August 2020

On the Cover

Did you know that the trees in The Woodlands Town Center are lit almost year-round? Each year in the early fall, the lights are removed so that the trees can be pruned, and then the lights are replaced for the late fall and holiday seasons. So, if you notice a few lights missing in the near future, you can rest assured they are not suffering from COVID-19 and will be replaced soon. The Woodlands Community Magazine hopes this festive photo brings you some cheer during these not-so-festive times. It is also a reminder of the many services provided by The Woodlands Township. Please see the article on page 22.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

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

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Selects Jeff Jones to Serve as Next President/General Manager

Aftera national search, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors has named Jeff Jones, pictured, to serve as the Township’s next President/General Manager, effective August 31, 2020.

Mr. Jones brings over 25 years of local government experience to The Woodlands Township, including his current position as Deputy City Manager for the City of Mesquite, a large suburb of Dallas that, like The Woodlands, spans two counties.

“In a field of well-qualified candidates, the Board selected Mr. Jones for his enthusiasm and visionary approach to The Woodlands future. He has the skills and experience needed to help guide The Woodlands moving forward as we near community buildout, and navigate impacts of COVID-19 while potentially incorporating into a City. Mr. Jones has directly supervised all facets of a City including Police, Firefighters, Public Works, Parks, Recreation, Economic Development, Waste Management, Sewer, Water, Municipal Airport, Planning and Zoning. We are excited that Mr. Jones will join our executive management team with the goal of continuing to improve an already awesome The Woodlands,” said Gordy Bunch, Chairman of The Woodlands Township.

Mr. Jones holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) in City Administration from Texas Tech University and is an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager. Mr. Jones brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previous success managing nearly all aspects of several high performing communities, including experience in economic development projects and innovative approaches to service delivery.

continued on page 6

Gordy Bunch Chairman

No. 1

Bruce Rieser Vice Chairman Position No. 4

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Director, Position No. 5

Jason J. Nelson Director, Position No. 2

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary Position No. 6

Bob Milner Director Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer Position 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

Graphic Designers

Cheryl Kirsch

Jim Callahan

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations

Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor

Copy Editors

Kacie Gurney

Perry Frank

Shelby Doerries

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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

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

www.championsprinting.com

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

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

Virtual and in-person DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS

We’re still here for you

Even during these challenging times, Houston Methodist doctor offices are open and seeing patients who need our care. Though your appointment may not look like a typical appointment, our providers may see you via video visit, telephone or in person, when needed. Rest assured, we are taking every precaution to ensure we can safely see you and meet all your health care needs.

houstonmethodist.org/hereforyou

936.270.3333

The selection of Mr. Jones as President/General Manager was the culmination of a national search that resulted in 55 applications.

“I want to extend my gratitude to Chairman Bunch and the Board of Directors for their support in selecting me as the next President and General Manager,” Mr. Jones said. “The Board’s passion for The Woodlands and their commitment to improving upon what is already a very high quality of life were factors that really drew me to the position. This is not only a tremendous professional opportunity; it is a true honor and blessing.”

Mr. Jones will replace retiring President/General Manager Don Norrell, who has served The Woodlands community since 2006. Mr. Norrell will continue employment until September 6, 2020.

Mr. Norrell has guided the staff of the community’s primary municipaltype service providers through a historic governance transition that created The Woodlands Township as it exists today. During Mr. Norrell’s tenure, the Township has balanced revenues and expenditures while maintaining or enhancing services, maintaining excellent bond ratings and establishing appropriate reserves. This strategy has provided the Township with the flexibility to respond to unexpected events and changing economies.

“We are truly grateful for Mr. Norrell’s contribution to The Woodlands Township and appreciative of his time to

help the Township transition during these times,” Chairman Bunch said.

Jeff Jones Bio

Jeff Jones serves as Deputy City Manager for the City of Mesquite, Texas, a community of 145,000 residents that spans both eastern Dallas and western Kaufman counties. Prior to his current position, Jones served as Mesquite’s Assistant City Manager.

Since joining the City of Mesquite in 2016, Jones has provided oversight of the Police, Fire, Public Works, Planning and Development, Economic Development, Parks and Recreation, Human Resources and Risk Management departments, as well as the Mesquite Metro Airport and the Mesquite Arts Center.

During Jones’s time in Mesquite, the City accomplished many milestones including the addition of more than 3,000,000 square feet of new commercial property and 3,000 jobs to the local economy, achieving both state and National Main Street accreditation for Downtown Mesquite, a Comprehensive Land Use Plan and attracting significant private investment in the Metro Airport.

With a record of responsibility ranging from Public Safety to the Arts, Jones has managed and led expanding programming and upgrading of the Mesquite Arts Center, negotiating a contract extension for commercial solid waste services, reducing building permit processing time by more

than 60 percent, improving several fire stations (including the reconstruction of Fire Station No. 4), enhancing police recruitment, and negotiating two Meet and Confer Agreements with the Mesquite Police Association.

