November 2013

Kick off your holiday season with the 31st Annual Lighting of the Doves Festival featuring the arrival of Santa Claus, live music, kids’ activities, fireworks and much more! The festival is produced in conjunction with the annual International Winter On The Waterway (iWOW) which adds an international flavor to holiday celebrations in The Woodlands. Please see the Holiday RoundUp on pages 6 and 7 for more information about holiday events and activities. Cover photo cropped from an image by Derrick Bryant.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

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

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (Water)

Montgomery County M.U.D.S., 281-367-1271

Harris County M.U.D. 386, 281-290-6500

Emergency 911

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Woodlands Township, along with local, state and federal elected officials, will hold a special celebration to honor military veterans of The Woodlands in conjunction with Veterans Day at Town Green Park on Monday, November 11, 2013, at 1:30 p.m.

The Veterans Day event will pay tribute to military veterans who have returned home to The Woodlands recently, as well as those who have served our country in years past. The event will honor all branches of service and recognize their sacrifices made while serving the United States of America.

Don’t forget to vote in The Woodlands Township Election, November 5, 2013. Please see page 8 for more information.

Gordy Bunch

Position No. 1 Treasurer

Don Norrell President and General Manager

Mike Bass Position No. 2 Director

Jeff Long Position No. 3 Director

Nelda Blair Position No. 5 Director

Bruce Tough

Position No. 7 Chairman

Peggy Hausman

Position No. 6 Vice Chairman

Ed Robb

Position No. 4 Secretary

Creative

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The holiday season in The Woodlands is always a cheerful and busy time; and this year will be no exception!

Holiday RoundUp

From activities for the whole family, to day camps and events just for kids, there is plenty of holiday fun for everyone.

Kids’ Night Out!

This new program at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center is for four- to 10-year-olds and runs from 6 -10 p.m. on the second Friday of the month. Busy parents can drop their children off and have just enough time to do a little shopping or get a bite to eat. Children play games, make crafts and enjoy themed activities. Dinner is included in the cost of $20 per child, with a discount of $5 for siblings. Kids’ Night Out takes place twice during the holiday season, November 8 and December 13, 2013. For more information, please call 281-210-3950.

Sunny Dayz Drop-In Camps

Parents of school-aged children need not worry about ho-hum holidays! Sunny Dayz Drop-In Camps keep six- to 12-yearolds busy, not bored. The two holiday sessions are packed with timely themes such as “Gobble, Gobble ‘til You Wobble” and “Candy Cane Factory.” Children can attend Sunny Dayz Drop-In Camps for just one day or all days of each session. The camps run from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, 5310 Research Forest Drive, The

Woodlands, 77381. The first session is November 25 - 27 and the second is on December 23, 24, 26-31 and January 3. The cost is $50 per day, per child with a $15 per day sibling discount. Sign up for all days of a session and get a $25 discount!

Please see page four of the Action Guide, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide, for details or call 281-210-3950.

Celebrate the Holidays Events

Can Santa paddle a kayak? Find out on December 14, 2013! Children love celebrating the holidays with their parents at special events such as “Christmas in a Kayak” and “Breakfast with Santa.”

Most of these popular holiday events take place at The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park. (“Christmas in a Kayak” takes place at Riva Row Boat House). These events are very popular and require registration, so be sure to sign up early! The cost and ages vary.

Please see page three of the Action Guide, www. thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/actionguide, for more details!

In addition to the many Township events and programs, The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau offers these wonderful holiday traditions:

31st Annual Lighting of the Doves and iWOW

Lighting of the Doves and International Winter on the Waterway (iWOW) kick off the 2013 holiday season in The Woodlands on November 23, 2013, from 3 to 9 p.m. At this free event, families can try a snow slide, inflatables, bubble runners, and arts and crafts. The live entertainment includes balloon artists, strolling entertainers and a fireworks display. The celebration features a grand appearance by Santa, aboard

For more about holiday events produced by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors

a decorated sleigh on The Woodlands Waterway®. The Lighting of the Doves is held at Town Green Park, 2099 Lake Robbins Drive and iWOW is located along The Woodlands Waterway® adjacent to the park. Visit www.LightingoftheDoves.com and www.iWOWinTheWoodlands.com for more information.

Caroling on the Square

When it’s time to unwind, families can gather at Waterway Square for Caroling on the Square. This free festive event features live caroling groups. The carolers perform on Saturday, December 7, 14, and 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. Be sure to bring the children for Santa’s special appearances on December 7 and 21. For more information, please visit

www.thewoodlandscvb.com/pages/ TWCVBEvents/CarolingontheSquare.

The Ice Rink and Winter Wonderland

Another must-see in The Woodlands is the Donoho’s Jewellers Winter Wonderland. Stroll through a fantasyland of magical lighted toy soldiers, elves, doves, musical angels and snowmen from dusk until 11 p.m. Surrounding The Woodlands Ice Rink, the colorful light display opens to the public on Saturday, November 23, 2013, and closes on Monday, January 20, 2014.

