June 2013

6

on the Cover

t he Woodlands township recently dedicated the newly rebuilt Central Fire station and the Central station Memorial. see page 22 for more information about the dedication ceremony. Pictured, from left, Driver Operator Joe hartman, Driver Operator Bryan Crivelli, township Director Mike Bass, township President Don Norrell, Battalion Chief Bob Moore, township Vice Chairman Peggy s. hausman, children Decker lent, Cooper Berg (in fire gear), Camila Belforti, Valentina Belforti, township Chairman Bruce tough, Fire Chief a lan B. Benson, township Director Nelda luce Blair, Firefighter Manuel adler, township treasurer Gordy Bunch, Firefighter eric McCordic and Firefighter tyler Knutson, with relay the dog in front.

Cover photo by Susan Schneider

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

main line

All Offices and Departments 28-20-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and environmental services 8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

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

oTher service providers

The Woodlands Joint Powers agency (Water) 281-367-1271

montgomery County sheriff’s office

281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. - 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

emergency 9

The Woodlands To W nship opens CenTral sTaTion

earlierthis spring, t he Woodlands township celebrated the opening of t he Woodlands Fire Department Central station. It is a beautiful facility that houses firefighters, fire administration, dispatchers and the township emergency Operations Center. see pages 22 and 23 for photos from the grand opening event.

the number one priority of the Woodlands township Board of Directors is to ensure the safety of its citizens: 105,000 residents and 2,000 businesses. this priority is why the Board is committed to enhanced public safety and provides funding for the latest technological equipment and state-of-the-art facilities, such as Central station, to protect the property of residents and businesses.

t he Woodlands Fire Department is an elite fire department in the united states. t he Insurance service Office (IsO) rates fire departments on a scale of 1-10, 1 being the best. t his summer, t he Woodlands township will be reevaluated by the IsO, and it is anticipated that our community will receive the highest rating, IsO 1. t here are fewer than 60 fire departments out of 58,000 in the united states that hold this distinction. t he township Board of Directors is very proud of t he Woodlands Fire Department and its commitment to public safety and the welfare of citizens. to schedule a tour at any of the Woodlands’ fire stations this summer, including Central station, please call 281-367-3444.

For more opportunities for summer fun, see page 12 to read about the Voyager Pass, t he Woodlands township’s transportation and recreation amenity pass that is exclusively available to residents of the Woodlands! Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx-gov/voyager for more details.

The Woodlands Covenants strictly prohibit the sale or use of home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands. See page 32 for more information.

Gordy Bunch

Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass Position No. 2 Director

Jeff Long Position No. 3 Director

Nelda Blair Position No. 5 Director

Bruce Tough

Position No. 7 Chairman

Peggy Hausman

Position No. 6 Vice Chairman

Ed Robb

Position No. 4 Secretary

advertising

Cham

The Ultimate Destination The Woodlands

The place to celebrate the Fourth of July is The Woodlands, Texas! A spectacular lineup of events provides days of entertainment for the entire family.

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Star-Spangled Salute

the holiday festivities begin on Wednesday, July 3, 2013, with the houston symphony’s star- spangled salute, conducted by Michael Krajewski. the concert features a selection of patriotic favorites, american classics, sing-alongs, and of course, tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” complete with cannons from atop the hill. the Woodlands Development Company has proudly sponsored the “star spangled salute” concert since 1990. the concert begins at 8 p.m. at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, and admission is free. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Fourth of July Parade

t he 4th of July parade will begin at 9 a.m. in t he Woodlands town Center. Join the thousands of spectators along the 1.3-mile parade route that begins and ends at t he Woodlands united Methodist Church. Bring lawn chairs and get a spot early to enjoy the pre-parade entertainment of jugglers, clowns, magicians, and much more! t he theme for the 2013 parade is “Parade of stars.” a tent will be set up in front of t he Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for senior citizens and the physically challenged to obtain relief from the summer heat. roads will be closed during the parade. Public parking is available throughout the town Center area; parade parking will not be allowed in either t he Woodlands united Methodist Church or h-e-B Woodlands Market parking lots. Visit www.4thofJuly.org for more information, including a map.

Family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, clowns, horses and many exciting commercial floats. the parade will again proudly feature marching bands in conjunction with the south County Fourth of July Committee 8th annual Marching Band Scholarship Program. There will be more than five marching bands this year! alex sutton and tim Welbes will be the parade’s co-grand marshals! Judging will occur on the parade route just above the North Passage in Market street. awards will be presented on July 4 on the main stage at the red, hot & Blue Festival. entries will be judged in the following categories:

• Most Beautiful entry

• Most Patriotic entry

• entry with Best use of t heme

• Best Musical entry

• t he President’s award

• Best Military entry

• Community entry award

• youth entry award

• Most enthusiastic entry

• trophy only: Best Professionally Built Commercial Float

s ponsorships

t he south County Fourth of July parade has many sponsorship levels available. Contact the committee at 281-210-3975 or visit www.4thofjuly.org.

