April 2022

Spring Fun at the Boat Houses

The Woodlands

Waterway Arts Festival

HOME POOL SAFETY

EASTE R

AT WOODLANDS CHURCH

APRIL 1 5 1 7

AN EXPERIENCE YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY WILL LOVE!

A Houston-area tradition for over 25 years, Easter at Woodlands Church will refresh your spirit and reignite your passion.

Bring your entire family for a moving worship service, Christ-centered message and Texas-sized egg hunts!

Rediscover God’s unending love for you and your family April 15th-17th at Woodlands Church!

For service times and information, visit WC.ORG/EASTER

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Cover photo by

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

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

Township Board Names Monique Sharp as President and General Manager

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors named Monique Sharp as President and General Manager. Ms. Sharp previously served as the Interim President and General Manager as well as Chief Financial Officer earlier this year. She has 29 years of experience with the Township and its predecessor entities, serving as Assistant General Manager for Finance and Administration since 2001. The Township has consistently won awards for government accounting during her leadership.

In 2021, Ms. Sharp and her finance team earned the prestigious Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), placing The Township in the top two percent in the nation. Additionally, she led The Woodlands Township in achieving a bond rating of AA+, which is the highest rating awarded to a special purpose district in the State of Texas.

Ms. Sharp holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from The University of Texas at Austin. She served an integral role as part of the team that led the transition to the Township in its current structure and has promoted stability throughout prior leadership transitions.

Township.

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

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 Monique Sharp President and General Manager

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors named Monique Sharp as President and General Manager of the Township at the Board of Directors meeting on February 17, 2022. Pictured, left to right, Township Director Jason J. Nelson, Secretary Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, Chairman Gordy Bunch, President and General Manager Monique Sharp, Directors Dr. Ann K. Snyder, Bob Milner and Treasurer John Anthony Brown.

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.

Advertising inquiries, rate requests and change of address/ delivery inquiries may be directed to Champions Printing & Publishing, 6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G, Houston, TX, 77069, 281-583-7661.

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.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives 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 Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G Houston, Texas 77069

281-583-7661

www.championsprinting.com Your

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The Woodlands Township Aquatics Division has been named Agency of the Year (Class 1, Population of 75,000+) by the Texas Public Pool Council. The Agency of the Year designation recognizes exceptional efforts in providing aquatics facilities, programs and services to The Woodlands Township.

The Class 1 Agency of the Year Award is the highest recognition an organization can receive from the Texas Public Pool Council, demonstrating a commitment to professionalism and excellence in aquatics. In 2021, the Township operated 14 pools and five splash pads, provided 8,935 swim lessons to children in the community, hosted water safety events at 10 pools and demonstrated a commitment to excellent lifeguard skills by conducting more than 1,000 individual audits of the 300 lifeguards working at these facilities.

Visit The Woodlands employees Elizabeth Eddins and Josie Lewis were recently named to regional boards of directors for tourism. Ms. Eddins, who serves as Executive Director for Visit The Woodlands, has been appointed to the Texas Travel Alliance Board of Directors. Ms. Lewis, who serves as Sales Director, has been appointed to Meeting Planners International Houston Chapter Board of Directors.

Get Your Game Plan at the Emergency Preparedness Event

By Holly Steinke

Make your game plan for hurricanes and other emergencies at The Woodlands Township’s annual Emergency Preparedness Event on Saturday, April 2, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

The Township invites residents to stop by this fun, free family event, which offers a great way to learn how to prepare for the impending hurricane season and other unexpected events. Public safety and related community organizations will be there to provide you with useful information and giveaways. Additionally, various emergency vehicles and apparatus will be on hand for kids to explore.

The event is rain or shine and features both indoor and outdoor activities and booths. In case of rain, some activities will be moved indoors.

The Emergency Preparedness Event is produced by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch with CenterPoint Energy serving as the Presenting Sponsor.

The Township Board of Directors recognized The Woodlands Township Aquatics Division for being named Agency of the Year (Class 1, Population of 75,000+) by the Texas Public Pool Council at the Township Board meeting on February 17, 2022. Pictured, left to right, Township Director Jason J. Nelson, Secretary Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, Aquatics Superintendent Marty Mulgrew, Chairman Gordy Bunch, Aquatics Supervisor Cynthia Roberts, Aquatics Program Coordinator Debbie Arnold, Lifeguard Coordinator Zach Tekavec, Director Dr. Ann K. Snyder, Director Bob Milner and Treasurer John Anthony Brown.

