November 2020

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

The Woodlands Township

NOVEMBER ELECTION

LAWN AND ORDER

3R RECYCLING DRIVE-THRU EVENT

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 911

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Bruce Rieser Vice Chairman

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Director,

No. 5

Jason J. Nelson Director,

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary

Bob Milner Director

Jeff Jones President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer

November 2020 • Volume 24 • Issue

The Woodlands COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

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

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Cheryl Kirsch

Graphic Designers

Jim Callahan

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editors

Perry Frank

Shelby Doerries

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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

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

www.championsprinting.com

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

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

Holidays in The Woodlands

By Liz Aguirre

Lighting of the Doves

Join us Saturday, November 21, 2020, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Town Green Park for the Annual Lighting of the Doves, a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the community’s holiday season. This year’s event, modified for COVID-19, will be limited to Santa’s arrival to Town Green Park, the dove lighting ceremony and fireworks. No activities, vendor booths, snow play areas or concessions/beverages will be available at this year’s event. Please consider supporting local restaurants before or after attending the event.

Those planning to attend should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines recommended by the CDC when around others outside of your household. Masks are highly encouraged. Hand sanitizing stations will be located throughout the park.

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center

The Woodlands Township invites families and friends to enjoy ice skating this season beginning on Friday, November 20, 2020. The 21,000-square-foot multipurpose facility features ice skating in a main room with lighting, a state-of-theart sound system, concessions and tables for parties. Grab your friends and get your cheer and chill on at The Ice Rink! Open daily November 20, 2020, through January 18, 2021. For hours of operation and admission information, please visit www.thewoodlandsicerink.com or www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/icerink.

Those planning to visit The Ice Rink should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines recommended by the CDC when around others outside of your household. Masks are required for entry, but may be removed when skating. Visitors will be screened and temperature checked prior to entry.

Photos by Derrick Bryant

Veterans Day Tribute

By Angela Ellis

Please join us Wednesday, November 11, 2020, at 4:30 p.m. in Town Green Park for The Woodlands Township Veterans Day Tribute featuring a presentation of colors, musical performances, keynote speakers and more. A special military care package drop-off booth will also be on site to accept donations of recommended items to be shipped to troops abroad. For a list of recommended items, or for more information about the Veterans Day Tribute, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/veteransday.

Those planning to attend should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines recommended by the CDC when around others outside of your household. Masks are highly encouraged. Hand-sanitizing stations will be located throughout the park.

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Safe Holidays at Home

Holidays can be an enjoyable time at home with family. Below are a few reminders of the things you can do to protect your property and keep your family safe when you are home or away.

For home burglary prevention, confirm that doors and windows are locked, set your home alarm, and close and lock your backyard gates and garage doors when you leave. Teach your family and guests how to use the alarm and what to do if it sounds. For vehicle burglary prevention, remove valuables, lock your vehicles, set your vehicle alarm and park in your locked garage, when possible.

Adjust your blinds, so light can come in, but that a potential burglar outside can’t see packages or valuables inside. If you aren’t sure which way to tip the blinds, go outside and look into your home. Try it at night also with your indoor lights on – you may be surprised

at what someone can see! When you purchase a new big-ticket item, cut up the box and place it in your recycling bin, or if you requested a cardboard box pickup, stack it without the print showing, so that people driving by can’t see what new items you have.

For strangers and solicitors at your door, never open your door. Speak to them through the door, so they know someone is home, which may discourage a potential burglar from trying to break in. Contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch to get a No Solicitor decal and tips for dealing with a solicitor.

If you see something suspicious in your neighborhood, call your local law enforcement, or call 9-1-1 if it is a life-threatening emergency or crime in progress. Those with cameras at their doors should monitor their notifications and report anything suspicious to their

By Holly Steinke

law enforcement before posting to social media.

If you are going away for the holidays, ask a trusted neighbor to pick up packages, fliers and newspapers for you and put out and bring in your trash cans to make it appear as if you are home. Be sure to return the favor, if you are able! Lights on timers may also help make your home look occupied.

Thanks for being proactive and doing your part to help prevent crime and keep your loved ones safe. To keep in touch with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, call 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov, and like and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ townshipneighborhoodwatch. The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch wishes you and your family safe and happy holidays!

