July 2014

On the Cover

The

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (Water)

Montgomery County M.U.D.S., 855-H2O-SAVE (855-426-7283)

Harris County M.U.D. 386, 281-290-6500

Emergency 911

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

ENJOY

THE 17TH

ANNUAL Red, Hot & Blue FESTIVAL

TheFourth of July festivities are all set, and everyone is invited to enjoy family, food, friends, fun and fireworks at Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway ®. The patriotic celebrations begin on Thursday, July 3, 2014, at 8 p.m. at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion with the Star-Spangled Salute from the Houston Symphony. This event is free and a spectacular way to kick off the weekend.

The following morning, the traditional Fourth of July Parade begins at 9 a.m., so sport your finest red, white and blue and head to Market Street for an up-close view. After the parade, cool off at Splash Day in one of the 14 refreshing community pools in The Woodlands from noon to 4 p.m. New this year, the Concert in the Park at 5:30 p.m., traditionally held at Northshore Park, has moved to Waterway Square to allow for better fireworks viewing following the concert.

At 6 p.m., the Red, Hot and Blue Festival begins as two stages come alive with music in Town Green Park, along with eating contests, strolling entertainment, vendor booths and much more. This will all be topped off with an incredible fireworks show for all. This is a wonderful celebration of our great nation, and all the information you need to know about the celebration can be found on pages 6, 7 and 8. We look forward to seeing you there. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! Be sure to check www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/fourthofjuly and www.redhotblue.org for updates to the schedule of events.

Summer is also the time that The Woodlands Township Board of Directors holds budget meetings and public hearings related to the 2015 budget and 2014 property tax rate. Truth-in-Taxation laws require that two public hearings will be held on the property tax rate if the proposed rate is higher than the effective tax rate or rollback rate, whichever is lower. Meetings are held at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX 77381. Please refer to the calendar on pages 16 and 17 for public budget meeting schedule or visit the Township’s website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for the most up-to-date listing.

Gordy Bunch Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass Position No.

Jeff Long

John McMullan

Bruce Tough

Peggy S. Hausman

Ed Robb

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 Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Photo Editor Susan Schneider

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Amber Parsley

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 two 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.

Texas Children’s Hospital, a Texas original for 60 years, Is ranked four th in the nation and best in the southwest We’re changing the face of pediatric medicine

By providing the best care for our patients, No matter where they hang their hat

Look for us in Houston

You won’t find us anywhere else .

Only in Texas.

THE WOODLANDS OFFERS

the Ultimate 4th of July CELEBRATION

Celebrate America’s Independence in The Woodlands on July 4, 2014, at the 17th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival and the Fireworks Extravaganza. As one of the community’s signature events, the festival will feature live music, children’s activities and vendors, capped off with a 20-minute spectacular fireworks show, simulcast on Sunny 99.1 FM. Produced by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, the festival will be held in Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway®. Families can enjoy hot dog and watermelon eating contests, face painting, strolling performers, games, inflatables, arts and crafts, concessions and more from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visit www.redhotblue.org for the most

up-to-date information about festival activities and fireworks locations, and www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ fourthofjuly

Leading up to the Red, Hot & Blue Festival, families can spend an evening under the stars at the Houston Symphony’s annual Star-Spangled Salute, a free concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Thursday, July 3, starting at 8 p.m. The next day, the Fourth of July celebration begins bright and early with the South County Fourth of July parade at Market Street, 9595 Six Pines Drive, starting at 9 a.m.

After the parade, cool off at Splash Day from noon to 4 p.m. at one of 14 pools in The Woodlands. The Concert in the Park will follow, new this year, at Waterway Square, beginning at

5:30 p.m. In addition to live music at the Red, Hot & Blue Festival, kids can enjoy bungee jumping, bubble runners, a water slide, inflatables and vendor booths. The Woodlands Children’s Museum will offer free arts and crafts for the kids. The H-E-B hot dog and watermelon eating contests start at 6:30 p.m. in Town Green Park. To participate in the eating contest, attendees can sign up at the eating contest tent located near the north entrance of Town Green Park. Coolers, outside food and drinks are prohibited in Town Green Park during the Red, Hot & Blue Festival.

The Woodlands Waterway® Cruisers will operate on The Woodlands Waterway® on July 4, 2014, until 8:45 p.m. The cruisers will resume regular operating hours on Saturday, July 5, 2014, at 11 a.m. For more information on the Fourth of July activities and The Woodlands, go to www.redhotblue.org, www.VisitTheWoodlands.com or call 281-363-2447.

Presented by

Produced by

Friday, July 4, 2014

6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway®

The Festival is FREE and open to the public.

Fireworks

Extravaganza*

Starting at Dusk!

Best viewing at Town Green Park, Waterway Square and along The Woodlands Waterway® Presented by

Thursday, July 3, 2014

* Houston Symphony’s Star Spangled Salute

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion – 8 p.m.

Friday, July 4, 2014

* 4th of July Parade Market Street – 9 a.m.

* Splash Day Activities

All 14 pools in The Woodlands – Noon - 4 p.m.

* Concert in the Park Waterway Square – 5:30 p.m.

