June 2021

Township Seeking Fair Share of Federal COVID Funding

Are You Prepared for HURRICANE SEASON?

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP INCORPORATION 101

The Woodlands Designated MONARCH CHAMPION

Swim into Summer at the TOWNSHIP POOLS

Township Designated a Monarch Champion by National Wildlife Federation

The National Wildlife Federation has named The Woodlands Township as a Monarch Champion for its commitment to the environment, and specifically to the endangered monarch butterfly. The Woodlands Township is the 10th community in North America to receive this designation.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

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

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

Emergency 911

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

message from The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

Fully Vaccinated Persons May Resume Activities

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released new information in mid-May.

If you’ve been fully vaccinated:

• You can resume activities that you did prior to the pandemic.

• You can resume activities without wearing a mask or staying 6 feet apart, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.

• If you’ve been around someone who has COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others or get tested unless you have symptoms.

– However, if you live or work in a correctional or detention facility or a homeless shelter and are around someone who has COVID-19, you should still get tested, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Find out the latest information:

www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html#vaccinated

John Anthony Brown Treasurer, Position 3

Bruce Rieser Vice Chairman, Position 4

Gordy Bunch Chairman, Position 1

Jason J. Nelson Director, Position 2

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Secretary, Position 5

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Director, Position 6

Bob Milner Director, Position 7

Jeff Jones President and General Manager

CDC graphic

The Woodlands

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Woodlands Township, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to residents of The Woodlands The printing and distribution of The Woodlands Community Magazine are supported entirely by advertising revenue. Please patronize the advertisers whenever possible, and tell them you saw their ad in this magazine and appreciate their support.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Cheryl Kirsch Jim Callahan

Graphic Designers

Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editors

Perry Frank

Shelby Doerries

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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

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

www.championsprinting.com

Editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX, 77381, telephone 281-210-3800. Editorial deadlines are the 15th of every month, approximately six weeks in advance of publication. The editors reserve all rights to accept or reject any submissions and reserve all rights to edit for clarity and space. The Woodlands Community Magazine is the official information source of The Woodlands Township. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the activities of the Township and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the Township takes precedence over information submitted by any other source.

The Woodlands Community Magazine has earned three Communicator Awards of Distinction, the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators, a Merit Award from The Service Industry Advertising Awards and a Gold MarCom Award.

Township Resumes Future Governance Discussions

The Woodlands Township is resuming discussions of future governance options after a year delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Currently, The Woodlands Township operates as a “Special Purpose District” and has Regional Participation Agreements (RPAs) with the cities of Houston and Conroe which allow The Woodlands to operate independently before the two cities could initiate an option to annex The Woodlands.

Before then, however, the Township Board is engaging community dialogue on future governance options for The Woodlands including incorporation as a home-rule city.

BACKGROUND

With an official opening in 1974, The Woodlands was originally governed by community associations and, as a result, was established as an unincorporated area in Montgomery and Harris counties. However, after several evolutions of the original governance model, The Woodlands is now categorized as a “Special Purpose District” in the state of Texas. Under that designation, the Township remains unincorporated and relies on the county governments to provide some local government services but can leverage various tax revenues to offer enhanced service levels to its residents. However, the Township’s status as a special district with limited powers and duties presents some challenges as well.

Though the Township governance and administrative model has allowed it to offer municipal-type services, core service areas, such as law enforcement and transportation infrastructure maintenance, are delivered by county agencies, and water, wastewater, and stormwater management services are provided by multiple Municipal Utility

Districts throughout The Woodlands. While the Township has entered into contractual arrangements with some of those agencies to provide enhanced law enforcement services, the Township’s authority to direct those services is limited. The Township also lacks ordinance authority which limits its ability to address local issues. Woodlands residents, and their elected representatives on the Township Board of Directors, have no authority or control over rights-of-way, roadways, traffic signals, speed limits, law enforcement, or the ability to pass ordinances such as those related to a Senior tax freeze, right-of-way management, or a tree preservation ordinance, for example.

This lack of local control became evident when Montgomery County proposed to expand The Woodlands Parkway in 2015. A contingent of Township residents were opposed to this initiative but did not have direct recourse to affect the outcome, apart from general political engagement at the county level. In addition, when Hurricane Harvey struck the Houston area in 2017, homes and properties in The Woodlands were flooded, resulting in substantial property damage and community disruption. The event highlighted the Township’s lack of emergency management authority during moments of crisis. Instead, the Township was required to rely on the counties and the Township’s 11 Municipal Utility Districts (MUDS) to coordinate a local response. The absence of local control and authority on topics and events that directly impacted many Woodlands residents was concerning to Township leaders.

