3 survey shows residents Give the Woodlands township High ratings
6 national night out 202
8 great gardens grow with the Flow
0 YMCa Dragon Boat team Challenge 2012
0 Live at Night at Waterway square
2 Make sure Your Family is Prepared for Hurricane season
4 Bumblebees –super Pollinators
23 Volunteer Opportunities
26 Hardscapes for Firewise and Waterwise Gardens
27 Fall 2012 Concert in the Park series
27 riva row Boat House
28 Fall in Love with two Classical Performances at the Pavilion
29 Labor Day Celebration
30 Controlling Daytime Biters
3 upcoming environmental events
3 Battle of the Bands
3 arts in the Park
32 Make a splash in september
6 Calendar of events
7 Holiday Garbage Collection schedule
8 the Woodlands Village News
the Woodlands Fire Department, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 and Montgomery County sheriff’s Office gathered to show their support for the Woodlands township’s National Night Out Community-wide Kickoff. see pages 6 and 7 for more information. Pictured left to right are Montgomery County sheriff’s Office senior sergeant Jermaine Jenkins, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Deputy Constable Mike ruby, Driver-Operator eMt-P Baron edmiston, Firefighter eMt-I Brandon Pizzino, Firefighter eMt-P adrian Dinges, Lieutenant eMt-P Michael Helmcamp, Montgomery County sheriff’s Office sergeant Paul Cassidy and Montgomery County sheriff’s Office Deputy Lynise Marshall with Hap.
www.derrickbryantphotography.com
www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov
The Woodlands ToWnship
2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381
main line
All Offices and Departments 28-20-3800
Fire department (non-emergency) 281-367-3444
Parks, Recreation and environmental services 8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800
Recreation Center
5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950
The Woodlands Joint Powers agency (Water) 281-367-1271
montgomery County sheriff’s office 281-297-6500 936-442-7797
harris County sheriff’s office 713-221-6000
montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211
harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472
emergency 9
For emergency information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST-FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.
Whenit comes to customer service, the Woodlands township strives to keep its residents pleased with every interaction. results from the recent telephone survey of the Woodlands residents show that the township is on the right track! Ninety-one percent of respondents rated overall services provided by the Woodlands township from good to excellent. answers received as “excellent” increased from 25 to 33 percent from the 2010 results. the results were reported by Creative Consumer research, an independent polling firm that conducted the survey last spring. among the best-rated services were fire and emergency services, garbage and recycling collections and parks and open space.
When asked to rate the township’s tax rate, 59 percent said that it was a good, very good or excellent value for the money. When asked what residents liked best about living in the Woodlands, 36 percent of residents mentioned the appearance and natural beauty of the Woodlands, while 22 percent stated being conveniently located.
The Woodlands Community Magazine, a publication of the township, rated a high readership level, with 92 percent of the respondents saying they read some, most or all of it, and 82 percent rating the magazine as an effective source of community information.
the two most important things the Woodlands residents expect the Woodlands township to provide are safety, as named by 41 percent of the respondents, and security, as named by 18 percent. Most residents, 92 percent, felt it was somewhat to very important for the township to continue paying for additional law enforcement. there was no consensus as to the most important issue facing residents of the Woodlands (38 percent responded “don’t know). However, traffic congestion (15 percent) and law enforcement / lower crime (5 percent) were top mentions.
the Woodlands township contracted with Creative Consumer research (CCr), a texas-based marketing research company with offices in Houston, san antonio and Phoenix, to conduct the random-sample study. results of the survey are valid at the 95 percent confidence level, meaning that if the survey were conducted 100 times, the same results would occur 95 times. CCr polled 1,061 Woodlands residents between april 4, and april 30, 2012. the township uses the results for planning and budgeting purposes.
For further information regarding the resident survey, please call 281-210-3800. results of the survey may be viewed online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ woodlandssurvey2012.
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.
Cham P ions sTa FF
President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr. account executives
Connie Krell
Charlotte Blanco
Cheryl Kirsch
Patti Van Horn
Creative director Lori Short graphic designers
Jami Davis
Charlene Strine
T o W nshi P sTa FF
director of Community Relations Nick Wolda editor Mary Connell
assistant editor Elena Smith editorial assistant Terri Jefferies
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, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859, 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.
The Woodlands Community Magazine is a past recipient of The Communicator Award of Distinction, the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators and a Merit Award from The Service Industry Advertising Awards.
America gives neighborhood crime and drugs a going-away party. In true texas style, the Woodlands celebration is so big that we celebrate for two days!
Onsaturday, september 22, 2012, from 1 to 5 p.m., law enforcement and public safety agencies will gather for a community-wide kickoff celebration at Northshore Park. this free event is designed to promote involvement in crime prevention activities and strengthen police-community relationships. You do not want to miss this opportunity to:
• see Homeland security’s Mineresistant ambush Protected Vehicle.
• Climb inside an ambulance or FBI tank.
