October 2014

The mosT aggressive TreaTmenT for The mosT aggressive breasT cancer. ThaT’s The difference beTween pracTicing medicine

and leading iT.

At Houston Methodist, we provide the only program in Texas dedicated to treating triple negative breast cancer, the most deadly form of the disease. By studying the DNA of each patient’s tumor, we are able to pinpoint the genetic mutation causing the cancer to grow, to then match it with the most effective drug available. Giving triple negative breast cancer patients not just a personalized treatment plan, but the hope for recovery.

Houston Methodist is coming to The Woodlands in late 2015. To learn more, visit houstonmethodist.org or call 713.790.3333

On the Cover

While pine trees don’t don bright colors in the fall, The Woodlands has other trees that do turn lovely shades of yellow, orange and red. These trees at Creekwood Park are a great example of bright, colorful fall foliage. Cover photo by Susan Schneider

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

Recreation Center

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

Emergency 911

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

the woodlands township

Board Message

Township Board Reduces Tax Rate

For the fifth consecutive year, homeowners in The Woodlands will see lower property taxes. After a series of budget planning workshops, the Township Board of Directors unanimously approved the adoption of the 2015 budget and set the 2014 property tax rate at 25 cents per $100 of taxable property value. This is a 15 percent reduction of 4.4 cents from the current rate of 29.4 cents.

The new budget also includes the enhancement of some services, including the addition of 11 new personnel to the law enforcement agencies in Montgomery and Harris counties, increased streetscape and community maintenance, funding for transit services and more.

For more information on The Woodlands Township budget, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. You can also get current updates on Board activity by subscribing to the Talk of the Township, a free newsletter delivered right to your inbox every week. Subscribe at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme.

What a great way to celebrate The Woodlands’ 40th Anniversary and all of its successes with a lower tax rate!

Gordy Bunch

Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass

Position No. 2 Director

Jeff Long Position No. 3 Director

John McMullan Position No. 5 Director

Bruce Tough

Position No. 7 Chairman

Peggy S. Hausman

Position No. 6 Vice Chairman

Ed Robb Position No. 4 Secretary

Howdy partner.

We’re right here in The Woodlands. Get nationally ranked care at Texas Children’s Health Center, Texas Children’s Pediatrics and St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital.

Our Health Centers and Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices offer convenient access to expert pediatricians, subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic ser vices. We also partner with St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to offer newborn care from Texas Children’s specialists.

So when your child needs to see a doctor, come right over. We’re right here in The Woodlands, ready to lend a helping hand.

For maps and information, visit texaschildrens .org/woodlands .

Texas Children’s Health Center – The Woodlands

17198 St. Luke’s Way, Suite 300

The Woodlands, TX 77384 936-321-0808

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP Board of Directors Election

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Candidates

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2014 election, designated as positions 1, 2, 3, 4. Ballot positions for candidates who have filed are as follows:

Position 1: Gordy Bunch

Position 2: Ron Mullins and Mike Bass

Position 3: Ryan Elkins, Jeff Long and David Cassidy

Position 4: Jim Meszaros, Sharon Lavery, Ed Robb and Walter Boyd

Each office carries a two-year term, and all four positions are elected at large by voters in The Woodlands Township in both Montgomery County and Harris County.

Relevant Dates*

October 6, 2014 Last Day to Register to Vote

October 20, 2014 First Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

October 24, 2014 Last Day to Apply for Ballot by Mail (received, not postmarked; does not apply to federal postcard applications; personally delivered ballots must be received no later than October 20, 2014)

October 31, 2014 Last Day of Early Voting by Personal Appearance

November 4, 2014 Election Day

More information is available on the Township’s website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/elections.

* The Texas Secretary of State is the chief election officer of the State of Texas and provides the uniform election calendar. Interested persons are encouraged to visit the Secretary of State’s Election Division website at www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml or contact the Secretary of State’s Election Division by telephone at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683) for further information regarding the state’s election laws.

FOR WALKING SAFETY

Kids under age 10 should never walk or bike alone. Neighbors can take turns walking a group of kids to and from school. Make sure every child knows every adult in the group. Adults walking with children can model the follo wing skills:

Stay aware! Avoid distractions.

STOP, LOOK, LISTEN at every edge or curb.

Look LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT and go only when there are NO cars.

Cross at crosswalks or corners.

Avoid crossing between parked cars and in the middle of the block.

Watch for cars pulling in and out of driveways and neighborhoods.

When crossing streets, teach kids to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them at corners and crosswalks.

During Walk Month, staff from The Woodlands Township, along with Bike The Woodlands Coalition, Conroe ISD Police and Harris County Precinct 4 Constables Office will partner to rekindle the spirit of walking to school.

Join them and discover that there is more than one way to get to school! Walk to School Day is a vehicle for launching a year-round Safe Routes to School program (www.saferoutesinfo.org) which offers new tools for your school transportation toolbox like facilitating neighborhood walk groups and safety posts.

Fri. Oct. 3, 2014

Tue. Oct. 7, 2014

Wed. Oct. 8, 2014

Thu. Oct. 9, 2014

Thu. Oct. 9, 2014

Fri. Oct. 10, 2014

Fri. Oct. 10, 2014

Thu. Oct. 16, 2014

Fri. Oct. 17, 2014

Wed. Oct. 22, 2014

Thu. Oct. 23, 2014

Fri.

According to www.walkbiketoschool. org, despite the many advantages, typically fewer than 25 percent of students are regular walkers, even among kids living within a mile of their school.

Get started by joining your school’s event. Twelve elementary schools in The Woodlands will observe International Walk to School month with officially scheduled walk days. For more information, please call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281.210.3800, or visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/walktoschool.

By Kathie Gilmore Herrick

Even the Glen Loch Gator enjoys walking to school!

