October 2022

Cover photo by Perry Frank

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 Directors

H H

H HTownship Adopts 2023 Budget and Sets Historically Low Tax Rate

TheWoodlands Township Board of Directors unanimously voted to adopt its lowest property tax rate in its 12-year history at a meeting on September 12, 2022. President and Chief Executive Officer Monique Sharp led the board through comprehensive public meetings to develop the rate for residents and businesses of The Woodlands. All seven (7) directors unanimously approved the 2022 Ad Valorem Tax Rate of 18.50 cents per $100 of taxable value. In total, property owners will pay $2.5 million less in property taxes to the Township in 2023 compared to 2022.

The rate of 18.50 cents is 17.1% lower than the 2021 rate of 22.31 cents and 5.8% lower than the no-new-revenue rate of 19.64 cents certified by the Montgomery County tax assessor. The no-new-revenue rate is the tax rate that would impose the same taxes as last year when comparing properties taxed in both years. Since 2010, The Woodlands Township’s Board of Directors has lowered the tax rate by 56%.

The Township tax represents about 10% of the total tax bill for Montgomery County residents and 8% of the tax bill for Harris County residents. The largest portion of taxes paid go to public school districts, whose rates can be up to six times higher than the Township, and the Counties, whose rates are double (Montgomery) and nearly triple (Harris) of the Township rate.

“This is a historic day in The Woodlands,” said Township Chairman of the Board Gordy Bunch of the proposed tax rate. “We salute the efforts of our President and CEO Monique Sharp and her finance team, this board, and previous boards to put us in such an excellent financial position. The majority of our residents will be paying less Township taxes than last year, but they will be receiving an enhancement of high-level services and amenities they appreciate as seen in the 2022 Township Resident Survey.”

continued on page 5

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

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.,

G Houston, Texas 77069

Tax Rate - continued from page 3

The Township’s Board of Directors was able to significantly reduce the tax rate while providing enhanced services and amenities due to effective financial policies that have been in place for a number of years. These include a focus on diverse revenue sources, robust sales and hotel tax collections, and maintenance of reserve balances in line

with best practices recommended by credit agencies and the Government Finance Officers Association.

Policies that prevent the Township from being burdened with unfunded pension costs or high debt also contribute to the low tax rate. Debt balances have been reduced $76.8 million or 72% over the past 10 years, and the retirement

and refinancing of bonds at historically low rates have resulted in $12.5 million in interest expense savings. These low debt balances combined with evidence of strong fiscal management resulted in the Township achieving a bond rating of AA+, which is the highest bond rating held by a special purpose district in Texas.

in case you missed it

Resident Survey Returns High Marks for the Township

The Woodlands Township recently conducted its Resident Survey and achieved the highest rankings ever with several key areas ranking in the 90th percentile. The survey can be viewed online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/2022survey.

Residents rated the following services and amenities with a satisfaction level of 96 percent or higher: The Woodlands Fire Department, solid waste and recycling collection, parks and recreation facilities, emergency medical services, community pools and recreation programs. The report noted that most cities report a satisfaction rate of 85 percent, putting The Woodlands Township significantly higher than comparable communities.

Other highlights include at or above 90 percent satisfaction ratings for crime prevention, pathway and streetscape maintenance and neighborhood watch. Residents also gave exceptionally high ratings to the Township for communications and interactions with staff and departments. The Woodlands Community Magazine as the number one source for learning and hearing about activities in neighborhoods and villages, and the Township website and Facebook page ranked as the highest digital and social sources.

Photo by Perry Frank

2022 WALK & ROLL SCHEDULE

How can you spend quality time with your child and improve your family fitness? You can participate in your school’s Walk and Roll to School Day! When you walk or roll to school, you not only get your blood flowing, but you and your child also get out into nature together. Walking or rolling to and from school is a perfect opportunity to reflect on your child’s school day, feelings and other aspects of their day.