• explore the Montgomery County sheriff’s Office or ICe Mobile Command units.
• try on sWat and FBI gear.
• Watch live demonstrations from Narcotic, explosive Detection and apprehension dogs.
• Meet real crime scene investigators and texas rangers.
the kids can enjoy face painting, a bounce house, balloon artists, crafts and hanging out with McGruff and the other mascots that will help celebrate National Night Out. H-e-B will supply free hot dogs and hamburgers.
the celebration continues on Tuesday, october 2, 2012, with neighborhood parties. National Night Out encourages neighbors to gather together from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on their street or in a nearby park. Neighbor knowing neighbor is one of the most effective ways to prevent crime in your neighborhood. How you celebrate is up to your neighborhood. It’s easy to register your party, just visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click National Night Out. all registered parties will have a chance to meet law enforcement or fire department personnel. Contests and activities are listed on the township Web site.
as part of National Night Out, the township will host a food drive to benefit Interfaith Food Bank. Collect nonperishable food items at your National Night Out party. Visit www.woodlandsinterfaith.org for a list of food items needed. Food items collected can be dropped off between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Wednesday, October 3, through Friday, October 5, 2012, at Interfaith of the Woodlands (4242 Interfaith Way) or saturday, October 6, 2012, from noon to
Friday, September 14, 2012
Early Bird Registration
Register your National Night Out neighborhood party. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ NationalNightOut or contact your program specialist at 281-210-3800.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Movie Night (Little Big League)
7 p.m., movie starts at 8 p.m.
Northshore Park
Join local public safety agencies to watch Little Big League and learn how to be Safe at Home!
2 p.m. at the Woodlands township town Hall (2801 technology Forest Blvd., west entrance). Please make sure you mention National Night Out! together we CaN make a difference to alleviate hunger in south Montgomery County.
Help us say “thank you” to our local public safety personnel in the Woodlands township! show your neighborhood spirit and send a message of appreciation to our dedicated deputies and firefighters.
• Be creative and make thank-you posters at your National Night Out party!
• Pick up poster board at supply and registration Day (Wednesday, september 19, 2012, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
• turn in posters by 5 p.m. on Monday, October 15, 2012, at the township town Hall.
• Posters will be presented to public safety personnel.
enter a creative photo from your National Night Out neighborhood party by Friday, October 5, 2012, for a chance to win prizes. Photo entries must include
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Supply and Registration Day
10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. (Board Chambers entrance) Stop by
at least one of the following: National Night Out logo, law enforcement representative and/or apparatus, the Woodlands Fire Department firefighter and/or vehicle. Judges will look for use of theme, creativity, neighborhood involvement and overall impression. there will be one grand prize winner and eight first prize winners (one from each village).
I.D. the Burglar Village Challenge this incredibly fun contest is designed to promote neighborhood cooperation and crime prevention awareness and to test a person’s skill and accuracy in identifying a suspect. One neighborhood party will be drawn from the registered parties for the opportunity to represent their village and participate in this challenge. the party with the most accurate description of the burglar will win the overall challenge. to enter, call 281-210-3800 and ask for your National Night Out program specialist to include your neighborhood in the drawing. You may also make the request online when using the National Night Out registration form at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/nationalnightout. You must enter by Wednesday, september 19, 2012. the drawing will be thursday, september 20, 2012, and the selected parties will be notified and given all relevant materials to participate. How it works: a Montgomery County sheriff’s Office motorcycle unit will escort a “burglar” and a “good guy” (Montgomery County sheriff Citizen’s academy alumni association) to your neighborhood. Your neighborhood must work as a team to I.D. the Burglar!
Versatile heirloom bulbs, native plants and edible selections bring beauty and color to the southern garden year after year!
Discover tips for creating great waterwise gardens plus gardening booths, rainwater harvesting, a plant sale
Fromflood-producing downpours and hard freezes to extended drought and hot, muggy summers, gardening in southeast texas is often no picnic! Without a doubt, the weather and soil conditions are challenging. Don’t get bogged down, become a savvy gardener and grow with the flow!
Discover native, well adapted and edible plants that thrive in our extreme climate at Woodlands Landscaping solutions on saturday, september 29, 2012, from 9 a.m. to noon at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive. showcasing tips from gardening groups and professionals, the free event focuses on achieving an easy-care, waterwise landscape.
Discover current trends in landscaping—waterwise lawns, firewise techniques and gardening for pollinators. stop by the Master Gardener’s Irrigation station to check out the latest watersaving gadgets, drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting.
Local gardening personalities and authors, Brenda Beust-smith, Mark Bowen and Cherie Colburn, will share easy tips to revive stressed landscapes. Bring a landscape photo or sketch for design on the spot from these gardening pros. The Lazy Gardener on CD and gardening books for our region will be available for purchase.
By Lucinda ValdesOur mild winters actually result in a long-growing season and optimal conditions for many exciting edible and ornamental plants. Learn about inviting nature to your window with habitat gardening and the plants that attract birds and butterflies.
