September 2014

On the Cover

Cover

by Susan

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

the woodlands township

Board Message

The Woodlands Township has been awarded a grant to purchase 25 new buses for The Woodlands Express, regarded as one of the most successful commuter bus services in the country. The competitive grant is administered by the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) and funded by the Federal Transit Administration.

This is great news for the Township, as this will allow for ownership of the bus fleet instead of leasing through a third party. The ownership will also provide operational savings that could be used for a variety of different transit improvements.

A study currently being conducted by the Township and H-GAC will provide options to the Township to improve future transit service operations. Alternatives being considered include potential reverse commute service and a new commuter service to the uptown-Galleria area.

With large companies like ExxonMobil moving operations north and the growing congestion in the Houston area, demand for this kind of alternative mode of commuting has never been higher. The Township looks forward to the opportunity to better serve residents and businesses with safe, reliable commuting options.

The Woodlands Express is a commuter bus service operating from three Park and Ride lots in The Woodlands. Each workday, frequent service is provided to and from several stops in Houston’s Central Business District, Greenway Plaza and the Medical Center.

Gordy Bunch

Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass

Position No. 2 Director

Jeff Long Position No. 3 Director

John McMullan Position No. 5 Director

Bruce Tough

Position No. 7 Chairman

Peggy S. Hausman

Position No. 6 Vice Chairman

Ed Robb Position No. 4 Secretary

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

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

Look for us in Houston

You won’t find us anywhere else .

Only in Texas.

By Susan Martin

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

êê COMMUNITY SAFETY EXPO êêêêêêê 2014 êêêê

Everyone is invited to experience the lights and sirens of public safety at the National Night Out Community Safety Expo. This free hands-on event, coordinated by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department, offers fun to residents of all ages. Get up close and personal with public safety personnel and equipment from local, state and federal agencies, ask questions and learn about what they do.

• See Homeland Security’s tank

• Climb inside an ambulance, fire truck and patrol car

• Explore the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Mobile Command units

• Try on SWAT and FBI gear

• Watch live demonstrations from narcotic, explosive and apprehension K-9s

• Test your skills on the texting-while-driving simulator or drunk-driving simulator

• Meet real crime scene investigators and Texas Rangers

The kids will surely love the bounce house, face painting, balloon artists, games, crafts and hanging out with McGruff the Crime Dog and the other mascots that will help celebrate National Night Out. H-E-B will supply hot dogs, hamburgers and refreshments to complete the celebration.

Free parking will be available across from Northshore Park at 9320 Lakeside Blvd., and the Eco Taxi will be available to safely help shuttle residents to the park entrance.

NEIGHBORHOOD PARTIES

The celebration continues with the National Night Out neighborhood parties on Tuesday, October 7, 2014. Residents are encouraged to gather between 5:30 and 8 p.m. on their street or in a nearby park to meet neighbors and local public safety officials. Bringing neighbors together is one of the most effective ways to prevent crime. How a neighborhood celebrates is up to the people who live there; it can be something as simple as popsicles for the kids or a more advanced theme and potluck dinner. Local law enforcement

and The Woodlands Fire Department will briefly visit with residents of many of those neighborhoods who register their party with the Township. To register a party, call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click on National Night Out.

After registering a party online, residents can pick up party supplies at Supply and Registration Day on Thursday, September 25, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., Board Chambers entrance. Available supplies may include balloons, giveaways, yard signs, party ideas and more.

FOOD DRIVE

Nonperishable food items collected at a National Night Out party can be dropped off directly at Interfaith between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Wednesday, October 8, 2014, through Friday October 10, 2014. Please make sure to mention National Night Out when giving your donation to Interfaith. Together we CAN make a difference to alleviate hunger in South Montgomery County!

I.D. THE BURGLAR VILLAGE CHALLENGE

This fun contest is designed to promote neighborhood cooperation, crime prevention awareness and to test a person’s skill and accuracy in identifying a suspect. A burglar, along with a “good guy” will be escorted by a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy to your neighborhood party. Your neighborhood must then work as a team to help identify the burglar! Any neighborhood interested in participating in this challenge must register by September 16, 2014. One party from each village will be drawn from the parties registered to participate in the challenge. The selected parties will be notified and given the materials to participate.

