July 2013

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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 28-20-3800

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

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

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

oTher service providers

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

montgomery County sheriff’s office

281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

harris County sheriff’s office 713-221-6000

montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

emergency 9

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

Fourth of July in The Woodlands

theFourth of July in t he Woodlands is a spectacular time for family, friends, fun and fireworks! Festivities begin on Wednesday, July 13, 2013, at the Pavilion’s star-spangled salute. t hursday, July 4, 2013, begins with the annual south Montgomery County Fourth of July Parade (including the marching band competition) and ends with the 16th a nnual red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks extravaganza. see page 12 for a listing of all the entertainment in between!

Beat the texas summer heat at one of (or all!) 14 community pools located throughout the Woodlands township. residents can pick up a copy of the newest splash! brochure, the township’s official guide to water fun, which contains abundant information about the community pools, including admission fees, season pool passes, pool schedule, programs, pool amenities, rentals and a map of all pool locations. all of this information is also online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools.

It’s not too late to enjoy the benefits of a season pool pass! see pages 6 and 7 for more information.

a nd don’t forget that the only time to take advantage of the Voyager transportation and recreation Pass is when purchasing a season pool pass. t he Voyager Pass allows the resident pool pass holder a certain number of entries to the r iva row Boat House, Waterway Cruisers and t he Ice r ink at town Center, depending on the level purchased, either basic ($75) or premium ($100). Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/voyager for more details.

summertime is also budgeting season at t he Woodlands township. Please see pages 22 and 23 for a listing of public budget workshops and the town Hall meeting where you can learn about the budget and also address the Board with concerns or comments.

Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Gordy Bunch

Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass Position No. 2 Director

Jeff Long Position No. 3 Director

Nelda Blair Position No. 5 Director

Bruce Tough

Position No. 7 Chairman

Peggy Hausman

Position No. 6 Vice Chairman

Ed Robb

Position No. 4 Secretary

The Woodlands

C ommuni T y 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.

Cham P ions sTa FF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr. account executives

Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Creative director Lori Short graphic designers

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

T o W nshi P sTa FF director of Community Relations Nick Wolda editor Mary Connell

assistant editor Elena Smith

Copy editor Susan Schneider editorial assistant

Terri Jefferies

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 is a past recipient of The Communicator Award of Distinction, the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators and a Merit Award from The Service Industry Advertising Awards.

with a pass! More

Beat the summer heat at one of t he Woodlands township’s 14 beautiful pools. regular pool season runs through sunday, august 25, 2013. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools for the comprehensive schedule and fees for daily admission and punch cards and passes.

t here’s still plenty of time to purchase a season pool pass! a new season pool pass must be purchased at t he Woodlands recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive. Hours of operation are Monday through t hursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Forms are available on the township Web site.

to renew a season pool pass, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools, call 281-210-3950 or stop by the Woodlands recreation Center. Don’t forget that the only time to take advantage of the Voyager Pass, is when purchasing a season pool pass. Visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/voyager for more details.

season Pool Pass

season passes provide unlimited visits to rob Fleming aquatic center

0

splash 2013, the official guide to the Woodlands water fun, is available at:

• All of The Woodlands pools

• The Woodlands Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381

• Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, Texas 77381

• The Home Finder Center

2000 Woodlands Parkway

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

• Market Street Concierge Market Street, 9595 Six Pines

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

• Town Hall

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, Texas 77381

• Parks and Recreation Department of Environmental Services

8203 Millenium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Photo by Jon Krenytzky

The Woodlands Township is proud to introduce a new amenity available to resident season pool pass holders, the Voyager Transportation and Recreation Pass!

Voyager Pass the Solution for Fun!

In addition to having access to all 14 township pools, the Voyager Pass allows the pass holder a certain number of entries to r iva row Boat House, the Waterway Cruisers and the Ice r ink at the Woodlands town Center. the Voyager transportation and recreation Pass is available at two levels, basic and premium. the basic level, priced at $75, will allow the pass holder three entries to the amenities and services listed above, in addition to access to all 14 pools. the premium level, priced at $100, allows the pass holder five entries to the three amenities, plus the pools. the Voyager Pass is only available to residents of the Woodlands at the time of purchasing a season pool pass.