The Ice Rink also returns to The Woodlands this year! Located at the northeast corner of Lake Robbins and Six Pines Drive, it is the largest seasonal ice rink in the Southwest. The Ice Rink opens daily from Saturday, November 23, 2013 until Monday, January 20, 2014. A special preview opening of The Ice Rink takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 16 and 17, 2013. Special offers and coupons are available on The Ice Rink Web site at www.TheWoodlandsIceRink.com.

& Decorating The Woodlands 2013 Holiday Lighting CONTEST

Join in the fun of the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest! Each village association coordinates their own contest, including dates and publicity, with support from The Woodlands Township and The Woodlands Fire Department.

There are usually two categories: Best Home in the village and Best Neighborhood in the village. A neighborhood is broadly defined as a few homes located in close proximity, or an entire cul-de-sac or subdivision. Best Home prizes include a yard sign and plaque. A yard sign and Ice Rink passes will be awarded to Best Neighborhood. Members of each village association serve as contest judges. Selection of winners is left to the sole discretion of the judges. Please check your village association’s Web site for more details about your respective village

11th Annual Junior League Holiday Market 2013

Amidst the events of the holidays, save plenty of time for shopping at the Junior League’s Holiday Market located at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, 1601 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380. Presented by the Junior League of North Harris and South Montgomery Counties, Inc., this event is a Woodlands shopping favorite! This year, the Market features more than 100 unique merchants from across the country. An assortment of specialty holiday items including home accessories, clothing, gourmet foods and jewelry are available. The Junior League’s Holiday Market opens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on November 15 and 16, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 17, 2013. Tickets are $12 per person, per day for the Market. For more information, please see www.JLHolidayMarket.org.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP Board of Directors Election

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Candidates in Ballot Order

Three at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2013 election, designated as positions 5, 6, 7. Each office carries a two-year term and all three positions are elected at large by voters in The Woodlands Township in both Montgomery and Harris Counties. Ballot positions for candidates who filed are as follows:

Position 5: John P. McMullan and Jason Rocha;

Position 6: Peggy S. Hausman; Position 7: Bruce Tough

Voting Eligibility

To vote in The Woodlands Township election, you must be a registered voter in the county of your residence and a resident of The Woodlands Township.

Election Day: Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Voting Hours for All Polling Locations: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Montgomery County Consolidated Precinct Polling Locations

Precincts 3, 6, 71, 78, 81

Galatas Elementary School 9001 Cochran’s Crossing Drive

The Woodlands 77381

Precincts 31, 56, 59, 69, 70, 75

Windsor Hills Homeowners’ Association Club House

One Windsor Hills Circle

The Woodlands 77384

Precincts 33, 48, 49, 58, 62

South County Community Building

2235 Lake Robbins Drive

The Woodlands 77380

Precincts 4, 32, 45, 61, 67, 79, 84

Wilkerson Intermediate School 12312 Sawmill Road

The Woodlands 77380

Harris County (Village of Creekside Park) Precinct Polling Locations

Precincts 735

Zwink Elementary School 22200 Frassati Way

Spring 77389

Precincts 914, 1029

Creekside Forest Elementary School 5949 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands 77389

Township Lifeguards Honored for Heroic and Outstanding Efforts

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently honored the heroic and outstanding efforts of several Township lifeguards. Chairman Bruce Tough recognized the Township’s award-winning lifeguards as well as the team that performed a recent save at Sawmill Pool that included Luke Falcon, Austin Emery, Jade Brown, Sarah Cruthirds and Connor Gallagher. “We are so very proud of you and thank you so much,” Chairman Tough said as he addressed the group.

A number of Woodlands Township lifeguards recently attended three competitions, bringing home a variety of top place finishes. At the North Texas Guard Games, a regional competition designed to challenge area lifeguards in the skills they need every day, a Township team finished in first place out of 30 competing teams. The competition included spinal victim rescue, passive victim rescue, CPR and first aid. The first-place team consisted of Cody Due, Zack Makiewicz, Caroline Pierce and Paige Oliver.

The winning continued as Township teams took first and third place at the Texas Superguard Competition. The first-place team consisted of Ana Forero, Cole Pilgrim, Kelsey Hull and Cody Due. The third-place team consisted of Andrew Novak, Elyssa Johnson, Cody Gambino and Amanda Van Cleve. In addition, Cranebrook Lifeguard Chris Carr placed first overall for male competitors. And finally, at the Texas Guard Shootout, Township teams finished in first and third place out of 12 teams competing. The first-place team consisted of Jason Duance, Jackson Greenwade, Emilie Lostraco and Catherine Laughlin. The third place team consisted of Dustin Bassett, Kurt Doerries, Mary Margavio and Taylor Moss.

Township Swimmers Receive Top Honors in National Competition

Photo by Susan Schneider

Eachyear, The Woodlands Township qualifies a group of swimmers to compete in the national State Games of America. Only qualifying winners from individual State Games are eligible to compete in the biennial Olympicstyle event featuring more than 30 sports.