As such, the Board of Directors initiated a study process to assess the implications of incorporating as a home-rule city. That process was intended to objectively determine what new revenues would be available under incorporation and what new costs must be incurred to maintain or enhance all existing service levels. The Woodlands Township engaged a leading consulting group, The Novak Consulting Group, now part of Raftelis, to complete this assessment and develop a financial model that defined the cost and subsequent property tax implications of incorporation. Over the course of 18 months, The Novak Consulting Group analyzed the operating and financial implications of incorporation in each major service area.

MORE INFORMATION

The Woodlands Township has published the website of www. thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com that contains detailed assumptions associated with each of these revenue and expense items; the sub-studies that underlie those financial model assumptions are included as appendices. In addition, the report outlines the steps necessary to review and update the incorporation study financial model should a future Board of Directors choose to take up the issue of incorporation.

GOING FORWARD

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be holding public meetings in the next few months regarding future governance as well as publishing information on the website referenced above.

Township Seeking Fair Share of Federal COVID Funding

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors has expressed consistent disappointment throughout a yearlong struggle that its residents’ ‘hometown’ is not receiving an equitable share of COVID-related funding committed by the federal government for local jurisdictions to respond to the pandemic.

The Board of Directors has been taking proactive measures throughout the pandemic to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and businesses while addressing the longterm economic health of the community.

Because The Woodlands is considered a special purpose district and not a city, The Woodlands Township continues to face hurdles in accessing what some estimate is its $20-30 million share of over $500 billion in federal funding provided to all cities.

Local governments, including the Township, have seen dramatic losses of sales tax and hotel tax revenues throughout the pandemic – more than a 60% loss in some months. In response, the Township Board reduced expenses by $7 million.

Federal COVID relief legislation passed in 2020 provided over $150 billion in local government aid. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was intended to provide funds to quickly flow to local communities to address the pressing public health and safety

crisis that was developing from the spread of coronavirus.

CARES Act funding was distributed based on population. Large counties, like Harris and Montgomery counties, received a direct allocation of funds to share with local governments within their boundaries. All Texas counties allocated $55 per resident to its local cities per State of Texas guidelines. Montgomery County was the lone exception.

Harris County provided the Township $715,000 equivalent to $55 per resident in the Village of Creekside Park located in Harris County. Montgomery County provided the Township only $244,199 well below the $6.1 million the Township would have received at $55 per resident in Montgomery County.

Unfortunately, the Township may experience a similar fate with the additional federal assistance made available by the recently enacted American Rescue Plan Act, or ARP. The ARP legislation includes $350 billion for cities, counties and states.

Early indications from congressional funding estimates indicate that the

Township was again overlooked for funding. However, the United States Treasury is administering the ARP funds and has yet to release final allocations as it works to prepare final guidance for local communities on how to use the funds.

“These are federal tax dollars paid for by the residents of The Woodlands Township,” said Township Chairman Gordy Bunch. “The Woodlands Township has weathered a significant loss in sales tax and hotel tax collection due to the pandemic. The federal government made provisions for communities such as ours to receive a portion of the $500 billion to help in this time of need.”

In recent Township meetings, the Directors have called for an equitable share of funding. The Board of Directors recently advocated on behalf of residents with the U.S. Department of Treasury, as well as, with Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Township’s state elected officials and Montgomery County to be included in the final funding allocations.

Please note, at the time of this printing both CARES Act and ARP funding remain uncertain.

April 23, 2021

The Honorable Janet Yellen Secretary U S Department of Treasury

1500 Pennsylvania Ave , N W. Washington, D C 20220

Dear Secretary Yellen:

Via [Email]

On behalf of The Woodlands Township, I respectfully request that Treasury allocate funding to The Woodlands Township as a “nonentitlement unit of local government” as authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (“The Act”) The Act authorized $65 billion of direct aid to local governments to assist in recovery

The Act defines a nonentit lement unit of local government in 42 U S C 5302(a)(5) to include a “township ” Further, 42 U S C 5302(a)(5) grants the Secretary the authority to define a “city” as a town or township when meeting the following three criteria:

(i) possesses powers and performs functions comparable to these associated with municipalities,

(ii) is closely settled, and

(iii) contains within its boundaries no incorporated places as defined by the United States Bureau of the Census which have not entered into cooperation agreements with such town or township to undertake or to assist in the undertaking of essential community development and housing assistance activities

The Woodland Township meets all three criteria.