Volunteers needed

Please contact the south County Fourth of July committee at 281-210-3975. It takes numerous volunteers to make this event happen!

Splash Day

stay cool at one of the community pools in the Woodlands. all Woodlands pools are Free for splash day on Thursday, July 4, 2013. Pools are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with splash Day activities scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Presented by Kroger.

Things That Go Bike Parade

Before the Concert in the Park, bring your favorite bike, tricycle, scooter or wagon to Northshore Park for the annual decorating contest and parade.

t he Free event is on Thursday, July 4, 2013, with decorating starting at 4:30 p.m.

and the parade and judging beginning at 5:15 p.m. limited decorating materials are provided; you can also bring your own. For ages 14 and younger.

Concert in the Park

Pack a picnic and bring your lawn chairs to Northshore Park on Thursday, July 4, 2013, for a Free concert in the park. enjoy an evening of country and americana with hope Cassity, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Fourth of July wouldn’t be complete without a breathtaking fireworks display! head to town Green Park and t he Woodlands Waterway® for the 16th annual red, hot & Blue Festival presented by ellis & ellis and Fireworks extravaganza presented by BBva compass on Thursday, July 4, 2013, from 6 to 10 p.m., produced by t he Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. see page 8 for more information about this event!

New for 2013!

The Fireworks extravaganza will be launched from two locations – Timberloch place near i-45 and Waterway square. Best viewing along The Woodlands Waterway.®

The Woodlands Celebrates

The 16th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Celebrate our nation’s independence in the Woodlands with one of the area’s largest fireworks displays, live music, children’s activities, vendors and more at the 16th annual red, hot & Blue Festival, presented by ellis & ellis Private Wealth Management, on t hursday, July 4, 2013, from 6 to 10 p.m.

Produced by t he Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, the festival will be held in town Green Park and Waterway square, both located along t he Woodlands Waterway.® Guests will enjoy hot dog- and watermeloneating contests, face painting, strolling performers, games, inflatables, arts and crafts, concessions, a beer tent, plus much more.

One of the Largest Fireworks

Displays in the Houston Area at dusk, the red, hot & Blue Fireworks extravaganza, presented by BBVa Compass, will light up the night sky, dazzling the thousands of spectators gathered to watch. t he breathtaking, 20-minute fireworks display will be simulcast on sunny 99.1.

New for 2013! the Fireworks extravaganza will be launched from two locations – on timberloch Place near I-45 and Waterway square! along the Woodlands Waterway®

offers the best spot for viewing the fireworks display, according to organizers. Coolers, outside food and drinks are prohibited in town Green Park and Waterway square.

“red, hot & Blue has become texas’ premier July Fourth celebration,” says Nick Wolda, president of t he Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We welcome the growing number of visitors each year that travel to t he Woodlands for this exciting, family-friendly event.”

While the fireworks show is certainly front-and-center, there are plenty of other fun and patriotic events in t he Woodlands throughout the week. On saturday, June 29, 2013, enjoy the acoustic sounds of Clayton DeGuerre and strolling entertainment at Waterway Nights,

Festival locations: Town green Park and Waterway square Best fireworks viewing: along The Woodlands Waterway

a kid-friendly and popular concert series from 6 to 8 p.m., at Waterway square. see page 25 for more activities!

On t hursday, July 4, 2013, enjoy free, live music at town Green Park and Waterway square at the red, hot & Blue Festival, from 6 to 10 p.m. acts include the country and a mericana sounds of Grady skelton, country and folk singer Parker McCollum, classic rock favorite sera Ph and t he Knowhow, an alternative rock and blues band.

Waterway Cruisers will operate Monday, July 1, 2013, through t hursday, July 4, 2013. service will stop before the fireworks display. t he Cruisers will resume their regular schedule on Friday, July 5, 2013.

t hose visiting t he Woodlands for the week can choose accommodations to suit any taste and budget, including t he Woodlands resort with its Forest Oasis Waterscape, t he Woodlands Waterway Marriott hotel, a four-diamond property, or hyatt Market street. a number of limited-service and select-service properties also are available.

the annual red, hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks extravaganza is free and open to the public thanks to generous sponsors: ellis & ellis Private Wealth Investors, BBVa Compass, h-e-B, Memorial hermann t he Woodlands hospital, Coca-Cola, talisman energy, City of shenandoah, Waste Management, Wright’s Printing, Bud light, t he Woodlands Development Company, st. luke’s – t he Woodlands hospital, Congressman Kevin Brady, Planet Ford, City of Oak r idge North, splashtown, t he Woodlands Country Club & Canongate, r ico’s Mexican Grille and Gigi’s Cupcakes.

