June 2018

Pool Schedule

Town Center Trolleys

Roll Out Service to Hughes Landing

Fourth of July Weekend IN THE WOODLANDS

Now is the Time for a Career in Real Estate, Loan, Inspection or Appraisal!

If you are considering a career in real estate or any related real estate field, you need to know how fortunate you are to live in Texas. The following are reasons Texas agents and affiliates are excited about our economy:

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• Texas housing sales rose 3.3% and average days on market are 57. Inventory levels remain historically low at 3.7 months. Recenter.tamu.edu

• Texas’ pace of job creation exceeded the nation’s for the year with an annual growth rate of 2.1%; the nation’s rate is at 1.7% Recenter.tamu.edu

• F ive cities in Texas are in Forbe’s Top 25 Best Places to Live in the U.S. The most from any state!

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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

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

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

Emergency 911

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

township board of directors

Township Begins Public Input Sessions for Governance/ Incorporation Planning

TheWoodlands Township Board of Directors recently announced the kickoff of future governance/incorporation planning meetings to involve Township residents in the dialogue of future governance options in The Woodlands.

The Township has engaged consulting firms to assist with the incorporation planning process and updates from the consultants will be provided at each of the Township Board meetings through 2018. The public will have the opportunity to provide feedback to the Board at each of the meetings. The Township will also be hosting community Town Hall meetings in September and in November to discuss the incorporation planning process.

Township Chairman Gordy Bunch said he and his colleagues on the Board desire to harness collective thoughts, ideas and opinions of Township residents.

“We are in the process of establishing and prioritizing challenges and solutions, gauging levels of support for specific ideas and activities, and contributing to the ongoing dialogue of our future governance structure,” he said. “The Township Board is all about awareness, informing, educating, and enhancing the credibility of this future governance process. We want residents of The Woodlands to be involved.”

To fully engage feedback from Township residents, the meeting scheduled for the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. will be strictly focused on input from residents and reports from two governance consultants.

All meetings are held at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381. Agendas are posted online 72 hours in advance of each meeting at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Please see In Case You Missed It, continued on page 11

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Brian Boniface Director

John McMullan Vice Chairman

Bruce Rieser Director

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary

Carol Stromatt Director Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer

No. 3

June 2018 • Volume 22 • Issue 6

The

Township,

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda Editor Mary Connell

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Emily Wright

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

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

DEEP IN THE HEART

Texas is hats and boots, legends, horns and Howdy! And it’s home to Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, where pushing boundaries and exploring new territory is our focus – all for the care of kids.

Located deep in the heart of The Woodlands, we offer convenient access to expert pediatricians and subspecialists – providing extraordinary care whenever you need it

For maps and information, visit texaschildrens.org/woodlands

By Adriana McGee

Hurricane Season is Underway…

Stay Informed with Township Communication Tools

Meteorologists are predicting another busy hurricane season, so now is the perfect time to start thinking about your emergency preparedness plan. While you’re restocking your emergency supply kit, make sure you also have access to all of The Woodlands Township communication tools.

Choose Your Preferred Communication Method(s)

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

When subscribing, you can choose to be notified through email, text messages or both. You can sign up for the weekly Talk of the Township eNewsletter, various departmental newsletters, communitywide emergency alerts, press releases and transit alerts.

Follow us on Social Media

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed

Social media was a critical communication tool used before, during and after Hurricane Harvey last year. Follow the

official Township Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for important updates, including Facebook Live videos.

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship

www.facebook.com/townshipparksandrec

ü “Like” our Facebook page(s)

ü Click the “Following” button

ü Select “See First” in your news feed

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

For Township updates: @TheTownshipTX

For The Woodlands Express Park and Ride and Town Center Trolley updates: @TownshipTransit

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Information can also be accessed via the Township Instagram account @thetownshiptx.

Other Emergency Resources

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency

During an emergency, residents are encouraged to monitor a variety of partner agency websites and tune in to radio station KSTAR 99.7 FM for information specific to The Woodlands. For a full list of emergency preparedness resources, visit the link above. In the event all communication efforts fail, you may go to one of The Woodlands’ eight fire stations for the latest updates.

Photo by Justin Ulmer

By Holly Steinke

How to Stay Informed in an Emergency

Emergency Preparedness Communications

PREPARE, PLAN, STAY INFORMED – VISIT WWW.READY.GOV

To stay informed before, during and after an emergency, check

The Woodlands Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, as long as electric power and Internet access permit. Be prepared to leave, if notified.

Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at www.mctxoem.org and Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at www.readyharris.org will post emergency information for their counties. To monitor hurricanes, visit The National Hurricane Center website at www.nhc.noaa.gov, listen to a NOAA weather radio and/or listen to your local news. Visit www.weather.gov/ hgx/ for other local weather information from the National Weather Service.

To monitor waterways, visit Harris County Flood Warning System at www.harriscountyfws.org/ and click ALL for Gages by Agency.

In addition to area Emergency Alert System (EAS) radio stations KTRH 740 AM and KUHF 88.7 FM, The Woodlands Township has an arrangement with K-STAR Country, 99.7 FM radio, to broadcast emergency information specific to The Woodlands in the event of a community-wide emergency.

In the event ALL communication efforts fail, residents may go to one of The Woodlands’ eight fire stations. The Woodlands fire stations will have the latest updates and information available for residents.

• Central Station and Administration Office 9951 Grogan’s Mill Road, 77380

• Station 2 – 9303 Gosling Road, 77381

• Station 3 – 1522 Sawdust Road, 77380

• Station 4 – 7900 Bay Branch Drive, 77382

• Station 5 – 10100 Branch Crossing Drive, 77382

• Station 6 – 1100 Windsor Lakes Boulevard, 77384

• Station 7 – 26722 Kuykendahl Road, 77375

• Station 8 – 11800 Gosling Road, 77381

Prepare now, so that you’ll be informed:

• Sign up for Emergency Alert Notifications and social media from The Woodlands Township at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ stayinformed.

• Sign up for Alerts from Montgomery County 9-1-1 by visiting www.mc911.org and register for Smart911. Go to the App Store or Google Play to sign up for the Montgomery County Community Preparedness App.

• Sign up for emergency notifications from Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Emergency Network (for Creekside Park) at www.911.org. Important updates are

also sent out by Harris County; visit www.readyharris.org and click Sign-up to receive Harris County Alerts.

• Sign up for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/CERT for more information. To register for CERT, contact The Community Preparedness Planner at the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management at 936-523-3915 or email morgan.lumbley@mctx.org.

• Join The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch and schedule your neighborhood presentation today by calling 281-210-3800.

