largest violation remains the trash, refuse or recycling containers that are visible from the street. All residents are reminded that The Woodlands Residential Development Standards, Home Maintenance (Section 3.2.D.4) states that “trash and refuse containers must be stored out of view from the street or from adjacent and surrounding property at all times except during waste collection.”

For news and additional information within our village, please visit our Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org.

Submitted by Everett Ison

Ald E n Brid GE

The Alden Bridge Village Association (ABVA) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Web site www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3886 or Village Association president phillip Barker at 281-364-1623.

c ochr A n’ S c ro SS in G

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village Association president Nancy Becker at 936-321-4264.

c oll EGE PA rk

The College park Village Association (CpVA) meets on the third Monday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center. please join us!

Web site www.villageofcollegepark.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889 or Village Association president Glen Bernstein at 936-273-3274.

c r EE k S id E PA rk

The Woodlands Creekside park Village Association (TWCpVA)

meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889.

Gro GA n’ S Mill

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association (GMVA) meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village Association president Deborah Sargeant at 281-292-5341.

i ndi A n S P rin GS

The indian Springs Village Association (iSVA) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village Association president ron Kostelny at 281-362-8677.

PA nth E r c r EE k

The panther Creek Village Association (pCVA) meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 lake Woodlands Drive. please join us!

Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village Association president Dan Booren at 281-292-8617.

St E rlin G r id GE

The Sterling ridge Village Association (SrVA) meets the fourth Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell library meeting room, 8125 Ashlane Way. please join us!

Web site www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3888 or Village Association president phillip Givens at 281-419-9331.

Mee

th E W oodl A nd S villa G e leaders

e lec T ion r esul T s

From the February 22, 2010 Election. [(i) = incumbent]

These results do not include write-ins. For complete results, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/elections.

alden Bridge

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote for five (5)

Arthur J. Bredehoft (i) - 40

Peggy Gartman (i) - 40

Herman Weindel (i) - 31

Gregory Bakalich (i) - 30

Laurie Ricks - 23

Robin Cassidy (i) - 31

Linda R. Smith – 26

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

area Representatives – Vote for nine (9)

Laurie Ricks - 43

Michael (Barry) Newman - 39

Kendrick Skipper - 43

Theresa Wagaman - 43

Ronny R. Taylor - 39

Michael Cannetti - 43

Steve Leakey - 43

Phillip R. Barker - 42

cochran’s crossing

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote for five (5)

Larry Perry - 25

James Goldmeyer (i) - 36

John Brandewie - 27

Steven Tidwell (i) - 46

Clarence “CW” Wallace (i) - 36

Mark L. Bacon (i) - 37

David Jesiolowski (i) - 38

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

Vice President – Vote for one (1)

Marti Fox Meerscheidt - 53

Treasurer – Vote for one (1)

James Goldmeyer - 52 area Representatives – Vote for fourteen (14)

Clarence “CW” Wallace - 47

Lori Riley - 51

Jeff Allen - 47

Bebe Smith - 47

David Jesiolowski - 51

Brian Duelm - 48

Steve Perry - 52

Gloria Moser - 47

Jerry Orebaugh - 42

Douglas Cole Grijalva - 44

Stuart L. Schroeder - 51

Cynthia Kessinger - 47

Julie Duelm - 49

college park

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote for five (5)

Laura Dean - 21

Eileen Sandburg (i) - 21

Roger W. McDonald (i) - 21

Gail Carney (i) - 21

Peter Moore, Jr. - 21

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

Vice President – Vote for one (1)

Scott Singletary - 69

Treasurer – Vote for one (1)

Steven A. Reinmund - 69

area Representatives – Vote for nine (9)

Kendall Bernstein - 49

Ron E. Brown - 71

Matthew Springer - 50

Richard L. Johnson II - 50

Laura Dean - 53

Janet L. Reinmund - 53

Larry Faith - 68

Paul Martin - 86

creekside park

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote For Five (5)

Christopher Valle (i) - 37

Michael Ramsey (i) - 39

Peter Kalb (i) - 31

Nancy Decker Lent (i) - 45

Jeff Dewese (i) - 22

David Packer - 19

Jennifer Mares - 26

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

President – Vote for one (1)

Nancy Decker Lent - 53

Vice President – Vote for one (1)

Michael Ramsey - 51

secretary – Vote for one (1)

Matt Marrow - 54

Treasurer – Vote for one (1)

Laurence (Larry) D. Jadrych - 54

events Chair – Vote for one (1)

Susan (Sue) Tedesco - 54

at large area Representatives –Vote for five (5)