Other contests include a theme party contest (one winner per village) and early bird party registration prizes. For more information on these National Night Out events, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ NationalNightOut.

K-9 Hap shows off his specialized skills at Windsor Hills National Night Out party.

Children can climb aboard Homeland Security’s MRAP tank.

Children step up to try on SWAT and FBI gear.

Volunteers share information with their neighbors at the Harper’s Landing National Night Out party.

By Lucinda Valdes

A Spray of Revives the Landscape

Complimenting exquisite azure flowers, the reddish-tinged, deeply veined leaves of mistflower are almost arrowheadshaped with toothed margins. The nectarrich blooms of blue mistflower invite Monarchs and other fall butterflies to a shady garden.

By the end of a grueling Texas summer, most garden flowers—and the gardeners tending them—have either faded or fried. As refreshing as a tall glass of ice tea, blue mistflower (Conoclinium [Eupatorim] coelestinum) arrives, reviving late summer gardens with a cooling burst of azure. The blue of the blossom is so unique, botanists cannot agree: Is it sky blue, powder blue, azure, pink-blue or

lavender? Perhaps, exquisite is the most appropriate descriptor for this water-wise Texas native perennial.

Fuzzy dense clusters, comprising 30-70 individual, dainty flowers, appear to float atop the sometimes sprawling stems. Gorgeous in their own right, the blossoms add even more beauty by attracting fall butterflies to the garden. The nectar of native mistflower is especially favored by Monarchs migrating through The Woodlands at this time of year.

Often called wild ageratum because of its resemblance to annual Ageratum, this native perennial is a carefree alternative to the finicky nursery plant. Well-adapted to heat and humidity, blue mistflower tolerates both poor drainage and drought, unlike the annual plant. The native is also fairly free of disease and insect pests. Recommended for gardens battling foraging mammals, mistflower’s bitter leaves are unappetizing to deer and rabbits.

A reliable bloomer from late summer to frost, blue mistflower can be spotted growing naturally at the edge of the woods, in moist meadows and along ditches. In a garden setting, mistflower performs best in light shade, growing from one to three feet tall. Cut mistflower back in late spring to encourage branching and increase the already profuse blooming. Like many native perennials, mistflower goes dormant following a hard freeze and appreciates irrigation during particularly dry spells.

Let the ethereal beauty of mistflower revive your garden! Learn more about this and other outstanding plants for southeast Texas gardens at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions on Saturday, September 27, 2014, from 9 a.m. to noon at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/gardeningevents, or contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services office at 281-210-3800.

Reseeding freely, mistflower spreads readily, but is easily controlled.

Above photos courtesy of Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center by Andy and Sally Wasowski, Carolyn Fannon

Photo by Andy and Sally Wasowski

Poolpost-seasonSchedule

All pools will be open Labor Day, Monday, September 1, from noon to 6 p.m.

POST-SEASON WEEKEND HOURS

Saturdays: Noon to 6 p.m., Sundays: 1 to 6 p.m. September 6-7, September 13-14, September 20-21, and September 27-28, 2014.

R Cranebrook

R Creekwood

R Forestgate

R Harper’s Landing

R Lakeside

R Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

POST-SEASON WEEKDAY HOURS: BEAR BRANCH POOL ONLY

R Sawmill

R Shadowbend

R Wendtwoods

Mondays through Fridays: Noon to 6 p.m., Wednesday: CLOSED August 25 to 29 and September 1 to 5, 2014, only.

Although the summer pool season has ended, it’s still warm enough to take advantage of many of the pools in The Woodlands on weekends. Please note the post-season schedule for your enjoyment.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools

I chose the MD Anderson close to me

- Gary Truver, Jr.

When I had cancer, the world’s leading care was right here.

My team of experts focused only on me and my cancer. They guided me through advanced MD Anderson treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials and support services. They customized a plan just for me. Three months after I completed treatment, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. MD Anderson was there for both of us. Having MD Anderson in our community kept me close to my wife and three boys, and my mom close to her grandsons. I chose the MD Anderson close to me. Find Your MD Anderson today.

