August 2016

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. 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.

Ed Robb Chairman Position No. 4

Jeff Long Director Position No. 3

Mike Bass Vice Chairman Position No. 2

John McMullan Director

No. 5

Gordy Bunch Secretary Position No. 1

Ann Snyder Director

No. 6

Laura Fillault Treasurer Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

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

Copy Editors

Perry Frank

Jasmine Raziuddin

Editorial Assistant Amber George

Social Media

Ashley Gravois

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.

Taylor is the exper t in robot box engineering.

We are the exper ts in pediatric oncolog y. When Taylor was diagnosed with leukemia, he came to Texas Children’s to receive cutting-edge, life-saving t re a t m e n t . N ow t h a t h e ’s i n re m i s s i o n – a n d feeling like himself again – he needs specialized follow-up care that he can’t find just anywhere .

Why are we bringing world-renowned pediatric expertise and more than 20 pediatric subspecialty ser vices to The Woodlands? So Taylor can focus on the more impor tant things in his life…like what his robot voice should sound like .

Learn more at texaschildrens.org/woodlands.

ON LAKE WOODLANDS

By Amber Barnes

TheWoodlands Township is home to two unique boathouses on the waterfront of Lake Woodlands.

Lakes Edge Boat House and Riva Row Boat House both provide the opportunity to explore Lake Woodlands, create fun family memories, enjoy a special date night, or learn a new water sport all in the center of town.

The boathouses operate on weekends, holidays and have extended rental hours during the summer. This summer, the boathouses are open Thursday through Tuesday, closed on Wednesdays, and rentals are offered from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

During the first hour at both boathouses, single kayaks rent for $15 and tandem kayaks for $20. Each additional hour is $5. Stand-up paddle

boards are available to rent at the Riva Row Boat House for $20 the first hour and $5 each additional hour. Rentals are offered on a walk-up basis. Lifejackets and paddles are included with each rental.

Lakes Edge Boat House is the newest boathouse. The new facility was donated to The Woodlands Township from The Woodlands ® Development Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Howard Hughes Corporation.® Lakes Edge Boat House is located next to One Lakes Edge, a multifamily community at 1970 Hughes Landing Blvd., just a short walk from Whole Foods Market, Restaurant Row and the Lake Woodlands Boardwalk.

Riva Row Boat House has been in operation since 2009 and is located at

Riva Row Boat House offers stand-up paddle board rentals.

Photo by Perry Frank

Market Street, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and Town Green Park.

As the second rental facility of kayaks on the waterfront of Lake Woodlands, the Lakes Edge Boat House works in partnership with Riva Row Boat House. Lakes Edge Boat House currently offers only kayak rentals, while Riva Row Boat House has more robust offerings. Riva Row Boat House offers stand-up paddle boards, individual and group lessons, team building events, group tours, and courses on water and boating safety.

For more information about Riva Row Boat House and Lakes Edge Boat House, please call 281-210-3965 or visit the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/rivarowboathouse. Please review the FAQ page at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/rivarowboathouse before visiting the boathouses. Group reservations for Riva Row Boat House can be made over the phone or in person at the boathouse.

Photos by Jasmine Raziuddin

2101 Riva Row in the middle of Town Center. Riva Row Boat House is just a short walk from

In operation since 2009, Riva Row Boat House offers single and tandem kayak rentals, stand-up paddle board rentals, individual and group lessons, team building events, group tours and courses on water and boating safety on the waterfront of Lake Woodlands.

Lakes Edge Boat House, located in Hughes Landing, is the newest boathouse on the waterfront of Lake Woodlands. The facility offers single and tandem kayak rentals for family-friendly fun.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2016 election, designated as positions 1, 2, 3 and 4. Each position is for a two-year term. Candidates may file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions on regular business days between July 23, 2016, and the close of business at 5 p.m. August 22, 2016. The deadline for filing a declaration of a write-in candidacy is 5 p.m. August 26, 2016. Please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet. Filings are accepted on regular business days during the Township’s office hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP NOVEMBER 8, 2016 ELECTION

RELEVANT DATES*

AUGUST 22, 2016

Last Day to File Application to Appear on Ballot for One of the Designated Positions (5 p.m.); Last Day to Order Election

AUGUST 26, 2016

Last Day to File Declaration of Write-In Candidacy (5 p.m.)

OCTOBER 11, 2016

Last Day to Register to Vote

OCTOBER 24, 2016

First Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

OCTOBER 28, 2016

Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (received, not postmarked)

NOVEMBER 4, 2016

Last Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

NOVEMBER 8, 2016 Election Day

* The Texas Secretary of State is the chief election officer of the State of Texas and provides the dates set forth herein. Interested persons are encouraged to visit the Secretary of State’s Election Division website at www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml or contact the Secretary of State’s Election Division by telephone at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683) to obtain the most current information.