Hard-to-find understory trees, shrubs, vines and perennials will be available from Diane Cabiness’s Native Plant Nursery and the Pineywoods Landscaping. Chris Wiesinger, “the Bulb Hunter,” will return with heirloom bulbs for hot landscapes while the Herb Cottage will spice it up with fall vegetables, herbs and seeds for southern gardens plus thornless blackberries, blueberries and olive trees.
the “doctor will be in” at the Master Gardener Plant Clinic. transport that sickly or pest-plagued specimen in a plastic baggie to receive a free diagnosis and prescription for treatment.
Discover waterwise tips to create an easy-care landscape at booths and demonstrations. the event is organized by the Woodlands township with sponsorship by Montgomery County Master Gardener association, the Woodlands G.r e e.N., Hilton Garden Inn and Waste Management. For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ gardeningevents or call 281-210-3800.
FriDAY
8 p.m.
Gates at 7 p.m.
Hans Graf, conductor Frank Huang, violin Brinton Averil Smith, cello
Celebrate the best of German composer Johannes Brahms, one of the leading musicians of the Romantic period, with an evening dedicated to three of his greatest works: Variations on a Theme of Haydn, Concerto for Violin and Cello and Symphony No. 4.
$15 orchestra seating, FREE mezzanine and lawn seating presented by
FriDAY
OCT. 12
7:30 p.m.
Gates at 6 p.m.
$15 orchestra seating, FREE mezzanine and lawn seating presented by
Tickets can be purchased at The Pavilion Box Office located at 2005 Lake Robbins Drive in The Woodlands. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on event days through the start of the show. Tickets also are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com
Join us for this “spooktacular” Halloween event featuring tricks, treats and enchanting music by the Houston Symphony. Daddies, mummies and little ghosts and goblins can dress up in their favorite Halloween costumes. Pre-concert activities begin at 6 p.m. in the North Plaza. Hair-raising activities include:
Dance Party 6-7:15 p.m.
Let’s Get Ready to RoW! The community is invited to cheer on their favorite teams as the South Montgomery County YMCA, Aon HEWITT and The Woodlands Township host the 14th Annual YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge. The event is scheduled for September 27-30, 2012, at Northshore Park and Lake Woodlands. Admission is free for spectators.
asthe six-month hurricane season continues, the Woodlands township Board of Directors reminds all residents to remain proactive and plan what you and your family should do if disaster strikes our area. as Benjamin Franklin famously wrote, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” thinking about it now will help you decide what to do later.
to stay informed before, during and after an emergency, as long as electric power and Internet access permit, check the Woodlands township Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.
In addition, The Woodlands Township has an agreement with K-sTar country, 99.7 FM radio to broadcast emergency information specific to The Woodlands in the event of a community-wide emergency.
• Fully redundant power
• Locally owned and operated
• North Houston and Conroe coverage
• Local news, weather and traffic Listen daily at 99.7 FM or online at kstarcountry.com.
In the event all communication efforts fail, residents may go to one of the eight fire stations in the Woodlands. these stations will have the latest updates and information available for residents.
Temporary Central Station and Administration Office
29955 I-45 North, shenandoah 77381
Station 2: 9303 Gosling road the Woodlands 77381
Station 3: 1522 sawdust road the Woodlands 77380
Station 4: 7900 Bay Branch Drive the Woodlands 77382
Station 5: 10100 Branch Crossing Drive the Woodlands 77382
Station 6: 1100 Windsor Lakes Boulevard the Woodlands 77384
Station 7: 26722 Kuykendahl road the Woodlands 77375
Station 8: 11800 Gosling road the Woodlands 77381
assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need in one place. recommended supplies include:
• 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
texas
pollinators come into focus when Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture presents Bumblebees and Native Bees of Texas with Michael Warriner, from texas Parks and Wildlife, at 7:30 p.m. on thursday, september 13, 2012, at McCullough Jr. High school, 3800 s. Panther Creek Drive. While the spread of africanized bees and the plight of european honey bees often make the news, the untold story revolves around the docile american bumblebee. Large, fuzzy, black and yellow-bodied, bumblebees do not produce honey for commercial use, but they are super pollinators!
“they are one of the groups of animals that help support other living things,” says Mr. Warriner. threequarters of flowering plants need to be pollinated by animals, and native bees are the number one animal pollinator of agricultural, ornamental and wild plants. superior among the pollinators, bumblebees forage much earlier and later in the day. Bigger and hairier, they gather and transfer pollen from flower to flower more efficiently.
If you like food, you should like bumblebees! superstars of the vegetable garden, bumblebees use buzz pollination according to Mr. Warriner. “they grab the flower, vibrate their flight muscles and shake the flower to release pollen,” he explains.
“Tomatoes pollinated by bumblebees have 50 percent more fruit and are larger in size.”