Following on the heels of an uneventful year for West Nile virus in 2013, mosquitoes are once again garnering media attention nationally. Reminiscent of the frenzy chronicling the initial spread of West Nile virus across the country over a decade ago, concerns focus on mosquito-borne diseases that impact human health—West Nile virus, dengue fever and imported chikungunya.

On Thursday, September 11, 2014, at 7:30 p.m., Dr. Rudy Bueno, public health entomologist, shares the latest research on mosquitoes, disease concerns, natural control mechanisms and effective abatement measures at Back to the Future—Mosquito-Borne Disease. The free presentation will focus on the importance of local surveillance efforts and reveal how homeowners can reduce mosquitoes on their properties.

Approximately 55 mosquito species have been identified in the local area, each with a different behavior, ecology and biology. It is vital to “know your enemy,” Dr. Bueno stresses. “Knowing the habitat sites can help manage mosquitoes and their diseases.” Many mosquitoes are “homegrown,” breeding in standing water that can be found right around the home, he says.

A WALK IN THE WOODS

By Lucinda Valdes

– MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASE

Two mosquito species are most concerning. Culex quinquefaciatus, the Southern House mosquito, is a carrier of West Nile virus. According to Dr. Bueno, “This is one of the most active West Nile virus seasons, reminiscent of the earlier years.” Aedes albopictus, the Asian Tiger mosquito, is a vector of dengue and chikungunya.

High School, 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive. For information about the presentation, please call 281-210-3800. To learn more about mosquito abatement, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ mosquitoinfo.

An indicator species, blue jays are particularly susceptible to West Nile virus, Dr. Bueno says. If you should find a dead bird, do not touch it with bare hands. Spray with disinfectant, use a shovel to place in a sealed, plastic bag and dispose in the trash. For follow-up or additional information, report it to The Woodlands Township, Environmental Services, at 281-210-3800.

Promising an informative evening, the free presentation is a Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture. A free program of The Woodlands Township, the lecture series is sponsored by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Waste Management and Hilton Garden Inn hosted in the L.G.I. Lecture Hall at McCullough Junior

Photo courtesy

Dr. Bueno

Dr. Rudy Bueno

Photo by Anita Wren

Photo by Anita Howlett

A predatory mosquito, the elephant mosquito, Toxorhynchites, consumes other mosquito larvae in its larval stage and feeds on nectar as an adult— an example of natural mechanisms at work.

GIFTS FOR OUR COMMUNITY

in a Tree Cardinals

By Susan Schneider

Wendtwoods

Park is now graced with a new permanent sculpture, 3 Cardinals in a Tree Patrons of the park have Peter and Joanne Prasthofer to thank for their generous donation of the lovely sculpture. It is the work of sculptor Dale Rogers, who received the Best in Show award at the 2013 Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. Rogers has sculptures on public display in 65 other communities across 22 states, and is a fan of placing art in public venues. His lovely 3 Cardinals in a Tree fits well with the spirit of The Woodlands and is now nestled in its new home at Wendtwoods Park.

Photo by Susan Schneider

Peter and Joanne Prasthofer visit the new home of 3 Cardinals in a Tree, the work of sculptor Dale Rogers that the Prasthofers generously donated for the enjoyment of visitors to Wendtwoods Park.

september

Monday, September 1

Labor Day

Township offices closed No trash and recycling pickup

Tuesday, September 2

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, September 3

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Regular Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, September 4

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, September 5

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center 7 p.m.

281-210-3950

Event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, September 6

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) www.grogansmillvillage.com

Target Car Seat Check and Fingerprint Day

Target Parking Lot 1100 Lake Woodlands Drive 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

Arts in the Park Rob Fleming Park 2 to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, September 9

Heartsaver CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

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

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, September 11

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Ad Hoc Transportation Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 2 p.m.

281-210-3800

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

281-210-3886

FREE Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture

Back to the Future –Mosquito-Borne Disease

McCullough Junior High School, 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, September 12

Kid’s Night Out

6 to 10 p.m.