The Woodlands Township is a political subdivision, creat ed by the Texas Legislature and approved by The Woodlands voters in 2007 to consolidate the responsibilities of the Town Center Improvement District, residential community and business owners associations The Woodlands Township is the ‘hometown’ unit of local government for the 119,000 residents and nearly 2,200 businesses, including Fortune 500 companies, within its 28,000-acre boundaries In normal years, the Township has a tax base valuation of more than $20 5 billion

The Honorable Janet Yellen April 22, 2020

Page 2

The Township’s Board of Directors work responsibly to fulfill the governance needs of the community while promoting the Township’s economic development These elected officials levy property (ad valorem) taxes and impose and collect hotel and sales taxes In a non-pandemic year, the Board oversees a nearly $130 million budget Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the Township has prioritized the health and safety of our residents while continuing to provide services in a fiscally responsible manner During this time, however, the Township experienced a substantial reduction in revenue. A $4 million decline in sales tax revenues and a reduction of nearly $5 5 million in hotel occupancy taxes present financial challenges

The Township is responsible for emergency/disaster response and operates eight fire stations that provide full, uniformed ISO-rated fire services In addition, the Township contracts for enhanced law enforcement servic es The Woodlands Fire Department (TWFD) has served as the Township’s front-line response throughout the pandemic. Its 147 firefighters , of which 82 are also certified paramedics, have faithfully responded to the medical and emergency response needs of our community, while undertaking new safety protocols to protect both themselves and those whom they serve These heightened protocols, increased medical calls and acquisition of protective gear have added costs to department operations In addition, TWFD has dealt with increased overtime costs, staffing challenges due to quarantine and, unfortunately, firefighters who have contracted COVID-19

The Township also provides other city-type services The Township operates FTA-funded commuter bus services and ‘downtown’ area trolley services, provides trash pick-up and recycling services, land-use planning and neighborhood covenant enforcement The Township operates 14 swimming pools, two boathouses with kayak, paddleboard and swan boats, two recreation centers, 220 miles of hike and bike pathways, 43 sports fields, and 220 miles of streetscape in addition to an extensive list of other recreational facilities The Woodlands Township also fully funds The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau

We appreciate the work Treasury is doing to provide guidance and financial allocations under the directed timeline Township staff are available to provide any additional information that may b e helpful to Treasury in evaluating our request Please do no t hesitate to reach out

Sincerely,

Gordy Bunch Chairman

The Woodlands Township

Are You Prepared for Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season begins June 1, 2021. Please take a moment to follow these safety tips.

During and after a hurricane or other disaster you may not have access to electricity, Internet, cellular phone connections, pharmacies, water and ice, fuel, food or television. It is critical to assemble an Emergency Supply Kit ahead of time, including food, water and medicines. More information can be found at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/438/Hurricane-Prep-Checklist.

While you’re restocking your emergency supply kit, make sure you also have access to all of The Woodlands Township communication tools. During an emergency, the Township will utilize all methods available, including email, text, website updates, social media and local media outlets.

Select Your Communication Method

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

The Notify Me page of the Township website is where residents can sign up for alerts. Sign up for the weekly Talk of the Township eNewsletter, community-wide emergency alerts, press releases and transit alerts.

Follow The Woodlands Township on Social Media

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed

Follow the official Township Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for updates.

Other Emergency Resources and Partner Agencies

A full list of emergency resources is available at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency, along with updates from local agencies as events unfold. 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. In the event all communication efforts fail, you may go

to one of The Woodlands’ eight fire stations for the latest updates. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/firedepartment. Residents are encouraged to sign up for updates from their county in addition to The Woodlands Township updates:

• Sign up for AlertMCTX from Montgomery County 9-1-1 by visiting www.mc911.org. 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 for Alerts.

• Sign up for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ CERT for more information.

Staying informed during an emergency is an important step in helping to keep you and your family safe. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike — sign up for alerts, prepare your emergency kit and plan today.

