July 2019

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

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

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

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

message

from the woodlands township board of directors

Nowthat summer days have arrived, there is endless fun to be had in The Woodlands. We kick off the month with a Fourth of July celebration that includes the Star-Spangled Salute at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on July 3, 2019, the annual South County Fourth of July Parade, Splash Day at Township pools and the Red, Hot and Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza at multiple parks and locations throughout The Woodlands, all on July 4. For the complete lineup and schedule of events, please see the article on page 6.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors wishes you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July.

See in case you missed it on page 5

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Brian Boniface Director

John McMullan Vice Chairman

Bruce Rieser Director

No. 4

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary

No. 6

Carol Stromatt Director Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer

No. 3

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 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

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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

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

www.championsprinting.com

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

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

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently recognized The Woodlands Youth Rugby Club for winning the Rugby Texas Division 1 High School Boys State Championship.

The team scored 13 wins, one loss and one tie for their overall 2019 record with an average of 44 points scored per match. The team was undefeated in the Rugby Texas Cup Competition, won the High School Division 1 State Title, and also won the Rugby Texas South Conference with a record of six wins and zero losses. The team is coached by Head Coach Frank Rizzo, coaches Chris Gruba, Jason Holdsworth and Justin King.

The Board proclaimed June 7, 2019, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in The Woodlands.

Daily, 100 Americans are killed by gun violence and there are nearly 13,000 gun homicides annually. The protection of public safety is the highest priority of local law enforcement and the Township. The Township is committed to raising awareness about gun violence and responsible gun ownership, and honoring the lives of victims and survivors.

The Board declared the month of July as Parks and Recreation Month in The Woodlands.

The Woodlands is home to 140 parks, 14 pools, 220+ miles of pathways, countless greenbelts, two recreation centers, two boat houses and an aerial adventure course. The Township Parks and Recreation Department hosts numerous programs, races, festivals and events throughout each year, offering residents myriad opportunities to come together for leisure and sport. The Township encourages all residents to enjoy the many experiences available via the natural and physical environment of The Woodlands.

The Township Board of Directors recognized The Woodlands Youth Rugby Club for their undefeated season, State Title and overall victory in the Texas South Conference.

The newly opened Texas TreeVentures adventure course in the Village of Creekside Park is a perfect illustration of Parks and Recreation programming and activities in The Woodlands.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors proclaimed June 7, 2019, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

Thursday, July 4, 2019 • 6 p.m.

at the Red, Hot and Blue Festival

By Liz Aguirre

Celebrate freedom in The Woodlands with great food, live entertainment, children’s activities and family fun at multiple parks around The Woodlands at the annual Red, Hot and Blue Festival! Each event culminates with fireworks displays at approximately 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. In addition to the Red, Hot and Blue Festival, residents are invited to enjoy a number of other activities in celebration of the Fourth of July!

STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE AT THE PAVILION

On Wednesday, July 3, 2019, the annual Star-Spangled Salute free concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion will feature the Houston Symphony performing a selection of patriotic favorites.

PARADE

Enjoy The Woodlands' annual Fourth of July Parade, beginning at 9 a.m. in the Market Street area. For more information on the parade, please visit www.4thofjuly.org.

SPLASH DAY

Cool off at one of the Township’s community pools on July 4, 2019 from noon to 4 p.m. with free refreshments while supplies last. The lifeguards will select a theme for each pool. All community pools will be free to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Fireworks can be seen at the following locations:

TOWN GREEN PARK Activities include strolling entertainers, face painters, balloon artists, inflatables, entertainment on multiple stages, a variety of food vendors and a kids’ zone featuring crafts and other family-fun games. Main Stage: Cap City Band (Cover Band) Independence Stage: The Fantastics (Variety)

HUGHES LANDING Activities include live music: The Kelley Peters Band (Classic Pop Vocals)

WATERWAY SQUARE Activities include face painting, balloon artists, concessions, live music from Willow Creek Junction (Country) and the Fourth of July Parade Awards at 7 p.m.

ROB FLEMING PARK Activities include face painting, food trucks and live music: Keeton Coffman (Indie)

NORTHSHORE PARK Activities include face painting, food trucks and live music: Cold Shot (Variety)

The Woodlands Township will host a spectacular fireworks show at each Red, Hot and Blue location, weather permitting. Enjoy the sounds of freedom with family and friends at Red, Hot and Blue on Thursday, July 4, 2019.

Photos by Derrick Bryant

to

INCORPORATION 101 STEP 3: ROAD CONDITION ANALYSIS

In most cities, the maintenance of public streets is the responsibility of the city. Currently, public streets in The Woodlands are maintained by the county and Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT). Upon incorporation, public streets in The Woodlands would become the responsibility of the new city to maintain, with the exception of State Highway 242.

START HERE

Current findings of the study show that road conditions in The Woodlands

are excellent. Any known deficiencies would be addressed during the first few years following incorporation. Major investments in road replacement for current roads will not occur for 50 to 60 years. Most similar communities do not reserve funds to cover the full cost of future road replacement or maintenance, but fund these projects through bonding at the time of replacement. While no decision has been made, and the study is ongoing, The Woodlands Township

Board of Directors will continue to study the issue of road conditions and future maintenance costs.

Step 4 is the review of MUD water, sewer and drainage operations to determine if MUDs will become part of the city in the event of incorporation. Watch for details next month, or visit www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com for the latest information on The Woodlands Township’s Incorporation Planning Study.

