September 2022

On the Cover

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 9-1-1

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

The Woodlands Township Board of

By Liz Aguirre

John Anthony Brown Treasurer, Position 3

Bruce Rieser Vice Chairman, Position 4

Gordy Bunch Chairman, Position 1

Jason J. Nelson Director, Position 2

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Secretary, Position 5

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Director, Position 6

Bob Milner Director, Position 7 Monique Sharp President and CEO

Photo by Perry Frank

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.

Advertising inquiries, rate requests and change of address/ delivery inquiries may be directed to Champions Printing & Publishing, 6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G, Houston, TX, 77069, 281-583-7661.

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.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executive Jim Callahan

Graphic Designer 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

6608 FM 1960 W.,

77069

in case you missed it

2023 Township Budget

The Woodlands Township will adopt its budget for 2023 prior to September 15, 2022, Board of Directors meeting. Complete information was not available as of press time for this magazine, however more information is available on the Township’s website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. The Township’s history of lowering the tax rate to effectively manage property owners’ tax burden can be seen in the slides below. The Township’s property tax represents approximately nine percent of a property owner’s total tax levy in Harris County and approximately 12 percent in Montgomery County for an average home value of $500,000.

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in The Woodlands

The

Woodlands Township invites residents to celebrate Labor Day weekend in The Woodlands on Sunday, September 4, 2022, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Waterway Square, 31 Waterway Square Place. The free event features live music by Leslie Lugo Band, activities for children, strolling entertainment, pie eating contests for youth and adults, and more. The event culminates with a fireworks display, weather permitting.

For more information about this event, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/laborday.

Photo by Perry Frank

Give Crime and Drugs a GoingAway Party

By Kristin Pternitis

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites neighbors and public safety personnel to join together on Sunday, October 2, 2022, 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.

By participating in National Night Out, your neighborhood accomplishes one of the first steps in crime prevention: neighbor knowing neighbor. Since 1990, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, public safety and the community have won numerous awards for uniting and celebrating an outstanding policecommunity partnership.

Host a National Night Out Party!

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. 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: Register your party!

To join in on the fun and receive a public safety visit, your neighborhood must complete the registration form. To register, please visit the website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout or call 281-210-3800 and ask for the program specialist assigned to your village.

Be an early bird and register your neighborhood party by September 2, 2022, to be eligible for a prize! The final day to register and to receive a public safety visit is Friday, September 23, 2022.

STEP 2: Packet Pickup Day

Stop by Thursday, September 22, 2022, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard – West Entrance, to pick up your packet.

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!

Additional National Night Out Party Activities

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 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., October 3 through October 7, 2022. 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, from October 3 through 7, 2022, from 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!

CONTESTS AND PRIZES

Theme Party Contest

Sidewalk Chalk Art Competition

Early Bird Registration

ID the Burglar

SAVE THE DATES

Neighborhood Parties

Sunday, October 2, 2022

3 to 6 p.m.

Registered Neighborhoods

Concert in the Park

Sunday, October 16, 2022

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Northshore Park

2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

By Kristin Pternitis

National Night Out Community Safety Expo

By Susan Martin

Saturday, October 15, 2022 H Noon to 3 p.m.

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

Experience

the lights and sirens of public safety at the 2022 National Night Out Community Safety Expo. This free hands-on event is fun for all ages and allows residents to meet and thank members of the public safety agencies who keep our community safe.

Residents can interact with public safety personnel and equipment from local, state and federal agencies, ask questions and learn about their roles in our community. In addition, many local organizations that focus on the health and safety of our community will be sharing information on their available resources. Entertainment and demonstrations scheduled throughout the event will include law enforcement K-9s showing how they detect narcotics, explosives and how they assist in apprehending criminals; the Montgomery County Fire Marshal demonstrating robots used for hazmat response and SWAT support; Entergy Arcs and Sparks demonstration showing the dangers of contact with power lines; firefighters demonstrating equipment and fire safety tips; and drone display and information.

Children can jump around in the bounce house, enjoy crafts and activities, and visit with local mascots Smokey Bear, McGruff the Crime Dog and more. Hot dogs, hamburgers and sandwiches will be offered while supplies last. Donations provided by H-E-B and Dietz & Watson Meats, Firehouse Subs and Chick-fil-A.