During the first two weeks of October, 13 schools in The Woodlands will participate in International Walk and Roll to School Day. During this time, staff from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services, Environmental Services, Township Park Rangers, Conroe ISD Police and Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office will assist the schools to promote safe pedestrian and bicycle skills to the students.

Below are some additional benefits to making every day Walk and Roll to School Day.

• Engage in meaningful conversation.

• Connect with neighbors when you join and walk as a group.

• Promote fun and fitness as part of your student’s school day routine.

• Create good fitness habits, which lead to healthy minds.

• Reduce your carbon footprint, providing fresh air for you and for the environment.

• See your neighborhood from a fresh new perspective.

The Walk and Roll to School initiative includes many benefits including support for health, the community and our environment. Please check the schedule at left to see when your school will participate. For more information, please contact Susan Martin in the Township Neighborhood Services Department at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ NeighborhoodWatch.

Walking and biking to school are great ways to bond with family, get exercise and practice good environmental habits. The Walk and Roll to School initiative takes place during the first two weeks in

in The Woodlands.

Photo by Perry Frank

LIST OF PARTICIPANTS

Public Safety Agencies: Montgomery County (MC) Sheriff’s Office, Alpha & Omega Mounted Patrol, MC Auto Theft Task Force, Conroe Independent School District Police, Crime Stoppers, The Woodlands Fire Department, Department of Public Safety, DEA, FBI, Harris County Constable, Precinct 4, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security, Montgomery County Hospital District, MCHD Bike Patrol, Montgomery County Juvenile Probation, Montgomery County 9-1-1, MC District Attorney, Victim Crime Assistance, MCSO Victim Services, TABC, Texas Rangers, and US Marshal Service.

Community Participants: American Red Cross, Montgomery County Assistance League, AFPS (Suicide Prevention), Montgomery County Crisis Assistance, Army Corps of Engineers, Water Safety Montgomery County Search and Rescue, Be Smart for Kids, Gun Safety MC Office of Emergency Management, Better Business Bureau, Identity Theft, Montgomery County Youth Services, Boy Scouts and Girls Scouts of America, Montgomery County Women’s Center, Bike The Woodlands Coalition, Montgomery County Fire Marshal, CERT – Community Emergency Response Team, Montgomery County Library, Safe 2 Save, Safe Kids Greater Houston - Bicycle Safety, Children’s Safe Harbor, Texas Game Warden, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Texas Children’s Hospital, Civil Air Patrol, Texas Department of Health Services – Vaping, Distracted Driving Simulator, Texas Agrilife, The Woodlands Children’s Museum, Entergy, The Woodlands Art League, Interfaith of The Woodlands, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, Kailee Mills Buckle up Foundation, The Woodlands Township Park Rangers, Little Beakers, Mosquito Control, Lone Star Legal Assistance, Tri County Behavioral Healthcare – Veterans, McCormack Fire Extinguisher Certification, Discovery School of Innovation, Memorial Hermann Hospital, Montgomery County Health District – Ambulance, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), YMCA, and Montgomery County Animal Shelter

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSOR: H-E-B

Firehouse Subs

Chick-fil-A

Dietz & Watson

National Night Out Community Safety Expo

By Susan Martin

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

Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands 77381

TheNational Night Out Community Safety Expo, coordinated by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department, is a day of food, fun and public safety demonstrations for the entire community. Residents will have the opportunity to meet and thank the first responders who keep our community safe. Those attending can explore public safety equipment from local, state and federal agencies, ask questions and learn about their work and services. In addition, local community organizations participate with information and giveaways on health and wellness, emergency preparedness and more. Bring a camera; you will want to capture it all!

Entertainment and demonstrations scheduled throughout the event include:

• Law Enforcement live K-9 demonstrations showing how canines detect narcotics, explosives and how they assist in apprehending criminals.