Wi th the pa ss age of Le gislat ion in 2017, The Woodlands To wn ship Board has the authorit y to place incorpor at ion on an elec tion ballot for cons ider at ion by the vo ters Li st ed below are the st ep s that the To wn ship Board will cons ider pr ior to placing in corpor at ion on the ballot . 1

Zoning vs . C ovenants

2

Comple te law enforc ement stud y

I N

Should the Township incorporate, additional services may include the following:

• Law enforcement serv ices

• Road maintenance

• Road constructi on

• Tr af fic management

• Water sewer stor m dr ainage

• Zoning

• Planning and development se rv ices

• Municipal cour t serv ices

7

Comple te ta x rate stud y / show impact on residen ts

3

Comple te road condition anal ysis and find how much ro ad ways in the city cost to replac e and main tain

4

Review MUD water, sewer and drainage operations/ will MUDs become part of city

5

Public forum for To wn ship residen ts

6

Comple te financial anal ysis and estimate cost of serv ic es for city oper at ions

Incorporation

If approved by voters , Township become s a general law city

This monthly series explores the ongoing issue of incorporating The Woodlands, and the work that The Woodlands Township is currently conducting to determine if an incorporation election will be held. Whether or not The Woodlands incorporates will ultimately rest in the hands of The Woodlands voters, and so the Township is taking this time to study costs, needs, opportunities and deterrents. The Incorporation 101 series will explain the study in easy-to-understand language. For those desiring more in-depth information, please visit www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com, where there are numerous reports and presentations posted, along with FAQs. The Incorporation 101 series follows the Steps to Incorporation graphic (shown here and online).

10

If called by Board, residen ts will vote on incorpor at ion and a

By TJ Shannon

OFFER SUMMER FUN

It’snot too late to make your summer great by enrolling in Sunny Dayz Camp with The Woodlands Township. Sunny Dayz is open to campers from ages 6 to 12 years old. Campers enjoy a variety of activities including trips to the Township pools, field trips to destinations like Obstacle Warrior Kids and Minute Maid Park, theme days and more.

To view daily camp calendars and register for any Sunny Dayz Camp, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/sunnydayz. More information can also be found in the Summer 2019 Action Guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/actionguide.

SUMMER CAMP Explorers 6 – 8 years; Adventurers 9 – 12 years

WHERE: The Recreation Center at Bear Branch, 5310 Research Forest Drive; The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

TIME: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

WHEN: Begins Monday, June 3, 2019

COST: $200 weekly; $50 daily; $125 three-day option

TEEN CAMP 13 – 15 years

In addition to Sunny Dayz Camp, the Township also offers Teen Camp for teens from ages 13 to 15 years old. Teen Campers will take weekly field trips including three trips to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, a ball game at Minute Maid Park and a trip to Emergent VR Encounter. Teen Campers will also enjoy the new aerial adventure course, Texas TreeVentures, along with a variety of engaging activities such as archery, hiking, kayaking, games, crafts, special activities and more! Please Note: Enrollment of fewer than five campers may result in teen camp combining with the 9- to 12-year-old group. Teen Camp may also attend field trips with Sunny Dayz Camp.

WHERE: The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

WHEN: Begins Monday, June 3, 2019

COST: $200 weekly; $50 daily; $125 three-day option

www.genesisdoctors.com

Passionflower

By Ann Hall

With beautiful intricate three-inch pink, purple or blue flowers, the passionflower vine is a breathtaking focal point for the home garden.

This vine’s beautiful dark green foliage with three-lobed leaves is nearly as showy as the blossoms. Growing 30 feet or more in a single season, this perennial herbaceous vine is such a vigorous climber that it requires a trellis or fence for support.

Passionflower ( passiflora incarnata) is a Texas native that can be found along roadsides, prairies, plains, meadows, pastures and the edges of woodlands, thriving in full sun to part shade. In the

garden, passionflower prefers partial shade. It is tolerant to cold, capable of surviving most south Texas winters. Preferable soil for passionflower includes rich, non-saline clay, loam and sandy soil. Even though the plant prefers rich soil, supplementing with light organic fertilizer will support the plant’s season-long vigorous growth habit. Be careful not to overfertilize or excessive amounts of foliage will form and production of the beautiful

flowers will diminish. Passionflower can tolerate dry to moist soil but will likely develop root rot in poor drainage.

In the home landscape, passionflower will climb arbors, trellises, walls or columns. Little maintenance is required following the initial growing season when pinching the plant back encourages bushiness. Passionflower will spread by producing root suckers. If the plant becomes too aggressive, it may be pruned during winter when it is not actively growing. When pruning, make certain to thoroughly disinfect your pruners before use since this vine is susceptible to fungal disease. Propagation of passionflower may be accomplished by taking cuttings or planting seeds.

Passionflower is a stunning addition to any home garden and attracts a wide range of pollinators and birds.

Not surprisingly, this showy vine is highly attractive to wildlife. Birds are drawn to the vibrant orange-yellow fruit. The fruit is the source of the common name for passionflower which is maypop, as the hollow fruit produces a popping noise when it’s crushed. Major pollinators for passionflower include carpenter bees and other similar large-bodied bees.

Many butterflies take advantage of passionflower’s nectar while several species, the gulf fritillary, variegated fritillary and zebra longwing utilize the plant as a host for their caterpillars. The orange spiny larvae of the gulf fritillary feed on all parts of the plant including the beautiful blossoms. It can be challenging to locate the gulf fritillary pupae as their coloration and shape resemble a dead leaf. Larvae of the zebra longwing are easy to identify with their white bodies and stunning black spines while the larvae of the variegated fritillary are rusty brown and black striped with smaller black spines. Although any of these larvae may defoliate the passionflower vine, its vigorous growth habit will soon restore the foliage and flowers. With beautiful butterflies emerging from the pupae, the reward for growing passionflower in the home garden is remarkable.

Photo by James Birdwell

Hurricane Season Is Underway…

Stay Informed with Township Communication Tools

By Shelby Doerries and Adriana McGee

Choose Your Preferred Communication Method(s)

When subscribing to Township communications, you can choose to be notified through email, text messages or both. You can sign up for the weekly Talk of The Township eNewsletter, communitywide emergency alerts, press releases and transit alerts. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme.

Follow Us on Social Media

Social media was a critical communication tool used before, during and after Hurricane Harvey two years ago. Follow the official Township Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Nextdoor accounts for important updates, including Facebook Live videos. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed.

Connect with Us on Facebook

Please visit www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship, www.facebook.com/townshipparksandrec, www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

“Like” our Facebook page(s), click the “Following” button, and select “See First” in your newsfeed.

Follow Us on Twitter

For Township updates: @TheTownshipTX

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

Follow Us on Instagram

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

Join Us on NextDoor

NextDoor is a free private social network for your neighborhood community. Sign up at nextdoor.com to receive information from The Woodlands Township and other local public agencies.