The Township qualified 48 swimmers, and 12 went on to compete in the event that took place in Pennsylvania’s Hershey Harrisburg Region from July 30 to August 4, 2013. The boys 13- and 14-year-old Medley and Freestyle Relays took first place and broke their best times. The girls 7- and 8-year-old Freestyle Relay took second place and achieved their personal best times. Additionally, four swimmers took third place in various other categories and achieved their personal best times, and every swimmer placed in the top 10.

Receiving highest honors were swimmers Jack Herdejurgen and Karina Huler, who were named Athletes of the Year for 2013.

For more information on The Woodlands Township swim teams, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/swimteams.

Township swimmers participated in opening ceremonies at the National State Games. Pictured, front row, left to right, Aaron Chu, Sarah Lane , Richard Monks, Hailey Rees, Ethan Triem, Evan Rees and Max Oberg. Back row, left to right, Karina Hulet, Lindsay Cordier, Jack Herdejurgen and Nicholas Monks. Not pictured: John Luetner.

The Board of Directors recognized Township Lifeguards, Luke Falcon, center, Jade Brown, left, and Sarah Cruthirds, right, for their recent success in saving the life of a young swimmer at Sawmill Pool. Township Board members, left to right, are Peggy Hausman, Ed Robb, Mike Bass, Gordy Bunch, Bruce Tough and Jeff Long.

The Board of Directors recognized Township Lifeguards for their achievement at local and state lifeguard competitions. Pictured, left to right, kneeling, are Chris Carr, Kurt Doerries, Jason Duance; standing, left to right, are Cody Gambino, Paige Oliver and Caroline Pierce. Board members, left to right, are Ed Robb, Peggy Hausman, Mike Bass, Gordy Bunch, Bruce Tough and Jeff Long.

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It’s Easy to

at the 3R Bazaar!

By Lucinda Valdes

Reduce…reuse…recycle…rebuy!

The Woodlands Township celebrates America Recycles Day with the 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, 77381. Everything from toys to totes can be found at the Bazaar, and all from recycled materials.

An opportunity for recycling unique commodities not accepted curbside, 3R Bazaar recycles more! This year’s event focuses on plastic film and alkaline batteries along with the annual collection of plastic caps, corks and polystyrene foam packaging.

“Plastic bags and films do not belong in the recycling cart! For one day only, we will recycle this very usable commodity and reveal the options that exist in the community every day,” noted Lynne Aldrich, manager of environmental services for The Woodlands Township.

A competition to collect the most caps and corks will determine which Village is Tops in Recycling. According

to Ms. Aldrich, “The friendly rivalry among the villages increased recycling of caps by 350 percent last year. Kids organized neighborhood collections, the villages were all active, even churches and businesses got involved.” Cork recycling will benefit Christus Stehlin Foundation for Cancer Research, while donations collected at Shred Day will support Interfaith Food Pantry.

Discover more recycling solutions offered by Best Buy, other local businesses and charitable organizations. Donate eyeglasses to Lions Club or usable clothing and shoes to the Salvation Army. Demonstrating that nothing need go to waste, this year’s event features Shred Day and the Buy Recycled Boutique. Crafters are super recyclers, repurposing discards into decorative items and wearable art. Explore the possibilities with Loela Barry at From Waste to Wow Bring an old T-shirt and create a fashion accessory at the No-Sew Boutique

A trunk show of innovative and trendy gift items, the Buy Recycled Boutique features products created from recycled or sustainable materials. Gleaned from studios of artisans and small manufacturers, every product has a story. From Green Toys™ to jewelry, view the lines from favorite manufacturers.

The 3R Bazaar, a How Green is Your Village? event, is brought you by The Woodlands Township with sponsorship from The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., The Woodlands Development Company, H-E-B, Americas Styrenics, Waste Management, Hilton Garden Inn and Shred-All Texas.

Photo courtesy of Loela Barry

Photo by Jon Krenytzky

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Texas Children’s Health Centers along with Texas Children’s Pediatrics offer your family convenient access to exper t pediatricians as well as subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic ser vices. We also partner with St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to offer newborn care from Texas Children’s specialists.

So when your child needs to see a doctor, c o m e o n ove r. We ’re r i g h t h e re i n T h e Woodlands, ready to lend a helping hand.

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

Texas Children’s Health Center – The Woodlands 17198 St. Luke’s Way, Suite 300

The Woodlands, TX 77384 936-321-0808

Your Neighborhood Cul-de-sac WhatDoToWith

The Woodlands has hundreds of culde-sacs. The very largest ones (3,400 square feet and larger) are kept up by The Woodlands Township as a part of overall community green-space maintenance, while the rest are the responsibility of each street and neighborhood homeowners.

Residents of Harmony Arbor Court cul-de-sac in the Sandalbranch neighborhood of Alden Bridge (pictured above) are the proud winners of the Best Cul-de-sac Award given out by the Alden Bridge Village Association. The cul-de-sac has evolved over many years of efforts from neighbors. Current residents decided to make their cul-de-sac the centerpiece of their street.

