April 2021

The

On the 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 281-516-7348

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

Woodlands Water (Montgomery County MUDs) 855-H20-SAVE (855-426-7283)

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

Emergency 911

message from

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

The Woodlands Named Best City to Live in America

The Woodlands has garnered one of the most prestigious rankings in its history as it was named the Best City to Live in America, according to Niche.com. The No. 1 ranking from Niche, the leading platform connecting students and families with colleges and schools, is among 228 cities and 18,516 towns and neighborhoods nationwide. Please read more information at niche.com and www.Thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

To view The Woodlands national rankings, visit www.niche.com/places-to-live/thewoodlands-montgomery-tx/rankings/.

John Anthony Brown Treasurer, Position 3

Bruce Rieser Vice Chairman, Position 4

Gordy Bunch Chairman, Position 1

Jason J. Nelson Director, Position 2

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Secretary, Position 5

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Director, Position 6

Bob Milner Director, Position 7

Jeff Jones President and General Manager

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 Cheryl Kirsch Jim Callahan

Graphic Designers

Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editors

Perry Frank

Shelby Doerries

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

23

MINUTES WITHOUT

A

PULSE

It’s Never Too Early to Focus on Your Heart Health How The Woodlands Fire Department Helped Save a Ninth-Grader

By Adriana McGee

Whenyou think of someone going into cardiac arrest, who do you picture? Someone more advanced in years of life? Someone with a history of heart disease? Think again. Sudden Cardiac Arrest can affect people of all ages, even children and teens, and those who appear healthy.

Take Julieta Valdes, a ninth-grade student and rising volleyball star at The Woodlands High School. She was casually going through her routine workouts when Sudden Cardiac Arrest hit her, leading to 23 horrifying minutes without a pulse. It was 23 scary moments for her sister Patty who called 9-1-1 immediately. Thankfully for her sister Patty and The Woodlands Fire Department and Montgomery County Hospital District, Julieta is alive and well today.

“I personally do not remember exactly what happened, I just know bits and pieces,” Julieta states. “I was doing push-ups, and I stood up and fell right back down. But when I think of the horrifying moments for my sister, I just cry. I am so thankful for her and all the professional people who brought me back.”

Immediately calling 9-1-1 after realizing what happened, Patty was guided by Montgomery County Hospital

District operator Scott McCully on how to perform CPR while the medical team raced to reach their house. “Stay calm, I’m going to guide you through this. Now it’s very important that you keep this pace 1, 2, 3, 4…”

When The Woodlands Fire Department Engine 105 and Battalion 102 arrived, Patty was performing CPR on Julieta who was still not breathing and without a pulse. Working together with paramedics from Montgomery County Hospital District, firefighters continued CPR, established an airway to breathe for Julieta, started administration of cardiac drugs and gave several electrical shocks to restart her heart.

Some 23 minutes after the incident began, the team was able to get ROSC (return of spontaneous circulation) when her heart started beating again. Julieta was placed into the ambulance and transported to the hospital with two paramedics and two firefighters continuing to provide treatment.

Lt. Bill Holt, FF Travis Nicholson, FF Gary Rogers, CFF Reggie Jackson and Battalion Chief Mitch Hubbard were recognized by the Montgomery County Health District and The

Woodlands Fire Department for their work in saving her life.

“Really, I cannot not say thank you enough to firefighters, paramedics and Scott McCully,” said Patty. “It was such a horrifying moment in life, and I thank God for their knowledge and professionalism.”

To highlight the importance of heart health, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors proclaimed February 2021 as Heart Month in The Woodlands, Texas.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the third leading cause of death in the U.S., and when bystanders intervene immediately by giving CPR, survival rates double or triple.

The death rate from heart attacks has risen dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic from people delaying or not seeking care after experiencing symptoms. If you experience early warning signs, such as chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and sudden dizziness, it is important to seek medical care immediately. For more resources and information, follow your health care provider’s advice or visit www.CDC.gov/HeartDisease.