There is Still Time to Get Your

By Pamela Woods

It’sAugust, and the intense heat of the summer is well underway. If you don’t already have your season pool pass, they are still available for purchase or renewal. Purchasing or renewing your pool pass is easy, and it can be done one of three ways:

1. Call 281-210-3950.

2. Visit The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381.

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

For new season pool passes, pictures must be taken at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center within one week of purchasing a new pool pass by phone or online. The Woodlands Township Recreation Center is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Resident Pool Pass Fees:

0 – 2 years: $6

3 – 64 years: $40

Senior*: $15

Additional Family Pass**: $15

*Ages 65 years and up

** In addition to purchase of four full price passes, immediate family only.

Non-Resident Pool Pass Fees:

0 – 2 years: .......................................$30

3 years and up: ...............................$120

No additional family discount, no additional senior discount.

Season passes are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Pools are open for the regular season until August 21, 2016! Shadowbend Pool will have the post-season weekday hours of 1 to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, from August 22 to September 1, 2016. Post-season weekend swimming will be available at nine Township pools from August 27 to September 25, 2016.

The complete schedule for pool hours is available at:

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools

YOU FIRE UP THE GRILL

Are you firing up the grill this summer? With grilling season in full force, The Woodlands Fire Department encourages Township residents to take the time to review a few safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA). These tips will help protect you and your guests from a fire or burn injuries:

o Only use your grill outside.

o Keep it away from siding and deck rails.

o Keep a 3-foot safe zone around your grill to keep kids and pets safe.

o Clean your grill after each use to remove grease, which can start a fire.

o Place the coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled.

o Open your gas grill before lighting.

o Keep an eye on your grill fire pit or patio torches.

In the event of a fire or medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.

Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency

By Kristin Pternitis

in The Woodlands, Tuesday, August 2, 2016 National Night Out

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites everyone to join together with their neighbors Tuesday, August 2, 2016, between 6 and 8:30 p.m., for a night out against crime. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make

neighborhoods safer. Residents are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and gather with neighbors. When neighborhoods participate in National Night Out, it accomplishes one of the first steps in crime prevention, “neighbor knowing neighbor.”

Take this opportunity to send the message that your neighborhood is united

against crime. How you celebrate is up to you. It can be as simple as providing Popsicles or as elaborate as playing games and hosting a barbecue. All you need to do is gather your neighbors and participate! For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout.

Photo by Susan Martin

UPCOMING NATIONAL NIGHT OUT EVENTS:

Boots vs. Badges Softball Game

Saturday, August 20, 2016, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

McCullough Junior High – Scotland Yard Baseball Field (3800 South Panther Creek Drive)

In celebration of National Night Out, come out and root for both of your home teams during a friendly game of softball between The Woodlands Fire Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Our home team players will strive to be safe at home, just like The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch. Hamburgers, hot dogs and other concessions will be sold with proceeds benefiting The Woodlands High School Baseball Booster Club. Admission is free!

Save the date to join The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch for the National Night Out Community Sa fety Expo.

Community Safety Expo

Saturday, October 1, 2016, from noon to 3 p.m.

Rob Fleming Aquatic Center (Village of Creekside Park)

6535 Creekside Forest Drive

Have you ever wanted to be behind the wheel of a fire truck or patrol car? Have you ever wanted to see the inside of a law enforcement mobile command unit, or try out the equipment of various public safety agencies? To experience the lights and sirens of public safety, make plans to join us for this free hands-on event. Come on out and thank all of the public safety personnel that serve The Woodlands Township!

Car Seat Check

Saturday, October 1, 2016

10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

YMCA Parking Lot

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

In conjunction with the National Night Out Community Safety Expo, a child car seat check will be available at the YMCA parking lot.

Solid Waste Services Not Impacted by Holiday Weekend

The Woodlands Township reminds residents that all solid waste services in the community will occur as usual over the Labor Day weekend. There will be no interruption or delay of services due to the holiday. Waste Management will provide curbside pickup of trash, recycling and yard trimmings to all households on the regular service day, including Monday, September 5, 2016.

In a new policy instituted January 1, 2015, Waste Management reduced the number of holidays taken by the waste hauler’s operations staff.

“Trucks and crews will be operating in The Woodlands on Labor Day and all services will occur as usual for the remainder of the week,” according to John Geiger, manager of The Woodlands Township Environmental Services.

Whether staying at home or on the go over the holiday weekend, residents are reminded that plastic bottles, aluminum cans and juice boxes can be recycled. Just drain any remaining liquid, rinse and place beverage containers in the green recycling cart with the yellow lid for curbside pickup! As always, clean recyclables should be placed loosely in the cart; and keep plastic bags out of the cart to keep recycling working.

Labor Day Weekend in The Woodlands

Saturday, September 3, 2016

Sunday, September 4, 2016

6 to 9 p.m.