By Nicole Mathews

LAWN and ORDER

Lush greenery is something we all love about The Woodlands. However, that beauty comes with a cost, namely in the form of extra maintenance.

All the trimming, weeding and mowing creates mounds of yard debris in no time. What to do with all those trimmings? Fortunately, residents have a variety of options for easy disposal of yard trimmings.

1. Waste Management accepts an unlimited amount of yard trimmings (grass, leaves and branches no larger than 4 inches in diameter or 4 feet in length). No service tag or special order is required for pickup. Simply have your items placed at the curb by 7 a.m. on your regular service day.

2. Yard trimmings are composted, not landfilled, so please include only organic material in certified plastic or paper compostable bags (regular plastic lawn and leaf bags are not accepted). Reusable opentop containers without a lid, such as traditional garbage cans, are another great option for housing your yard trimmings for pickup. Piles of sticks and branches, bundled with natural twine, are also accepted. Just remember to abide by the Rule of Fours – piles must be no higher or

longer than 4 feet and weigh less than 40 lbs.

3. Make life even easier, and don’t bag it. One of the best ways to maintain a healthy lawn, in addition to not overwatering, is to cut it with a mulching mower and leave the grass where it lies. It quickly breaks down and returns essential nutrients to the soil. Do this with leaves as well. Your lawn will thank you and you’ll have fewer trips to the curb on trash day.

4. Consider backyard composting. In a matter of weeks, grass clippings, leaves, pine needles and kitchen scraps break down into nutrient-rich soil. Then apply that “black gold” to your lawn or garden. The Township offers one-hour online composting clinics throughout the fall and winter to walk you step-by-step through this simple and rewarding process.

Despite the variety of home-based options, some still look to dispose of yard trimmings elsewhere, such as community reserves, cul-de-sac islands and other public property. This is

considered unauthorized dumping and presents a number of challenges. Piled yard trimmings in these areas heighten fire risk, disrupt scheduled landscaping maintenance, inhibit natural drainage, create habitat for vermin and snakes, and create an eyesore that invites additional dumping. The environment also suffers as natural forestation processes are affected and pest and mosquito activity increases.

Be sure to keep yard trimmings out of drainage easements and storm drains, as well. Steer grass and leaves away from storm drains to combat mosquito breeding (avoid irrigation run-off, as well). If you contract your lawn service, request that they haul all yard trimmings away instead of blowing it down the street.

The Woodlands Township is enlisting your help in properly disposing of yard trimmings. Please utilize the many resources available. Together, we can keep The Woodlands beautiful. To report unauthorized dumping, please contact the The Woodlands Township Resident Care Center at 281-210-3800.

FALL 2020 CAMPS SUNNY

Give the gift of fun to the kids, ages 6 through 12, this season at our holiday break camps at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Campers will enjoy indoor and outdoor games, crafts, theme days, special snacks, visits to the parks, Ga-Ga ball foursquare and more! For more information about Sunny Dayz Camp, as well as our policies and procedures during COVID-19, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/sunnydayzcamp. Sunny Dayz Camp will continue to monitor CISD and TISD schedules throughout the fall.

THANKSGIVING BREAK

November 23, 24, 25, 2020

WINTER CAMP

December 21, 22, 23, 24 (Week 1)

Camp closes at 3 p.m., December 24, 2020

December 28, 29, 30, 31 (Week 2)

Camp closes at 3 p.m., December 31, 2020

$50 Daily

$125 Three-Day $175 Four-Day

Thanksgiving Holiday Waste Schedule

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, The Woodlands Township reminds residents that there will be no solid waste collection services on Thursday, November 26, 2020. Curbside service will resume on Friday, November 27, 2020. Households with standard Thursday or Friday service will receive service the following day. These scheduled changes impact all collections including trash, recycling, yard trimmings, bulk pick-up and Simple textile recycling. Please see the chart

below to determine your service day.

The standard service schedule resumes on Monday, November 30, 2020. The Woodlands Recycling Center on Research Forest Drive will remain open on Wednesday, November 25, 2020, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 28, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For trouble-free service, please keep streets clear of parked cars to allow trucks to safely access carts. Place carts at the curb before 7 a.m., and confirm that cart lids close completely. Failure to

STANDARD SERVICE DAY HOLIDAY SERVICE DAY

Monday, November 23, 2020 No interruption

Tuesday, November 24, 2020 No interruption

Wednesday, November 25, 2020 No interruption

Thursday, November 26, 2020

Friday, November 27, 2020

follow all service guidelines will result in items being left at the curb.