Throughout his 25-plus-year career, Jones has served four cities – two in Texas and two in Wyoming. Prior to joining Mesquite, Jones served the City of Hurst, Texas, a first-tier suburb of Fort Worth, where he led the effort to help revitalize the Hurst Town Center area with development of the Hurst Conference Center and, later, the adjoining Hilton hotel. Under his leadership, the city also garnered state and national awards for its marketing and communications initiatives.

Jones, a native of Casper, Wyo., earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and Sociology from Black Hills State University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Texas Tech. He is also a graduate of the Public Executive Institute of the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin. He is certified as a Credentialed Manager (CM) by the International City County Management Association (ICMA) and earned ICMA’s 25-year service award in 2019. Jones is also a member of the Texas City Management Association and the North Texas City Management Association. In 2003, he served as president of the Urban Management Assistants of North Texas.

THE WOODLANDS VISION

The Woodlands, our dynamic hometown within a natural forest, is known for its balance between man and nature. We are a thriving business community and a premier destination for visitors –a place where generations live, worship, work, learn and play.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Township Receives National Innovation Conservation Award

TheWoodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department was recently selected to receive a National Innovation in Conservation Award by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The award will be presented during the 2020 NRPA’s Virtual Annual Conference in October 2020.

The National Innovation in Conservation Award recognizes a

parks and recreation agency that has addressed a critical environmental need in their community and led an innovative project that creates localized solutions for addressing global or regional environmental challenges while helping educate residents along the way.

Conservation is rooted into the Township’s philosophy and guided by its

Environmental Services Division which bases its operations on three Pillars of Sustainability: Forest Health, Watershed Protection and Resource Diversion.

Over the past five years the Department has coordinated 479 conservation outreach programs with over 53,000 contact hours, dozens of educational media campaigns, and zero waste operations for 30 special events.

Township staff and volunteers worked side by side at the sixth annual Community Tree Planting event to help reforest a portion of the Creekside Park West Trailhead at the George Mitchell Nature Preserve. Please note, this photo was taken during the event on February 8, 2020, before the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The Woodlands Township November 3, 2020 Election

Positions Available

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2020 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 between July 18, 2020, and 5 p.m. on August 17, 2020. The deadline for filing a declaration of a write-in candidacy is 5 p.m. on August 21, 2020. Applications may be mailed to the Township Town Hall, Attention: Elections at 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, or delivered in person to said address, or submitted via facsimile to 281-210-3978 during the filing period. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, the Township offices are closed to the public; however, a secured drop box will be placed at the Town Hall office building for the purpose of submitting filing forms in person during the filing period. The drop box will be checked periodically during the filing period on regular business days during the Township’s office hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regardless of the method of delivery, an application is considered to be filed at the time of its receipt by the Township.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet. The Township anticipates contracting with Harris County and Montgomery County to conduct the election and to use the regular County polling locations for the election.

Qualifications for Township Director

• 18 years of age (as of November 3, 2020)

• Resident of The Woodlands Township for past six (6) months

• Resident of Texas for past twelve (12) months

• U.S. citizen

Disqualifications

• Mental Incompetence

• Conviction of Felony

Write-In Candidates

A Declaration of Write-In Candidacy must be filed not later than 5 p.m. on August 21, 2020.

Relevant Dates*

August 17, 2020 ..........

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

August 21, 2020............................

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

October 5, 2020 .................................

October 19, 2020

October 30, 2020

Last Day to Register to Vote

First Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

Last Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

November 3, 2020 ....................................................... 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.

Fall Maintenance Checklist

Fall is an ideal time of year to get your home and landscape in shape. Here are some quick tips to help you maintain your property:

ü Mow and edge the lawn.

ü Edge, weed and mulch all landscape beds.

ü Repair and replace broken fences.*

ü Remove mildew and algae from brick, siding, fences and driveway. Helpful hint: Periodic cleaning with a power washer containing only water may help prevent mildew and algae growth.

ü Repair and repaint damaged or faded siding.*

ü Remove pine needles, leaves and debris from roof. Remember, removing debris will improve the longevity of the roof, reduce fire hazard and discourage pests.

ü Remove all loose trash, debris and yard waste from the property. Visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/environment and click “Garbage, Recycling and Yard Trimmings” for information about garbage and yard trimming pickup.

ü Make sure trash and recycling carts are stored out of view.**

ü Winterize or turn off irrigation systems. Lean more about water conservation in The Woodlands at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/waterconservation.

* Color changes, roof replacement and fence replacement may need a permit. Contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/covenants for more information.