At the Township Board meeting on February 17, 2022, The Township Board of Directors recognized Visit The Woodlands employees Elizabeth Eddins and Josie Lewis for being named to regional boards of directors for tourism. Pictured, left to right, Township Director Jason J. Nelson, Secretary Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs, Visit The Woodlands Executive Director Elizabeth Eddins, Township Chairman Gordy Bunch, Visit The Woodlands Sales Director Josie Lewis, Directors Dr. Ann K. Snyder, Bob Milner and Treasurer John Anthony Brown.

Prepare for weather-related emergencies and other unforeseen situations at The Woodlands Township’s Emergency Preparedness Event on Saturday, April 2, 2022.

By Angela Ellis

THE WOODLANDS

The annual Woodforest Bank TRI

- The Woodlands takes place on Saturday, May 7, 2022, at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, beginning at 7 a.m.

As one of the premier multisport events in the region, the Woodforest Bank TRI is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and offers high-caliber competition, first-rate race management and scenic courses. The race is composed of a 500-meter swim in Lake Woodlands, a 12.8-mile bike course throughout The Woodlands and a 5K run along The Woodlands Waterway. The USA Triathlon (USAT) sanctioned event attracts elite triathletes

and beginners alike from across the state and nation.

Registration is open now at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ thewoodlandstriathlon. Walk-up registration will be offered, space permitting.

You do not need to be a triathlete to be a part of this community event. Cheer on participants and enjoy yourself at the festive post-race party, or volunteer on race day.

Impacted lanes throughout the course will be closed to automobile traffic from 6 to 10:30 a.m., including Lake Woodlands Drive, Research Forest Drive, Grogan’s Mill Road, Woodlands Parkway and Cochran’s Crossing. For traffic inquiries or assistance

with alternate routes, residents and businesses may contact the dedicated Traffic Hotline at 281-210-2099, or email races@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. All lanes will be cleared and opened no later than 10:30 a.m. on race day.

For detailed route maps and more information on lane closures, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ thewoodlandstriathlon.

Photos by Derrick Bryant

KEEP YOU MOVING

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The Woodlands

Conroe

AT THE BOAT HOUSES Spring Fun

By Erica Flocke

Bunny-hop

your way to

The Woodlands Waterway for an exciting opportunity to take your traditional egg hunt to the water.

Riva Row Boat House hosts the annual Kayak Egg Hunt program four times this month. Prize-filled plastic eggs will be hidden along the lower section of the Waterway and participants will kayak out, along with a parent or guardian, to collect them.

After the event, a special guest

will be waiting at the boat house for an exciting photo opportunity. Tandem (two-seater) kayaks will be used in this program. Each child must be accompanied by an adult in the kayak. Limit one child per kayak. The price for the program is $40 per tandem kayak and includes all equipment and supplies. Space is limited, so be sure to register early! Register at www.rivarowboathouse.com/ kayak-egg-hunt.

Dates

• Tuesday, April 5, 2022 from 6 to 7 p.m.

• Wednesday, April 6, 2022 from 6 to 7 p.m.

• Tuesday, April 12, 2022 from 6 to 7 p.m.

• Wednesday, April 13, 2022 from 6 to 7 p.m.

If the Kayak Egg Hunt programs sell out (and they often do), do not fret. You can still enjoy kayaking on the Waterway. Riva Row Boat House and Lakes Edge Boat House will be open all month, including normal hours on Good Friday (April 15) and 11 a.m. opening on Easter Sunday (April 17). Spring is also a great time to bring your furry best friends for a kayak adventure! Make plans to spend some energizing time outdoors this month and try something new. Reservations are always recommended, but especially during busy holiday weekends. Walk-ups are allowed, but reservations always take priority. Make your reservations at www.rivarowboathouse.com.

Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, TX 77380

9 a.m. to sunset

Last boat goes out one hour before sunset

Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Lakes Edge Boat House

1970 Hughes Landing Blvd

The Woodlands, TX 77380

9 a.m. to sunset

Last boat goes out one hour before sunset

Closed Mondays through Thursdays

Take your egg hunts to the water with Riva Row Boat House this month. Prize-filled plastic eggs will be hidden along the lower section of the Waterway for adventurous kayakers to find.

InNeighborhood Watch Hosts Crime Prevention Yappy Hours

By Susan Martin

The Woodlands, you can find hundreds of neighbors walking their dogs at all times of the day and all days of the week. Dog walkers typically know their neighborhoods well and can quickly spot when something is out of place.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch facilitates Dog Walker Watch, which encourages residents to serve as extra eyes and ears for law enforcement. Neighborhood Watch invites residents and their canines to Yappy Hours at our local dog parks beginning on April 9, 2022. Learn about observing suspicious behaviors, identifying key information and how to report that information to the correct authorities.

You are sure to have a dog-gone good time! Natural Pawz, official

Yappy Hours

sponsor of the Yappy Hours, will join in the fun with prizes and treats. Stop by the Yappy Hours and learn how to show criminals that they are barking up the wrong trees.

Proactive Steps to Take While Walking Pups:

1. Be aware. When people are aware of their surroundings, it discourages criminal activity. Have your cell phone available in case of an emergency or if you see something suspicious. Put it in your pocket while walking so you remain undistracted.

Saturday, April 9, 8 to 10 a.m. Bear Branch Park, 5200 Research Forest Drive

Sunday, April 10, 10 a.m. to Noon Harper’s Landing Park, 2 North Blair Bridge Drive

Wednesday, April 13, 4 to 6 p.m. Cattail Park, 9323 Cochran’s Crossing Drive

Sunday, May 1, 10 a.m. to Noon Rob Fleming Park, 6535 Creekside Forest Drive

Sunday, May 15, Noon to 2 p.m. Tamarac Park, 1300 North Millbend Drive

Saturday, May 21, 9 to 10:30 a.m. Terramont Park, 8500 Terramont Drive

2. Watch out for unusual behavior. Watch for behavior that seems out of place which could include:

• A car driving without headlights.

• A car parked in an unusual location.

• A person looking into vehicles in a parking lot or looking into a house window.

• A person taking pictures of the area, homes or schools.

3. Look out for neighbors.

The Woodlands residents can keep one another safe by being aware of unusual surroundings, such as an open garage door, an unlocked back gate or irregular behavior. Dog walkers are encouraged to reach out to neighbors and inform them if anything looks out of place.

4. Make the call.

Do not hesitate to report suspicious activity when it is occurring. Call immediately!

• Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 936-442-7797 Option 3

• Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4 – 281-376-3472

5. Call 9-1-1 immediately in case of emergency or if a crime is occurring.

Please be observant of suspicious activity and make the call to law enforcement when witnessed. Remember, it is never your role to approach or confront anyone physically. Please only report suspicious activity to law enforcement and avoid putting yourself or others in a potentially harmful situation.

If you would like to learn more about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch or hosting a Yappy Hour in your neighborhood, please call 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov to schedule an event. Please follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TownshipNeighborhodWatch.

Don’t Miss The Fidelity Investments The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival April 9 – 10, 2022

Attention

art lovers! Fidelity Investments The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is set for the weekend of April 9 and 10, 2022.

Set upon the scenic banks of The Woodlands Waterway and in Town Green Park, this outdoor show will feature 200+ jury-selected local, national and international fine artists presenting a variety of multi-media original artwork including painting, drawing, clay, metal, woodworks, photography, mixed media, and jewelry, leather and fiber.

The Woodlands Arts Council, producer of the festival, is pleased to announce Guilloume as this year’s featured artist. He is a master of “Bolismo,” an emotional style using simple forms, textures and movements to exhibit human feelings from the most complex to the simplest.

A native of Medellin, Colombia, Guilloume maintains his studio of fine art in Sandia Park, New Mexico, near Santa Fe. His minimalist style

is expressed primarily in oil paintings and bronze sculptures, from tabletopsized to massive. He also works in watercolors, oil pastel, pastel, pencil and ink, as well as bronze reliefs and stone sculptures. He dedicated himself to art at an early age and completed formal studies at Bellas Artes Institute in Colombia in 1981.