National Flood Insurance Program

The Gulf Coast region is prone to flooding rains, and most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. To purchase flood insurance or to learn more, call your insurance company or insurance agent, the same person who sells your home or auto insurance. If you need help finding a provider, go to FloodSmart.gov/find or call FEMA’S National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at 877-336-2627. Be sure to plan ahead as there is typically a 30-day waiting period for an NFIP policy to go into effect.

The Woodlands Township offers 14 pools for residents and visitors to enjoy during the long summer days!

REGULAR SEASON

(May 27 - August 10, 2021)

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

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

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

*Wendtwoods Pool regular season weekday hours open Friday, May 28, through Friday, August 13, 2021.

Creekwood, Forestgate, Lakeside and Shadowbend

Monday to Saturday: noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

All Pools

Memorial Day, May 31: Regular Hours

Fourth of July: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Please note, all pools have a weekly closure day for training and maintenance during the Regular Season.

MONDAY

Alden Bridge, Forestgate, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

TUESDAY

Ridgewood, Sawmill, Windvale

WEDNESDAY

Bear Branch, Falconwing, Wendtwoods

THURSDAY

Cranebrook, Creekwood, Harper’s Landing

FRIDAY

Lakeside, Shadowbend

AT THE TOWNSHIP POOLS Swim into Summer

Summer weather has arrived and season passes for The Woodlands Township pools are available for purchase now! Get your season passes early and avoid waiting in line when the pools open. Season passes are valid for entry into all Township pools including the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.

The regular season for all pools runs through August 10, 2021, with post-season running through September 6, 2021. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ pools for the full pool schedule, in-service dates, pool hours and detailed pool pass information.

Purchasing or renewing your pool pass is easy. Call or visit one of The Woodlands Township’s recreation centers or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun and click Fitness Room and Pool Pass Memberships. For new season pool passes, pictures must be taken at one of the recreation center locations within one week of purchasing a new pass by phone or online.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389 • 281-516-7348

Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX, 77381 • 281-210-3950

Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Daily fees and punch cards are available during pool season. For more information, please call The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park at 281-516-7348 or The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park at 281-210-3950, or email recreation@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Alden Bridge

The June board meeting for Alden Bridge Village Association will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. As of this writing, due to the pandemic issue, our meetings have been held virtually. Follow the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook or our website, www.aldenbridge.org for updates. If you are interested in attending our meetings while they are being held virtually, especially if you have a public comment or concern, please send us an e-mail at abvainfo@gmail.com.

We are extremely proud to announce the winners of our $1,000 scholarships for 2021! Please congratulate Jack Perkins and Christina Suarez, both graduating seniors from The Woodlands High School and 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, especially with their educational adjustments during the COVID-19 crisis.

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program is underway. Please look around the village and send your nominations for best front yard in Alden Bridge to abvayom.gmail.com or abvainfo@gmail.com no later than Wednesday, June 23, 2021, and we’ll award on July 1, 2021. Nominate your neighbors (or yourself)! Come on, you know you’ve seen some beautiful front yards in our village.

Does your business want to reach Alden Bridge residents this summer? We are always seeking sponsors for

our scholarship program! If your company would like to participate, we’ll publicize you on our website and active Facebook page, as well as in our monthly electronic newsletter that reaches more than 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 abvainfo@gmail.com.

Are you on our subscription list for our monthly e-newsletter? To subscribe, please send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com. This information will not be shared and will be used only to send you our monthly newsletter update. Between newsletters, please check our website at www.aldenbridge. org or like the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook for the very latest information. Enjoy the summer, Alden Bridge!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Association awarded five scholarships to residents of Grogan’s Mill this spring.

The recipients are as follows: Ana Berlioz - University of Texas Austin, Andrew Parsons - Lone Star Montgomery College, Kellyn Raybon - The Woodlands High School College Park, Hannah Ross - Sam Houston University, Ryan Willingham - Lone Star Montgomery College

Grogan’s Mill Village Association awards scholarships annually by utilizing profits from The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, which is sponsored by the Grogan’s Mill Village Association.

Thanks to residents supporting The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Grogan’s Mill is also able to donate

to schools, community programs, the Interfaith Food Pantry and other organizations. We thank you for spending your Saturday mornings with us, shopping for produce, honey, meats, crafts, food and more at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors, we usually have live music and a food truck. Please bring your own bags to save on plastic.

Got batteries? Bring your used alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries, from your home, workplace, friends and families to The Woodlands Farmer’s Market where we will hold them until the village challenge officially begins. Grogan’s Mill could win up to $1,000 which we generally use to support schools and student scholarships in the village.