** All trash, refuse or recycling containers may be placed near the street edge no earlier than one day prior to waste collection. Emptied containers must be removed from the street, front yard or driveway by the end of the collection day. Containers must be stored on the owner’s property at all times. All trash and refuse containers must be stored out of public view at ground level from the street or alley or adjacent and surrounding properties at all times except during waste collection.

The Sod Webworm

By Tori Fluellen

From a creamy-white egg to an adult moth, sod webworms are prone to living in warmer areas such as Texas. These small insects are notorious for wreaking havoc to yards

and are known to habitat, especially in St. Augustine grass.

The sod webworm is the larval stage of a tiny, muddy-brown moth with triangular wings. With a wingspan of three-quarters of an inch, a female moth can lay up to several hundred eggs. They scatter the eggs on the grass blades in a zigzagged pattern. As the eggs develop into a greenish/ brown-spotted larva, they begin to feed on the stolons of grass, causing significant damage to turfgrass. Irregular dry, brown or gray patches throughout an area, usually near a curb, driveway or sidewalk indicate webworm damage.

If you suspect that webworms have invaded your lawn, you can check by digging into the soil of the

infected area or pouring soapy water in that area to draw the webworms to the surface. They feed in warm temperatures, typically during the summer months. Control them best when temperatures start to fall. The webworms will tunnel further into the soil and form a lightly spun webbing in the thatch that protects them from harsh weather.

Should you discover an infestation, use simple and harmless treatments for your yard. Safe and chemical-free applications of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), beneficial nematodes, fertilizing and watering, according to the Defined Irrigation Schedule, help defeat these pests. Apply these products during their most active feeding hours – at night. Additional applications may be required.

This article was provided by Woodlands Water. More information is available at www.woodlandswater.org.

Sod webworms can cause significant damage to lawns and grass. Irregular dry, brown or gray patches throughout an area, usually near a curb, driveway or sidewalk indicate webworm damage. Photos courtesy G. McIlveen, Jr., Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service

Residential Solid Waste Guidelines

The Woodlands Township contracts with Waste Management and Simple Recycling to provide cost effective and environmentally sound solid waste service. To ensure service, please follow these guidelines.

Curbside Guidelines

• Once per week collection of trash, recycling and yard trimmings.

• Pickup for bulky trash items or bulk cardboard must be scheduled.

• All collections occur on the same day of the week between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

• Allow 4 feet between carts and other waste items.

• The weight limit for each cart is 200 pounds. Cart lids must close.

Trash

• Excess household trash must be bagged and tagged with pink tags available at The Woodlands Township and local Kroger stores for $1.75 each. Each bag must not exceed 40 pounds.

• Please, no hazardous waste or construction debris.

Recycling

• Place accepted recyclables loose in the cart. DO NOT bag them.

• Empty and rinse containers.

• Only recycle accepted items. Refer to the image or graphic on the lid of your cart. Anything else is considered contamination. When in doubt, throw it out.

Yard Trimmings

• Leaves, grass and branches less than four (4) inches in diameter and four (4) feet long.

• Yard trimmings are composted. No trash, plastic bags, rocks, concrete, treated lumber. or bricks.

• Use certified compostable bags (ASTM-6400), paper craft bags, or an open container, such as a traditional trash can.

• Sticks may be bundled and tied with natural twine. Keep bundles under four (4) feet high and 40 pounds.

Bulky Trash

Schedule at least two business days before your regular service day by contacting Waste Management by calling 800-800-5804 or emailing cssatex@wm.com. This service is free.

• Items too large to fit in your 96-gallon trash cart if it were empty, including appliances, furniture and carpet (4-foot bundles, limit 2).

• No construction debris, household waste, yard trimmings or boxes/bags of loose items.

• Refrigerators, freezers and AC units must be certified Freon free.

• Up to 10 fence boards are accepted, if bundled and tied.

Bulk Cardboard Recycling

Cardboard in amounts too large for your recycle cart: Schedule two business days in advance by contacting Waste Management by calling 800-800-5804 or emailing cssatex@wm.com.

Bulk cardboard is collected for recycling once a month.

• Pickup for Alden Bridge, Cochran’s Crossing and Sterling Ridge occurs on the first Monday of the month.

• Pickup for College Park, Creekside Park, Grogan’s Mill, Indian Springs,

Panther Creek and Town Center occurs on the fourth Friday of the month.

State name, address, phone number, village, service day and description of items for pickup.

Request a confirmation number and keep it handy until service has occurred.

Textile Recycling

Simple Recycling offers free weekly curbside textile recycling of worn clothing, shoes and home goods. Place orange bags beside your carts on your regular service day. They will be picked up automatically (no call needed) and replacement bags will be left. To get started, request bags at www.SimpleRecycling.com or call 866-835-5068.