Thank you to our Gold Sponsors for this event, Chevron Phillips Chemical and America’s ER. Please follow the Township Neighborhood Watch on Facebook at www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

Boots vs. Badges Softball Game

Saturday, September 17, 2022

7 to 8:30 p.m.

McCullough Junior High Scotland Yard Baseball Field

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

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

2012 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

2013 WINNER: The Woodlands Fire Department

2014 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

2015 WINNER: The Woodlands Fire Department

2016: Game canceled due to unforeseen circumstances

2017 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

2018 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

2019 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

2020: Game canceled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 WINNER: Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

Who will win this one? Join us at the game to find out!

For more information about National Night Out and upcoming related activities, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout.

Meet crime prevention mascots like Smokey the Bear and McGruff the Crime Dog. Take an up-close look at fire engines and safety apparatus at the Community Safety Expo. Photos by Perry Frank

Add Adventure to Friday Nights at Texas TreeVentures

By Lauren Miller

Texas

TreeVentures, a challenge-by-choice aerial adventure course, offers a variety of fun and special events this fall. Texas TreeVentures is located in The Woodlands at 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Please note, age restrictions do apply for the following events. All children ages 6 to 12 require an adult (18+) with them at all times on the course. Ticket purchase is required for all adult supervisor climbers. Additionally, start times for special events vary as the sunset changes throughout the year.

Glow Crazy: A Sunset Climb

Take a family night to new heights at Texas TreeVentures with a threehour climb while watching the sunset. When the course gets darker, the course lights and headlamps will illuminate a thrilling climb in th e dark. Ages 6 and up are welcome.

Friday .........................September 23, 2022

Friday ............................. October 21, 2022

Friday ......................... November 18, 2022

Friday December 16, 2022

Glow in the Park: A Night Climb

Have you ever wondered how fun a climb

would be at night? Experience a fun, new way to climb at Texas TreeVentures as lights illuminate the course from below, offering an exciting and different perspective. Ages 13 and up are welcome.

Friday .........................September 23, 2022

Friday ............................. October 21, 2022

Friday ......................... November 18, 2022

Friday December 16, 2022

Sunset and Snow Cones

Enjoy a climb during sunset and finish the night with yard games and a Kona Ice Snow Cone. Ages 6 and up are welcome.

Friday September 9, 2022

Sunset and S’mores

An evening climb ending with a campfire and making s’mores is our recipe for an amazing night! Join us on a designated evening of each month for our fan favorite program, “Sunset and S’mores.” Participants climb for two hours, beginning with a Gear Up and Ground School orientation. After the climb, sit around the campfire to roast marshmallows and make s’mores as the sun sets. Ages 6 and up are welcome.

Friday October 7, 2022

Friday November 4, 2022

Friday December 2, 2022

All special events at Texas TreeVentures require reservations. Special youth supervision requirements may apply. Age requirements and price may vary per event. Group discounts are not offered. All climb times begin with a Gear Up and Ground School orientation.

For more information, please call 281-210-2048 or visit our website at www.texastreeventures.com and click on Special Events at the top of the page.

Glow in the Park with a night climb at Texas TreeVentures. Headlamps and course lights will illuminate your way after the sun goes down. Photo by Maria Santos

Enjoy an evening of fun with s’mores included at Sunset and S’mores at Texas TreeVentures. Photo by Joseph Francis

Photos by Joseph Francis

Leading Orthopedic Care to KEEP YOU MOVING

Our sports medicine specialists can help keep your body in motion.

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know every movement matters. Our board-certified sports medicine specialists offer:

• The latest imaging and technology

• Advanced nonsurgical treatments

• Minimally invasive procedures

• State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy

Whether you’re suffering from simple aches and pains or dealing with a complex injury, we can get you back on your feet — and keep you moving.

Your health and safety are our priority. We are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe.

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The Woodlands

Conroe

Kingwood

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

By Amber Barnes

Woodlands Landscaping Solutions, hosted by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department, has been a featured community event for 25 years. This year’s event is the biggest yet, with live music, children’s activities and more vendors than ever.