Per the Holiday Collection Schedule, the only holidays that will affect residential trash and recycling service are New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

To find more information about trash and recycling services, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ holidaytrash. To report missed pick-ups, please call Waste Management Customer Service at 800-800-5804.

Friday, November 27, 2020

Saturday, November 28, 2020

By Zoe Killian

FREE ONE-DAY RECYCLING EVENT

Saturday, November 14, 2020, 9 a.m. to noon parking lot of The Woodlands High School

Join The Woodlands Township in celebrating America Recycles Day at the 3R Drive-Thru. This event celebrates the importance of recycling in our community and offers a convenient and free opportunity to recycle items that cannot be recycled in curbside carts.

This year’s event, which is drivethru only, happens from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, November 14, 2020, in the parking lot of The Woodlands High School (enter from Millennium Forest Dr.). Please refer to the list at right for accepted items and guidelines. Free recycling is for residents only, no businesses please.

The safety of volunteers, staff and residents is the highest priority. All volunteers and staff will wear face

coverings. Participants are required to wear a face covering, as well, while items are being removed from the car.

This year’s Village Recycling Challenge item is Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V batteries. This friendly competition awards funds for scholarships to villages with the highest participation; funds are donated by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. Please label your bag/box of batteries with your village’s name.

For event updates and more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-281-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/3Rbazaar.

November 2020

Please visit the Township’s online calendar for the very latest information on Township events and cancellations regarding The Woodlands Township Board of Directors meetings, Development Standards Committee and Residential Design Review Committee Meetings, Village Meetings, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market and many other Township-related activities that are usually listed here. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar

HOLIDAY GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

There will be NO garbage and recycling service on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2020. All services will be delayed by one day through Saturday, November 28, 2020. Regular schedule will resume on Monday, November 30, 2020. Please watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash. Please see page 14.

Photo by Perry Frank

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, thanks to all who participated in any way with our village association’s programs and activities throughout this challenging year. Although many of our events were sidelined due to COVID-19, we are always appreciative of all volunteers, including our board members.

It’s Township election time again! Early voting for The Township Board of Directors election started October 13, 2020, ended on October 30, 2020, and Election Day will be November 3, 2020. We’ll elect four at-large members of our Township Board of Directors. Please make your voice heard through your vote. These people represent you in matters that affect the quality of life here as well as use of your assessment dollars.

Our August Yard of the Month winner was the Grover family of Latticeleaf Place.

Congratulations to all of this year’s winners and thanks to everyone who sent us nominations! We’ll begin again next spring. In December, we’ll have the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating contest – more information to come in the December issue of this magazine.

Later this month, let’s celebrate America Recycles Day at the 3R DriveThru Event. 3R celebrates the importance of recycling in our community and offers free opportunities to recycle items

that cannot be recycled in curbside carts. Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 14, 2020, from 9 a.m. to noon at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive. Support your Alden Bridge Village Association by bringing batteries (Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) for free recycling. Participating villages will receive a scholarship donation based on the amount collected on the day of the event. Please bag or box items separately by category and place them in your trunk or back passenger side seat for safe access by volunteers. If you have documents for shredding and food pantry donations, a volunteer will remove these from the vehicle and take them to the appropriate location.

Another reminder that The Woodlands Township Village Challenge is underway. As part of the Plant for Pollinators Program, residents who register a garden between now and December 1, 2020, will earn a point for their village. The top three villages will be awarded a cash donation for their village scholarship fund. View www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ plantforpollinators for more information on the Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge or to register your garden.

This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 10, 2020, at 7 p.m. Meetings are scheduled at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Dr., although, as of this writing due to the pandemic, our meetings have been held virtually. Follow the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook or our website, www. aldenbridge.org for updates. If you are interested in attending our meetings while they are being held virtually, especially if you have a public comment or concern, please send us an e-mail at abvainfo@gmail.com.

Don’t forget the Township’s Veterans Day Tribute on Wednesday,

November 11, 2020, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Town Green Park. Please join us as we honor the military men and women who have served our nation.

Between issues of this magazine, don’t 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 want to receive the email newsletter, please send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com so you can be added to the mailing list.