Members of The Woodlands Fire Department Engine 105 were recognized by the Montgomery County Hospital District for helping to save Julieta Valdes from Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

By Marian Leck

Please Make Room for Emergency Vehicles Navigating Through Residential Streets

WHAT YOU SEE

WHAT WE SEE

Over the past several months, public safety has seen an increase in vehicles parking on residential streets, as more people are working and schooling from home.

In an emergency, time is of the essence, and for emergency vehicles, safely arriving at a call for service quickly is imperative. Most streets in The Woodlands are wide enough to accommodate a vehicle or vehicles parking on one side of the street, however, the problem occurs when vehicles are parking on both sides of the street which causes impeded sight lines and makes movement of vehicles slow and difficult. Additionally, it causes an unsafe environment for pedestrians to move freely around the neighborhood, especially small children.

Parking on both sides of the street inhibits the safe movement of fire apparatus, ambulances and law enforcement vehicles. Non-emergency vehicles are also impacted: Garbage trucks, school buses and mail delivery.

TAKE A LOOK!

Approximately one foot of clearance on either side—not enough

22-24’ wide – Average Residential Street in The Woodlands

6.5’ – Average Vehicle

• How much space is left in the middle of the street if two average vehicles are parked parallel to each other?

• 11´ clearance (approximately) is left in the middle of street

Emergency Vehicles

• 8´ – Fire truck (not including mirrors)

• 8.35´ – Ladder truck/Outrigger (not including mirrors) (Footprint requires 18 feet to set-up correctly)

• 8´ – Ambulance (not including mirrors)

• 6.71´ – Law Enforcement (Tahoe)

Other Vehicles Impacted

• 9.8´ – Garbage Truck

• 8 to 9´ – School Bus

• 6.5´ – USPS mail delivery vehicle

Photos by Kristin Pternitis

Earth Day 2021: Restore Our Earth

Spring has sprung and Earth Day is set for Thursday, April 22, 2021. The theme for 2021 is “Restore Our Earth.” Earth Day is a global movement celebrated around the world each year on April 22. More information about Earth Day is online at www.earthday.org. The Woodlands Township held an Earth Day GreenUp Celebration on March 20, but protecting the environment can be something done every day.

How can we think globally and act locally to help restore our Earth and community? How about these ideas for celebrating our Earth in April and every day.

KEEP OUR COMMUNITY LOOKING CLEAN AND GREEN

Restore our local environment by reducing litter. All litter, big and small, is not only unsightly, it has serious environmental consequences in our community and beyond. Litter decreases community aesthetic, causes pollution, creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, causes fire hazards and harms wildlife. Remember to always dispose of waste properly. Consider starting the habit of picking it up when you see it. Consider educating or reporting those seen littering.

Check out Adopt-a-Path at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ adoptapath if you are looking for a volunteer opportunity with a lot of impact. Adopt-a-Path is a self-guided litter cleanup program that is available

to all organizations, businesses, schools, families or individuals that wish to keep our community looking clean and green. The program requires a minimum oneyear commitment to cleaning at least one mile of pathway at least once per quarter.

Not interested in the commitment of Adopt-a-Path? How about leading a one-time litter cleanup event with your family or friends? The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department has trash grabbers for loan. Call ahead to reserve at 281-210-3800.

PLANT TREES FOR BEES

Restore the native landscape in your own yard by planting native trees and plants. Native plants and trees are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur. In addition to supporting a diverse and healthy landscape, there are many additional benefits to adding natives to your yard. Once established, they require little maintenance, including less water. Native plants and trees are also more disease and pest-resistant, which means fewer chemicals used in your landscape. Native plants not only add low maintenance beauty to your yard but provide many resources for wildlife. From pollinators visiting nectar plants to birds eating berries and caterpillars enjoying a meal in branches of an oak tree, there are so many reasons to add native plants and trees to your yard.

For information about planting native plants and planting a pollinator garden, check out the Plant for Pollinators program at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/plantforpollinators.

REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, RESTORE OUR EARTH

Reduce, reuse and recycle waste to decrease need for landfill space, save valuable resources and prevent pollution. The U.S. alone creates over 250 million tons of trash a year, or five pounds per person per day. Of that material, less than 30 percent is recycled.