Is Your FamIlY PrePared For hurrIcane season?

emeRgenCy inFoRmaTion

For emergency information specific to the Woodlands, listen to K-star Country, KVst 99.7 FM, official emergency broadcast partner of the Woodlands township.

• Fully redundant power

• Locally owned and operated

• Covers north Houston and Conroe areas

• Local news, weather and traffic

Listen daily at 99.7 FM or online at kstarcountry.com. For more information about emergency preparedness, call t he Woodlands township at 281-210-3800 or visit the Homeland security Web site at www.ready.gov.

hurricane season is upon us, and The Woodlands Township Board of directors urges all residents to be prepared by planning what you and your family should do if disaster strikes our area. Thinking about

it now will help you decide what to do later.

emeRgenCy suPPly KiTs

assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need in one place. your emergency preparedness kit should include at least these most basic supplies. Include plenty of drinking water along with these recommended supplies to include:

• one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

• at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a national oceanic and atmospheric administration ( noaa) weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help.

• Filter mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air.

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

• Manual can opener and utensils if kit contains canned food.

• plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

• important family documents.

• items for unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers.

Emergency Preparedness Program

The Woodlands

Just Do one thing

by Lou DePadova, Communications Officer, the Woodlands Cert

Family Communi C ation Plan

thismonth, make sure that you have the ability to communicate with family members during a disaster. today we have more ways to speak with one another than ever before. We are used to staying in touch with cell phones, internet and e-mail, but disasters can change things. these devices may not be available. Cell phone towers quickly become overloaded with people trying to reach friends and family. If the power is out at your home, cordless phones, internet and e-mail will not work either.

• Have at least one corded phone and a car charger for your cell phone standing by in case of a power failure.

Phones with cordless handsets won’t work in a disaster because they need more electricity than they can get from the phone jack. Corded phones connecting the handset to the base will work even in a power outage.

If you don’t have a landline, remember that cell phone towers may be tied up with calls in an emergency. However, a text message from your cell phone may get through. Make sure everyone in your family knows how to send and receive text messages.

never call 9-1-1 to get information about what is going on in an emergency. Only call 9-1-1 if you are injured or need help.

• Develop a plan for how your family will stay in touch during a disaster. Include phone numbers for all family members and those who can give you extra help, such as caregivers. also include work, school and daycare phone numbers, if applicable. a walletsize communication form can be found at www.ready.gov.

outside-the-area contact: Local phone calls and long distance calls work on different circuits. When local circuits are overloaded, you may still be able to make long distance calls. Choose someone outside of the local calling area

to be your outside-the-area contact. If something happens when your family is not together family members can call the outside-the-area contact and leave a message for the others.

safe and Well: the red Cross safe and Well program is a way for families to keep in touch when they are separated in a disaster. Visit the Web site at www.safeandwell.org now and show family members how it works.

• Program In Case of Emergency (ICE) numbers into all family cell phones. If you have a cell phone, you can provide the phone numbers for your emergency contacts to first responders and hospital staff if you are unable to talk.

1. Create a new contact in your cell phone’s phone book.

2. name the contact ICe , which stands for In Case of emergency.

3. enter all phone numbers for the person(s) you would like notified in an emergency.

remember, emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. the Woodlands Community emergency response team hopes to help individuals, families and businesses prepare and become disaster resilient. stay informed and be ready by following the Woodlands Community emergency response team on the web at www.twcert.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ theWoodlandsCert or on twitter at www.twitter.com/WoodlandsCert.

Make a Plan

Water

Sheltering Food

Work, School and Community

unique Family Needs

Family Communication Plan

Get Involved

Be Informed

Power

Emergency Supplies

First Aid

Fourth of July

Schedule of Events in The Woodlands

OnWednesday, July 3, 2013, spend an evening under the stars with the entire family at the Houston Symphony’s Annual Star-Spangled Salute, a free concert at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion starting at 8 p.m.