A Get Ready – The Woodlands Emergency Preparedness presentation includes the basic steps to get prepared as outlined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Don’t Miss The Woodlands Township Emergency Preparedness Event

By Holly Steinke

“I have always said the true first responders are our citizens,” said The Woodlands Fire Department Chief Alan B. Benson.

“The better they can prepare and sustain, the quicker we can restore our community back to normal.”

Afterthe events of Hurricane Harvey, now is a good time to refresh your knowledge of the emergency resources available in the area and find out what’s new. The Woodlands Township Emergency Preparedness Event will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard.

Residents and employees of businesses in The Woodlands are invited to drop in anytime; there is no admission charge for this event, produced by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch.

Attendees will be able to visit booths during the event to learn from representatives and pick up free handouts. Planned presentations include Hurricane Predictions for 2018 from a National Weather Service forecaster, information about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch and electricity restoration information from the electric companies. Learn Hands-Only CPR from the Montgomery County Hospital District, sign up for Township notifications and Smart911 for official information and

view a short emergency preparedness video for the Houston region. A complete schedule of presentations will be posted as a press release to the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov prior to the event.

CenterPoint Energy is the Presenting Sponsor and will have a bucket truck onsite, as well as representatives from the electric and gas areas of their business. They will focus on hurricane preparedness and provide safety information and giveaways.

“At the start of every hurricane season, we’re reminded of the importance of advanced preparation. Just as CenterPoint Energy has an Emergency Operations Plan should a hurricane strike, we urge customers to have their own emergency plan as well,” said Pierce Prater, Service Consultant Supervisor for CenterPoint Energy. “No two storms are alike, which makes it difficult to forecast what the exact damage to our electric system could be and how long outages could last. Customers need to be prepared to be without power for two weeks or possibly longer, depending on the severity of the storm.”

Learn what steps that you and your family should take to be informed and prepared before, during and after a hurricane or any emergency. Find out how to plan ahead to make an emergency plan and prepare an emergency kit. Take action now to see how you can get involved in the community. Learn how you and your neighbors can work together. Whether you live or work here, find out where information will be available in The Woodlands during an emergency.

“An important piece of any emergency plan is working together and utilizing all of your resources,” says Township Director of Law Enforcement Marian Leck. “Don’t wait for an emergency to get to know your neighbor!”

Please join us for this fun and informative event. Emergency preparedness activities for the whole family will be available, so join us and Get Ready! For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800 or visit the website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch.

In addition to The Woodlands Fire Department and several departments from The Woodlands Township, invited participants and sponsors include:

Presenting Sponsor CenterPoint Energy

Gold Sponsor Entergy Texas, Inc.; Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office; Harris County Constable’s Office,

4;

County

Precinct

Montgomery

Constable’s Office, Precinct 3; Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management; Montgomery County Hospital District; Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management; National Weather Service; The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team; Montgomery County Public Health/Medical Reserve Corps; Montgomery County 9-1-1; Montgomery County Search and Rescue; Montgomery County Amateur Radio Emergency Services; Interfaith of The Woodlands; American Red Cross; H-E-B; Montgomery County Sheriff Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association; Boy Scouts of America –Tall Timbers; The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency; and more agencies are being added.

The Woodlands Township Emergency Preparedness Event will include activities and information for all ages.

Photo by Perry Frank

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Conroe

TOWN CENTER TROLLEYS ROLL OUT SERVICE TO HUGHES LANDING

By Kacie Gurney

Save yourself time and fuel – park once and hop on a Town Center Trolley today!

Enjoy these free, convenient rides around your favorite shopping destinations.

Onany given day in The Woodlands, the cheerful green Town Center Trolleys ferry shoppers to and from popular retail, entertainment and office locations. In April, The Woodlands Township expanded the Town Center Trolleys to include service to Hughes Landing for the first time. This means residents and visitors can now enjoy free, easy transport along the 4.1-mile route connecting The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, Town Center, The Woodlands Waterway and Hughes Landing.

Stops are conveniently located near retail and business locations, making travel seamless and efficient for residents and visitors when shopping, moving about during the work day or enjoying the many restaurants, concerts and activities in The Woodlands.

In addition to the added stops, riders can now track the Town Center Trolley in real time on a mobile device. The Ride Systems App can be downloaded for Town Center Trolley information including estimated arrival times, location, stop information, nearby attractions, service alerts and more. The app can be downloaded for free in the Apple (IOS) or Google Play (Android) store and installed on any smartphone. After installation, select “The Woodlands Township” from the menu to begin use.

Trolleys arrive approximately every 10 minutes during peak operating

hours around retail and office locations throughout the Town Center area. Trolleys operate seven days a week on the schedule below, excluding Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

MONDAY - THURSDAY: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

FRIDAY - SATURDAY: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

SUNDAY: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Each trolley can accommodate up to 35 passengers and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. Complementary paratransit is also offered for persons unable to utilize the regular Town Center Trolley service.

Photo by Kacie Gurney

The free Ride Systems app allows trolley riders to track arrival times and other convenient features.

Township” from the menu after installation.

message from the woodlands township board of directors

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3)

In Case You Missed It

• The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently recognized The Woodlands High School Lady Highlanders Swim Team for winning the Class 6A State Championship in Austin, making them back-to-back state champions.

• The Board of Directors also honored Dr. Don Stockton, pictured center, for his 32 years of service for Conroe ISD. Dr. Stockton was appointed Superintendent of Schools in Conroe ISD in August of 2003 and will retire this year.

• In addition, The Woodlands Township issued a proclamation to promote public awareness for bicycling and its health and environmental benefits, and proclaimed Friday, May 18, 2018, as Bike to Work Day; Saturday, May 19, 2018, as Bike The Woodlands Day and the month of May as Bike Month.

• The Woodlands Township honored and recognized the service and sacrifice of those law enforcement officers who protect our community and safeguard our democracy by proclaiming the week of May 13-19, 2018, as Police Week in The Woodlands, Texas.

• The Board also issued a proclamation in support of the Monarch Butterfly Pledge to help restore habitat for the monarch butterfly population.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recognized The Woodlands High School Lady Highlanders Swim Team.

The Board of Directors honored Dr. Don Stockton.

The Woodlands Township proclaims the week of May 13-19, 2018, as Police Week in The Woodlands, Texas.

2018 Pool SCHEDULE AND FEES

By Karl Shaw

The 2018

Splash Guide contains detailed information about each pool, schedules, fees and more!