By Zoe Killian

Because 65 percent of total waste is product packaging, it is most important to focus on reduction of waste first. Consider purchasing alternatives that require less packaging such as purchasing loose fruit and placing them in a reusable bag or taking your own containers to a local market. Choose reusable items such as coffee cups or tote bags and refuse single-use plastics such as take-out cutlery and straws.

Help keep our recycling program successful by annually refreshing your knowledge of recycling guidelines. The only items allowed in our curbside cart recycling program are cans, cartons, cardboard, paper, glass bottles and jars, and plastic bottles, tubs and jars stamped with a resin code #1-5. Any other items are considered contaminants that damage sorting equipment and jeopardize worker safety. The most common contamination found in our recycling are plastic bags and bagged recyclables. Clean, dry plastic bags and stretchy film can be recycled at local grocery stores. If you are collecting recyclables in a bag, empty contents into the cart and throw the bag in the trash.

For a complete list of recycling guidelines, check out www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/recycling. If you are interested in recycling items such as electronics, batteries, Styrofoam, household chemicals and more, check out the Recycle More guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ recyclemore.

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department’s mission is to empower informed choices for the sustained health of our community and environment. The department coordinates a wide variety of programs that provide information and resources for healthy, sustainable living. For more information, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

THANK YOU, WASTE MANAGEMENT!

Waste Management upper management came to the aid of The Woodlands on Monday, February 22, 2021, at public dumpster locations that surmounted expectation after the first weekend of storm debris cleanup.

When volumes exceeded dumpster capacity and knowing limited additional dumpsters and drivers were available for service across the region, Kenneth Amszi, Operations Manager who started as a driver nearly 20 years ago, drove a

rear-end loader truck to the rescue! This creative solution to the limitations of staff and resources efficiently addressed the overflow issues and reduced the time needed to catch up on trash for the remainder of storm debris collection.

Daniel Rumsey (WM Senior District Manager), Kenneth Amszi (WM Operations Manager), and Camille Tademy (WM OMT) joined The Woodlands Township Parks and

By Zoe Killian

Environmental Services staff on site to load overflow trash into the truck themselves. Everyone was positive, keeping spirits high as this task was not one they anticipated, but felt obliged to perform for our community.

Waste Management and Township Board and staff together are appreciative of the ongoing partnership, mutual understanding during unprecedented times and ultimate shared goal to serve our community when need arises.

WM Staff – Left to Right: Kenneth Amszi, Operations Manager; Camille Tademy, OMT; Daniel Rumsey, Senior District Manager

Photos by Megan McNairn

Photos by Karl Shaw

April 2021

SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT

Please

Please visit the Township’s online calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar for the very latest information on Township events and cancellations regarding The Woodlands Township Board of Directors meetings, Development Standards Committee and Residential Design Review Committee Meetings, Village Meetings, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market and many other Township-related activities that are usually listed here.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar

Photo by John Hallett

2021 WOODLANDS Waterway Arts Festival

TAKES PLACE APRIL 10 AND 11, 2021

It’sspring in The Woodlands and time for one of the most exciting and colorful events of the year – The 2021 Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. During the weekend of April 10 and 11, 2021, the scenic banks of The Waterway and Town Green Park will be transformed into a waterfront gallery featuring work from over 150 juried artists displaying a variety of original art including painting, jewelry, woodworks, photography, ceramics and mixed media. Live music, children’s art activities along with delicious food, beer and wine will provide a fun family experience.

Festival tickets are available to purchase through the Arts Council’s website (see below), and children 12 and under are admitted free. VIPs and guests

over 60 will have a special opportunity with early festival access from 9 to 10 a.m. The festival opens to the general public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The festival will follow all CDC and COVID safety protocols and is smaller in scale this year for the health and well-being of artists and patrons. Guests will be required to wear masks, sanitizing will be ongoing at all common touch points and a cashless payment system will be in place for food and beverage sales.

The festival kicks off Friday, April 9, with the much anticipated Art Dash Party at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott presented by The Woodlands Compounding Pharmacy. This popular “non-gala” event will

be a hybrid experience offering both virtual and in-person options where guests can participate in a 60-second dash for art.