Waterway Square

Relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor at Labor Day Weekend in The Woodlands at Waterway Square! Featuring two evenings of live music, children’s activities, strolling entertainers and fireworks presented by Waste Connections, Labor Day Weekend in The Woodlands provides an exciting night out for all ages. This event is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by 5 Point Credit Union and The Woodlands® Development Company. To learn more, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/laborday.

Photo by Derrick Bryant

August 2016

Monday, August 1

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Tuesday, August 2

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting – Cancelled

National Night Out Neighborhood Parties

6 to 8:30 p.m.

See page 12 for more information.

Wednesday, August 3 Development Standards Committee Meeting*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m. 281-210-3800

Thursday, August 4

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Rock the Row, presented by Strike Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m. 281-210-3800

Saturday, August 6

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

Sunday, August 7

Lake Woodlands Excursion Riva Row Boat House 10 to 11:30 a.m. 281-210-3965

Kayak rental required. $40 solo, $60 tandem

Tuesday, August 9

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, August 11

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3800

Rock the Row, presented by Strike Hughes Landing 7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, August 13

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Sunday, August 14

Grogan’s Mill Village Association FREE Pool Day

1 to 4 p.m.

Sawmill Pool 2200 Millpark Drive 281-210-3887

Monday, August 15

Board of Directors Budget Workshop #1 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8:30 a.m. 281-210-3800

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 p.m. 281-210-3889

Tuesday, August 16

Board of Directors

Budget Workshop #2 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 8:30 a.m. 281-210-3800

A black-crowned night heron searches for prey in the frothy water on the spillway near Southshore Park. Photo submitted by John Hibbs

Wednesday, August 17

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Board of Directors

Budget Workshop #3

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, August 18

Board of Directors

Budget Workshop #4

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-281-3800

Rock the Row, presented by Strike Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, August 19

Board of Directors

Budget Workshop #5

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

8:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center Fun with Foam

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

Fifth-, sixth- and seventh-graders; $7 per person.

Saturday, August 20

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

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

Lil Kayakers

Riva Row Boat House

11 a.m. to noon

$30 per solo kayak, Ages 8 to 14. 281-210-3965

Boots vs. Badges Softball Game

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

7 to 8:30 p.m. 281-210-3800

Sunday, August 21

Kayaking 101

Riva Row Boat House

9 to 10:30 a.m.

$30 per solo kayak, Ages 12 and up. 281-210-3965

Lake Woodlands Cleanup

Riva Row Boat House

9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Regular rental rates apply. 281-210-3965

Introduction to Stand-up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

Riva Row Boat House

9:30 to 11 a.m.

$30 per person, ages 16 and up. 281-210-3965

Paddle Boarding for Kids

Riva Row Boat House

11:30 to 1 p.m.

$30 per person, ages 10 to 16. 281-210-3965

Monday, August 22

Pool post-season hours begin

See page 10 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools.

Tuesday, August 23

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, August 24

Watch Talk Wednesday

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.

281-210-3800

Thursday, August 25

Rock the Row, presented by Strike Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, August 27

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Lake Woodlands Excursion

Riva Row Boat House

10 to 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3965

Kayak rental required.

$40 solo, $60 tandem

Wednesday, August 31

The Woodlands Township Public Hearing #1 If needed for 2017 Budget

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

See www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ calendar.aspx

Upcoming Events

September 3 and 4

Labor Day Weekend Event

Waterway Square

6 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800 or see page 15.

Monday, September 5

Labor Day

Township offices closed.

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

For American Heart Association Heartsaver and First Aid classes, please visit the Township calendar located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

NO CHANGES IN GARBAGE SERVICE.

No changes in garbage service this month. Watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

We hope that everyone is enjoying a great Woodlands summer! Our monthly village association board meeting will be held Tuesday, August 9, 2016. We’ll meet at 7 p.m. at the The Woodlands Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. Our guest speaker has not been scheduled as of this writing, so please watch our website, email newsletter and Facebook page for updates. Please join us! We love to meet Alden Bridge residents and are always ready to hear your concerns. We have three new board members for you to meet: Paul Phelps, Greg Sherlock and Carey Yeager.

Our latest Yard of the Month winner was the Daigle family of N. Willow Point Circle. They certainly have a beautiful yard! We’ll have one last award for this year, September 1, 2016, so send your nominations for best yard in our village to info@aldenbridge.org. Please submit your nominations no later than August 25, 2016.

Once again, Alden Bridge is taking a bus to Minute Maid Park for an Astros game, so please email info@aldenbridge.org to determine whether we have tickets left. The game will be the Houston Astros vs. the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim,

Saturday, September 24, 2016, and tickets have been going fast! The $22 ticket price includes the bus trip to downtown and back from our village center, which is a gift to our residents from your village association board. It’s the best deal in town when you think about what it costs to park in downtown Houston!

Our email newsletter is distributed on a monthly basis to over 1,000 residents. Please send us your email address, so you can receive the most current Alden Bridge news. Your email address will not be shared and will be used solely to distribute village news. Also, don’t forget to check our village association website, www.aldenbridge. org, for news between newsletters.