COPIES OF THE 2018 SPLASH GUIDE AVAILABLE AT:

• The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

• The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

• The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

• The front desk of every pool

• www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ pools

School is out, and The Woodlands Township has the perfect way to cool off with more than a dozen pools and five spraygrounds open for the regular season beginning Friday, June 1, 2018. A fully renovated Bear Branch Pool is expected to re-open this summer, just as soon as construction is completed!

SEASON PASSES

Are you planning on visiting a pool more than once every few weeks? Savvy Woodlands residents know that a Season Pass is cheaper than daily admissions – and a hard deal to beat!

Resident Season Pass Fees:

0-2 Years = $6

3-64 Years = $40

Senior Ages 65 and up = $15

Non-Resident Season Pass Fees:

0-2 Years = $30

3 Years and up = $120

Dates To Remember:

Season Passholders get FREE admission to the following events!

• Dive-In Movie #1, “Moana”, at Wendtwoods Pool on June 9

• Dive-In Movie #2, “Leap”, at the NEW Bear Branch Pool on July 14

• Second Annual Season Passholder Party at Rob Fleming Aquatic Center on Monday, July 23

Season Passes are available for purchase and renewal today! Buy season passes for your whole family early and avoid waiting in line at the pools when you’re ready to take a dip. Purchasing or renewing your pass is easy, and can be done one of four ways:

1. Call us at 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950.

2. Visit us at The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

3. Go online to www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools and follow the instructions.

4. Go to any pool during operating hours and complete a form on the spot (passes mailed out later).

DAILY ADMISSION AND PUNCH CARDS

Not sure you’re ready to commit to a season pass? We’ve got you covered. Daily admission is offered as well, alongside punch cards for you or your guests.

Daily Admission:

• Any Village Pool: $6

• Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, below 48 inches tall = $8

• Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, above 48 inches tall = $10

• Punch Cards (good for six visits, valid 2018 season only):

• Residents Only for Village Pools = $30

• Resident Punch Card for Rob Fleming = $40

• Non-Resident Punch Card for Rob Fleming = $55

Please keep in mind that the Township requires an admission fee to each facility regardless of a person’s intention to swim. With their attention dedicated towards keeping everyone safe, staff simply cannot police non-swimmers on a case-by-case basis; all entrants will be required to pay for entry in some form listed above. This policy is posted at each location, and lifeguards cannot waive Township fees.

HOLIDAYS

Independence Day, July 4, 2018

SPLASH DAY! ………10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Labor Day,

September 3, 2018 Noon to 6 p.m.

Only the postseason pools will reopen for Labor Day.

REGULAR SEASON

June 1 to August 14, 2018

Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday .......................... 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Alden Bridge, *Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Falconwing, Harper’s Landing, Shadowbend, Ridgewood, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Sawmill, **Wendtwoods and Windvale

*Bear Branch Pool will open during the 2018 regular season as soon as construction on the new facility is completed.

**Wendtwoods Pool will remain open during regular season hours through Monday, August 20, 2018, to follow the Tomball ISD Academic Calendar.

Monday to Saturday Noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday .......................... 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Creekwood, Forestgate and Lakeside

CLOSED DAYS

During the Regular Season, each pool is closed for one day per week for

Mondays: Alden Bridge, Forestgate and Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

Tuesdays: Ridgewood, Sawmill and Windvale

Wednesdays: Bear Branch, Falconwing and Wendtwoods (Open Wednesday, July 4, 2018; Closed Thursday, July 5, 2018)

Thursdays: Cranebrook, Creekwood and Harper’s Landing

Fridays: Lakeside and Shadowbend

POSTSEASON (WEEKDAYS)

August 16 to 31, 2018

Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri 1 to 6 p.m.

Wednesdays ............................... Closed Bear Branch Pool Only

POSTSEASON (WEEKENDS)

August 18 to September 9, 2018

Saturday ........................ Noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Alden Bridge, Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Forestgate, Harper’s Landing, Ridgewood,

Learn to Swim with The Woodlands Township

By Karl Shaw

The Woodlands Township offers a wide range of swim lessons for all ages and abilities throughout the 2018 summer season, and you can do it all at your neighborhood pool! Enrollment for Session 2 through Session 5 is open now!

• Session 2, from June 18 to June 28

• Session 3, from July 2 to July 12 (No classes held on July 4)

• Session 4, from July 16 to July 26

• Session 5, from July 30 to August 9

The Township hires and trains approximately 40 Water Safety Instructors who complete a special certification process during which they must pass extensive background checks and attend a 42-hour course, including in-the-water training at Falconwing Pool during pre-season weekday hours.

Group swim lessons are offered at Alden Bridge, Creekwood, Falconwing,

Rob Fleming and Sawmill, from 8 a.m. to noon and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The cost for residents is $65 per two-week session, with seven 30-minute lessons included.

Private swim lessons are offered at Alden Bridge, Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Creekwood, Falconwing, Harper’s Landing, Lakeside, Rob Fleming, Sawmill and Wendtwoods, from noon to 6 p.m. The cost for residents is $30 for an individual 30-minute session, $70 for three or $160 for eight lessons. Private swim lessons are completed at the student’s pace, which means you can schedule private lessons for as many as four per week or as little as once per week – and take time off for vacations.

For full class listings and course details, please check out the 2018 Summer Action Guide (included in the May issue of this magazine and online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide).

For more information about these and other Aquatic Programs offered by The Woodlands Township, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools, or visit either The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

Program Levels:

ADULTS

• Adult (18+)

• Lessons are available through our most experienced and discreet instructors. We offer only private 1-on-1 lessons for adults unless adults in a single family want to learn together.

EARLY INTRODUCTIONS

• Swim With Me (6 months to 2 ½ years)

Parents are in the water with their children for comfort.

• Toddler Transition (2 to 3 ½ years)

Help your child gain water independence and learn new skills.

• Preschool (2 ½ to 5 years)

Learning basic skills in the water without a parent at their side.

ELEMENTARY WATER SKILLS

• Level 1 –Introduction to Water Skills (3 to 7 years)

Beginners class for slightly older students

• Level 2 –Fundamental Water Skills (4 to 8 years)

Intermediate skills for staying safe in the water

www.teethforkidz.com

• Level 3 –Stroke Development (5 to 10 years)

Learning basic strokes and becoming independent

ADVANCED STROKE IMPROVEMENTS

• Advanced 1 to Advanced 3 –Stroke Improvement (5 to 12 years)

Increase endurance by swimming familiar strokes (free, elementary back); build on the scissor kick and dolphin kick by adding arms; learning back and breast strokes; learning the basics of flip-turning at the wall.

Make water safety a top priority this summer by registering for swim lessons with The Woodlands Township.