The festival is a major fundraiser that allows The Woodlands Arts Council to continue to impact the community through educational scholarships and outreach programs. Other major sponsors include The Woodlands Township, The Howard Hughes Corporation, Stella Artois, The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center, America’s ER, Pods Houston, Market Street - The Woodlands, Woodlands Escapes and The Woodlands Mall.

Visit the website to purchase tickets and sign up to volunteer at www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org.

For the very latest information on the festival, including any changes or cancellations, please visit www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org.

This article was provided by The Woodlands Arts Council.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

Greetings, Alden Bridge neighbors. We sure hope you are enjoying this spring season. Our next monthly meeting is planned for Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 7 p.m. As of this writing, due to the pandemic issue, our meetings have been held virtually. Follow the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook or our website, www.aldenbridge.org, for updates. If you are interested in attending our meetings while they are being held virtually, especially if you have a public comment or concern, please send us an email at abvainfo@gmail.com.

March 12, 2021, was the deadline for submitting scholarship applications, and these will be evaluated soon so we can announce our 2021 winners. It’s always difficult to select the winners because all the young people who submit applications are so amazing. Our scholarship recipients will be announced at our May board meeting.

A very important source of scholarship funds are the businesses that participate in our sponsor program in exchange for promotional benefits. For just a $100 or more, you can be a sponsor and promote your business while contributing to the future education of our young people. If you have a business in Alden Bridge (or elsewhere) and would like to be a sponsor, please email abvainfo@gmail.com. We’ll be happy to tell you all about the opportunities.

The 2021 Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program is getting ready to bloom again, and our first award will be made the beginning of May. Every month we solicit residents’ nominations for the best front yard in our village, so please look around and send us the address of a yard that you believe fits that description. Board members view the nominations, select a winner, and the winner receives prizes and the honor of our beautiful

sign planted in your front yard for a month. Send your nominations to AldenBridgeYOM@gmail.com no later than Friday evening, April 23, 2021. And there’s no rule against nominating your own yard, so if you’ve been working hard on it – go ahead, nominate yourself!

Want to contact us? Just email abvainfo@gmail.com, or comment on our Facebook page. The page and our website, www.aldenbridge.org, can keep you updated on the latest news from Alden Bridge. Also, if you send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com, we’ll add you to the list to receive our monthly email newsletter. Happy April!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Indian Springs

Mike Ranc and Ryan Porter joined the Indian Springs Village Association Board in February 2021. Mike has lived in The Woodlands since 2003 and in Indian Springs since 2006. He works for Favorite Brands as a Regional Manager and is married with a son and daughter. Ryan has lived in Indian Springs since 2009. He works for McDermott International as a Structural Engineer and is married with two daughters. We look forward to working with Mike and Ryan and want to congratulate them on their positions.

Mike Arendes has decided to pass on the Indian Springs Village Association leadership torch. Michael Saucier, formerly Vice President, will take the lead as President, Ken Schumann will be our Treasurer and Matt Pounders will continue as Secretary. Mike was, and will continue to be, instrumental in our village and running our association. The Village Board wants to extend a tremendous amount of gratitude towards Mike and wishes him the best life can offer.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars now for the 14th Annual Taste of the Village to be held on October 23, 2021,

in the Indian Springs Village Shopping Center from noon to 3 p.m. This annual family event features live entertainment, free food samples, multiple activities for kids and a fun-filled afternoon. For more information on the event, sponsorship opportunities and reserving a booth, please contact michael.saucier@ indianspringsvillage.com.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

With sighting of Easter bonnets, bluebonnets and flowers everywhere, Panther Creek is joyfully moving on, leaving the winter of 2020-2021 far behind. Hurray! What better way to begin the season than enjoying the sounds of a free concert in the park at Northshore Park on April 11 and 18, 2021!

You can do your part to help support life and healing by contributing a gift more valuable than money, by participating at the Gulf Coast Blood Drive to be held on April 15, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Continuing with health-oriented information, check the Township website calendar for information on Basic Life Support and heart saver classes held this month. Even more resources and event information can be found on our website, PantherCreekVillage.org.