* Red, Hot & Blue Festival Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway® – 6 p.m.*

2014 Red, Hot & Blue Fireworks Extravaganza

NEW LAUNCH LOCATIONS

This year, the 17th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Fireworks Extravaganza, presented by BBVA Compass, will be launched from Town Green Park and Waterway Square. This will offer different fireworks viewing spots focused on The Woodlands Waterway® and more convenient parking.

The fireworks displays will be launched simultaneously for 20 minutes, while simulcast live on Sunny 99.1 FM, and will be fired by one of the country’s leading fireworks companies, Pyro Shows. Fireworks spectators should note the previous Fireworks Extravaganza launch location on Timberloch Place near I-45 will no longer serve as a launch site due to obstructed views for festival attendees and residents of The Woodlands. This means that previous viewing locations will not be available in 2014 due to the new launch locations, including Northshore Park, Southshore Park, viewing points along The Woodlands’ golf courses, Lamar Elementary, The Woodlands Mall, Market Street and all areas east of Interstate 45.

When it comes to the best viewing spots for the Fireworks Extravaganza, The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau suggests Town Green Park, Waterway Square and various points along The Woodlands Waterway ® for viewing.

“We’ve been diligent in working to identify the best fireworks viewing areas for this year’s Fireworks Extravaganza,” says Nick Wolda, president of The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Due to the construction of new office

towers in The Woodlands Town Center, it is becoming increasingly more difficult to fire the larger fireworks displays as in years past. The Woodlands Waterway has plenty of room for thousands of people to enjoy the lower proximity fireworks at a closer and clearer view without the obstruction of buildings. Above all, attendees should plan ahead to pick out their spot.”

Test shots will be conducted approximately every ten minutes from 8:40 p.m. to 9:10 p.m. in order to ensure individuals, particularly those along The Woodlands Waterway, have the best views for the 20-minute show.

Funding for the fireworks show is paid for by sponsors and from hotel occupancy tax by visitors and not property taxes paid by residents, Wolda notes.

The Woodlands Mall, just a short walk from the festival in Town Green Park, will open its large surface parking

areas for the event to provide event-goers with the opportunity to shop and dine in The Woodlands Mall prior to coming to the evening festival and then heading to the Waterway for the fireworks show. Furthermore, attendees can plan to park in the surface lots off of Timberloch Place and Grogan’s Mill which is the traditional parking plan for The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

Produced by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau, the 17th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival & Fireworks Extravaganza will feature live music, hot dog and watermelon eating contests, face painting, strolling performers, games, inflatables, arts and crafts, concessions, a beer tent and more from 6 to 10 p.m.

A complete schedule of activities, directions and parking can be found on the event’s website, www.redhotblue.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 home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands. The Woodlands is situated in a beautiful forest, and with dry weather conditions, one errant spark could severely damage our community. If you feel the holidays are not the same without a firecracker or two, please come out and enjoy The Woodlands Fourth of July Red, Hot & Blue Festival at Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway®. You will not be disappointed!

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Fire Department at 281-367-3444 or The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800.

Splash it's time to get cool! get more with a season pass

Beat the heat this summer with a Woodlands Township Pool Pass! A pool pass gives you access to all Township pools all season long. The Woodlands Township features 14 pools with a vast amount of amazing amenities for you and your family to enjoy:

• Enjoy the lazy river and giant dump bucket at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.

• Take a ride on the three-plume slide at Alden Bridge Pool.

• See who can get the biggest splash as you jump off the diving boards at Bear Branch Pool.

• Check out the sprayground pool at Harper’s Landing.

• Hop on the lily pads at Wendtwoods.

• Play on the water-covered play structure at Cranebrook Pool.

• Swim some laps at Creekwood.

• Hit the climbing wall at Sawmill.

Pool passes can be purchased at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, in person at any Township pool, or via phone, 281-210-3950. New members will be required to come to The Woodlands Township Recreation Center to take a pass photo and receive a card.

Up for a challenge this summer? See if your family can visit all 14 pools and capture your aquatic experience with a great photo or video! Think you have an amazing experience to share? Send your photo/video with a caption about your experience to recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

REGULAR POOL SEASON

through August 24, 2014

*Each pool is closed one day each week for cleaning and maintenance. See www.thewoodlandstownship-tx/pools for details.

Mon - Sat: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.*, Sun: 1 to 6 p.m. at the following pools:

R Alden Bridge R Bear Branch

R Cranebrook R Falconwing

R Harper’s Landing R Ridgewood

R Sawmill R Shadowbend

R Windvale R Wendtwoods

R Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

Mon - Sat: Noon to 6 p.m.*, Sun: 1 to 6 p.m. at the following pools:

R Creekwood

R Forestgate

R Lakeside

DAILY ADMISSION

Daily Pass (except Rob Fleming) $6

Daily Pass for Rob Fleming

48 inches and taller ............................... $10

Under 48 inches tall ................................ $8

Cash or check only for daily fees.

SEASON PASSES

Residents

0 - 2 years $6

3 - 64 years $40

65 years and older $15

Additional family pass (more than 4) .. $15

Non-Residents

0 - 2 years $30

3 years and older $120

No addt’l family discount or senior discount.