A new school year will begin August 22, 2016, so be extra careful when driving around our community. Please look for the school zone speed limit signs and obey them. Let’s give our children a safe and happy new school year!

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

In May, Mark Castleschouldt, Montgomery County tax assessor/ collector, provided the Village Association Board and Cochran’s Crossing residents with a forum for answers to tax assessment actions. Mr. Castleschouldt gave a good briefing on the history of tax assessment in Montgomery County and the way current rates are established. More to the point, he described the way property owners can question their individual assessments. He also pointed out that by maintaining local control, property tax is better than alternative forms of taxation such as a sales tax, which are controlled by the state.

Two very well qualified Cochran’s Crossing Village Association scholarship

winners have been announced. They are Anabella Pinton (University of Chicago / biology) and Ethan Faries (Tulane / biomedical engineering) and both are from The Woodlands High School. They are leaders in their school, their community and church. The selection committee included Cindy Kessinger, Jennifer Graff, Jennifer Kraus, Lori Riley, Kathy Creighton, Jo Ann Johnson and Steve Perry.

The Village Board is considering community spirit events in addition to the Fall Festival. More about the

Festival in the September issue of The Woodlands Community Magazine. However, it’s not too early to put it on your calendar. This year it will be October 15, 2016, at Shadowbend Park.

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association board now is complete with 18 board members. The newest board members include Jennifer Kraus and Zack Lowe. Remember, board meetings are open to all the fourth Tuesday of every month (except December) at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms. Let us know if you are interested in participating in village association events (such as the Fall Festival), on the village board if a vacancy comes up, or if you have something to share with the village.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month winner for June was the Daigle family of North Willow Point Circle.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association awarded scholarships to Ethan Faries and Anabella Pinton.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

College Park

The residents of College Park are second place winners out of all of the villages that competed in the 2016 Water Wise Village Challenge. Last year, College Park came in at third place. Thank you to all the residents who demonstrated their support of water conservation and turned off lawn sprinklers this spring. Let’s do it again next year!

We did not fare as well in the GreenUp cleanup back in April. Sadly, we came in last place based on the percentage of participation from our residents in College Park. But, we are not to be deterred. So, please think about joining us next April for the GreenUp cleanup. This is an activity that the family can do together.

Our May event, the Poolooza, was a splashing success with well over 300 residents joining us for hot dogs, swimming and fun. Upcoming events include National Night Out, which is once again on the August calendar and the annual Halloween Spooktacular in October. This means more parties and more fun for all ages with your neighbors in College Park. Be sure to check out the College Park Village Association website, www.villageofcollegepark.com, for updates and a full calendar of our annual scheduled events.

Are you saving your oral care packaging? Please continue to save old toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, floss containers and outer packaging of these items for the recycling challenge in November. The America Recycles event is sponsored by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services.

Now that you know a bit about our activities, you may want to plan to

attend the next College Park Village Association meeting, Monday, August 15, 2016, at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Grogan’s Mill

The Woodlands Township has formed a task force to address drainage issues in The Woodlands, working with The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, the San Jacinto River Authority, and Mongomery County (Precinct 3). If you feel your concerns have not already been addressed, please contact any Grogan’s Mill Village Assocation director, as we will be represented on the task force.

A National Night Out Community Event for Grogan’s Point will be held September 25, 2 to 5 p.m. at Grogan’s Point Park. Residents of Grogan’s Point are invited to join the fun, meet and greet neighbors and meet local public safety personnel. Mark your calendar.

The free Woodlands311 app is the official mobile app for The Woodlands Township. The app is an easy-to-use platform for community members to stay in touch with The Woodlands Township. Go to the Township website for links to the Android or Apple IOS download. The link is on the home page in the Social Media Corner section.

Service requests, such as reporting broken streetlights, are easily submitted by completing a short description of the issue. Attach a photo or let your phone record the exact location to help the Township pinpoint the problem. Requests will be routed to the appropriate department for proper handling. Residents will be able to track the progress of their continued on page 20

MEETING INFORMATION

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 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 936-271-0587.

CREEKSIDE PARK

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association (TWCPVA) usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Lone Star College - Creekside Center, 8747 West New Harmony Trail. Meetings in August, October and November will be held on the first Monday of each month. Please join us!

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or contact Village Association President Nancy Becker at nancy.cpva@gmail.com.

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 or Village Association President Marie Brannen at president@gmva.org.

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 Mike Arendes, Mike.Arendes@IndianSpringsVillage.com.

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 first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

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.

requests on the Township website and through the mobile application.

Residents can also use the in-app widgets to find important information about Township services, events, public facilities and more.

It is never too late for advance hurricane preparation, as the peak hurricane season is usually September – October. Go to the the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/emergency/ for more information. To sign up for Emergency Notifications, visit the Township’s Notify Me webpage at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ notifyme.