Join the Township and connect with landscaping and gardening experts with proven methods for our region about:

• Lawn and garden care

• Native plants

• Organic vegetable gardening

• Backyard composting

• Drip irrigation

• Common garden insects

Shop our vendors:

• Native plant sales

• Rain barrels

• Attracting bees and butterflies

• Collecting and storing rainwater

• Growing plants from seeds and cuttings

• Creating bird-friendly backyards

• Compost bins and more

New this year, the Township will offer the following additions:

• Seed swap

• DIY repurposed garden art projects

• Milkweed seed giveaway

• Wildflower seed bomb project

• Live animals

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.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ landscapingsolutions. Woodlands Landscaping Solutions is a Township event and sponsored by Woodlands Water Agency, Montgomery County Master Gardener Association, Waste Management, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Howard Hughes Corporation, H-E-B and Chevron-Phillips Chemical. Interested in being a vendor? Apply by Friday, September 2, 2022. For more information, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Woodlands

Landscaping Solutions

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2022

9 A.M. TO NOON

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389

Photos by Derrick Bryant

Talk of the Township

By Kacie Gurney

official e-Newsletter of the woodlands township

The Woodlands Township strives to keep residents informed about programs, events and services available in the community. In keeping with this goal, the Township publishes a weekly email newsletter, Talk of the Township. The newsletter includes timely information about The Woodlands Township Board of Directors meetings, events and festivals, and details about services, programs and facilities managed by the Township. Talk of the Township is published on Fridays; residents can choose to receive the email in their inbox and/or via a text message link.

During times of emergency, Talk of the Township is also used to communicate updates from the Township, local agency partners and news media.

To sign up for Talk of the Township and receive weekly emails, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme. Please note, the Township will never share or sell your email address to any third-party organization.

Subscribe to the Talk of the Township weekly email newsletter by visiting www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme.

Arts in the Park: Two Great Weekends of Performing Arts

Join The Woodlands Township at Rob Fleming Park for two great weekends of performing arts. Arts in the Park featuring Shakespeare in the Park entertains spectators on Saturday, September 17, 2022, with a unique live theatre performance of Shakespeare’s “Henry V” by Points North Theatre Company and WHAM - Woodlands

Hammers and Mallets. Arts in the Park featuring The Woodlands Renaissance Faire takes the stage on Saturday, September 24, 2022, with live musical and theatre performances by local artists and The Woodlands Symphony Orchestra. Both weekends are sure to bring fun for the entire family!

Please note, Arts in the Park is a free event series. Food trucks will be on hand for snack and beverage purchases. Coolers, picnic baskets, blankets and lawn chairs are permitted. Glass is prohibited.

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

Photo by Perry Frank

By Liz Aguirre

September 2022

Please visit the Township’s online calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar for the latest information on Township-related activities.

NO CHANGES IN GARBAGE SERVICE THIS MONTH Please watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash.

Photo by Perry Frank

Alden Bridge

Hello again from Alden Bridge! This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at 7 p.m. Meetings take place at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest. Stop on by if you get a chance, especially if you have questions about your Alden Bridge neighborhood.

Check out longtime Alden Bridge residents Michael and Peggy Blount of North Bethany Bend Circle and July’s Yard of the Month winners (see photo below). The couple worked hard on their yard to add color and a patriotic theme for Fourth of July. Congratulations!

If you want to be in the winner’s circle, start thinking about the highly coveted Spookiest House in the Village Award (best Halloween decorations) at the end of October. Soon after that, it will be time to look for Alden Bridge’s best holiday decorations as part of our annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest.

Circle your calendars for November 5, 2022. You will not want to miss the annual Alden Bridge Fall Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. We are planning an even bigger adventure for young and old alike this year, with lots more to see and do. We’re planning food, games, a DJ and a rock wall. We have also added a petting zoo with some interesting furry and not-so-furry

friends! The kids will love it even more this year, so we want to see everyone out with their families to enjoy a great time at Lakeside Park.

Celebrate America Recycles Day at the 3R Recycling Drive-thru on Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Woodlands High School parking lot, 6101 Research Forest Drive. This event celebrates the importance of recycling in our community and offers a free opportunity to recycle select items that cannot be recycled in curbside carts.

This year’s Village Recycling Challenge items are incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) and LED light bulbs. No tube lights over four feet will be accepted. Light bulbs must be intact, not broken. This friendly competition awards funds for scholarships for our Alden Bridge students. The complete article on this event can be read on page 21.

Do you receive our monthly email newsletter? If you aren’t on the distribution list, please send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com so you can be in the know along with more than 1,000 neighbors with our latest news. We won’t share your email address; it will be used only to distribute news of Alden Bridge. You can also find us on Facebook (Alden Bridge Village Association) and at our website, www.aldenbridge.org.

Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend, Alden Bridge!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Cochran’s Crossing

The Woodlands Township, Cochran’s Crossing Village Association and Municipal Utility District 47 (MUD47) want residents to be aware that anything entering a storm drain inlet ends up in a nearby waterway. Pet waste, yard waste and lawn chemicals lead to water quality issues. We are hosting a joint water quality event on Saturday, September 17, 2022, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Shadowbend Park Pavilion to raise public awareness on stormwater pollution. Volunteers are installing markers on drain inlets throughout the Township as a reminder that only rain belongs in drains and roadside drainage ditches. You are invited to help keep our waterways clean and healthy! Join us at this event to learn about pollutants and contaminants in our waterways and what you can do to help.

Save the date for our annual Fall Festival at Shadowbend Park on Sunday, October 23, 2022, from noon to 4 p.m. If you have a local business or organization and are interested in being a vendor and renting a table for the event, or if you would like to volunteer for the event, please reach out to Tricia Danto at TriciaDanto@gmail.com. All proceeds will benefit the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Education Fund, which provides student scholarships and teacher grants.

All residents are invited to attend our village association board meetings which are held at 7 p.m. at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our next meetings are September 27, 2022, and October 18, 2022.

Find more information about Cochran’s Crossing Village Association online at www.cochranscrossing.com and follow us on Facebook at www. facebook.com/cochranscrossingvillage.

Submitted by Jaime DiNoia

Alden Bridge Yard of the Month winners Michael and Peggy Blount

College Park

Hello and happy fall to our residents of The Woodlands from your College Park board members. We hope that your children are enjoying their school year so far by making great grades and meeting new friends.

The College Park Village Business Expo happens on September 17, 2022, at Harper’s Landing Park, starting at 9 a.m. This is an opportunity for residents to learn about the businesses that we have within the Village of College Park. Join us to learn about the services and businesses that are available in your village.

National Night Out takes place on Sunday, October 2, 2022. Please register your neighborhood party before Friday, September 2, 2022, to be eligible for a prize. The final day to register your party for a public safety visit is Friday, September 23, 2022.

Our fall event SPOOKTACULAR scares up fun on Saturday, October 29, 2022, from 1 to 4 p.m. with food, drinks and a trick or treat trail which starts at 3:30 p.m. Costume judges will be looking for scariest, cutest and most original costumes!

Flu season is coming. Please be cautious with germs and keep your hands sanitized. Please do not be afraid to wear a mask if you feel surroundings are too close.

Stay safe when out shopping and driving. Please remember to slow down in school zones.

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Grogan's Mill

Have you signed up for our bi-monthly newsletter? It is an easy way to stay up to date with your community. To sign up, please visit www.grogansmill.org/news-and-events. Our most recent newsletter provided updates on new stores coming to the Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center.

With cooler days just a few weeks away, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is still offering hot deals on fruits, vegetables, honey, crafts, food and more. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. until noon, rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. The market hours will change back to 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in October. Bring your own bags to save on plastic.

Please visit our website at www. grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ WoodlandsFarmersMarket. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson

Panther Creek

Our annual free village picnic and pool day was the biggest in memory with more than 300 of us enjoying grilled hot dogs and hamburgers. Come join us next summer around Flag Day.

As we near the end of summer, a host of new activities awaits, and Panther Creek Village Association is leading the way. With new board members joining with existing members, everything is getting a fresh approach. Have you checked out our updated website, www. panthercreekvillageassociation.org? See if you already know some of the board members serving you. Photographs and brief biographies are posted. Several board members are working to continually update the website with helpful information. You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Even our bylaws are being reviewed for any possible improvements. If travels are in your future, don’t forget to add peace of mind to your getaway by utilizing the free Vacation Watch service offered by Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department. Over the many years of this service, they have a break-in free record.

On Saturday, October 8, 2022, join your neighbors for a free outdoor family movie night. Please check www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org for more details.

Start collecting lightbulbs and other recyclables for the annual 3R Recycling Drive-thru on Saturday, November 12, 2022. Your participation helps us fundraise for our scholarship fund. We could earn as much as $300 or even up to $1,000!

The long-anticipated Woodlands Flea Market returns on Saturday, December 3, 2022. Start gathering your items to sell in a booth or make plans to shop the market for bargains and holiday gifts.

Our monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Join us to hear monthly updates and village news.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Thank you to our amazing community for supporting us at the 2022 Fourth of July Parade. Cochran’s Crossing Village Association is very proud of our BEST COMMUNITY ENTRY award.