PUNCH CARDS

Resident Punch Card (6 visits) ............. $30

All pools except Rob Fleming

Resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits) $40

Non-Resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits) ........................... $55

Meagan McMillan on the lily pads at Wendtwoods Pool. Photo by Susan Schneider

Climbing wall at Sawmill Pool. Photo by Staff

Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

make the most of your water fun in The Woodlands

By Perry Frank

Think

you know all there is to know about the 14 pools in The Woodlands? Which pool is the deepest? Which pool has the most diving boards? Which pools are best for active lifestyles and which pools are better for small children? All these answers and more can be found in the 2014 edition of SPLASH! your one-source solution for all things that have to do with water fun in The Woodlands. This foldout pamphlet has detailed information on each pool and sprayground, complete with a map of each location.

Make the most of your summer by picking up your FREE copy of SPLASH! today. These can be picked up at each pool location, The Woodlands Township Recreation Center at 5310 Research Forest Drive and The Woodlands Township Town Hall at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

ROBFLEMING ALDEN BRIDGE LAKESIDE

ROBFLEMING ALDEN BRIDGE LAKESIDE

ROBFLEMING ALDEN BRIDGE LAKESIDE

H ARPERS LANDIN G POOL POOL POOL POOL

ROBFLEMING ALDEN BRIDGE LAKESIDE

POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL

SAWMILL FALCONWING SHADOWBEND

POOL POOL

RIDGEWOOD

WENDTWOODS BEAR BRANCH

WINDVALE

FORESTGATE CREEKWOOD CRANEBROOK

SPRAYGROUND

FORESTGATE CREEKWOOD

H ARPERS LANDIN G POOL POOL POOL POOL

RIDGEWOOD

POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL

SAWMILL FALCONWING SHADOWBEND

POOL POOL

WINDVALE

CRANEBROOK

WENDTWOODS BEAR BRANCH

SPRAYGROUND

H ARPERS LANDIN G POOL POOL POOL POOL

RIDGEWOOD

SAWMILL FALCONWING SHADOWBEND

POOL POOL

POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL

WINDVALE

WENDTWOODS BEAR BRANCH

FORESTGATE CREEKWOOD CRANEBROOK

SPRAYGROUND

FORESTGATE CREEKWOOD

H ARPERS LANDIN G POOL POOL POOL POOL

RIDGEWOOD

POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL POOL

SAWMILL FALCONWING SHADOWBEND

POOL POOL

WINDVALE

CRANEBROOK

WENDTWOODS BEAR BRANCH

SPRAYGROUND

at The Pavilion’s Annual Star-Spangled Salute

By Courtney Galle

Celebrate America’s birthday with a bang at the annual Star-Spangled Salute July 3, 2014. This free Independence Eve spectacular, which has been a tradition at The Pavilion for 24 years, features the Houston Symphony in a selection of patriotic favorites, led by Principal Pops Conductor Michael Krajewski. The concert is presented by The Woodlands Development Company. Tickets are not required. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

Wave your flag to the tune of traditional favorites including “Fanfare and Star-Spangled Banner,” “The Liberty Bell,” “The Cowboys Overture,” “Sweet Caroline,” “Service Medley,” and of course, Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with cannons blasting from the hill.

The Star-Spangled Salute kicks off at 6:30 p.m. with pre-concert activities for the whole family in the North and South Plazas. Enjoy patriotic music performed by The Woodlands Show Chorus and interact with Betsy Ross, Uncle Sam and a living Statue of Liberty, as well as Puffy Pine Cone. Also enjoy activities by The Pavilion Partners, Texas Children’s Hospital, Fidelity Investments, Century 21 Realty Partners, Renewal by Andersen, Woodforest National Bank, The Woodlands Development Company, Radio

Disney Road Crew and more. Guests can register to win Tommy Bahama’s “Best Seats in the House,” which includes dinner for four at the next arts event. Guests also receive American flags and other patriotic souvenirs at the event.

Don’t miss commemorating the birth of our nation by joining the symphony in this grandiose celebration. It’s an evening of old-fashioned family fun and classic Americana!

Guests are welcome to have a picnic in their seat or on the hill. Keep in mind that beverages cannot be brought into The Pavilion. Sitting on the hill? Lawn chairs also are provided free for this event!

Preferred parking is available in the on-site Town Center Garage, located along Six Pines Drive. Parking is $5 per vehicle for this and most performing arts events. Tickets for on-site parking can be purchased in advance at all Ticketmaster locations and The Pavilion Box Office. Guests also may park in any of the five free parking lots on the southwest side of The Pavilion. The free, color-coded lots are connected to The Pavilion by corresponding pathways with signs leading across The Waterway.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 2014 Performing Arts Season is presented by The Woodlands

Development Company and sponsored by Audi of America, official automobile of The Pavilion, Huntsman Corporation, The Pavilion Partners, The Wortham Foundation and Texas Children’s Hospital. The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of The Woodlands Township that is generated by the Event Admissions Tax for its performing arts and educational outreach programs.

If you would like more information about The Pavilion, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org or look for The Pavilion on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+ and Blogger. Or download The Pavilion’s iOS or Android app.