June 2018

Saturday, June 2

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Free Pool Day Shadowbend Pool

4991 Lake Woodlands Drive 1 to 4 p.m.

281-210-3889

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, June 5

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, June 6

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

Thursday, June 7

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-5808

Saturday, June 9

The Woodlands Farmers Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

The Woodland Township

Emergency Preparedness Event

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-3884

Dive-In Movie

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, June 10

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Free Pool Day

Sawmill Pool

2200 Millpark Drive

12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

281-210-3883

Tuesday, June 12

AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers CPR Class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 IH-45 South 6 to 10 p.m. 281-210-5820

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, June 14

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3886

Saturday, June 16

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)

www.grogansmillvillage.com

AHA Heartsaver CPR AED Class

Pedal the Pathways with Mobike

Featuring “Moana”

Wendtwoods Pool

8950 Creekside Green Drive

Doors open at 8:15 p.m.

$5 per person over 3 years of age.

Season pass holders are admitted free.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 IH-45 South 9 a.m. to noon

281-281-5820

The Woodlands Township has launched an exciting partnership with Mobike, the world’s premier bike-sharing platform. Mobike offers a free app for users, which is available for download in the Apple (IOS) or Google Play (Android) store. Mobikes may be pedaled as far as you like within The Woodlands, but must be returned and parked in Town Center at the end of use.

Photo by Adriana McGee

Panther Creek Village Association

Flag Day Picnic

Ridgewood Park

4192 Interfaith Way

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

281-210-3886

AHA Heartsaver First Aid Class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

281-281-5820

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, June 18

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 to 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, June 20

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau

Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-363-2447

Thursday, June 21

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, June 23

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Public Safety Open House

Station 8

11800 Gosling Road

10 a.m. to noon

281-210-5808

Creekside Park Village

Free Pool Day

Wendtwoods Pool

8950 Creekside Green Drive

Noon to 3 p.m.

281-210-3889

Public Safety Open House

Station 5

10100 Branch Crossing Drive

2 to 4 p.m.

281-210-5808

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, June 26

AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers CPR Class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

6 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, June 27

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

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

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Planning and Public Input Session

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

281-210-3800

Saturday, June 30

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

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

Plan Your Summer Fun with the Action Guide

Summer

is here at last! Find out everything that The Woodlands Township has to offer by checking out the Summer 2018 Action Guide. The Action Guide is now available for download online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide, so residents can schedule their summer fun.

The Action Guide features activities and learning opportunities for all ages. Summer camps, swim lessons, tennis, kayaking, paddle boarding, fitness, races and special events are just some of the programs listed in the Action Guide. Registration is open now! Register for all programs by calling or visiting one of the recreation centers listed below.

Residents can also register online at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/signupforfun.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389 phone: 281-516-7348

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381 phone: 281-210-3950

Programs fill up fast, so don’t delay –sign up for summer fun today! Make your summer plans now with The Woodlands Township Summer 2018 Action Guide!

Alden Bridge

Does your business want to reach Alden Bridge residents? We’re seeking sponsors for our scholarship program! If your company would like to participate, we’ll publicize your business on our website and active Facebook page, as well as in our monthly electronic newsletter that reaches about 1,000 Alden Bridge households. Your donation will go into our scholarship fund, which awards village-resident scholars. We could even name a scholarship for you. Please reach out to us at info@aldenbridge.org.

Our June village association meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12, at the Township town hall, 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 website and Facebook page for updates.

We’re extremely proud to announce the winners of our $1,000 scholarships for 2018! Please congratulate Alexy Skoutnev and Tatum Taylor, both outstanding in terms of scholarship and community involvement. Our scholarship selection process is more difficult every year because there are so many deserving and well-qualified applicants in our village. Thanks to all who submitted applications – and best wishes to all Alden Bridge students graduating this year!

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program is in full swing. Please look around the village and send your nominations for best front yard in Alden Bridge to info@aldenbridge.org no later than Friday, June 23, and we’ll award on July 1. Nominate your neighbors (or yourself)! Come on, you know you’ve seen some beautiful front yards in our village.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

We have just a few tickets left for our annual Alden Bridge trip to Minute Maid Park for the Astros game. The game will begin at 6:10 p.m. on Saturday, August 11, and the Astros are playing the Seattle Mariners that evening. Tickets are $30 each and the price includes round trip transportation by motor coach from our village center. Contact us at info@aldenbridge.org to see if any tickets remain. We always have a great turnout and a great time!

Join the subscription list for our electronic newsletter! It’s distributed monthly to nearly one thousand households. To subscribe, please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org. This information will not be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village. Between newsletters, please check our website (www.aldenbridge.org) or like our very active Facebook page for the very latest information.

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

Do you love a parade? More specifically, do you love The Woodlands Fourth of July Parade? We are only a month away from the 2018 event. If you want to be a part of the parade this year, sign up to walk with other Cochran’s Crossing residents.

To sign up, contact Gary Conwell at 281-387-6986 or gconwell1@gmail.com. Let the Cochran’s Crossing parade committee know if you have a special

car you would like to drive in the parade or if you are planning to walk the route. When the staging locations are identified for Cochran’s Crossing, we will pass it on to you, along with the time to be at the starting point. The parade kicks off from The Woodlands United Methodist Church parking lot.

On June 2, we welcome summer with a free pool party at Shadowbend Park with a wide range of activities. Thank you to all of our sponsors. We’ve talked before about the upcoming trip to the Astros game, so here are some more details. Cochran’s Crossing will attend the game on Saturday, August 11, when Seattle comes to town. Although Seattle is supposed to have a decent team, odds favor the Astros. World Champions can charge a little more, and the cost of the transportation and game this year is $50.

Updates on various aspects affecting residents in The Woodlands and especially those in Cochran’s Crossing are part of the monthly village meetings. There have been various modifications to the Bear Branch project since it was originally announced. After a presentation about the The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department by Steve Perry in March, the board invited Chris Nunes, Township parks and recreation director, to the April meeting for an update on the Bear Branch recreation area construction.

Check out the Cochran’s Crossing website, www.cochranscrossing.com, newsletter and Facebook for more information. Remember, the village association board meetings are open to all residents who are interested in community activities. They are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

Sign up to participate in the Fourth of July parade alongside your fellow Cochran’s Crossing residents!

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

College Park

An estimated 130 residents of Grogan’s Forest were treated to ice cream during our annual Sundae in the Park. Board members were on hand to greet residents, and our Township Woodlands Watch Coordinator Peggy Krysiak was there to speak to residents about the Watch program. The fire department arrived with a hands-on opportunity for children to get up close to the fire truck. Children satisfied their curiosity with an opportunity to sit in the back seat of Officer Coriescu’s police vehicle.

