September 2019

Now Is the Time for a Career in Real Estate, Loan, Inspection or Appraisal!

If you are considering a career in real estate or any related real estate field, you need to know how fortunate you are to live in Texas. The following are reasons Texas agents and affiliates are excited about our economy:

• Texas is the #2 state for largest resident inflows! That means more houses to sell and more businesses moving into our state. U-Haul National Migration Trend Reports

• Texas housing sales rose 3.3% and average days on market are 57. Inventory levels remain historically low at 3.7 months Recenter.tamu.edu

• Texas’ pace of job creation exceeded the nation’s for the year with an annual growth rate of 2.1%; the nation’s rate is at 1.7% Recenter.tamu.edu

• F ive cities in Texas are in Forbes Top 25 Best Places to Live in the U.S . The most from any state!

Champions School of Real Estate® is your choice school for a new career!

We have counselors at our brick and mortar schools in every major metropolitan area of Texas to help counsel you with any question you may have. We also have online counselors and live chat for our customers

• Look at our page of testimonials from our thousands of satisfied real estate, loan officer, inspector and appraiser students! They love us! Choose to be a Champion™!

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SPIRIT

Platinum

Woman of the Year Honoree - Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Texas (2013)

Top 50 Most Influential Women in Houston (2010)

Texas State WCR Chapter Business Woman of the Year (2008)

Named in National Top 25 Most Influential People in Real Estate by ActiveRain.com (2007)

NAR REBAC Realtor® Hall of Fame (2003)

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

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

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

from the woodlands township 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.

Patriot Day of Remembrance and First Responders Day in The Woodlands

TheWoodlands Township Board of Directors will host a Patriot Day of Remembrance and First Responders Day on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, to honor those we have lost and those who protect us. All residents are invited to attend to remember the fallen of September 11, 2001, and to thank all First Responders who continue to serve and to sacrifice for our safety during times of disaster.

For the most up to date information on the day of the event, including weather updates or postponement of any kind, please follow The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TownshipParksandRec.

Patriot Day of Remembrance

The Woodlands Fire Department

Central Station, 9951 Grogan’s Mill Rd. The Woodlands, TX 77380 7:30 to 8 a.m.

First Responders Day in The Woodlands

Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77380

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Brian Boniface Director

John McMullan Vice Chairman

Bruce Rieser Director

No. 4

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary Position No. 6

Carol Stromatt Director Position No. 7

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer Position No. 3

The Woodlands COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Woodlands Township, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to residents of The Woodlands. The printing and distribution of The Woodlands Community Magazine are supported entirely by advertising revenue. Please patronize the advertisers whenever possible, and tell them you saw their ad in this magazine and appreciate their support.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Charlotte Blanco Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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

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

www.championsprinting.com

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

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

You’d go to the ends of the earth to find the best quality of care and outcomes for your kids. Lucky for you, you don’t have to. As the only children’s hospital in Texas consistently ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report – with top 10 rankings in all 10 specialties –and the only hospital in our area with a dedicated focus on treating children from birth to 18, we’re honored to be one more reason you’re proud to call Houston home.

Learn what makes us the best at texaschildrens.org/best.

Give Crime and Drugs a Going Away Party

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT in The Woodlands

Sunday, October 13, 2019

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites everyone to join together with their neighbors and public safety personnel on Sunday, October 13, 2019, for an afternoon out against crime. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer. National Night Out creates a sense of community by bringing residents and the public safety agencies that serve The Woodlands Township together under positive circumstances.

Participating in National Night Out since 1990, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, public safety officials and the community have won numerous awards for the way we unite and celebrate our police-community

By Kristin Pternitis

partnerships. On Sunday, October 13, 2019, from 3 to 6 p.m., residents are asked to lock their doors and gather with their neighbors. When your neighborhood participates in National Night Out, it accomplishes one of the first steps in crime prevention, “neighbor knowing neighbor.”

Hosting a National Night Out party is just the way to bring your neighbors together!

Take this opportunity to send a message that your neighborhood is united against crime. How you celebrate is up to you. It can be as simple as providing popsicles, or as elaborate as playing games and hosting a barbecue. All you need to do is gather your neighbors and participate! Local law enforcement and The Woodlands Fire Department will briefly visit with many of the neighborhoods that register their parties with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch.

STEP #1 - Party registration is easy!

In 2018, more than 100 public safety personnel visited parties throughout The Woodlands. To join in on the fun and receive a public safety visit, your neighborhood must complete the

registration form. To register, just visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout. There you can find the National Night Out Party Guide and frequently asked questions. You can also call The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800 and ask for the program specialist assigned to your village.

Even if you want to keep it simple and don’t need supplies or a visit from the various public safety agencies, we encourage you to register your party. It’s important for us to know how many neighborhoods participate in this community-building event. Be an early bird, and register your neighborhood party by September 6, 2019, to be eligible for a prize! Once you’ve filled out the party registration form, a program specialist with Neighborhood Watch will contact you to make sure we have all the details needed. The final day to register and to receive a public safety visit is Friday, October 4, 2019.