His featured art piece for this year is a six-foot-tall by four-foot-wide oil-on-metal triptych, titled “Celebrating Abundance.” The stunning piece will be auctioned at the Art Dash Party, set for the evening of April 8, 2022, as a prelude to the festival.

Live music, entertainment, food and fun activities for kids round out this long-standing springtime tradition for families and locals.

A jewel of the Texas fine arts tour, it is ranked among the top fine arts festivals in the country and has been voted as the “Best Event In The Woodlands” for 10 years in a row.

For more information and to purchase tickets (sold online only) to The Fidelity Investments The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival and the Art Dash Party, please visit www.thewoodlandsartscouncil.org/p/ festival.

2022 Featured Artist Guilloume

BEFORE

Alden Bridge

Greetings, Alden Bridge neighbors, we sure hope you are enjoying this spring season. Our next monthly meeting is planned for Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at 7 p.m. at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Feel free to join us and, as always, if you have a concern or question, you can send us an e-mail at abvainfo@gmail.com.

Scholarship applications will be evaluated soon in order to announce our 2022 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 meeting.

The 2022 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 resident 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. Village board members view the nominations and select a winner who receives prizes and the honor of our beautiful sign planted in their front yard for a month. Send your nominations to abvainfo@gmail.com no later than Friday evening, April 22, 2022. 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 at www.facebook.com/ aldenbridge. The page and our website, www.aldenbridge.org, can keep you updated on the latest news from Alden Bridge. 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

Cochran’s Crossing

Attention, all high school seniors! The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association will award two $500 scholarships to graduating high school seniors planning to continue their education. The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association scholarship

application is available at the Career Center at both The Woodlands High School and College Park High School, as well as www.cochranscrossing.com. Applications are due on April 20, 2022.

Calling all Cochran’s Crossing residents to join us to learn valuable information about pollutants and contaminants in local waterways. Your help is needed to install educational markers on storm drain inlets and to distribute informative door hangers. Beyond that, please spread the word about what you learn to other residents to help protect our waterways. Mark your calendars and bring your neighbors to Cattail Dog Park at 9323 Cochran’s Crossing Drive on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, from 4 to 6 p.m. Registration is required. Please register online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/volunteer and choose the Installation of Storm Drain Markers option under Volunteer Opportunities.

The association has been so fortunate to have wonderful board members who hosted events and volunteered throughout the community representing Cochran’s Crossing for the past year. A special thanks to those who served the board through February 2022. The association welcomes 10 new board members and eight returning board members ready to serve the community and to work as liaisons for the residents in resolving village concerns.

Please join us at the next meeting of the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please follow our Facebook page, Village of Cochran’s Crossing Association, visit our website at www.cochranscrossing.com or email cochranscrossingvillage@gmail.com with any questions.

Submitted by Cynthia Kessinger

College Park

Happy spring from College Park Village Association. We had a long winter where our plants and trees were very confused by our mercurial weather. Now is a great time to visit our local

garden stores or grocery store entrances and pick up some pretty springtime flowers to brighten up our homes.

Our students are working hard to finish their semesters. Easter is April 17, 2022. Follow our College Park website for information about Sundae in the Park and our Poolooza in May, which is a free event.

Enjoy your families, plan family getaways and please practice keeping our environment healthy and clean. Our monthly College Park Village Association Board meeting is at 6 p.m. every third Tuesday of the month. We have a few new board members to congratulate.

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Creekside Park

Creekside Park Village Association hosted the 12th annual Chili Cook-Off and Winter Festival at Rob Fleming Park on January 22, 2022. We had a great turnout. Thank you to all the teams for participating and serving up some delicious chili. The residents voted and the winners of the chili-cook off contest are as follows:

First Place: Kickin’ Cougars

Second Place: Fire in the Hole

Third Place: Frontier Chili

Best Decorated Booth: Corcoran Ferester Realty

A special thanks to all the event sponsors; without the support of local businesses, we would not be able to provide such a huge event to our residents. In addition to sponsors, an event like this takes the dedication of many volunteers. Thank you to all the students from local schools who provided support at the event.

Thank you to all the teams who participated in the 12th annual Chili Cook-Off and Winter Festival at Rob Fleming Park on January 22, 2022.