Photo by Robyn Schapiro

Photo by Lucinda Valdes

Conroe Independent School District Corporal Pat Jolly and his dog Bronco like to make sure children are safe while walking to school.

PARTY AND EVENT RENTALS

ThinkThe Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department for your next birthday party, board meeting, church event, company picnic, family reunion, retirement party, sporting event, team building, wedding, baby shower, or any other event you want to be special.

Rent a Room at the Recreation Center

• Live Oak Room: $20/hour resident, $30/hour non-resident, max capacity of 70 people

• Magnolia Room: $10/hour resident, $20/hour non-resident, max capacity of 45 people

• Mulberry or Sycamore Room: $10/hour resident, $20/hour non-resident, max capacity of 15 people

• Gymnasium: $35/hour resident, $45/hour non-resident

• Recreation Center: $150/hour resident, $200/hour non-resident

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department has more than 120 beautiful parks with fabulous amenities, a centrally located recreation center and 14 state-of-the-art aquatic facilities for you to host your next party or event.

Rent a Pavilion All pavilion rentals occur in four-hour blocks.

• Small Pavilions without restrooms: $25/resident, $50/non-resident

• Medium Pavilions with restrooms: $35/resident, $70/non-resident

• Large Pavilions with restrooms: $50/resident, $100/non-resident

Rent a Field or Court Additional fees for lighting

• Tennis Courts: $8 per hour per court/resident, $10 per hour per court/non-resident

• Outdoor Basketball Courts: $8 per hour per court/resident, $10 per hour per court/non-resident

• Softball/Baseball Fields: $15 per hour per court/resident, $30 per hour per court/non-resident

• Multi-purpose Fields: $15 per hour per court/resident, $30 per hour per court/non-resident

Need help planning that extra special birthday party for your kiddo?

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department can help!

The Woodlands Township has a variety of party packages to choose from that are sure to be a hit. For additional information or to rent a facility, please contact

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3950 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/parksandrecreation!

A message from The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department

Pavilion in Wendtwoods Park in the Village of Creekside Park

Bear Branch Pool in Village of Cochran’s Crossing

Inside the Recreation Center, rent a convenient room or the large gymnasium.

NATURE EVENTS

By Lucinda Valdes

MOTHS: The Good, Bad and Ugly

Moths do not have the same status as birds or butterflies, according to Stuart Marcus with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The refuge manager hopes to change perceptions at Moths of Southeast Texas: the Good, Bad and Ugly, a free Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture on Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 7:30 p.m. at McCullough Junior High School at 3800 South Panther Creek Drive.

Often referred to as butterflies of the night, moths, Mr. Marcus says, are “much more beautiful, intricate and

strange than butterflies.” The range of different shapes and colors is phenomenal.

Explore the world of moths when Mr. Marcus reveals their intriguing behaviors and role in nature. Learn about daytime flying moths and the difference between moths and butterflies.

A free program of The Woodlands Township, Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture series is sponsored by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Waste Management and Hilton Garden Inn. For more information, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/wildllife.

It’s All About Trees

TheWoodlands Township is taking reservations for It’s All About Trees, a free Gardening 102 seminar scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2014, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard.

Healthy trees are an asset to the landscape, increasing property values as well as providing oxygen, cooling shade, beauty and a peaceful environment.

John Warner, urban forester, and Jason McKenzie, native plant expert, will team up to present a homeowner’s guide to tree care, covering tree selection, planting, maintenance tips and pruning techniques.

From the essentials of watering and proper mulching to the tough questions of managing tree pests and disease, Mr. Warner with the Texas Forest Service will cover the basics of keeping trees alive and healthy. Whether doing it yourself or hiring it out, learn when and how to prune trees for shape, health and safety.

Discover stellar trees for urban landscapes. Mr. McKenzie will highlight trees for spring and fall color, to restore the forest, to create a focal

point in the landscape and for difficult situations. Sun, shade, dry or boggy, he has a recommendation for every landscape challenge.

Designed to appeal to both novice and seasoned gardeners, Gardening 102 seminars go beyond basics, revealing techniques for creating landscapes that are water-wise, easy-care and attractive.

To reserve a spot for It’s All About Trees, register online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ gardeningevents. The class will be held at The Woodlands Township Town Hall Board Chambers, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. For more information, please call Environmental Services at 281-210-3800.

Photo by Lucinda Valdes

A landscaper and former nursery owner, Jason McKenzie is a recognized expert on woody species, who lectures extensively to garden clubs, nature groups and professional organizations.

John Warner, Urban District Forester with Texas A&M Forestry Service, is also a certified arborist with a passion for native trees. He shares how to incorporate and protect trees in the landscape.

Photo courtesy of the Texas Forest Service

During A Moth’s Night Out, Stuart Marcus documents and photographs moths attracted to a black light against white bed sheets.

Photo courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.

Hummingbird Moth

Hyles lineata White-lined Sphinx Moth

october

Wednesday, October 1

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, October 2

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, October 3

Walk to School (October 3 – 24)

See page 8 for more information.

Gorilla Hole Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders; $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, October 4

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 2230 Buckthorne Place 8 a.m. to noon www.grogansmillvillage.com

Free Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

10 to 11 a.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3800.

Creekside Campout (October 4-5)

Rob Fleming Park

Noon Saturday to 9 a.m. Sunday

For more information, call 281-210-3950.

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

For more information, please call 281-363-2447.

Sunday, October 5

Free Concert in the Park & Family Fun Challenge Nightbird (Stevie Nicks Tribute Band) and 2nd Annual Make Your Own Scarecrow Competition Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 281-210-3950

Monday, October 6

Last Day to Register to Vote in November 2014 Election

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Tuesday, October 7

National Night Out Neighborhood Parties

5:30 to 8 p.m.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/nationalnightout

Heartsaver CPR/AED Class Emergency Training Center 6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Thursday, October 9

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Ad Hoc Transportation Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 2 p.m. 281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture

Moths of Southeast Texas:

the Good, Bad and Ugly

McCullough Junior High School

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, October 10

Kid’s Night Out!