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center

5310 Research Forest Drive

$20 per child, siblings receive discount

Saturday, September 13

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Live at Night Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

Sunday, September 14

Concert in the Park

Gary Michael Dahl Band (R&B/Jazz)

Northshore Park

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, September 15

Pollution Prevention Week

September 15-21

For more information, please visit www.p2.org.

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, September 16

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Going Green Sustainability Lecture

The Future of Transportation in The Woodlands: What’s Next?

South Regional Library

2101 Lake Robbins Drive

7 p.m.

281-363-2723

www.thewoodlandsgreen.org

Wednesday, September 17

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, September 18

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Planning Session

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11 a.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, September 19

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

Event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, September 20

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

National Night Out Public Safety Expo

Northshore Park Noon to 3 p.m.

See page 6.

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

Sunday, September 21

Concert in the Park

Black Dog (Led Zeppelin Tribute Band)

Northshore Park

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, September 22

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Woodlands Cup Golf Tournament

Benefitting the Village Associations Panther Trails Golf Course

The Woodlands Resort 8 a.m.

www.woodlandscup.com

Tuesday, September 23

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3887

continued on page 21

Holiday Garbage Collection

There will be no pick-up on Labor Day (Monday, September 1, 2014). Neighborhoods that usually receive collection on Monday will have their service delayed by one day, so that Monday’s route will receive service on Tuesday. All subsequent routes for the rest of the week will also be delayed by one day. All solid waste services are affected. Regular service will resume on Monday, September 8, 2014. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment.

Pollution Prevention Week - September 15-21, 2014

Pollution Prevention is simply source reduction. It is easier to prevent pollution than to clean it up afterwards. To observe Pollution Prevention Week pledge this year to take one action to improve water quality by picking up after your pet, minimizing use of pesticides and herbicides in your yard or by choosing compost or organic fertilizers as soil amendments instead of inorganic fertilizer. For more information on how you can observe P2 week at home, at school and at work, please visit www.p2.org.

www.p2.org

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

Hello again from Alden Bridge! September is usually one of our hottest months, so continue to keep cool in our community pools! The Lakeside Park pool will be open on weekends through September 28, but the Alden Bridge Park and Windvale pools are now closed.

The monthly Alden Bridge Residents Meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2014, at 7 p.m. at the Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our guest speaker will be announced closer to the date, so watch our website or Facebook page. Residents are encouraged to attend our meetings, so please bring us your questions, your praise and your problems. You can also send your concerns to info@aldenbridge.org

Our last Yard of the Month award went to the Avery family of Thistle Brook in Taylor Point. Congratulations to them on a beautiful yard. We award our last Yard of the Month winner for 2014 on September 1, 2014. After the Yard of the Month program finishes, we’ll still have awards for the Spookiest House and the best holiday decorations in our village.

Volunteers will be needed to represent Alden Bridge at the Fall Flea Market. All village associations share in the profits if we meet our quota of volunteers and our share goes directly to our scholarship fund. Please contact info@aldenbridge.org for additional information. This is a Saturday morning event, so you’ll still

have all afternoon for your own use, plus you get first look at all the goodies being offered for sale!

We continue to publish our monthly e-mail newsletter of village news. Please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org to join the mailing list. Your e-mail address will not be shared and will be used only to distribute news of Alden Bridge.

Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend and a September to remember!

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

The summer began with a splash for Cochran’s Crossing Village Association. The annual pool party was held at the Bear Branch Pool, and families from throughout The Woodlands enjoyed the cool pool and Kona Ice. Nancy Shock brought a mini petting zoo which included a variety of crawling “critters.” PhysiciansER was on hand in case there was any need for first-aid assistance. They also provided beach balls for play in the pool. Of course, pumping up the balls was a required exercise for kids at the party. In addition, Township staff members were on hand with information on what to do and where to go in The Woodlands during the summer.

The summer continued with July Fourth activities and participation in the parade. Now it is time to get ready for another annual event: the Cochran’s Crossing Fall Festival. It will be held

October 19, 2014, at the newly renovated Shadowbend Park in the afternoon.