• Drone display and information

• Robot equipment used by the Montgomery County Fire Marshal SWAT Support and Hazmat

• Entergy Arcs and Sparks with the dangers of power lines

• Fire safety and firefighter equipment

Residents will also enjoy music and free food (sponsored by H-E-B and Dietz and Watson Meats). Sandwiches will be provided by Chick-fil-A and Firehouse Subs. Kids will love the kid zone which includes a bounce house, music, face painting, games and crafts. Enter the interactive fire safety house with your child and learn about how to avoid home fires. Mascot guests will include Puffy Pinecone, McGruff the Crime Dog, Smokey Bear and more.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Please follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

AT&T Kona Ice Starbucks

National Night Out NEIGHBORHOOD PARTIES

By Kristin Pternitis

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites everyone to join with their neighbors on Sunday, October 2, 2022, from 3 to 6 p.m., for National Night Out.

This is an annual communitybuilding campaign that promotes police-community partnerships, heightens crime and drug prevention awareness, generates support for local anti-crime efforts and sends a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized. Residents are asked to lock their doors and gather with their neighbors. When your neighborhood participates in National Night Out, it accomplishes one of the first steps

in crime prevention of neighbor knowing neighbor.

Take this opportunity to send a message that your neighborhood is united against crime. How you celebrate is up to you. It can be as simple as providing popsicles, or as elaborate as playing games and hosting a barbecue. All you need to do is gather your neighbors and participate!

There are lots of ways to participate through fun contests and more, including a food drive, ID the Burglar Contest and Village Challenge, a Military Care Package Drive, Selfie with an Officer Photo Contest, Sidewalk Chalk Art Competition, Theme Party Contest and more.

Please like and follow us on Facebook for more National Night Out

event information at www.facebook. com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

• Food Drive Drop Off October 3 – 7, 2022

• Military Items Drop Off October 3 – 7, 2022

• ID Burglar Forms Due October 3, 2022

• Theme Party and Sidewalk Chalk Photos Due October 3, 2022

• Final attendance numbers are due October 14. Please contact the Township office or email the Program Specialist for your village.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/nationalnightout.

township election november 8, 2022

Elections for The Woodlands Township Board of Directors are held in November. Each office carries a two-year term, and all positions are elected at large by voters in The Woodlands Township in both Montgomery County and Harris County. To vote in a Township election, you must be a registered voter in the county of your residence and be a resident of The Woodlands Township. The Woodlands Township will hold the next Board election on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Early voting begins on October 24, 2022.

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

By Zoe Killian

3R Recycling Drive-thru Village Challenge

Save these items and the date for 3R Recycling Drive-thru. This year’s Village Recycling Challenge item is lightbulbs. Burnt-out incandescent, compact fluorescent and LED bulbs brighten up this friendly competition between villages for scholarship funds, with awards donated by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. Bring bulbs and more to the free, one-day collection at the 3R Recycling Drive-thru event on Saturday, November 12, 2022, from 9 a.m. to noon to The Woodlands High School parking lot, located at 6101 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands, TX 77381. Unable to attend? Most of these items can be recycled year-round at participating locations. Check out the Recycle More Guide for a list of convenient drop-off locations at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ recyclemore.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/3Rdrivethru or contact the Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

ACCEPTED ITEMS

• 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. Must be intact, not broken. No tube lights over four feet.

• Oral Care Products - Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers.

• Plastic Bags & Film – Any plastic film that is clean, dry and stretches.

• Small Electronics – One file box or paper shopping bag per vehicle. Laptops, tablets, cell phones and cords only. No TVs or monitors. This service for residents only. Proof of Woodlands address (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 –Donation of five cans of food or $5 per box suggested.

Please collect bulbs in a box and label with your village’s name. Bag or box other like items together and place in your trunk or back seat – no need to get out of the vehicle! Volunteers provide a full-service drive-thru. No business items will be accepted.

Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM

Advanced Breast Screenings Close to Home

At Houston Methodist Breast Care Center in The Woodlands, our specialists review your mammogram history and track results over time — detecting changes earlier. That’s why getting your mammogram starting at age 40 — or earlier, if you have a family history — is so important.