Recreation Center

6 to 10 p.m.

281-210-3950

Ages 4-10, $30 per child with sibling discount

Saturday, October 11

One 4 Texas Kids’ Fun Run Race begins in Market Street

7 a.m.

281-210-3800

Memorial Hermann 10 For Texas 10-mile Race

Race begins in Market Street

7:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/races

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

2230 Buckthorne Place

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR/AED Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Live at Night

Waterway Square

6 to 8 p.m.

281-363-2447.

Sunday, October 12

Free Concert in the Park and Jack-O-Lantern Challenge

Easy Money Band (Rock-n-Roll)

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Monday, October 13

Columbus Day

Tuesday, October 14

Healthcare Provider CPR/AED Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, October 15

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, October 16

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, October 17

The Fangtastic Family Carnival

The Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive

4 to 8 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

The Haunting at Bear Branch Park

Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive

8 to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

Saturday, October 18

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 2230 Buckthorne Place

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR/AED Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

The Haunting at Bear Branch Park

Bear Branch Park 5200 Research Forest Drive

8 to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

Sunday, October 19

The Woodlands 40th Anniversary Celebration Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive 3 to 8 p.m.

281-210-3800

See 40th Anniversary section in this issue, or visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/40.

Monday, October 20

First Day of Early Voting by Appearance –November 2014 Election

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, October 21

Healthcare Provider CPR/AED Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Wednesday, October 22

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, October 24

Last Day for Ballot to arrive by mail – November 2014 Election

The Haunting at Bear Branch Park Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive 8 to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

continued on page 21

No changes in garbage service this month.

REMEMBER The Woodlands Covenants require that trash and recycle carts must be stored out of public view.

Visit Liberty Branch, a neo-traditional neighborhood that recreates the feeling of a small town within the forests of the Village of Creekside Park. Here you’ll find a range of home styles that have the charming curb appeal of early Americana, but with all the 21st Century features you need and want. Tree-lined streets lead to two nostalgic parks, Timber Creek K-6 Elementary School, and the new Creekside Village Green and Village Center, opening later this year. Come tour the new model homes by Coventry Homes, David Weekley Homes, J. Kyle Homes and Palmetto Homes, priced from the $300s - $1 million.

J. Kyle Homes presents The Oak, a 3,000-square-foot, two-story traditional home which offers four bedrooms, upstairs game room, four baths, covered porch, upper foyer, numerous options and a two-car attached garage. This home is priced from $492,990. For more details, visit The Woodlands Information Center today!

Years

On October 19, 2014, The Woodlands will mark 40 years as a community, one of the most successful in the nation.

On October 19, 1974, The Woodlands celebrated its official grand opening, with founder George Mitchell and his “dream team” hopeful that they had created a new hometown that would grow and thrive to become a place where someday thousands would live, work, play and learn.

Today, that vision of a hometown encompasses nearly 110,000 residents, nearly 2,000 businesses, more than 200 miles of hike and bike trails, eight million square feet of shopping, dining and entertainment, numerous private and public schools and a university center, a world-class performing arts center and many other amenities and accomplishments.

Some of the highlights of the last 40 years are listed on the following pages, including major milestones in the history of The Woodlands, as well as

milestones for the governance of The Woodlands.

On October 19, 2014, The Woodlands celebrates its 40th anniversary. Residents are invited to pay tribute to the 40-year history of The Woodlands at Northshore Park for a proclamation, guest speakers, recognition of art contest winners and a variety of other activities dedicated to honoring our fine community.

This celebration will be in conjunction with a Concert in the Park, with activities beginning at 3 p.m. A proclamation will be read by Township Chairman Bruce Tough at 5 p.m., and a variety of events that focus on the history of The Woodlands will be presented along with several musical acts. This event will give residents of all ages the opportunity to come together to pay homage to a great place to live, work, play and learn.

1960s - 1970s

1977

Village of Panther Creek opened.

1964

George Mitchell purchased 50,000 acres from Grogan-Cochran Lumber Company, 2,800 of which became part of The Woodlands, marking the original transaction.

Construction of the first church in The Woodlands began.

1978

Jamail’s, the first supermarket in The Woodlands, opened.

‘64-‘74

More than 300 additional transactions completed in order to assemble the original 17,455 acres; the first school opened (Lamar Elementary); Interfaith was established; The Woodlands Fire Department established.

1974

Grand Opening of The Woodlands.

Village of Grogan’s Mill opened.

1980s

1982

Houston Advanced Research Center announced plans for research campus and its initial building. Research Forest established.

1980s

1983

Investments by all parties in The Woodlands reached the $1 billion milestone.

Village of Cochran’s Crossing opened.

1984

The Tournament Players Course in The Woodlands was announced.

Village of Indian Springs opened.

1985

The Woodlands Hospital (now Memorial-Hermann) opened.

Lake Woodlands was filled with water.

A Tug of War was one of the highlights of “The Last Annual Bottom of the Lake Festival.”

1976

McCullough High School opened.

The first Lighting of the Doves Ceremony, heralding the start of the holiday season, was held in Grogan’s Mill.

1986

Harmony Bridge opened to provide an alternate route into Harris County.

1987

The Hardy Toll Road opened. continued on next page

MAJOR MILESTONES IN THE HISTORY

1990s

1990

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion opened, with Frank Sinatra as the opening act.

The Woodlands population reached 30,000.

The Woodlands Watch wins number one in the nation for its National Night Out program.

1991

The Woodlands Community Association wins Association of the Year from the Community Associations Institute.

1994

Roger Galatas, then President of The Woodlands Development Company, presided over the ribbon-cutting for the new Village of Alden Bridge, named after his hometown in Louisiana.

1994

The Woodlands Mall opened.