Nine species of bumblebees and hundreds of native bees have been recorded in texas. spotlighting bumblebees, Michael Warriner reveals the fascinating world of native bees, citizen science’s role in understanding them and how to attract docile bees to your own garden. a free program of the Woodlands township, Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture series is sponsored by the Woodlands G.r e e.N., Hilton Garden Inn and Waste Management. For more information, please call the Woodlands township at 281-210-3800.
Large, yet non-aggressive, four to five species of bumblebees live in East Texas.The expertise of Texas Children’s Hospital, together with the high level of care offered by St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, is the right choice, right here, for your child.
Our services include:
• The expert neonatologists who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospital manage and staff the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, offering the best possible care for your newborn.
• The same physicians who provide pediatric emergency care at Texas Children’s Hospital are also caring for your children at the St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital emergency room, 24 hours a day.
• When your child needs inpatient care at St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, the premier pediatricians who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospital are there to manage care through the Pediatric Hospitalist Program
• Texas Children’s nursing leadership is on-site to provide expert management of newborn and pediatric services at St Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital
We’re proud to offer Texas Children’s Hospital services at:
17200 St. Luke’s Way | The Woodlands, TX 77384
See page 26.
saturday, september
Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market
8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)
Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center
www.grogansmillvillage.com
Labor Day Weekend Celebration 6 to 9 p.m.
Waterway Square 281-363-2447
sunday, september 2
Labor Day Weekend Celebration 6 to 9 p.m.
Waterway Square 281-363-2447
monday, september 3
Labor Day Township offices closed.
Tuesday, september 4
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 5
Development Standards Committee Meeting*
Thursday, september 6
Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*
Houston Symphony
Latin American Classical Concert
The Pavilion
8 p.m., gates open at 7 p.m. Free lawn seating
www.woodlandscenter.org
Friday, september 7
Gorilla Hole
The Recreation Center 7 p.m.
281-210-3950
This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.
saturday, september 8
Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market
8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)
Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center
www.grogansmillvillage.com
Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
281-210-5820 ext. 1731
sunday, september 9
Concert in the Park
Patricia Vonne (Spanish Roots Rock) Northshore Park
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
281-210-3800
Tuesday, september
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 3
Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*
Panther Creek Village Association Meeting
2801 Technology Forest Blvd.
7 p.m.
281-210-3886
Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture Bumblebees and Native Bees of Texas McCullough Junior High School, 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive
7:30 p.m.
281-210-3800
Friday, september 4
National Night Out Movie Night Little Big League
Northshore Park
7 p.m. (movie starts at 8 p.m.) 281-210-3800
saturday, september 5
Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market
8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)
Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center www.grogansmillvillage.com
Heartsaver CPR Class
Emergency Training Center
9 a.m. to noon
281-210-5820 ext. 1731
First Aid Class
Emergency Training Center
Noon to 3:30 p.m.
281-210-5820 ext. 1731
Arts in the Park
Rob Fleming Park
4 to 8 p.m.
281-210-3800
Live at Night
The Truehearts (Acoustic Pop Duo) Waterway Square
6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447
sunday, september 6
Concert in the Park
Gary Michael Dahl (Jazz)
Northshore Park
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3800
monday, september 7
Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting
2801 Technology Forest Blvd.
6:30 p.m. 281-210-3887
College Park Village Association Meeting
Emergency Training Center
7:30 p.m.
281-210-3889
Tuesday, september 8
Healthcare Provider CPR Class
Emergency Training Center
6:30 to 10 p.m.
281-210-5820 ext. 1731
The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.
Going Green Sustainability Series
Water For The WoodlandsToday...and Tomorrow
Mark Smith, San Jacinto River Authority South Regional Library 2101 Lake Robbins Drive
7 p.m.
For more information, call Cinda Hitchcock at 281-363-2723.
Wednesday, september 9
Development Standards Committee Meeting*
there will be no waste collection service on Monday, september 3, 2012, in observance of labor day Everyone’s waste collection will be moved to the day following the regular service day. all services are affected. Please refer to the chart below.
regular collection holiday collection
Monday, september 3
tuesday, september 4
Wednesday, september 5
thursday, september 6 ..................
Friday, september 7
tuesday, september 4
Wednesday, september 5
thursday, september 6
Friday, september 7
saturday, september 8
Normal schedule will resume Monday, september 10, 2012.
National Night Out
Supply and Registration Day
2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
281-210-3800
Thursday, september 20
The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Workshop
2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7:30 a.m.
281-210-3800
Friday, september 2
Bloodborne Pathogens Class
Emergency Training Center 9 to 11 a.m.
281-210-5820 ext. 1731
Gorilla Hole
The Recreation Center 7 p.m.