Have you been to The Woodlands Flea Market yet? Flea Markets give our residents the opportunity to sell used items since garage sales are prohibited by our covenants. They are held in the parking garage on Six Pines. Board members from the village associations and students from the high schools provide volunteer assistance with parking and helping to manage the event. Sellers and plenty of buyers came out despite the rainy cold weather in April. For updates and to learn more, the website is www.woodlandsfleamarket.org.

We wanted to give a nod to Old Navy employees for providing manpower at the annual Earth Day GreenUp in April. Thank you for supporting the community!

Join us on July 4 as we will once again host a viewing tent for the Fourth of July parade for our neighbors from College Park. If you live in the villages of Windsor Hills, Grogan’s Forest or Harper’s Landing, please look for us at the corner of Lake Woodlands and Grogan’s Mill. Bring your own chair. We provide some shade and bottled water!

Continue to save your old CDs to be collected in November at the annual America Recycles event. The Village

Challenge is on and the villages that recycle the most CDs and CD cases will be awarded cash prizes. This money is used toward our scholarship program. You can find more details at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

We welcomed our newest board member, Kevin Pollock, at the April meeting. Kevin lives in Harper’s Landing. We still have a couple of board positions available if you are looking for an opportunity to serve your community and become more involved. Please visit our website at www.villageofcollegepark.com for information, news and a list of upcoming events. Sign up online for the College Park Newsletter.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Creekside Park

Greetings, Creekside Park Village Residents! Summer is here and that can only mean one thing: it is time for the Creekside Park Village Association’s annual Pool Party! Mark your calendar for June 23, between the hours of noon to 3 p.m., for a free, fun day at Wendtwoods Pool, located in Timarron at 8950 Creekside Green Dr. There will be kids’ activities, music and swimming (or just floating in the lazy river). We look forward to seeing you there!

All villages of The Woodlands are partially funded by The Woodlands Township for administrative and insurance needs. Each village has its own programs, many of which are education programs. Creekside Park donates its profits to all of the area school Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs). In turn, the PTOs identify a need in their respective schools and utilize the funds awarded to supplement

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MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

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

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

CREEKSIDE PARK www.creeksideparkvillage.com

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

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

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

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

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

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

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

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

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

Fireworks Prohibited in The Woodlands Neighborhoods

The Woodlands Township Fire Department reminds all residents that The Woodlands Covenants strictly prohibit the sale or use of home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands neighborhoods. The Woodlands is situated in a beautiful forest, and with dry weather conditions and so many trees, one errant spark could severely damage our hometown. Why put your own property and safety, or that of your friends and neighbors at risk?

Instead, please join the celebration and enjoy The Woodlands Fourth of July Red, Hot and Blue Festival and Fireworks Spectacular at five locations throughout The Woodlands. You will not be disappointed!

Please see more information about the Fourth of July in The Woodlands on page 22.

the cost of the need. With this type of donation, the money we raise and donate impacts every student in the village and supports their journey throughout their school years here in Creekside Park.

At the April meeting, Creekside Park issued the final donation check of 2017 to the Creekside Park Jr. High PTO, in the amount of $1,000. The village association board issued the standard $750 to all four area school PTO groups; in addition, we are proud to announce all of the schools earned the additional $250 for their volunteer efforts at village and Township events. We are proud to be part of a village that works closely with the schools to promote volunteerism by serving the wonderful community where we live. Our Education Committee is already working on new challenges and opportunities for the schools to earn these awards again for the upcoming 2018 year.

Remember to look for updates and events happening in Creekside Park and The Woodlands on our Facebook page or on our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com. We look forward to seeing you at the next village association meeting, which is open to all residents and held at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park on the first Tuesday of the month!

Submitted by Lisa Purtell

Grogan’s Mill

Splash around on Sunday, June 10, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the village association’s popular annual Splash Day Event. There will be plenty of food, drink, games and lots of water at Sawmill Park.

Yard of the Month is in full swing. If you know of someone (don’t be bashful about nominating yourself) who should earn Yard of the Month, please contact any Grogan’s Mill director.

The Woodlands Township (Interfaith) reports that there are 6,251 homes and 15,295 residents in Grogan’s Mill, out of 42,283 homes and 117,530 residents in The Woodlands.

Grogan’s Mill hosted a lively Municipal Utility District (MUD) candidate forum in April. Thanks to all the candidates who participated, sharing why they would make good MUD directors. Thanks to Ned Chapman for running a tight and timely schedule and all the residents who came to listen.

With warm weather now the norm, there are more fresh vegetables and other goodies at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon. Grab a friend and shop our 30+ vendors. 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/GrogansMillVillageAssociation. You can sign up for our weekly email blast on either site. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to the community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Indian Springs

The most exciting time of the year for the Indian Springs Village Association is when we award $1,000 scholarships to deserving graduating seniors. One essential purpose of the village association is to raise funds to honor those students who have demonstrated an immense dedication to community service and citizenship.

For 2018, we received many incredible applications and were reminded of the intelligence, persistence and kindness our students possess. The scholarship committee, like most years, had a difficult time selecting our winners. Indian Springs congratulates Juliana Esparza, Alison Eaton, Megan Mize and Jacob Teall.

Juliana Esparza, from Frassati Catholic High School, founded Live It Out, which connects high school students with at-risk teens to ensure they discover their full potential and finish high school. She intends to major in Civil Engineering as well as expand Live It Out nationally and eventually internationally.

Alison Eaton, from The Woodlands High School, raised money to fight breast cancer through Caroling for a Cure and helped rebuild communities and homes impacted by natural disasters in New Orleans and Colorado. To continue her love of music and the community, she intends to become a choir director in a Texas public school.

Donations of $1,000 were made in April to each of the four schools in our village: Hailey and Lamar Elementary, Wilkerson Intermediate and Knox Junior High.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Marie Brannen

Megan Mize, from The Woodlands High School, is an extremely active member of the National Charity League and a three-time winner of the Presidential Volunteer Service Award. Among the numerous service activities, she enjoyed running children’s dance camps and creating bags for breast cancer patients at MD Anderson. Megan intends to major in Biomedical Science and become a pediatrician.

Pictured above are Marie Brannen, Grogan’s Mill president; Jennifer Daw, principal of Wilkerson Intermediate; Joe Daw, principal of Knox Junior High; Jody Ronzio, Grogan’s Mill director; Tracy Horne, principal of Hailey Elementary; and Mary J. Kirbo, principal of Lamar Elementary.