Race to the Finish at Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas

Don’t miss one of the community’s premier running events, the 17th Annual Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas race. The event is expected to be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Northshore Park, located at 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive in The Woodlands, TX 77381.

The event offers a 10-mile race, the 3.1 Armadillo Run (5K) and the

One 4 Texas Kids’ Fun Run (1 mile).

Early registration for the race is strongly encouraged, as openings for the event will fill quickly. The number of participants in all three races is capped to ensure runner comfort and safety. Race Day registration will not be available.

The race culminates with a Texassized post-race party featuring great

By Angela Ellis

food, beverages and live music by the Brandon McDermott Band.

Volunteer opportunities are still available. Sign up today at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/volunteer.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/10fortexas or email races@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Vote for The Woodlands to Perk

Your Park

The Woodlands Township has an opportunity to receive financial support in constructing a dual-purpose bird blind through the Perk Your Park Contest by Niagara Water. The three winning parks will receive $75,000. Voting online takes only a moment and can be done at https://uqr.to/GeorgeMitchell. If awarded funding, the new structure will be located at the Creekside West Trailhead of George Mitchell Nature Preserve in The Woodlands. This blind has been selected as one of 10 projects in the 2022 Niagara Perk Your Park Contest from Niagara Bottling through its charitable program, Niagara Cares, and in partnership with National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

$75,000

Residents can vote for the new project once per day until the polls close September 12, 2022. Please encourage your friends, family and fellow residents to vote daily!

EveRY DoG Has Its DaY... on the lake!

By Edward Zimmel

Nocruise around Lake Woodlands is complete without your best friend. In the fall, Riva Row and Lakes Edge Boat Houses are great places to rent a kayak for some time on the lake with your canine companion. Book a unique experience with your pup that you will not soon forget.

Single kayaks offer room for most breeds and sizes to accompany a single rider comfortably. Your dog can ride between you and another human friend on one of our tandem kayaks. Dogs are not permitted on swan boats, paddle boards or water bikes.

Is your dog inexperienced on the water? Are you just not sure how they will react? If you have an extremely timid pup, or a larger breed, a couple of canoestyle boats are available. Some dogs may

prefer these boats since they can hide in the bottom and feel more protected. While life jackets are mandatory for humans, your canine pal gets to choose their adventure. We can provide you with a pet life jacket in just about any dog size. Both boat houses stock life jackets for dogs up to 100 pounds. Even the most mild-mannered, introverted pup is sure to delight at the sights and sounds of Lake Woodlands and The Woodlands Waterway. To make a reservation and explore our various watercraft options, please visit www.rivarowboathouse.com.

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

Lakes Edge Boat House

1970 Hughes Landing Blvd. The Woodlands, 281-210-2065

Friday through Sunday:

9 a.m. to Sunset

Closed Monday through Thursday

Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, 281-210-3965

Thursday through Monday:

9 a.m. to Sunset

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

Kayak Daily Rental Rates

Single $20 for first hour

Tandem $25 for first hour

Lifejackets and paddles are included in all rentals. All vessels are $5 for each additional hour when additional hours are purchased prior to your adventure. Late returns will be charged the full rate for additional time. Waivers must be signed and on file for all watercraft occupants (including pets).

Fall Maintenance Checklist

Here are some quick tips to help you keep your home and landscape in shape.

Mow and edge the lawn.

Edge, weed and mulch all landscape beds.

Repair and replace broken fences.*

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

Repair and repaint damaged or faded siding.*

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

Remove all loose trash, debris and yard waste from the property. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment and click “Recycling and Solid Waste” for information about trash and yard trimming pick-up. Ensure trash and recycling carts are stored out of view.**

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

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

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

By Megan McNairn

Grow Your Own Mosquitoes: Just Add Water!

Is the street wet when your sprinklers run? That extra water isn’t just going down the storm drain...it’s ruining your

next barbecue.

Cooler in summer and warmer in winter, storm sewers provide a climatecontrolled environment for mosquitoes. When irrigation runoff keeps the system wet - 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. While the last thing we need are more annoying mosquitoes, 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, organisms that provide important natural control of mosquitoes.