281-210-3950
This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.
continued on page 24
to store your trash carts and other receptacles out of view when it is not your garbage pickup day. leaving trash carts out longer than necessary detracts from the curb appeal of neighborhoods and becomes an eyesore to neighbors. Trash and recycling receptacles may be placed at the curb on the day prior to trash pickup and should be removed from the curb by the end of the day of trash pickup.
www.metroministorage.net
september is usually one of our hottest months, so continue to keep cool in our community pools! the pool at alden Bridge Park will be open on weekends through september 30, but the Lakeside Park and Windvale Park pools closed in august.
the monthly alden Bridge residents meeting will be held on tuesday, september 11, 2012, at 7 p.m. at the Woodlands township town Hall, 2801 technology Forest Blvd. a guest speaker hasn’t been confirmed yet, but please watch our Web site (www.aldenbridge.org) for updates. residents are encouraged to bring us your questions, your praise and your problems. You can also send your concerns to info@aldenbridge.org.
Our Yard of the Month winner was the Fruge family of Fairbranch Circle in Fairbranch. Pictured below, left to right, are winning homeowner Celeste Fruge and Darla Bell of the alden Bridge Village association. Congratulations to the Fruge family! We’ll award our last Yard of the Month winner for 2012 in september, so send in your nominations to info@aldenbridge.org.
Volunteers are needed to represent alden Bridge at the Fall Villages 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 village’s monthly e-mail newsletter. 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 BellCochran’s Crossing Village association was represented in the July 4th Parade. the weather cooperated… sunny and (relatively) cool.
some Cochran’s Crossing residents cheering on the parade participants were told to look for their picture in a future issue of the community magazine...and here it is. along the parade route the Cochran’s Crossing marchers passed out hundreds of pieces of wrapped candy. (Cochran’s Crossing Village association treasurer, Jim Goldmeyer, was hobbled by a broken leg, but he was still able to ride along in his car with his son driving.)
the Fall Festival is planned for sunday, October 21, 2012, at shadowbend Park. the event will receive support from the Kroger at Cochran’s Crossing shopping Center. among the activities will be a bounce house, petting zoo and pony rides.
remember, Cochran’s Crossing Village association meetings are held the fourth tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Woodlands township town Hall, 2801 technology Forest Blvd.
Submitted by Gary Conwell
Is everyone ready for fall to arrive? Of course, our children have started their new school year and are already dealing with homework, meeting new friends, and starting in new sports activities! Many of our residents have children riding the school bus every day. Our children are our number one safety concern. Please be aware of the children walking home from bus stops or waiting for the bus every day. If you witness school buses driving too fast in our neighborhoods, please contact our College Park board so that the school district can be notified.
Please be aware that parking cars on the street in front of your house could cause a fire truck, school bus, garbage collection truck or even a moving van not to be able to squeeze through. We certainly do not want a life to be in danger because there was not enough room on our streets! Please use your driveways before the street.
We hope your Labor Day is fun and festive! It’s the last of the summertime activities. Our village’s participation in the Woodlands awarding-winning National Night Out begins with a kickoff on saturday, september 22, 2012, and College Park Village association’s National Night Out party on tuesday, October 2, 2012. We will hold our annual Family Fall Festival/spooktacular event in Harper’s Landing Park in October. Please watch for notice of the date in your October issue of this magazine and check our Web site for details. In closing, be safe, happy, and let’s all be good neighbors to each other and keep an eye on protecting our properties!
We encourage all of our residents to take the time to attend our monthly College Park meeting! It is always the third Monday of each month at the Woodlands emergency training Center just north of the Harper’s Landing entrance off I-45.
Submitted by Johanne Stanley
Village News continues on page 20
www.villageofcollegepark.com
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! Web site www.aldenbridge.org
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Steve Leakey at 281-419-3468.
The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Web site www.cochranscrossing.com
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Stuart Schroeder at 936-273-0419.
The College Park Village Association (CPVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center. Please join us!
Web site www.villageofcollegepark.com
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Ted Stanley at 936-321-5996.
c reekside 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!
Web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Nancy Decker Lent at 617-721-6939.
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! Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Deborah Sargeant at 281-292-5341.
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! Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Amy Lecocq at 281-298-1476.
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! Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Everett Ison at 281-298-9524.
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! Web site www.sterling-ridge.org
Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Phillip Givens at 281-419-9331.
Missy and terry Hynous are the proud winners of Grogan’s Mill september Yard of the Month. they have lived at their home on Mossrock for 28 years. Grogan’s Mill Village association Vice President Matt Beasley, who selected this month’s yard, is pictured with the Hynouses.
the final yard to be honored Yard of the Month in 2012 by the Grogan’s Mill Village association will be announced in October. the selected winner receives the coveted Grogan’s Mill Yard of the Month sign to display plus a $50 gift certificate to a store of their choice in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. the program for 2013 will begin in april and run through October, so start thinking of which neighbors (or yourself!) deserve to be nominated.
With fall produce beginning to arrive, more than 20 vendors of the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market are ready to serve you with all their fresh farm produce, artisan breads and other baked goods, free-range chickens and grass-fed beef, goat cheese and lotions, texas olive oil, beautiful orchids, chemical-free soaps and cleansers, and so much more! We hope to see you every saturday, rain or shine (we’ll loan you a colorful umbrella while you shop!), at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, corner of Grogan’s Mill road and south Millbend, from 8 a.m. until noon. Check the Grogan’s Mill Village association Web site at www.grogansmillvillage.com for the latest info on vendors and products.