Michael P. Casey - 36

Sally H. Epton - 32

David Packer - 32

Kirby Hopkins - 34

Nicole Coulton - 41

Emma Marrow - 40

Grogan’s Mill

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE (WCA) – Vote for five (5)

Sandra Bartlett - 31

Julie Ouchley - 15

Margit Konipol - 54

Jorge Slater (i) - 79

James W. “Jim” Upham (i) - 52

Vince Fredrick (i) - 69

Robbie Brundrett - 56

Franklin R. Palmer (i) - 54

Richard Foulkes - 12

Mary E. Lozano (i) - 45

Rex D. Campbell - 71

Robert H. Leilich - 66

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE (TWA – EAST SHoRE)

– Vote for three (3)

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

area Representatives – Vote for eight (8)

Robbie Brundrett - 60

Rex D. Campbell - 78

Sharon deMarsais - 31

George Van Horn - 59

Nick Ransford - 23

Joe Giovanniello - 64

Dana Denton - 75

Susan Collins Giacona - 31

Donna Gossett - 38

Patricia Goodpastor - 94

Chris Wren - 54

Cynthia Ellis - 23

Sandra Bartlett - 37

Robert H. Leilich - 84

Virginia Dellinger - 52

indian springs

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW CoMMiTTEE (TWA) – Vote For Five (5)

Matthew J. Mussalli (i) - 18

Loretta Colchin - 16

Ken Schumann (i) - 18

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE (WCA) - Vote for five (5)

John R. Scott (i) - 19

Cheryl Edmondson -18

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

Vice President – Vote for one (1)

John Scott – 9 (TWA) + 13 (WCA)

Loretta Colchin – 12 (TWA) + 14 (WCA)

Treasurer – Vote for one (1)

area Representatives – Vote for five (5)

Kelly Sharer – 17(TWA) +9 (WCA)

Shanna Davis – 18(TWA) + 9(WCA)

Eric Thomas – 9(TWA) + 32(WCA)

Oscar Y. Lui – 18(TWA) +9(WCA)

Amy M. Lecocq – 22(TWA) + 11(WCA)

Michael Luman – 10(TWA) + 29(WCA)

Jose Valladares – 5(TWA) + 32(WCA)

panther creek

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote for five (5)

Marsha P. Carlton (i) - 24

Caroline V. Barnes (i) - 20

Kimber Lewis - 24

Everett Ison - 23

Daniel E. Lewis - 26

Jay Mac Sanders - 14

Susan Pennock (i) - 27

Barby Carroll (i) – 31

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

President – Vote for one (1)

Everett Ison - 45

Treasurer – Vote for one (1)

Jay Mac Sanders - 14

Kimber Lewis - 34

area Representatives – Vote for six (6)

Barby Carroll - 37

Hartley Mackintosh - 40

Mary Bootz - 44

Merle Causey - 39

Daniel E. Lewis - 39

Kimber Lewis – 38

sterling ridge

RESiDENTiAL DESiGN REViEW

CoMMiTTEE – Vote for five (5)

Michael Bass - 41

Doris Wootton (i) - 41

John Nanninga (i) - 35

Kevin C. Casey - 44

ViLLAGE ASSoCiATioN

at large area Representatives – Vote for eight (8)

Kevin C. Casey - 39

Michael Bass - 32

Richard Gregory - 31

Stephen Chris Pappas - 25

Nick Norris - 39

Kerri Steen-Chew - 31

John Nanninga - 23

Charles Dressler - 30

Stephanie Carlton - 26

May 8, 20

Positions

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be filled in the May 2010 election. Filing forms, as well as general information about the election, including names of candidates who have filed and polling location information, are available by visiting the Elections section of The Woodlands Township Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Relevant dates

April 26, 2010

First Day of Early Voting

April 30, 2010

Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (received not postmarked)

May 4, 2010

Last Day of Early Voting

May 8, 2010

Election Date

d ay of c arin G Members of The Woodlands High School Boys Soccer Team recently participated in a United Way Day of Caring Project in the Village of Grogan’s Mill. The project included yard and home maintenance.

Left to right, Devin Sauer, Daniel Weimer, Colby Lewallen, Margaret Bauer (homeowner), Cody Schlegel, Ryan Scheffler, Thomas Zernell and Leo Pereyra.

sPRinG 200 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

March 28

Cold Shot (Variety)

april 4

Jimmy Needham (Christian)

april 

Kyle hutton Band (Country)

april 8

Toast and Jam (80s/90s Variety)

april 25

Nigel Edison Band (Country)

sUMMeR 200 7 to 9 p.m.