Catch the South Montgomery County Fourth of July Parade starting at 9 a.m. after the parade, cool off at the township pools for Splash Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with activities planned from noon to 4 p.m. Later that evening, bring the kids to northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, for the “Things That Go” Bike Parade and Decorating Contest at 4:30 p.m. Children 14 years and younger are invited to bring their patriotically decorated bike, scooter or wagon and parade around the park. awards will be given throughout the afternoon. Pack a picnic and bring your lawn chairs to northshore Park on thursday, July 4, 2013, for a Free Concert in the Park. enjoy an evening of country and a mericana music with Hope Cassity, beginning at 5:30 p.m. a fterwards, enjoy free, live music at town Green Park and Waterway square at the Red, Hot & Blue Festival. acts include the country and a mericana sounds of Grady skelton, country and folk singer Parker McCollum, classic rock favorite sera PH and t he Knowhow, an alternative rock and blues band. Waterway Cruisers will operate Monday, July 1, 2013 through t hursday, July 4, 2013; however, service will stop before the fireworks display. t he Cruisers will resume their regular schedule on Friday, July 5, 2013.

the a nnual red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza is free and open to the public thanks to generous sponsors: ellis & ellis Private Wealth Investors, BBVa Compass, H-e-B, Memorial Hermann the Woodlands Hospital, Coca-Cola, talisman energy, City of shenandoah, Waste Management, Wright’s Printing, Bud Light, the Woodlands Development Company, st. Luke’s – the Woodlands Hospital, Congressman Kevin Brady, Planet Ford, City of Oak r idge north, splashtown, the Woodlands Country Club & Canongate, r ico’s Mexican Grille and Gigi’s Cupcakes. new for 2013, the Fireworks extravaganza will be launched from two locations – Timberloch place near i-45 and Waterway square. Best viewing is along The Woodlands Waterway ® . Please note, the north side of the Woodlands Waterway® pathway along a nadarko has scaffolding which will obstruct fireworks viewing.

For more information, maps and up-to-date parking information or a listing of hotels, visit www.redhotblue.org. For other information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/fourthofjuly or www.4thofjuly.org

Fans of all ages enjoyed the entertainment at last year’s red, hot & Blue Festival.

Fireworks light the sky over the Waterway.

star-spangled salute led by conductor Michael Krajewski.

Thursday, July 4,

6

SATURDAY, JuNE 29 WATERWAY

Wednesday, July 3 HOUSTON

Thursday, July 4

Things that Go Bike Parade

Woodlands Fire Department’s resident dog, Relay, waits patiently while the firefighters put away gear after a service call.

july

Tuesday, July 2

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m. 281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Wednesday, July 3

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

5:30 p.m. 281-210-3973

Houston Symphony presents “Star-Spangled Salute”

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion FREE event

8 p.m. www.woodlandscenter.org

Thursday, July 4

Independence Day Township offices closed. No trash and recycling pickup.

Fourth of July Parade Market Street

9 a.m.

Visit www.4thofjuly.org or call 281-210-3975.

Splash Day

FREE event at all community pools. Pools open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; special activities from noon to 4 p.m. 281-210-3800

“Things That Go” Bike Parade Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. 281-210-3950

FREE Concert in the Park

Hope Cassity (Country & Americana) Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 9 p.m. 281-210-3950

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Town Green Park and Waterway Square along The Woodlands Waterway®

6 to 10 p.m.

Visit www.redhotblue.org or call 281-363-2447.

saturday, July 6

grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Tuesday, July 8

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Tuesday, July 9

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Heartsaver CPR Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m. 281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Thursday, July 

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

The

Photo by Firefighter/Paramedic Rob Mitchell

saturday, July 3

grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Dive-in Movie

Madagascar 3

Cranebrook Pool, 11800 Cranebrook Drive

8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Admission is $5 per person.

monday, July 5

grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, July 6

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Wednesday, July 7

Mini Compost Class

The Woodlands Mall

Between Barnes & Noble and Anthropologie

4 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3800

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

5:30 p.m.

281-210-3973

Thursday, July 8

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-281-3800

Friday, July 9

gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

saturday, July 20

grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

monday, July 22

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Tuesday, July 23

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #1

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8 a.m.