“We wanted to make it something of beauty that we could all enjoy,” said resident Yng Yng Lau-Layton. “And as it turned out, it became a fun neighborhood project that we all take pride in. The kids play there, adults meet for coffee - it is wonderful! We wanted to have a place for adults to enjoy each other’s company and a place for children to play while enjoying nature. We especially wanted to enjoy the camaraderie of the team effort and the sense of community to make the cul-desac thrive. And after the drought about two years ago in Texas, our little cul-de-sac needed help. We came up with a vision and made a plan for an inviting and natural landscape design that had potential. We

are not master gardeners, but we just plowed in and gave it a whirl. We stayed consistent and owned the responsibility. Neighbors helped when they could. One teenager who is in Boy Scout Troop 772 volunteered his time in moving dirt, mulch and planted flowers on more than one occasion.”

The children painted rocks to create a beautiful rock garden where each has ownership in the cul-de-sac. The children play tic-tac-toe with painted rocks on large stumps that double for seating. The stumps were donated by a Harmony Arbor Court family whose pine tree was struck by lightning and the tree was recycled as nature’s resting place.

The group feels very fortunate to have a friendly street of neighbors where a couple of times a year they gather together for a potluck dinner outdoors near the cul-de-sac to catch up with busy families.

“This reflects the kind of community spirit that defines The Woodlands,” said The Woodlands Township Board Chairman Bruce Tough. “We congratulate and thank Harmony Arbor residents for their initiative and hard work. I urge all other cul-de-sac residents in The Woodlands to learn from this example and roll up their sleeves to help make The Woodlands even more beautiful.”

Photos by Steve Leakey

By Alden Bridge residents Steve Leakey, Kathy Wojtczak and Yng Yng Lau-Layton

november

Friday, November 1

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

Saturday, November 2

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

FREE Composting Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

10 to 11 a.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, November 4

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Wednesday, November 6 Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, November 7

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, November 8

Kids’ Night Out 6 to 10 p.m.

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive

$20 per child, discount for siblings

Saturday, November 9

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

3R Bazaar

Observing America Recycles Day 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

18th Annual Children’s Festival

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ticket required

Sunday, November 10

18th Annual Children’s Festival

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Noon to 5 p.m.

Ticket required

Monday, November 11

Veterans Day

The Woodlands Township Veterans Day Tribute Town Green Park 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 12

Heartsaver CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Fire Department Central Station 9951 Grogans Mill Rd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, November 13

Law Enforcement Advisory Council Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

A male bluebird is perched on his nestbox. To find out more about bluebirds, see page 20.

Photo by Anita Wren

Thursday, November 14

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture

Attracting Bluebirds to Your Garden

McCullough Junior High School

3800 S. Panther Creek Drive

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, November 15

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 pm

281-210-3950

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

Saturday, November 16

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

The Ice Rink Preview Opening

Corner of Six Pines Drive and Lake Robbins Drive

10 a.m. to 11p.m.

www.TheWoodlandsIceRink.com

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Sunday, November 17

The Ice Rink Preview Opening

Corner of Six Pines Drive and Lake Robbins Drive

Noon to 7 p.m.

www.TheWoodlandsIceRink.com

Monday, November 18

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, November 19

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Wednesday, November 20

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, November 23

Donoho’s Jewellers Winter

Wonderland Season Opening

Corner of Six Pines Drive and Lake Robbins Drive

Dusk to 11 p.m.

www.TheWoodlandsWinterWonderland.com

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

The Ice Rink Season Opening

Corner of Six Pines Drive and Lake Robbins Drive

10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

www.TheWoodlandsIceRink.com

Lighting of the Doves

Town Green Park

3 to 9 p.m.

www.LightingoftheDoves.com

iWOW (International Winter on the Waterway®)

The Woodlands Waterway®

3 to 9 p.m.

www.iWOWinTheWoodlands.com

Monday, November 25

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Holiday Garbage Collection Schedule

There will be no waste collection service on Thursday, November 28, 2013, in observance of Thanksgiving. Waste collection will be moved to the day following the regular service day. All services are affected. Please refer to the chart below.

Regular Collection

Thursday, November 28

Friday, November 29

Holiday Collection

Friday, November 29

Saturday, November 30

Normal schedule will resume Monday, December 2, 2013.

Tuesday, November 26

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-5820 ext. 1731

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Thursday, November 28

Thanksgiving Day

Township offices closed. No recycling or trash service.

Run Thru The Woods

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 7:45 a.m.

281-367-9622

Friday, November 29

Township offices closed.

Saturday, November 30

Grogan’s Mill Farmers’ Market Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

www.grogansmillvillage.com

*Please visit the calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for listings, or call the office at 281-210-3800.

PLEASE REMEMBER

The Woodlands Covenants require that trash and recycling carts must be stored out of public view. Leaving trash carts out longer than necessary detracts from the curb appeal of neighborhoods and becomes an eyesore. Trash and recycling receptacles may be placed at the curb on the day prior to trash pickup and should be removed from the curb by the end of the day of trash pickup.

www.metroministorage.net

Village Associations Pay Tribute to George Mitchell

ALDEN BRIDGE

• COCHRAN’S CROSSING • COLLEGE PARK • CREEKSIDE PARK • GROGAN’S MILL • INDIAN SPRINGS • PANTHER CREEK • STERLING RIDGE

As Thanksgiving draws near, The Woodlands Village Associations are thankful for Mr. Mitchell’s tremendous vision, work and creation that we all enjoy today as residents of The Woodlands, Texas.