With the hot summer days coming to an end in a few weeks, The Farmer’s Market is bustling with over 40 active vendors selling fresh vegetables, meats, seafood from the Gulf, coffee, breads, honey, salad dressings, gifts, Mexican foods, and much more – all locally produced or packaged. See us at the Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center at South Millbend and Grogan’s Mill every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine. Check out the vendors scheduled to set up by visiting our website at www.grogansmillvillage.com, where you can also sign up for our weekly e-blast of what’s coming each Saturday.

Submitted by Bob Leilich

Panther Creek

Thankfully, most of the homes in Panther Creek were spared from the ravages of the spring deluges that hit many families in Montgomery County. If you suffered damage and/or care to share pictures of the flooding, please contact the village association board. A flag-waving thank you is due to the many village association volunteers, veterans and residents who made our annual Flag Day Picnic another great success. All of the board members worked hard to fill in for the outstanding jobs that were done

in past years by Mitch and Peggy Hausman. A special thanks is due to Denise Judy who stepped in to coordinate the event. Turnout at Ridgewood Park for the picnic was one of the largest ever.

Hosts and guests had a grand old-fashioned summer get together. The picnic included flag displays and flag information, provided by Mrs. Paula Ison and her crew from Veterans of Foreign Wars Unit 12024. The traditional large flag display representing all the branches of our armed services had been collected and shared by the late John Nanninga. The tradition will continue as his daughter Beth and her husband Douglas Grijalva have generously donated the collection to the permanent care of your Panther Creek Village Association.

Children and even a few adults were treated to sculpted balloons, masterfully crafted by our lovely balloon art wizardess. The village association’s crew of chefs grilled hot dogs and hamburgers that were served with fresh fixin’s and many other picnic treats. The Ridgewood Park free pool day featured beach balls and floating ducks for the children, who also enjoyed getting their pictures taken with the Panther Creek Panther. Put the Saturday closest to Flag Day on your calendar, June 10, 2017, for next year’s Panther Creek old-fashioned neighborhood picnic. All residents of Panther Creek are welcome.

Speaking of red-hot events, we are down to the last few tickets available for our annual trip to watch the Astros win another ballgame. On Friday, September 23, 2016, we’ll board a custom coach at the east side of the Panther Creek Shopping Center for an enjoyable trip to and from the ballpark. The $21 ticket price includes the roundtrip custom coach ride, admission to the park

and seating with your Panther Creek neighbors. The tickets are going fast, so call Everett Ison at 281-298-9524 for more information and to make your reservations now.

As you head off to whichever vacation spots you choose this summer, don’t forget to protect your home. Notify the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department to keep an extra eye on your property while you are gone. The Vacation Watch program is free when you travel from two to 30 days at a time. Since the program began years ago, no home registered with the Vacation Watch program has been burglarized while residents were off on their vacations. Online registration is fast and easy at www.mocosheriff.com.

It is not too soon to start planning your participation in the neighborhood National Night Out Party Tuesday, August 2, 2016. Find us at www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

The Sterling Ridge Village Association is seeking local sponsors for its 10th Annual BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival, which will be held September 24, 2016. Each year, this is the biggest event in Sterling Ridge, and a great way for local businesses to support our community.

There are numerous sponsorship levels available, beginning at $150 and all the way up to $1,000. Any interested business may contact Sponsorship Chairperson K. Shaw at klynda@gmail.com. Sponsorship money not only helps fund this fun event, but also helps increase the annual donations by the Sterling Ridge Village Association to local schools’ PTOs. Sponsors will get certificates of appreciation that they can display at their establishments.

Residents are reminded to secure their valuables. Never leave valuable items in parked cars, in plain sight or open garages.

If you plan on being out of town in August, we encourage you to take advantage of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office great Vacation Watch program. Patrol deputies will check on the security of your residence while you are out of town. Sign up at www.mocosheriff.com/vacationdbz. cfm. A reminder that Sterling Ridge Village Association monthly board meetings are open to the public and are held the first Thursday of each month in The Woodlands Township Town Hall at 7 p.m. For more information, you can also visit the village association website at www.sterling-ridge.org.

Submitted by Dan Sousa

Keep Preparations Ready During SEASON

Stay Informed

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/ stayinformed. This is where you can sign up for emergency alerts, Talk of the Township eNewsletter, department blogs and more. 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 by visiting www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ firedepartment.

For more information about emergency preparedness, please call The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or visit the Homeland Security website at www.ready.gov.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors urges all residents not to be complacent and to be prepared if disaster should strike.

During a disaster you may not have access to the following:

• Electricity

• Water And Ice

• Pharmacies

• Food

• Fuel

• Banks/ATMs

• Television

• Internet

• Cellular Telephone Connections

• Convenience Stores

Make Sure You Have An Emergency Supply Kit

Assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need to get by in one place. Recommended supplies to include are:

• One gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation

• At least a three-day supply of nonperishable 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 and pet food.