Report Missed Pickups

To report a missed pickup, please contact Waste Management at 800-800-5804 or cssatex@wm.com.

For More Information

For more information about waste services, recycling or for assistance with ongoing service issues, please contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800, email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov or visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/trashandrecycling.

August 2020

Stay in Touch with The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Township Website

The Woodlands Township website includes press releases, department information, an events calendar, emergency resources and more.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

To prepare for an emergency, the Township encourages residents to visit the Emergency Resources page on the website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency

To receive notifications from the Township during an emergency, please subscribe to Community Emergency Notifications. To receive regular notifications when news is posted to the Township website, please subscribe to Newsflash. Subscribers may receive alerts by email, text or both. Both options can be found on the Township website on the Notify Me page.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

Talk of the Township e-Newsletter

The e-newsletter is sent weekly via email and includes upcoming events, Board updates and more. During an emergency, it may be used to communicate messages to residents. Please subscribe on the Notify Me page of the website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

Follow Us on Social Media

The Woodlands Township has multiple social media channels to follow:

• www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship

• www.facebook.com/townshipparksandrec

• www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch

• www.twitter.com/thetownshiptx

• www.twitter.com/townshiptransit

• www.instagram.com/thetownshiptx

• www.linkedin.com/company/thewoodlandstownship

The Woodlands Community Magazine

The magazine is mailed monthly to residents of The Woodlands and is posted on the Township website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/magazine

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at 7 p.m. Meetings are scheduled at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest, however, as of this writing due to the pandemic issue, our meetings have been held virtually. Follow the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook or our website, www.aldenbridge.org for updates.

We’ll have one last 2020 Yard of the Month Award on September 1, 2020, so send your nominations for best front yard in our village to aldenbridgeyom@ gmail.com. Please submit your nominations no later than August 23, 2020.

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department has announced a new Village Challenge. As part of the Plant for Pollinators Program, residents who register a garden between June 1 and December 1, 2020, will earn a point for their village. The top three villages will be awarded a cash donation for their village scholarship fund. As pollinators face a serious population decline due to habitat loss, pesticide and herbicide use and climate change, planting a pollinator garden is one way you can support bees, butterflies and many more pollinators. View www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ plantforpollinators for more information on the Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge or to register your garden.

Mark your calendar and get ready to explore the 3R Bazaar at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, set for November 14, 2020, from 8 a.m. to noon. Shop the market and discover opportunities to reduce waste, reuse creatively and recycle more in our community. Shop local artists featuring re-purposed materials or create your own up-cycled masterpiece. While you are there, support the Alden Bridge Village Association by bringing

batteries (alkaline AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) for free recycling. Participating villages will receive a scholarship donation based on the amount collected on the day of the event.

Our monthly email newsletter is distributed to more than 1,000 residents. Please send us your email address so you can receive the most current news of Alden Bridge. Your email address will not be shared and will be used solely to distribute news of our village. Also, remember to like our Facebook page and check our website for news between newsletters at www.aldenbridge.org.

Your business can be publicized in the newsletter, on Facebook and on the website – we actively seek sponsors to help fund our scholarship program, and in return for your donation, we’ll help you reach Alden Bridge residents. Just email abvainfo@gmail.com for all the specifics.

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

College Park

The College Park Village Association continues to meet and plan via Zoom. While most, if not all, activities have been suspended indefinitely, we continue to plan our fall events. We will keep you informed through our website and social media.

Of particular interest at our June meeting, we learned that we can do better at crime prevention in College Park. Each month we receive a crime report from Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office for the preceding month. We learned that of the eight motor vehicle burglaries reported in College Park in May, no forced entry was apparent, leaving the conclusion that the vehicles were unlocked, and the burglar had easy access to the contents of the vehicle. It is fortunate that, in some cases, purses and wallets were recovered.

Lock your car. Remove personal items and take them with you, or lock them in the trunk where they are out of sight. Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity to 9-1-1.

You may also request a vacation watch of your home if you are going to be out of town for an extended period. The Sheriff’s Office initiative, the #9PMRoutine, is also a good idea. Before retiring for the night, lock your car doors, secure valuables, enable alarms and remove firearms and spare keys from the car. All data presented at our meetings is available on the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office website.

The Township has added a GIS map to their 311 app. The GIS map brings you access to the parks and pathways map and indicates locations of playgrounds and art benches. Try it for an outdoor activity during COVID-19.

We are reminded that blood donations are needed. Check the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center website for donation sights near you. There are often mobile units at a location that makes it convenient to give blood.

You may have noticed the growing presence of bandit signs. These are signs put along the roadways to solicit business. While they are prohibited according to our covenants, Township Covenant Administration has been lenient in enforcement during the pandemic. You can still report them, especially if they are deteriorating or in disrepair.