Don’t forget to bring your caps (and corks) to the Farmer’s Market. the Grogan’s Mill Village association is collecting these for the next recycling fair.
Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton
Taste of the village
save the date! the eighth annual Indian springs taste of the Village event will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on saturday, October 20, 2012. this is a free family event with great food to sample and fun activities for both children and adults, even a live band! It will be held in the Indian springs shopping Center at the intersection of Kuykendahl road and Woodlands Parkway.
caps and corks recycling
Keep saving your corks and plastic bottle caps. the official collection day for 2012 will be November 10 at the township Parks, recreation and environmental services Facility, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive (next to The Woodlands High School) as always, you may drop your caps and corks in the collection bins located inside the entrance doors of your Indian springs H-e-B. these will be collected throughout the year and delivered to the 3r Bazaar for recycling.
the staff of Fire station #8 graciously allowed the Indian springs Village association to hold its July meeting at the fire station, located on Gosling just south of Flintridge. Firefighter Chris Norsworthy introduced the staff and led board members and guests on an informative and insightful tour of the wonderful new facility. Mr. Norsworthy reminded us all that fire stations are open during emergencies and are a good source of community information.
regular monthly meetings of the Indian springs Village association are held on the second tuesday of the
month at the township town Hall, 2801 technology Forest Boulevard. For more information, please visit our Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com or like us on Facebook.
Fourth of July Thanks
thank you to everyone who came out to the Fourth of July parade this year. under the guidance and inspiration of Indian springs resident and board member richard stromatt, Indian springs built a float to hold our very
own “Of thee We sing” Indian springs Village association Youth Chorus. the children sang patriotic songs as the float traveled along the parade route. Indian springs Village association President amy Lecocq praised it as a “fabulous effort.” For the third year in a row, Indian springs won the Best Community entry award and trophy. Mr. stromatt noted, “It happened because a whole lot of people worked on it.” He added, “the children’s presence and enthusiasm made all the difference. they loved the applause after every song.”
Submitted by Kelly SharerNorthshore Park is located in Panther Creek Village and is just minutes from any Panther Creek resident’s home. there is always some activity of interest going on at the park. In september, two popular events are scheduled, the Concerts in the Park and the kickoff for National Night Out.
the Fall 2012 Concert in the Park season starts sunday, september 9, 2012. there are a total of six sunday concerts through september and October.
continued on page 22
Concerts are held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. a different genre of music is performed each sunday including spanish root rock, jazz, country rock, 80s and 90s, texas country, Motown and rhythm and blues. another event at Northshore Park is the Community-wide Kickoff of National Night Out. If you have children, grandchildren, or are just a child at heart yourself, don’t miss this opportunity to explore public safety apparatus such as an ambulance, fire engine, mobile command unit and more on saturday, september 22, 2012, 1 to 5 p.m. Watch live demonstrations from Narcotics, explosive Detection and apprehension Police Dogs, try on s.W.a t and firefighter gear and meet real crime scene investigators and texas rangers! the kids will enjoy face painting, a bounce house, crafts and hanging out with McGruff the Crime Dog and many more. there will also be free food cooked up by CIsD Police.
National Night Out, a communitywide event, is slated for tuesday,
October 2, 2012, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., where neighborhood residents are encouraged to gather on their streets or nearby parks to get to know their neighbors. National Night Out has proven to be an effective and enjoyable program to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.
Get to know your neighbors because neighbor knowing neighbor is the first step in crime prevention.
Submitted by Merle Causey
BBQ challenge & Kids Festival!
this september sterling ridge Village prepares to host our sixth annual BBQ Challenge & Kids Festival at Cranebrook Park, 11800 Cranebrook Dr., saturday, september 15, 2012, 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. We will have Free samples from each of our barbeque teams. they will compete for the best brisket, ribs, beans and pork. Our village association will provide the meat for this challenge so all you have to do is round up your neighborhood barbeque team, get those smokers and grills ready and have a fun time! For barbeque rules, please visit www.sterling-ridge.org.
Kids can also enjoy the many fun events including gravity ball, mechanical bull, pony rides, bounce houses, face painting, free pool day, snow cones, free food and drinks and much more! Do not miss out!
The haunting at May valley Manor!
saturday, October 27, 2012, 6:30 until 10 p.m. at the May Valley Pavilion in May Valley Park, be prepared, if you dare, to come to our sterling ridge third annual Haunted House! the cost is $5 donation per entry. Last ticket sale is 9:45 p.m. appropriate age is nine years and older please.
If you have the courage to see what terror lurks within the May Valley Manor, you will want to mark your calendar for this one-night-only frightful event! the many haunted rooms will send chills down your spine as you scream around every turn. the excitement and shock from everywhere will make this an event you won’t want to miss! Can you survive the tour through May Valley Manor?