Keep yard trimmings from feeding mosquitoes by bagging them for weekly curbside pick-up or composting them in your yard. Need help keeping water on your lawn and out of the storm sewer? Visit www.woodlandswater.org and request a free inspection of your irrigation system through the W.I.S.E. Guys program. While you’re there, check out the “Ask an Irrigator” section for resources on the cycle and soak method, how to tune up your system and how to install drip irrigation, all of which will help reduce wasted water on the lawn.

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

Standing water in ditches and drains makes for a prime mosquito breeding spot. Help to stop mosquitoes from proliferating by bagging your yard trimmings or turning it into compost.

Photos by Megan McNairn

A Fall for All

By Pamela Woods

Meet some new friends, spend more time with family, learn something new or do something you love at one of the recreation programs and events offered through The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department.

Stay Active

Stay active by getting a fitness room membership at one of our recreation centers or by participating in an athletic program. Sports leagues, tennis, pickleball, tai chi, yoga and dance instruction are some of the programs offered.

Consider competing in the Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas races on Saturday, October 8, 2022. New this year, the Township invites you to the first-ever Lazy River 5K Run/Walk at The Rob Fleming Aquatic Center on Saturday, September 10, 2022.

Be Adventurous

Experience kayaking in the air, walking on tightropes and swinging on platforms at Texas TreeVentures, your local aerial adventure course! Night glow climbs and sunset climbs are available to book this fall. Please visit www.texastreeventures.com for more information.

Get out on Lake Woodlands by way of a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, swan boat or water bike. Riva Row Boat House is also offering Starlight Swan Rides, Moon Rides and Painting on the Lake this fall. Please visit www.rivarowboathouse.com to book a watercraft or register for a program.

Spooky Fun

Bring your little ghouls and goblins to the Trick or Treat Trail or Monster Mash for some family fun. Both events feature candy, costume contests, fun and games.

New this year, wear your costume and enjoy a fun evening running along the waterway at the Glow and Go 5K. This is a chip-timed 5K race. Not scary enough? Take in the terrors of The Haunting at Bear Branch Park. Each year, a haunted trail is custom-designed and built for themed thrills and chills. This event is produced by Township recreation staff and supported by hundreds of local

volunteer groups. The Haunted Trail has been a staple program for almost 20 years. This event is recommended for ages 9 and up.

'Tis the Season

The Woodlands Ice Rink opens Friday, November 18, 2022. The annual Lighting of the Doves Festival kicks off the holiday season on Saturday, November 19, 2022, at Town Green Park.

Keep the fun going at one of our family events including Flashlight Candy Cane Hunts, Let It Snow BINGO, Milk and Cookies with Santa, and Elves and Arrows. Holiday programs are held at the Township recreation centers and local parks.

Don’t forget to keep your kids entertained at the holiday session of Sunny Dayz Camp, which includes theme days, trips, guests and games. Keep the kids busy and minimize screen time during school breaks by signing up for

Photo by Mauricio Ramirez

Photo by Syed Abbas, Token Photography

Photo by Mauricio Ramirez

Photo by Baze Gierisch  Photo by Race Shots

Photo by Erica Flocke

Photo by Derrick Bryant

A Plethora of Options

Toddler activities, youth sport instruction, outdoor scavenger hunts, scout badges, dance instruction, STEAM programs, swim lessons and clinics via heated pools and environmental seminars are just some of the other offerings available this fall.

Want to see something else offered? Contact a Township staff member at the recreation centers to submit your ideas.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Don’t Delay, Sign Up Today!

Some programs and events require pre-registration; please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide to view all programs and event details and to register. Stay up to date on program additions or changes by following on Facebook (www.facebooks. com/townshipparksandrec) and Instagram (@townshipparksandrec).

ABRIGHTIDEA

Recycle Light Bulbs and More at the 3R Recycling Drive-Thru

Celebrate America Recycles Day with The Woodlands

By Zoe Killian

Township at the 3R Recycling Drive-Thru on Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 9 a.m. to noon, at The Woodlands High School Parking Lot, 6101 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381. Residents are invited to gather the listed items below and bring them for this free, one-day recycling event. Pulling through the drive-thru is easy. Bag or box like items together and place items in your trunk or back seat for volunteers to remove.

This year’s Village Recycling Challenge items are incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) and LED light bulbs. Please note, no tube lights over four feet will be accepted. Light bulbs must be intact, not broken. This friendly competition awards funds for scholarships to villages with the highest participation; awards are donated by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. Please place bulbs in a separate box and label with your village name or tell the volunteer who collects the items from your vehicle.