For more information, a complete schedule of activities, maps and up-to-date parking information or a listing of hotels and pools in the area, visit www.redhotblue.org. For more information on t he Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, visit www.Visitt heWoodlands.com. also, “like” t he Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ VisittheWoodlands, “follow” them on twitter at www.twitter.com/theWoodlandsCVB and “view” them on youtube at www.youtube. com/ t heWoodlandsCVB.

by Bob Dailey

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency

residents are urged to take seriously the new Odd/ even Defined Irrigation Plan now in force in t he Woodlands. t he plan regulates lawn watering to two nights per week.

Beginning in June, t he Woodlands Joint Powers agency will issue penalties for those who don’t comply. a fter an initial warning notice, subsequent violations will incur a surcharge that will be added to the water bills of residents (commercial and residential) who do not follow the schedule. t he charges are $50 for the second notice, $100 for the third notice and $200 for the fourth and every subsequent notice.

t he odd/even program, which began in January 2013, requires that all addresses in t he Woodlands adhere to the program that allows watering two

nights a week between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. on specified days. Odd addresses (those ending in 1,3,5,7,9) are allowed to water from 8 p.m. tuesday to 4 a.m. Wednesday and from 8 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. saturday. even addresses (0,2,4,6,8) may water from 8 p.m. Wednesday to 4 a.m. t hursday and from 8 p.m. saturday to 4 a.m. sunday. t he requirements do not only apply to residences. Businesses, churches, public facilities and all other properties are also included in the program. t he Woodlands Joint Powers agency, in special cases, may grant variances of this policy to someone demonstrating significant hardship or need. t he decision of the board will be final.

t he Defined Irrigation schedule does not apply to residents in the Village of Creekside Park or May Valley in

the Village of sterling r idge. Both are served by municipal utility districts outside t he Woodlands. additionally, M u D 40 did not adopt the Defined Irrigation schedule but supports a voluntary odd/even irrigation schedule and implementation of the Drought Contingency Plan as warranted.

the Woodlands township is proud to introduce a new service available to its resident season pool pass holders: The Voyager Transportation and Recreation Pass! In addition to having access to all township pools, the Voyager Pass allows the pass holder a certain number of entries to r iva row Boat house, the Waterway Cruisers and t he Ice r ink at t he Woodlands town Center.

t he Voyager transportation and recreation Pass is available at two levels, basic and premium. t he basic level, priced at $75, will allow the pass holder three entries to the amenities and services listed above, in addition to access to all township pools.

t he premium level, priced at $100, allows the pass holder five entries to the three amenities, plus the pools.

t he Voyager Pass is only available for residents of t he Woodlands at the time of purchasing a season pool pass.

The Solution for time Fun! Summer

FInD

Season Pool Pass

Riva Row Boat House ..................................

Waterway Cruisers

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/rivarowboathouse

www.thewoodlandswaterwaycrusiers.com

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center www.thewoodlandscvb.com/woodlandsicerink

RegulaR season daily use

June 7 – August 25, 2013

During the regular pool season, a lden Bridge, Windvale, Wendtwoods (new this year), Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Falconwing, harper’s landing, r idgewood and sawmill Pools, as well as the rob Fleming aquatic Center, will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through saturday. lakeside, shadowbend, Forestgate and Creekwood Pools will be open from noon to 6 p.m., Monday through saturday. a ll pools are open from 1 to 6 p.m. on sunday. a ll pools are closed one day each for training and maintenance.

Pool RenTals

Pools are available for rental throughout the pool season. For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools. to make a reservation, please call 281-210-3800 or e-mail parkrec@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

season Pool Pass

a new season pool pass must be purchased at t he Woodlands township recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive. hours of operation are Monday through t hursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pool pass forms are also available on the township Web site. to renew a season pool pass, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools, call 281-210-3950 or stop by t he Woodlands township recreation Center. Don’t forget that the only time to take advantage of the township’s newest amenity, the Voyager Pass, is when purchasing a season pool pass. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/voyager for more details.

3 years and older

No addt’l family discount or senior discount.