Celebrating its 25th Season in 2014, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, presented by Huntsman, is part of The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands, a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides diverse, highquality performing arts events for the entertainment and enrichment of a broad regional audience. Through numerous educational and community outreach programs, The Center is a catalyst for attracting new audiences to the performing arts and building strong ties between the arts and educational institutions.

Photo courtesy of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Have a cord and a car charger for your cell phone standing by in case of a power failure.

Old fashioned phones with a cord connecting the handset to the base will work even in a power outage. Make sure you have at least one phone with a cord in your home in case of a power outage.

Keep a car charger for your cell phone in your vehicle. If the power is out in your home, you can still charge your cell phone in your car.

If you don’t have a landline and you use a cell phone as your home phone, 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 when a phone call doesn’t.

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 all

The goal for this month is to 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 email, 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 email will not work either.

work, school, and daycare phone numbers, if applicable. A wallet-size form to write down this information can be found at www.ready.gov. Post the communication plan by a phone in your home, and include it in your go bag as well.

OUTSIDE THE AREA CONTACT

Choose someone outside of the local calling area to be your “outside the area” contact. Make sure all family members carry this phone number with them. If something happens when your family is not together and you are not able to reach each other, each family member 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 www.safeandwell.org now and show family members how it works. Make the website address part of the emergency information every family member carries.

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.

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

• Name the contact ICE.

• Enter all phone numbers for the person(s) you would like to have notified in a medical emergency.

july

Wedelia Texana, like a true Texas native, takes the heat, forming a small rounded shrub when planted in a sunny, well-drained bed. Rainfall typically provides all the water the plant needs once it is established.

Wednesday, July 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

5:30 p.m.

281-210-3973

Thursday, July 3

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Houston Symphony presents Star-Spangled Salute

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

FREE event

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. See page 12.

www.woodlandscenter.org

Friday, July 4

Independence Day Township offices closed No trash and recycling pickup

Fourth of July Parade Market Street

9 a.m.

www.4thofjuly.org

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

Concert in the Park— New location this year! Waterway Square

5:30 p.m.

KAOS and the Spicolis 281-210-3800

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Town Green Park and The Woodlands Waterway®

6 to 10 p.m.

For more information, visit www.redhotblue.org or call 281-363-2447.

Saturday, July 5

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

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

Thursday, July 10

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Good Neighbor Day at Forestgate Pool

7505 S. Forestgate Drive 10:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Ad Hoc Transportation Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 2 p.m. 281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Photo by Lucinda Valdes

Saturday, July 12

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

Drip Irrigation and Rainwater Harvesting Class

8203 Millenium Forest Drive

9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Free program, registration is required!

Good Neighbor Day at Fire Station #3

1522 Sawdust Road

10:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Good Neighbor Day at Central Fire Station

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

1 p.m.

281-210-3800

Dive-in Movie

A Turtle’s Tale: Sammy’s Adventure Cranebrook Pool, 11800 Cranebrook Drive

8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800.

Admission is $5 per person.

Tuesday, July 15

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Wednesday, July 16

Good Neighbor Day at Harper’s Landing Pool

2 Blair Bridge Drive 10:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Development Standards Committee Meeting

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

281-210-3973

The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Regular Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, July 17

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-281-3800

Good Neighbor Day at Wendtwoods Pool

8950 Creekside Green Drive

10:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, July 18

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 19

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 21

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 22

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #1

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8:30 a.m.

281-281-3800

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 23

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m.

281-281-3800

Thursday, July 24

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #2 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8:30 a.m.

281-281-3800

Friday, July 25

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Workshop #3 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8:30 a.m.

281-281-3800

continued on page 23

Holiday Garbage Collection

There will be no pick-up on Independence Day (Friday, July 4, 2014). Neighborhoods that usually receive collection on Friday 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 7, 2014. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

Happy 4th of July from Alden Bridge! Come out and wave to our Alden Bridge entry in the big parade on July 4, 2014! There’s a lot to do in The Woodlands this holiday, so take advantage of all the fun-filled activities!

This month’s Residents’ Meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Look for news of our speaker in our monthly email newsletter. All residents are encouraged to attend and bring your questions and concerns!

Don’t forget that Alden Bridge will participate in the villages’ baseball game outing on Friday evening, August 29. If you’d like to join us on our bus, there may be some tickets remaining, so contact me at dbell7246@aol.com. Tickets are $22 each and the price covers the game and the bus trip. The Astros will play the Texas Rangers 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. The winning household receives a gift from Lowe’s, goodies from Chick-fil-A, tickets to a performance at the Pavilion, and a yard sign recognizing their hard work. Our last winners were the Kenedys

of E. Sienna Place, and we’ll award the next winning yard on August 1, 2014.

We continue to publish our monthly electronic village newsletter. To join our subscriber list of over 800 households, please send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org. Your email address will never be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village.

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

Last month we featured the annual Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Pool Party. This month we are looking forward to the Fourth of July Parade. Each year we award several scholarships to area high school seniors and we hope they will be able to participate with us in the Parade. Our winners this year include Anna Harris, graduating from College Park High School and Michaela McDougald from The Woodlands High School. Anna will be attending Sam Houston State University where she will major in Nursing. It is clear Anna has worked toward this goal since she has been in honors classes in subjects such as biology, chemistry, anatomy/

physiology, algebra and calculus. Anna has also been active in school serving on the student council for four years, the Key Club, and she was the baseball stats girl. In addition to being a Camp Cavalier counselor she also worked as a cashier at a produce market in Seattle and as a host/ server in a restaurant.