Several retail updates were shared at the January village association meeting:

• Howard Hughes has started construction on a new medical center which is anticipated to be completed by August 2022.

• Austin Bank, a new community bank, is now open in the Creekside Park Village Green. They are set to build a new larger space off Strake Road.

• I Love Mac and Cheese: Be on the lookout for a new gourmet mac and cheese eatery that is set to open this spring in Creekside.

Harris County Precinct 4 has completed several striping and pedestrian crossing updates on Kuykendahl Road. The task force that was established after the incident last year is still in discussion about the potential light and lane changes while actions are being transitioned from Precinct 4 to Precinct 3 due to the Harris County redistricting changes. Both precincts are working closely with The Woodlands Township, The Howard Hughes Corporation and the task force to continue to implement improvements and keep pedestrians and cyclists safe through our community.

We encourage you to attend the monthly village association meetings, held the first Tuesday of every month, except when noted, at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. Join the Creekside Park Village Association Facebook page to stay up to date with the happenings in our village or visit our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com.

Submitted by Melissa N. D’Mello

Grogan’s Mill

Be better prepared for any emergency with the Smart911 app. By signing up, you can share lifesaving information about your household with 9-1-1 and receive targeted emergency alerts.

When you call 9-1-1, your Smart911 Safety Profile displays on the 9-1-1 screen. The 9-1-1 call takers can view your addresses, medical information, home information, pets and vehicles, and emergency contacts. You can provide as much or as little information as you like.

This additional information enables 9-1-1 and first responders to send help fast.

Smart911 can also keep you informed of weather, traffic and other emergencies by sending emergency alerts from the National Weather Service and local public safety agencies. You can select the types of notifications you want and how you want to be notified. Smart911: Information worth sharing. Sign up today at www.smart911.com.

With spring now in the air, there is even more produce, honey, baked goods, crafts, food and more at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors, we have live music and a food truck on most Saturdays. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our website at www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook. com/WoodlandsFarmersMarket/. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Save your alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries, from your home, workplace, friends and families. We will collect them for the next Village Challenge. You can bring them to the Farmer’s Market where we will hold them until the challenge officially begins.

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson

Indian Springs

Taste of the Village - October 29, 2022, Noon to 3 p.m.

Mark your calendars now for the 17th Annual Taste of the Village to be held on October 29, 2022, in the Indian Springs Village Shopping Center from noon to 3 p.m. The Indian Springs Shopping Center is located at the southwest corner of Kuykendahl Road and Woodlands Parkway. The event is co-sponsored by the Indian Springs Village Association, H-E-B and Regency Centers in cooperation with participating

local business establishments and is free to attend. 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 visit our website at www.indianspringstx.com.

Indian Springs Village Association Election Results

The Indians Springs Village Association would like to welcome Marisa Catanzaro, Aimee Logan Pearce, Julie Akin, Zachary Miller and Eric Taras as our newest Village Board Representatives. In addition, we would like to congratulate Mike Ranc and Fred “Tripp” McOmber on their elections to the roles of Vice President and Treasurer, respectively. Congratulations are also given to Kelly Sharer and Richie Spurlock who were re-elected into their roles of Village Board Representative. Finally, we want to thank Carol Stromatt for her service on the board and in The Woodlands. Her service and friendship to the community was an incredible donation to all of our wellbeing.

Do you want to be more informed or get involved as an Indian Springs resident? We urge you to join us and attend the Indian Springs Village Association monthly meetings. As a volunteer service organization, our board’s sole purpose is to ensure our village is the perfect place to live. Please join us at our next meeting (normally the second Tuesday monthly) at the Township Town Hall building public meeting space.

Elementary School Donations

The Indian Springs Village Association is proud to support our outstanding public schools. The funds raised through our events, such as the Taste of the Village in October and multiple Township sponsored events throughout the year, are used for scholarships to our Indian Springs high school seniors and donations to our neighborhood schools.

This year, donations will be made to Glen Loch Elementary and Galatas Elementary. Typically, funds are used for continued on next page

enhancement of classroom libraries and accelerated reading programs that can improve vocabulary and increase reading comprehension on a variety of books.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Not far from our little village is an opportunity to hear some incredibly talented artists at Central Park in the heart of Market Street.