PunCh CaRds

resident Punch Card (6 visits) $30

All pools except Rob Fleming

resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits) $40

Non-resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits)

all

june

saturday, June 

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

Waterway Nights Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447

Tuesday, June 4

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Wednesday, June 5

Development Standards Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 5:30 p.m. 281-210-3973

Thursday, June 6

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, June 7

Regular pool season hours begin. See page 14 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Gorilla Hole

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

saturday, June 8

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Waterway Nights Waterway Square 6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

Tuesday, June 

Heartsaver CPR Class emergency Training Center 6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, June 3

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Friday, June 4

Flag Day

saturday, June 5

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR Class emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

First Aid Class emergency Training Center

noon to 3:30 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

sunday, June 6

Father’s Day

monday, June 7

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, June 8

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Wednesday, June 9

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 5:30 p.m.

281-210-3973

Thursday, June 20

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 9 a.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, June 22

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447

Dive-in Movie

Thunderstruck

Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

8:30 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3800.

Admission is $5 per person (ages 3 and younger are free).

monday, June 24

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Tuesday, June 25

Healthcare Provider CPR Class emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 p.m. 281-210-3887

Wednesday, June 26

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. noon to 1 p.m. 281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, June 29

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

upcoming events

Thursday, July 4

See pages 6 and 7 for details.

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

holiday Garbage collection schedule

No changes in garbage service for June. t here will be no pick-up on Independence Day (t hursday, July 4, 2013). Neighborhoods that usually receive collection on t hursday will have their service delayed by one day. all subsequent routes for the rest of the week will also be delayed by one day. Friday’s route will receive service on saturday. all solid waste services are affected. regular service will resume on Monday, July 8, 2013. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment.

Alden Bridge

this month’s board and residents meeting will be held on tuesday, June 11, 2013, at 7 p.m. at the township building, 2801 technology Forest Blvd. all residents are invited to attend and bring us your questions and concerns. as of this date our speaker has not been scheduled, but watch our Web site for updates.

We’re very proud to announce the winners of our three $1,000 scholarships for 2013! Zheyuan shan, sydney Barker and Morgan stokes are all outstanding in terms of scholarship and community/ school involvement. there were so many deserving applicants and choosing just three was very difficult. Best wishes to all alden Bridge students graduating this year!

save the date: alden Bridge will again participate in the villages’ trip to the astros vs. New york yankees game at 6:05 p.m. on saturday, september 28, 2013. tickets are $21 each and the price includes round-trip transport by bus from our village center. Contact info@aldenbridge.org

if you’d like to purchase tickets.

We’re seeking nominations for our yard of the Month award. Please send your choices for best front yard in the village to info@aldenbridge.org. each monthly winner receives tickets from t he Pavilion, goodies from Chick-fil-a, a gardening book from lowe’s and a yard sign recognizing all the hard work that goes into creating an award-winning yard. Nominate those neighbors who work hard in their yard every weekend!

Our electronic newsletter is distributed monthly to more than 800 households. to subscribe, please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org. t his information will not be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village. Between newsletters, please check our Web site (www.aldenbridge.org) for up-to-date information.

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

some notes of interest:

• t he Cochran’s Crossing Village association will hold its Pool Party on saturday, June 8, 2013, at Bear Branch Park from 3 to 6 p.m. as they did last year, Kona Ice will be there as well as Barbara Cargill and her “critters.” t here is no charge to attend the party.

• t he Cochran’s Crossing Village association had a strong representation at the earth Day Greenup held on saturday, March 23, 2013, and was greatly assisted by Cub scout Pack 883.

• t he water pipeline project is underway and sections of research Forest will be affected through this year and the end of 2014.

t he Cochran’s Crossing Village association encourages Cochran’s Crossing residents to attend meetings on the last tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. in the township community room. t his is particularly important if they have concerns or positive recognition they would like to communicate to the township. It is also a way to be better informed on village matters such as security, transportation and community events.

the March meeting was a great example of how effective this can be as a means of communication. the subject was the renovation of shadowbend Park. Word that this would be discussed at the meeting was sent to Cochran’s Crossing Village association residents in various ways. apparently the word got out to the community. More than 30 residents filled the room to hear about the project, which has a $500,000 budget, and to provide recommendations for the renovation.

Jim Patterson of White Oak studio, the consulting company helping with design recommendations, provided details of the park as it currently exists. he said updating and upgrading the pool would definitely be part of the effort. Preliminary

design will be provided to the township this summer with construction to begin in 2014. Questions about the project should be directed to Kelly Dietrich, assistant director of parks and recreation, at 281-210-3800.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

here is a big happy summer greeting from your College Park Village association, to all of the residents! It is so wonderful to see everyone out and about around the community enjoying their families and the warm summer weather. Our hard-working students are now on summer break and we hope that they all enjoy their summer months, whether it is going on a vacation destination with their families, working in our community or just out and about enjoying the amenities t he Woodlands has to offer!