Michaela also has a passion for the medical field and is particularly interested in biomedicine. Through four years in high school she has participated in honors classes with an emphasis on biology, chemistry, and math. In her freshman and sophomore years, Michaela was a member of the volleyball team and in her last three years was a member of the badminton club. A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, she was also a member of the Rotary Interact Club and assisted with numerous community support activities. We wish Michaela well at UT this fall.

We are including a request related to the budget for The Woodlands Township. The Township has asked the village associations to provide suggestions for services, programs, capital improvements or other matters by July 1. Cochran’s Crossing will have prepared items for the budget by that date. However if you have anything you want to be sure is on the budget agenda please send an email to Stuart Schroeder, the Association President at aggiebob@consolidated.net and he may be able to get your request on the list to be considered. There will be budget workshops in July and public hearings in August.

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association has also been asked to let our members know the Spring Flea Market will now be known as “The Woodlands Flea Market and Garage Sale.” That emphasis on Garage Sale needs to be

Michaela McDougald

Anna

Harris

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

sign that everyone will be encouraged to stop by and show support and meet the board members.

The Red, Hot & Blue Fireworks display will be fantastic as usual. We truly live in a community that allows us to enjoy an amazing show. The only thing that will stop the fireworks display would be if there is a fire danger. Our weekly Villager newspaper will keep us informed of the status and time of the fireworks.

MEETING INFORMATION

included since that was the original intent of the event. More information can be found at www.woodlandsfleamarket.org.

At the association’s annual meeting, Chris Nunes, director of Parks and Recreation, provided an update on the Shadowbend Park renovation. As of May the project was 50 percent complete, and it will easily be ready for the annual Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Fall Festival in October.

Except December, Cochran’s Crossing Village Association board meetings are held at 7 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Township meeting rooms. All residents are invited to attend.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

Hello College Park residents and to all of our residents of The Woodlands! Happy summer and we hope you are all enjoying your families and friends, and experiencing all of the amenities of The Woodlands. The weather allows us to be outside and enjoying the sunshine. It is very extreme sunshine, so please wear your sunscreen at all times.

The Fourth of July parade is the first event of the month! The parade route is on The Woodlands Township website, where it will also have the starting time of the parade. Our village of College Park will not be represented with a float this year in the parade. The College Park board members voted on representing our village this year with a tent with a College Park

We hope you are all enjoying all of our hard working students on vacation. Summer is our prime time to take that family on vacation and relax. Please don’t forget the wonderful concerts at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Wow, what a lineup of performers that come to The Woodlands!

In closing, our village has a monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at The Woodlands Township building. We still are encouraging our residents to try to attend at least one meeting a quarter, or year, to participate in what is happening in our village. We are always in need of volunteers for our events that are happening all year long. The College Park board members would love to have new people helping with the different events! Our village board members are very professional and always striving to enhance College Park. Events are discussed and planned at our monthly meetings, and also resident concerns. Please come and participate.

We will be creating a short survey that will ask for your important feedback on concerns in our village. Please refer to our College Park website in the coming months. Stay cool!

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Grogan’s Mill

With construction on Grogan’s Mill Road between Research Forest and South Millbend now complete, it is now easier to

continued on page 20

ALDEN BRIDGE

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! Website www.aldenbridge.org

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

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

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

COLLEGE PARK

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

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

CREEKSIDE PARK

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

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Nancy Becker at 832-559-7004.

GROGAN’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!

Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Contact your program specialist at 281-210-3887.

INDIAN SPRINGS

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!

Website www.indianspringsvillage.com

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

*No meeting in July this year.

PANTHER CREEK

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!

Website www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

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

STERLING RIDGE

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!

Website www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or contact Village Association President Anthony Fasone at sr_twa@hotmail.com.

VILLAGE NEWS continued

get to the Farmers’ Market. We are having record number of vendors (up to 50 on some weekends), giving you more choices for fresh, organic farm produce and other Texas-made products. Check our website or newsletter for your favorite vendors and

other info about special events. If you don’t receive our weekly Farmers’ Market e-blast, sign up at www.grogansmillvillage.com under the Farmers’ Market tab.

June’s Yard of the Month Award goes to Ken and Wendy Corin, who live in Grogan’s Point. Ken designed and rebuilt the yard after it was devastated by the drought of 2011. There is still time for you (don’t be bashful) or a neighbor to be considered for a Yard of the Month award. Let any village board member know (see our website). It’s worth a $50 gift card at Randalls, plus you get to proudly display the Yard of the Month sign for 30 days.

A bench with a plaque honoring the late George Van Horn, former president of the Grogan’s Mill Village Association, should be in place on the Timberwagon cul-de-sac island by the time you read this. George and his wife, Amy, resided in the Timberwagon neighborhood. The bench was donated by the Grogan’s Mill Village Association in tribute to George’s many community contributions.