Congratulations to your Panther Creek Village Association board members who started new terms after the February elections. Contact us if you too would like to contribute your talents as a volunteer or a board member, visit www.PantherCreekVillage.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

Attention shoppers! Come by and visit the new Sterling Ridge Artisans and Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays, April 11,

April 18, May 2 and May 16, 2021. The new market is located in the Colonnade Shopping Center at 30430 FM 2979, The Woodlands, near Gringo’s Mexican Restaurant.

The Artisans and Farmers Market will have local area retailers, farmers, specialty produce and food purveyors as well as arts and crafts, novelty and other interesting vendors. Come by to shop, browse and eat. It’s free to enter and there is plenty of parking.

For more information, please visit the Sterling Ridge Village website at www.sterling-ridge.org or on Facebook at srvaartisansandfarmersmarket. To join our growing vendor’s list, please download our vendor’s information packet at https://tinyurl. com/osa6mdn3. We look forward to seeing you there!

Submitted by Steve DiGerlando

By Tori Fluellen

Fighting Off Pesky Fungal Diseases in Your Lawn

Astemperatures begin to rise, you may notice irregular patterns of brown patches in your lawn. These brown bleached-out yellow patches could be the result of a fungal problem. Although soil naturally has fungi and spores that can be beneficial and harmless, others like large patch, take-all patch, gray leaf, and dollar spot can be problematic. These diseases begin to infect your lawn and cause dead or discolored areas. While St. Augustine grass can be somewhat resistant toward fungal infections, these diseases thrive in high humidity and soggy/wet locations. Fortunately, prevention and healthy lawn care habits are the most cost-efficient way to ward off fungal diseases from your St. Augustine grass. Proper mowing, fertilizing, watering, and soil aeration year-round are simple ways to help strengthen, protect and stop the spread of these troublesome fungal diseases.

MOWING

If

you, or someone you know, is having a difficult time or suicidal thoughts, get help now by

Remember not to cut your grass too low. Try to keep the height of your grass around one to two inches at all times. Keeping the lawn at this height will help protect it from drying out and keep it from weakening from high exposure to sun penetration.

OVERFERTILIZING

Over-fertilizing can be one of the most common mistakes when it comes to lawn care. When there is an excess

of nitrogen from over-fertilizing, the soil can become vulnerable and allow the promotion of disease to occur. To ensure you are not over-fertilizing, follow all packaging instructions on your fertilizer bag, use a slow-release, preferably organic fertilizer.

IRRIGATION

Watering can be another useful lawn care habit that, when abused, can lead to weakened lawns. Fungus loves to inhabit wet, soggy areas making it crucial to ensure you are not overwatering your lawn. Overwatering lawns can lead to soil compaction and is more likely to cause fungal diseases. St. Augustine grass needs no more than an inch of water per week, less if it rains. And, since St. Augustine is dormant during the winter months, only irrigate when needed. In 2020, we received enough rain in The Woodlands that we only needed to irrigate 12 weeks.

STANDING WATER

Lastly, if you notice that your lawn has standing or runoff water, this can be a sign that your soil is compacted. Aerating can help open and de-compact any high traffic areas by allowing your soil to breathe. Aerating during the spring or early fall is best. Aerating during summer can damage your lawn.

Remember that a healthy lawn can fight off unwanted diseases, so it is essential to follow these prevention steps ahead of time to protect your yard.

FRAUD ALERT

By Lieutenant Brady Fitzgerald, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

Calls for service involving fraud come in regularly to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Individuals with intentions to defraud are continually trying to come up with new ways to steal your money and personal information.

Impostor scams seem to be the most prevalent type of fraud growing in The Woodlands area. This occurs when an individual poses as a representative of the government, a romantic interest, or possibly a friend or family member needing money. The impostor will provide a scenario where you need to provide finances to pay a bill or fine immediately.

A growing type of identity theft throughout the United States is unemployment fraud. Calls for service in this area seem to have quickly grown as a result of COVID-19 stimulus bills. In these cases, the complainant discovers an unknown individual has utilized the complainant’s identifying information to open an unemployment claim. These complaints are expected to increase as individuals discover this type of fraud, due to receiving tax information on these claims.