Our next big event to look forward to is the 4th of July! t he 4th of July parade is always a joy to either be a part of or to watch as a spectator. Please check with your village president and volunteer to be a part of their parade float creation! July is always such a hOt month, and it would really help the villages if more volunteers worked on the parade floats, and any activities that are happening. refer to your village Web site to keep up with the upcoming activities.

College Park had a fantastic spring Fling at harper’s landing Park! It is great to see so many families come out and be a part of our scheduled events! We always have a signup sheet at our events to leave your e-mail address so that you can receive our College Park newsletter.

Now that summer is here, please be aware of the activity in your neighborhood! as neighbors, let each other know when you will be away, so that garbage cans are not left out, or newspapers are not piled up in your driveway, etc. t hose are a few hints that you are away and we haV e to watch out for each other’s properties! you can visit t he Woodlands township Web site, and click resident, Woodlands Watch, then Vacation Information Form and follow the directions to fill out the form. It is a great service that is offered for our residents.

remember our monthly College Park meeting is always the third Monday of each month. Our new location is at t he Woodlands township building at 2801 technology Forest Blvd., t he Woodlands, tX.

Please try to attend our meetings and educate yourself and your family on the issues being discussed and also the upcoming events in our village and community! your thoughts and concerns are always addressed during the time allotted for resident comments.

have fun during these summer months and keep safe and healthy!

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Grogan’s Mill

Visit the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market every saturday, rain or shine, at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, at the corner of Grogan’s Mill road and south Millbend, from 8 a.m. until noon. Check the Web site at www.grogansmillvillage.com for the latest information on vendors and products and to subscribe to Friday’s weekly Farmer’s Market e-blast newsletter. at the market, stop by the Grogan’s Mill Village association booth to pick up information and coupons from our Village Center merchants. a ll proceeds collected are returned to the community

by way of our philanthropic programs, such as providing scholarships and providing financial support to our schools and the local food bank.

With the Fourth of July approaching fast, the Grogan’s Mill Village association is preparing to sponsor another entry in the annual parade. all Grogan’s Mill residents are invited to join us for building our float and riding in the parade. Please contact any of the board officers listed on our Web site if you would like to volunteer. We could use your creativity and labor on this always-fun project.

m ee T ing i n F o R ma T ion

the Grogan’s Mill Village association yard of the Month May recipient is l ois Barry of Green Blade lane. l ois has lived in her home for 27 years growing many different plants that would tolerate the shady areas. l ois does most of the work herself but is always grateful for assistance from her son Dave.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

2013 indian springs village association community service scholarships

the Indian springs Village association is proud to recognize seven truly inspiring members of our community and to assist in furthering their education with $1,000 scholarships. Congratulations to the following Indian springs residents recently recognized for their commitment to community service: Clarke Cagle, continued on page 20

a lden Brid G e

The Alden Bridge Village Association (ABVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.aldenbridge.org

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

c ochran’s c rossin G

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Web site www.cochranscrossing.com

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

c olle G e park

The College Park Village Association (CPVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.villageofcollegepark.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Ted Stanley at 936-321-5996.

c reekside park

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association (TWCPVA) usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Creekside YMCA, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Please join us!

Web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President nancy Decker Lent at 617-721-6939.

Gro G an’s Mill

The grogan’s Mill Village Association (gMVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Contact your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association

President Jim Duke at president@gmva.org.

i ndian s prin G s

The Indian Springs Village Association (ISVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Amy Lecocq at 832-244-9585.

pan T her c reek

The Panther Creek Village Association (PCVA) usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

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

sT erlin G r id G e

The Sterling Ridge Village Association (SRVA) usually meets the fourth Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Web site www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Phillip givens at 281-419-9331.

e ven T s in you R nei G h B orhood

lucy Fang, a riane huet, astha Mithal, austin terry, yarlini Vipulanandan and shen yoon.

t he Indian springs scholarship committee was duly impressed by all the scholarship applicants and expects to continue to see great things from the outstanding youth in our community. so many qualified applications were received that the committee increased the number of scholarship recipients from five in 2012 to seven in 2013. t his village is certainly fortunate to have so many wonderful, serviceoriented young people in Indian springs.