Happy Thanksgiving, Alden Bridge!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Cochran’s Crossing

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association recently took the fun to the neighborhoods with free Kona Ice snow cones. The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association planned three days of routes to visit every neighborhood in the village. Residents had a great time meeting the truck on their streets. We enjoyed seeing the excited kids waiting for the truck to arrive or running down the street to get their cones, dads taking a break from their yard work to treat their kids and kids on bikes grabbing a snow cone before venturing off. It was a great event for families and friends, while allowing social distancing outdoors.

Please connect with the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association to receive emails about upcoming events in the village and in The Woodlands. Please visit www.cochranscrossing.com and complete the form under the Connect tab to be added to the distribution list. Also, like us on the Village of Cochran’s Crossing Association Facebook page and stay up to date on the latest news.

Don’t forget to drop off your used batteries at the 3R Drive-Thru Event on Saturday, November 14, 2020, from 9 a.m. to noon at 8203 Millennium Forest Dr.,

Congratulations to the Alden Bridge August Yard of the Month winner, the Grover family of Latticeleaf Place.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

next to The Woodlands High School. Put your batteries in a box or bag and label it as Cochran’s Crossing. Please put the batteries in your trunk or back passenger side seat; there is no need to leave your vehicle. A volunteer will open the trunk, hatchback or rear side passenger door and remove your batteries. The elementary students, teachers, scholarship recipients and board appreciate your participation,

which supports the education fund! Please refer to The Woodlands Township website for other recyclables accepted at the 3R Drive-Thru Event.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and be on the lookout for information about the Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest judging coming in December. We will be out driving the village to judge holiday light displays, so be sure to decorate early and turn those lights on nightly!

For concerns or questions, please email us at cochranscrossingvillage@gmail.com.

Submitted by Cynthia Kessinger

College Park

The College Park Board of Directors continues to meet and plan via Zoom. We just want to say hello to all our residents and let you know we are still here.

We had the pleasure of meeting many of the Township Board of Director candidates at our meeting in September. Please exercise your right to vote on November 3, 2020.

At our September meeting, Dr. Chris Nunes, Director of Parks and Recreation for The Woodlands Township, provided us with an explanation for the vine removal program. Invasive vines kill healthy trees. The Woodlands began the vine removal program in 1999, and in 2003 it became part of the Township Integrated Forest Management Plan. Dr. Nunes reminded us that residents should not throw yard waste and debris over the fence as this causes problems with drainage and attracts rodents to the neighborhood.

Each month we get a crime report from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Specialists Medina and McKee reported that August was a low crime month for College Park, and there were no major motor vehicle accidents. Remember to lock your car whenever you exit it.

VILLAGE WEBSITES

ALDEN BRIDGE

www.aldenbridge.org

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

www.cochranscrossing.com

COLLEGE PARK

www.villageofcollegepark.com

CREEKSIDE PARK

www.creeksideparkvillage.com

GROGAN’S MILL

www.grogansmillvillage.com

INDIAN SPRINGS

www.indianspringsvillage.com

PANTHER CREEK

www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

STERLING RIDGE

www.sterling-ridge.org

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association recently provided free Kona Ice snow cones to families in their village and neighborhoods.

Photos courtesy of Cynthia Kessinger

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department hosts the annual 3R Drive-Thru Event in November. Even though we are social distancing you can show support for College Park and save your used alkaline batteries. For further information including other items to drop off for recycling, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

The 2020-21 Water-Wise Village Challenge has started. Remember that a new pledge must be signed each year to be eligible for the Water Wise Village Challenge. Last year, College Park came in first place by committing to turn sprinklers off from October 15, 2020, through April 15, 2021. Put College Park in first place again and sign up! Remember that hand watering is allowed. Monetary awards from this challenge and the battery recycling are used to fund student scholarships and teacher grants for College Park residents.

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

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Grogan’s Mill

In lieu of a Holiday Lighting contest, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association Board allocates money each year to decorate our village signs for the holidays. Starting soon, you will see the Grogan’s Mill Village signs adorned with decorative garlands for the whole community to enjoy.

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association Board awards a Community Contributor Award to honor and recognize people that contribute to our village. If you know of someone that contributes to our community of Grogan’s Mill Village and you feel deserves the next Community Contributor Award, please send us an email at president@gmva.org. Please let us know who the community contributor is and what they are doing

for our village.