Our Breast Care Center offers:

• The latest 3D mammogram technology

• Board-certified breast imaging radiologists

• Acceptance of most major insurance plans

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

The Woodlands

Scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/breast-care or call 936.270.3600 to schedule your mammogram today.

We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.

Alden Bridge

Hey Alden Bridge, can you believe it is October already? Time to get those costumes and decorations ready for all those little goblins out there.

This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at 7 p.m. Meetings are scheduled at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. All are welcome to attend.

Our August Yard of the Month winners were Stan and Stephanie Marts on Old Cedar Circle. They received our final Yard of the Month award for 2022. Despite all the dry days and heat, they managed to keep their yard green and beautiful.

We want to say, “Job well done,” to all our Alden Bridge neighbors who kept busy in the garden this year!

And now, let us switch gears and start looking this month for the highly coveted Spookiest House in the Village Award (best Halloween decorations) at the end of October. While you are cruising the neighborhoods, look out for all those goblins and ghouls, and send your favorite address to abvainfo@gmail.com no later than Monday evening, October 24, 2022. We will award the spooky winners at the end of this month.

Plans for the Alden Bridge Fall Festival are underway for next month. Mark your calendar for November 5, 2022, from 1 to 4 p.m. You will not want to miss this great event. We will

have food, games, a DJ, a rock wall and much, much more. We want to see everyone out with their families to enjoy a great time at Lakeside Park…and the best part, it is free for all to attend!

Celebrate America Recycles Day at the 3R Recycling Drive-thru, 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 item is incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) and LED light bulbs. No tube lights over four feet. Light bulbs must be intact, not broken. This friendly competition awards funds for our scholarship fund for our Alden Bridge students. Please place bulbs in a separate box and label with your village’s name or tell the volunteer your village name when you drop off. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

Between issues of this magazine, do not forget our website, www.aldenbridge.org, Facebook page or email newsletter as ways to keep up with the latest news of our village. If you do not receive the email newsletter, send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com so you can be added to the mailing list. Have a safe month and a very happy Halloween!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Cochran’s Crossing

As temperatures cool down in October, we start the shift into fall, pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and designs begin appearing on front porches, and pumpkin-spice everything is baking and brewing! Cochran’s Crossing Village Association hopes you will join us for the annual

Fall Festival on October 23, 2022, at Shadowbend Park. We’ll have games, vendor tables, prizes, music and much, much more! We still have space available for local businesses or organizations interested in being a vendor and renting a table for the event; please contact 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.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association is going all out for Halloween and our annual decorating contest! The creepiest overall house will win “Creepiest Crib” (and bragging rights for a full year). If your house is voted most appropriate for kids ages 8 and younger, you could win “Most Spooktacular,” and the street voted as best decorated could win “Devious Drive.” More information, including how to submit nominations or cast your vote, criteria and deadlines will be available online and on the Facebook page.

All residents are invited to attend Cochran’s Crossing Village Association board meetings, which occur on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township office. The next meetings are scheduled for September 27 and October 18, 2022.

Find more information online at www.cochranscrossing.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ cochranscrossingvillage.

Submitted by Jaime DiNoia

College Park

Happy fall to all our residents from College Park Village Association. We hope everyone takes a few minutes to read this magazine monthly and other local newspapers which keep us all up to date with new businesses and events going on! Also, don’t forget about our College Park Facebook page.

National Night Out for The Woodlands is Sunday, October 2, 2022. Residents can arrange a block party on their street, in their driveway or house. Time can vary, but the best time frame is 4 to 6 p.m. Meet your neighbors, exchange phone numbers in case of emergency and watch each other’s property for suspicious activity. There are many new people moving into The Woodlands. Let’s get to know our neighbors! National Night Out is also a time to discuss and remind everyone of neighborhood safety.