Solid Waste Solutions During Weather Events

Extreme weather events may affect or delay solid waste collection. The Woodlands Township reminds residents to keep solid waste guidelines in mind during clean-up efforts following severe weather. The following are some helpful tips to get your yard back in shape as quickly as possible.

Yard Debris Options

Curbside pickup by Waste Management on regular service day.

Unlimited yard trimmings are accepted. However, they must meet guidelines.

• Trim to four feet and no bigger than four inches in diameter.

• Bundle with twine and bagged in compostable bags or containerized in an open container.

• Must weigh no more than 40 pounds.

Drop-off at The Woodlands Recycling Center (self-service).

Center is open Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Yard trimmings must be no bigger than 12 inches in diameter.

• Trimming, bundling NOT required.

• NO plastic bags.

Drop-off at Montgomery County Precinct 3 Recycling Facility.

Located at 1122 Pruitt Road.

Open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

• Residential drop-off of yard trimmings which will be landfilled.

• Fees vary from $10 to $15 for a pickup load or $20 for a small trailer.

Household/Garage Cleanup

Curbside bulk waste pickup by Waste Management.

• Schedule bulk waste pickup for oversized items too large to fit in trash cart if it were empty, such as a broken chair, broken toys, damaged lawn furniture, old grill or items no longer serviceable.

• NO construction debris, carpet or fencing.

Purchase pink tags for bagged extra household trash and small items.

• Pink tags can be purchased for $1.75 each from Customer Service at Kroger or Randall’s.

• Affix one tag to each bag of waste.

Purchase Waste Management’s

The Bagster and schedule/pay online for pickup.

• The Bagster can be purchased at big box stores such as Lowe’s or Home Depot.

• Each bag holds 3,000 pounds or 3 yards (4×8) of debris/waste.

Flood Debris Information

For information about sorting flood debris, visit the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Mangement website.

For more information about solid waste services in The Woodlands, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/recycling.

You can keep up with all of the Township’s information and activities by visiting www.TheWoodlandsTownship-TX.gov/ stayinformed , and sign up for the information you want to receive, including emergency alerts. For overall information delivered to your inbox, choose the weekly Talk of the Township e-newsletter.

For more frequent service and department-specific information, choose to follow one of the blogs. You can also follow the Township at facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship and twitter.com/thetownshiptx

www.TheWoodlandsTownship-TX.gov/stayinformed

facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship

twitter.com/thetownshiptx

Montgomery County 9-1-1 Says: PLAN AHEAD FOR AN EMERGENCY WITH SMART911

By Andrea Wilson, Public Education Coordinator for Montgomery County 9-1-1

Individuals and families are encouraged to create a safety profile to provide vital information to 9-1-1 in case of any emergency

Montgomery County 9-1-1 and its partners have introduced a free service available to plan ahead for an emergency – Smart911. The recent flooding combined with the start of a new hurricane season remind us of why it is important to prepare for dangerous conditions.

Smart911, a national public safety service, allows individuals and families to create an online safety profile which includes critical information for first responders such as names, home address, medical notes, disabilities, emergency contacts, and even descriptions of pets. When 9-1-1 is dialed from any phone number registered to the profile, the information is shown to dispatchers who can relay addresses and current information to first responders in the field. A safety profile can be created by going to www.smart911.com.

These details in a safety profile can improve the outcome of an emergency in various ways, including:

A Medical Emergency

• Information on allergies, medications, medical conditions, or disabilities given to public safety personnel while in route helps them arrive prepared and possibly begin treatment sooner.

Emergency Call from a Child

• Children probably know how to dial 9-1-1, but they may not be able to relay the information needed to get help quickly. Details such as an address or medical notes on a family member can be included in the safety profile so the dispatcher does not have to rely on the child for information.

An Incident While Driving

• When someone is in a car accident or experiences a medical issue while driving, the dispatcher will have access to vehicle details to help responders locate them faster as well as medical notes for treatment instructions.

An Incident at Home

• In the event of a house fire, accident or other emergency at home, a safety profiles provides a home address, access instructions, occupants of the house, descriptions of pets so responders can arrive faster and help account for loved ones.

“Members of our community have many concerns when it comes to their health and safety,” said Chip VanSteenberg, executive director. “If they need to dial 9-1-1, it can be a great reassurance to know that emergency responders will have a head start understanding their specific needs and developing the best response plan.” Individuals and families are encouraged to create a free safety profile at www.smart911.com. They can provide as much or as little information as they like and their profile is private and secure; the information is only used in an emergency.

Smart911 is a national service provided by Rave Mobile Safety and is available in over 1,500 communities across 40 states.

By Bob Dailey

SAVE MONEY THIS SUMMER, DON’T OVERWATER

It’sAugust and hot, dry days are typically upon us. At least, that’s what happened last year. With all the rain, we haven’t had to use our irrigation systems for a while. We’ve had our systems turned off, hopefully, during the monsoons. Some of us are anxious to see those sprinklers throwing water on our lawns again.