281-281-3800

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 24

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 5 p.m.

281-281-3800

The Woodlands Township Town Hall Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, July 25

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #2

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8 a.m.

281-281-3800

holiday Garbage collection

Friday, July 26

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #3 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8 a.m.

281-281-3800

saturday, July 27

grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

monday, July 29

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #4 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8 a.m.

281-281-3800

Tuesday, July 30

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #5 (only if needed)

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8 a.m.

281-281-3800

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

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

There will be no pick-up on Independence Day (Thursday, July 4, 2013). Neighborhoods that usually receive collection on Thursday will have their service delayed by one day. All subsequent routes for the rest of the week will also be delayed by one day. Friday’s route will receive service on Saturday. All solid waste services are affected. Regular service will resume on Monday, July 8, 2013. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment.

Alden Bridge

Happy 4th of July from a lden Bridge! Come out and wave to our a lden Bridge entry in the big parade on July 4. t here’s a lot to do in t he Woodlands this holiday, so take advantage of all the funfilled activities. We’re especially excited about seeing the fireworks set off from two locations this year!

t his month’s residents meeting will be held on tuesday, July 9, 2013, at 7 p.m. at the township building, 2801 technology Forest Blvd. Look for news of our speaker in our monthly e-mail newsletter or on our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org. a ll residents are encouraged to attend and bring us your questions and concerns.

save the date! a lden Bridge will participate in the villages’ baseball game outing on saturday, september 28, 2013. If you’d like to join us on our bus, there may be some tickets remaining, so contact dbell7246@aol.com. tickets are $21 each and the price covers the game and the bus trip. t he astros will play the new york yankees that evening.

We’re always looking for nominations for the monthly yard of the Month award. Please send your candidates for best front yard in the village to info@aldenbridge.org. t he winning household receives a gift from

Lowe’s, goodies from Chick-fil-a, tickets to a performance at t he Pavilion, free classes at rydenow Indoor Cycling and a yard sign recognizing their hard work. We’ll award the next winning yard on august 1.

We continue to publish our monthly electronic village newsletter. to join our subscriber list of more than 800 households, please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org. your e-mail address will never be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village.

Submitted by Darla

Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

t he annual meeting of the Cochran’s Crossing Village association featured a presentation by Precinct 3 County Commissioner James noack. Participating with Commissioner noack were Matt Beasley, precinct project manager, and Justin scharnhorst, chief of staff. Commissioner noack stressed the importance of communication from residents involving recommendations, questions and concerns. t he focus of Precinct 3 is to provide a quick response. Commissioner noack has established a Commissioners advisory Council that meets once a month. t his is a public

forum in nature and later focus groups will be established related to specific interests. t he south Montgomery mobility study, which includes north Harris, was discussed in detail. t he county works with the township and other entities on joint projects with an emphasis on matching grants. t he san Jacinto r iver authority project to bring water from Lake Conroe is an example of coordination among multiple agencies. a strong effort is being made to plan construction work in ways to lessen the disruption of traffic as much as possible. Other efforts involving traffic include better timing of signals and elimination of red light cameras. Justin scharnhorst described steps that have been taken to make the recycle center safer with a better appearance and more electronics to speed up the process. Commissioner noack also described the spring Creek Greenway development. t he 12,000acre area has great recreation and environmental potential and the County is looking for funding partners to help the project move forward.

In other Cochran’s Crossing Village association activity:

• t hanks to Galatas elementary Principal Marlene Lindsay for her support in the school's ongoing recycling program to collect plastic

N EWS FR o M THE V illages o F T he W oodlands

The winners of the 2013 Alden Bridge Village Association scholarships are, from left to right, Sydney Barker, Zheyuan Shan and Morgan Stokes.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association at the 2012 July 4th parade.

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

College Park

Happy 4th of July to everyone! the Woodlands has such a fantastic fireworks display planned including an additional fireworks location at Waterway square. the original location will remain at timberloch near I-45. Our fireworks are always soooo beautiful for all of us to enjoy.

caps for our village association, and congratulations on her retirement after a career spanning 37 years.