Other Emergency Resources

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

Hurricane experts are predicting fewer tropical storms and hurricanes this season; however, they have still calculated the possibility of 12+ storms, five to seven hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes. Now is the time to review your emergency preparedness plan. While you’re restocking your emergency supply kit, make sure you also have access to all of The Woodlands Township communication tools.

the Township during a weatherrelated event by signing up for notifications and following official Township social media accounts.

HELP YOUR LAWN BEAT THESummer Heat

By Bob Dailey

It’shot and your lawn might be looking a little peaked. The first response is usually to turn on the irrigation system and soak that turf with water.

Remember though, good soil can only hold so much water (about three quarts per cubic yard). Once the soil is saturated, any excess runs off into the street, then the storm drain, out into Lake Woodlands, Spring Creek, the San Jacinto River and finally to the Gulf of Mexico.

If the soil under the grass is compacted and devoid of organic material, then any water is just going to run off into the street and go the way of all excess water in The Woodlands – that is, the Gulf. You’ve just spent a whole lot of dollars adding fresh water to Galveston Bay.

Of course, there is always the option not to water at all. The lawn in

front of the Water Resources building at 2455 Lake Robbins Drive has not been irrigated with anything but rainwater for the past two years, and it’s lush and thriving. The reason is that the soil underneath the grass is rich in organic matter, added there once or twice a year, which allows the soil to soak up excess water and store it within the top 12 inches. That helps the grass to develop deep root systems.

Here’s another way to help your lawn look great and save you money at the same time. To visualize this, find an area with dry, hard and compacted soil. Pour a glass of water onto it. What happens? The water rolls off the soil and away from the dry spot. Now, very slowly pour the water in droplets onto the soil. See what happens? The water begins to soak into the soil. The water is soaking into the soil by capillary action. If you’re

running your sprinkler system for 10 minutes each zone, drop it down to five minutes each zone, run the entire cycle and then run it again for another five minutes. You’ll be surprised at how well this works.

Finally, remember that the Defined Irrigation Schedule, which started in June 2013, is still in effect. Lawns irrigated by sprinkler systems can be watered no more than two nights per week – never during the day without a variance. Addresses ending in even numbers can only water on Wednesday and Saturday nights, and odd numbers can only water on Tuesday and Friday nights, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

There are no plans to halt the Defined Irrigation Schedule. Hand-held hoses or hose-end sprinklers and drip irrigation are allowed anytime.

The above article was provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, www.wjpa.org.

Hoses, watering cans, hose-end sprinklers and drip irrigation are not subject to the Defined Irrigation Schedule and can be used anytime, day or night.

REFLUX SERVICES AT HOUSTON METHODIST THE WOODLANDS HOSPITAL

The digestive health experts at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital understand the discomfort and frustration that often comes from chronic acid reflux. Our team of specialists evaluates the symptoms of each individual to recommend appropriate diagnostic and treatment options.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Burning sensation in the back of the mouth

• Difficulty breathing

• Difficulty swallowing

• Discomfort in the chest and throat

• Dry cough and hoarseness

• Frequent heartburn

• Irritation in the esophagus

We are here to help.

houstonmethodist.org/thewoodlands

REMEMBER, NO SWIMMING IN LAKES AND PONDS. Enjoy the Township pools and aquatic programs instead.

of the 2019 Splash Guide are available at both recreation centers, The Woodlands Township office and the front desk of every pool.

Cool Off AT THE TOWNSHIP POOLS

Summer is here, and the Township pools are open for the regular season through August 13, 2019! Beat the heat with a visit to one of the Township’s 14 pools or five spraygrounds and splash into summer fun.

SEASON PASSES

If you’re planning to visit one or more of the Township pools on a regular basis, a Season Pass is a hard deal to beat.

RESIDENTS

0 - 2 years .................................................. $6

3 - 64 years .............................................. $40

65 years and up ....................................... $15

Additional family member pass .............. $15 (In addition of purchase of four full price passes; immediate family only.)

NON-RESIDENTS

0 - 2 years .........................................$30

3 years and older ............................$120

No additional family member or senior discount.

Purchasing or renewing your pool pass is easy. Call or visit one of our recreation centers, complete a form in person at one of the Township pools or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun to purchase or renew online. For new season pool passes, pictures must be taken at one of the recreation centers within one week of purchasing a new pass by phone or online.

THE RECREATION CENTER AT ROB FLEMING PARK

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

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

THE RECREATION CENTER AT BEAR BRANCH PARK

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

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

DAILY ADMISSION AND PUNCH CARDS

Daily admission and punch cards are also available for you and any guests.

DAILY ADMISSION

Daily Pass $6 (except Rob Fleming Aquatic Center)

Daily Pass for Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, 48” and taller ................................ $10

Daily Pass for Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Under 48” tall ................................. $8

PUNCH CARDS

Resident Punch Card (six visits) $30 (except Rob Fleming Aquatic Center)

Resident Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

Punch Card (six visits) .........................$40

Non-resident Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

Punch Card (six visits) $55

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools, call the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park at 281-516-7348 or the Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park at 281-210-3950 or email recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Copies

HOLIDAYS

ALL POOLS OPEN

Independence Day, SPLASH DAY!

July 4, 2019 ...................... 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

POST-SEASON POOLS OPEN

Labor Day

September 2, 2019 noon to 6 p.m.

REGULAR SEASON

May 31 to August 13, 2019

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

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

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

*Wendtwoods Pool regular season weekday hours continue through Monday, August 19, 2019.

May 31 to August 13, 2019

Monday – Saturday ............. noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. Creekwood, Forestgate and Lakeside

REGULAR SEASON WEEKLY IN-SERVICE DAYS (CLOSED)

• Mondays: Alden Bridge, Forestgate and Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

• Tuesdays: Ridgewood, Sawmill and Windvale

• Wednesdays: Bear Branch, Falconwing and Wendtwoods

• Thursdays*: Cranebrook, Creekwood and Harper’s Landing

*Exception: Open Thurs. July 4, 2019; closed Wed., July 3, 2019

• Fridays: Lakeside and Shadowbend

POST-SEASON

WEEKDAYS

August 14 to August 30, 2019

Monday – Thursday .................... 1 to 6 p.m.

Closed on Fridays

Shadowbend Pool

WEEKENDS

August 17 to September 8, 2019

Saturday ............................... noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday 1 to 6 p.m.