This spring, see hometown musical talent bloom as you sit back and enjoy live music in Central Park in the heart of Market Street every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. Artists from the Sarah Kelly Music School and Sweekman Artists belt out their best original songs and clever arrangements of current pop hits and classic rock favorites. Hosted by Gideon Bustamante, Sarah Kelly Music School’s Head Vocal Coach, this is a top-

notch night of free entertainment in The Woodlands. Bring chairs and/or a blanket and picnic under the stars - April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2022.

Submitted by Jennifer Majors Baca

Sterling Ridge

Join Sterling Ridge for our annual fishing derby on Saturday, April 30, 2022, in Pepperdale Park from 9:30 a.m. to noon. What began as a small fishing tournament for residents has grown every year and become one of our favorite

events. Kids and adults gather and spend a morning fishing and enjoying nature. There will be awards for biggest fish and most fish caught in three age groups as well as drawings for great giveaways. Registration can be completed on our website or on the day of the event.

We are currently planning for our annual pool party this summer and our 16th Annual Sterling Ridge Village Association BBQ Challenge and Kids’ Festival in October. More details about these events to follow!

Sterling Ridge Village Association meets on the first Thursday of every month at the RE/MAX office at 6620 Woodlands Pkwy at 7 p.m.

Visit us online at www.sterlingridge.org and sign up for our monthly newsletter. You can also follow the village association on Facebook and Instagram for information about upcoming events.

Submitted by Thomas Principale

April 2022

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.

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WANT TO HELP US KEEP THE WOODLANDS BEAUTIFUL?

Join the Adopt-A-Path program! To find an available pathway near you, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ adoptapath. The Woodlands Township also lends equipment to residents and organizations to organize their own litter cleanup. For more information, call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800 or email enviro@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Thank you to the Adopt-A-Path volunteers who help keep our community clean and green. Removing litter from our green spaces reduces pollution in waterways, protects wildlife and keeps our community beautiful.

ALDEN BRIDGE: Alison Loughlin – Real Estate Agent, Claude Hunter, Cub Scout Pack 889, Peter K Valles, Roxy’s Walk, Steve and Judy Easton, The Bredehoft Family, The Day Family, The Geiger Family, The Irhabi Family, The Perkins Family, The Reeder Family, The Rodriguez Family in memory of Abuelita Gladys Rodriguez, The Sullivan Family

COCHRAN’S CROSSING: Anjuman-e-Saifee The Woodlands, Cochran’s Crossing Crew, The Creighton Family, The Figueredo-Weiser Family, Girl Scout Troop #108045, Girl Scout Troop #108053, Girl Scout Troop #108055, The Gonzalez Family, The Herrick Family, Julia and Owen’s Grandma Jo, The Kimmel Family, The Rhoad Family in memory of Akeem Russell, The Roger Howard Family, Sterling Total Wealth Solutions, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., The Tidwell Family

COLLEGE PARK: Bay Chapel Ct Bandits, College Park HOSA, The Hanley Family, The Karl Family, The Viverette Family

CREEKSIDE PARK:  The Benedict Family, Bike The Woodlands Coalition, The Cater Family in memory of Ann Moszkowicz and Sharon Cater, Evermore Trail Neighborhood, The Green Corner Duo, The Hawkins Family, Ken Conner, SEA Kohoutek, War Eagle Way, The Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL:  Girl Scout Daisy Troop #108001, Grogan’s Mill Village Association, The Gooding Family, The Houston Family, Molly Anne and Robin Davis, NCL Grand Lilies, Scott Marzano, Stronger to Serve

INDIAN SPRINGS: Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto, III; Densmore and Tiller, The Ellison Family, Fire Flicker Trash Hunters, Rohm home, The Schapiro Family, Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK: Académie de l’Arc-en-Ciel, American Heritage Girls Troop 1180, Anderson/Wang, The Barnes Family, Clayton & Diane, Esprit International School, The Grimes-Hanlin Family, The Gunden Schmucker Family, The Killian Family, The Redmond Family, Roxy’s Walk, Steph’s Pet Sitting, The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church

RESEARCH FOREST: Entergy, HARC, TownshipFuture

STERLING RIDGE: The Devitt Family, Halverson Family & Friends, Kathy Hancock in honor of Jerry and Kay Pierce, NCL Bluebonnets, NCL Texas Laurels, The Wasserman Family

HARPER'S LANDING CLEANUP CREW

The Harper's Landing Cleanup Crew meets on the second Saturday of every month. This group was created by resident, Lauri Dietz. They meet at Harper’s Landing Park at 11 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month.