• t he Cochran’s Crossing Village association Pool Party and snow Cone social was held at Bear Branch Park on June 8, 2013. t his free event was a great start to the summer and was attended by hundreds of Cochran’s Crossing residents. Cochran’s Crossing Village association was also represented in the 4th of July parade.

• as in past years Cochran’s Crossing Village association was able to fund several scholarships for area high school students. recipients included John Grogan and Caroline Dubose, both seniors at t he Woodlands High school. John is active in school organizations, is a cadet with the a ir Force Junior rOtC, participates in volunteer activities and also works part time. He plans to attend texas a&M university and major in mathematics. Caroline, like John, plans to attend texas a&M. Her intent is to major in industrial distribution and ultimately work within the oil and gas industry. a member of the Lady Highlander soccer team, Caroline is also active in school organizations such as Interact and community groups as part of t he Woodlands united Methodist Church youth group. she also works part time.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

If you need to cool off on the Fourth, it is also splash Day at all 14 community pools from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with special activities planned from noon to 4 p.m. How cool is that? Our friendly Kroger is sponsoring that event for the Woodlands.

Concert in the Park is also on July 4 at northshore Park at 5:30 p.m. Bring a picnic, blanket and chairs and enjoy being outside listening to great music before you head to the fireworks.

Our College Park float will be in the parade that we hope so many of our residents will see and cheer on! the 4th of July parade starts at 9 a.m. around Market street. Go early with a chair to cheer all of our villages on as they pass by. Please check our College Park Web site, listed to the right, for details on the 4th of July float, and if you would like to help decorate and participate in the parade.

It is the summer and hurricanes, heavy rain and wind are always a threat to our area. Please keep your family prepared and aware of upcoming weather forecasts so that everyone is always safe and out of harm’s way. Have a plan that you and your family will follow if any weather warnings should occur.

Our College Park spring Fling at Harper’s Landing Park was a success and a lot of fun! thank you to our College Park board members who worked so hard on making it such a fun event. It was great having our beautiful pool open too! If you have not visited Harper’s Landing pool, please make it a point to see how nice it is for our residents.

continued on page 20

a lden Brid G e

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

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

c ochran’s c rossin G

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

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

c olle G e par K

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

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

c ree K side par K

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

Web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com

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

Gro G an’s Mill

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

Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

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

President George van Horn at president@gmva.org.

i ndian s prin G s

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

Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

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

pan T her c ree K

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

Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

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

sT erlin G r id G e

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

Web site www.sterling-ridge.org

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

County Commissioner Precinct 3 James Noack, left, and Cochran’s Crossing Village Association President Stuart Schroeder visit at the annual meeting.

the students are out and about for the summer. Please be careful on our streets. We have to have more patience when driving around and parking. It is just busier during the summer, but enjoy.

In closing, our monthly College Park Village association meeting is always the third Monday of the month at the Woodlands township building, located at 2801 technology Forest Boulevard, the Woodlands 77381. We start promptly at 7:30 p.m., and are always eager to see new residents come and visit, share concerns, present new ideas and volunteer for upcoming events.

enjoy your summer days!

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Grogan’s Mill

the farmers’ market continues to grow with new vendors joining almost every week. there are now more than 40 vendors on the roster, with 25 to 30 selling every saturday, rain or shine, at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, from 8 a.m. until noon. Often there is special entertainment for the kids, such as a fantastic balloon artist, baby farm animals and free face painting. Check the Grogan’s Mill Village association Web site at www.grogansmillvillage.com for the latest information on vendors and products. you can also subscribe to Friday’s weekly farmers’ market e-blast newsletter on the same Web site that will let you know what the vendors will bring to the market the next morning.

the Grogan’s Mill nature trail Bridge replacement is now open, following weeks of delay caused by procurement and untimely rain. this new structure is much stronger than the previous one and has been raised by two feet in order to be less susceptible to heavy stream flows.

the san Jacinto r iver authority will start construction on Grogan’s Mill road in august on laying new water lines. this project is expected to continue for several months. the southbound lanes will be closed while construction is taking place. all southbound traffic will be rerouted to

one of the two northbound lanes. expect delays in both directions, so have patience and be courteous….we’re all in this together as our infrastructure is improved for the community. Visit www.sjra.net/grp for more details.