Be cautious though. Last summer when the rains ended, residential usage went from 500 million gallons to over a billion gallons. When water bills went out of sight, some residents blamed leaks or misread meters for the spike.

However, the meters were correct. After checking over 1,000 meters, The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency found only a one percent discrepancy. The other 99 percent of the readings were accurate.

That left only one conclusion. Some residents, but not most, heavily increased irrigation when the rains ended, which was generally to the detriment of their lawns and pocketbooks.

Now that same pattern may occur this year, with water use rising significantly and the cost of water escalating in relation to use.

However, if you think your water meter has been misread, you can double-check the meter reading yourself. As soon as you receive your water bill, turn off all running water inside and outside your home and read your water meter. For a step-by-step guide, go to wjpa.org and click on “News” in the main menu. That will bring you to the Waterworks NewsBlog. An in-depth article on how to read your water meter is posted there.

Fungus, insects, disease

St. Augustine, Zoysia and Bermuda grasses, already saturated by unprecedented rain, are now highly susceptible to fungal diseases and insect damage. Too much water at this time makes these problems worse, not better.

Doubling water usage during August is not a solution to maintaining healthy lawns. Instead, follow the two-day-per-week defined irrigation schedule and water moderately if it hasn’t rained. Monitor rain events and turn off sprinklers during that time. Other recommendations, including: irrigating no more than an inch of water a week; sharpened blades on your mower; not crew-cutting the lawn, but mowing a third of the length of the grass blade; aerating; adding organic material; and following best practices leads to a healthier lawn and much less costly water bill.

Residential water usage doubled last year in the two dry months following the two wettest months, and some residents doubled their water bills. Monitor your outdoor water usage after the rains end.

For more information, please visit www.wjpa.org.

By Brooke Wallery

The Zika Virus:

Staying Healthy in The Woodlands

Manyresidents of The Woodlands have voiced their concern about the spread of Zika in our area. Fortunately, as of the date of this writing, no Zika-positive mosquitoes have been found in The Woodlands or even in Texas. Although the future of Zika in our area is uncertain, it is important to be informed about the virus and the precautions you can take to stay healthy.

POSSIBILITY, NOT YET REALITY

• The Pan American Health Organization has confirmed that the Asian Tiger (Aedes albopictus) mosquito can spread Zika. This mosquito is active in The Woodlands.

• The Woodlands Township Environmental Services team is working with Montgomery County to monitor the Asian Tiger mosquito and to control mosquito population size.

THE ZIKA VIRUS: THE FACTS

• The virus can be transmitted from mosquito to person, from mother to child, and through sexual contact.

• According to the World Health Organization, the majority of people who contract Zika will experience no symptoms. About 20 percent of those infected will develop flu-like symptoms accompanied by joint pain and conjunctivitis lasting 3 to 5 days.

• The Zika virus can cause birth defects if a pregnant woman is infected.

THE ASIAN TIGER MOSQUITO

• The preferred breeding site is still water in containers.

• The Asian Tiger mosquito is active during the day and is an aggressive biter. It only flies a few hundred feet from its breeding site.

PERSONAL PROTECTION

• Dump out still water in yard on a weekly basis.

Although the future of Zika in our area is uncertain, it is important to be informed about the virus and the precautions you can take to stay healthy.

• Treat water that cannot be eliminated with Mosquito Dunks® larvicide (available at local hardware stores).

• Wear CDC-approved mosquito repellent. Follow label directions to maximize effectiveness.

For more information about Zika, please consult The Woodlands Township Environmental Services website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/mosquitoinfo.

Dr. Rudy Bueno, a public health and entomology expert, examines a BG Sentinel trap that he uses to monitor the Aedes albopictus mosquito population in The Woodlands.

Photo by Brooke Wallery

Aedes albopictus or Asian Tiger mosquito has bold black and white stripes that can be discerned with the naked eye. Photo by Susan Ellis

By Ashley Gravois

TOWNSHIP WEBSITE FEATURES

Earlier this year, The Woodlands Township launched a new, redesigned version of its website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, in an effort to enhance online transparency and to create a more user-friendly site for residents, businesses and visitors.

I Want To…

Not sure where to start? Try the new “I Want To” section in the navigation bar and connect with the information that is most desired.

Customer Service

We’re here to help. Click on the Report a Concern button, fill out the appropriate form and contact us today!

Search and Find

Smart search helps you find the results you need faster.

Calendar of Events

Looking to attend a public meeting or need something family-friendly to do this weekend? The online Calendar of Events is the place to go for updated information about Town Hall meetings and upcoming community events. Subscribe to a calendar and be automatically updated when new events are published.

Township News

Read all about Township activities and programs.

The Township invites the public to explore, enjoy, and experience The Woodlands Township … online!