Jacob Teall, from The Woodlands High School, is the TWHS Interact President and led numerous fundraisers for local charities as well as the Commonwealth of Dominica, which was devastated by Hurricane Maria. With goals of starting and running a techstartup or theatre company, he intends to major in Business and Economics.

Indian Springs would like to thank all the applicants and their parents for being such an integral part of what makes our village so special.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

We hope you got to enjoy some of the 2018 events in Panther Creek so far, including the Spring Flea Market, the fishing tournament at Creekwood Park and the successful National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Summer is here and there are so many more events to enjoy.

Just around the corner is our annual Flag Day/Panther Creek Picnic on Saturday, June 16. Every year, more residents turn out for this free family-style outing at Ridgewood Park, 4192 Interfaith Way. Free hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks and treats will be provided. Bring the kids and their swimsuits as the pool will be open to all. After all the swimming and eating, a wondrous array of icy flavors will be served at the snow cone truck. A brief American flag program and flag information will be presented.

Bring any old flags that need to be respectfully retired. Be prepared for a surprise visitor or two that the kids will want pictures with.

With baseball season well underway, join with your Panther Creek neighbors as we hop on custom coaches to take us down to a good oldfashioned baseball outing in Houston. Join with your neighbors as we watch our World Champion Astros play. Since we expect a victory, there will be a fireworks show afterwards, weather permitting. If you haven’t taken the kids to a big league baseball game yet, this is the year. Call your Panther Creek area rep. They are listed on our website below. Your fare includes the custom coach transportation to and from the ballpark and admission to the game. Panther Creek residents may call Kim at 281-292-3477 to reserve tickets –they go fast! Date is September 15.

Remember to be on the lookout for the Panther Creek Panther in The Woodlands Fourth of July parade.

Stay informed by visiting www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org where you can also sign up for our newsletter. Come visit your association board meeting the second Thursday of each month. We are your forum for information and access to the many services and authorities in The Woodlands.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

The Sterling Ridge Village Association welcomed representatives from three local elementary schools to its March board meeting. After informative presentations, the board voted to donate a total of $7,500 to the schools. Coulson Tough Elementary School, Deretchin Elementary School and Cedric C. Smith Elementary School were each awarded $2,500 by the Sterling Ridge Village Association.

Coulson Tough:

Thanked the village association and passed out pictures from the mural we donated toward in 2017. They requested assistance purchasing a 3D printer. This will allow the ability to create hands and arms for those in need of an upper limb assistive device. 3D printing will also allow the students to:

• Conceptualize and visualize design through stages of development

• Learn problem solving and critical thinking

• Go beyond the Wow factor

• Experience real world problems

Cedric C. Smith Elementary:

Thanked the village association for the SMART boards, shade awnings and Chromebooks from prior years. They requested more Chromebooks to replace outdated models, and demonstrated the students using the ones they have currently. Students are able to save their own profile and learn at their own level.

Deretchin Elementary:

Thanked the village association for the standing desks that we assisted with last year. They have led to a lot of engagement and to more collaboration. This year, they requested reading material to assist in further building their library. The packet comes in kits with six books in each session, with a total of 36 books in the packet. These packets come at all levels of learning.

We rely on sponsorships from businesses for events and to provide grants to the elementary schools serving Sterling Ridge. We need your help, so that we can help even more students of Sterling Ridge. For more information about 2018 Sponsorships or to sponsor either of our annual events, the Sterling Ridge Fishing Derby or the Sterling Ridge BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival, please email Ms. K. Shaw at klynda@gmail.com.

Submitted by Amy Wilkinson

The Village of Indian Springs celebrates its talented scholarship winners.

FOURTH OF JULY

Fourth of July is a special time in The Woodlands and features a number of family-friendly events and activities. The 2018 celebration will be one to remember, so keep our handy guide nearby to plan your Independence Day fun!

Don’t miss the many fireworks shows taking place on the Fourth of July in The Woodlands. Displays are located at multiple launch locations to ensure great views for everyone.

Photo by Derrick Bryant

JULY 3, 2018

Star-Spangled Salute at The Pavilion

Ignite your patriotic spirit at the annual Star-Spangled Salute free concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion which features the Houston Symphony performing a selection of patriotic favorites.

JULY 4, 2018

Fourth of July Parade

Put on your red, white and blue and get a prime viewing spot for the exciting South County Fourth of July Parade. The 1.3-mile parade around The Woodlands features marching bands, fire engines, clowns, floats and more!

NOTE: Roads will be closed during the parade; please view the route map for details.

Splash Day

Cool off at one of the Township’s community pools and enjoy activities from noon to 4 p.m. and free refreshments while supplies last. The lifeguards will select a special theme for each pool! All community pools will be free to residents from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Presented by

21st Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Celebrate freedom in The Woodlands with great food, live entertainment, children’s activities and family fun at multiple locations around The Woodlands! The event culminates with one of the largest fireworks displays in the Greater Houston area.

Enjoy a variety of activities throughout The Woodlands at the below locations! All sites will feature live music beginning at 6 p.m. with

bands playing until the Fireworks Extravaganza at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Presented by

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza sponsored by

TOWN GREEN PARK

Town Green Park Freedom StageUptown Drive (Variety)

Town Green Park Independence StageThe Pictures Band (Variety)

Festival activities include strolling entertainers, face painters, balloon artists, inflatables, entertainment on two stages, a variety of food vendors, and a Kids’ Zone featuring crafts and other family-fun games. Participants must have a wristband to enter the inflatable activities at this location. Wristbands are $10 each and good for unlimited access of the inflatables for the duration of the event. Excludes mechanical bull.

WATERWAY SQUARE

Willow Creek Junction (Country)

Activities include face painting, balloon artist, concessions and live music. Fourth of July Parade Awards at 7 p.m.

NORTHSHORE PARK

Klockwork Band (R&B/Motown/Funk/Jazz)

Activities include face painting, concessions and live music.

PLEASE NOTE: Northshore Park will be closed to vehicular traffic at 11:30 p.m. on July 3, 2018, and reopen at 5:30 a.m. on July 5, 2018. Residents should be advised that the majority of the docks at Northshore Park will be unavailable June 30 through July 5, 2018. Northshore Park will be closed from 6 to 9 a.m. on July 2, 2018 to accommodate further setup.

ROB FLEMING PARK

Keeton Coffman (Indie)

Activities include face painting, concessions and live music.