Cranebrook, Creekwood, Forestgate, Harper’s Landing, Lakeside, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Sawmill, Shadowbend and Wendtwoods

GET MORE WITH A 2019 SEASON PASS

ONLY $40 FOR RESIDENTS OF THE WOODLANDS

PRE-SEASON

Weekends: May 11 to May 27, 2019; Sat., noon to 6 p.m.; Sun., 1 to 6 p.m.*

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

Weekdays: May 13 to May 30, 2019; Mon. to Fri., noon to 6 p.m.; closed Wed.

Bear Branch Pool Only

*On Memorial Day, May 27, 2019, all Township pools are open from noon to 6 p.m.

REGULAR SEASON MAY 31 TO AUGUST 13, 2019

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

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

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

Alden Bridge Closed Monday

Bear Branch ....... Closed Wednesday

Cranebrook Closed Thursday*

Creekwood ........... Closed Thursday*

Falconwing Closed Wednesday

Forestgate ............... Closed Monday

Harper’s Landing Closed Thursday*

Lakeside Closed Friday

Ridgewood ............... Closed Tuesday

Rob Fleming Closed Monday

Sawmill .................... Closed Tuesday

Shadowbend Closed Friday

Wendtwoods . ....Closed Wednesday

Windvale Closed Tuesday

*Exception: Open Thursday., July 4, 2019; closed Wednesday, July 3, 2019

All Township pools are open Fourth of July from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

POST-SEASON

Weekdays: Aug. 14 to Aug. 30, 2019; Mon. to Thurs., 1 to 6 p.m.; closed Fridays

Shadowbend Pool Only

Weekends: Aug. 17 to Sept. 8, 2019; Sat., noon to 6 p.m.; Sun., 1 to 6 p.m.*

Cranebrook, Creekwood, Forestgate, Harper’s Landing, Lakeside, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Sawmill, Shadowbend and Wendtwoods

*On Labor Day, Sept. 2, 2019, only Post-Season Township pools are open from noon to 6 p.m.

July 2019

Get ready for fun at Rock the Row, the free concert series at Hughes Landing. Held weekly on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., Rock the Row features entertainment from a variety of bands. This is a family-friendly event. Remember to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Please note, no glass permitted.

JULY 11, 2019

The Powell Brothers (Country)

JULY 18, 2019

Brenda Guy (Soul)

JULY 25, 2019

The Blue Grooves (Pop/Variety)

AUGUST 1, 2019

Nervous Rex (Variety)

AUGUST 8, 2019

The Nailers (Classic Rock)

AUGUST 15, 2019

Flashpoint (Variety/Dance/Rock)

Monday, July 1

Sunny Dayz Camp - Bear Branch - Week 5

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3950

Sunny Dayz Camp - Rob Fleming - Week 5

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

Wednesday, July 3

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

Star-Spangled Salute

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2005 Lake Robbins Drive 8 p.m. 281-364-3010

Thursday, July 4

Trash and Recycling Services Uninterrupted by Holiday

The Woodlands Township Town Hall Closed

Fourth of July Parade Market Street area 9 a.m. www.4thofjuly.org

Splash Day All Township Pools

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3800

Red, Hot and Blue Festival 6 to 10 p.m.

Five locations in The Woodlands 281-210-3800

Saturday, July 6

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

Monday, July 8

Sunny Dayz Camp - Bear Branch - Week 6

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3950

Sunny Dayz Camp - Rob Fleming - Week 6

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

By George Azar

Photo by Derrick Bryant

Tuesday, July 9

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, July 11

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Rock the Row - Summer Series

Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, July 12

Family Bingo Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

6:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, July 13

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

Summer Youth Tournament Series11 and over Tournaments

Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive

Noon to 2 p.m.

Dive In Movie - Cranebrook Pool 11800 Cranebrook Drive

8:15 p.m.

281-210-3937

Sunday, July 14

Public Safety Open House

Central Fire Station

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

3 to 5 p.m. 281-210-3887

Monday, July 15

Sunny Dayz CampBear Branch - Week 7

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3950

Sunny Dayz CampRob Fleming - Week 7

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m. 281-210-3889

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m. 281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 17

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, July 18

The Woodlands Township Blood Drive

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

281-210-3883

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Rock the Row - Summer Series Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, July 19

Gorilla Hole - Neon Nights

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7 to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, July 20

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

Public Safety Open House Fire Station #6

1100 Windsor Lakes Blvd.

3 to 5 p.m.

281-210-3889

Monday, July 22

Sunny Dayz CampBear Branch - Week 8

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-210-3950

Sunny Dayz CampRob Fleming - Week 8

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

Tuesday, July 23

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 24

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

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

281-210-3800

Thursday, July 25

Rock the Row - Summer Series Hughes Landing 7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, July 27

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

Public Safety Open House

Fire Station #3

1522 Sawdust Road 3 to 5 p.m.

281-210-3887

Sunday, July 28

Public Safety Open House

Fire Station #2 9303 Gosling Road

3 to 5 p.m.

281-210-3886

Monday, July 29

Sunny Dayz CampBear Branch - Week 9

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-210-3950

Sunny Dayz CampRob Fleming - Week 9

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

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

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Cochran’s Crossing

At the April meeting, our association welcomed five new members to the board of Cochran’s Crossing Village Association: Walter Ehrhardt, Stephen Perry, Trae Rogers, Hubert Vaz-Nayak and Kristen Vollmer. Currently, there is one vacant seat on the 18-member board. If you are interested in being on the board, please contact us at cochranscrossing@outlook.com. Also at the April meeting, new officers were elected. This year’s officers are Steve Perry, President; Zach Lowe, Vice-President; Jim Goldmeyer, treasurer; and JC Harville, secretary.

Mark your calendar now for our annual Fall Festival on Sunday, October 27, 2019, at 1 p.m. at Shadowbend Park. This is our largest event of the year and it improves every year. There will be games, a rock wall, bouncy houses, a petting zoo, vendors, food and more. Make plans to join us as we have fun together as a village.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month. We encourage you to join us as we work together for our village.