STEP #2 - National Night Out Packet Pickup Day, September 26, 2019, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest

Theme Party Contest

Chalk Art Competition

Boulevard. If you wish, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch can provide you with National Night Out party supplies. Pre-registration is helpful and assists us in determining your needs so your supplies are ready on Packet Pickup Day. Available supplies may include balloons, giveaways, yard signs, party ideas and more!

Food Drive in partnership with Interfaith of The Woodlands

Nonperishable food items collected at your National Night Out party can be dropped off directly at Interfaith, 4242 Interfaith Way, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., October 14 through October 18, 2019. Please make sure to mention National Night Out when giving your donations to Interfaith. Together we can make a difference to alleviate hunger in South Montgomery County.

National Night Out Military Drive

Support our military and collect items at your National Night Out Neighborhood Party. A full list of items needed is available in the Party Guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout. Donated items will be collected at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, October 14 - 18, 2019, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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. One party from each village will be drawn from the parties registered to participate in the challenge. A “burglar,” along with a “good guy” will be escorted by a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy to the party chosen from each village. The neighborhood must work together as a team to help identify the burglar!

Car Seat Check

Thursday, September 5, 2019

9 a.m. to noon

Central Fire Station

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

Community Safety Expo

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Noon to 3 p.m

Northshore Park

2505

Neighborhood Parties

Sunday, October 13, 2019

3

Concert in the Park

Sunday, October 13, 2019

5:30 to 7:30

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes policecommunity partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer.

•

• Conroe Independent School District

• Department of Public Safety (DPS)

• FBI

• Harris Count Constable

• Harris County Sheriff’s Office

• Homeland Security

• Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Montgomery County 9-1-1

• Montgomery County Hospital District

•

• Texas Rangers

•

•

•

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381 This free hands-on event is fun for all ages and offers residents the chance to meet and thank the public safety agencies that keep them safe.

• Climb aboard the Homeland Security MRAP tank and Mobile Command Center.

• Climb inside an ambulance, fire truck and patrol car.

• Try on SWAT gear.

• Meet FBI and DEA agents or a Texas Ranger.

• Explore the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Mobile Command Unit and Harris County Constable Precinct 4 Hummer.

• Climb aboard the Harris County Sheriff’s Office rescue boat.

• Law Enforcement K-9s show how they detect narcotics and explosives and how they assist in apprehending criminals.

• Entergy shows the dangers of contact with power lines.

• Firefighters demonstrate their equipment and fire safety tips.

• Montgomery County Hospital District demonstrates Hands-Only CPR.

• Distracted or impaired driving simulators

• Distracted driving glasses and virtual reality goggles

• DUI pedal cars

• Marijuana-simulated goggles from Texas A&M Agri-Life Extension Service Watch UR BAC programDriveHigh,GetaDWI campaign

Smarter

Greater reliability. And a brighter future.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

The Board of Directors recently proclaimed August as Back to School and Distracted Driving Prevention Month, featuring the Safe 2 Save Distracted Driving Village Challenge with Allstate Insurance Agent, Herminia Sitter. The Board encouraged residents to join the Township’s Safe 2 Save Distracted Driving Village Challenge and participate in the “Tech Free for Me” Driving Pledge. This initiative aims to raise awareness and provide distracted driving education to help keep drivers and pedestrians safe.

On Thursday, July 18, 2019, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors approved funding for signage for the designation of the George P. Mitchell Memorial Highway along a portion of Interstate 45 in Montgomery County from the HarrisMontgomery County line to State Highway 242.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently recognized the Township lifeguards for their first place finishes at the 2019 Super Guard Regional Competition and the 2019 Gulf Coast Guard Games competition.

Super Guard and Gulf Coast Guard Games are regional lifeguard competitions that require lifeguards to react to simulated scenarios. In each scenario, the team must work together to identify the challenge and its dangers to those in the area. To learn more, please see the article on page 24.

Pictured left to right are Sgt. Mike Ruby, Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4, Township Director Bruce Rieser, Township Secretary Dr. Ann K. Snyder, Township Chairman Gordy Bunch, Herminia Sitter, Township Director Carol Stromatt, Township Treasurer John Anthony Brown and Captain Tim Holifield of Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, District 6.

Pictured left to right are Township Treasurer John Anthony Brown, Township Director Bruce Rieser, Township Chairman Gordy Bunch, State Representative Steve Toth and Township Director Carol Stromatt.

The Township Board of Directors honored its award-winning lifeguards at a recent board meeting. See more on page 24.

INCORPORATION 101

STEP 5: PUBLIC FORUM

N S tepsto

Step 5 in the Incorporation Planning Study is a public forum for residents of The Woodlands. The first forum was held in September 2018 and can be viewed in its entirety online at www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy. com/community-forum-september-2018.

requested additional research.

START HERE

Since that time, the Board received the results of the parallel financial analysis, changed lead consulting firms and has

1

Zoning vs C ovenants

In late July 2019, a public meeting and planning session was held to discuss infrastructure maintenance costs, public works department options, municipal utility district issues, incorporation decision timeline, community outreach and the upcoming schedule for the study. This meeting can also be viewed online in its entirety at

https://woodlandstx. new.swagit.com/videos/30291.