HUGHES LANDING

Phatso (Variety)

Fireworks Launch Locations

The 18-minute Fireworks Extravaganza will take place at approximately 9:30 p.m. The primary fireworks display will be located in Lake Woodlands adjacent to Northshore Park, with secondary close-proximity (special effects) displays at Waterway Square and Town Green Park. The 2018 Fireworks Extravaganza will also feature a fireworks display near Rob Fleming Park in the Village of Creekside Park. To ensure spectators have the best fireworks visibility possible, fireworks teaser shots will be fired from all launch locations at 9, 9:10 and 9:20 p.m.

Celebrate Public Safety Partnerships and Attend an Open House at The Woodlands Fire Department

By Marian Montgomery Leck

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites you to stop, drop and roll into your local fire station. You will learn more about upcoming National Night Out events, get an up-close look at fire apparatus, rescue units and the fire station where it all happens. Children can meet

our firefighters and learn about fire safety. Also, if you ride your bicycle to the event, The Woodlands Fire Department will be providing bike registration. Bike registration assists law enforcement in identifying the owner when bicycles are found.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Unit or Harris

County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4, will join in the fun as well. Kids of all ages can visit with deputies and see a patrol vehicle. Program specialists from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch will also be there to share information about bringing the Neighborhood Watch program to your neighborhood. Program specialists will also share ways for residents to educate

and promote crime prevention right in their own neighborhoods by participating in National Night Out.

Mark your calendars, bring your camera and don’t miss the fun!

For more information about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program and National Night Out, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/neighborhoodwatch.

Volunteers Keep The Woodlands Clean, Green and Beautiful

By Zoe Killian

Together, we all made a difference in our community on March 24, 2018, at The Woodlands Township’s Earth Day GreenUp event! This community stewardship project is an extension of The Great American Cleanup sponsored by Keep America Beautiful.

GreenUp Replay:

• 2,988 volunteer hours

• 40 volunteer organizations were represented

• 7,960 pounds of trash removed; volume equivalent of 92 trash carts!

• 3 pounds of cigarette butts recycled to TerraCycle

A special thank you to our sponsors!

The Woodlands Township

Waste Management

Keep America Beautiful

Berkeley Services

H-E-B

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency

The Woodlands Development Company | Howard Hughes

Papa John’s Pizza

Nature’s Way Resources

The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

Save the date: Saturday, March 23, 2019, for the ninth annual Earth Day GreenUp!

For more information on community stewardship programs such as Adopt-aHabitat, Adopt-a-Path, cleanup events or participation in next year’s GreenUp, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment or call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

Look Out for Litter – Clean up for a free ice cream cone!

Pledge to pick up three pieces of litter per day over any three weeks between June 15 and August 15. Maintain a litter log to receive a summer treat! Contact the Township’s Environmental Services Department for more information and to register at 281-210-3800.

Make it a Summer of Fun!

VOLUNTEER WITH THE TOWNSHIP’S ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

With school out for the summer, the days may seem endless. So why not get your child out of the house with a fun volunteer activity that benefits our local community? The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department has a wonderful variety of options to get outside, dig in the dirt and make parks and pathways more beautiful. Enjoy the fresh air while cleaning up pathways, clearing debris from community gardens, pruning plants, mulching plant beds and much more.

Adopt-A-Habitat

Volunteer to help maintain the conservation gardens at Wendtwoods Park. Wendtwoods Park is one of more than 130 parks in The Woodlands. In addition to soccer fields, playgrounds and a splash pad, the park also showcases a beautiful conservation garden. With its native species and

water-conserving irrigation system, the gardens are not only educational, but also beneficial.

Join us to volunteer; you can help in a variety of ways! Weed, maintain the landscape, clean up the immediate area and replant as needed. Bring your tools and your love of gardening to help us with this important conservation effort.

How to Join: To keep it easy, the volunteer groups meet the second and fourth Monday of every month from 8 to 10 a.m. Mark your calendars to join us next month and email Terrilyn MacArthur, program manager, at tmacarthur@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov to sign up.

Adopt-A-Path

Anyone interested in keeping our community clean and green is welcome to join the Adopt-a-Path program. Businesses, neighborhood and school

By Kacey Wilkins

groups, and scout troops all help keep The Woodlands beautiful.

How to Join:

• Pick a favorite path or park and commit to clean-up and log your activity at least four times a year.

• Register with the Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

• After you log your first activity, a sign will be installed that recognizes your group.

All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and all volunteers must register with the Township. For more information on community stewardship programs such as Adopt-a-Habitat, Adopt-a-Path, cleanup events, or event support, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment or call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

Gather together with a group and help to clean the pathways around your neighborhood.

Enjoy the outdoors while you help maintain the conservation gardens in Wendtwoods Park.

SCHOOL IS OUT, AND MOSQUITOES ARE, TOO!

By Megan McNairn

Warmweather and kids on summer vacation mean a lot more time spent outside. As you hike, bike and play your days away, here are three things to know about mosquitoes so you can enjoy the outdoors.

1. Mosquitoes love dark colors like black, navy and brown!

Not only are dark colors easier for them to see, but they retain more heat, which also attracts mosquitoes.

Fight the Bite Tip : Wear long pants and loose sleeves in light colors. As a bonus, you’ll stay cooler, too. Choose fabrics with a tight weave that can resist mosquitoes from biting through the fabric.

2. Mosquitoes are weak fliers.

These bugs only fly about one mile per hour and rely on plumes of carbon dioxide to locate potential blood meal sources like humans and pets.

Fight the Bite Tip : Use an oscillating floor fan to keep air moving across porches and decks – mosquitoes can’t overcome the current and have a hard time zeroing in on the carbon dioxide we exhale. While ceiling fans are nice, they don’t provide the same mosquito-fighting air current.

3. Mosquitoes are confused by insect repellents.

The active ingredient in repellent interrupts how the mosquito-attracting chemicals on your body are sensed by the insect’s antennae, effectively jamming the signal.

Fight the Bite Tip : Every repellent must state the active ingredient on the front of the package or bottle. Use a repellent with one of the four active ingredients recommended by the Centers for Disease Control: Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (PMD), Picaridin,

IR3535 or DEET. Fight the bite this summer by investing in mosquito repellent and applying it regularly when outdoors.

For more Fight the Bite tips, please visit The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department Mosquito Control Page at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ MosquitoInfo.

Request for Interest for a New and Innovative Water Vessel Operation on The Woodlands Waterway

A Message from Visit The Woodlands

The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), which markets under the name of Visit The Woodlands, is seeking a new and innovative boat service on its signature feature – The Woodlands Waterway.