Please continue to collect your used batteries for America Recycles coming in November. Also, please plan to sign the Water-Wise pledge again this fall. College Park received a $750 reward because you are the most water-wise residents. This money goes toward our scholarship program.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Creekside Park

As businesses begin to reopen from the COVID-19 situation, Creekside Park Village continues to grow with additional options for entertainment in our area:

• Avanti Italian Bistro

• Lovebeans Coffee House

• Baja Sur Fresh-Mex Tequila Bar coming soon to the Cinépolis movie complex

• Two new fitness concepts coming that will offer a variety of classes targeting strength, agility, flexibility and balance:

– Yoga 6 – Row House

A “Best-in-Class” 7-Eleven has been built on the corner of Kuykendahl and Creekside Forest and plans are to open summer of 2020.

We are excited that the following amenities are available in Creekside, as of press time:

• Sunny Dayz camp resumed operations at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park on June 15, 2020.

• Texas TreeVentures has re-opened, with limited capacity.

• Be sure to visit the George Mitchell Nature Preserve with your families. There are two entrances to the preserve, Ann Snyder Road on the west side, and on the east side you can enter the trails behind The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. There are miles of nature trails for everyone to enjoy.

• Wentwoods Pool is open, with limited swimmer capacity.

• The spraygrounds have reopened in Creekside Park Village Center, so bring your children out on these hot summer days to enjoy.

Schools are scheduled to reopen August 18, 2020, so a reminder to be careful of young children traveling to and from schools.

As a reminder, we are now in hurricane season and the weather forecasters are expecting an active season this year. Please be prepared to protect your families and property should one come through our area of the Gulf Coast.

If you are traveling during the summer months, remember to sign up for vacation watch with our great Precinct 4 Constables. If you are staying in The Woodlands, look for events and happenings on our Creekside Park Village Facebook page or our website, www.creeksideparkvillage.com.

Until next time…

Submitted by Carol Radice

Grogan’s Mill

The excessive use of ground water by well pumping has caused subsidence in Southern Montgomery County. Several areas in Grogan’s Mill Village near Spring Creek are impacted by this subsidence. The use of surface water for the last several years has stopped the subsidence. Lonestar Ground Water Conservation District has proposed future plans that increase the use of groundwater under the village. Several MUD Directors have been working on locating a subsidence measuring device in the village. This is progressing well with the Woodlands Water Agency taking the lead and the Village Association has voted to provide $1,000 toward securing the measuring device. Also, the Association will continue to oppose the plan to increase the additional ground water well pumping plan.

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services yearly continued on next page

VILLAGE WEBSITES

ALDEN BRIDGE

www.aldenbridge.org

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

www.cochranscrossing.com

COLLEGE PARK

www.villageofcollegepark.com

CREEKSIDE PARK

www.creeksideparkvillage.com

GROGAN’S MILL

www.grogansmillvillage.com

INDIAN SPRINGS

www.indianspringsvillage.com

PANTHER CREEK

www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

STERLING RIDGE

www.sterling-ridge.org

challenge is on! This year the challenge is to collect old batteries. The batteries being collected are single use batteries such as AA, AAA batteries. We are unable to accept lithium, silver oxide or lithium primary batteries. The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is a designated drop-off point for the used batteries. Look for the orange bins in the middle of the market.

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. The contest ends in November, so bring your batteries all year! The village could win up to $1,000 which we use to support schools and student scholarships in Grogan’s Mill.

Residents are invited to register their garden or yard and to share what actions they have taken to protect bees, butterflies, moths and other pollinators. Registered gardens or yards should provide for these basic needs of pollinators: food, shelter, water and a chemical-free space for pollinators to thrive. The Garden Registration form can be found at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ plantforpollinators. You can find milkweed and other pollinator plants at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market. All registrations receive a free gift of a window cling declaring that this property has a registered garden.

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market has great deals on fruits, vegetables, honey, olive oil, crafts, food, and more at the Woodlands Farmer’s Market. 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. 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 Andrew Coakley and Jennifer Robinson

Panther Creek

In a summer that has been, to say the least, unique, Panther Creek residents are making the most of it. Between discovering ways to help neighbors, watching more movies on TV and getting some of those overdue home projects done, we are contending with the pandemic.

For several years, Panther Creek Village Association has had a scholarship program for local students. Village association board member Kevin Currey has diligently worked with local schools to select worthy candidates. Based upon community involvement, need and academic excellence, we have awarded two financial scholarships this year. Look in this column in the next issue for their names and pictures. Your participation in community events helps fund these awards.

Another delightful thing has been happening to those who enjoy our 200+ miles of walkway paths. They have been spotting small rocks painted with whimsical designs or positive messages. You are invited to discover and view them and also to create your own to place for others to enjoy discovering. See inspiring examples now at The Woodlands Rocks or The Woodlands Kindness Rocks, both on Facebook.