Thanks to community support of the Farmers’ Market, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association is pleased to announce the award of three $1,000 scholarships to college-bound students: Madison McDonald, Jade Smith and Jimena Gamboa Bonilla, all recent graduates of The Woodlands College Park High School. Madison, an 18-year resident of Grogan’s Mill, will be attending Texas Tech and pursuing a degree in business. Jade Smith

will be going to Texas Women’s University to study nursing. She has lived in our village for two years. Jimena Gamboa will be attending UT Austin to study business and has been a resident in our village for nine years. We offer our congratulations and wish each young lady success in their academic endeavors.

All three award winners come from single parent homes and demonstrated financial need, excellent efforts to stay involved in school and community, very good grades, and earned top recommendations from school counselors. Our Scholarship Committee, chaired by Sara Bissig, faced a very difficult decision among the 11 great applicants.

There is an opening for at least one director’s position on the Grogan’s Mill Village Association Board. If you want to become more involved in your community, let any one of the Board members know (on our website). You will have the opportunity to make a positive community contribution.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

The Indian Springs Village Association wishes everyone a happy and safe Fourth of July. We hope to see you out at the South County Fourth of July Parade and the Red, Hot & Blue Festival. This year’s parade theme is “The Lone Star: The Brightest of Them All.” The parade will begin at 9 a.m. near The Woodlands

United Methodist Church and will travel a 1.3-mile route around the Town Center/ Market Street area.

Pictured below is Lucy Fang, Yarlini Vipulanandan, Annie Huet, Shen Yoon and Clarke Cagle on the award-winning Indian Springs Village Association float from 2013. Under the master craftsmanship of Indian Springs resident and board member Richard Stromatt, Indian Springs built a float to honor our very own “Parade of Stars” – our 2013 Indian Springs Community Service Scholarship recipients.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

Last month, residents of Panther Creek started their summer fun with the annual old-fashioned neighborhood Flag Day picnic at Ridgewood Park with free hot dogs, hamburgers, swimming, kids’ events, and the ever-popular Kona Ice Wagon. Children and adults also recently enjoyed a “Good Neighbor Day” at The Woodlands Fire Station #8 on Gosling Road.

This month the opportunities roll on to have fun and learn more about The Woodlands. July starts off with the Fourth of July Parade. On Friday, August 29, 2014, join your neighbors on a luxury custom coach ride to Houston to see the Astros beat the Texas Rangers. The chauffeured ride to and from the ball park, including admission to the game, is only $22 per person. Call Mary Bootz at 281-296-9960 to reserve your tickets.

Ken and Wendy Corin with Bob Leilich

Photo by Amy LeCocq

Our semi-annual Woodlands Flea Market and Garage Sale will be held again this fall. It is a wonderful Woodlands event, whether you’re unloading that extra stuff cluttering up the house or if you love to shop for unusual items at bargain prices. Get more details at www.WoodlandsFleaMarket.org.

The Woodlands really is your hometown. There are so many ways to participate. If your street has not already held a Good Neighbor Day, this summer would be a great time to have one. Visit with your new and old neighbors and get information on water conservation, recycling, insect control and much more. Also meet your area’s sheriff deputies and firemen. Contact your Neighborhood Watch representative to schedule one.

If you do not know your Neighborhood Watch coordinator, now is a good time to meet them. You can find them by calling the Township at 281-210-3800. If your street doesn’t have one, maybe you could volunteer! Many of your neighbors have shared their favorite recipes in a 30th anniversary Woodlands Watch cookbook. Copies may be available when you join with your neighbors at your local National Night Out Celebration. Keep checking The Woodlands Community Magazine and www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org for details.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

The Sterling Ridge Village Association encourages all of its residents to get involved. Our mission statement:

To serve the interests and welfare of the Village.

To enhance the recreation and quality of life within the Village.

To promote unity and fellowship among residents.

To foster opportunities for residents to engage in activities.

To create awareness and to assist in resolving issues impacting the Village.

The 7th Annual Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival will be September 13, 2014. Neighborhood BBQ teams camp out and cook at Cranebrook Park overnight on

Friday, September 12, and square off on Saturday for judging of Best Brisket, Ribs, Pulled Pork, and Beans. We are planning pony rides, face painting, inflatables/bounce houses, hot dogs, music, and BBQ samples – and it’s all free to the residents! Any resident of Sterling Ridge can organize a team. If you would like to join in the fun, enter a cooking team or participate as a sponsor, please contact Sue Young at texastwirlers@yahoo.com.

The Woodlands Fire Department has achieved the distinguished ISO#1 rating. Check with your insurance company as this may translate into saving on your homeowner’s insurance.

We have an app for that! To download, scan this QR Code or go to

iTunes or the Android store and search for “Sterling Ridge The Woodlands.”

Our eye-catching monthly newsletter provides important local information. If you are interested in subscribing please email srva_ information@sterling-ridge.org. Visit our official Facebook page for weekly and daily happenings within our community www.facebook.com/ sterlingridge.thewoodlands and our official website www.sterling-ridge. com. Hope to see you at the next meeting on July 28, 2014, at The Woodlands Township office, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. at 7 p.m.

Submitted by Natalia Arjona

By Susan Martin

The Woodlands has many public safety resources, and The Woodlands Watch can bring these resources right to your neighborhood! The Woodlands Watch turns 30 in 2014. Three decades after its inception, the practices of The Woodlands Watch are still based on the same concepts:

• Neighbor knowing neighbor is the first step in crime prevention.