Submitted by Gabriel Castillothe Woodlands township has many volunteer opportunities to take advantage of this fall. township staff relies on volunteers to assist with their programs and events. Visit the Parks and recreation volunteer opportunities Web page at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/recvolunteers for information regarding upcoming events and programs, including the 10 For texas, saturday, October 13, 2012, at Market street, a 10-mile race and kids’ fun run; and the Haunting at Bear Branch Park during weekends in October.
saturday, september 22
Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market
8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)
Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center
www.grogansmillvillage.com
National Night Out Community-Wide Celebration
Northshore Park
1 to 5 p.m.
See pages 6 and 7
Live at Night
The Band Foster with Ashley Stone (Variety/Rock)
Waterway Square
6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447
sunday, september 23
Concert in the Park True Hearts (Country Rock)
Northshore Park
5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3800
monday, september 24
Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting
2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-5808
Tuesday, september 25
Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center
6:30 to 10 p.m. 281-210-5820 ext. 1731
Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting
2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3887
Wednesday, september 26
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 27
Dragon Boat Team Challenge
Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 281-367-9622
See page 10.
Friday, september 28
Dragon Boat Team Challenge Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 281-367-9622
See page 10.
Battle of the Bands Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest
7 p.m. 281-210-3950
saturday, september 29
Dragon Boat Team Challenge
Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 281-367-9622
See page 10.
Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market
8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)
Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center www.grogansmillvillage.com
Woodlands Landscaping Solutions 8203 Millennium Forest Drive
9 a.m. to noon 281-210-3800
Live at Night
Legacy (Variety/Classic Rock) Waterway Square
6 to 8 p.m. 281-363-2447
sunday, september 30
Dragon Boat Team Challenge
Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 281-367-9622
See page 10.
* Please call The Woodlands Township office at 281-210-3800 or view the events calendar online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for complete and updated listings of Township events and meetings.
Weusually think of plants first when planning a firewise and waterwise landscape. Plants are important. they are the elements of the softscape in a garden.
Hardscaping, the use of patios, stone, raised beds, driveways, gravel pathways, sidewalks and other structures, is equally important. Create diverse, waterwise and fire-resistant gardens by establishing breaks in the softscapes, framing gardens, adding to outdoor living spaces and creating effective firebreaks.
raised beds lined with stone and islands of plants surrounded by turf add to the beauty and safety of the yard and garden. use zoned plantings that conform to both waterwise and firewise practices. think of zones as four concentric circles emanating from the home, with plants in the center being the most fire resistant and the highest water users.
though lawns usually fall into the category of softscaping, they can be used as elements of hardscaping as well, creating buffers between islands of larger plants. turf should be healthy with deep root systems. assure this by adding organic compost and humates to improve the soil. Good soil can hold almost two gallons of water per cubic foot.
Mulch is always an important part of gardening. Instead of putting mulch right up to the house and other structures, consider using a gravel mulch to create a foot-wide border around them. Do this for all – homes, wooden decks, stairs, porches and fences. also keep the area free of debris. the gravel serves a number of purposes. It keeps insects away from the structure, allows moisture to seep in along the perimeters and creates a firebreak.
By Bob Dailey
Dry streambeds are great methods to break up planting areas. additionally, they slow down and divert water to desired locations during heavy rains. rain gardens, placed at the end of the streambeds, can support lush vegetation and can provide food and water for birds, butterflies and other beneficial insects.
Gracefully curved walkways constructed of crushed granite, stone or cement add an elegant firewise separation between planted areas. such walkways also help tie in various elements of the landscape.
For more information on this topic, visit Woodlands Landscaping solutions on saturday, september 29, 2012, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Woodlands township Parks, recreation and environmental services Building, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive.
Sundays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Northshore Park FREE ADMISSION
september 9 Patricia Vonne (Spanish Roots Rock)
september 6 Gary Michael Dahl (Jazz)
september 23 True Hearts (Country Rock) 3rd Annual Sidewalk Chalk Competition
Chalked blocks will be judged during intermission at 6:30 p.m. Chalking begins at 5 p.m. Ages 6-15; Free
october 7 Legacy Band (80s & 90s)
october 4 Texas Renegade (Texas Country)
october 2 Reflex Band (Motown and R&B)
Jack-O-Lantern Challenge
Think you can out-carve the other pumpkins in The Woodlands? Pumpkins will be judged at 7 p.m. Fee is $8 and includes carving supplies and pumpkins while they last! All ages are welcome.
www.truecarpetcleaning.com
asautumn leaves fall and the weather cools off, visit the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for two classical performing art events featuring the Houston symphony, Latin American Classical on thursday, september 6, 2012, and Evening with Brahms on on Friday, september 21, 2012. Mezzanine and lawn seating are free courtesy of the Wortham Foundation. tickets are not required for free seating. Orchestra seating tickets for both concerts are $15 each. Both concerts begin at 8 p.m. Gates open at 7 p.m.