Mark your calendars for July 3, 2021, at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market. We are planning a fun special event to celebrate the 4th of July. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ WoodlandsFarmersMarket to stay up to date with the details.

If you are not a subscriber to the Grogan’s Mill newsletter, you are missing out on important and interesting information about our community. We publish about twice each month, so we won’t fill up your inbox. Please visit www.grogansmill. org/news-and-events or scan the QR code to sign up. We also have a Facebook page that has good information about our community as well at www.facebook.com/ GrogansMillVillageAssociation.

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Indian Springs

Each year, the Indian Springs Village Association awards scholarships to high school students who are graduating and planning to go to college. Each recipient must meet rigorous scholastic and community service standards. 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. Thanks so much to all students who submitted their applications.

We’re excited and pleased to announce that these scholarships will go to twin, graduating seniors, Ashley and Allison Sharer, who attend The Woodlands High School and have each completed more than 1,000 hours of community service in and around The Woodlands.

Ashley and Allison Sharer have competed at the highest levels of Cross Country and Track and Field, but most importantly, they have each received numerous awards honoring their commitments to service. With honors, elected leadership roles and an intense focus on service in the National Charity League, Girl Scouts and Gulf Coast MENSA, Ashley and Allison have defined what it means to be dedicated to community service and citizenship.

We’ve had the privilege of watching them grow up and become remarkable young ladies. We look forward to presenting these scholarships at our May 11, 2021, Indian Springs board meeting. Congratulations, Allison and Ashley!

Taste of the Village, October 23, 2021, Noon to 3 p.m.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars now for the 15th annual Taste of the Village to be held on October 23, 2021, in the Indian Springs Village Shopping Center from noon to 3 p.m. This annual family event features live entertainment, free food samples, multiple activities for kids and a fun-filled afternoon. For more information on the event, sponsorship opportunities and reserving a booth for your business, please contact michael. saucier@indianspringsvillage.com.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Panther Creek residents are moving into summer. Leading the list of free family events is our annual Flag Day Picnic on Saturday, June 12, 2021. Panther Creek residents can join us at Ridgewood Park, 4192 Interfaith Way (next to Interfaith Center), from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The pool will be open to all attendees. Meet the members of your Panther Creek Village Association Board who will be preparing and serving free hot dogs, hamburgers, sodas and water. Flag Day demonstrations and displays will commemorate the day.

Other activities and events in June include Paddle with Your Pup, Water Safety Training, Public Safety Open Houses, a blood drive and more. Please visit the Calendar of Events at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ calendar for more information.

Visit us online at www.panthercreekvillage.org or attend our monthly open meetings held on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Summer Safety for Kids

By Victoria Constance, Ph.D., Executive Director of Children’s Safe Harbor

Assummer arrives, we often consider the top safety issues for our children to include helmets and bike riding safety, swimming lessons and water safety, especially the prevention of the tragedy of drowning in swimming pools, on lakes in boats and at the shore. Included in the list of safety and prevention strategies are applications of sunscreen regularly while outside. If our babies and children are allergic to bee stings, we make sure that we carry the proper medicines at all times to assist in the prevention of anaphylactic shock.

Yet one of the items rarely on our list of summer safety tips, that Children’s Safe Harbor wants to share, is the prevention of online solicitation from sexual predators. Every year, those who wish to harm our children become smarter in their efforts to befriend them and get them to share information in order to lure them into online exploitation, as well as the possibilities of reaching out to meet them in person. In addition to all of the summer fun safety prevention tips for your children and family, please keep as part of your plan open and honest communications about this level of threat and danger to them.

Please visit our website at www.childrenssafeharbor.org to learn more about how your family and all the children in your neighborhood can enjoy the beauty of the season, safe from threats and harm by predators.

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

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites you to stop, drop and roll into your local fire station for an Open House. Learn more about upcoming National Night Out events and get an up-close look at fire apparatus, rescue units and the fire station where it all happens. Children can meet Township 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 on 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 and how residents can participate in National Night Out.

Join us also to learn more about layers of protection to keep your children safe around water. Drowning is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for children ages 1 to 4 and adolescents

By Kristin Pternitis

ages 5 to 19, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Unfortunately, Texas leads the nation in drowning deaths.