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

Comple te law enforc ement stud y

2 3

I N

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

• Law enforcement serv ices

• Road maintenance

• Road constructi on

• Tr af fic management

• Water sewer stor m dr ainage

• Zoning

• Planning and development se rv ices

• Municipal cour t serv ices

As fall 2019 begins, the study is ongoing. The Township encourages residents to follow the study at www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com to learn more, make your voice heard and get involved in this important decision for The Woodlands.

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

4

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

5

6

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

7

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

Public forum for To wn ship residen ts

Pu blic forum for Town ship resi dents

Incorporation

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

10

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

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

Grow Your Own Mosquitoes

JUST ADD WATER!

By Megan McNairn

Is the street wet after your sprinklers turn off? That extra water isn’t just going down the storm drain — it’s breeding mosquitoes, too. Cooler in summer and warmer in winter, storm sewers provide a climate-controlled environment for mosquitoes. When irrigation runoff keeps the system wet between rains — and lawn clippings get blown in after mowing — it creates the ideal mosquito breeding habitat.

Leaves, grass and other yard debris ferment in the catch basin, creating a pool of sludgy, smelly water. The southern house mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, searches out these putrid pools on which to lay her eggs. Mosquito larvae eat the broken down bits of plant material, and the next generation of adults flies out of the storm drain in a mere seven days. This species is particularly concerning as it can carry West Nile virus.

Compounding the issue, heavy rains flush these pockets of sludgy water into nearby ditches and streams, lowering dissolved oxygen levels and harming fish, dragonfly nymphs and other aquatic life. These organisms provide important natural control of, you guessed it, mosquitoes.

So bag yard trimmings for weekly curbside pickup, or compost them in your yard. Visit The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency website at www.wjpa.org where you can request a free inspection of your irrigation system through the W.I.S.E. Guys program. While you are there, check out the “Ask an Irrigator” section for topics such as the cycleand-soak method, how to tune up your system and how to install drip irrigation.

To report areas where mosquitoes are a problem, to request surveillance or arrange a presentation, please contact the Township’s Environmental Services Department at enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or call 281-210-3800.

www.genesisdoctors.com

Keeping irrigation water on the lawn and out of storm drains helps to reduce the ideal breeding site for mosquitoes.

22nd Annual WOODLANDS LANDSCAPING SOLUTIONS

Make the Most of Your Home Landscape

By Amber Barnes

Saturday, September 28, 2019

9 a.m. to noon

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands

Everyone is welcome to attend this free event!

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions has been a featured community event hosted by The Woodlands Township’s Environmental Services Department for more than 20 years, and this year’s event is the biggest yet!

Join us and connect with experts in current landscaping and gardening methods, proven for this region. Topics covered include lawn and garden care, native plants, vegetable gardening, backyard composting, drip irrigation, identifying common garden insects, attracting bees and butterflies to your yard, collecting and storing rainwater and growing plants from seeds or cuttings.

What’s more, at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions, attendees will find these great services such as presentations on Home Pollinator Gardening with Lauren Simpson and Lawn Care with Tom Leroy, Montgomery County Master Gardeners available to answer your questions and diagnose specific problems

in your garden, free perennials, annuals and vouchers for native milkweed, and native plants, rain barrels, compost and compost bins for sale.

Planning fall landscaping projects and spring gardens is easier with help from some of the area’s best resources — and you can find them all at Woodlands Landscaping Solutions. Don’t miss it!

For information, please call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment.

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions is organized by The Woodlands Township and sponsored by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, Montgomery County Master Gardener Association, Waste Management, Alspaugh’s Ace Hardware, Texas AgriLife Extension, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Nature’s Way Resources and The Ground Up.

Expanding our team of leaders in SPECIALTY CARE

Houston Methodist Welcomes Dr. Mohammed Z. Ansari

Mohammed Z. Ansari, MD, joins Houston Methodist Specialty Physician Group in The Woodlands. He is fellowship trained in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism. His areas of expertise include:

• Diabetes

• Hyperthyroidism

• Hypothyroidism

• Lipid disorders

• Rare endocrine disorders

• Osteoporosis, b one and calcium disorders

• Pituitary and adrenal disease

• Thyroid nodules

Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital 17189 Interstate 45 S. | Medical Office Building 2, Suite 505 The Woodlands, TX 77385

houstonmethodist.org/appointments 936.270.4400

From left:

Shivani Toma, MD, endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism

Mohammed Z. Ansari, MD, endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism

Shazia Gill, MD, infectious diseases

Holly Smith, MD, rheumatology

houstonmethodist.org/appointments 936.270.4400

September 2019

Start saving Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries to bring to the 3R Bazaar at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market on Saturday, November 9, 2019. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/3RBazaar.

Sunday, September 1

Labor Day in The Woodlands Event Waterway Square

31 Waterway Square Place

5 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, September 2

Trash and Recycling Services Uninterrupted by Holiday

Township Offices Closed

Wednesday, September 4

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Budget Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, September 5

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

National Night Out Car Seat Check

Central Fire Station 9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-3883

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Saturday, September 7

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

Sunday, September 8

Concert in the Park

Northshore Park 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 7:30

281-210-3950

Sunday, September 8 –

Saturday, September 14

National Suicide Prevention Week

Tuesday, September 10

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, September 11

Patriot Day of Remembrance

Central Fire Station

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

7:30 to 8 a.m.