While there are many scams in play attempting to take your money or information, the following are some tips that can assist you from being duped:

• Be suspicious of callers who demand immediate payment for any reason.

• Remember that anyone who has the number on a payment card has access to the funds on the card. Imposters will often request payment through green dot money cards, Google Play cards, retail chain cards or other similar types of cards.

• Never give out personal or financial information to anyone who emails or calls you unsolicited.

• Never wire money, provide debit or credit card numbers or Green Dot Money cards, Google Play cards or any retail chain card numbers to someone you do not know.

• Government agencies will not contact you demanding immediate payment utilizing pre-payment cards.

• Be suspicious of callers who instruct you to wire, transfer or utilize a voucher system of transferring money from one bank account to another.

• Be wary of using public Wi-Fi or unsecured Wi-Fi. Identity thieves can utilize information stolen on these feeds to open accounts in your name.

• Always attempt to keep personal information and account numbers confidential. Whether talking to someone on the phone, over text or by other means, imposters will provide false information to get this information. Protect this information, only using it when you know it is safe to do so.

• Watch for unusual transactions on statements. If you see something unusual, immediately report it to your financial institution or the business in question.

• Don’t answer phone numbers you don’t recognize, and be prepared to hang up if you believe it is someone you don’t know.

• Shred unneeded documents with personal information.

• Order credit reports and check your credit regularly.

• Research common scams. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office addresses scams on a regular basis and there are several private agencies that put out scam alerts.

• Look for skimming devices when utilizing debit and credit cards. Individuals will place these skimming devices on money machines and gas pumps to acquire your personal information.

• Be cautious of what you put on social media. Scammers make fake profiles and sites. Often scammers will friend request you or message you with offers to make quick money, investments, or requesting for money to help them from a troublesome situation they are facing.

• Scammers attempt to avoid giving you time to confirm if an offer is real before you commit to it. They often pretend to be a representative from a well-known organization, utility or government entity. They often utilize real names from government entities. Research to find proper contact information and follow up before making quick judgments.

• Be cautious of fake websites and emails. Scammers can contact you from emails that look official and post website addresses that will connect with realistic or authentic-looking websites. Always check emails and webpages for authenticity and avoid sharing personal information online.

Anyone who believes they are a victim of fraud or theft by deception should contact their local law enforcement provider on how to report the incident.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office can be contacted at 936-760-5800.

Rediscover, Reconnect and Recharge in The Woodlands

By Amber George

REDISCOVER

RECONNECT

With so many places to explore and things to do, The Woodlands is the perfect place for a vacation, and for residents, it’s staycation-worthy. A staycation can be the perfect way to renew yourself and your family as you rediscover, reconnect and recharge right here in The Woodlands!

Rediscover

Seek out nature and the outdoors! From a hike in the George Mitchell Nature Preserve to enjoying the many water recreation options at the Riva Row and Lakes Edge Boat Houses, or a thrilling climb at Texas TreeVentures, your next adventure awaits. Getting outdoors and rediscovering the area is an ideal way to spend time with your family or household.

Reconnect

Reconnect over a meal by enjoying a date night or family outing at a local restaurant! Several area restaurants offer spacious patio seating, some with fantastic views of The Woodlands

Waterway or Lake Woodlands. From brunch to happy hour or dinner with live music, there are plenty of ways that you can enjoy a meal and reconnect with one another.

Recharge

Did you know that The Woodlands has 14 hotels? Spend some time away from the house and plan a staycation or a weekend getaway without a long car ride or flight. From a dip in a resortstyle pool to a relaxing massage, there are many ways you can recharge and renew your energy with a vacation, all without the hassle of wasted travel time.

Think like a visitor and plan your trip to The Woodlands! To learn how you can rediscover, reconnect and recharge, visit our website at visitthewoodlands.com. Here, you’ll find many dining offers as well as special hotel rates for Woodlands residents and numerous ideas for events, activities and itinerary suggestions. www.visitthewoodlands.com

RECHARGE

If you didn’t get Township Emergency Communications during the Great Snow Storm of 2021, make sure you SIGN UP NOW before Hurricane Season.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

Smarter About Sustainability? You bet!