Panther Creek Village Association serves as your first line of contact with the many agencies and governmental organizations that make The Woodlands work. Your input is needed to make sure that our hometown continues to do its best for you and your family. Learn about the many things going on that affect you and your neighbors in Panther Creek and be an active voice in your community. Our monthly meetings are usually held at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Visit us at www. panthercreekvillageassociation.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

By Teri MacArthur

How green is your village?

“Theworld is a fine place and worth fighting for.” Earnest Hemingway said it best. Within our forests, green belts and even our backyards, there is a fight taking place. One that we can all help with: the fight to keep invasive plant species at bay.

Invasive plants are aliens, species that exist in habitats outside of their native environment. Introduced accidentally or intentionally, these plants establish themselves, spread and eventually out-compete native species. They change the soil chemistry, impact water quality, alter food webs and transform native habitats.

Invasive vines are a particular menace here in The Woodlands. As they grow unimpeded, they rob nutrients from the soil, block sunlight and smother their native host. The food sources and shelter that native wildlife depends upon are sacrificed in the process.

All is not lost, however. Each of us can take important steps to help in this fight. Start by keeping invasives out of your home landscape. Many species, such as Japanese honeysuckle, nandina and Asian jasmine are available for purchase. Shop your local nursery’s native plant section to avoid this misstep. If invasive plants already reside in your landscape, consider replacing them with a native. You’ll prevent their unwanted spread and enjoy the wildlife that your new plant invites.

When you’re ready to take the fight beyond the backyard, support Township efforts by reporting invasive species when you see them. Not sure which ones are the bad guys? Consult HARC Research’s The Quiet Invasion (www.galvbayinvasives.org). This handy identification guide will help you identify Japanese climbing fern, air potato vine, pepper vine and other species of particular concern in our area. Report your sightings through The Woodlands 311 app; it will pinpoint

your location for you. Township staff and Invasive Task Force volunteers will get to work on removal.

Now, consider taking it one step further and join the Invasives Task Force. The battle against invasives is a big one, but this corps of trained volunteers is helping to turn the tide. As one volunteer puts it, “The part of vine removal that is always rewarding to me is uncovering our beautiful native species in the understory and to followup restoration with natives. In the end, I see the mission of the Task Force as to preserve the character of The Woodlands as a remnant forest on the

edge of the Pineywoods. The Woodlands is a city ‘in the forest,’ not just another suburban subdivision.”

Interested in becoming an Invasives Task Force volunteer? Join the next training class for volunteers on Saturday, August 15, 2020. To register, or to view any scheduling updates due to COVID-19, please visit The Woodlands Township’s Calendar of Events at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ calendarofevents.

Whether you’re in the backyard, trail or classroom, keep up the good fight. The health of our natural community depends on all of us.

Photos courtesy Kathie Herrick.

Elephant ears and other invasive plants can be found along the paths of The Woodlands.

Residents are hard at work removing air potato vines.

If you frequent The Woodlands Waterway, or The Woodlands Town Center area in general, then you’ve grown accustomed to seeing many of the trees wrapped in lights. A longstanding program in Town Center, the wrapped trees help to light the streets and pathways at night and bring a warm, even festive feel to the area –contributing to the unique look and appeal of the Waterway District.

So where have they all gone?

Fear not! Each year, during the first half of August, The Woodlands Township’s tree lighting contractor removes all tree light strands from the approximately 550 wrapped trees all around Town Center streets and parks, and at the same time Howard Hughes Corporation’s selected contractor does the same for another 450 wrapped trees along The Woodlands Waterway and in Hughes Landing. The lights are removed annually so that each tree can be safely inspected and trimmed as needed for the coming year.

By Karl Shaw

THE WOODLANDS TOWN CENTER Tree Lighting Program

Between now and the end of September, visitors will notice tree trimming and pruning happening en masse throughout the Town Center as workers prepare these trees for another year of growth. As always, staff works conscientiously to maintain the balance between urban needs and George Mitchell’s vision of environmental sustainability. As such, each tree is also inspected for overall health. The tree limbs are generally thinned as appropriate, dead limbs removed, and any limb growth below a point seven feet from ground level is taken out to maintain a safe viewing corridor and walkways along the streets, in parks and along The Waterway. Signage and area lighting are also considered. The youngest trees, which are replaced at a minimum starting height of about 10 feet tall, are typically not trimmed or wrapped at all for the first year after being re-planted to reduce possibility of further loss. All tree trimming is done

by professional contractors working either for The Woodlands Township or Howard Hughes Corporation directly and special care is taken to avoid any unnecessary loss of greenery.