Concerning business matters:

• The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Board has been asked to let residents of the village know there is a need for “Captain” with the Community Emergency Response Team. If a volunteer from the Cochran’s Crossing Village is identified and goes through CERT training, specific supplies for an emergency can then be stored at PhysiciansER and be available on a 24/7 basis.

• Charles Cobb, Precinct 3, Traffic Operations Manager, responded to an invitation to meet with the Cochran’s Crossing Board and discuss several matters of concern. This included evaluation of the timing of street lights to better match traffic flows depending on the time of day, problems of sensors on Lake Woodlands Drive, and the need for a flashing caution light on Shadowbend near Collins Intermediate (which also involves action by CISD).

Cochran’s Crossing residents cited many specific intersections and a thorough review was promised. Concerns with road striping were also mentioned and quick action was taken by the County after the meeting. Although there may not be direct responsibility for some concerns such as curb repair and restoration of parkways after road construction, residents may bring service requests to the attention of the County.

• Bob Dailey of the Woodlands Joint Powers Agency has informed the Board that concerns with wasteful watering can be reported to him at 832-813-6906 or bob@wjpa.org The Woodlands has a focus on water

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

conservation and an effort will be made to train and demonstrate ways to achieve better conservation.

Submitted

by

Gary Conwell

College Park

Hello residents — our summer days are coming to an end this month! Labor Day is our last summer holiday and chance to see The Woodlands fireworks display, weather permitting. Usually they are on Labor Day at 9 p.m. around the Waterway. Please refer to our Villager newspaper or the College Park website for up-to-date information.

We at College Park hope all of our residents of The Woodlands have had a wonderful, eventful summer. All of our parks in the villages have such nice, safe and supervised swimming pools. We hope everyone had a chance to go and visit your nearby park to see the fun our residents have in the amenities we are all so fortunate to have access to.

Please keep collecting your corks and caps for the 3R Bazaar that happens in the fall. Again, please refer to the College Park website for the actual date to turn in your corks and caps so that our village can win for the most poundage. The money that is earned from this event is applied to the annual scholarships we offer to our village college students.

All of our students will be returning to school, and please be very careful and aware of the school buses in the area and students walking home or crossing the streets. One area we all need to work on is keeping our residential streets clear of cars parked along the roadway. The school buses cannot get through our narrow streets when there are cars parked in front of the houses. It’s also a safety issue for our fire department if they can’t pass through in an emergency. If you’re having visitors to your residence, please arrange parking vehicles in your

driveway first, asking a neighbor if you can park in front of their house or driveway, etc.

One last reminder...we are still in hurricane season and we want to remind you to have a family plan if there is a storm headed in our direction. Have ample supplies of water, food, and emergency supplies always ready, along with gas in your cars.

Hope to see you at one of our College Park monthly board meetings. Try to get involved in our village activities by attending the meetings, volunteering for upcoming events, and knowing what’s going on in our area. The meeting is monthly on the third Monday of the month. Refer to our website for information regarding the September meeting.

Stay safe, healthy, and happy in The Woodlands, as we do have a wonderful community! Meet your neighbors and have fun in and around the area. Keep informed through our news and information sources so that you don’t miss out on being a part of the action.

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Grogan’s Mill

With additional rains in July, and ever so slightly cooler weather, the rewards are continuing to show up at the Farmers’ Market. You have even more choices of fresh, organic farm produce and other Texas-made products. Check our website or newsletter for your favorite vendors and other info about special events. If you don’t receive our weekly Farmers’ Market e-blast, sign up on our website (www.grogansmillvillage.com) under the Farmers’ Market tab.

The Board would like to remind everyone that legal street parking requires that passenger side tires must be 18 inches or less from the edge of the pavement. Parking with the driver side

MEETING INFORMATION

continued on page 20

ALDEN BRIDGE

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

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

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

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

COLLEGE PARK

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

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

CREEKSIDE PARK

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

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

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

GROGAN’S MILL

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

Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

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

INDIAN SPRINGS

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

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

PANTHER CREEK

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

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

STERLING RIDGE

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

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

tires next to the pavement is technically against the law. Also, when parking on narrow streets, please be considerate of allowing space for emergency vehicles and oncoming vehicles to pass.