Hans Graf will conduct both concerts as he enters his final season as Music Director of the Houston symphony. the symphony’s 2012-13 season will be Graf’s grand finale after 12 years.
Pre-concert activities for Latin american Classical and evening with Brahms begin at 7 p.m. in the North Plaza sponsored by Fidelity Investments, Market street—the Woodlands, renewal by andersen and Century 21 realty Partners. at both concerts, get insight into the evening’s program with Pavilion talk, a free pre-concert discussion led by noted music scholar and former college professor Ira. J. Black from 7:15 to 7:45 p.m. Children and parents can visit the Pavilion Partners, Woodforest National Bank, renewal by andersen, Century 21 realty Partners, Market street—the Woodlands and audi of america, the official automobile of the Pavilion. Guests also can registerto-win tommy Bahama’s “Best seats in the House,” which includes dinner for four at the next performing arts event and a $100 gift card from Market street—the Woodlands and participate in Fidelity’s seat exchange. at Latin american Classical, enjoy the sounds of the Woodlands show Chorus on the
side stage from 7 to 7:45 p.m. at Evening with Brahms, enjoy a hands-on, interactive activity with Casa all pre-concert activities are free to anyone attending the performances. Guests are welcome to have picnics, but beverages cannot be brought into the Pavilion. Lawn chairs are provided free for both events.
Hans GrafPreferred parking is available in the on-site town Center Garage, located along six Pines Drive. Parking tickets can be purchased in advance at all ticketmaster locations and the Pavilion Box Office. Guests also may park in any of the five free parking lots on the southwest side of the Pavilion.
the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s 2012 Performing arts season is presented by the Woodlands Development Company and sponsored by audi of america, official automobile of the Pavilion, the Pavilion Partners, the Wortham Foundation and united airlines, official airline of the Pavilion. the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion acknowledges the financial support of the Woodlands township that is generated by the event admissions tax for its performing arts and educational outreach programs.
For more information, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org or look for the Pavilion on Facebook or twitter.
Whenmosquitoes become a nuisance during daylight hours, Aedes albopictus or Asian Tigers are generally the culprit. these mosquitoes are:
• Daytime fliers and biters.
• aggressive biters but weak fliers.
• Container breeders, laying eggs in anything that holds water.
• tested for West Nile but have rarely been positive for the virus until recently.
• NOt impacted by nighttime spraying. the dominance of Aedes mosquitoes implies that a breeding source in the form of container(s) of water exists nearby. Neighbors can reduce the numbers of mosquitoes by working together to empty containers that hold water and treating areas that cannot be drained with mosquito dunks or bits. Found at home and garden centers, the products contain bti, a biological larvicide. You can increase your outdoor comfort by:
• Directing an oscillating or box fan towards you when sitting outdoors.
• Wearing protective clothing (long pants and shirt) when working outdoors and using a repellent containing Deet, Lemon eucalyptus, Picaridin or ir3535.
• selecting drought-tolerant native plants for your landscape. Mosquitoes are attracted to the moist environment tropical plants need to thrive.
Aedes is not the only mosquito species around. If possible, stay indoors from just before dusk to just after dawn. During these hours, the mosquito most likely to carry West Nile virus, Culex quinquefasciatus, is active. If you must go out, cover up and use a repellent. It is important that everyone use protection against mosquito-borne disease. trash and debris does not belong in storm drains. Lawn clippings and yard trimmings create breeding sites in storm drains. assume responsibility for your residence and fight the bite! to learn more, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ mosquitoinfo or call 281-210-3800.
Saturday, October 6, 2012
8203 Millennium Forest Drive 10 to 11 a.m.
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Your village needs your caps and corks!
Are you saving yours for the 3R Bazaar? Help your village win the challenge.
Check www.capscando.org/html/ plastic_cap_recycling.html for types of clean, plastic caps accepted. start saving now!
Friday,
The Woodlands Township Recreation Center
Application Deadline
Friday, September 7, 2012
Auditions:
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Make a
the Woodlands township is known for its outstanding pools, and with the post-season schedule, you can make a splash through september 30, 2012. Bear Branch Pool in the village of Cochran’s Crossing will be open from 1 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and closed Wednesdays each week for service. the following pools are open saturdays from noon to 6 p.m., sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. and Labor Day Monday from noon to 6 p.m.:
alden Bridge Pool ............................................................Alden Bridge
Bear Branch Pool .................................................... Cochran’s Crossing
Harper’s Landing Pool ..................................................... College Park
Rob Fleming aquatic Center ...................................... Creekside Park
sawmill Pool .................................................................... Grogan’s Mill
Falconwing Pool............................................................. Indian Springs
Creekwood Pool ............................................................ Panther Creek
Cranebrook Pool ............................................................ Sterling Ridge
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www.usapaella.com nintaijujutsu@gmail.com
www.DoneRightRemodeling.net
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