In October, the tree lights return! By about October 1 each year, all the tree lights will have been replaced and turned on again, lighting up the first 15 linear feet of each of the selected trees. Nearly all 1,000 wrapped trees in The Woodlands utilize energy efficient LED light strands for durability, safety and sustainability, and are inspected at least weekly during the lighted season. Light strands themselves are manually loosened at least twice each year to allow for natural tree growth.

Town Center Rangers and chosen contractors will work together for the next 10 months to make sure that the lights stay on, the trees stay healthy and the nighttime experience we have all come to expect in The Woodlands Town Center is maintained for residents of, and visitors to, our dynamic hometown.

The Woodlands Waterway and Town Center are home to nearly 1,000 illuminated trees. From August through September, the trees will be trimmed and pruned to allow for healthy growth during the next year. Lights will return in October.

Photos by Karl Shaw

Maybe you haven’t seen a skunk around, but you’ve probably smelled one. Their defensive odor earns them a nasty reputation with some, but there is a lot to like about the common skunk. These chemical warriors prefer to live a peaceful life of foraging and avoid encounters with people and they do us some great services. Let’s learn a little more about our two local skunk species: Striped and Eastern Spotted.

Fast Facts

• Skunks are immune to snake venom.

• Their spray, called musk, is accurate from 10 feet away.

• Skunks live an average of only three years in the wild.

What do they look like?

• The striped skunk is about the size of an average housecat, with black fur and white on the top of the head and neck that splits into two stripes at the shoulder and run the length of the body.

• The eastern spotted skunk is about half the size of a striped skunk, or similar in size to a squirrel, with many white spots or short white streaks.

What do they eat?

• Nocturnal foragers whose diet consists primarily of grubs, grasshoppers, crickets and beetles,

Creature Feature: Skunks

By Amber Barnes

When suddenly frightened or threatened, skunks spray an oily, yellow sulfur-alcohol compound. Before spraying, skunks give warning to a potential predator by foot stamping, hissing, raising its tail toward it and performing a handstand.

skunks will also eat earthworms, small rodents, reptiles, eggs, fish, mushrooms, berries and fruit.

What eats them?

• Coyotes, foxes, dogs and big owls, like the great horned owl.

• Predators are mostly kept at bay by the potent musk. Only about five percent of skunk mortality is caused by predators, with disease as the primary cause of death. An outbreak of rabies can kill 80 percent of a regional skunk population in less than one year. Pneumonia, distemper, parasitic infestations, winter starvation and cars all take a toll.

Why do we need them?

Valuable garden allies, these natural pest control heroes feast on crickets, grasshoppers, beetles, grubs, small rodents and moles.

Want more information?

Need help removing a skunk, concerned about a possible rabid skunk, or looking for an odor-removing recipe? Check out The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department Blog for more information on skunks and resources for safe encounters with wildlife at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment. Choose Visit Our Blog.

Striped skunk

Eastern spotted skunk

The Woodlands 311 is the official mobile app for The Woodlands Township. The app is a free, easy-to-use platform for community members to stay in touch with the Township.

✓ Submit Service Requests

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 pinpoint the problem.

✓ Track Your Requests

Track the progress of your request through the mobile app or on the Township website.

✓ Access Township Information

Use the in-app widgets to find important information about Township services, events, public facilities and more.

✓ Try the New Parks and Pathways Map Now improved with location and GIS functions.

app

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/mobileapp

MyWoodlands

Service

Nearby Requests

Township News Township Calendar

FALL BOAT HOUSE SCHEDULE

By Karl Shaw

Get out on the water again before summer ends! The Woodlands Township’s boat houses are open daily through Sunday, August 9, 2020, and then will transition to the fall operations schedule.

Beginning Monday, August 10, 2020, the boat houses are only open five days a week.

August 1 to August 9, 2020

Open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Last boat out at 7 p.m.

Lakes Edge Boat House closed on Tuesday; Riva Row Boat House closed on Wednesday

August 10 to December 31, 2020

Open 9 a.m. to Sunset

Last boat out one hour before sunset

Lakes Edge and Riva Row closed on both Tuesday* and Wednesday*

*open Thanksgiving Week

Fall Holidays

Open normal hours: Labor Day, Halloween, Veterans Day and Friday after Thanksgiving

Open until 4 p.m.: New Year’s Eve

Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Pricing

KAYAK RENTALS

• Standard Single Kayak, first hour $15

• Standard Tandem (double) Kayak, first hour $20

• Single Pedal Kayak, first hour $20

• Tandem Pedal Kayak, first hour $30

PADDLEBOARD RENTALS

• Stand-Up Paddleboard, first hour $20

• Elliptical Paddleboard, first hour $30

SPECIALTY BOAT RENTALS

• Swan Pedal Boat, first hour $25

• Water Bike, first hour $25

ALL VESSELS

• Each Additional Hour $5

• Lifejackets and paddles included

Save Time in Line!