Among the requests submitted to The Woodlands Township for funding consideration in the 2015 budget is a basic maintenance plan for the 192 cul-de-sacs located in Grogan’s Mill. While maintaining the cul-de-sacs is the responsibility of the neighborhood, with the exception of the “jumbo” culde-sacs (3,400 sq. ft. or larger), many are unloved and unsightly. We also requested improved median landscaping at the intersections of Grogan’s Mill Road and North and South Millbend.

In July we noted the Grogan’s Mill Village Association’s three $1,000 scholarship winners. Pictured after formally receiving their awards are, from left to right, Jade Smith, Jimena Gamboa, and Madison McDonald.

Our congratulations go to Robin and Jenny Fox, 34-year residents of Foxtail Place, for winning the August 2014 Yard of the Month. Two years ago they relandscaped their entire front yard to

include only drought resistant and birdbutterfly-bee friendly plants. Robin is the gardener and planted the vinca and zinnias for summer color. Thanks, Robin and Jenny, for all of your hard work planting and maintaining such a beautiful yard.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Panther Creek

The residents of Panther Creek are winding up for an event-filled fall. Watch your flea market website (www.woodlandsfleamarket.org) for the date and times for the semi-annual Woodlands Flea Market. Twice a year, buyers, sellers, browsers and bargain hunters flock from near and far to the covered garage between the Cynthia Mitchell Pavilion and The Woodlands Waterway Marriott for this event. So whether you’re looking for that unique piece of furniture, a rare craft find, or are simply getting an early start on your Christmas shopping, don’t miss the fun.

Panther Creek residents have also been leaders in holding National Night Out neighborhood parties. This is a great way to meet new neighbors and work with each other to promote neighborhood safety, and the real hometown feeling that The Woodlands is famous for. The National Night Out get-togethers will be held Tuesday, October 7, 2014, from 5:30

to 8 p.m. If your street missed out last year, The Woodlands Township will help with ideas and supplies to enable you to hold this year’s party. Contact them at 281-210-3800. Also, to get everyone in the spirit and to share valuable information about the many aspects of community safety and preparedness, all residents are invited to a free Safety Expo at Northshore Park on Saturday, September 20, 2014. Your community needs you. Whether it’s joining in at events like the flea market, the National Night Out, and the Safety Expo, or volunteering to be a neighborhood watch coordinator, there is a place for you to be part of it all. Your Panther Creek Village Association is rewriting the by-laws to expand opportunities as area representatives and board members. One citizen who recently stepped forward to take a place on the Panther Creek Board is Chuck Meyer, so welcome, Chuck. Every resident of Panther Creek is invited to our monthly board meetings to hear reports about public safety, parks, events, and much more. It’s a great place to find out the best resources for solutions to problems that are of concern to you. We are easy to find online, on Facebook, on Twitter, and by subscribing to our free newsletter.

We invite you to check us out at www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org. You’ll be glad you did!

Submitted

by Paul Gebolys

Panther Creek Village Association board members and friends celebrate at Ridgewood Park on Flag Day.

CALENDAR

continued from page 17

Wednesday, September 24

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, September 25

National Night Out Supply and Registration Day

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Public Meeting

South County Mobility Plan

6 to 8 p.m.

Shenandoah Municipal Complex 29955 I-45 North Shenandoah, TX 77381

www.montgomerycountymobility.com

Saturday, September 27

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine) www.grogansmillvillage.com

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

9 a.m. to noon 281-210-3800

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 281-210-3800

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447

Tuesday, September 30

Healthcare Provider CPR/AED Renewal Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

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

...at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions!

By Lucinda Valdes

Discover water-wise methods to keep landscapes green while conserving water at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions, a free gardening event, on Saturday, September 27, 2014, from 9 a.m. to noon at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, 77381. With booths, demonstrations and a native plant sale, Woodlands Landscaping Solutions provides the tools to create and maintain a water-wise lawn and yard.

Explore do-it-yourself techniques or hire it out to Montgomery County Master Gardeners and landscaping experts. Evaluate water-wise, sustainable methods to keep lawns and gardens vibrant through the seasons and weather extremes of East Texas.