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

Mark your calendars, bring your camera and don’t miss the fun! Light refreshments sponsored by H-E-B.

Those planning to attend the event should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines established by the CDC when in public spaces and around others outside of your household. Please note all information is subject to change, pending local state and federal Orders or Declarations.

Water Stewardship in The Woodlands

By Bob Dailey

Single-family water usage in

The Woodlands for 2020 was approximately 3.5 billion gallons, a far cry from the 2011 usage of 5.7 billion gallons – a decrease of more than 2 billion gallons.

Of course, 2011 was a drought year. But even with that consideration, the reduction is significant. The decrease from 2009 – which was not a drought year – is equally as telling.

The number of single-family homes has increased about two percent a year, which means, of course, that the population has also increased. Lower per capita water usage, plus a two percent population growth, is impressive.

Interested observers note that residents of The Woodlands have significantly reduced their water usage. Lower residential water consumption is not the only water-related item that has impacted the community. Communityminded stewardship has also expanded.

For instance, The Woodlands Township has significantly reduced water consumption in its parks and public places, saving about 9 million gallons per year.

The Township’s Environmental Services Department has been highly active in promoting the water conservation message.

Other groups have expanded their support of stewardship here.

The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., the author of the recycling initiative in The Woodlands, has also become involved, reaching out to the public, students and others about stewardship importance.

Population in The Woodlands has increased, on average, about two percent year-over-year during this period. The increase in 2020 was due primarily to the large number of residents working from home during the epidemic. Significantly reduced business usage during this period offset the residential rise.

The group sponsors monthly talks, many of them about water-related topics.

The Woodlands Village Associations are also involved in stewardship, welcoming speakers at their monthly meetings on water conservation topics and other water-related items.

Interfaith of The Woodlands, through their water conservation efforts at their community gardens and elsewhere, Boy and Girl Scouts, National Charity League and their cohorts, National League of Young Men, as well as The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. Student Ambassadors and other organizations, have embraced water stewardship.

The Adopt-a-Path movement, Earth Day GreenUp and many other activities do much to reduce the pollution of our streams, lakes and waterways.

In short, significant numbers of The Woodlands residents are actively involved with water conservation and stewardship at large, with an uncommon awareness of the importance water plays in our lives.

Woodlands Water will continue to urge water conservation through the Defined Irrigation Schedule, an inclining rate structure, the Monday Waterworks email, rebates on water-saving devices and native, drought-tolerant plants, our W.I.S.E. Guys program and various continuing education programs.

This article was provided by Woodlands Water, www.woodlandswater.org.

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 fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands neighborhoods and parks. 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. Do not put your own property and safety, or that of your friends and neighbors, at risk.

“

CONGRATULATIONS! Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow s reality.

CLASS of 2021 as you continue to journey “from curiosity to wisdom.”

Swim Lessons Help Prevent Drowning

By Susan Martin

As the weather warms up and you begin to spend more time outdoors, your family may be spending time at a pool, lake or beach. While summer fun is exciting, it is important to take steps to ensure your child’s safety around bodies of water. Swimming lessons are a great way to reduce the risk of water-related injuries and drowning.

Deciding when to start swim lessons will depend on several factors, including how often your child may be around water, their emotional and physical development and how comfortable he or she is in the water. Once you decide that your child is developmentally ready for swim lessons, ensure that the program you choose includes water safety and survival techniques.

The Woodlands Township offers a variety of swim lessons for different skill levels and age groups as part of the Learn to Swim program. You can learn more about this program on page 12 of the Summer 2021 Action Guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/actionguide.

According to the American Red Cross, critical water safety skills, also known as “water competency,” include the ability to:

ü Step or jump into the water over your head.

ü Return to the surface and float or tread water for one minute.

ü Turn around in a full circle and find an exit.

ü Swim 25 yards to the exit.

ü Exit from the water.

To register for swim lessons, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun or visit or call one of the Township Recreation Centers:

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381 • 281-210-3950

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389 • 281-516-7348

Remember: Swim lessons are just one of several important layers of protection needed to help prevent drowning. Children should never be considered invincible from harm in the water because they’ve had swim lessons and should always be supervised by a designated Water Watcher while in the water.

Join The Woodlands Township BioBlitz

June 21 - 27, 2021

What’s a BioBlitz?

A BioBlitz is a community effort to identify as many plants, animals or insects as possible in one week. The BioBlitz is a great activity for the entire family. This program is hosted by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department.