The Woodlands Township offers an online waiver system that allows guests to move quickly through the equipment rental lines at the boat houses. All participants (minors and pets included) must complete a waiver before they go out on the water. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov and search “Boat House Waiver” to complete a waiver for every person in your group. Once completed, the liability remains active for at least the following year, or until the person turns 18 (whichever comes first).

Please note all activities are subject to cancellation or rescheduling, pending local, state and federal Orders or Declarations, related to COVID-19.

Photos by Karl Shaw and Erica Dunn

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Upcoming Events

Reserve your spot at

All classes are free. Classes marked with an asterisk (*) require registration.

COVID-19 UPDATE Please refer to www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for potential changes in the location, time or format of these programs due to COVID-19. As with all Township-produced events, the safety of event participants, attendees, staff, volunteers, sponsors and spectators is the top priority. The Township will remain in close communication with local, state and federal partners and take further action as needed, based on the recommendations of these agencies. Residents are encouraged to follow the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)’s prevention strategies. If you suspect you are ill, please stay home except to seek medical care to prevent the spread of illness. Please visit www.cdc.gov/COVID19 for more information.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2020

Invasives Task Force Training*

9 a.m. to noon

Webinar

Learn how to identify and remove species of concern from our pathways and green spaces. This training prepares you to join the volunteer effort tackling this issue.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 2020

GreenUp: Fall Sweep*

All-Day Event

Various locations

Help keep The Woodlands clean. Our community-wide litter cleanup event needs YOU. Grab your gloves and bags and get ready for a day of community beautification. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment for tips and suggested cleanup sites.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2020

Walk in the Woods:

Damselflies and Dragonflies*

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center Bob Honig provides an up-close look at the raptors of the insect world. Find out about their prey and predators, and the important role they play in the water and on land.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2020

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions

9 a.m. to noon

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

The region’s premier gardening and landscaping event will be offered as a drive-through this year. No need to leave the car as you receive free native plants,

supplies and educational material to help you garden, save water, beautify your landscape, attract bees and butterflies and much more. Compost bins and rain barrels will be available for purchase. Supplies are limited; come early. A weeklong online education series follows. Learn best practices for gardening and lawn care from the experts.

EARLY OCTOBER

Walk to School

Multiple Elementary Schools

Join The Woodlands Township throughout the month of October as we observe International Walk to School Day. Learn safety tips for walking and biking and enjoy your local pathways. To view a calendar of Walk Days at local elementary schools, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ walktoschool.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2020

Smarter Choices Seminar: Healthy Landscapes = Healthy Waterways*

8 a.m. to noon

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

Strengthen your soil and reduce your chemicals for a more beautiful yard and a healthier environment.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2020

Walk in the Woods: The Spring Creek Nature Trail and the Importance of Conservation*

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center Bill Bass has captured the beauty of the trail through conservation photography. Learn about the fine balance between nature and development and how you

can support local conservation efforts taking place right in our own backyard.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2020

Rainwater Harvesting Workshop*

9 a.m. to noon

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

Rainscaping is the new irrigation. From rainwater barrels to rain gardens, learn how to set up simple capture systems at home.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2020

Walk in the Woods: Friends of Texas Wildlife*

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

Join Cathie Coudert, education coordinator from Friends of Texas Wildlife. This organization rescues hurt and abandoned wildlife and teaches us how to act responsibly when we encounter wildlife. Cathie will speak to what rehabbers do and how the community can coexist with wildlife.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020

3R Bazaar

8 a.m. to noon

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

This annual community recycling event provides opportunities to recycle items not accepted in your curbside cart: oral care products, textiles, eyewear, and new this year, snack and drink pouches. Residents are encouraged to bring used batteries for the annual Village Association Recycling Challenge. Paper shredding will be available for a suggested $5 donation or five cans of food to benefit Interfaith of The Woodlands Food Pantry. No businesses.

New Resident Tool Kit

Welcome to The Woodlands! The New Resident Tool Kit, located on the Township website, includes information about the Board of Directors, contact information for local services and agencies, printable brochures and rack cards, interactive maps, links to Township programs and more. The Township invites you to utilize the New Resident Tool Kit and to keep in touch with the Township through the website and social media accounts.

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2020. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

WHERE DO YOU GO WHEN THE HAMMER MISSES

THE NAIL AND FINDS YOURS?

Our ER is Open. Ready. And Safe.

Emergencies are one-of-a-kind events. You don’t know when, or how, or where they’re going to happen. But you do know that when an emergency takes place, you’ll want an Emergency Room you can count on.

Especially now, when our community continues to battle COVID-19, you need to know that there’s a hospital ER that’s open, ready, and safe for you and your family. And we are. For more information, visit us at StLukesHealth.org/Here-Always.