June 6

level One Band (Motown Review)

June 3

Miss leslie & her Juke Jointers (Country)

June 20

Fab 5 (British Invasion)

June 2

patricia Vonne (Spanish Roots Rock)

July 4

Troy hess & Texas heartbreakers (Country)

Fall 200 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

october 3

Akina Adderly (Jazz)

october 0

Swing Thing (Country Swing)

october 

Fab 5 (British Invasion)

october 24

Johannes linstead (Smooth Jazz)

sunday evenings at northshore Park,

Woodlands

CB & I TRI - The Woodlands Triathlon is set to take place Saturday, May 1, 2010, at Northshore Park. Almost 1,000 registered participants are expected. Please be aware that roads will be affected along Research Forest Drive through The Woodlands Town Center, Lake Woodlands Drive and Woodlands Parkway. The outside lanes will be closed for the bike and run routes from 5:30 until 10 a.m. Outside Lanes Closed to Automobiles:

• Lake Woodlands Drive: Westbound from 2205 Lake Woodlands Drive to Gosling Road

• Gosling Road: Northbound from Lake Woodlands Drive to Research Forest Drive

• Research Forest Drive: Eastbound from Gosling Road to Six Pines Drive

• Six Pines Drive: Southbound from Research Forest Drive to Timberloch Place

• Timberloch Place: Westbound from Six Pines Drive to Grogan's Mill Road

• Grogan's Mill Road: Southbound from Lake Woodlands Drive to Woodlands Parkway

• Woodlands Parkway: Westbound from Grogan's Mill Road to Lake Woodlands Drive

• Lake Woodlands Drive: Eastbound from Woodlands Parkway to Six Pines Drive

Pass

13 pOOlS

200 season pool passes now available for purchase

Warm weather is fast approaching, so why not beat the summer rush and get your 2010 season pool pass today! The Woodlands Township offers residents several convenient options to purchase their season pool pass.

A new season pool pass must be purchased at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, 5310 Research Forest Drive. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Telephone number is 281-210-3950. Forms are available online at the address listed below.

To renew a season pool pass, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, call 281-210-3950 or visit the Recreation Center. season

Thursday April 29 7:30 p.m.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Celebrating the life of Cynthia Woods Mitchell and the music she loved.

Pre-concert activities include:

• Strolling artists

• Arts and crafts for children

• Instrument Petting Zoo

• Radio Disney - 6:10 – 7:10 p.m.

• Public dedication of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell smokedance garden - 7:10 p.m.

haTs oFF To reading CelebraTion

5:30-6:45 p.m. in the Event Tent Face painting, hat making, coloring contest and more, as well as a free book for every child who stops by.

Residents ages 0 – 2 years ..........$6 each

Residents ages 3 – 54 years $40 each

Residents ages 55+ $10 each

Non-Residents ages 0 – 2......... $20 each

Non-Residents ages 3 + $100 each

For a complete listing of season pool pass pricing, or to print a season pool pass form, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

For more information, please call the Recreation Center at 281-210-3950 or e-mail parkrec@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Mezzanine & laWn seaTing sponsored by The Wortham Foundation Lawn chairs are FREE. Picnics welcome (no outside beverages).

2010 Performing Arts Season presented by

281-363-3300

www.woodlandscenter.org

Plaza sponsored by

Cynthia Woods Mitchell 1922 - 2009

Dog parks are wonderful amenities available to all residents of The Woodlands. There are currently five dog-friendly areas.

• Cattail park

• Bear Branch park

• Terramont park

• harper’s landing park

• Tamarac park (the newest)

HousiNg!ruff

By Rebecca Lynn Krug

A Guide to Dog park rules and Etiquette

Dog parks benefit the community, as well as dog owners and their pets. Dog parks:

• Provide a safe, secure area for socializing and recreation.

• Create happy and healthy dogs.

• Reduce off-leash dogs in greenspaces and parks.

• Create better canine neighbors.

• Provide social networking.

• Provide access for elderly and disabled dog owners.

To keep these areas safe, clean and fun to use, there are rules that have been set in place, not only for our four-legged friends, but the two-legged ones as well. These rules are clearly posted at the gate to every dog park.

• Patrons will use the park at their own risk.

• No other animals may be brought into the fenced area.

• Children ages nine and younger are not permitted in the park. It is strongly urged that young children not be brought to the dog park for their own safety.

• Dogs must be leashed when entering and leaving the park.

• Dogs must have current vaccinations and should be healthy and free from contagious disease and parasites.

• Never leave dogs unattended.

• Dogs must be in view of and within voice control of their owner/handler at all times.