Highway 242 opened.

The population of The Woodlands exceeded 40,000.

1995

Montgomery College (now Lone Star CollegeMontgomery) opened.

Jobs in The Woodlands topped 15,000.

1996

The Woodlands High School opened.

Population exceeded 45,000.

The Woodlands Parkway overpass across Grogan’s Mill opened.

Tinseltown Cinema opened.

1997

A partnership of Crescent Real Estate Equities and Morgan Stanley Real Estate Fund II acquired The Woodlands from original and founding owner, Mitchell Energy & Development Corp.

Population exceeded 50,000.

1998

One million square feet of commercial construction underway.

1999

Celebrated The Woodlands 25th anniversary.

The original 25 Hometown Heroes were selected and honored.

The Village of Sterling Ridge opened, named to commemorate The Woodlands 25th Anniversary.

Plans for The Woodlands Waterway unveiled.

2000s

2000

The Village of College Park opened. The Woodlands reached 100 miles of pathways.

2001

Harper’s Landing, a large residential neighborhood in the Village of College Park, opened with a party at the new pool and sprayground.

OF THE WOODLANDS

2000s

2002

The Woodlands Waterway ® opened.

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott and Convention Center opened.

2004 Market Street opened.

2005

The Woodlands College Park High School opened.

The first homes were available for sale in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center, and in Carlton Woods Creekside.

Population of The Woodlands exceeded 80,000.

2007

The Village of Creekside Park opened. Carlton Woods opened.

2009

The new facility for recreational kayaking, Riva Row Park & Boat House, opened on The Woodlands Waterway.

Waterway Square, with its spectacular multiple water features, was officially dedicated in The Woodlands Town Center. This event began the development of The Woodlands Waterway Square District.

Population of The Woodlands exceeded 90,000.

2010s

2011

The Howard Hughes Corporation® acquired the shares of both General Growth Properties and Morgan Stanley Real Estate.

2010s

2011

Population of The Woodlands exceeded 100,000.

2014

The Woodlands celebrates 40th anniversary.

Years

Want to learn more about the history of The Woodlands?

The following resources have historical information about one of the most successful communities in the nation and the world:

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ aboutus/aboutthetownship

www.thewoodlands.com

www.rgiwoodlands.com/history.html

www.cgmf.org

GOVERNANCE MILESTONES

1970s

1974

The Woodlands Community Association formed.

1990s

1992

The Woodlands Association, The Woodlands Commercial Association and The Woodlands Community Service Corporation were created.

The Woodlands Community Association transitioned to resident control.

1993

Creation of Town Center Improvement District (TCID).

1997

Town Center Improvement District received authority to collect hotel occupancy tax.

1990s

1999

Houston and The Woodlands MUDs signed a Moratorium Agreement, which prevented the City of Houston from annexing The Woodlands and prevented The Woodlands from incorporating as a city for at least 12 years.

2000

Community Associations of The Woodlands began to draft a plan to educate community leaders and residents about existing governance as well as options for future community governance.

2002 - 2006

Joint Ad-Hoc Governance Process Committee and later The Woodlands Governance Steering Committee studied and evaluated governance options with resident feedback.

December 7, 2006

Houston Mayor Bill White and Senator Tommy Williams announced Regional Participation Agreement, allowing The Woodlands to determine

2000s

their future as they contribute toward important regional projects.

May 2007

Texas Legislature sets stage for self- governance and provided authority to enter into the Regional Participation Agreements (SB 1012) with the City of Houston and the City of Conroe to establish, with voter approval, a new governance body for The Woodlands (HB 4109).

2007

Community Associations initiated The Woodlands Decides Committee to provide educational information to residents on the upcoming election.

September/October 2007

Regional Participation Agreements (RPAs) with the Cities of Houston and Conroe were executed.

2000s

Memorandum of Understanding with Community Associations executed.

November 6, 2007

Voters in The Woodlands enlarged TCID to include all of The Woodlands, reorganized composition of the Board of Directors to a seven-member resident-elected board and authorized implementation of an ad valorem tax.

TCID changed its name to The Woodlands Township.

November 16, 2007

TCID officially became The Woodlands Township.

Creation of The Woodlands Township Economic Development Zone.

Regional Participation Agreements became effective.

2008

Community Associations and The Woodlands Township unanimously approved the Transition Agreement that outlines the transition of service delivery from the Associations to the Township.

May 10, 2008 Election

Voters elected the first five at-large representatives to The Woodlands Township. Six members of the existing Township board continued in office until May 2010.

2008 – 2009

Associations and Township continued to carry out customary roles and responsibilities.

2009

Township considered budget and capital plan and created Vision 2034 for consolidated Township operations.

Township Board adopted budget and set property tax levy at 32.8 cents per $100 assessed value, replacing the Community Associations assessments.

January 1, 2010

Full integration of transition as the Township assumed full responsibility for Association services.

May 2010 Election

Township board transitioned to fully resident-elected board with seven members.

2013

First time that Township elections are held in November.

2014

Township lowers tax rate for fifth consecutive year, to 25 cents per $100 valuation for the 2014 rate.

Signing of the Transition Agreement

40th Anniversary Celebration

The Woodlands 40th Anniversary Celebration event will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2014, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive. The event will showcase The Woodlands’ 40-year history with interactive timelines, Village Association representation, live music and activities for the whole family. The event will also host a beautiful display of “How do you envision The Woodlands in the next 40 years?” from the Because Art Matters local student art project. The event will conclude with a community sing-a-long of “Happy Birthday” to The Woodlands and a fireworks salute. Parking is available at Aon/Hewitt.