Booths feature current trends of water conservation, edible landscapes and pollinator gardening. The irrigation station will reveal how to deliver water to

parched landscapes with drip irrigation and small-scale rainwater harvesting. Bob Dailey of The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency will share the secret of fine-tuning and troubleshooting irrigation systems for water efficiency.

Hands-on demonstrations by Montgomery County Master Gardeners will teach plant propagation techniques, tool care and the basics of backyard composting. Attendees can also bring

Photos by Lynne Aldrich

Start planting fall vegetables now with tried and true methods shared by gardening guru Ben Van der Poll.

Photo by Lynne Aldrich

diseased plants and plant pests in a clear plastic baggie to receive a free diagnosis and treatment plan at the Plant Clinic.

Gaining in popularity for charm and ease of care, habitat gardens add life to the landscape by enticing hummingbirds, butterflies and songbirds. Learn the essentials from the Texas Bluebird Society and Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast Texas.

The plant sale is the highlight of the event, and will feature water-thrifty perennials, vines, shrubs and understory trees from Nature’s Way Resources. Enjoy a preview of offerings from the plant sale with Mark Bowen at 8 a.m. before booths open. The sale of culinary herbs and vegetable starts will benefit Veggie Village, Interfaith Food Pantry’s donation garden. The Garden Shop will offer gardening tools, gifts and organic products for purchase.

An outdoor garden event, Woodlands Landscaping Solutions is organized by The Woodlands Township and sponsored by Montgomery County Master Gardener Association, Waste Management, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. and Hilton Garden Inn. Call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ gardeningevents for more information. *One compost bin per household. Proof of The Woodlands residency required.

From soil preparation and mulching to plant selection, learn tips from the experts to achieve an easy-care landscape that is water-wise and earth-friendly. Photo

by Lucinda Valdes

Arts in the Park

is exactly what you’ll get at Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive, on Saturday, September 6, 2014, from 2 to 6 p.m. Arts in the Park is a fun, family-friendly event that allows local artists to sell their work, local entertainers to perform and children to have fun in the Kid Zone. There will also be Vendor Bingo for those who put their names in 10 booths for a give-away drawing. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/artsinthepark for more information.

Sunday,

Saturday,

JUST DO ONE THING

BE INFORMED

This month, make sure everyone in your household can receive, understand, and act on information received in an emergency.

Emergency Information: Things to Consider

• Emergency news or weather broadcasts may not be close-captioned.

• Information that is shown on screen might not be spoken aloud.

• Automated voices and voices over loud speakers may be hard to understand.

• Information comes quickly, and the stress of a disaster may make it hard to understand or remember instructions.

• Words moving across the bottom of a television screen may move very quickly.

• The screen color or color of the text might make some information on television hard to read.

Choose One of the Following to Do This Month to Become Better Prepared

Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do when they receive emergency warnings.

Warnings may come via phone calls, text messages or emails with emergency information. Talk to family members about what to do when emergency

information is given. See the article on page 29 about Emergency Notifications.

Get a NOAA Emergency Alert Radio.

Weather can change very quickly. Severe weather may strike when people are sleeping or unaware of the forecast. This can be deadly if people do not seek a safe shelter. A NOAA emergency alert radio (sometimes called a weather radio) can turn itself on when an emergency alert is issued and warn you at any time, day or night. Every home should have an emergency alert radio, just the way all homes should have a smoke detector. They can be purchased at stores that sell electronics, and prices start at about $20. Most run on batteries or have battery back-up.

Make sure everyone in your household can communicate in a disaster.

Getting correct information during an emergency is the key to taking safe action. Someone in your household may not be able to receive, understand or act on emergency information. Think about what special needs your household may have. Take action now to make sure

everyone in your family will be safe in an emergency. The way emergency information is sent out in your community may not work for everyone. If you don’t speak English well, or if you use an assistive device to speak or hear, make a plan now. Make sure you can get and give information in a disaster.

If you think you or someone in your family may not be able to understand emergency information, identify someone (or more than one person) that you can contact for help in an emergency. Have more than one way to get in touch with them. Keep their contact information with you.

Remember, emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be hard or expensive.