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association continues to oppose any additional groundwater pumping to maintain the water table under The Woodlands. The subsidence monitor to be located at lift station #27 in Lower Grogan’s Point is funded and we should see its installation soon.

With cooler days finally here, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is still offering varied deals on fruits, vegetables, honey, olive oil, crafts, food, and more at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market. The market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon, rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our website at https://www. grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/WoodlandsFarmersMarket. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships, and community programs.

East Shore, Windward Cove and West Isle residents are opposing Howard Hughes Corporation’s (HHC) variance request for a replat on Mitchell Island from 19 (one-acre lots for custom homes) to 58 high-density lots (featuring production track townhouses). These residents have formally presented their concerns to the East Shore HOA; The Grogan’s Mill Village Association; The Woodlands Township Board; and also noticed Congressman Kevin Brady’s Office as well as The Woodlands DSC Board. Further, to date, over 200 of these adversely impacted residents have executed a formal Letter of Opposition and presented it to HHC.

In a nutshell, these Woodlands citizens are adamantly opposed to HHC’s variance request to change the community’s natural landscape and culture from a select few custom homes on Lake Woodlands (Mitchell) Island with tightly controlled standards and

architectural styles, to a significant increase of densely packed, productionbuilt homes that are in direct conflict with the intent and details of a 2012 Amendment to the Initial Land Use Designation Agreement. The residents are concerned about the construction impact and changes in our natural environment through clear cutting, and the creation of new concrete pathways that will adversely impact the nesting and hunting environment of the existing diverse shore bird population as well as the permit-protected, wellknown American Bald Eagle family.

This additional unplanned highdensity construction on the island will exacerbate the impact from three other ongoing high-density projects, creating capacity overload of the community infrastructure: safety, parking, parks, clubhouse and pool. It will also exacerbate drainage during heavy rains and flooding. The HHC Variance Request does not have sufficient details to understand the full extent of the impact on the Island and the adjacent East Shore, Windward Cove and West Isle communities. Aside from the clear adverse environmental impact upon The Woodlands as a whole; the proposed high-density 58 track townhome development will be an architectural eyesore that will forever change our beautiful lake and its dependent wildlife. You are encouraged to visit the Township website under Government, Board of Directors, and contact the Township Board or the Development Standards Committee Members.

Please ask our leaders to ask HHC to work with the East Shore Community to come up with a better solution to the Island Development or go to change.org and sign the petition http://chng.it/GxyL8W2NsH that Chairman Gordy Bunch has organized. In less than two days, the petition garnered over 1,000 signatures. Contact Tami Houston with any questions, at kirkandtami@yahoo.com.

Submitted by Andrew Coakley and Jennifer Robinson

Note: As of press time, HHC has withdrawn their variance request, and public comment meetings have been scheduled with the Development Standards Committee.

Panther Creek

Please join us as we honor the military men and women who have served our nation at The Woodlands Township Veterans Day Tribute on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, at 4:30 p.m. in Town Green Park. A special military Care Package Drop-Off Booth with be set up during the Veterans Day Tribute to accept donations of recommended items. Check the list of items needed on the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ veteransday.

The 3R Drive-Thru Event offers an opportunity to turn that drawer of depleted batteries, Styrofoam™ packaging materials and textiles into dollars for the Panther Creek scholarship fund. Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 14, 2020, and check www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/3Rbazaar for details.

Join us to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season at Lighting of the Doves on Saturday, November 21, 2020, at 7 p.m. in Town Green Park. Check this issue for other events and remember that many may require masks and social distancing.

Our village is not just an area on a map, but it is so much more. We are a community. Only with your participation does this community prosper and grow as each and every resident of our community contributes and benefits. Panther Creek Village Association is always here to help with community issues and with information about the wonderful opportunities that you have to participate in keeping The Woodlands a “real hometown” for you and your family. Visit us online at www. panthercreekvillage.org or on Facebook.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Winter Cheer Abounds at Township Holiday Activities

By Mark Lazenby

Families will find plenty of fun this holiday season with The Woodlands Township! Choose from a variety of activities guaranteed to get the entire family into the holiday spirit, including Flashlight Candy Cane Hunts, Let It Snow Bingo Night, Gingerbread House Making, Feliz Navi-Dog, Elves and Arrows, and Holiday Classic Movie Night. Don’t miss our new event: “Tees The Season” Holiday Putt-Putt! Events include supplies for various activities, and all activities have been modified to adhere to local health and safety guidelines. Holiday events sold out quickly in 2019, so please register as soon as possible! Pre-registration is required; registration on event day not permitted.