281-210-3800

First Responders Day in The Woodlands

Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Drive

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, September 12

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods: Our Neighborhood Bats Houston Advanced Research Center

8801 Gosling Road

6 to 7:30 p.m.

Friday, September 13

Family Bingo Night

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

6:30 to 8 pm

Saturday, September 14

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

Arts in the Park featuring Shakespeare in the Park

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

6 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Sunday, September 15

Concert in the Park

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Monday, September 16

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3889

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, September 18

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, September 19

The Woodlands Township

Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, September 21

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

Sunday, September 22

Concert in the Park

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Tuesday, September 24

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, September 25

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, September 26 –Sunday, September 29

21st Annual YMCA Dragon Boat Team Challenge

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

8 a.m. to noon and 2 to 6 p.m.

281-681-6730

www.ymcadragonboat.org

Saturday, September 28

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-3800

Backyard Composting Class 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

10 to 11 a.m.

281-210-3800

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

Please watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

Alden Bridge Village Association awarded the Wall family of North Taylor Point Yard of the Month for June (pictured above). To keep up with the Alden Bridge Village Association, please visit our website at www.aldenbridge.org.

Cochran’s Crossing

Mark your calendars for our fun, exciting Fall Festival. Our association will hold this event on Sunday, October 27, 2019, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Shadowbend Park. This is the largest event of the year for the association with approximately 1,500 participants. As in previous years, we will

have loads of activities for the kids. Events include several bouncy houses, a petting zoo, horses to ride, games, food and vendors.

If you are a vendor and would like to sponsor a booth, please contact Ginger Fray at gingerfray@yahoo.com. All proceeds from the vendors will be used to support Cochran’s Crossing scholarship and education grants for elementary teachers who teach at the three elementary schools in Cochran’s Crossing.

Cochran’s Crossing also has digital sponsorships available for area businesses. These sponsorships range in price from $300 to $500 and the proceeds also go to support our scholarship and education grants program. If you are interested, please go to our website at www.cochranscrossing.com and click on the links. You may also contact Beverly Fennessy at 713-898-0436 or via email at bfennessy1@hotmail.com.

Submitted by JC Harville

College Park

National Night Out is on Sunday, October 13, 2019. Plan to host a neighborhood party, and then contact the Township Neighborhood Watch to get your party registered!

Also next month, the College Park board will host the ever-popular annual Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday, October 26, 2019, in Harper’s Landing Park. This is a favorite event for residents of College Park. It includes games, a Halloween costume contest, inflatables, a trackless train and the beloved Trick or Treat Trail. Join neighbors throughout The Woodlands for the Township’s Environmental Services Department America Recycles and 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 9, 2019, from 8 a.m. to noon. The celebration is in its second year at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market in Grogan’s Mill. We need your support for College Park! Save your used alkaline batteries, then just drop them off with us on the day of the event. Our village will receive a monetary award based on participation. The Bazaar features household items, jewelry and clothing made from recycled products. For further information, including other items to drop off for recycling, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment.

The Water-Wise Village Challenge does not start until October, but pledges are available to sign now. A new pledge must be signed each year to be eligible for the Water-Wise Village Challenge. Last year, College Park residents put us in first

Save the date for the Cochran’s Crossing Fall Festival on Sunday, October 27, 2019. This free event will offer fun for the whole family.

There is fun for everyone at the Cochran’s Crossing Fall Festival.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

place by committing to turn their sprinklers off from October 15 until April 15. Put College Park in first place again and sign up! Remember that hand watering is allowed. Monetary awards from this challenge and the battery recycling are used to fund student scholarships and teacher grants for College Park residents.

Did you know that the Montgomery County Food Bank can accommodate up to 150 volunteers every day? The food bank feeds 35,000 residents a month. If you and your family are interested in volunteering to serve with College Park, please watch as this initiative unfolds with further information on our website and Facebook.

It has been mentioned here before that each month we receive a crime report from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Crime statistics for the month of June were down. Officer Fitzgerald advised that crime victims should always report the crime, even if it results in no loss or harm to you. These details help the police to identify patterns or trends and to insert their presence where needed most.

College Park’s website will continue to offer monthly news and information, www.villageofcollegepark.com.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Creekside Park

Greetings, Creekside residents! September is here and the kids are back to school. Where did our summer go…

Creekside Park Village had a lot of fun and exciting events this summer to keep us busy. On June 1, 2019, your Creekside Park Village Association board and Creekside Forest Elementary of Tomball ISD dedicated the first LittleFreeLibrary.org location in Creekside Park. With the help of the Junior League and future Eagle Scout Tony Santos of Troop 1180, the ribbon-cutting was a success, with many local officials in attendance to mark this occasion.

On June 22, 2019, we hosted our annual pool party at Wendtwoods Pool. Almost 300 residents came out and enjoyed the beautiful weather, free snow cones and, of course, free swimming for all residents. If you missed out, look for this fun event next year! We list future events on our Facebook page and on The Woodlands Township Calendar of Events. We also had visits from our local firehouse station and the Constables of Precinct #4.