Student Art Project

Anadarko Petroleum Company will sponsor The Woodlands Waterway Arts Council’s 40th Anniversary Student Art Project asking the question, “How do you envision The Woodlands in the next 40 years?” The contest has two categories: Literary Arts (Essay, Poetry and Creative Writing) and Visual Arts (2-D Painting, Drawing and Photography) with cash prizes given to a variety of age groups. The art project is open to all students, kindergarten through 12th grade; private, public and home-schooled in The Woodlands. All art entries will be displayed at the 40th Anniversary Celebration Event on Sunday, October 19, 2014, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Northshore Park. Those interested in participating should visit www.WoodlandsWaterwayArtsCouncil.org.

For more information on the 40th Anniversary of The Woodlands, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/40.

Celebrate the

with a free decal that shows you were part of the 40th Anniversary of The Woodlands, available at the celebration.

Alden Bridge

Happy autumn from Alden Bridge! Are you planning your National Night Out neighborhood parties? Don’t forget that Oct. 7, 2014, from 5:30 to 8 p.m., is the time to “lock your doors, turn on your lights, and go outside and meet your neighbors.” The Woodlands is an even safer and more enjoyable place to live when we all know our neighbors and look out for each other.

Our monthly board/residents meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 14, 2014, at the Township building at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our guest speaker will be Hennie van Rensburg, director of the Township’s Covenant Administration Department. If you live in The Woodlands, chances are you’ve had a question about our covenants. Please join us to meet Hennie and have some of those questions answered.

Boo! When the Halloween decorations start to appear, send your nominations for the “Spookiest House” in Alden Bridge to info@aldenbridge. org. We’ll award the winner a couple of days before Halloween. We have a lot of fun judging this contest and are always amazed at how completely our residents get into the spirit of Halloween!

Our most recent Yard of the Month winner was on Willow Point Place in Millport. Congratulations to all of this year’s winners on their hard work! That program has been put to bed until next May, when we’ll begin awarding again. Thanks to the residents who nominated the beautiful yards that we’ve been proud to honor and to our sponsors for this program, Chick-fil-A and the Pavilion.

Our Township Board of Directors election is coming up on November 4, 2014, where we’ll elect four at-large Directors. Don’t forget to take advantage of early voting from October 20 through October 31, 2014.

Please visit our website, www.aldenbridge.org, to keep up with the latest news of our village or like us on Facebook. We also continue to welcome additions to our electronic mailing list for village news. Please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org. Your address will not be shared and will be used only to distribute village news. Have a safe month and a very happy Halloween!

Submitted by Darla D.

Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

The Cochran’s Crossing Fall Festival has been a fall celebration at Shadowbend Park for many years in The Woodlands. As in the past, the festival is free for all who attend, and this year the festival will be a significant part of The Woodlands 40th Anniversary. It will be held on October 19, 2014, from 1 to 4 p.m. and there will again be games for kids to play. Also part of the fun will be bounce houses, slides and pony rides.

Once again, the Kroger Signature Store at Cochran’s Crossing Shopping Center will be the major sponsor, and they will provide hot dogs and water. PhysiciansER at Research Forest and Gosling will also be back to provide first aid services in case there are any bumps or bruises. It is also anticipated that the Rotary Interact Clubs from area high schools will provide a number of volunteers for the festival.

In addition to providing an opportunity for some great outdoor fun in a park that has been renovated with recommendations from

the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association, The Woodlands has also benefitted from the leadership the association has provided in expressing the concern of residents for the overall appearance and maintenance of The Woodlands. Village Association board member Mark Gjovik clearly and successfully documented the need to allocate an increased portion of the Township’s budget to allow more reforestation and attention to medians as well as an increase in the caretaking of additional cul-de-sacs.

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association continues to be an excellent way for Cochran’s Crossing residents to get their concerns heard and addressed. The meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Township meeting rooms.

Another way to keep up with activities in The Woodlands in general, and particularly in the Cochran’s Crossing area, is to join us on Facebook or visit our website.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

Happy fall to all of our residents! We hope all of our students of The Woodlands are studying hard and learning great things.

Please mark your calendars for October 7, 2014, for National Night Out. This is an annual event that gives residents the opportunity of meeting and greeting neighbors, sharing information with one another, and learning safety tips. College Park will again have the neighborhood

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

main event at Harper’s Landing Park. Please refer to our website for details –it’s usually from 6 to 8 p.m.

College Park’s annual October Spooktacular will be on October 25, 2014, for our families to enjoy Halloween and fall goodies. There is always a costume contest with prizes for the top three best costumes. Please enjoy the festivities that help us celebrate the fall with our village!

Halloween is always so much fun, but we have to be very careful with our children. Please accompany your children on the streets when they are trick or treating.

From our College Park board, we would enjoy having residents of our village attend our monthly meeting. It is always the third Monday of the month at The Woodlands Township Office. Please refer to our website for any details.

In closing, enjoy our wonderful fall weather that brings us into the holiday season. The Woodlands amenities are amazing. Get out and enjoy Market Street, The Waterway, and let’s all get in the festive mood!

Submitted by

Johanne Stanley

Creekside Park

As we head into fall, Creekside Park is happy to be back in the pages of our community magazine. We’ve had a great spring and summer, so before we move into what we’re planning for the future, let’s get caught up on what you’ve missed so far in 2014.

Our first major village activity of 2014 was our Picnic and Pool Party on May 18, 2014, at the Wendtwoods Park pool. Weather can be iffy in mid-May, but it turned out to be just perfect for our poolside bash. More than 250 residents of all ages came out to swim, play games, listen to music from a DJ, and share hotdogs, shaved ice and sodas by the pool.

Our next event was truly an amazing feat of neighborly organization, as we decided at the last minute to enter

The Woodlands July Fourth parade! Despite the scramble, our residents stepped up not only to walk in the parade but to ride on a flatbed trailer float, hand out candy and carry a banner to demonstrate our village’s patriotic spirit.

If you haven’t been coming to the Village Association meetings, you’ve missed out on some of the best information about some burning issues: mobility and transportation (especially the Kuykendahl and Gosling bridges) and news about the restaurants and businesses that will soon be in our neighborhood.