• Pinch collars, choke chains and spiked collars must be removed from dogs prior to entering the dog park.

• Dog's owner/handler must carry a leash with them at all times while in the park.

• Dog's owner/handler is responsible for picking up and disposing of all of their dog’s waste.

• Dogs in heat are prohibited.

• Dogs showing any signs of aggression must be leashed and immediately removed from the park.

• Dogs younger than four months of age are prohibited.

• All dogs must be under the control of an adult. There is a limit of three dogs per adult in the park at any time.

• While small, bite-sized training treats are permitted, glass containers, food in bowls, long-lasting chews and human food are not allowed.

• Smoking is prohibited.

• No bicycles, skateboards, roller blades or any motorized vehicles.

• Owners/handlers must stop their dogs from digging and are responsible for filling any holes their dog creates.

By respecting the posted rules at the dog parks, we can eliminate safety issues, keep other dog park users happy and guarantee that our dog parks stay open for all to enjoy.

photo by Jon Krenytsky

Of all native spring flowering trees, magnolias are in a class by themselves. Their flowers, unlike any others, allude to their heritage among the oldest flowering plants on earth. Evidence that relatives of the magnolia co-existed with the dinosaurs is found in the numerous, spirally-arranged floral parts that mature to cone-like seedpods!

Most residential lots cannot realistically accommodate the icon of southern plantations, Magnolia grandiflora. In its natural habit, the mature 50-to 100-foot tree’s broad basal branches span several feet at ground level, dwarfing a landscape.

in modern C ontext

By Kathie Gilmore Herrick

primitive tree

Homeowners who long for a magnolia need not battle nature.

The rare east Texas pyramid magnolia (Magnolia pyramidata) is petite by comparison and smallest of the three magnolia species native to Texas. With a typical mature height of 10 to 20 feet and a slender pyramidal crown, it clearly qualifies as an understory tree. An added bonus, pyramid magnolia begins flowering when only a few feet tall! And because of its smaller stature, the flowers are never out of sight.

Except for size and semi-deciduous habit, the pyramid matches its larger

cousin feature for feature, with threeto five-inch flowers, showy bright-red fruits and stunning kite-shaped leaves, eight to 10 inches long and five inches broad. The Center for Plant Conservation praises the pyramid’s “potential for a landscape tree due to its compact crown and beautiful creamy-white flowers.”

Jason McKenzie, local native plant nurseryman, is equally enthusiastic about pyramid magnolia’s promise for The Woodlands landscapes. Even though the natural range of pyramid magnolia in Texas is limited to the extreme eastern counties of Jasper and Newton—where the 30-foot

champion tree resides—Mr. McKenzie said, “The pyramid would be at home in a shady landscape in The Woodlands alongside a chalk maple.” The chalk maple (Acer leucoderme) grows in acidic, sandy, moist soil.

Mr. McKenzie will answer your native plant questions on Saturday, April 10, at The Woodlands Earth Day Festival where he will be one of more than 60 exhibitors. Pyramid magnolia trees, successfully propagated from seed, will be among the plants offered for sale. See page 6 for information on Earth Day.

Pyramid magnolia’s large, distinctive kite-like

are deciduous. Native magnolias are distinguished by large, fragrant flowers in various shades of white, appearing in March or April, and followed by bright red, cone-like fruits in autumn.

The Woodlands Destination™ Bracelet will symbolize affection for this unique community of people living in harmony with nature. Wear the tribute. Feel the connection.

p hotos by Jason McKenzie

leaves

www.grossmanlawyers.com

of the generally hot and dry conditions of summer, it is important to remember that the Houston area is prone to heavy seasonal rains and tropical storms. The Woodlands is part of the Texas Gulf Coast, and hurricane season will start soon. The next storm could be the one that is intense enough or long enough that the 100-year flood plain boundary is exceeded. For information on how to obtain flood plain information for property in Montgomery County, call the Montgomery County Inspection Office at 936-539-7836. Harris County residents may call 713-956-3000. There is typically a 30-day waiting period after paying the premium before the policy is in effect. Contact your local insurance agent for more information. You may also visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Web site for the National Flood Insurance Program at www.floodsmart.gov, or call 1-888-379-9531. Coverage obtained through the National Flood Insurance Program is relatively inexpensive and provides peace of mind.

important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. They may be submitted to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859. For more information, please call 281-210-3800.

Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome.

Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information.

Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine

April 17, 2010

Northshore Park, The Woodlands

9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

www.thewoodlandsdogparkclub.org

For sponsor info: Laura McConnell 281.851.8844 or lakoalamac@sbcglobal.net