“like” us on Facebook to find out more about our scholarships and other community information and events, please like us on Facebook or visit our Web site at www.indianspringsvillage.com.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

t he Panther Creek Village association will kick off the summer with several events. t he annual Flag Day Picnic will be held at r idgewood Park on Interfaith Drive on June 15, 2013, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. t his is a very popular free event for young and old. Our master chefs will be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers to go with the ice cold sodas and snacks for all to enjoy. last year’s big hit, the Kona Ice truck will be serving up their special treats again this year. t he pool will be open to all for free. t here will be a special Flag Day display with veterans from the VFW to share information on flag history and etiquette. so bring the kids, bring the neighbors, and most importantly bring yourself.

your Panther Creek Village association meets the second t hursday of each month at t he Woodlands township building, 2801 technology Forest Blvd., at 7 p.m. a ll residents are welcome to come and hear reports from local law enforcement, community events, and issues that affect you.

Join the celebration and parade on the Fourth of July. t he parade route will start and end at t he Woodlands

united Methodist Church with parking in the town Center area. Bring your lawn chairs, sit back and enjoy the show. l ook for the Panther Creek Village association panther riding in style! save a spot on your calendar for the annual outing to watch the houston astros play the New york yankees at Minute Maid Park. On september 28, 2013, we’ll board a comfortable bus at the Panther Creek shopping Center for an enjoyable trip that is included with your ticket price. Call Mary Bootz at 281-296-9960 for information and tickets.

a special thanks to the many Panther Creek residents who helped put on another successful Flea Market in March. Whether you are a bargain hunter or have items you’d like to sell, start planning for our Fall Flea Market.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Photo by e rika Bondy Pratt

Photo by Peggy S. Hausman

The Music of Michael Jackson

and d edi C a T ion

Following the dedication of the building, a ceremony was held at the front of the facility for the Central Station Memorial. The memorial is built around the concept of three components that are significant to the fire service—a bell, a water feature and fire—and is dedicated to the remembrance of those firefighters who perished while protecting others. During the ceremony, Volunteer Chaplain Steve Vaughn led the gathering in a moment of silence to remember the public safety personnel who recently lost their lives in the West, Texas, plant explosion. The Board of Directors participated with the firefighters in observing two traditions: the uncoupling of fire hoses followed by physically pushing the engine into the station. Both are old fire service traditions signifying that the station and the firefighters are prepared and ready for the next call of service.

Photos by Terri Jefferies

Photos by Susan Schneider

Firefighters and community leaders gathered for the official grand opening and dedication of t he Woodlands township Fire Department’s new Central station. t he facility is the hub of t he Woodlands Fire Department, which also houses the township emergency Operations Center, t he Woodlands Fire Communication Center and t he Woodlands Fire administration offices. Personnel assigned to this station provide fire, rescue and eMs service while maintaining the established five-minute response criteria to town Center and the Villages of Grogan’s Mill and Panther Creek. Funding for the Central Fire station was provided from proceeds from t he Woodlands township 2009 general obligation bond.

speakers for the event included t he Woodlands township Chairman Bruce tough, t he Woodlands Fire Department Chief a lan B. Benson, and Bill Neill, who was the first fire chief of t he Woodlands Fire Department. todd stephens, district director for u s. Congressman Kevin Brady’s office, presented the station with a united states flag. Janet stieben, chief of staff for texas senator tommy Williams’ office, presented the station with a texas flag.

A 70” x 30” piece of artwork, painted by more than 1,000 children and adults during last year’s Children’s Festival, was presented to the station from Vickie McMillan, a local wildlife conservation artist. The painting honors those who lost their homes during the 2011 Montgomery County wildfires, as well as the firefighters who helped them.

about the Facility

• 26,610 square feet

• Four apparatus bays

• Living quarters and 12 dorm rooms

• Administrative offices, dispatch center and Township emergency operations Center

• equipment: fire engine, command vehicle, ladder truck, rescue boat, attack vehicle and a Montgomery County Hospital District unit

• Serves 105,000 residents and 2,000 businesses

• Architect: Joiner Partnership, Inc.

• Contractor: Durotech, Inc.

Photo by Susan Schneider

Bill Neill, The Woodlands Fire Department’s first fire chief, spoke during the event.

Janet Stieben with Texas Senator Tommy Williams’ office presented Chief Alan Benson with a Texas flag for Central Station.

Todd Stephens (left) with U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady’s office presented a U.S. flag to Chief Benson.