The Indian Springs Village Association is thankful for many things, not the least of which is the beautiful George Mitchell Preserve located in the heart of our village.

In July 1983, the formal opening of Cochran’s Crossing, the third residential village built in The Woodlands, was attended by Roger Galatas, Bill Cochran, Rev. Don Gebert, Ed Lee, Montgomery County Commissioner Weldon Locke, George Mitchell, State Representative Jim Turner and Montgomery County Judge Jimmy Edwards.

Photo courtesy of The Woodlands Operating Company, LP/Ted Washington.

A memorial tribute hosted by The Mitchell Family and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, with special thanks to The Woodlands Development Company, honored George P. Mitchell in August and was attended by many village representatives. This event was open to everyone who wished to share in celebrating Mitchell’s life and accomplishments. Event photos submitted by Mike Marzano. Center photo of Mr. Mitchell courtesy of the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Cochran’s Crossing

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association’s Fall Festival was held October 20 at Shadowbend Park. The free event included pony rides and a petting zoo, bouncy inflatables, and many games. Kroger provided food and water. PhysiciansER staffed a first aid station, and the Rotary Interact Clubs from The Woodlands and College Park High Schools helped with the games.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

Creekside Park

Holiday Lighting & Decorating Contest: It’s a great time to start preparing for the annual Holiday Lighting & Decorating Contest. There is no registration or entry requirement; Creekside Park residents simply display their lights and/or decorations during the dates of Thursday, December 12 through Tuesday, December 17. There are two categories: Best Home and Best Neighborhood. Prizes will be awarded on Wednesday, December 18. For more information regarding the details and prizes, please visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com.

Save The Date: The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association will present the Fifth Annual Chili Cook-Off and Winter Festival on Saturday, December 7, 2013, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lodge at Rob Fleming Park. There will be fun for the whole family including a chili cook-off, giant snow sledding hill, face painting, kids crafts, snowman building contest, bounce house, train rides and much more. The association will also present the Third Annual “Chilly” Chili One-Mile Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, December 7, at 1:30 p.m. at Rob Fleming Park. To register please visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com.

Participate: Monthly association meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. Meetings are held at the Creekside YMCA Lodge making it more convenient for residents to attend and participate. Visit www.creeksideparkvillage.com for all of the latest news and event information.

Submitted by Nancy Decker Lent

Panther Creek

Panther Creek is indeed the party place. Year after year we have held the most neighborhood National Night Out block parties, and this year was no exception. Longtime neighbors and new arrivals alike came out to put a bite on crime and to share the spirit that truly makes our community in The Woodlands, a real hometown. Neighborhood coordinators and Neighborhood Watch leaders planned and held block parties with food, games and valuable information. The evening presented opportunities to share ideas on ways to enhance the neighbor-to-neighbor communications that are the first line of defense against crime. A special thanks goes to the Montgomery County Constables and Sheriff’s deputies who visited the parties to help make community policing a reality.

Panther Creek residents also enjoyed the annual trip to Houston to watch the Astros play the New York Yankees. The party began as we boarded reserved buses at the Panther Creek Shopping Center for our cool and carefree ride to the game. No parking, gas or traffic worries – they were all taken care of in the ticket price. Mary Bootz, once again, did a marvelous job of arranging all the details of the trip, game and ticket sales. Put this fun event on your calendar for next year, and join in the fun.

Panther Creek also was the major participant in hosting the Fall Flea Market in October. If you went, you know that the bargains were terrific. If you missed it, watch for the Spring Flea Market and join the fun.

Your Panther Creek Village Association meets the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township building at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd, at 7 p.m. All residents are welcome. If you moved to The Woodlands to be part of a real hometown, your village association is one of the best places to get involved. Show up, share your ideas and issues, and get help in solving neighborhood problems. Visit us anytime at www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org. Find out who your area representatives are. They are here to serve you.

MEETING INFORMATION

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

ALDEN BRIDGE

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

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

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

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

COLLEGE PARK

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

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

CREEKSIDE PARK

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

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Nancy Decker Lent at 617-721-6939.

Please see page 16, November 4 entry.

GROGAN’S MILL

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

Questions? Contact your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association

President George van Horn at president@gmva.org.

INDIAN SPRINGS

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

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

PANTHER CREEK

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

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

STERLING RIDGE

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

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Anthony Fasone at 281-419-9331.

Charm of Bluebirds

By Lucinda Valdes

Enjoy

a close-up view of bluebirds with Linda Crum at Attracting Bluebirds to Your Garden on Thursday, November 14, 2013, at 7:30 p.m. in the L.G.I. Lecture Hall at McCullough Junior High School, 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive, 77381.