the yard of the Month winner for June is the Palmore family on Flowertuft. the Palmore’s have resided here for more than 30 years. Charles was the nature lover and gardener in the family. When he was no longer able to work in the garden, the neighbors on Flowertuft got together to help nora create a beautiful yard consisting of magnolias, azaleas, variegated ginger, lantana, hibiscus and holly. two rabbit sculptures add to the whimsy of this lovely garden. nora’s neighbors provided a lasting gift that’s enjoyed by all throughout the year.

Submitted by

Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

4th of July

the Indian springs Village association wishes everyone a happy and safe 4th of July. Plans are underway to participate in the 2013 south County Fourth of July Parade. this year’s theme is “Parade of stars.” the parade will begin at 9 a.m. near the Woodlands united Methodist Church and will travel a 1.3mile route. Get your red, white and blue on and come out to the parade this year!

Pictured is the award-winning Indian springs Village association float from

2012. under the guidance and inspiration of Indian springs resident and board member r ichard stromatt, Indian springs built a float to hold our very own “Of thee We sing” Indian springs Village association youth Chorus. the children sang patriotic songs as the float travelled along the parade route. Indian springs Village association President a my Lecocq praised it as a “fabulous effort.” For the third year in a row, Indian springs won the Best Community entry award and trophy. Mr. stromatt noted, “It happened because a whole lot of people worked on it.” He added, “the children’s presence and enthusiasm made all the difference. they loved the applause after every song.”

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

the Panther Creek Village association has kicked off the summer with several events. the annual Flag Day Picnic was held at r idgewood Park on June 15, 2013. this very popular free event for young and old brought out kids and neighbors for free food and fun. Our master chefs prepared scrumptious hot dogs and hamburgers to go with the ice cold sodas and snacks. snow cones were served up by our Panther Creek Village association volunteers. the r idgewood Park pool was open to all picnickers for the day for free. Veterans presented a special Flag Day display and told us about flag history and etiquette.

Panther Creek Village association will again host an entry in the south County 4th of July Parade. Be on the look-out for a ferocious black (not pink) panther regally riding in an exotic english convertible sports car.

Keep a space on your calendar for the 30th annual national night Out on tuesday, October 1, 2013. your Woodlands Watch coordinator will help prepare for your party. If you do not have a coordinator and wish to hold your own party, you can register and get more information at www. theWoodlandstownship-tX.gov/ nationalnightOut. this is a great way to meet new neighbors and revisit with old friends while promoting safety and sharing valuable resource information.

Photo by Ken Schumann

also save a spot on your calendar for the annual outing to watch the Houston astros beat the new york yankees at Minute Maid Park. On saturday, september 28, 2013, we’ll board a comfortable bus at the Panther Creek shopping Center at 4:30 p.m. for an enjoyable trip that is included with your ticket price of $21. Call Mary Bootz at 281-296-9960 for information or tickets. Hurry, these tickets go fast every year!

your Panther Creek Village association meets the second thursday of each month at the Woodlands township building, 2801 technology Forest Blvd., at 7 p.m. all residents are welcome to come and hear reports from local law enforcement, and about community events. Community leaders address the issues that affect you. at our last meeting we welcomed one of your neighbors, timothy “Chase” r ichter, as the newest member of the board. We still have one opening for you to join us on the board.

For years this column was written by Merle Causey, who has retired from the board. His many services, active participation, writing skills and charm will be sorely missed.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

A&O Troopers and Horses patrol The Woodlands Township regularly as one component of the comprehensive security plan. We appreciate being a part of the community for the last 18 years. Please visit with our Troopers, pet the horses, and let us know how we are doing. Visit our web site or connect with us on Facebook and leave a comment there.

Your opinion matters to us.

CANDIDATES FOR OUR PROFESSIONAL RIDERS MUST INTERVIEW AND TEST WITH THEIR HORSES. BOTH HORSE AND RIDER ARE REQUIRED TO PASS A MULTI-POINT CHECKLIST DURING

Meeting Schedule

Board of Directors Meeting .......................................... Thursday, July 18, 2013 • 9 a.m.