Submitted by JC Harville

College Park

College Park will host a viewing tent (shade) for the Fourth of July parade. If you live in the villages of Windsor Hills, Grogan’s Forest or Harper’s Landing, please join us for the parade viewing at corner of Lake Woodlands and Grogan’s Mill. Look for the College Park banner on the tent. Please bring your own folding chair. Please check for updates on Facebook.

Thank you for joining us at the Poolooza in June. We send additional thanks to the College Park ROTC and

Major Stewart for the student volunteers who helped at the event. If you were not able to join us, you can still be part of the Safe2Save initiative and sign up for the Village Challenge. For information, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.woodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch. Your participation will help save lives.

At our May meeting, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office reported that most major accidents in our village occur on 242 near the entrances to Lone Star College and the College Park High school. Be advised that the highest number of these accidents happen during the hours of 1 to 4 p.m. which coincides with the high school dismissal. The second highest occurs during lunch rush hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a good reminder to drive with caution in these school zones.

In May we also welcomed our newest board member, Jeff Gross. We still have another vacant seat on the College Park board if you think you might like to become more involved in your community. We welcome interested residents to sit in on a monthly meeting and find out who we are and what we do.

For information, news and a list of upcoming events, please visit our website at www.villageofcollegepark.com. Sign up online for the College Park newsletter.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Creekside Park

Happy Fourth of July to all! If you are looking for fireworks, be sure to check out the Township website for the complete list of locations. The Red, Hot and Blue Festival has expanded to include four additional festival areas, including Creekside Park Village. The festival will be held at Rob Fleming Park. Beginning at 6 p.m., there will be live music by Keeton Coffman (Indie music)

and activities including face painting and concessions. Bring the family, some chairs and/or a blanket to enjoy the festival and stay for the fireworks extravaganza, starting at approximately 9:30 p.m., weather permitting.

The “Dog Days of Summer” are here and Creekside Park has a new dog park available to residents. In May, the dog park at Creekside Park opened adjacent to the Rob Fleming Pool parking lot. Bring the pups for socialization for both you and your fur babies. Please be mindful of others using the park, take note of the park rules and enjoy.

Looking for something for the kids to do this summer? Check out The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park for activities and camps. Learn more in the Summer 2019 Action Guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/actionguide. In addition, Texas TreeVentures, a unique aerial adventure course, opened at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park in April. Texas TreeVentures offers a series of physical challenges and thrill-based elements for youth and adult, with three levels and over 70 challenging elements.

With summer here, the neighborhoods in Creekside Park are full of people walking, running and biking. Please take extra care to look out for our residents and especially the kids enjoying the great outdoors. Be mindful of your speed when traveling through the village to make our village safe. To help keep our streets safer, be sure to sign up for this year’s Village Challenge, Tech Free 4 Me Driving Challenge. Earn points for the village and yourself and keep an eye on the road. For more information about how to sign up and how to earn points to use at local businesses and restaurants, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/1468/Village-Challenge.

Please visit our Facebook page and website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

for updates and events happening in Creekside Park and The Woodlands, Please join us for our monthly village meetings on the first Tuesday of the month at Lone Star College Creekside Park, unless otherwise noted.

Have a safe and happy summer!

Submitted by Lisa Purtell

Grogan’s Mill

Every year, Grogan’s Mill receives many scholarship applicants from Grogan’s Mill residents. As usual, it was very hard to select among them, but the 2019 winners are listed below.

Andrew Parsons is a College Park graduate who will attend Lone Star College. He is majoring in mechanical engineering. He received a scholarship last year as well.

Hannah Ross is a College Park graduate who will attend Sam Houston State University. She plans to be a high school math teacher.

Ana Moreno is a College Park graduate who has applied to four Texas schools and wants to major in criminal justice and attend law school.

Caetlynn Gardiner is College Park graduate who will attend Lone Star College. She wants to attend for two

years and then go to the University of Houston. She plans to major in biology and pre-med.

Lydia Williams is a College Park graduate who has applied to several Texas schools. She wants to work in human resources management.

This year, thanks to the success of The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Grogan’s Mill Village Association was able to award each of these five deserving students a $2,000 scholarship.

Got batteries? Bring your used alkaline (non-rechargeable) batteries from your home, workplace, friends, and families. We narrowly missed being in first place last year. You can bring them to the Farmer’s Market where we will hold them until the challenge officially begins. Our village association could win up to $1,000, which we generally use to support schools and student scholarships in Grogan’s Mill Village.

It’s never too hot at the The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, though there are hot deals on fruits and vegetables, honey, olive oil, crafts, food and more. Stay cool with a snow cone while you shop. The market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors, on most Saturdays we have live music and a food truck. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our website at www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook. com/GrogansMillVillageAssociation/. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Marie Brannen

MEETING INFORMATION

continued on next page

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m.*

CREEKSIDE PARK www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Creekside Park Village Association usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.

at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

Grogan’s Mill Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m.*

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

*Meets at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Fireworks Prohibited in The Woodlands Neighborhoods

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

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

Please see more information about the Fourth of July in The Woodlands on page 6.

Panther Creek

This summer is off to a roaring start with so many activities to share with family and neighbors. We hope you did not miss out on the Panther Creek Flag Day event with a free pool day and picnic at Ridgewood Park, or the traditional Fourth of July parade. Either way, put these two on your calendar for next year.

Our outstanding Woodlands Fire Department is rated in the top one percent of fire departments in the entire nation. In conjunction with Neighborhood Watch, The Woodlands Fire Department will hold an open house on Sunday, July 14, 2019, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Central Fire Station. They will register your bicycles to aide in recovery if they get lost or stolen. A bit closer to Panther Creek, Station #2 at 9303 Gosling, will also hold an open house on Sunday, July 28, 2019, from 3 to 5 p.m. Come see the trucks and equipment close up and meet these dedicated public servants.

Upcoming events to put on your calendar include the very popular Panther Creek trip on Saturday, September 21, 2019, to see our Houston Astros defeat the Arizona Diamondbacks. Texans do know what to do with diamondbacks!

We will gather at the Panther Creek Village Shopping Center to board comfortable custom coaches to and from the game, sparing us the parking hustles and costs. Tickets are in high demand, so call Kim Lewis, our area representative at 281-734-2387 to reserve yours now. The ticket price includes the luxury transportation and entrance to the ballpark.