For information or to secure your spot, please call 281-210-3950 or 281-516-7348 today. Register for activities at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun. View all activities at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/actionguide.

Seasonal Decorations and Lighting

TheWoodlands Township asks residents to remember the following guidelines to remain within The Woodlands Residential Standards for outdoor holiday decorating.

• Winter holiday decorations and lights may be illuminated from November 15 through January 15 of the following year.

• Decorations and lighting may be installed no earlier than October 1 and must be removed by February 1 of the following year.

• All other seasonal decorations may be displayed for a period not to exceed three weeks.

Decorative lighting bulbs must be of a low wattage to not cause an impact to an adjacent property. Strands of lighting should also be limited in scope and not cause an adverse impact to adjacent properties.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/covenants

Recreation Center Contractors

Needed

By Michael Corbett

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department provides a wide variety of programs, camps, lessons, activities and trainings for both residents and non-residents. Regardless of your age or interests, there is something for everyone!

In order to provide relevant, beneficial and diverse programs, The Woodlands Township collaborates with talented individuals in the community to contract with the Township and serve as instructors.

Do you have a knack for teaching and the skills required to teach a community program? Partnering with the Township and becoming a contractor is a great way to engage with the community, share your skills and make a difference! In exchange for a percentage of the registration fees, The Woodlands Township offers contractors administrative support for their classes, facility reservations and marketing. Areas of interest include art, sports, music, dance, fitness, outdoor recreation, photography and dog training.

For more information about becoming a contractor with The Woodlands Township, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and search for the Contractor Reference Guide, call the one of the Recreation Centers at 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950, or email recreation@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Contractor proposal forms can be found online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ 1159/Recreation-Programs

Water Meter Upgrades Underway in The Woodlands

By Bob Dailey

Duringthe next 18 months, crews will be working throughout The Woodlands upgrading existing mechanical meters with a more accurate and enhanced metering system, commonly referred to as an Automated Metering Infrastructure (AMI). The new AMI system will provide daily and hourly water use information and your current monthly details.

After completion of the system upgrade, customers will have access to enhanced services and data through The Woodlands Water WaterSmart portal. You can receive text messages, e-mails or phone call alerts if your water usage indicates a potential leak or abnormal use.

The new system will record and broadcast usage information regularly. From the WaterSmart portal, customers will have access to more frequent and detailed information about their water consumption. The enhanced data will allow customers to have better control over water usage and monthly bills.

In most cases, the installation will take about 30 minutes, and you will have about 15 minutes of interrupted service. Because your water will be turned off temporarily during the process, you may see discolored water or air in the line. Run your cold water for a few moments and this will clear it up. The workers will not have to enter your home. However, if your meter is behind a fence, workers will need access to that property. Old meters, meter boxes and packaging will be recycled.

For information on the meter rollout’s progress and where crews are working, view the interactive maps at www.woodlandswater.org/ami.

The above article was provided by Woodlands Water, www.woodlandswater.org.

Woodlands Water will install upgraded water meters with enhanced capabilities throughout The Woodlands in the coming months.

Photo by Tori Fluellen

Reach Your Wellness Goals at the Township Fitness Rooms

By Logan Downey

Getting

tired of at-home workouts? The Woodlands Township offers affordable fitness memberships with access to a wide range of machine weights, cardio equipment and free weights at two locations for your convenience. Fitness passes can be purchased for daily use or in monthly, 6-month or yearly membership packages. Stop by either Township Recreation Center to reboot your fitness routine!

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

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

COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS

Fitness room users are required to wear a mask on the way to and from the fitness room but are not required to wear them during their workout. Visitors should maintain six feet physical distance from other visitors and wipe down equipment with provided cleaners. Fitness rooms are cleaned every two hours by recreation center staff.

Try Something New

AT RIVA ROW BOAT HOUSE

Throughout 2020, Riva Row Boat House has introduced several new watercraft options to explore Lake Woodlands in style. The new watercrafts have been added to an already impressive inventory, bringing the total number of options now to eight vessels and nearly 100 total boats!