• The community must maintain a strong working relationship with local law enforcement.

These concepts are incorporated in The Woodlands Watch through a strong partnership between The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services, Public Safety Personnel and the residents of The Woodlands. Through this partnership and The Woodlands Watch, events such as Good Neighbor Days and Watch Meetings are offered. At these events residents can learn fundamental concepts of crime prevention:

• Know who your neighbors are.

• Secure your home and personal property.

• How to report suspicious activity.

If you choose to host a Watch meeting or Good Neighbor Day, you could bring various public safety agencies to your neighborhood. These meetings generally target a specific street or area of streets and are a great way for neighbors to get to know each other!

Introduce Your Neighborhood to PUBLIC SAFETY

WATCH MEETING: A structured neighborhood gathering that introduces the roles of public safety agencies in our community, before emergencies occur. Representatives from local law enforcement, The Woodlands Fire Department, and the Township Neighborhood Services participate. Residents learn how to secure their home and about resources available for crime prevention. This event can take place in a neighborhood park as well.

GOOD NEIGHBOR DAY: A less structured meeting where neighbors can visit with representatives from local law enforcement, The Woodlands Fire Department and Neighborhood Services. They can register bicycles, fingerprint children, receive crime prevention tips, 9-1-1 emergency information and learn more about their community. To participate in this program, contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Good Neighbor Days at The Woodlands Fire Stations

Stop, drop and roll on in to your local fire station and meet the firefighters who work to keep you safe. Don’t miss this opportunity to get an up-close look at fire apparatus, rescue units and the station where it all happens. Children can meet the friendly firefighters, learn about fire safety, smoke alarms, and 9-1-1 communications. Law enforcement will also be on hand to meet with residents. Also, get valuable crime prevention and emergency preparedness information from a Neighborhood Services Program Specialist. Mark your calendars and don’t miss the fun! Light refreshments will be provided by H-E-B.

July 12, 2014 Station 3 10 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

July 12, 2014 Station 1 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

July 26, 2014 Station 4 10 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

July 26, 2014 Station 7 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

August 2, 2014 Station 6 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Sgt. Jimenez, Montgomery County Sherriff’s Office, swears in his new deputies.

Photos by John Osborne

Station 1 (Central Station)

CALENDAR

continued from page 17

Saturday, July 26

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Good Neighbor Day at Fire Station #4

7900 Bay Branch Road

10 a.m.

281-210-3800

Good Neighbor Day at Fire Station #7

26722 Kuykendahl Road

1 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, July 28

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

Budget Workshop #4

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8:30 a.m.

281-281-3800

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Tuesday, July 29

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.

Clarification:

Last month’s photo of the elderberry plant should have been credited to Sally and Andy Wasowski courtesy of Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

wjpa.org

HURRICANE SEASON

Is Your Family Prepared?

Hurricane season is here, and The Woodlands Township Board of Directors urges all residents to be prepared by planning what to do if disaster strikes. Don’t be complacent! During a disaster you may not have access to electricity, water, ice, pharmacies, food, fuel, banks/ATM, television, Internet, cell phones and convenience stores. During an emergency, for information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST 99.7 FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.

• Fully redundant power

• Locally owned and operated

• North Houston and Conroe coverage area

• Local news, weather and traffic

• Listen live daily at 99.7 FM or online at kstarcountry.com.

You may also stay informed through The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Sign up for emergency alerts, Talk of the Township eNewsletter, news releases and WoodlandsAlert at the Township site. In the event that all communications and power fail, The Woodlands Fire Department serves as an emergency communications resource. You can find out more about The Woodlands Fire Department and where the stations are located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/firedepartment.

Assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need to get by in one place.

Put your emergency supply kit

Recommended supplies to include are:

• 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.

DID YOU KNOW The Woodlands Township has 13 approved USTA Certified Tennis Pros who instruct tennis through The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy? All of the Township’s instructors have been certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association and most instructors have been teaching with the Township for more than five years. 4,458 people took a tennis class in 2013, of which 3,256 were children and 1,202 were adults. The Township offered 17 tennis tournaments in 2013 and will offer more than that this

TENNIS

A message from The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department

Whether you’re a novice or a tennis whiz, The Woodlands Township Tennis Academy has a tennis program for you!

year. These tournaments are for both adults and children alike. The Woodlands Township also offers weekly tennis play days and monthly tennis mixers for adults to just come play for fun on the weekends. Group, private and semi-private lessons are also available at multiple times and days for all skill levels and ages.

DID YOU KNOW the Township offers at least 50 children’s tennis classes and at least 15 adult classes per month for beginners to advanced players? These classes are offered in the mornings, after school and in the evenings for all ages.

DID YOU KNOW there are 27 parks in The Woodlands with tennis courts and restrooms. That’s a total of 75 tennis courts, and all are available from dawn to dusk for reservations or free play! For those interested in doubles play, ladder leagues for adults are available for women’s doubles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles. The Woodlands Township also provides the facilities used for four large North Houston leagues, including the Houston Ladies Tennis Association (HLTA), Jack Rabbit, USTA, and North Country.