Later this fall, we will hold the semi-annual Woodlands Flea Market. Whether selling or hunting for a great bargain, this event is always fun. Details for space reservations and the date and times will soon be available 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, along with meeting your area’s sheriff deputies and firemen. Contact your Neighborhood Watch representative to schedule one. If you do not know your Neighborhood Watch member, now is a good time to meet them. You can find them by calling the Township at 281-210-3800. Soon you will get another chance join with your neighbors at National Night Out. Keep checking The Woodlands Community Magazine and the Panther Creek website, www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org, for details.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

What’s that greenish stuff on my house?

The green stuff on your house is probably algae or mildew. Algae and mildew aren’t very selective. They will grow just as easily on bricks, concrete and fences as on siding. Due to our climate, every home in The Woodlands is an algae and mildew candidate! Painting over areas of algae or mildew will only cause the new paint to fail. Removal is the only solution to this creeping villain.

The simplest and least expensive removal treatment is to apply a solution of 10 parts water to one part common bleach (a 10 percent solution) to the affected areas.* Be sure to wet foundation plantings first, and rinse everything in clean water when done to protect your plants from the bleach. Wear gloves and be careful not to come into direct contact with the bleach.

Local home improvement and hardware stores may also stock products designed specifically to treat algae and mildew. Power washing your house occasionally with water only may help prevent mildew and algae from gaining a foothold. *Higher concentrations of bleach may discolor your paint.

What is Algae?

Algae, a plant, is typically green, dark blue, red or orange. This airborne living organism can occur on almost any building material, including wooden and fiber cement siding, fences, concrete, roof shingles and bricks.

What is Mildew?

Mildew, a fungus, can be identified as a blackish gray stain that appears like dirt, but does not come off with detergent.

For more information about Covenants and Standards in The Woodlands, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/covenants.

The 21st Annual Woodlands Family YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge

Registration is now open for the 21st Annual YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge Presented by Repsol. The four-day event, scheduled for September 26-29, 2019, will be held at Northshore Park in The Woodlands. Teams participate in a single four-hour bracket, 8 a.m. to noon or 2 to 6 p.m.

Are you looking for a unique, fun and easy team-building outing? YMCA Dragon Boat is for you. The YMCA does all the planning and facilitating, all you have to do is register, recruit your team and show up ready to play. The event promises teamwork and camaraderie at their best, and allows participants to visit and play with old friends and make new friends.

A team is composed of a minimum of 20 members but no more than 30. Each team roster must have a minimum of five females and participants must be at least 18 years of age. High School teams, 9th – 12th grade, are eligible to participate in the Sunday morning bracket.

The event features six different team activities, but the Dragon Boat Races are the main event. The boats, owned by The American Dragon Boat Association, are transported from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Dragon boats are 40 feet long, extremely colorful and weigh over 1,800 pounds. This exciting team-building event is designed to build community spirit among corporations, civic groups and community organizations. The activities are designed to bring individuals together to achieve a single goal—to have fun! They achieve this by becoming a team and working together as a synchronized unit. It’s much more than beating the other team. It is the camaraderie, the teamwork and team spirit, visiting and playing with old friends, meeting new friends and laughing. Along with improving health, whenever teamwork is involved, there’s the added benefit of being connected to others. It is adults having the opportunity to play like kids!

Celebrating 21 years rowing for a cause, the YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge benefits the Y’s annual

campaign, which ensures everyone, regardless of age, income or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive at the Y. Every dollar raised is an investment in our community and our future.

We row so dreams can grow. Thank you to our generous sponsors whose support has kept the event growing and thriving and helping the YMCA multiply their impact in the community: Repsol, The Woodlands Township, Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, Houston Methodist The Woodlands, CHI St. Luke’s Health The Woodlands, LGI Homes, Raising Cane’s, Alight, Woodforest National Bank, Excelerate Energy, Newpark, Strike, Oxbow and Entergy. Spectators are encouraged to stop by and cheer on their favorite team. Admission is free for spectators. For more information, please visit www.ymcadragonboat.org or contact Roxanne Davis at 281-681-6730.

Information in this article was provided by the YMCA.

January to March 2019, volunteers helped to keep our pathways clean and green.

43 groups

+ 291 volunteer hours

+1,972 gallons of trash

1,315 pounds

20 curbside trash carts

Thank you to our volunteers for keeping The Woodlands beautiful by participating in the Adopt-a-Path program! Anyone interested in keeping our community clean and green is welcome to join the Adopt-a-Path program. Business employees, neighborhoods, school groups and scout troops have all helped keep The Woodlands a beautiful place to live. To find out more, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/adoptapath.

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agent, Girl Scout Troop 11964, Karl Family, Reeder Family, Steve and Judy Easton

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Brothers O’Toole, Kimmel Family, LSC-Montgomery Maverick Leaders, Rhoad Family, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

COLLEGE PARK

Bay Chapel Ct Bandits, Dunseith Family

CREEKSIDE PARK

Adriana Samaia - Red Shirts, Cub Scout Pack #403, Trabue Family, Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL

Huber Family, Scott Marzano

By Zoe Killian

INDIAN SPRINGS

Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto, III, Schapiro Family

PANTHER CREEK

AHG Troop 1180, Clayton & Diane, Esprit International School, Klein Family, National Charity Roundtable, Redmond Family, The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church

STERLING RIDGE

Aktion Club, Charles & Donna Moseley, Devitt Family, Kounthapanya Family, Rohm Home, Slocum Family, The Woodlands

G.R.E.E.N. – Newman Family

RESEARCH FOREST

Houston Advanced Research Center, Ron Keichline and Huntsman colleagues

TOWN CENTER

American Legion Post #305

Tips to Prevent Burglary of Motor Vehicles

By Holly Steinke

Burglary of a motor vehicle is one of the most preventable crimes investigated by law enforcement, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Are you doing your part to help prevent someone from taking items from your vehicle? If not, below are some easy steps that you can take to help prevent being the next victim.

Park your vehicle in a locked garage. If you can’t, be sure to park in a well-lit area. If you are parking in your driveway, consider installing motion sensor lighting to alert you that someone is approaching.

Always remove valuables from your vehicle. Take items inside or, if you are away from home, hide them in a locked trunk before you park. Try not to leave wallets, purses and important documents behind to help avoid identity theft issues.