Our annual Halloween Spooktacular will be held on Saturday, October 29, 2022, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Harper’s Landing Park. Our village residents are encouraged to bring their children dressed in their Halloween costumes, as we will have a costume contest and a Treat Trail at 3:30 p.m.! Prizes will be awarded for costumes: Scariest, Funniest and Most Original! Join us for food, drinks and treats.

The College Park board will have a National Night Out booth for our residents to gather more information at our Spooktacular.

In closing, the weather will be much more bearable, and the holiday season will be upon us soon. Please be careful when driving around The Woodlands community, as our children are out and about playing. We do live in the best community, and we pray that everyone stays healthy and safe!

Our College Park monthly meeting is at 6 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. Residents of College Park, which includes Harpers Landing, Grogan’s Forest and Windsor Hills residents, are encouraged to bring any concerns to our meeting and they will be resolved or brought to the Township Board. Take care!

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Panther Creek

Time to kick back, watch the trees burst into reds and yellows, and make those 100-degree days of summer fade from memory. Now, get ready for a wonderful season of events in Panther Creek and all The Woodlands!

On October 2, 2022, many neighborhoods are holding National Night Out parties and visiting with neighboring families. If somehow you missed your party, or if there wasn’t one in your neighborhood, contact the Township Neighborhood Services Department at 281-210-3800 to find out how they can help you get ready for next year.

Do your kids like fire trucks, police cars and emergency vehicles? On October 15, 2022, from noon to 3 p.m., come to the Community Safety Expo at Northshore Park to see and experience them in person and learn about your role in keeping our neighborhood communities safe and peaceful.

For those with a yearning for an adventurous yet nearby outing high in the trees this October, please contact Texas TreeVentures at 281-210-2048 for special upcoming events.

For those of us who enjoy music in the open air, the ever popular (and free) Concert in the Park series continues during the evenings of October 9, 16 and 23, 2022. Concert in the Park takes place at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381.

Boo! The Halloween season is here. The Woodlands Township has events where treats far outweigh the tricks, from October 14 through October 30, 2022. Please see the Calendar of Events at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ calendar for information about The Haunting at Bear Branch Park, Trick-or-Treat Trail, the Glow and Go 5K race along the Waterway and the Monster Mash.

Your Panther Creek board exists to help you stay informed and to provide

a venue for you to express your ideas and concerns and then direct you to those who are in positions to answer. We invite you to join us in person as we meet at The Woodlands Township office on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m.

Submitted by

Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

The Sterling Ridge Village Association will host the 15th Annual BBQ, Pumpkin Patch and Kids Festival on October 22, 2022, at Cranebrook Park from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event is free to the public and will have plenty of BBQ, a pumpkin patch with pumpkins for sale, games for kids, bounce-houses, cotton candy, face painting, fire department and sheriff’s office meet and greets, etc. Everyone is welcome to attend!

Sterling Ridge Village Association meets on the first Thursday of every month, and our next meeting will be October 6, 2022, at the RE/MAX office at 6620 Woodlands Parkway at 7 p.m. Visit us online at www. sterling-ridge.org and sign up for our monthly newsletter. You can also follow the village association Instagram for information about upcoming events.

Submitted by Jason J.

Pish

Smash Your Composting Goals with Pumpkins

By Amber Barnes

Join The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department for the first-ever Pumpkin Smash on Saturday, November 5, 2022. This free event, hosted from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Sterling Ridge Park and Ride, 8001 McBeth Way, provides a unique opportunity for residents to dispose of their Halloween pumpkins and create nutrient-dense compost.

Each year 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins end up in U.S. landfills. That’s a scary amount of food waste. Instead of putting your jack-o-lantern in the trash, bring it to the Pumpkin Smash.

Choose your own pumpkin-smashing adventure! Catapult it and watch it fly,

grab a baseball bat and smash it to pieces or watch it explode on impact from a 30-foot drop. Staff and volunteers will be on hand to monitor safety and ensure fun. Ghoulish pumpkin remains will give new life as nutrient-rich compost instead of being buried in the landfill. Discover how easy it is to start composting in your own backyard. Local experts will be on hand to answer questions and share upcoming free compost class schedules.