Six Waterway Cruisers had been in operation on The Woodlands Waterway in The Woodlands, Texas for the past 15 years until the excessive amount of rain from Hurricane Harvey shut down the operations. The Woodlands CVB officials have declined to put additional monies into the 15-year old boats, and would rather search for a new and innovative approach to providing transportation by water for the public, combined with catering and event opportunities. The Waterway Cruisers have operated out of a marina located at the corner of Lake Robbins Drive and the southbound feeder road of Interstate I-45 in The Woodlands Texas, which is owned by Brazos Transit District.

Visit The Woodlands is seeking creative and innovation in the boat service.

Located just 30 minutes north of Houston, Texas and minutes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport, The Woodlands, Texas is a destination for corporate and convention meetings, business travel, leisure travel and extraordinary events and activities.

At the heart of its “downtown” area is The Woodlands Waterway, a 1.4-milelong transportation corridor that features rubber-wheel trolleys, bike and running paths and a canal for boats.

Visitors to The Woodlands and residents of the community enjoy more than 11 million square feet of worldclass shopping, dining and entertainment

options with much of this attached to The Woodlands Waterway. Photos of The Woodlands Waterway have been included in this Request for Interest. In addition, The Woodlands has more than 200 miles of hike-and-bike trails, 135 parks, and 115,000 residents and 2,000+ businesses.

The Woodlands Waterway is a centerpiece of the shopping district. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, which has a capacity of nearly 17,000, is consistently ranked in the Top 5 in the world in ticket sales for all the touring artists like Dave Matthews Band, Jimmy Buffett, Cher, Styx, Kiss and all the rising stars. The Woodlands Waterway is also the home to the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Texas which is the North American IRONMAN Championship. The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival consistently brings 20,000 attendees the second weekend in April. Most weekends in the spring, summer and fall have some type of music festival or event, either at Waterway Square or Town Green Park.

Boat service first began as a private operation by Water Taxi, Inc. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2004. For several years, The Woodlands Development Company owned and operated the boats until the company gifted them, free of charge, to The Woodlands CVB, the organization responsible to position The Woodlands as a regionally, nationally and internationally recognized destination for leisure, convention and business travel. The boats were operated until mid-2017, and after damage by 50+ inches of rain by Hurricane Harvey, the boat operation concluded after 15 years of service. The Waterway

Cruisers logged over 434,000 trips along The Woodlands Waterway.

The Woodlands Waterway is still very much in development mode, with numerous tracts of land yet to be developed for residential living, dining, corporate office, hospitality and entertainment. The Waterway has two sections (lower and upper) and only the upper section has featured boat service. Much of the development of The Woodlands Waterway will lead to Hughes Landing. Situated along Lake Woodlands, Hughes Landing is a 66-acre mixed-use development featuring a mixture of five Class A Office Buildings with future Class A space planned; One Lakes Edge, an upscale multifamily residence with a dog park; an all-suite, 205key Embassy Suites by Hilton for business and leisure travelers; retail including a Whole Foods Market®; and Restaurant Row including a variety of dining options. Hughes Landing also features water sports, pieces of art and an entertainment venue.

The Woodlands CVB believes with the current attraction of The Woodlands and future growth, a boat operation can be sustained, with general rides, catered events, unique events and creative programming. Additionally, there are many who believe a distinctive style of boat is needed for the next operation to launch.

Submissions for Response for Qualifications and Information must be received by July 31, 2018. Please send questions in email at info@visitthewoodlands.com to the attention of Sonia Guerrero, or review the Request for Qualifications and Information Valuation online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/bids.

LAWN CARE TIPS FOR JUNE

By Bob Dailey

MhaveSt. Augustine turf grass.

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It is, by far, the most shade tolerant of all the warm-season grasses. However, many residents notice their St. Augustine thinning under trees. Here’s the probable reason: when the area was sodded, the tree canopy above it was less dense. Therefore, even though it was planted in shade, it received more filtered sunlight. As the tree canopy grew denser, the grass received less filtered light.

The solution: Lightly prune the tree to allow more light to penetrate through the foliage. Keeping foot traffic to a minimum and setting the mower to its highest level will also help. If all these fail, try replacing the sod with a shade-loving groundcover such as Mondo grass, liriope, Asian jasmine, English ivy or ferns.

Lawn irrigation

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In southeast Texas, rains in June generally provide enough water for turf grass. St. Augustine needs only ½ -1 inch per week to stay healthy during the hottest part of the summer, and less if the weather is more moderate and humidity is higher. Don’t overwater. Overwatering can cause fungal infections. Check your irrigation controller and your sprinkler heads to make sure they are operating properly. Make sure you set it accurately to comply with the two-day-per-week Odd/Even Defined Irrigation Schedule.

There is still time to put in new sod or fill in some bare spots. The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency offers a variance from the Defined Irrigation Schedule to ensure new turf is adequately irrigated. However, be very careful that the area doesn’t become a swamp. Too much water is just as bad as too little. It’s also not too late to add compost or peat moss to yellowing patches of grass.

Establishing deep, dense lawns

Taller grass blades accomplish several things. First, they keep the ground cooler than the ambient temperature. They help hold in moisture…which means you need to water less. Weed seeds need sunlight to germinate. Taller grass blades shade the ground and discourage weed growth. Thus, don’t be afraid to set your mower height to the highest setting. Avoid scalping. Closely cutting St. Augustine or any other grass will shorten its life span and make them more vulnerable to insect damage and disease.

Fertilize

If you haven’t yet fertilized, you can do so now. Do not use “weed and feed” products. Instead, use a slow-release fertilizer with a 3-1-2, 4-1-2 or 6-2-4 ratio. These three numbers represent the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the fertilizer. Instead of bagging grass clippings, use a mulching lawn mower. The grass clippings are high in nutrients and will help fertilize your lawn.

Note: This article is provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency. Please visit www.wjpa.org for more information.

Cliff Roe Photography

Staying in touch with residents is of high importance, particularly during times of emergency or weather-related events. In addition to multiple social media accounts and the website, The Woodlands Township publishes a weekly email newsletter known as Talk of the Township. The newsletter includes timely information about Board meetings,

events for families and updates about services, programs and facilities offered by The Woodlands Township.

During times of emergency, the Talk of the Township email can be used to communicate updates from the Township. Throughout Hurricane Harvey, the newsletter was sent multiple times daily to alert residents regarding

By Kacie Gurney

rising water, evacuation/rescue efforts and shelter locations, along with myriad other updates. As we approach hurricane season, there has never been a better time to subscribe.

To sign up for Talk of the Township and receive weekly emails, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ notifyme and choose Talk of the Township.

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