By susan Martin

T H e Woo D l ANDS WATC H

the International society of Crime Prevention Practitioners recently recognized t he Woodlands Watch as the Community Based Crime Prevention Program of the year. t his award recognizes the efforts of the crime prevention initiatives of t he Woodlands Watch and its volunteer network. t he Watch program incorporates the concept of community policing, which states that law enforcement and citizens must work together. a ll of us acting as the eyes and ears of our community will help deter crime.

as t he Woodlands continues to grow, so does the need for residents to be vigilant and to take part in crime prevention efforts in their homes and in their neighborhoods. t he strength of t he Woodlands Watch has always been in the dedication of volunteers who devote their time and talents for the good of the community. since its inception in 1984, the Watch program has grown to more than 22,000 members, with more than 1,600 volunteer Watch coordinators helping to bring the crime prevention message into their neighborhoods. however, volunteer Watch coordinators

are still needed in some neighborhoods of t he Woodlands.

how it works…t he Woodlands township and the volunteer Watch coordinators encourage Neighbor knowing Neighbor as the first step in crime prevention. t his concept forges a bond among area residents and provides the extra eyes and ears for reporting crime and suspicious activity. t hrough the Watch program, township staff and volunteer Watch coordinators utilize many fun and informative ways to help residents get to know their neighbors and to educate them on crime prevention. In addition, township staff, working with law enforcement, can communicate crime trends and other information to volunteer Watch coordinators, who in turn pass it on to their neighbors.

t he Woodlands Watch program is a great way to get involved in the community and to get to know your neighbors. If your neighborhood does not participate in this proactive program, contact t he Woodlands township at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. t he township will provide you and your neighbors with the tools you need to get

organized. For further information about t he Woodlands Watch program, and many other programs and events, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

t he Woodlands Watch program works jointly with the Montgomery County sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention unit and harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 4 to bring excellent crime prevention programming to residents of t he Woodlands. If you witness suspicious activity, please contact Montgomery County sheriff’s Office at 936-442-7797 or the harris County Constable Office, Precinct 4 at 281-376-3472.

Members from the Neighborhood Services staff are ready to help you become part of their award-winning program!

From left, Veronica Hernandez-Mena, Susan Golden, Peggy Krysiak, Susan Martin, Cindy Strawn, Holly Steinke, Kristin Pternitis, Marian Leck and John Osborne.

Photo by Susan Schneider

By holly steinke

Vacation Watch is a service of both the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office and Harris County Constable Precinct 4 where

a deputy will check on your home while you are on vacation.

To sign up for vacation Watch:

• In Montgomery County, visit the Montgomery County sheriff’s Office Web site at www.mocosheriff.com/dyncat.cfm?catid=4512 and click on, complete and submit the form at the bottom of the page. If you don’t have access to the internet, please contact them at 936-442-7797 to sign up.

• In the Village of Creekside Park in harris County, visit the harrris County Constable, Precinct 4 Web site at www.cd4.hctx.net/services.php and click on, complete and send the form at the bottom of the page. select Villages of Creekside for your Contract Name. If you don’t have access to the internet, please contact them at 281-376-3472 to sign up.

• a lways notify law enforcement if you leave later or come home early!

Get to know your neighbors!

• Join t he Woodlands Watch and participate in activities with your neighborhood. If you don’t have a Watch coordinator on your block, consider volunteering. For more information, contact t he Woodlands township at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Before heading out of town, here are a few things to consider:

• sign up for Vacation Watch.

• leave contact numbers with a trusted neighbor or friend.

• ask a neighbor to pick up newspapers, fliers or packages left at your home.

• use motion lights and set lights on timers to go on and off at various times.

• set up a radio to make it sound like someone is at home.

• If gone for an extended time, ask someone to care for your yard.

• have your mail held by the post office or ask a friend to get it.

• lock all doors and windows.

• leave a house key with a trusted neighbor or friend.

• Make sure your vehicle is in good repair before you drive.

• have travel information with you and leave a copy with a family member, if feasible.

• set your home alarm and make sure the alarm company has your contact information.

Be Ready, Stay Info R med

Just Do one thing

by Lou DePadova, Communications Officer, The Woodlands CERT

Withso many things to consider during tropical storm season, getting and staying prepared can seem overwhelming. Emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. To support this, The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) adopted the Do One Thing program this year to make preparation easier by focusing on just one simple task each month, such as making a plan, collecting water and being informed.

The first simple task is to collect water. The availability of clean drinking water becomes a critical and immediate need following a natural disaster or emergency situation. Unfortunately, most people do not take the necessary steps to ensure that a sufficient supply of clean drinking water will be available when it is needed most. It is recommended to have one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

We encourage you to follow the plan, stay informed and be ready! You will be better prepared to handle most disasters and emergencies. Follow The Woodlands CERT on the web at www.twcert.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheWoodlandsCERT or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/WoodlandsCERT for more timely preparedness tips.