The new additions have been a huge hit with many residents of The Woodlands, and with the cooler weather, now may be the best time of the year to get outside and try something new in your home community. As an added bonus, boating on Lake Woodlands is always a great socially-distanced activity! Riva Row Boat House is open from 9 a.m. to sunset, Thursday to Monday,

and closed Tuesday and Wednesday. During Thanksgiving Week, Riva Row will be open all week except on Thanksgiving Day. Please note, the last boats go out daily one hour before sunset.

Water Bikes arrived last spring and are arguably the best view on the lake, providing a uniquely high profile while pedaling and steering just like a regular bicycle! Riva Row now offers the Single Explorer model by HydroBikes®. The bikes are extremely stable on the water but be sure to pace yourself; a water bike can be quite the workout. Users have taken bikes for cardio exercise or to simply have a great time exploring the lower Waterway and Lake Woodlands at their own pace. Please note that during periods of high winds on Lake Woodlands, less experienced cyclists/ riders may find their ride more intense.

By Erica Dunn

These bikes are for a single rider, with a maximum weight limit of 325 pounds.

Pedal Kayaks – singles and doubles – were introduced in June, and these things are fast! Riva Row now offers the Mirage Compass and Mirage Compass Duo models by Hobie®. They look just like a standard kayak, but they are powered by your legs and steering is done with just one hand. These are a great option for those who want an almost hands-free kayaking experience. Perfect for birding, fishing or a serious leg workout. A back-up paddle is provided if you want to switch it up later. The weight limit for the single is 275 pounds and 550 pounds for the tandem, with a per-seat limit of 275 pounds each, front and back.

Elliptical Stand-Up Paddleboards

(or Elliptical SUPs), our newest amenity, arrived in August. Riva Row now offers the Mirage Eclipse Dura Series by Hobie®. Like a normal SUP, but with pedals on the board and a handlebar to hold for balance, riders use their feet to propel the craft forward and the handlebars have squeeze levers to turn right and left. A back-up paddle is provided if needed. The weight limit for this board is very strictly 200 pounds.

Pedal Kayak

Water Bike

Photos by Erica Dunn

RIVA ROW BOAT HOUSE RENTAL PRICE LIST

Single Kayak $15 for first hour

Tandem Kayak ....................... $20 for first hour

NEW! Pedal Single Kayak $25 for first hour

NEW! Pedal Tandem Kayak $30 for first hour

Stand-Up Paddleboard ........... $20 for first hour

NEW! Elliptical Paddleboard $30 for first hour

Swan Pedal Boats ................... $25 for first hour

NEW! Water Bike $25 for first hour

Each additional hour, per boat, is $5 more. Lifejackets and paddles included.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/rivarowboathouse, or call 281-210-3965 for more information.

Elliptical Paddleboard

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Holiday Shopping Safety

By Holly Steinke

It’shard to believe, but it’s already time to think about the holidays! The Woodlands has many wonderful shopping venues, and most of us have the option of shopping online as well. For those of you who want to purchase gifts in person, these tips may help keep you safe.

Before you go out, think about what you might want to purchase. It helps our local stores and employees when you shop local. Sales tax from local stores and online purchases go to the state and eventually to the city or special purpose district where the business or online purchaser is located. The sales tax received by The Woodlands Township goes toward the budget for The Woodlands Township’s services and amenities, including supplemental law enforcement to help keep you safe!

When heading to the store, leave valuables at home and only take what you will need for shopping. Try to shop during daylight hours and go with a friend or family member when possible. Park near the store and try to have a visible spot. At night, try to park in a well-lit area. Lock your doors and set your alarm. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Next, enjoy your shopping! Locate your potential gifts and make your purchases. Safeguard your purse or wallet. Use credit cards, rather than checks or debit cards, since there are more protections for you if someone uses your card or number illegally.

When returning to your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings. If you don’t feel safe, return to the store and ask for assistance. Call 9-1-1 if there is a crime in progress or call your local law enforcement’s non-emergency line for any suspicious activity. Once your vehicle is unlocked, get safely inside and lock your doors. If you are going back into the store or mall, hide your packages and drive to a different parking place first to help prevent a “bad actor” from knowing that you have packages in your vehicle.

If stopping at a restaurant or another shopping center on the way home, be sure those packages are hidden out of sight before you leave the car!