In July, we were involved with the South Montgomery County Fourth of July

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MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

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

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

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

CREEKSIDE PARK www.creeksideparkvillage.com

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

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

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

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

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

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

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

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

*Meets at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Drifting Shadows Involvement Day

By Keith Weaver

AnInvolvement Day was held in Misty Dawn Park on Saturday, June 15, 2019, for the Drifting Shadows neighborhood of College Park/Harper’s Landing. More than 35 residents attended, in addition to Township staff members representing Covenant Administration, Environmental Services, Neighborhood Services and Parks and Recreation. Involvement Days are held throughout the year in various neighborhoods in The Woodlands. These events help maintain and encourage healthy vibrant neighborhoods and maintain property values. More than 55 gallons of used latex paint were collected for recycling, plus a 30-yard dumpster was filled with residents’ unwanted bulky items. Involvement Days are hosted by The Woodlands Township. To learn more, please contact Covenant Administration at 281-210-3800

Creekside Park Village Association, Creekside Forest Elementary, Junior League and Boy Scouts marked the dedication of liitlefreelibrary.org in Creekside.

Parade, and a special thank-you goes out to the Bridenstone Family for building a beautiful float for our village. The hard work and effort put into the float was awarded to the family and the village as Creekside Park Village Association won the Best Community Entry Award!

Another honor received by Creekside Park Village was the selection of Charles Abell as the Military Grand Marshal for the parade. What an honor to have him representing our village. Thank you to him and all our service men and women for all their service past and present!

Safety is important at all times of the year; however, on Sunday, October 13, 2019, from 3 to 6 p.m., The Woodlands will be celebrating National Night Out. This is a night to lock your doors, turn on your outside lights and celebrate the evening with your friends and neighbors to establish ownership of your neighborhood. Knowing your neighbors is not only fun, but it is also a great way to increase the safety of your neighborhood by knowing

who belongs and who doesn’t. Start planning your event/party now. For timelines and party ideas, please visit The Woodlands Township at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout.

Look for events and village meeting information on the Creekside Park Village Association Facebook page and on our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com. We look forward to seeing you at our next association meeting on the first Tuesday of the month unless otherwise communicated. Till next time!

Submitted by Lisa Purtell

Grogan’s Mill

Patriotic fireworks of red, white and blue splashed across a framed white banner which cruised the July Fourth parade route displayed in a white vintage convertible. The banner brought cheers from the crowd as loudspeakers announced, “Grogan’s Mill Village, the vintage village, improving with age.”

Pointing out that fact, and maybe bragging a bit, our Grogan’s Mill sponsored banner proclaimed the same message. All along the parade route, the crowd showed appreciation for the clever combination of

vintage village and vintage vehicle. It was clever fun.

The fabulous 1964 Oldsmobile Catalina convertible is owned and was driven by Dava and Jack King. The colorful fireworks displayed on the banner exploded out of a 1974 vintage champagne bottle, the year the village of Grogan’s Mill was established by George Mitchell as the first village of our now very large township.

The July Yard of the Month went to Rick and Carmen Sanchez, who have lived in High Oaks for eight years. Their yard is filled with iron plants, sago palms, azaleas, monkey grass, purple hearts and small stag ferns. Carmen and her two daughters are proud of their work to keep the yard looking good for all the neighbors to see.

Bring your used alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries from your home, workplace, friends and families. We narrowly missed being in first place last year. We’re now up to over 1,000 pounds and counting! You can bring them to the Farmer’s Market where we will hold them until the challenge officially begins. We could win up to $1,000 which we use to support schools and student scholarships in Grogan’s Mill.

Our Village Association is pleased to welcome Andrew Coakley as its newest

Dava and Jack King drove their 1964 Oldsmobile Catalina convertible in the South County Fourth of July Parade.

Precinct 4 Constables visited with residents.

Creekside Park’s award-winning float.

director, replacing Steve Potluck who resigned. Andrew is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. He and his wife Blaire, a native Texan, moved to The Woodlands in 2012 and have three young children.

With cooler days a few weeks away, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is still offering hot deals on fruits, vegetables, honey, olive oil, crafts, food and more. The market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors, on most Saturdays we have live music and a food truck. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our website at www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ GrogansMillVillageAssociation/. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Marie Brannen

Panther Creek

A flag-waving thank-you is due to the many volunteers, veterans and residents who made our Fourth of July parade another great success. Well over 2,000 flags were passed out to young patriots along the parade route by patriotic groups, and our national holiday was a true celebration of “liberty and justice for all.”

What would summer be without an outing to the ballpark? It is time to get your tickets for our annual trip to watch the Astros win another game on their way to reclaiming the Major League Baseball World Championship. Join your neighbors on Saturday, September 21, 2019, for a luxury custom coach ride from Panther Creek to Houston to see the Astros beat the Arizona Diamondbacks. The chauffeured ride there and back includes admission to the game at $45 per person. Tickets go fast for this wonderful trip, so go to www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org to sign up to join the fun.