What to bring:

• A pumpkin or pumpkins.

• No limit on the number.

• Can be carved or whole.

• Can be painted with acrylic paints.

• Must be free of non-biodegradable materials such as candles, stickers, yarn, googly eyes, plastics, etc.

• Safety goggles and gloves (or borrow safety gear from the Township).

• Wear closed-toe shoes.

For more information, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or visit the event page using the QR code below.

The Woodlands Township invites you to the first ever pumpkin smash on Saturday, November 5, 2022. Bring your jack-olanterns and give them a second life as compost.

FIND YOUR FUN... RECREATION ROUNDUP

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department offers a full line-up of fun and entertainment for the fall and winter seasons. Try new adventures and celebrate all the fun that the festive seasons bring. Improve your physical fitness by signing up for the Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas or the first-ever Glow and Go 5K. Climb through the night sky with a visit to Texas TreeVentures or paddle for Halloween treats at Riva Row Boat House. Conjure up some fun at Trick-or-Treat Trail and sleep under the stars at Creekside Campout.

amazing adventures right here in the woodlands!

Texas TreeVentures: Take Nights to New Heights

October is again upon us; it comes once a year, and Halloween is near. While the ghosts and the ghouls prepare to give you frights, climb at Texas TreeVentures and take this spooky season to new heights. Texas TreeVentures is open Friday through Sunday every week while school is in session. It’s also never too early to start looking ahead to Thanksgiving break. While the kids are out of school, Texas TreeVentures will be open to the public every day from November 18 - November 27, 2022, excluding Thanksgiving Day. Book your climb early, as spots fill up fast!

Also, join us for our thrilling evening and night events this season. Texas TreeVentures offers three great events for the family to enjoy.

All events are subject to cancellation due to low enrollment. For more information, please call 281-210-2048, email info@texastreeventures.com or visit www.texastreeventures.com.

Sunset & S’mores returns with a twohour climb as the sun sets below the trees and ends the night with a campfire and tasty s’mores.

Friday, October 7, 2022 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, November 4, 2022 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, December 2, 2022 5 to 8 p.m.

Glow Crazy! is a thrilling evening event designed for the whole family (ages 6 and up). This event features a three-hour climb beginning while the sun sets. Once the sun goes down,

By Joseph Francis

the lights go up, and the course is lit from the ground. Youth supervision requirements are heightened for this event. All children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by an adult (ages 18+).

Friday, October 21, 2022 .......... 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, November 18, 2022 6 to 9 p.m.

Friday, December 16, 2022 5 to 8 p.m.

Glow in the Park! is a customer favorite. Join us for a night at height as you climb through the course illuminated entirely by artificial light! Experience the course after dark with a three-hour climb. Must be age 13 or older to participate.

Friday, October 21, 2022, 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday, November 18, 2022 7 to 10 p.m.

Friday, December 16, 2022 ...... 6 to 9 p.m.

Race to the Finish at Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas

By Liz Aguirre

Don’t

miss one of the community’s premier running events, the annual Memorial Hermann 10 for Texas race! The event will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022, and features a 10-mile course, the 3.1 Armadillo Run (5K) and the One 4 Texas Kids’ Fun Run (1-mile). The race culminates with a Texas-sized post-race party featuring great food, beverages and live music by Brandon McDermott Band.

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.

Not running? Volunteer opportunities are still available! To sign up today, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/volunteer.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/10fortexas or email races@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for more information.

Enjoy Live Music at Rock the Row

By Liz Aguirre

Rock the Row returns for its fall run with an exciting lineup of live music performances. The free concert series at Hughes Landing takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays, from October 13 through November 10, 2022. This event features live music, with happy hour and specials offered at the adjacent Restaurant Row. Blankets, lawn chairs and coolers are permitted. Glass is prohibited. Rock the Row is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation®

October 13, 2022

Amado J Garcia Band (Variety)

October 20, 2022

Shekere (Latin/Variety)

October 27, 2022

Mike Donnell (Texas Country)

More in November

Tandem Trick-or-Treat

There is no other time quite like the Halloween season. It begins early with candy and spooky decorations filling the shelves of every store. Soon we find ourselves delighting in scary movies, haunted houses, pumpkin carving and all the quintessential Halloween traditions. But, most importantly, nothing encompasses the spirit of All Hallow’s Eve quite like trick-or-treating!