Always lock your vehicle, close your windows and set your vehicle’s alarm. If your vehicle is unlocked, it makes it easy for the perpetrator to take something quickly. Check that the doors are locked, all the windows are up and that the alarm is set before you walk away from the vehicle.

Take your keys and garage remote. Avoid giving someone access to your vehicle or home.

If you see something suspicious, report it to law enforcement when you see it happening. Don’t wait to report it to law enforcement; calling right away gives them the best chance to find the perpetrator and recover stolen property.

Call 9-1-1, if it’s an emergency.

Call 936-442-7797, option 3 for Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office for suspicious activity in Montgomery County.

Call 281-376-3472 for Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4 for suspicious activity in the Village of Creekside Park, in Harris County.

For more information about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please call 281-210-3800, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/neighborhoodwatch or follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TownshipNeighborhoodWatch.

When you are out, take a photo of your location or parking lot light pole number to help you find your vehicle faster. You may also use iPhone Maps and enter “Parked Car,” or locate an app for Android phones on the Google Play store. Avoiding wandering around a parking to ensure that you do not become a target for crime.

Suicide Prevention Resources

By Holly Steinke

Suicide may be a difficult topic to talk about, but it’s important to know there are resources out there for you or your loved ones.

According to The National Council, suicide is not inevitable for anyone. You can help someone in crisis. Get help at National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately. If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

LOCAL RESOURCES

Montgomery County

Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare www.tricountyservices.org

24hr Helpline ................................................

Routine Services

1-800-659-6994

1-800-550-8408

Mental Health Services Questions ......................

936-521-6100

ADDITIONAL NATIONAL RESOURCES

The National Council

www.thenationalcouncil.org/topics-a-z/suicide-prevention/ www.bethe1to.com/

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Helpline

Harris County

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD www.theharriscenter.org

24hr Crisis Line ...............................

713-970-7000, option 1

Information ..........................................

713-970-7000, option 2

Cassidy Joined for Hope

A local organization started by a parent to prevent teen suicide; go to www.cassidyjoinedforhope.com and click on the Resources tab for additional resources in our area.

Yes To Youth

www.sayyestoyouth.org

Get help! 24/7 Hotline ...........................................

888-756-8682

800-950-NAMI

www.nami.org/Learn-More/Know-the-Warning-Signs Email ................................................................... info@nami.org

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

Suicide Prevention Facts and Resources .........

www.samhsa.gov

Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC)

www.sprc.org/about-suicide/risk-protective-factors

Important protective factors include the following:

• Effective mental health care

• Connectedness to individuals, family, community and social institutions

• Problem-solving skills

• Contacts with caregivers

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention https://afsp.org

swing into fun at

By Joseph Francis

TexasTreeVentures is a new aerial adventure course located in The Woodlands on the campus of The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. It is owned and operated by The Woodlands Township. The course is directly adjacent to the expansive 1,800 acres of the George Mitchell Nature Preserve, which is home to abundant wildlife, several miles of wooded trails and Spring Creek.

Texas TreeVentures offers a series of physical challenges and adventurebased elements designed for youth and adults (age and weight restrictions apply). The three-level aerial adventure course tests participants in a fun,

nature-immersive environment with 72 elements. The course is designed to accommodate any participant’s comfort level by offering three to four options of different elements with varying difficulty at each platform throughout the course. While many aerial adventure courses are linear, Texas TreeVentures has an “open” design, allowing participants to return to their favorite elements as many times as they like and experience the course in any order they choose.

The course is built to the standards of the Association of Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) specifications, which are among the most stringent ropes

course safety standards in the world. Every element is inspected daily and is re-certified to ACCT specifications every year. The Township’s Parks and Recreation Department operates the adventure course with ACCT-trained staff. Texas TreeVentures staff will be present on the course to assist and encourage participants; however, the course is a self-guided adventure. Training will be given through the Gear Up and Ground School instructions to prepare participants for time on the course.

Texas TreeVentures uses the Edelrid Smart Belay (ESB) as the safety belay system that connects the participants to the course via a

dual connection. These have a builtin trolley system that can assist participants through particularly tricky places on any of the elements. The ESB system is designed to permit only one gate (or “claw”) on one of the tethers to be in the open/unlocked position at any given time. This allows participants to transition from one element to another while maintaining a constant connection to the belay system throughout the adventure. A detailed description and practice time will be demonstrated to all participants in the 30- to 45-minute Gear Up and Ground School instruction period prior to accessing the course.

Texas TreeVentures has participant restrictions for age, height, weight, youth supervision and harness fit. Participants must meet all requirements in order to enter the course. These requirements are based on the course structure and safety systems. Participants must be at least 6 years old, and anyone under the age of 16 must adhere to Youth Supervision Requirements. To traverse independently, participants must have a minimum reach

of 70 inches while standing flat-footed, regardless of age. Participants that do not meet the height requirements will require an Adult Monitor to transfer their ESBs. Before gearing up, anyone climbing must also be weighed. The minimum participant weight is 44 pounds and the maximum weight is 275 pounds. Anyone participating as an Adult Monitor must purchase a ticket and stay within one element of the youth participant they are responsible for. Youth supervision requirements apply to daycares and birthday parties as well.

To climb on the course, wear clothing that fits well and does not allow anything to hang loose or get tangled in cables or trollies. Harnesses tend to ride up when fitted properly, so wearing longer shorts/ pants may be more comfortable. Closedtoe, closed-heel shoes are required for all participants, and sneakers or hiking boots are recommended. Long hair must be pulled back and secured, and dangling jewelry must be removed as well as emptying all pockets. The

Texas TreeVentures staff has bins that they will allow participants to store all belongings in for the duration of their adventure.

Reservations are not required but are strongly encouraged, and walkups cannot be guaranteed a slot on the course. It is best to make a reservation as early as possible — at least two to three days in advance. To make a reservation, please visit www.texastreeventures.com, or call 281-210-2048. The website allows reservations up until the day of participation if space is available. The Texas TreeVentures reservation schedule is based on the time of year and sunset times. The last reservation allowed on the course is three hours prior to sunset.