Our neighborhoods are planning for their National Night Out celebrations, where we’ll all meet with our neighbors and talk about safe neighborhoods on the evening of October 7, 2014.

To avoid the conflict with those parties, the Creekside Park Village Association will meet on October 6, 2014, at 7 p.m. at the YMCA on Creekside Forest Drive. Last year, Creekside Park had the most Night Out parties in The Woodlands, so let’s try to do it again in 2014.

Also, we’re moving our extremely successful and fun Annual Chili Cookoff event from December to January to avoid conflicts with the holiday season. This gives everyone an extra month to find just the right recipe to win the coveted People’s Choice award!

Submitted by Stephanie Weiss

Grogan’s Mill

The Grogan’s Mill Yard of the Month winners for August are Phil and Tina Ulrich of Doe Run. The Ulrich’s first moved to The Woodlands in 1994, and although they enjoyed their time here, moved away around 2004. They ultimately returned in 2008 when Phil retired. Phil acknowledges that his hobby is taking care of their beautifully landscaped front and back yards.

continued on page 20

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE

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

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

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

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

COLLEGE PARK

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

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

CREEKSIDE PARK

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

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

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

GROGAN’S MILL

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

Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

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

INDIAN SPRINGS

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

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

PANTHER CREEK

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

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

STERLING RIDGE

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

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

With additional late summer rains and progressively cooler weather, the rewards are continuing to show up at the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market. Plentiful early fall fruits and vegetables are available, all grown within a 100-mile radius. The Market’s second annual Halloween Celebration is planned for Saturday, October 25, 2014. Check our website or newsletter for specifics about this year’s event. If you don’t receive our weekly Farmer’s Market e-blast, sign up on our website (www.grogansmillvillage.com) or our Facebook page.

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association welcomes Tom Chumbley to our Board of Directors. Tom and his family live on Box Oak. As of September, the association still has one open position on its Board of Directors. If you are interested in applying, please contact any board member (listed in our website at www.grogansmillvillage.com).

The association had a blast hosting a free Splash Party at the Sawmill Park Pool on Sunday, August 17, 2014. It was an overwhelming success with more than 350 children, parents, relatives, and friends attending. The hot dogs and snow cones were a big hit as were the many games, contests, and, of course, the cooling dips in the swimming and toddlers’ pools. It was a great opportunity for people to meet Board members and talk about issues of interest to Grogan’s Mill residents. Special thanks to The Township’s Grogan’s Mill liaison, Doris Provencio, for helping to organize and supervise many of the activities enjoyed by the children…and the adults!

at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ nationalnightout. This is a fun way to meet new neighbors and revisit with old friends while promoting safety and sharing valuable community resource information.

Saturday, November 1, 2014, is the date of the Fall Flea Market this year. So you have plenty of time to prepare as a seller or as a buyer and just in time for Christmas shopping.

This Woodlands tradition brings together your neighbors and vendors from across Texas to provide you a one-morning (7 to 10 a.m.) extravaganza of bargains. From antiques to household items, from clothes to cars, from crafts and art objects to furniture, it’s all here. Check it out at www.WoodlandsFleaMarket.org.

“Where

Approximately 75 people showed up on August 8 for Good Neighbor Day at Central Fire Station #1 on Grogan’s Mill Road. Several Grogan’s Mill Directors participated.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Panther Creek

Join your neighbors for the 31st Annual National Night Out on October 7, 2014. Your Neighborhood Watch Coordinator will be preparing for your party. Get more information

This year will be the second time that members of The Woodlands Township will be up for election in November, on Tuesday, November 4, 2014. Nearly a dozen candidates will be presenting themselves at the Panther Creek Village Association meetings as they seek your vote for four board positions. Come see who they are and bring your questions. The meetings are informal and allow you a real chance to learn and to be heard.

On August 9, 2014, Panther Creek residents gathered to hop onto the luxury coach that transported them to watch the Astros play some team from North Texas. If you missed this fun event look for it again next year about the same time.

Your Panther Creek Village Association meets the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township building, just off New Trails Drive, at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., at 7 p.m. All residents are welcome. If you moved into The Woodlands to be part of a “Real Hometown,” your village association is one of the best places to get involved without getting overloaded. Show up, share your ideas and issues, and get help in solving neighborhood problems. Visit us anytime at www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org and find out who your area representatives are. They are here to serve you.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Yard of the Month Winners Phil and Tina Ulrich

Grogan’s Mill Good Neighbor Day, pictured left to right are Directors Sara Bissig, Bruce Cunningham, Dana Denton and Pat Goodpastor, along with dog Relay of The Woodlands Fire Department.

CALENDAR continued

Saturday, October 25

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 2230 Buckthorne Place

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com.

Gardening 102 Free Seminar

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m. to noon

Please call 281-210-3800 for reservations.

Taste of the Village

Indian Springs Village Shopping Center

Noon to 4 p.m.

The Haunting at Bear Branch Park Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive

8 to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

Sunday, October 26

Trick or Treat Trail

Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway®

3 to 6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, October 27

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Tuesday, October 28

Healthcare Provider CPR/AED Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Friday, October 31

Halloween

Last Day of Early Voting –November 2014 Election

The Haunting at Bear Branch Park Bear Branch Park

5200 Research Forest Drive

8 to 10 p.m.

For more information, call 281-210-3950, or see page 26.

2014 FALL CONCERT SERIES

Sundays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Northshore Park

All concerts are free and held at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, 77381. Enjoy an evening of music in one of the The Woodlands’ premier parks! Blankets, lawn chairs, coolers and pets are permitted. Admission is free.