MORE SAVE THE DATE

NOTICES: Our semi-annual Woodlands Flea Market and Garage Sale will be held again this fall. It is a wonderful Woodlands event that grows each decade. Whether you are unloading that “extra stuff” cluttering up the house, or if you love to shop for unusual items at bargain prices, THIS is your golden opportunity. Get more details at www.WoodlandsFleaMarket.org.

National Night Out in The Woodlands for 2019 will be on October 13, 2019, from 3 to 6 p.m. If you have not attended or hosted one of the many block parties that have been held every year, please check with your area representative or M. J. Curry at 281-210-3800 to get information on how to hold one of these community enriching events and how to obtain free supplies for holding one on your street. This is a great opportunity to meet new and long-time neighbors. Make the most of our “Real Hometown Community” experience.

Whenever you will be away from home for two to 30 days, don’t forget to protect your home by notifying the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department to keep an extra eye on your property while you are gone. The program is free. Since it began years ago, NO home registered with The Vacation Watch Program has been burglarized while residents were away. Online registration is fast and easy at www.mctxsheriff.org.

For more information, find us at www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

and then join us the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. at 7 p.m. to participate and be informed.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

Greetings from the Sterling Ridge Village Association. We would encourage you to attend. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office provides a monthly update on law enforcement statistics specific to The Woodlands. Our meetings include upcoming Township happenings by the Township village program specialist assigned to Sterling Ridge. Meetings also provide time for presentations on other issues concerning the village. Sterling Ridge’s Village Association is open to the public. We meet the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Township meeting rooms located at 2801 Technology Blvd. Please plan to join us - we need your ideas to help make the village great!

Submitted by Butch Ashman

CoolOff

BEFORE THE POOLS CLOSE

Don’t miss your final weekend to enjoy the post-season pools! The Township pools close for the season on Sunday, September 8, 2019.

Post-Season (Weekends)

AUGUST 17 - SEPTEMBER 8, 2019

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

Sunday 1 to 6 p.m.

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

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

The Sanchez family of North High Oaks won the July Yard of the Month for Grogan’s Mill.

By Joseph Francis

The weather is cooling down and there is no better place than Texas TreeVentures to bring everyone you know! With three levels, 72 elements and our distinctive “challenge-by-choice” design, you are sure to have a TREEmendous time! Texas TreeVentures is located on the campus of The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389. Operating hours vary on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout the school year. Please visit our website at www.texastreeventures.com or call 281-210-2048 to learn more about reservation availability. Look for an amended schedule during the Thanksgiving and Winter Break Holidays. Join us for Sunsets and S’mores this fall at Texas TreeVentures! This is a brand new monthly program. Climb on the course right up until sunset and then make s’mores by the campfire. Reservations are required for these events, so book early.

2019 SUNSETS AND S’MORES DATES

October 4, 2019 • November 1, 2019 • December 6, 2019

Three levels and 72 elements make for a challenge-bychoice adventure at Texas TreeVentures, located at The Rob Fleming Recreation Center in The Woodlands.

TOWNSHIPAccolades

The Woodlands Township Lifeguards

Excel at Regional Competitions

The Woodlands Township lifeguard team took first place at the 2019 Super Guard Regional Competition in College Station, Texas, earlier this summer. Additionally, the Township lifeguards garnered first place at the Gulf Coast Guard Games.

“The Woodlands Township lifeguards are an exceptional group who strive daily to keep residents and visitors safe at the community pools. These teams are a vital component to our overall training program,” said Parks and Recreation Director Chris Nunes. “We are very proud of their first place finishes at Super Guard and the Gulf Coast Guard Games.”

Super Guard and Gulf Coast Guard Games are regional lifeguard competitions that require lifeguards to react to simulated scenarios. The teams are judged on accurately identifying and appropriately responding to the issues presented to them as well as the quality of customer service they provide during the challenge.

The Woodlands Township lifeguard team (pictured above) took first place at the 2019 Super Guard Regional Competition. Pictured from bottom to top, left to right: Lifeguard Coordinator Carly Cronin, Mason Moseley, Coach/Lifeguard Zone Sheridan Elias, Jeremy Robbins, Abby Winnier, Macey Johnson, Aedan Hale, Jackson Kovin, Emma Cade, Jenna Jaffray, Makayla Vasquez, Isabella Balestrini, Grace Glatas, Sarah Thomas, Lauren Barnes, Elizabeth Francis, Emily Seelig, Wyatt Cade, Evan Murphy, Anthony Weeks, Samantha Curry, Sebastian Padilla, Rafael Elejalde, Reid Hill, Nick Provost, Zachary Jilg, Philip Gavino, Kylie Brooks, Michael Wolf and Christian Barnett.

The Woodlands Township lifeguard team (pictured right) took first place at the 2019 Gulf Coast Games. Pictured from left to right: Bridget Wilson, Elizabeth Francis, Abby Winnier, Emily Seelig, Flo Garcia, Jacob Raiford, Phillip Gavino, Chrisitan Barnett, Grace Galatas, Ryan Katri and Emma Cade.

Stay Safe During Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is underway in Texas and advance preparation is the key to staying safe before, during and after a storm.