Riva Row Boat House’s Tandem Trick-or-Treat event has been a staple of the community for many years. Families flock to the docks to embark in a tandem kayak on The Woodlands Waterway. There you will find stations along the banks where costumed characters await

DATES and TIMES

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

Saturday, October 22, 2022

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

Saturday, October 29, 2022

to hand out all your favorite Halloween treats. Then return to Riva Row for a final treat! (No tricks; we promise.) Being on the water adds a whole new level of excitement unmatched by any door-to-door or trunk-to-trunk trick-ortreat event.

Pre-registration is required for this one-hour spooktacular event, which is recommended for children ages 10 and under with an accompanying parent or guardian. Tandem kayaks typically accommodate two riders. Children under 42 inches tall can ride in the middle of a tandem kayak with a parent on both sides, if needed. Otherwise, registration assumes one child and one parent per

$45 per tandem kayak. Waivers must be signed and on file for all watercraft occupants. Lifejackets and paddles are included in all rentals. Start times for

By Edward Zimmel

kayak. Come dressed for fun in your favorite costume (if you like, but not required). Keep in mind that being on the water means your clothing and costumes may get wet. We will provide the candyand a bucket to hold it!

Tandem Trick-or-Treat is held exclusively at Riva Row Boat House. The registration fee of $45 includes a kayak for two, life jackets, paddles, plenty of candy and boatloads of fun.

To make a reservation and explore our other activities and events, please visit www.rivarowboathouse.com. For more information, please call 281-210-3965 or email boathouse@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

The Glow and Go 5K

By Angela Ellis

The first annual Glow and Go 5K kicks off on Saturday, October 29, 2022, along The Woodlands Waterway at 7 p.m. Glow and Go 5K is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and is a USA Track and Field (USTAF) sanctioned event. The chip-timed 5K course will wind alongside the Waterway, providing a scenic route and a fun, enjoyable atmosphere fostering friendly competition. Runners are encouraged to dress in their best glow costumes in the spirit of Halloween! The 5K race is open to runners of all abilities and recommended for participants ages 10 and older. Registration includes a finisher medal and participant packet. There will be no race day registration. For more information, please email races@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/races.

Monster Mash Trick-or-Treat Stop

By Michael Corbett

Calling all witches, superheroes, monsters and princesses! The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park is open for the Monster Mash: Trick-or-Treat Stop on Sunday, October 30, 2022, from 2 to 5 p.m. and you are invited. This is a free, family-friendly event. Activities include trick or treating across the campus with costumed recreation staff, games, inflatables, crafts, costume contests and more. It is sure to be a spooktacular time with plenty of candy and fun for all. Concessions will be available for purchase. If you or your organization would like to volunteer at this event, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/volunteer. For vendor and sponsorship opportunities, please email recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

The Trick-or-Treat Trail

By Angela Ellis

Princesses, pirates, ghosts and goblins are invited to don their costumes and enjoy a ghoulish celebration at the annual Trick-or-Treat Trail on Saturday, October 22, 2022, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Northshore Park, 2505 Lake Woodlands Drive. Children will have the opportunity to trick or treat from booth to booth and fill their bags with goodies from local vendors. This free event will also include strolling entertainers, inflatables, carnival games, costume contests, a pumpkin patch photo area, balloon artists, food trucks and more!