For shopping online, use known websites to avoid trouble with protecting your identity, credit card charges or product delivery. Keep your computers and devices up to date with the latest software patches and security. If it’s an

unfamiliar site, ask friends and family, or check online for reviews. Carefully read the description of the item and be aware of the return policy before ordering from a secure site. Keep track of your orders and charges, and quickly report product, delivery or billing issues to the company. If necessary, contact your credit card company to reverse the charges when you didn’t receive the item you ordered or if there is fraudulent activity on your account.

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, email neighbor@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, like and follow on Facebook at www.facebook. com/townshipneighborhoodwatch or call 281-210-3800.

By Zoe Killian

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agent

Claude Hunter

Cub Scout Pack 403

Molly, Fritz and Pickles

Steve and Judy Easton

Sullivan Family

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Boy Scout Troop 772

Gonzalez Family

Rhoad Family

Roger Howard

The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

TownshipFuture

COLLEGE PARK

Bay Chapel Ct Bandits

CREEKSIDE PARK

Benedict Family

Green Corners Duo

Hawkins Family

Samaia Family

Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL

Grogan’s Mill Village Association

Scott Marzano

INDIAN SPRINGS

Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III

Ellison Family

Schapiro Family

Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK

Barnes Family

Clayton & Diane

Grimes-Hanlin Family

Gunden Schmucker Family

Klein Family

STERLING RIDGE

Charles and Donna Moseley

Devitt Family

NCL Texas Laurels

Rohm Home

Slocum Family

RESEARCH FOREST

Houston Advanced Research Center

TOWN CENTER

American Legion Post 305

Fast Facts

• The Great Egret is the second-largest heron in North America, next to the Great Blue Heron.

• Also known as the white heron or common egret, the Great Egret is the symbol of the National Audubon Society, which was founded to protect bird populations.

• Great Egrets were decimated by plume hunters in the late 1800s; their populations plunged by 95 percent. Legal protection has resulted in a remarkable comeback.

What do they look like?

Great Egrets are all white with black legs and a yellow bill. These tall birds weigh only two pounds despite reaching a height of 41 inches with a wingspan of 55 inches. During breeding season (late December to early July), the patch of skin on the Great Egret’s face turns lime green and long plumes, called aigrettes, grow down the back.

What do they eat?

Great Egrets consume mostly fish, but will also eat crustaceans, frogs, lizards, snakes and insects. They hunt in shallow water, impaling their prey with their long, sharp beaks.

What eats them?

Great Egrets have no real predators as adults. Most would-be predators avoid such a large bird. However, raccoons, hawks, owls and snakes raid their nests for eggs and chicks.

Why do we need them?

Great Egrets play an important role in balancing aquatic and riparian (riverbank) ecosystems by controlling amphibian, insect and small mammal populations.

Want to learn more?

Within The Woodlands, Great Egrets have at times created large nesting sites in residential areas. Abandoned nests can be removed to deter egrets from nesting in your trees, but active nests are protected by the Federal Migratory Birds Treaty Act and cannot be removed. Learn how to effectively and legally address nesting egrets by visiting the Wildlife Section of the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment

DaddyDinnerDaughterDance

DustBy Erin Cranston

off those bell-bottoms and bust out those platform shoes. It’s time to get down at the 22nd Annual Daddy Daughter Dinner Dance! Groove with us like it’s the 1970s on Saturday, February 13, 2021, from 6 to 9 p.m. New this year, the Saturday Night Fever-themed bash will be held at The Westin at The Woodlands, 2 Waterway Square Place, The Woodlands, TX 77380. As always, photographers will be on hand to capture every far-out moment.

Registration is open now with tickets starting at $70 per person. Prices increase after November 30, 2020. Register by phone or in person at either Township Recreation Center: The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX, 77389; 281-516-7348 or The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX, 77381; 281-210-3950.

The little ladies will receive a special gift and every dad will remember this special event forever! Tickets go quickly, so purchase yours before they sell out, and remember to inquire about our sibling discount.

Boogie into the ‘70s at the 22nd Annual Daddy Daughter Dinner Dance on Saturday, February 13, 2021! Registration opens on Monday, November 16, 2020.

Online

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 its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2020. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

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A SLIPPERY FLOOR BURSTS YOUR BUBBLE?

Our ERs are ready for whatever, whenever.

With convenient locations across the Greater Houston area, trusted emergency care, and a safe environment, our ERs are ready 24/7, every day of the year. Because when an emergency happens, your health is too important to wait.