October 5

Nightbird (Stevie Nicks Tribute Band)

October 12

Easy Money Band (Rock-n-Roll)

October 19

Special concert held in conjunction with The Woodlands 40th Anniversary Celebration

Presented by

Thank you

to The Woodlands Township’s National Night Out Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Target Silver Rock H-E-B

Silver Sponsors ADT

First Choice Emergency Room

Bronze Sponsors

Chik-fil-A

Modern American Warrior Munday Chevrolet

Aon Hewitt

Kona Ice

Keller Williams Physicians ER

Urgent Care for Kids

Natural Pawz

Gymboree

Home Depot

Memorial Hermann State Farm Insurance

Additional Sponsors:

Americas Anthropologie

Aqua Car Wash & Express Lube

Bed, Bath & Beyond

Boardwalk at Town Center

Brother’s Pizza

CenterPoint Energy

Chick-fil-A The Woodlands

Dillards

Domino’s Pizza

Dr. Crystal Mark Chiropractor

Entergy

European Wax Center

Grade Power Learning

Great Clips

Honor Trophies and Laser Awards

Kendra Scott Market Street

M Crowd Restaurant Group

Papa John’s Pizza

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille

Pizza Tonight

Quiznos Subs Ragin Cajun

Regis Salon

Sweet Tomatoes Restaurants

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

The Woodlands Children’s Museum

The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center

Walking Tots

Willie’s Grill and Icehouse

Wonderwild Indoor Party Playground

VOTE

In The Statewide General Election

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Thisyear’s ballot will include one proposed amendment to the Texas Constitution, named Proposition 1. The ballot proposal reads, “The constitutional amendment providing for the use and dedication of certain money transferred to the state highway fund to assist in the completion of transportation construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation projects, not to include toll roads.”

According to the Texas House of Representatives House Research Organization, “In the November 4, 2014, general election, Texas voters will be asked to approve or reject an amendment to the Texas Constitution to dedicate certain funds to transportation. The proposed amendment would direct the comptroller to allocate to the State Highway Fund one-half of the amount of general revenue derived from oil and gas production taxes that currently is transferred to the rainy day fund. Revenue transferred in this way could be used only for constructing, maintaining, and acquiring rights of way for public roadways other than toll roads.”

For a full list of election items on the ballot, you may view a sample ballot for the county in which you reside at www.MontgomeryVotes.org or www.HarrisVotes.org, or visit the Secretary of State’s voter site at www.VoteTexas.gov/voting/what.

COLLECT CAPS & CORKS

AND SAVE THE DATE FOR THE

Saturday, November 15, 2014

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

8203 Millennium Forest Dr.

Recycle Caps and Corks

• Caps: threaded, rigid plastic, such as caps from shampoo, detergent, water, soda, juice and other bottles; flip-top caps from tubes and bottles; and large lids from peanut butter and other jars. No liners.

• Corks: natural and synthetic corks from bottles and jars.

Plus! One Day Only!

Recycle single-use alkaline batteries

• AA, AAA, C, D and 9V ONLY

• NO rechargeables, NO lead-acid

• Producer responsibility is coming from the Corporation for Battery Recycling (CBR) www.recyclebattery.org

Buy Recycled Boutique and Brown Bag Boutique

• Trunk show of unique products made from glass, plastic, paper, metal and other recycled materials.

Shred Day

• Secure, on-site shredding of personal documents to benefit Interfaith Food Pantry.

• Five canned goods or $5 for each bank box.

And More!

A Texas/America Recycles Day Event www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov 281-210-3800

Photo by Lynne Aldrich

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

• www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ emergency

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

• Sign up for WoodlandsAlert at www.woodlandsalert.org

• Hurricane preparedness: www.ready.gov

• Montgomery County emergency information: www.mctxoem.org

• Harris County emergency information: www.readyharris.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Harris County www.911.org or call 832-237-9911

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

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KITS

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

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

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

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

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help.

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

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

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

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

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

• Important family documents.

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

Family Carnival and Bear Branch Haunting

This year the Township will host The Fangtastic Family Carnival from 4 to 8 p.m. on October 17 at Rob Fleming Park, 6055 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, 77389. Live performances by Clint the Snake Man and a magician will contribute to this exciting event. Carnival activities include the costume contest, crafts, inflatables, concessions and a glowin-the-dark night hike! The evening wraps up with a Scooby-Doo movie in the park at 8 p.m. Stage performances, costume contest and movie are appropriate for all age groups and are free.

An annual tradition for the last 11 years, The Haunted Trail takes place again at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands 77381, from 8 to 10 p.m on Friday, October 17, 24 and 31, and Saturday, October 18 and 25. This year’s theme is The Neighborhood of Nightmares, a neighborhood with a secret for trail visitors to discover. The Haunted Trail is recommended for children ages nine and older. Admission is $8 per person, and entry ticket sales stop at 9:30 p.m.

Please e-mail The Woodlands Township Recreation Center at recreation@thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov or call 281-210-3950 for more information.

Tricks for a Safe Halloween

By Marian Leck

Why not start a new tradition in your neighborhood? Greet your trick-or-treaters outside! Grab your pumpkin, candy, and lawn chair and set up in your driveway to hand out your treats. This not only provides for a safer environment for the neighborhood goblins, but gives you an opportunity to visit with your neighbors!

Tricks for a Safe Halloween:

• Children should trick or treat with an adult. If kids are mature enough to be without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and go in a group. Teach children to never go into a stranger’s house unless an adult is with them.

• If children are trick or treating without an adult, have them carry a cell phone and check in often. Inform them to only go to houses with their porch lights on.

• Costumes should be made of light colors. Consider adding reflective tape to costumes or bags. Glow sticks help children be seen by drivers. Parents should carry a flashlight to lead the way.

• When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent falls and other bumps in the night. Also, make sure that costumes are flame retardant. Costume accessories should be short, soft and flexible.

• Try make up instead of a mask that could obstruct a child’s vision. When choosing make up, look for ingredients that are labeled “Made with U.S. approved color additives,” “Laboratory tested,” or “non-toxic.”