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #1 ........................ Tuesday, July 23, 2013 • 8 a.m.

Board of Directors Meeting ...................................... Wednesday, July 24, 2013 • 5 p.m.

Town Hall Meeting ................................................. Wednesday, July 24, 2013 • 7 p.m.

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #2 ....................... Thursday, July 25, 2013 • 8 a.m.

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #3 ........................... Friday, July 26, 2013 • 8 a.m.

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #4 ........................ Monday, July 29, 2013 • 8 a.m.

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #5 (Only if needed) ....... Tuesday, July 30, 2013 • 8 a.m.

Additional meetings and public hearings may be scheduled during the months of July and August. For more information about The Woodlands Township, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800.

learn to Recognize

Slender aerial roots become dense and “hairy” in appearance on older growth. Since all parts are toxic, including stems and rootlets, we need to recognize the vine year round!

Leaflets

of three, let it be. t his may be a familiar adage, but those of us with limited outdoor experience may not be confident about what poison ivy looks like. everyone should learn to identify poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) and to avoid it.

Would you know it? “Leaflets of three” describes the single leaf of poison ivy. each three-parted leaf attaches alternately along the stem. note how the stalk of the center (terminal) leaflet is longer than the stalks of the other two.

unintentional encounters with poison ivy are commonplace when walking on the pathways, working in the garden, retrieving Frisbees from the woods or petting our dogs and cats (themselves immune) fresh from exploring their surroundings. t he variety of growth forms attributes to poison ivy’s stealth nature—from a creeping groundcover to a shrub or a large climbing vine sending out its own perpendicular branches.

a common native deciduous vine in the woods of the eastern united states, poison ivy is quite ornamental in autumn when the leaves turn yellow and red. a ll parts of the plant including the yellowgreen flowers, white fruits, bare woody stems and rootlets produce urushiol,

an oily resin in the sap that causes a blistering rash in 85 percent of the human population. even dead plant parts remain potent.

Because the oil is transferred so easily, it is possible to develop the rash without ever coming into physical contact with the plant. exposure to smoke from burning plants is particularly dangerous because the vaporized oil can be inhaled and is very damaging to lung tissue. Don’t be deluded if you have escaped a reaction in the past, because immunity can be lost with repeated contact.

Don’t confuse poison ivy with other native deciduous vines possessing compound (many-parted) leaves— peppervine and Virginia creeper. Virginia creeper (five-parted, palmate leaf) and/or peppervine (bi-pinnate— “double feather” leaf) are often mistaken for the toxic vine especially as young sprouts. In summer and fall, when fruits are present on mature plants the distinction is easier— both lookalikes produce black berries nOt white as in poison ivy. Know the difference and preserve the innocuous native vines in your yard. Can you tell the real thing from the imposters below?

Photos by K.G. Herrick A.Virginia Creeper B.Peppervine C.Poison Ivy

“This is what we have been looking for in team sports. Good positive people who care about kids, not scores.”

Cas Frost, Clear Lake

“FFPS lives up to its name. FFPS has the right philosophy.”

Phil Bradshaw, The Woodlands

“This was my son’s first season and he is deaf. FFPS not only taught him soccer, but accepted him for who he is.”

Tiffany Quick, Cy-Fair

Practices - One Practice Per Week

Coaches will call players to schedule first practice by October 9 at the latest. Practice times and location determined by the coach and team. One practice per week. Visit FFPS.org for more practice information.

All Games Played at Woodlands High - 9th Grade

Woodlands High School - 9th Grade located at Woodlands Pkwy. and Branch Crossing.

Teams

Team formations are always fair and balanced by ability, size, age and grade. Only ONE friend request allowed per player. Visit www.ffps.org for more information. FFPS is a parent involved program. Coaching is rewarding, easy, and fun in FFPS, too!