The Woodlands Township urges residents to assemble emergency kits and gather supplies now. By taking the steps to prepare ahead of time, residents can avoid the traffic, lines and supply shortages that are all too familiar just before a storm strikes.

During and after a hurricane or other disaster you may not have access to electricity, water and ice, pharmacies, food, fuel, banks/ATMs, television, internet, cellular telephone connections and convenience stores.

Your emergency supply kit should include bottled water, nonperishable food, flashlights, battery-powered or hand crank radio, important documents and more. For a complete list, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency.

While you’re restocking your emergency supply kit, make sure you also have access to all of The Woodlands Township communication tools. During an emergency, the Township will utilize all methods available including e-mail, text, website updates, social media and local media outlets.

Select Your Communication Method

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/notifyme

The Notify Me page of the Township website is where residents can sign up for alerts. You can sign up for the weekly Talk of the Township eNewsletter, communitywide emergency alerts, press releases and transit alerts.

Follow The Woodlands Township on Social Media

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/stayinformed

Social media was a critical communication tool used before, during and after Hurricane Harvey. Follow the official Township Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for important updates.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Information can also be accessed via the Township Instagram account

@thetownshiptx

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

For Township updates:

@TheTownshipTX

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

@TownshipTransit

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/ thewoodlandstownship

“Like” our Facebook page(s). Click the “Following” button. Select “See First” in your news feed.

Other Emergency Resources

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/emergency

www.ready.gov

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

Some things you should know about the 2019 storm season

By Bob Dailey

1. Drainage in The Woodlands is designed to reduce, but cannot eliminate, flood risk to homes.

2. Ponding in streets and water over curbs during heavy downpours is normal. The streets in The Woodlands are designed to hold excess water.

3. Residents should ensure that there is proper drainage into the street, which means there should be nothing to obstruct water from escaping the yard. Remember to open gates, remove things like garbage and recycle containers and potted plants — anything that can impede water flow.

4. If you have not already purchased NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) flood insurance, we urge you to do it now. The average cost of flood insurance in Texas is about $595 per year, but it is often less in our area. A mere inch of water can cause approximately $25,000 in damage to a home, which makes flood insurance a wise investment.

5. Make sure that your homeowner’s insurance coverage, and flood insurance if you have already purchased it, are in order and up to date.

How to buy flood insurance

Flood insurance cannot be purchased directly from the NFIP. It’s only available through an insurance agent or an insurer who participates in the NFIP. If your agent does not sell flood insurance, contact the NFIP Referral Call Center at 1-800-427-4661 to request an agent referral. Remember that contents and building coverages are purchased separately. For the Preferred Risk Policy, homeowners do have an option to buy combination coverage, but there are always separate deductibles.

For more information about NFIP flood insurance, see www.fema.gov/ national-flood-insurance-program. The above article was provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, www.wjpa.org.

SMARTER CHOICES SEMINAR:

Healthy Yards = Healthy Waterways

By Teri MacArthur

Want the best looking yard on the block with more blooms but less work?

Whetheryour aim is a greener lawn, more native plants or saving big on water use, the Township’s Environmental Services Department has the resources you need to create your ideal yard. Visit in person or online to find useful information. Or, join us at one of the many classes offered this fall, like the upcoming Smarter Choices Seminar: Healthy Yards = Healthy Waterways.

Making smarter choices in your landscaping not only creates healthier yards, but supports cleaner waterways. And we need it! More than 80 percent of waterways in Texas are listed as “impaired” by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Some of the most common contributors to unhealthy waterways can be easily managed:

• Grass clippings, fertilizers and pet waste create a toxic environment for aquatic life by increasing levels of

The Woodlands Township can help!

algae and vegetation, which reduces the oxygen level in the water.

• Pet waste generates most of the high bacteria levels in our area waterways and leads to restrictions on contact recreation – swimming, wading, fishing and kayaking.

• Pesticides, auto fluids, fertilizers and other chemicals that wash into the stormwater runoff also contribute to the degradation of water quality.

Properly disposing of these pollutants not only improves water quality, but helps manage the cost to treat surface water that

is needed for drinking and household use. Managing the waste produced by home and landscape maintenance is the first step to creating a healthy yard. Looking for more simple ways to improve your yard? The Smarter Choices Seminar is coming up, and it’s just for you! Grab a friend and come learn about:

• Integrating native plants

• Improving lawn irrigation methods

• Saving water

• Organic alternatives to chemicals

• Creating healthier waterways

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department presents this workshop on Saturday, October 5, 2019, at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center, 16135 IH-45 South, Conroe, TX 77385 from 8 a.m. to noon. The workshop is FREE, but space is limited. Registration is required. Find details and registration information at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment or call 281-210-3800 for questions.

MEMORIAL HERMANN 10 FOR TEXAS

By Liz Aguirre

Registration still open and volunteers needed!

There are still limited spaces available for the 14th Annual Memorial Hermann

10 for Texas 10-mile race, 3.1 Armadillo Run 5K and One 4 Texas Kids’ Fun Run taking place Saturday, October 12, 2019, from 7 to 11:30 a.m. at Northshore Park. After racing to the finish, participants will enjoy a Texas-sized post-race party featuring live country music!