The Woodlands CERT encourages you to prepare for all hazards and become disaster-resilient. We encourage you to follow the plan throughout the year and to “stay informed and be ready” by following us on the web, Facebook or Twitter for more timely preparedness tips.

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KITS

All families should have a kit with all the emergency supplies together in one place. Use this checklist to compare with your kit and make sure you have everything your family needs in case of any unexpected event that may occur, such as:

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

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

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help.

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

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

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

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

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

• Important family documents.

• Items for unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers, pet food and pet medications.

The Perfect Way To Enjoy Fall Colors...

Fall is the perfect season to explore Lake Woodlands, and what better way to do it than in the freedom of a kayak?

Whether you want a family outing, a team-building exercise, a romantic picnic or just solitude, the Riva Row Boat House is the place to start. Single kayaks are just $15 for the first hour and tandem kayaks are just $20 for the first hour. Each additional hour is only $5 for either. And this price includes paddles and a life jacket.

How about bringing your dog for a ride? The Woodlands Dog Park Club (now the Lone Star Animal Welfare League) donated life jackets for dogs of all sizes—and there is no extra charge for Fido (or Astro, Mittens, Brandy…) to ride along. The hours of operation are 9 a.m. to sunset, with the last kayak out one hour before sunset. The boat house is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call 281-210-3965 or email boathouse@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/rivarowboathouse

RIVA

Keep this list handy or program into your phone for easy access when needed.

• www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ emergency

• Sign up for emergency alerts, press releases and The Woodlands Township weekly eNewsletter at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/list

• Sign up for WoodlandsAlert at www.woodlandsalert.org

• Hurricane preparedness: www.ready.gov

• Montgomery County emergency information: www.mctxoem.org

• Harris County emergency information: www.readyharris.org

• National Weather Service, National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov

• Woodlands Alert messages: www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click Woodlands Alert Sign up

• Local broadcast emergency information: K-STAR Country radio 99.7 FM

• To schedule an emergency preparedness presentation for your neighborhood, please call The Woodlands Watch at 281-210-3800 or you can email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Sign up to receive emergency notifications any time of the day or night from the below counties.

• Montgomery County Code Red ...........................www.mc911.org or call 936-523-5900

• Harris County

or call 832-237-9911

In the event all communications fail, The Woodlands Fire Department stations will have emergency information for the community.

Trees are attractive. And they’re especially attractive in The Woodlands, because they’re, well, in The Woodlands. They also have purpose. They help reduce energy costs, filter the air and remove pollutants, as well as providing habitat for wildlife.

First, remember that trees, like all other plants, can suffer as much from overwatering as from under watering. Diseases, such as root rot fungus, are caused by overwatering. With plentiful rain received in the area recently, there is usually no need to water trees (or lawns for that matter). In fact, even in drought conditions, trees should only be watered once or twice a month.

Apply water slowly and infrequently. Sprinkler watering loses significant amounts of water through evaporation, and wets bark at the base of the tree, increasing possible damage from disease and pests.

Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation instead of sprinklers: Soaker hoses and drip irrigation systems allow water to penetrate slowly into the ground, getting the maximum amount of water to the tree roots where they are needed and minimizing waste.

How much should I water? Insert a soil moisture meter into the soil about halfway between the trunk and the drip line. If the meter reads “moist” or “wet,” then stop watering. These meters

By Bob Dailey

are inexpensive and can be purchased at nurseries, online and big box stores. Alternately, use a six-inch screwdriver. Insert the screwdriver into the soil at the same place as you would the moisture meter. If it goes in up to the handle, the tree needs no water.

How do I water properly? Run a drip or soaker hose around the tree, starting at the drip line of the tree (at the end of the farthest branches). Stop at four to five feet from the trunk.

Organic mulch helps keep moisture in the soil, and helps protect the roots from high temperatures. Spread it three inches deep but keep the mulch at least a foot from the base of the tree.

Nurturing a Love of Life, Learning, and the World Around Us

Established in 1988, The John Cooper School is a recognized leader in college preparatory independent school education. Cooper combines traditional educational practices with innovative programs to teach students to think, analyze, create and take responsibility for their world.

October

Photo by Cliff Roe Photography

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