Vibrant blue social charmers, bluebirds have captured the heart and imagination of the state and Mrs. Crum in particular. A birding enthusiast, Texas Master Naturalist and board member of the Texas Bluebird Society, she has inspired hundreds of homeowners to add bluebird nestboxes to their landscape.

Nestboxes are playing a vital role in the recovery of the vibrant bluebird, formerly in serious decline. Unlike most songbirds, bluebirds do not build nests in treetops. “They nest in a cavity,” Mrs. Crum explains, “and bluebirds can not excavate their own cavity.” Historically, bluebirds relied on abandoned sites created by woodpeckers or natural decay in trees and cedar fence posts.

The rewards of adding a nestbox to the home landscape are many. In addition to being pretty, “Bluebirds seem to form some type of relationship with humans,” according to Mrs. Crum. Courtship, nest building and rearing of young are easily observed. “When I whistle, they answer,” she says.

Featuring beautiful photography of the life stages and habits of bluebirds, the free program is a Walk in the Woods Nature Lecture organized by The Woodlands Township with sponsorship from The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Waste Management and Hilton Garden Inn. For more information, please call The Woodlands Township Environmental Services office at 281-210-3800, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Nestboxes will be available, while supplies last, with a $15 membership to the Texas Bluebird Society.

Linda Crum prepares a nestbox for its next occupant.

JUST DO ONE THING

By Lou Ann Montana

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

Thismonth, The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team (twcert.com) brings you the Do One Thing (do1thing.com) topic for November – Emergency Supplies. Created by a team of professionals with extensive experience in emergency management, Do One Thing is a 12-month preparedness program that focuses on different areas of emergency preparedness each month. You can jump in anytime, and you don’t have to do things in any order. It’s as easy as:

1. Read each month’s topic.

2. Select one of the easy “Things to do.”

3. Do that one thing!

This month, make sure to remember important items that may be overlooked when leaving your home during a disaster. Any emergency is easier to handle when you have prepared ahead of time. Put together an emergency kit with important items to keep at home, and a to-go bag with items you will need to take with you if you evacuate. Think about what you and your family would need in a disaster. You can make kits for your home, car or workplace. Emergencies can happen anywhere.

When severe weather is predicted, make sure your car has a full tank of gas.

You don’t want to wait in line for gas if you are told to evacuate. Some storms may also knock out electricity, causing gas stations to close. Choose one of the following things to do this month to become better prepared.

Gather your emergency supplies in an accessible place.

Have a to-go bag ready if you have to shelter in place or evacuate your home. Your to-go bag can be part of your emergency kit, just make sure it is in a bag or easy-to-carry container and that it is easy to get to. Think about these items for your bag:

• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Lightweight blankets

• Emergency information, including insurance policies

• A list of medications and correct dosage, and doctor’s names

• Personal items such as toothbrushes, soap, extra glasses, etc.

• First aid kit

• Whistle

• Change of clothing

• Nonperishable snacks

• Books, cards, magazines to pass time

For Infants and Children

• Baby formula and food

• Diapers and wipes

• Blanket or toy

For Medical Conditions

• Empty pill bottle(s) or a list of current medications. Make sure you update your go bag when medications change.

• Your doctor’s phone number

For Pets

• Pet food and water

• Collar with ID tags

• Pet medication(s)

• Pet carriers and leashes

• Medical records from vet

• Photos of your pet

• Microchip information

Create an emergency supply kit for your pet, car and workplace or school. Disasters can strike when you are away from home. If your office or school does not have an emergency kit, offer to help make one. The kit should include:

• First aid supplies

• Flashlights or light sticks

• Building emergency procedures

• Building maps showing evacuation and shelter areas

• Pens or pencils

• “Need Help” and “All Clear” signs

• Clipboard with class/staff names

Make or buy an emergency kit for your car. If you travel with your pet, make sure that you have an emergency kit for them also. Some items for your car kit are: a small first aid kit, flashlight or light sticks, flares or reflective cones, a blanket, cell phone charger, jumper cables, bottled water, nonperishable snacks, and a “help” flag or brightly colored cloth that can be tied to the antenna.

Stash some cash in case ATMs and credit card machines are not usable. Many things that we take for granted are not available when there is no power. ATM machines may not work. Grocery stores and other businesses may not be able to accept your credit or debit card. Cash could be the only acceptable means to make a purchase. Some experts say you should have at minimum $150 in cash stashed away, but any amount is good to start with. Take $1 a week and place it in an envelope in your emergency kit. In no time, you’ll have some cash stashed away for use in emergencies.

Remember, emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. In this column each month, TWCERT will publish a different step to help individuals, families, and businesses to prepare for all hazards, and become disaster resilient. We encourage you to follow the plan throughout the year and to “stay informed & be ready” by following us on the web, Facebook or Twitter for more timely preparedness tips.

Colder Weather Dampens Need to Irrigate Lawns

By Bob Dailey

Mostlawns in The Woodlands consist of St. Augustine grass – a warm-season grass that goes dormant in the fall and winter. The grass starts to turn a little yellow, and the intuitive thing to do is to add more water. In fact, irrigation during the fall and winter has the potential to do more harm than good.