Liability waivers are required by each participant who will be accessing the course. Participants under 18 years old must have a liability waiver signed by a legal parent or guardian. Texas TreeVentures encourages participants to fill out waivers (linked on the receipt) prior to checking in. Swing by…we’ll show you the ropes!

TIPS FOR SAFE AND ENJOYABLE

KAYAKING

By Karl Shaw

Lake Woodlands is a great place to spend a summer day! Here are some helpful tips to make your next family trip to Riva Row Boat House or Lakes Edge Boat House a successful one.

DRESS TO GET WET

Kayaking is, after all, a water sport. Friendly splashes happen! You might also catch a small wave from another passing boat. We suggest lightweight clothing that dries quickly – or even swimwear under your clothes. We also recommend wearing shoes and socks that you don’t mind getting wet, or taking them off before the ride. No swimming permitted.

ACCESSORIZE

It’s hot out there in July, and very sunny. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are all important to help with the Texas heat and the glare coming off the water. (The good news is that Lake Woodlands usually has a nice summertime breeze.) Pack a light snack and a water bottle as well. Cold water and sports drinks are available for purchase at both boat house locations.

SAVE TIME IN LINE

The Woodlands Township offers an online waiver system that allows guests to move quickly through the rental lines at the boat houses. All participants must complete a liability waiver before they go out on the water, including minors. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and search “boat house waivers.”

RELAX AND TAKE IT SLOW

Plan on a multi-hour trip, take breaks, look around and paddle calmly so you don’t get too tired. Check out the signage at the boat houses and online to see how long it takes, on average, to get from point to point. If paddling the Waterway is not your thing, you can begin directly on the north end of Lake Woodlands by setting out from Lakes Edge Boat House in Hughes Landing!

LAKES EDGE BOAT HOUSE

Closed Tuesdays

1970 Hughes Landing Blvd.

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-2065

RIVA

ROW BOAT HOUSE

Closed Wednesdays

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-3965

BOAT HOUSE FEES

Single Kayak $15 for first hour

Tandem Kayak $20 for first hour

Stand-up Paddle Board $20 for first hour

Swan Pedal Boats $25 for first hour

All Boats $5 per each additional hour

Paddles and lifejackets are always included.

Cool off in a kayak, swan boat or on a paddle board this summer on Lake Woodlands! The Township offers rentals at two boat house locations for your convenience. Photo by Karl Shaw

www.arborcarehouston.com

VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE THIS FALL

By Liz Aguirre

Looking for a unique way to showcase your business this year? The Woodlands

Township Parks and Recreation Department produces a variety of events reaching thousands of residents and visitors annually. Vendor opportunities are available for promotional, retail, food/beverage, children’s activity and/or non-profit booth spaces. The Township will be accepting applications for potential vendors at the following events this fall:

TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL

Saturday, October 26, 2019

2 to 6 p.m. at Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Drive

Princesses, pirates, ghosts and goblins are invited to don their costumes and enjoy a spooktacular celebration at the annual community favorite, Trick or Treat Trail. While at the event, children have the opportunity to trick or treat from booth to booth and fill their bags with goodies from local vendors. Plus, the free event includes great strolling entertainment, inflatables, games, costume contests and more.

LIGHTING OF THE DOVES

Saturday, November 23, 2019

3 to 9 p.m. at Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Drive

The Lighting of the Doves Festival is a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the holiday season in the community. Attracting thousands of attendees each year, the event features snow play areas, children’s activities, strolling entertainment and a dazzling fireworks display, weather permitting. Even Santa Claus himself is scheduled to make a special appearance by decorated sleigh along The Woodlands Waterway!

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information about how to become a vendor or sponsor The Woodlands Township’s events, please email specialevents@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

M O S Q U I T O C O N T R O L T I P S

Regularly drain items that hold standing water including buckets, tarps, tires, plant pots, clogged gutters, birdbaths, trash and debris, toys, etc

Avoid being outside between dusk and dawn when disease-carrying mosquitoes are most active.

DO

Do not over water your lawn Lawns in our region require no more than one inch of water per week, including rainfall Over watering creates breeding sites in low areas and in nearby storm drains.

Wear long, loose, light-colored clothing Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors and high-contrast patterns

The Village Recycling Challenge goes beyond the curb to recycle unusual items. Start saving Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries for the 2019 Village Recycling Challenge. Bring saved items to your Village booth at the 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 9, 2019. This year’s celebration will be held at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at the Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center. Villages will receive a donation to their scholarship fund based on resident participation.

Other collections at 3R Bazaar:

• Oral Care Products: Toothpaste tubes, toothbrushes and floss containers by Girl Scouts Cadette Troop 11953

• Eyeglasses: The Woodlands Lions Club

• Textiles: Worn out linens, clothing and shoes that can’t be donated by Simple Recycling

• Secure Document Shredding: Suggested donation of five cans of food or $5 per box

For guidelines and more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/3RBazaar.

Donate the Good, Recycle the Bad

If you find yourself cleaning out your closet to make room for a new wardrobe, remember that gently-worn clothing and household items can be donated to charitable organizations in our community. Some groups will even pick up large items such as furniture or appliances.

Donation is a great option for usable items, but what about overly-worn items such as tattered rags, shoes with holes and clothing covered in stains? Many people believe that donation centers will find a use for these textiles, but with the volumes they receive, that is not possible. Including the overly worn textiles in your donation can do more harm than good. When organizations receive unusable items, they must pay landfill fees that set them back in their charitable missions.

The Woodlands Township has partnered with Simple Recycling to make recycling overly-worn textiles easy and accessible through a curbside collection program. Remember to donate the good, and recycle the bad in the orange bag!

How does it work? It’s Simple!

• Request bags from Simple Recycling at www.SimpleRecycling.com or call 866-835-5068. They’ll deliver bags free to your doorstep within a week.

• Fill them with clothes, shoes, towels, sheets, rugs and rags. Any condition is fine. Toys, books and housewares are also accepted.

• Set the bags curbside on the morning of your solid waste service day - no need to call. Your items will be picked up

By Zoe Killian

automatically and replacement bags tied to your cart.

For more information on the program, please visit www.SimpleRecycling.com. or contact the Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

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

The Woodlands Township has partnered with Simple Recycling to make recycling overly-worn textiles easy and accessible. Donate the good, and recycle the bad in the orange bag!