Please bring only these items to the 3R Recycling Drive-thru:     Services are for residents only; please bring proof of address. No businesses’ items will be accepted.

• Batteries: Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D and 9V only

• Block Styrofoam: No food containers or cups

• Disposable Razors and packaging

• Eyeglasses, sunglasses and cases

• Lightbulbs: Incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) and LED only. All bulbs must be intact, not broken. No tube lights over four feet will be accepted.

• Oral Care Products: Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers

• Plastic Bags and Film: Any plastic film that is clean, dry and stretches

• Small Electronics: One file box or paper shopping bag is allowed per vehicle containing laptops, tablets, cell phones and cords only. No TVs or monitors will be accepted. Proof of residency in The Woodlands (driver’s license or utility bill) is required.

• Snack and Drink Pouches: Any brand that comes with a straw or lid

• Textiles: Used clothing, shoes, linens, fabric scrap in any condition

• Secure Document Shredding: Donate five cans of food or $5 per box suggested.

Most items can be recycled year-round locally. Check out the Recycle More Guide at www.thewoodlandtownship-tx.gov/recyclemore for a list of accepted items and locations.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/3Rdrivethru. For questions about the event, please contact the Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

Photo by Derrick Bryant

Photo by Derrick Bryant

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It’s not too late to take the bus to the Energy Corridor Township Transit, Energy Corridor District Continue Pilot Commuter Bus Service Through End of Year

TheWoodlands Township, in collaboration with The Energy Corridor District, is continuing its pilot commuter bus service that initially launched on January 4, 2022. The service departs from Sawdust Park and Ride and serves multiple stops along the Energy Corridor including Energy Center 1 & 2, Dairy Ashford at Shell Main Entrance, Eldridge at Energy Center 4 Drive (ConocoPhillips/ McDermott), Memorial, Westlake at Gracie (BP #1), and Grisby at Helios (BP #2).

Although ridership has not met its initial projections, the Township plans to continue the service through the end of the year in anticipation of ridership increasing. The service is offered Monday through Friday. The complete schedule and route map can be found online at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/parkandride.

Park and Ride tickets are available at a cost of $13 round-trip and must be purchased in advance for this service as drivers do not accept cash. Tickets may be purchased through The Woodlands Express Mobile Ticketing app or at any of the Park and Ride terminals. For

more information on how to download and use the mobile ticketing app, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/1453/Mobile-Ticketing. Buses are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and only stop at designated locations.

Funding for the new service is provided by The Woodlands Township’s receipt of a Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant from

the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC). The grant comprises 80 percent of the funding, with the Township and the Energy Corridor District entering into a local share funding partnership for the remaining 20 percent. For more information about Township Transit, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ transportation.

submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2022. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

The Woodlands Township, in collaboration with The Energy Corridor District, is continuing its pilot commuter bus service.

Award-Winning Lifeguards

The Woodlands Township lifeguards recently took first place in the Texas State Lifeguard Championship, hosted by the Texas Public Pool Council in Brenham, TX. The team’s victory marks the seventh time a Township delegation has won the title. The first-place team comprised Township lifeguards Nate Provost, Richard Monks, Griffin Keene and Allison Sharer. Aquatics Superintendent Marty Mulgrew and Aquatics Supervisor Cynthia Roberts manage the Township lifeguards and coordinate their extensive training each summer.

The competition tested lifeguards’ skills in CPR/First Aid, Water Surveillance and Rescue and Spinal Management. Only the top four teams from regional competitions such as the North Texas Guard Games, Central Texas Lifeguard Competition and the Gulf Coast Guard Games qualified to compete. Prior to taking the first-place win, The Woodlands Township lifeguard teams (pictured above) brought home numerous awards in the regional competitions. The Woodlands Township lifeguard competition teams included

Griffin Keene, Richard Monks, Nathan Provost, Allison Sharer, Alex Pickett, Tomas Rincon, Ashley Sharer, Emilia Villela, Tristan Alvarez, Addison Budsberg, Andrew Burchfield, John Frederick, Chase Henderson, Brynn Johnson, Sam Kosieja, Eamon Mathews, Merritt Rice, Kris Schneider, Laneya Stevenson, Alina Torres, Ryan Tresaugue, Jackson Wenzel, Rylee Windham, Alexander Winters, Zachary Jilg, Nicholas Tegel, Ryan Katri and Drew Fenner.

Photo by Cynthia Roberts

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