In colder months, St. Augustine requires little or no watering. Soil-borne diseases, such as take-all patch, brown patch and others generally take hold in overwatered lawns during the winter, although the damage is not usually seen until late spring or summer. Additionally, dollar weed and sedges thrive in wet soil during winter, only to create an unsightly mess when they emerge in spring.

Here are some guidelines that residents can use to assure strong healthy lawns:

IRRIGATE: Beginning in October through March, add no or very little water to your lawn. St. Augustine is dormant during the fall and winter. Begin watering every two weeks in April. From May to September, water twice a week in compliance with the Defined Irrigation Schedule now in effect.

MOW: Set mower heights to the highest setting. Mow only once or twice a month during the winter months. In April, mow twice, and then mow every five to seven days through September. Some residents only mow twice a month during the summer months to encourage grass to produce more food for a stronger root system.

COMPOST: Add one-half to three-quarters inch of compost to your lawn every April and October. This will increase the organic material in your soil, promote beneficial microorganisms, and help grow deeper roots.

AERATE: Aerate just before you add compost.

SOD: Best times to sod are March through June. Worst times are August and September.

DETHATCH: Well-maintained St. Augustine does not need dethatching, regardless what anyone tells you. If you feel you absolutely must dethatch, do so only from the middle of April through the middle of June.

It’s time to shut off your lawn irrigation system!

Even though St. Augustine grass may stay green, it goes dormant in the winter. Irrigating your grass through the winter months may cause fungal infections that won’t be evident until late spring or early summer. However, there are some things you can do right now to help your lawn.

1. Have a soil test done. Texas A&M Soil, Water and Forage Laboratory offers soil testing for residents at a nominal price. There are also private companies which offer the same service, also for a fee. Contact Texas Agrilife Extension Service (936-539-7824).

2. Mulch fallen leaves. Instead of raking up leaves, mulch them back into the soil. This will provide nutrients, and will also encourage the growth of beneficial organisms in the soil.

3. Get rid of old debris from plant beds and areas surrounding your home. Chinch bugs overwinter in old organic debris, especially near the house, where heat from the building helps them survive. Replace the old debris with organic mulch.

4. Have your irrigation system tested. The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency offers a free evaluation of your sprinkler system through a licensed and vetted irrigation specialist. Simply visit our website at wjpa.org to request an evaluation. If you need to repair or adjust your system, you can get it completed before spring.

For billing assistance, to report leaks or irrigation system malfunctions, please call us at our new phone number:

Pathway System Safety

Take A Hike, Not a Tumble!

By James Birdwell, Park Ranger Supervisor

Did you know that you can travel from one end of The Woodlands to the other using only the pathway system?

The Woodlands pathways are designed to connect users to individual neighborhoods, parks, schools and retail centers. In addition, the pathways offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors and increase fitness by walking, jogging, skating or cycling. Whether your goal is getting to the grocery store or becoming healthier, keep in mind these basic guidelines of safety and etiquette to ensure your experience on the pathways is an enjoyable one.

The Woodlands pathways are multiuse, which means that users should expect to encounter walkers, joggers, inline skaters, bicyclists, hikers and wheelchairs. Motorized vehicles such as motorized scooters and motorized skateboards are not allowed on the pathways since they can travel at higher speeds than pedestrians and “people-powered” wheeled vehicles can safely negotiate. However, pathway maintenance vehicles are allowed on the pathways, which are cleaned weekly. Park Rangers use motorized vehicles to inspect the paths daily. Rangers’ inspections have a particular focus on pathway safety but also to ensure that contractors are completing their tasks in a professional and timely fashion. Rangers identify maintenance needs such as damaged paths, fallen tree debris and pruning for visibility. To promote a safe environment for all pathway users, the Parks and Recreation Department encourages the following:

• Show courtesy and respect to other pathway users at all times.

• Stay alert! Listen for audible warnings and allow faster pathway users to pass freely. If using earphones, be aware that you won’t be able to hear others approaching.

• Watch out for pathway maintenance vehicles. Only authorized motorized vehicles are permitted on the pathways for maintenance purposes.

• Keep to the right side of the path to make it easier for users to pass on the left. When passing, let your presence be known with a bell, polite cough or friendly greeting.

• Yield to wheelchairs. Wheelchairs always have the right of way.

• Wear white or bright clothing to be more visible.

• Be predictable. Stay straight and watch for other pathway users! Avoid putting yourself or others at risk.

• When using the pathway with a group, go in single file.

• With winding pathways through the trees, bikers and skaters should control their speed especially around pedestrians. Bikers and skaters should wear helmets and protective gear, as well as ensure that their brakes are adjusted and work well.

• When walking your dog, be kind to the environment and other users: please pick up after your dog. All dogs should be on a leash that is no more than 10 feet long.

• Be conscious of stop signs and cautionary stenciling at intersections.

• As always, if you encounter an issue on the pathways or have a concern, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 281-210-3800.

BICYCLISTS and SKATERS

• Ride at a safe speed.