Defined Irrigation Schedule Still in Effect

By Bob Dailey

Water ambassadors from The Woodlands Joint Powers agency are in neighborhoods helping people answer Defined Irrigation Schedule questions and other irrigation needs. The Defined Irrigation Schedule, instituted in January, 2013, is still in effect in The Woodlands, according to James M. Stinson, P.E., general manager of The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, which serves 11 of municipal utility districts (MUDs) in The Woodlands. The schedule requires that watering lawns and landscapes from in-ground irrigation is restricted to two specific days a week.

Addresses ending in ODD numbers may water on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Addresses ending in EVEN numbers may water on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Hoses, hose end sprinklers, soaker hoses and drip irrigation systems are exempt from the Defined Irrigation Schedule.

“We are under mandate to reduce our groundwater (aquifer) usage by 30 percent,” he said. Noting that the new pipeline bringing treated water from Lake Conroe to The Woodlands, Conroe, Oak Ridge North and other areas will supplement water being taken from the aquifer, “we will still be at net zero gain,” he pointed out. “This has severely reduced our groundwater supply and the aquifers we depend on for drinking water are declining at an alarming rate. More water is being taken from the aquifers than can be replenished by natural recharge,” he noted.

“This does not mean that we can somehow turn off the tap from Lake Conroe and have enough water. He also pointed out that the Defined Irrigation Schedule is still in effect. Second, third and fourth notices may incur surcharges attached to water bills. ($50 for second notice, $100 for third notice and $200 for fourth and subsequent notices.)

If your address ends in an ODD number:

8 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday

8 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday

If your address ends in an EVEN number:

8 p.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday

8 p.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday

EXPLORE NATURE

By Perry Frank

Whatbetter way to explore the serene beauty of The Woodlands than in a lightweight, comfortable kayak? By paddling at your own speed and your own schedule, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and see things you just don’t see from a car or on a hike.

The Riva Row Boat House has just added new kayaks to the fleet, and both single and tandem kayaks are available for rental. The single kayaks are $15 and the tandems are $20 for the first hour each. Each additional hour is only $5, and this price includes life vests and paddles.

Private parties and group activities are also available. These can be good for relay races, communication drills, scavenger hunts, team building and more. For those just looking for a relaxing and fun paddle around nature, the Riva Row Boat House is a great place to start.

Dog lovers also should know that The Woodlands Dog Park Club has donated dog life vests for dogs of all sizes, and dogs ride along at no additional charge.

For more information on the Riva Row Boat House, call 281-210-3965 or email boathouse@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Photos by Susan Schneider

Sign up for TALK OF THE TOWNSHIP eNewsletter

You are invited to sign up for The Woodlands Township’s new email newsletter, Talk of the Township. The frequent electronic newsletter is scheduled to publish each week. It will include several items of interest regarding The Woodlands Township, such as events, board meetings and timely tips.

www.teethforkidz.com

By subscribing to the Talk of the Township, visitors and residents have the opportunity to stay up to date on all the latest information, stay involved in the community and take advantage of all The Woodlands has to offer.

Those interested in subscribing simply go to The Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/list and enter an email address for delivery. Be sure to choose the html option if your device permits. Emergency notifications, press releases and bid postings can also be subscribed to on this page. Subscribers will receive a confirmation email and must click the link within the email in order to activate the subscription.

New subscribers may also use the E-news signup link, located on the left side of the Township website home page.

www.woodlandsruggallery.com

Active on the Pathways

The Woodlands Township’s Adopt-a-Path stewards are keeping The Woodlands beautiful!

TEAM HANS: Residents near Sand Pebble in Indian Springs adopted a pathway to remember Hans, their nine-year-old neighbor who lost his battle with cancer in September 2012. Photo by Carmen Smiley

Adopt-a-Path stewards who filed an activity report January - April 2014

33 groups

+ 554 volunteer hours

+ 3,184 gallons of trash

1,930 pounds (per Keep America Beautiful one 33-gallon bag is estimated to weigh 20 pounds)

15.8 cubic yards of trash (1 cubic yard=202 gallons)

The equivalent of 33 of our curbside trash carts.

ALDEN BRIDGE Cub Scout Pack 886, Cub Scout Pack 889, McCanns, Pierce McBride for Woodlands Christian Academy, St. Anne’s Society, St. Anthony of Padua NJHS, Steve and Judy Easton

COCHRAN’S CROSSING Cochran’s Crossing Crew, Girl Scout Troop 11351, Kimmel Family, LSC-Montgomery Mavericks, Robert and Nancy Rodd, Roger Howard, Woodlands Landscaping, Wyatt Hall for Woodlands Christian Academy

COLLEGE PARK Sohn-Yim Family

GROGAN’S MILL American Legion Post #305, Caveney Family, Gary Jackson

INDIAN SPRINGS Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III, Cosculluela Family, Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK Grimes-Hanlin Family, Klein Family, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, National Charity Round Table, Rowing Club of The Woodlands, Sally K Ride Elementary

STERLING RIDGE Bell Family, Charles and Donna Moseley, Devitt Family, Slocum Family

RESEARCH FOREST Houston Advanced Research Center

    

  

   