The 10-mile registration fee includes a participant shirt, finisher medal, hat, participant race packet and post-race food and beverages. 5K registration fee includes a participant shirt, finisher medal, participant race packet and post-race food and beverages (hat not included). One 4 Texas registration fee includes T-Shirt, finisher medal, participant race packet and post-race food and beverages. All races will be capped to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants.

It takes hundreds of volunteers to make this event possible! For more information and to sign up to volunteer, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/volunteer.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, please email races@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas is a USA Track & Field (USATF) sanctioned event with a certified 10-mile course. Don’t delay – register today! www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/10fortexas.

By Holly Steinke

Did you ever stop to think about what people around you are thinking? If they aren’t doing well, would you know it? Sometimes the illness isn’t obvious and sometimes it isn’t physical. So, what are some of the warning signs for suicide?

SUICIDE PREVENTION: Watch for These Warning Signs

“September is National Suicide Prevention Month. All month, mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members unite to promote suicide prevention awareness. Understanding the issues concerning suicide and mental health is an important way to take part in suicide prevention, help others in crisis, and change the conversation around suicide.”

– National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

distress, not a harmless bid for attention, and should not be ignored.” Multiple psychotherapies and medications may be beneficial, so treatment options are available.

Here are some local resources that may be able to help:

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), suicide is a major public health concern. Over 40,000 people die by suicide each year in the Unites States; it is the 10th leading cause of death overall. Suicide is complicated and tragic but it is often preventable. Knowing the warning signs for suicide and how to get help can help save lives.

The behaviors listed below may be signs that someone is thinking about suicide. Please see the NIMH website at www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention/index.shtml for the complete listing.

• Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves

• Talking about feeling empty, hopeless or having no reason to live

• Making a plan or looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online

• Talking about great guilt or shame

• Talking about feeling trapped or feeling that there are no solutions

• Feeling unbearable pain (emotional or physical)

• Talking about being a burden to others

• Using alcohol or drugs more often

• Saying goodbye to friends and family

If you, or someone you know, is having a difficult time or suicidal thoughts, it’s important to get help by calling the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or reaching out to local resources for help. “According to NIMH, many people have risk factors but do not attempt suicide. Suicidal thoughts or actions are a sign of extreme

9-1-1

Montgomery County

Tri-County Behavioral Healthcare

www.tricountyservices.org

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

1-800-659-6994

Routine Services ........................................... 1-800-550-8408

Mental Health Services Questions 936-521-6100

Harris County

The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD

www.theharriscenter.org

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

Information

713-970-7000, option 1

713-970-7000, option 2

Yes To Youth (Montgomery County)

www.sayyestoyouth.org

Get help! 24/7 Hotline 888-756-8682

Local family doctor for information and referral

Cassidy Joined for Hope

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

Resource information is provided as a service to the community by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch and is not intended to endorse any particular program. For more information on suicide prevention, please visit the complete NIMH website at www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicideprevention/index.shtml. For more information on The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/neighborhoodwatch.

www.REDACU.com

Host Your Next Event With The Woodlands Township

By Michael Corbett

Areyou planning an event? Did you know The Woodlands Township recreation centers have space available to rent? No matter what you are planning, the recreation centers have a room that will work for you. The multi-purpose rooms and gymnasium are great for small birthday parties, meetings or baby showers. The beautiful Brady Hall is perfect for weddings and banquets!

Planning a company picnic or family reunion? Consider a full facility rental so you can utilize both indoor and outdoor space, including the treehouses, tipis and amphitheater. All rooms are available during regular business hours as well as after business hours for private events.

The next time you are planning an event, we encourage you to stop by your local recreation center for more information. Room rentals are subject to availability and some restrictions do apply. Some events may require a special event permit depending on event details, number of guests, amplified sound, fundraising, etc.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/parksandrecreation and choose Facilities and Rentals in the left menu, or call 281-210-3800 for more information.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

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

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

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

Enrollment

The tipis at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park offer a unique setting for a variety of get-togethers.

Multi-purpose rooms and a gymnasium are available for rent to host birthday celebrations, weddings, meetings

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture Series Kicks Off This Month!

By Amber Barnes

The Walk in the Woods nature lecture series offers a lens into the beauty and wonder of our natural world. Regional experts provide a close-up look at some of the extraordinary plants and wildlife that abound in The Woodlands, southeast Texas and beyond. Walk in the Woods is FREE and all ages are invited to attend. Registration is required.

LECTURES AND SPEAKERS

Our Neighborhood Bats

Diana Foss, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Thursday, September 12, 2019

6 to 7:30

HARC, 8801 Gosling Road, The Woodlands, 77381

Vampires, Zombies and Body Snatchers (Creepy, Crawly Bugs)

Megan McNairn, The Woodlands Township

Thursday, October 10, 2019

6 to 7:30 p.m.

HARC, 8801 Gosling Road, The Woodlands, 77381

An Introduction to Birds of The Woodlands

Alisa Kline, Buffalo Bayou Park

Thursday, November 14, 2019

6 to 7:30 p.m.

HARC, 8801 Gosling Road, The Woodlands, 77381