Bugs Bunny at the Symphony Returns This Summer

Back on t he Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s stage is Bugs Bunny at the symphony II on tuesday, July 16, 2013, at 8:30 p.m. t his exciting new edition of Looney tunes and live orchestra accompaniment adds classics like Duck a muck, along with such beloved special guests as Pepe Le Pew and tom and Jerry in t he Hollywood Bowl! Plus two sensational new 3D theatrical animated shorts! tickets are $15 for orchestra seating. Mezzanine and lawn seating are free courtesy of a nadarko Petroleum Corporation. tickets are not required for free seating. Gates open at 7 p.m. t his event is sponsored in part by Houston Family Magazine.

a rrive early for pre-concert activities starting at 7 p.m. in the north Plaza featuring Fidelity Investments, Century 21 realty Partners, renewal by a ndersen, the Pavilion Partners, radio Disney road Crew, Woodforest national Bank, Houston Family Magazine and audi of a merica, official automobile of the Pavilion. Guests can register to win tommy Bahama’s “Best seats in the House.” the first 1,000 guests to visit the north Plaza get free ice cream with all the fixings, courtesy of Fidelity Investments. at all symphonies, guests are welcome to have a picnic in their seat or on the hill. Keep in mind that beverages cannot be brought into t he Pavilion. Lawn chairs also are provided free for this event!

WCM

Fireworks Prohibited in the woodlands

the Woodlands township Fire Department reminds all residents that t he Woodlands Covenants strictly prohibit the sale or use of home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in t he Woodlands. t he Woodlands is situated in a beautiful forest, and with dry weather conditions, one errant spark could severely damage the community. If you feel the holidays are not the same without a firecracker or two, please come out and enjoy the Fourth of July Fireworks extravaganza in t he Woodlands town Center. you will not be disappointed!

For more information, please contact

The Woodlands Township Fire Department at 281-367-3444,

The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800, or visit our the Township’s Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/fourthofjuly.

Bugged By

ChinCh Bugs

By Bob Dailey

as the summer begins to heat up, chinch bugs can pose a problem to st. augustine lawns. yet even though chinch bugs become most active when it’s hot and dry, the weather has little to do with chinch bug infestations. In fact, what homeowners do, or don’t do, to their lawns contributes more to chinch bugs than weather fluctuations.

Chinch bugs need grass thatch to lay eggs and for the nymphs to grow to adulthood. thatch is the result of accumulated clippings that have fallen around the blades of grass. In a healthy lawn, thatch is quickly consumed by billions of microbes living in the soil.

Forcing oxygen from the soil quickly kills these aerobic microbes. Without the microbes, thatch becomes a problem and the cycle necessary for chinch bug infestations is completed. Over-irrigation and improper irrigation techniques (not using a cycle-soak technique, for instance) are the two main factors that deprive the soil of oxygen and kill off microbes. Properly irrigated and cared-for lawns have deep root systems supported by healthy soil structure.

The Damage They Do

a lawn infested with chinch bugs has irregular areas of dead or yellowing grass. Chinch bugs insert a syringe-like mouth part into the grass blade and suck the juices from the plant. as the population increases, so does the damage.

Preventing Chinch Bugs

Don’t overwater! ensure healthy soil by adding organic compost twice a year, and cut grass about once a week or every other week on the highest setting.

Control

there are chemical pesticides available, but best practices suggest using diatomaceous earth, compost, molasses and orange oil to get rid of the pests. If thatch has accumulated, dethatch and then follow a regimen to develop healthy soil. Healthy lawns will follow.

Does Your Lawn Have Chinch Bugs?

Lawn care professionals and residents can determine if they have chinch bug infestations by using a simple method. First, take a coffee can that is open at both ends. Find a place where the yellowing grass borders green grass. Insert one end of the can into the soil. Fill the coffee can with water and wait a few minutes. If chinch bugs are present, they will float to the top. Chinch bugs are about 1/5 of an inch long and have black bodies and white wings with triangular markings on them.

Chinch bugs on a blade of grass

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“I learned how to get involved be active in student organizations, network with people, and pursue community service. ”

Jeremy Wegner, 2012 Electrical Engineering University of Houston

Register now for fall!

Open Doors

www.LoneStar.edu

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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 © 2013. 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.