• When driving on Halloween, be especially alert for children. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways. Remove any distractions from your vehicle so you can concentrate on your surroundings. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of a vehicle.

• Examine all treats for choking hazards and tampering.

• Jack o’ Lanterns are fun, but can present a fire hazard if left unattended. Instead, use a glow stick or flameless candle for illumination.

Produced by

5th Annual

Sunday, October 26, 2014

3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway ®

Featuring Trick or Treating, Costume Contests, Children’s Activities & More!

The Woodlands, Texas

Sponsored by Sponsored by

#SHARETHEWOODLANDS

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   

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 



By Susan Martin

Crime Prevention Month

October is Crime Prevention Month and a good opportunity to review community policing in The Woodlands. Crime prevention is a group effort and requires the community to take a proactive role in safety. Knowing how to protect yourself and your property, and joining with your neighbors to make your neighborhood safer can reduce the opportunity for crime in The Woodlands.

There are many things that the community can do to help law enforcement in these efforts. The following are some tips for residents to reduce the risk of being a victim of a crime.

While out and about, it’s good to:

• Stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings, and who is in front of you and behind you. Don’t get distracted. If you’re worried, ask a friend to accompany you when you go out.

• Communicate the message that you’re calm, confident, and know where you’re going. Stand tall, walk purposefully, and make quick eye contact with people around you.

• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.

• Have your key in hand as you approach your vehicle or home.

While at home:

  

    

• Get to know your neighbors and join The Woodlands Watch.

• Stay alert to unusual sights and sounds in your neighborhood. Call law enforcement as soon as you see something suspicious.

• Set your alarm and lock your doors, even when you leave for just a few minutes.

• Keep your garage door closed, even in the daytime.

• Lock your car and secure your valuables out of sight.

• Do not open your door to anyone you do not know, including solicitors.

• Use anti-lift devices on windows on the ground level.

• Provide lighting for all outside entrances. Consider motion sensor lighting or timers.

• Lock your backyard gate.

Please take the time to review and practice these tips. For more tips on crime prevention and ways to make your home and neighborhood safer, please contact The Woodlands Township, Neighborhood Services Department and The Woodlands Watch at 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

East Shore residents learn about crime prevention at a recent Good Neighbor Day.

POWER

Power outage safety:

• Discard food if the temperature in your refrigerator exceeds 40 degrees for more than two hours.

• Stay away from downed power lines and anything they are in contact with such as fences or buildings.

• Never drive over downed power lines; they may be energized.

• Never use charcoal or gas grills inside a structure. You may be overcome by carbon monoxide.

• If you must use candles, be sure to use them safely. Never leave candles burning unattended.

Create a power outage plan:

Decide what you can do before, during and after a power outage to minimize the effect on your household.

This month, make sure you are able to safely meet your basic needs during an electrical outage. We count on electricity for heat, food and medical needs. Many gas appliances even need electricity to run.

Before the power goes out:

• Fill empty space in freezer with containers of water. Frozen water will displace air and keep food cold longer. Remember to leave space in containers for ice to expand.

• Have at least one phone with a handset cord in your home. Many cordless phones will not work in a power outage.

• If you have an automatic garage door opener, learn how to use the manual release and open your garage door manually.

• Try to keep your car’s gas tank at least half full. Many gas stations will not be in operation during a power outage. Fill up your tank if a major storm is predicted.

• Make sure you have a car or lighter plug cord for your cell phone.

• If you use special healthcare equipment like oxygen generators or dialysis equipment, notify your power company.

After the power goes out:

• Unplug major appliances and electronics. When the power comes back on, there may be power spikes that can damage large appliances or delicate electronics.

• Do not open refrigerators or freezers any more than necessary. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately 4 hours, and an unopened freezer will keep food frozen for approximately 24 hours.

• Use a battery-powered radio to stay informed.

By Bob Dailey

Whengrass begins to turn yellow or brown in fall and winter, it’s not a sign that it’s dying. Turning color is a sign that the grass is going dormant.

Yes, the roots are still alive. In good soil, those roots will be digging their way deep into the soil to get water and nutrients. But good soil is another story.

In late spring and summer months, local grasses need no more than an inch of water a week. Not so in the fall and winter.

The average rainfall in the cooler months here ranges from 5.4 inches in October to about 3.18 inches in February, more than enough to supply the minimum amount of water that local grasses need during the dormant season.

The statistics are pretty clear: October receives an average of 5.46 inches per month; November, 4.76; December, 4.09; January, 4.22; February, 3.18, and March, 3.03. That is

more than enough water to satisfy the needs of lawns. Even most landscape plants can thrive on that much water, unless they are native to tropical rainforests (which would be most out of place in The Woodlands).

Take October for example, with an average rainfall of 5.4 inches. That’s approximately 1.35 inches per week. That’s much more than St. Augustine requires, especially in the fall. On a 4,000 square foot lawn, that much rainfall equates to 3,370 gallons of water. In a month, that becomes over 13,000 gallons of rain. On a small lawn, that comes to almost $40 in savings on your water bill for one month.

Refraining from sprinkler irrigation in the cooler months can also help lower sewer bills. Sewer bills are calculated by the average water used by a customer in December, January and February. That average sets the

monthly sewer charge. By not irrigating during those months, a resident can save more money.

Of course, it may not rain each and every week. Some residents see that possibility as a problem. Assuming soil high in organic nutrients, much of the rain that falls can be captured in the ground where its use can be extended. That also results in much less runoff, as well.

Please visit www.wjpa.org for additional information on watering.

Photo by Cliff Roe Photography

www.ForumAtTheWoodlands.com

The 9th Annual Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas 10-mile road race is set for Saturday, October 11, 2014.

As many as 3,000 runners will race through The Woodlands and finish at Market Street in Town Center.

www.woodlandsfleamarket.org

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