• Give audible warnings when passing pathway users.

• Helmets and protective gear are recommended.

• Ride or blade straight ahead.

The Woodlands pathway system is one of the community’s highest-rated amenities. Employing caution, courtesy and common sense will enhance your experience on the pathways and that of other users. Common courtesy is contagious – for safety’s sake, it’s worth catching!

dsolv starter kit

Get a free dsolv starter kit at the 3R Bazaar, Saturday, November 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. while supplies last.

These certified compostable bags make handling your extra leaves easy for curbside pick-up! Ditch those annoying paper bags forever! The starter kit includes a spring-loaded sleeve, ergonomic carrying handle and eight dsolv bags. These items are all packed in a durable pouch, handy for storage between uses. Call 281-210-3800 for more information, or visit dsolvbag.com. See page 12 for more information on the 3R Bazaar.

Change in Your Mailing Address?

Go to The Woodlands Township Web site and submit a Service Request to the Real Estate Property Records Department. Include your name, Woodlands property address and your new mailing address. Submitting your new address information will keep the Township records up to date in the event that the Township needs to contact you.

Active on the Pathways

Counting Our Blessings

By Kathie Gilmore Herrick

ALDEN BRIDGE: Alison Loughlin; Real Estate Agent; Bredehoft Family; Cub Scout Pack 772, Dens 1, 5, 18; Cub Scout Pack 886; Cub Scout Pack 889; St. Anne’s Society; Steve and Judy Easton; Vizzari Family; Walters Family; Weaver Family

COCHRAN’S CROSSING: Cochran’s Crossing Crew, Creighton Family, Kimmel Family, LSC-Montgomery Mavericks, Ray Yepes, Robert and Nancy Rodd, Roger Howard, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., TWHS Science National Honor Society, Woodlands Landscaping, Wyatt Hall for Woodlands Christian Academy

COLLEGE PARK: Bay Chapel Ct. Bandits, Sohn-Yim Family

GROGAN’S MILL: Caveney Family, Gary Jackson, Montgomery Co. Area School at Home M.A.S.H., Myers Family

INDIAN SPRINGS: Andra Wilcox & Richard Nieto III, Cosculluela Family, Woodlands India Association

PANTHER CREEK: Grimes-Hanlin Family, Klein Family, Lord of Life Lutheran Church

STERLING RIDGE: Charles and Donna Moseley, Resident of Player Manor, Slocum Family, Stockhausen Family, Texas Laurels NCL

RESEARCH FOREST: Ron Keichline and co-workers at Huntsman, Lady Cavaliers Athletics and also in Town Center, Woodlands Rugby Club

Adopt-a-Path stewards who filed an activity report

May-August 2013

42 groups + 509 volunteer hours

+ 2,729 gallons of trash

1,654 pounds (per Keep America Beautiful one 33-gallon bag is estimated to weigh 20 pounds)

13.5 cubic yards of trash (1 cubic yard=202 gallons)

The holiday season is a time when busy people can become distracted and therefore vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. Just by using a little planning and some good common sense, most holiday crimes can be avoided. The Woodlands Township offers the following tips to help you be more prepared, careful and aware during the holiday season.

Your Vehicle

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times.

• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. If you must leave them, hide them out of sight.

• Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.

At Home

• Do not place empty boxes at your curb advertising your new purchases. Break boxes down and place in your trash or recycle bin.

• Lock your home!

• Holiday gifts should not be visible through windows and doors

Shopping

• Always be aware of your surroundings.

By Susan Martin

• Avoid carrying large sums of cash.

• Keep a secure hold on your handbag and parcels.

• Take only the credit cards you plan to use while shopping.

• Park in well-lit areas if you must shop at night.

• Locate your keys prior to going to your car.

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason.

• Ask security to escort you to your car if you are apprehensive.

When Traveling

• Sign up for Vacation Watch with Law Enforcement.

Montgomery County: www.mocosherriff.com, 936-442-7797

Harris County: www.cd4.hctx.net, 281-376-3472

• Install an automatic timer for your lights.

• Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your home and collect deliveries.

• Stop delivery of mail and newspapers.

Always be aware of your surroundings and don’t become a target for crime. By following these tips, you can make sure criminals do not have the opportunity to take advantage of you and your family. Stay safe and have a happy holiday!

OPERATION ID: Make use of your holiday time. Take an inventory of your property and record serial numbers and models of your new purchases. Videotape or photograph items, and keep these records in a safe place. This is especially helpful for insurance purposes in case of burglary or fire. Engravers are available for checkout from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department to mark items with your Texas Driver’s license or Texas identification number. Please call 281-210-3800 for more information.

“I wanted a caring and friendly environment for Dad, with personal attention and a great quality of life. I found it all right here, where Assisted Living is designed individually for those who need some help with the activities of daily living. People like my Dad. Since he moved in, he’s discovered a renewed sense of energy. I couldn’t ask for anything more – and neither could Dad.”

If you have a loved one that needs great care personalized just for them, call (281) 292-4600 to schedule your visit today.

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www.villagewoodlands.com

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