Learn about your new water meter plus how to create a butterfly garden

By Teri MacArthur

Join The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department on May 8, 2021. A two-part workshop will teach the smartest way to use your new water meter and learn all about the needed elements to create an attractive and functional garden for pollinators. Attend one or both training sessions at our Smarter About Sustainability event, online from 9 a.m. to noon.

Over the past year, Woodlands Water Agency has installed new “smart” meters at homes across The Woodlands. Now you can track in real time how your family uses water, identify where waste is occurring, and find out if you have a leak somewhere. Avoid paying for water you’re not actually using. You can do it all right from your computer or smart phone. The new meters put the power in the palm of your hand, and this workshop will take you step-by-step through

downloading and using the app so you can reap the full benefits.

Do you already have native plants in your landscape, or perhaps recently added new natives to attract butterflies and other pollinators to your gardens? Good for you! But if you aren’t sure whether you have the right plants, the best garden layout, or what you can do to improve your garden, this is the workshop for you. Learn from Lauren Simpson, founder of St. Julian’s Crossing Wildlife Habitat, what native plants are best to attract and feed pollinators, and why grouping plants together is important. Lauren has years of experience transforming home gardens in the greater Houston area into beautiful pollinator habitats and can help you do the same.

The training for each of these topics, presented by Woodlands Water

Agency and The Woodlands Township Environmental Services, will give you the instructions you need to succeed, provide resources for future reference, and help you reach your goals of saving water or having a pollinator-friendly yard.

So many projects so little time. But together we can tackle these two simple ways to be better environmental stewards. Let’s start by learning more on May 8! Register right now while it’s fresh in your mind. The workshop is FREE. You will receive the link to the virtual event by registering online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

To learn about more Township Environmental Services events, workshops and classes, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or call 281-210-3800.

You did your part to slow the spread. Now, do your part to spread THE

Spend your summer with The Woodlands Township at Sunny Dayz Summer Day Camp! Kids between 6-12 years of age can visit either The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park for weeks of safe, healthy fun! Activities include crafts, theme days, pool trips and field trips to various locations. Schedule is subject to change, and COVID-19 protocols will be in place. Camp is held Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Camp schedules are different for each location, so sign up today! Teen Camp and Counselor In Training programs are also available! For more information or to register, please call 281-210-3950 or 281-516-7348. We will see you at Sunny Dayz!

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch will host a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Drive-up/Drop-off location on Saturday, April 24, 2021, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Woodlands Township front parking lot, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., 77381. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) representatives with support from Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office personnel will be present to anonymously collect expired and unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for safe disposal. The event helps prevent accidental overdose, theft, misuse and accidental ingestion of these medications.

For more information about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please call 281-210-3800, visit our website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch or follow us at www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

www.arborcarehouston.com

A Message from Children’s Safe Harbor

How would this child get the critical help she needs… if Children’s Safe Harbor didn’t exist?

April is National Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. Over the past several years, Children’s Safe Harbor has shared with our community the programs, service statistics and protocols that are the core of our multidisciplinary team approach to providing justice and restoration for our children and families. As a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center, Children’s Safe Harbor provides specialized services to child victims and their non-offending family members in response to trauma from sexual assault, physical abuse, child sex trafficking and exploitation, neglect, and witnessing violence.

On our centralized campus facility, Children’s Safe Harbor co-houses representatives from local law enforcement, prosecution, and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) caseworkers and the staff of our children’s advocacy center. These teams are a specialized unit brought together to focus on the rising increase, and complexity of sexual assault and violence to our children, ages 2 through 17. Since we opened our doors on August 31, 1998 we have provided a safe place for over 19,956 children to be heard, helped and healed. Our Mission: To achieve justice and healing for every abused child and engage our community in that mission. Our Vision: Engaging our community to prevent child abuse and achieve justice and healing for every abused child.