Two Ways To Participate

Download the free iNaturalist app and join the community project The Woodlands Township BioBlitz June 2021.

1. Explore your back yard, neighborhood park or pond and share your observations all week long via the iNaturalist app.

2. Join the in-person BioBlitz on Saturday, June 27, 2021, from 8 to 11 a.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment or email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

IN THE WOODLANDS S taycation

Withschool out and summer travel season here, you may be looking for your next vacation spot. Why not enjoy a luxurious, family-friendly vacation, with all the fun of travel experiences right in your own back yard? With a staycation in The Woodlands, you can spend every minute relaxing and having fun, without the stress of flights and a long road trip.

In just a few clicks on the Visit The Woodlands website, you can research hotel rates and availability, allowing you to effortlessly plan your stay. Check our website at www.visitthewoodlands.com/resident for itineraries and ideas on things you can do to make it a memorable summer!

THINGS TO DO

• Outdoors

Rent a kayak or swan boat from the Riva Row or Lakes Edge Boat Houses. For an extra thrill, book a climb at Texas TreeVentures!

• Public Art

Take a self-guided art tour to view each of the beautiful public art pieces found in The Woodlands.

• Live Music

Enjoy a concert and listen to live music at various locations around The Woodlands.

• Dining

Try a new restaurant! With over a hundred to choose from, you’re sure to find something new.

Enjoy The Woodlands like a visitor this summer with a staycation or day of exploration in the community.

Photo by Amber George

On The Waterway

20 Waterway Avenue

832.585.1723

NOW OPEN! Come to Hearsay for eclectic American cuisine, custom craft spirits and our signature Chic Antique ambience. Hearsay’s proximity to The Woodlands’ major attractions will make us your new pre-event favorite or the perfect place to cap off your evening.

LUNCH • DINNER • WEEKEND BRUNCH • HAPPY HOUR • PRIVATE EVENTS • HEARSAYONTHEWATERWAY.COM

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 its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2021. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

By Susan Martin

VACATION WATCH

PROVIDES PEACE OF MIND FOR SUMMER

Summer

is here and many will be taking time to travel or get away. Pack a sense of security when you travel by utilizing the Vacation Watch Program offered by Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office or Harris County Constable Precinct 4 (in the village of Creekside Park). With this program, law enforcement deputies will periodically drive by your home, check that it is secure and investigate anything on your property that appears to be suspicious. If anything is found out of the ordinary, you or your emergency contact will be notified. To sign up, all you need to do is visit your local law enforcement agency online and complete a questionnaire.

• Montgomery County www.mctxsheriff.org

Click on Community, Crime Prevention, then on the Vacation Watch icon or call 936-442-7797

• Harris County (Village of Creekside Park) www.constablepct4.com

Click on Community Involvement, Services Offered, then on Vacation Watch Request. Choose Creekside -Woodlands from the dropdown menu or call 281-376-3472

Please note, the frequency of home checks is dependent upon call volume in the area. Active calls for service will take precedence.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch also encourages you to take the time to make sure your home looks lived in while you are away. Below are some additional tips to protect your home.

TRAVEL

• Inform a trusted neighbor of your travel plans and how you can be reached in case of an emergency.

• Leave a key with a neighbor or friend. Ask that the house be checked periodically.

• Set your alarm and check locks on all doors and windows.

• Install a timer on indoor lights so that the house appears occupied. Consider motion sensor lights outside if you do not already have them.

• If you have not suspended delivery, arrange with a neighbor to pick up newspapers, fliers and packages.

• Ensure that the lawn is maintained in your absence.

• Store all valuables out of sight.

• Limit who you inform of your travel plans and do not announce your vacation plans on social media.

• Do not leave ladders and tools accessible for someone to use to gain access to your home.

• Never leave a spare key in a convenient hiding place such as under the doormat or flower pot.

To learn more about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please follow the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TownshipNeighborhodWatch or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch.

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to

Joe’s surgery is now in the rearview mirror. We put it there.

Even before we meet one another, we know we have something in common. Because if you’re facing a neurological issue — you not only want compassion and technology, you want expert physicians with a never-give-in, never-give-up attitude. The kind of attitude that put Joe’s surgery in the rearview mirror, and put Joe back on the dance floor.

We’re The Woodlands Hospital, taking pride in changing destinies. Find out how at StLukesHealth.org/Neuro.