This event is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department. For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ trickortreattrail or email specialevents@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

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Photo by Derrick Bryant

Sleep Under the Stars at Creekside

Campout

By Michael Corbett

Switch up your weekend routine and join The Woodlands Township under the stars at Creekside Campout on Saturday, November 12 and Sunday, November 13, 2022. Check-in will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Pitch your tent in the field at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park and enjoy a weekend in the great outdoors.

Activities include crafts, games, kayaking, archery, nature hikes, outdoor movies, bingo and more. Dinner will be served Saturday evening and breakfast will be served Sunday morning.

Please note, pre-registration is required. The cost is $150 per family of four; $30 each additional family member. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to experience camping with your family right here in The Woodlands.

Celebrate the Season with the Township

By Mark Lazenby

TheWoodlands Township invites you to ring in the holiday season with a variety of fun-filled events for all ages. Traditional Parks and Recreation activities such as the Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt, Gingerbread House Making, Holiday Bingo Breakfast and Feliz NaviDog are sure to instill the holiday spirit.

Holiday events typically sell out quickly, so please register as soon as possible. If activities are full, please add your name to the waitlist as spots may become available. Pre-registration is required; registration on event day is not permitted unless space and supplies allow. For more information about holiday activities or to secure your spot, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950 or visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide.

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide selection of holiday activities to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Spend the Holidays with Sunny Dayz

By Mark Lazenby

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation offers Sunny Dayz Camp during the Thanksgiving and winter holiday school breaks. Holiday camps will be held at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, on the following dates:

• November 21, 22, and 23, 2022 Camp closes at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 23, 2022.

• December 19, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 30, 2022 Camp will not be held on Friday, December 23, 2022, and Monday, December 26, 2022.

• January 3, 2023 Camp will not be held on Monday, January 2, 2023. Campers will enjoy indoor and outdoor games, crafts, theme days, special snacks, visits to the park, dodgeball, four-square, ga-ga ball and more. Spots are limited; early registration is recommended. For more information, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950, or visit www.sunnydayzcamp.com.

Spend an evening in the great outdoors at Creekside Campout on November 12 - 13, 2022.

Photo by Joseph Francis

has selected the 2023 Memorial Hermann IRONMAN® Texas triathlon to host the IRONMAN Americas Championship for 2023. After hosting the IRONMAN North America Championship for multiple years, The Woodlands, Texas now expands their designation to the Americas, representing the regional championship for North and South America. The 2023 Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Americas Championship Texas triathlon, part of the VinFast IRONMAN U.S. Series, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 22, 2023. To register, please visit www.ironman.com/im-texas-register.

Important Notice:

By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of 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

Holly Steinke

A Homeowner’s Guide to General Maintenance

By Tamara Bean

As a homeowner, it is important to ensure that your home is well-maintained and up to date on general repairs.

This is especially important if you are a resident of The Woodlands community, where not maintaining your home could result in a violation of The Woodlands Residential Development Standards. Luckily, there are a few easy steps you can take to maintain your home and improve your home’s value.

General Home Maintenance Tips

• Perform regular yard maintenance such as mowing, weeding, edging, seeding and pruning up to the pavement edge. This includes the removal of yard debris such as tree limbs and weeds from landscaping beds.

• Remove all trash and debris from view of the street and neighboring properties. This includes screening trash cans from view, except during trash pickup times.

• Remove leaves and other debris from the rooftop and gutters.

• Ensure that all vehicles are parked entirely on concrete or other approved hard surface materials. Parking on the lawn, ditches, dirt, gravel or grassy areas is strictly prohibited.

• Remove mold/green algae from the exterior of the home. This may require pressure washing and could result in color fading. If you must repaint the exterior, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for information on acquiring a permit.

• Repair any damaged/broken windows, gutters, garage doors, fences, pavement, etc.

The importance of maintaining your home and keeping it up to Standards is key to being a good homeowner or renter. Life can get busy, so it is important to allot a certain amount

of time for taking care of repairs and necessary upkeep on the exterior of your residence. Therefore, get out that toolbox and garden equipment, put away those trash cans and enjoy the fresh new look of your home!

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

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