Current Climate

While our numbers of service continue to increase on an annual basis, on average by 18%, the coronavirus pandemic has significantly impacted the types of cases that are referred to our children’s advocacy center, namely, we are seeing an increase in violence and complexity across all cases. As we

move forward in 2021, still navigating unprecedented demands of a pandemic and the consequences of public health initiatives, unemployment, and ongoing ambiguity and uncertainty, we know increasingly the importance of our work on behalf of our children. Not all homes are safe. Not all children are blessed by parents and caregivers who can demonstrate a model of love and compassion for them and their siblings. We all need to open our hearts and minds to be that voice for all of our children.

As good stewards of our financial resources, the executive team of Children’s Safe Harbor was asked to consider a business plan that forecasted most likely scenarios for funding, and a worst case scenario. The worst case scenario leaves great gaps in our services and has created return to the days when our children’s advocacy center didn’t exist; where children do not have a centralized and child-focused space to tell their experiences of abuse and be offered healing all in one facility. Our children and families would again be moving between criminal and civil justice systems without our expert advocacy and guidance. Our families would be alone on the journey of healing and justice…

The pandemic has negatively impacted donations and funding streams for nonprofits across the nation. As Children’s Safe Harbor was deemed an essential business, alongside law enforcement and DFPS in Montgomery County, we have had to navigate ever more complicated and violent cases without the certainty of secure and future funding from our federal, state and local grant income streams.

If you see something disturbing happening to a child, please call 911 or the Texas Child Abuse Hotline (800) 252-5400. By sharing your

concerns, you are activating the system of protection for our children.

We all share space as part of the safety net for our children and the hopefulness of their futures and the futures of our community. Children’s Safe Harbor hopes to remain a central cog in the wheel of justice and restoration for children and families for decades to come, but we need continued financial support.

In recognition of the month of April as “Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month”, please consider a donation to Children’s Safe Harbor by visiting www.childrenssafeharbor.org.

www.ChildrensSafeHarbor.org

Crime Prevention is Going to the Dogs!

Learn how to take a bite out of crime with Dog Walker Watch

he Woodlands Township

Neighborhood Watch will be hosting Yappy Hours at local dog parks beginning April 3, 2021. These events are part of the Dog Walker Watch program facilitated by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch and are designed to promote a heightened awareness of suspicious activity and show how to report it to law enforcement. The program is an additional component of the continued Community Policing efforts in The Woodlands which shares the idea that law enforcement and our residents must work together. Reporting suspicious activity is one of the most important ways you can help!

The Woodlands residents and dog walkers are encouraged to serve as “extra eyes and ears” for law enforcement. The premise of the Dog Walker Watch program is that dog walkers know their routes well and can easily note what is normal and what is out of place. At the Yappy Hour,

you will learn about what behaviors are suspicious, what information is important, and how to report it.

Note: You do not have to be a dog walker to benefit from this training. This knowledge can be applied to anyone as they are out exercising or any other activity!

Bring your best friend to one of the following events to learn more. Natural Pawz, official sponsor of the Yappy Hours, will join in with prizes and treats. You are guaranteed to have a dog-gone good time!

If you would like to learn more about the Neighborhood Watch or are

Spring 2021 Yappy Hours

interested in hosting a Yappy Hour in your neighborhood, please call The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov to schedule an event. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TownshipNeighborhodWatch.

Saturday, April 10 – Noon to 2 p.m. Harper’s Landing Park, 2 N. Blair Bridge Dr.

Sunday, April 18 – 2 to 4 p.m. Bear Branch Park, 5200 Research Forest Dr.

Saturday, May 1 – Noon to 2 p.m. Rob Fleming Park, 6535 Creekside Forest Dr.

Saturday, May 15 – Noon to 2 p.m. Tamarac Park, 1300 N. Millbend Dr.

Sunday, May 23 – 3 to 5 p.m. Cattail Park, 9323 Cochran’s Crossing Dr.

Never underestimate the power of human connection.

Kindness is a gift that each of us is born with. And when we share it, the goodness that’s released is amazing. Our human connection is important to our well-being, but it’s essential when we’re sick and hurting. For decades, we’ve been proud to bring world-class medical and academic excellence to our communities. But we also know that treating every patient with kindness, empathy, and respect is key to healing. Humankindness is what we call this strength. It has stood the trials of life and the test of time, and it leads us forward every day. Learn more at stlukeshealth.org.