Monthly topics

Make a Plan

Water

Sheltering

Food

Work, School and Community

Unique Family Needs

Family Communication Plan

Get Involved

Be Informed Power

Emergency Supplies

First Aid

Members of The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) work at community events such as The Woodlands Waterway Art Festival. From left, Scott Darby, Woodlands CERT chair; Ed Commender (seated), Woodlands CERT logistics officer; Frank Votaw, Cy-Fair CERT; Analee Buchanan, Woodlands CERT; Holly Steinke, Township CERT liaison; Elena Skinner-Klee, Cy-Fair CERT; and Marti Eddington, Woodlands CERT operations officer.

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Legendary Masterpieces Texas Music Festival Orchestra

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Young Artists Competition Horst Förster, conductor

This summer at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, more than 100 gifted musicians from around the world are showcased in a free concert. Under the direction of Horst Förster, these young artists perform Richard Strauss’s “Don Juan,” Ops. 20 and Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5. The finalists and winner of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Young Artist Competition will be announced. Join us in supporting and celebrating these talented young artists.

Pre-concert activities in the North Plaza begin at 7 p.m.

Lawn chairs are FREE Picnics welcome

Being o utdoors

se A son

By lucinda Valdes

Whetherpicking up the mail, walking the dog or dining al fresco, taking a few precautions will help safeguard you and your family when outdoors this mosquito season says lynne a ldrich, manager of environmental services for t he Woodlands township.

Covering up to protect yourself from being bitten is rule number one. “When it comes to mosquitoes, what you wear does make a difference,” Ms. aldrich notes. Deter mosquitoes and avoid bites by wearing long, loose, light-colored clothing. “long sleeves and long pants are ideal.”

Nix the aftershave and perfume, and make mosquito repellent your new fragrance of choice. “Considering the length of time that you will be outside, choose the least-toxic product that works for you,” Ms. a ldrich suggests. t he

Centers for Disease Control recommends repellents that contain Deet, oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin or ir 3535. Follow package instructions, applying only to exposed skin and clothing. repellent should never be applied to cuts, wounds or rashes. Please keep repellents out of the reach of children.

Know thy enemy! enjoy your yard by timing outings to sidestep the biters. avoid being outdoors from dusk to dawn when disease-carrying mosquitoes are most active. “Mosquitoes are also very weak flyers,” notes Ms. a ldrich. she recommends using oscillating fans on porches, decks and gazebos to keep air moving and blow mosquitoes away. Ms. a ldrich offers one final, little known tip: inspect and repair leaky tanks on gas grills as mosquitoes are drawn to the carbon dioxide emission.

to learn more about protecting yourself and your family from nuisance mosquitoes and mosquito-borne disease, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ mosquitoinfo. to schedule a mosquito presentation for your neighborhood, group or club, contact lynne aldrich at laldrich@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800.

Photo by Lucinda Valdes

Before the evening’s soccer practice, Karlee’s mom applies mosquito repellent as a precaution to protect from mosquito-borne disease. The Centers for Disease Control recommends using just enough repellent to cover exposed skin and/or clothing. Heavy saturation is not required for effectiveness. If insects continue biting, apply a bit more.

THE Pizza Box! Trash

By lucinda Valdes

If you are a recycling fanatic—recycling anything and everything that you can— trashing a pizza box may just go against your grain. It may surprise you to learn that discarding food-soiled pizza boxes is the right thing to do!

While cardboard is a valuable commodity that is highly recyclable, pizza boxes soaked with oil, sauce and cheese are not! Food and grease are the biggest and costliest contaminates to the paper recycling process. a few soiled pizza boxes can ruin an entire batch of recycling, sending it all to the landfill. each year, contamination costs the recycling industry $700 million in damage to machinery, unanticipated disposal costs, inefficiency, lost time and wasted materials.

Yes, trash the pizza box! After the party, Brianne Darling and Ashton Johnson throw away soiled pizza boxes to keep contamination out of recycling. Only clean cardboard and paper are recyclable.

If you just can’t bear to trash the cardboard pizza box, remove and throw away the parts soiled with food and grease. t he clean cardboard, free of food debris and oil, can go into the recycling cart. to avoid confusion in a well-meaning spouse or teens in your family, share the 4-1-1 on pizza boxes with your household and keep recycling working! For more information about curbside recycling and tough disposal solutions, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ recycling or call 281-210-3800.

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

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

Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. all warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or

Phot by Lucinda Valdes