Photos courtesy of Lauri Dietz

Clean the Green from Your House

A Message from Covenant Administration

Have you noticed some green growth on your house lately? It’s probably algae or mildew. Algae and mildew aren’t very selective, and they will grow just as easily on bricks, concrete and fences as on siding. Due to our climate, every home in The Woodlands is an algae and mildew candidate!

Painting over areas of algae or mildew will only cause the new paint to fail. Removal is the only solution to this creeping villain. The simplest and least expensive removal treatment is to apply a solution of 10 parts water to one part common bleach (a 10 percent solution)* to the affected areas. Be sure to wet foundation plantings first, and rinse everything in clean water when done to protect your plants from the bleach. Wear gloves and be careful not to come into direct contact with the bleach.

Local home improvement and hardware stores may also stock products designed specifically to treat algae

and mildew. Power washing your house occasionally with water only may help prevent mildew and algae from gaining a foothold.

*Higher concentrations of bleach may discolor your paint.

What is Algae?

Algae, a plant, is typically green, dark blue, red or orange. This airborne living organism can occur on almost any building material, including wooden and fiber cement siding, fences, concrete, roof shingles and bricks.

What is Mildew?

Mildew, a fungus, can be identified as a blackish gray stain that appears like dirt, but does not come off with detergent.

For more information about Covenants and Standards in The Woodlands, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/covenants.

HOME POOL SAFETY

By Cynthia Roberts, Aquatics Supervisor

Theweather is warming up and it’s time to get those home pools ready for the summer! If you, your neighbors or your child’s friends have a home pool, here are some tips to keep in mind for family safety.

What can you do to prevent a home tragedy? Most people teach their children the basic rules of the pool: Never swim alone, don’t run or play dangerous games, and call 9-1-1 in an emergency. But does your family know these important tips?

1. Lock the Doors and Gates Babies and toddlers probably cannot open a locked door or gate. But as all parents know, leave one open and they will find it! Teach older kids and teens the importance of shutting and locking gates.

2. Designate “Water Watchers” Never allow anyone to swim alone. Especially during parties, have a

designated “water watcher” – an adult whose only responsibility is watching the whole pool and keeping children within sight. Drowning isn’t like what you see in the movies – it’s often silent, so having someone watching the water is key!

3. “Reach or Throw, Don’t Go!” Active drowning victims have one goal in mind – to grab hold of something that will save them, even if that something is you! Teach your children that if someone is in trouble in the water, give them some THING to grab onto – not some ONE. Large white ring buoys and fiberglass reaching poles are perfect for helping in an emergency if they are kept close to the water. If you don’t have one of those around your pool, improvise! A rake, branch or even a folded umbrella can do the trick!

Limiting access to the pool is the best way to prevent non-swimmers from getting hurt. The best thing to do for your family’s safety when it comes to a home pool is to teach everyone how to swim! Start with basic survival floating and treading water and build skills from there. If you are interested in help getting these basic moves down, or for more advanced lessons, the Township offers both group and private swim lessons utilizing the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Program.

For more information about aquatic programs offered by The Woodlands Township, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ pools, or visit The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE:

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Memorial Day Event

Vendor registration is open now for booth space at The Woodlands Township’s annual Memorial Day Event and Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza, where restaurants, retailers and other businesses can reach thousands of families who attend the signature holiday events in The Woodlands.

By Liz Aguirre

The Memorial Day in The Woodlands event takes place on Sunday, May 29, 2022, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Town Green Park. All vendor applications must be received by Monday, May 9, 2022. Applications will only be processed once payment has been received. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ memorialday.

The Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza in The Woodlands takes place on Monday, July 4, 2022, from 6 to 10 p.m. at various parks throughout The Woodlands. All vendor applications must be received by Monday, June 20, 2022. Applications will only be processed once payment is received. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ fourthofjuly.

The Woodlands Township offers sponsorship opportunities for upcoming events this summer. Vendors are invited to submit their application as soon as possible, as space is limited.

Photo by Derrick Bryant

JOIN THE TOWNSHIP FOR Springtime Events

Families will find plenty to do together this spring with The Woodlands Township! Choose from a variety of springtime activities to find just the right fit for a busy family schedule. Pre-registration is required; registration on event day not permitted unless space and supplies allow. Please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950 to secure a spot! For detailed program descriptions and pricing, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun.

Important Notice:

By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and / or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-2103800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G,

SPEND YOUR SUMMER AT SUNNY DAYZ CAMP

The Woodlands Township’s Sunny Dayz Camp offers two camp locations to provide quality care and activities your children will love this summer. Campers will spend their days playing at the park, swimming, crafting and learning through interactive STEM projects. Each camp hosts fun activities including epic field trips, special guests and exciting theme days.

For older campers, ages 13 to 15, Sunny Dayz offers the Teen Camp program at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park and a Counselor-in-Training opportunity at The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park.

May 31 – August 15, 2022

AGE GROUPS

Explorers: Ages 6 to 8

Adventurers: Ages 9 to 12

Teen Camp (Rob Fleming) and Counselor-in-Training (Bear Branch): Ages 13 to 15

PRICING

Full Week: $200

Daily rates are also available

LOCATIONS

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 281-516-7348

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 281-210-3950

5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

Please scan the QR code to visit the Sunny Dayz webpage for more information and to access the Parent Handbook.

By Zoe Killian

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY Every Day!

After365 rotations, Earth Day arrives again on Friday, April 22, 2022. The Woodlands Township’s vision strives to create balance between man and nature. One of the ways in which we strike that balance is to do our part to keep our natural environment healthy. In 2021, residents kept that vision alive by volunteering almost 7,000 hours to environmental projects.

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department offers opportunities for everyone to play a part in keeping the community beautiful and healthy in 2022. Celebrate Earth Day every day this year and help keep our hometown vision alive.

Invasive Species Task Force

Invasive plant species such as air potato vine disrupt ecosystem interactions, outcompete native species, destroy habitats and use up to three times more water than native species. Turn the tables on these invaders by joining the Invasive Species Task Force, a resident volunteer corps with more than 100 members who remove invasive plants from our green spaces.

Clean Water Project

Pollutants entering storm drains harm water quality, endanger wildlife and pose health risks to humans. A volunteer effort began last year to install a marker on every storm drain in The Woodlands, reminding us that only rain belongs in the drain. Help is needed to install markers in your neighborhood.

Litter Cleanup

Litter endangers wildlife, reduces property values and pollutes our soil, water and air. Join the team of volunteers in removing litter from The Woodlands. Borrow equipment for one-time litter cleanups at local parks and natural areas or consider an ongoing commitment such as the Adopt-A-Path program. It’s a rewarding opportunity for families or organizations. A pathway sign will recognize your efforts.

Plant for Pollinators

Habitat loss and overuse of pesticides and herbicides impacts local pollinators. The Plant for Pollinators program helps protect butterflies, bees, moths, hummingbirds and all pollinators by planting milkweed in

green spaces and developing pollinator habitat. The Township Environmental Services Department provides resources for creating pollinator habitats around your home, church, school or workplace.

Recycle Right, Recycle More

Recycling decreases the need for landfill space, saves energy and natural resources, and reduces pollution. Help keep our recycling program running strong by only placing cans, cartons, cardboard, paper, glass bottles and jars, and plastic bottles and tubs in the curbside bin. Please don’t bag your recyclables but place them loose in the cart. Review the Recycle More Guide at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/recyclemore to find out how to recycle right.

The Woodlands is a vibrant and beautiful community thanks to the support of resident volunteers and the work of Township staff. Please help us in our mission of keeping our environment healthy by volunteering for one (or more) of the projects above in the coming year. For more information about these volunteer opportunities and to sign up, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/volunteer.

Change Your Story

Jesus changed the story of death. He can change your story too.

JOIN US EASTER WEEKEND

APRIL 16 - 17

Begin a new chapter of hope for your life. The Woodlands Methodist Church has contemporary, traditional and modern worship services for your whole family.

Find a full schedule of Holy Week and Easter services at thewoodlandsmethodist.org/easter