Spotlight Information

Frequently updated spotlights highlight relevant Township services, recent news and upcoming events.

Social Corner

The latest Township buzz all in one handy place! Follow the links to get connected with the Township on social media.

By Lucinda Valdes

WASTE-FREE LUNCHBOX

Back to School with the 3 Rs

Metal, plastic or insulated, stackable or decorated, a new lunch box symbolizes back to school! This year, make the lunchbox and contents a cool, trendy green with the 3 Rs.

Reduce, reuse, recycle — the 3 Rs are making the leap from family home to the classroom, and the lunch box is leading the way. Going waste-free with fresh fruit and reusable containers and utensils over prepackaged foods and disposable wrappings makes a huge impact on budgets, children’s health and the environment.

The convenience of disposables comes with a cost. Over the course of a school year, a typical student generates 67 pounds of trash from disposable baggies, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, pouches and other lunchroom throw-a-ways, according to www.wastefreelunches.org. Annually that adds up to 51,699 pounds of lunchtime trash for the average elementary school in The Woodlands, a heavy financial burden for school districts and taxpayers.

At home, single-serve and prepackaged items cost more, too. Sparing the family budget, waste-free lunches offer a savings of about $246 per child per year.

Involve children in menu planning, check the library for cookbooks and

search the Internet for fun, healthy lunch ideas. To keep foods chilled, remember to include a freezer pack. Label containers with your child’s name to speed lunchroom cleanup. The following tips are great for workplace lunches, travel and picnics, too!

Minimize waste.

AVOID…

• Paper and plastic bags.

• Plastic baggies and disposable wraps.

• Prepackaged, single serve chips, desserts and snacks.

• Disposable drink pouches.

• Plastic forks and spoons.

• Paper napkins.

Maximize savings. CHOOSE…

• Reusable, lead-free, BPA- and phthalate-free lunch boxes.

• Fresh fruits and veggies; many require no packaging.

• Reusable sandwich and snack containers or pouches.

• Refillable thermos or sports bottle.

• Recyclable cartons and aluminum or plastic containers.

• Reusable utensils.

• Cloth napkins.

GO WASTE FREE WITH THE 3 Rs; IT’S EASY!

Reduce

• Buy fresh produce and items in bulk to cut down on packaging.

• Don’t toss it. Leftovers like pizza, chicken legs and pasta salad are great for school lunches.

Reuse

• Choose refillable beverage and food containers.

• Get crafty. Make your own cloth napkins from fabric scraps.

• View a full line of eco lunch box designs at www.reuseit.com or www.wastefreelunches.org.

Recycle

• Recycle cans, #1 to 5 and #7 plastic containers and cartons in the lunchroom.

• Bring containers home if recycling is not available at school.

Choose one of the following things to do this month and become better prepared for a disaster.

• Connect with an isolated individual in your neighborhood or start a neighborhood organization. The elderly or those with disabilities may have trouble getting out of the house and may not have much contact with the outside world. People may also be isolated just because they are new to the area or their work hours keep them from meeting their neighbors. Take time to meet them. Help them make a plan for emergencies and include checking on them in your plan.

• Promote emergency preparedness in your community.

GET INVOLVED

When people are willing to work together for the good of others, communities are stronger. A resilient community is one that can withstand a disaster and quickly get back to normal, even if normal isn’t the same as it was before.

Organizations that promote emergency preparedness make their community better able to withstand and recover from disaster. Here are some suggestions for involving your organization:

• Include a Do One Thing preparedness topic in newsletters or on bulletin boards each month.

• Talk to your scout troop leader about how Do One Thing activities can be used toward a preparedness badge.

• Get a group together to make emergency kits for seniors or kids who stay home alone.

• Visit the www.do1thing.com website to see how other organizations are promoting preparedness in their communities.

www.facebook.com/TheWoodlandsCERT

• Become a volunteer in your community.

There are many places to volunteer in your community.

CERT, The American Red Cross and The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch are a few. Many police and fire departments use volunteers to help with special projects, events or programs. The American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other organizations train volunteers to work in disasters.

Community preparedness starts at home. If you know that your family is prepared at home, you will be better able to help others in your community.

www.twitter.com/WoodlandsCERT

www.pinterest.com/twcert

RECYCLE BEYOND THE ORDINARY

START SAVING NOW! 3R Bazaar

The Village Recycling Challenge goes beyond the curb to recycle unusual items.

Start saving toothpaste tubes with caps, toothbrushes and floss containers from any manufacturer for the Oral Care Brigade in partnership with Terracycle.®

Visit The Woodlands Township Environmental Services at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive or call 281-210-3800 for a handy collection bag.

Bring saved items to your village booth at the 3R Bazaar Saturday, November 12, 2016, to be entered into a drawing for individual prizes. Villages will receive a donation to their scholarship fund based on resident participation.

For more information about the event and collection guidelines, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment and click on Environmental Events

no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish,