November 2018

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP

Lighting of the Doves

The Ice Rink

3R BAZAAR

The Woodlands Township Election

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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

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

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

Emergency 911

message from the woodlands township board of directors

the Township hosts historic Incorporation Planning Study Public Forum

The Woodlands Township held an Incorporation Planning Study Public Forum on September 25, 2018, at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center. More than 330 residents attended and heard presentations from Township Chairman Gordy Bunch and Alan Pennington, lead consultant from the Matrix Consulting Group.

Following the presentations, residents were invited to offer their comments and ideas in addition to asking questions of the Board and consultants. Additionally, all seven members of the Township Board offered their thoughts and opinions on the process.

For emergency information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST-FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township. Board Message, continued on page 6

Gordy Bunch Chairman

Brian Boniface Director

John McMullan Vice Chairman

Bruce Rieser Director

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Secretary

Carol Stromatt Director

Don Norrell President and General Manager

John Anthony Brown Treasurer Position No. 3

Photo by Perry Frank

http://www.wjpa.org

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 Charlotte Blanco Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Emily Wright

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.

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

continued from page 3 – message from the woodlands township board of directors

Chairman Bunch’s presentation delved into the history of The Woodlands and its past experiences with the topic of incorporation. “We have been discussing this topic since 1996,” Chairman Bunch said. “We’re taking a year-long process to fully process what all this means. Clearly, the future of The Woodlands resides with what the majority of residents want.”

Currently, Regional Participation Agreements (RPAs) were put in place in 2007 with the City of Houston and the City of Conroe protecting The Woodlands from annexation, allowing The Woodlands to determine its future governance. The Township re-engaged the governance topic in 2011 and 2012 but indefinitely deferred action at that time.

After deferring any action following an Incorporation Study in 2011, the previous Board reserved the right to revisit the topic of incorporation based upon a trigger point that could only be resolved via incorporation. Citing the Woodlands Parkway Extension in 2015 and Hurricane Harvey in 2017, Chairman Bunch said the current Board concluded that this was the moment to reopen those discussions.

“Our community (over 80 percent) voted against the Road Bond in 2015 that included the Woodlands Parkway Extension,” Chairman Bunch said. “That

became our trigger. Woodlands Parkway, along with Gosling and Branch Crossing, remains on the thoroughfare plan and all of our requests to remove it have been rejected. We could not solve it through government negotiation or legislatively. And I would submit that if we did not trigger this process simply because of the roads, we would have triggered it because of Hurricane Harvey, which was a major impact to this community.

“Only Township residents can decide to incorporate The Woodlands,” said Chairman Bunch.

In the aftermath of what to do about the repetitive flooding in our area, it became clear that there is not one single entity that has control over our jurisdiction.”

After explaining the current services provided by the Township and the current tax rates, Chairman Bunch shared more about the 10 steps to incorporation. After step five, which was the public forum for residents, the process includes completing the financial analysis for the cost of city operations, completing the tax rate study, a community survey and second public

forum, Board consideration of calling for an incorporation election and the vote of the residents.

Chairman Bunch reiterated that the choice to incorporate ultimately lies in the hands of the voters. “Only Township residents can decide to incorporate The Woodlands,” he said.

If the residents vote to incorporate, they must also vote to approve the initial maximum tax rate, which was an item added during the last state legislative cycle. Both must pass for The Woodlands to become a general law city first then ultimately leading to a home rule city.

Alan Pennington of Matrix Consulting Group, retained by the Township to conduct the Incorporation Planning Study, presented findings regarding Zoning and Covenants, Law Enforcement, Road Conditions and Municipal Utility District operations. Key findings included the idea that MUD’s would not have to be absorbed as part of the incorporation process as previously assumed in the 2011 study; concrete roads in The Woodlands are in exceptional condition but paved (asphalt) streets will require maintenance soon; and that upon incorporation, the covenants do not go away, but remain.

Following Mr. Pennington’s presentation, numerous residents in attendance spoke and asked questions during the public comment. Topics ranged from tax rates to roadways to the timing of the incorporation discussions.

To learn more about the Incorporation Planning Study and review the reports presented at the Public Forum, please visit www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy. com or www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/governance. The complete video from the meeting is available on both websites. There will be another public forum after the new year.

The Woodlands Township’s recent public forum explained the scope of the Incorporation Planning Study that included steps to incorporation, a governance timeline and the steps to becoming a home rule city from a general law city. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov to view these graphics in full.

From left: Directors Bruce Rieser, Carol Stromatt, John Anthony Brown and Brian Boniface share their views regarding the future governance of The Woodlands.

A standing-room-only crowd of more than 330 was in attendance at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott for the Township’s Incorporation Planning Study Public Forum on September 25, 2018. Chairman Gordy Bunch presented about the Incorporation Planning Study along with representatives from Matrix Consulting Group.

The Woodlands Township’s Future Governance Committee of Gordy Bunch (left), John McMullan and Dr. Ann Snyder.

Photos courtesy of Hello Woodlands

By Mark Lazenby

Families will find plenty to do together this holiday season with The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department! Choose from a variety of activities guaranteed to get the entire family into the holiday spirit. Activities include Breakfast with Santa, Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt, Elf Tryouts, Let It Snow Bingo Night, Gingerbread House Making, North Pole Bakery, Feliz Navi-Dog and more. Events include supplies for various crafts and activities. Holiday events sold out quickly in 2017, so please register as soon as possible. If activities are full, please add your name to the waitlist as spots may become available. Pre-registration is required; registration on event day is not permitted unless space and supplies allow. For more information or to secure your spot, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun to register online.

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

DECEMBER 14 15 20 22

December 14 & 20, 5:30 p.m.

Terramont Park

December 15 & 22, 5:30 p.m.

The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park

Come out to the park for some hot cocoa, cookies and a flashlight candy cane hunt! Be sure to bring a flashlight and your camera for a photo with Santa! Ages 5 and up. $10 resident, $15 non-resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 14

Let it Snow BINGO Night

December 14, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Unplug and tune in to old-fashioned family fun! Enjoy a funfilled holiday evening with your family and friends playing BINGO! Snacks and water provided. For all ages. $5 per person.

DECEMBER 15 22

Breakfast with Santa

December 15 & 22, 10 a.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

This event includes continental-style breakfast, a special craft, holiday music and photographs with Santa. Discounts are available for families of two or three. For all ages. $40 resident family of four, $45 non-resident family of four, $8 each additional family member.

DECEMBER 15

Gingerbread House Making with Santa

December 15, 1 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Build and decorate a gingerbread house with gum drops, peppermints, frosting and more! Parent participation is required. Ages 5-12. $20 resident, $25 non-resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 15 16

Elf Tryouts

December 15 & 16, 3 to 5 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Think you have what it takes to be one of Santa’s helpers? Race around treehouses and tipis, competing against other potential elves in holiday games and activities. There will be a North Pole celebration with cookies and cocoa to welcome our newest elves onto Santa’s team. Ages 8 and up. $20 resident, $25 non-resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 16

North Pole Bakery

December 16, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

Decorate cookies and other treats at the North Pole! Pastry chefs get to decorate a holiday apron and take pictures with Santa. Ages 3-12. $20 resident, $25 non-resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 16

Ugly Sweater Making

December 16, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Got a holiday party coming up that needs a particular look? Bring a sweater to the rec center and we will help you make it ugly for your ugly sweater party! Enjoy crafting while you drink hot cocoa. All supplies provided except the sweater. Prize awarded to ugliest sweater made. Ages 9 and up. $20 resident, $25 Non-Resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 16

Feliz Navi-Dog

December 16, 3 p.m.

Bear Branch Dog Park

Bring your fur baby to Bear Branch Dog Park for a treat hunt and holiday pooch pageant! Enjoy hot cocoa while your pets socialize. Choose two out of the five categories: best behaved, best trick, smallest, largest and best costume. $5 per dog.

DECEMBER 21

Santa Social

December 21, 7 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Get your pajamas on and get the family together for some holiday fun! Enjoy a holiday movie while you do crafts, make garlands and play games. Pizza and drinks will be provided. Don’t forget to bring a camera for a photo with Santa! For all ages. $40 resident family of four, $45 nonresident family of four, $8 each additional family member.

DECEMBER 22

Milk and Cookies with Santa

December 22, 1 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Have milk and cookies with Santa, hear a Christmas story, decorate cookies and make a holiday plate. Don’t forget your camera for a picture with Santa. Ages 3-12. $15 resident, $20 non-resident, $5 sibling discount.

DECEMBER 22

Elves and Arrows

December 22, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Rob Fleming - Archery Range

Get an introduction to archery with a holiday twist! First hour will be instruction for beginner archers and second hour will be archery and holiday games. Hot cocoa and snacks will be provided. Ages 9 and up. $30 resident, $40 non-resident, $5 sibling discount

Saturday, November 17, 2018

3 to 9 p.m.

Town Green Park

The Lighting of the Doves Festival is a longstanding tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the holiday season in the community. The 36th annual event includes live performances, a variety of vendors, snow play areas and children’s activities; all culminating in Santa’s grand arrival and the Lighting of the Doves, followed by a fireworks display. Admission is free. Concessions and activity wristbands available for purchase.

2018 HolidayLighting andDecoratingContest

Celebrate the season with the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest! Each village association coordinates their own contest with support from The Woodlands Township and The Woodlands Fire Department. To enter the contest, just decorate the outside of your home for viewing by the judges during the month of December. Please remember that winter holiday decorations and lights may

be illuminated no earlier than the second Monday in November through January 15, 2019. Seasonal displays must be limited in scope and not become a nuisance or annoyance to the neighborhood.

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 other prizes are usually awarded to Best Neighborhood. Members of each village association serve as contest judges. The selection of winners is left to the sole discretion of the judges. Please check with your village association for more details about your respective village.

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY FUN WITH

Theholidays are fast approaching, which means your children will be enjoying breaks from school. Plan ahead and register now for Sunny Dayz Camps for both Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks! Campers will enjoy indoor and outdoor games, crafts, theme days, special snacks, visits to the park and more. For more information and to register, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ sunnydayz. Registration is now open!

AGES: 6 – 12 years

TEEN CAMP: 13 – 15 years

LOCATION: The Rob Fleming Recreation Center, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

HOURS: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

DATES: Thanksgiving Week – November 19, 20, 21, 2018

Camp closes at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 21, 2018.

Christmas Break – December 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 31, 2018; January 2, 3, 4, 2019; January 7, 8, 2019

No camp December 24 or 25, 2018.

Camp closes at 3 p.m. on Monday, December 31, 2018.

COST: $50 per day; $125 three-day week; $175 four days a week; sibling discounts available.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP Board of Directors Election

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018

CANDIDATES IN BALLOT ORDER

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2018 election, designated as positions 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Ballot positions for candidates who have filed are as follows:

POSITION #1 POSITION #2 POSITION #3 POSITION #4

Gordy Bunch Treva Taglieri John Anthony Brown Francis “Frank” Dargavage Brian Boniface

Bruce Rieser

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

VOTING ELIGIBILITY, LOCATIONS AND HOURS FOR THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP VOTERS

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. October 9, 2018, was the last day to register to vote in the November 6, 2018 election. The Township election is conducted in accordance with the county elections.

Montgomery County

For more information on voting hours and locations or to check your voter registration in Montgomery County, visit www.MontgomeryVotes.org or call the Montgomery County Elections Office at 936-539-7843.

Harris County

For more information on voting hours and locations or to check your voter registration in Harris County, visit www.HarrisVotes.org or call the Harris County Election Information Line at 713-755-6965.

THANKSGIVING RECYCLING AND TRASH SERVICE SCHEDULE

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no solid waste collection services on Thursday, November 22, 2018. Curbside service will resume on Friday, November 23, 2018. Households that usually have service

Thursday and Friday will receive collection on the day following their regular service day. All services are affected— trash, recycling, yard trimmings and bulk pick-up. Please see the chart below.

Regular Collection

Monday, November 19 .............

Tuesday, November 20

Wednesday, November 21 ........

Thanksgiving Collection

Monday, November 19

Tuesday, November 20

Wednesday, November 21

Thursday, November 22 Friday, November 23

Friday, November 23................ Saturday, November 24

HELPFUL REMINDERS

The Woodlands Recycling Center, Research Forest Drive

Open Wednesday, November 21, 2018, from 4 to 7 p.m.

Open Saturday, November 24, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Missed Pick-ups

Please call Waste Management Customer Service at 800-800-5804.

Additional trash bags

Affix each extra bag with a pink tag, available for purchase at local grocery stores for $1.75.

Unusable textiles recycling

Fill Simple Recycling orange bags with worn-out bedding, clothes, towels and any other household textiles.

OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.

At Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our teams of nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer, while delivering the most advanced treatments and comprehensive care available. From screenings to diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments, our leading cancer care is available at all seven locations across Greater Houston, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/outsmartcancer or call 936.270.3333 to find a doctor in your area.

STAY PREPARED EVEN AS

Hurricane Season Winds Down

As Hurricane Season comes to a close on November 30, 2018, The Woodlands Township urges all residents to remain ready and stay prepared throughout the year. Please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency for additional information and resources. Assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need to get by in one place. Recommended supplies to include are:

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

• At least a three-day supply of nonperishable food

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First aid kit

A

• Whistle to signal for help

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

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

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

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Manual can opener and utensils if kit contains canned food

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

• Important family documents

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

Homeland Security website at www.ready.gov.

EXPERIENCE THE WONDER OF CHRISTMAS WITH US

Invite your family and friends to experience a joyous Christmas celebration. Come for one of our 20 Christmas services, which run Sunday, December 16 through Christmas Eve. We offer a variety of worship experiences to choose from:

• Traditional candlelight worship

• Special needs family worship

• Second Annual Night of Carols

• Worship for those who are grieving

• Children’s worship

• Casual/contemporary candlelight worship

At The Woodlands United Methodist Church, we have room for you. Find our full schedule of services and events at thewoodlandsumc.org/christmas

2200 Lake Woodlands Drive | The Woodlands, TX 77380 281.297.5900 | thewoodlandsumc.org

Happy Thanksgiving

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP!

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors and staff wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday!

November 2018

*For updates and additional information, please view the Township calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendarofevents.

Thursday, November 1

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Toddler Time*

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

10 a.m. to noon

281-516-7348

*Toddler Time is offered twice weekly from September to May, on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at Bear Branch Recreation Center (5310 Research Forest Drive) and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon at Rob Fleming Recreation Center (6464 Creekside Forest Drive). There is no Toddler Time during the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Rock the Row Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m. 281-210-3800

Friday, November 2

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Dr.

7 to 9:45 p.m. 281-210-3950

Saturday, November 3

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center All Day

Composting Class

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Dr.

10 to 11 a.m. 281-210-3800

Monday, November 5

Baby Time*

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Dr.

10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

281-210-3950

*Baby Time is offered every Monday from September to May from 10 a.m. to noon at Bear Branch Recreation Center (5310 Research Forest Drive). There is no Baby Time during the weeks of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr. 7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Tuesday, November 6

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Election

Wednesday, November 7

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

Thursday, November 8

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Walk In The Woods – Snakes of The Woodlands

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Dr.

6 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-5808

Rock the Row

Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Friday, November 9

Family Bingo Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

6:30 to 8 p.m.

281-516-7348

Saturday, November 10

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

All Day

3R Bazaar: NEW LOCATION

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

281-210-3800

Sunday, November 11

The Woodlands Township Veterans Day Tribute

Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Dr.

4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, November 13

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, November 14

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, November 15

50+ Dance Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

6:30 to 9 p.m.

281-516-7348

Rock the Row

Hughes Landing

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, November 16

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Dr.

7 to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, November 17

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center All Day

36th Annual Lighting of the Doves Festival

Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Dr.

3 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Ice Rink Opens for the Season

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center 2005 Lake Robbins Dr.

3 to 11 p.m.

281-419-5630

*The Ice Rink is open daily from November 17, 2018, through January 21, 2019.

For the complete schedule, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/icerink

Monday, November 19

Sunny Dayz Thanksgiving Camp

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3889

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Tuesday, November 20

Sunny Dayz Thanksgiving Camp

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

Wednesday, November 21

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

Sunny Dayz Thanksgiving Camp

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

Thursday, November 22

Township Offices Closed for Holiday

Friday, November 23

Township Offices Closed for Holiday

Saturday, November 24

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center All Day

Tuesday, November 27

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, November 28

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board Planning Session

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Friday, November 30

Kid’s Night Out

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Dr.

6 to 10 p.m.

281-516-7348

Please see page 12 for the Thanksgiving holiday recycling and trash service schedule.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we offer our thanks to all who have participated in any way with our village association’s programs and activities this year. Many people and organizations deserve recognition for sponsoring and assisting and we send our thanks to everyone who attended our events. We appreciate all that you’ve done.

It is Township election time again! Please vote in The Woodlands Township Board of Directors election on November 6, 2018. Four director positions will be filled, and two of these are contested positions. Early voting began on October 22, 2018, and runs through November 2, 2018. It is imperative that voter turnout improves for these elections, so please participate in this process to elect your local government.

Stop by the Alden Bridge booth as we celebrate America Recycles Day at the Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market on November 10, 2018, from 8 a.m. to noon. The annual Buy Recycled Boutique will be there – it’s a great place to start your Christmas shopping. This year’s Village Challenge involves collecting batteries AA, AAA, C, D and 9V. We earn money for our scholarship fund based on the amount that we collect, so please bring these to our booth. A shred truck will be on site, and five cans of food or $5 for the Interfaith Food Pantry will pay for shredding a bank box full of paper. The kids can enjoy games, crafts and prizes. Oral care products such as old toothbrushes, empty toothpaste tubes and floss containers will be collected for recycling by Girl Scout Cadette Troop 11953. You can bring unusable textile items for recycling also.

Don’t forget the Township’s Veterans Day Tribute, November 11, 2018, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at Town Green Park. There will be musical performances and a keynote speaker, plus you can drop off care packages of recommended items for the

military. See the Township website for the list of recommended items.

Join us at the monthly Alden Bridge Village Association board/residents’ meeting on Tuesday, November 13, 2018, at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest. Our guest speaker will be Claude Hunter and his topic will be Texas genealogical research and history. Please join us!

We completed this year’s Yard of the Month program with the award to the Segura family of Spooner Ridge in Stockbridge Landing. 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 – for more information, please see the article on page 10.

Don’t tell me you still haven’t signed up for our Alden Bridge email newsletter. Just send your email address to aldenbridge@gmail.com and you’ll receive news from our village every month. Your address will not be shared and will be used only to distribute village news. Also, please visit our website, www.aldenbridge.org, which is updated continuously, and connect with us on Facebook.

This month also brings the start of the holidays to The Woodlands, so please take advantage of the festivities. The Lighting of the Doves, which brings Santa and the holiday spirit to The Woodlands, will be held on November 17, 2018, at Town Green Park, and that’s also opening day for The Ice Rink. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

Mark your calendar for the Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest in December. Cochran’s Crossing will be selecting the best among the many holiday decorations that brighten the neighborhood this time of year. The photo from the past

year’s award winner is included to give you some ideas. In addition to a single residence award, there is a category for best neighborhood lights.

To ensure you are entered in the competition, please email Gary Conwell, gconwell1@gmail.com, with your email address and phone number. Make sure your interest in being judged is received by December 7, 2018.

In November, there will be a program focusing on recycling in The Woodlands. This will be presented by Waste Management.

A variety of elections will also be on the agenda for November. Bringing candidates and speakers supporting specific issues up close and personal is one way the village associations can help the community. The association meetings are not just for board members but are also for the residents they represent.

The meetings also provide an opportunity to meet with representatives of the law enforcement services. Although generally issues of great concern are not included on the agenda, it is unfortunate that some of the same problems keep being discussed. Perhaps the most common concern is the cause of car burglaries, which is usually linked to unlocked car doors. Remember to lock your car doors, as that is the easiest way to prevent theft.

Some topics related to other issues have included landscape issues, scheduling of express busses, National Night Out,

Remember to enter your home in the Holiday Lighting & Decorating Contest for Cochran’s Crossing by emailing Gary Conwell, gconwell1@gmail.com.

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

the Community Safety Expo, support for schools in Cochran’s Crossing, updates on parks and Cochran’s Crossing’s participation as a member of the Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce. If you have topics for presentation, please contact gconwell1@gmail.com.

Board meetings are open to all on the fourth Tuesday of every month (except December) at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

College Park

College Park will participate next month in the Township’s Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Board members plan to be out and about in the neighborhoods of College Park in the early part of December to find the best light displays in our village. College Park includes Grogan’s Forest, Windsor Hills and Harpers Landing. Start planning and get out your holiday decorations soon. For more about the Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest, please see the article on page 8.

Township elections are this month, but remember that the elections for the Village Associations representatives are in February. Filing begins in December for positions on the Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC) and the College Park Village Association board. We currently have board member positions open if you are an interested resident. For filing information, please visit The Woodlands Township website.

We hope you have been saving your used batteries. The Village Challenge is on and this year we are collecting ALKALINE batteries. These will be collected at the America Recycles Day event and 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 10, 2018. The event will be at the Farmer’s Market in Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center and is coordinated by the Township Environmental Services Department.

There are many activities for young and old alike to get creative with recycled materials. Leave with a handmade project. While the children are happy making something, the adults can shop the 3R Bazaar. You can find jewelry, glassware and other items all made from recycled materials.

Turn off your sprinkler system this fall. Teri MacArthur from the Environmental Services Department attended our September meeting and explained it is important to allow our grass to go dormant in the winter so that it can develop a stronger root system. She also collected pledges from all board members and residents in attendance with the promise to keep our sprinklers turned off until April. Since 2009, residents of The Woodlands have REDUCED per person per day water consumption from 164 gallons to 92. Be a part of this conservation effort. Take the Water-Wise Village Challenge by signing the pledge to turn off your sprinklers. College Park residents took first place last year. Will you help us to achieve this distinction again this year? Visit the Township website to sign up. Each pledge earns points for our village.

The College Park Village Association Board of Directors sponsors and supports many events in your neighborhood. Our monthly minutes are on the College Park website for you to review at www.villageofcollegepark.com. We have board positions available for residents interested in serving the community of College Park. Contact us or attend a monthly meeting on the third Monday of the month at the Township building at 6 p.m.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Indian Springs

Dust off your reindeer, get your decorations out of the attic and fire up the auxiliary power to energize your million-

continued on next page

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m.*

CREEKSIDE PARK www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Creekside Park Village Association usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

Grogan’s Mill Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m.*

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

*Meets at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Thank You to Our Sponsors for 2018 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

GOLD SPONSORS

America’s ER - Stage Sponsor, Silver Rock Productions, Allstate SILVER SPONSOR

H-E-B

BRONZE SPONSORS

AT&T, Chick-fil-A, CHI St. Luke’s, Costco, Dietz & Watson, Firehouse Subs, Home Depot, Karate Inc, Kona Ice, Liberty Mutual, Moonlighting of The Woodlands, RING Video Doorbell, Storm Tight Windows, Tiff’s Treats

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

Benihana, Brother’s Pizza, Crust Pizza, Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Dairy Queen, Domino’s Pizza, Genghis Grill, Goose’s Acre Bistro & Irish Pub, Kendra Scott, Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria, Papa John’s Pizza, Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, The Woodlands Fire Department, Villa Sport Athletic Club and Spa

bulb Christmas light strings. It is time to don your house with enough holiday cheer to make Clark W. Griswold green with envy!

The Indian Springs Village Association will award the Best House and the Best Neighborhood based on an individual family’s effort and a coordinated effort by a neighborhood. In 2017, the Murphy’s “Snoopy House” received the Best House award. With thousands of lights, a landing strip and a custom tribute to our Houston Astros, they shared their passion for the holiday, their profession and the competition. In addition, their neighbors in Idlewood also got into the spirit by creating a magical wonderland that could put the lights in Time Square to shame.

Judging usually occurs during the second week of December, so start your over-the-top holiday projects now so you and/or your neighborhood are in the running for the annual bragging rights. Prizes for this year’s contest are still being determined. Past prizes have included several tickets to The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center, yard signs and plaques. We look forward to the immense creativity of Indian Springs residents. Get your blueprints, jigsaws, glitter paint and flood lights and get moving on those Norman Rockwell-inspired streetscapes.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Before you know it, it will be time to start stringing those Christmas lights and putting up the decorations. It is time again for the Panther Creek Village Association Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Every resident of the village is automatically entered. You have two categories in which to win: the Neighborhood Category and the Individual Home Category. Our expert judges will be coming by in early to mid-December to marvel at your spirit and creativity. After scoring and comparing their picks, they will be awarding prizes and recognition. To give everyone a real chance, last year’s winners are not eligible to win this year.

Were you and your neighbors the ones who helped make National Night Out in your neighborhood a wonderful event this year? If so, you helped keep The Woodlands a “Real Hometown.” If there was not one in your area, please contact The Woodlands Township next year in September for free party supplies and ideas to hold your own National Night Out party.

Volunteers from across Panther Creek also turned out in October to make the Fall Flea Market event a big success. After the holidays, you can start thinking of the items you may wish to offer for sale or look for at our Spring Flea Market.

The 3R (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) Bazaar will be on November 10, 2018, at the Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center. Bring old batteries, old clothing, both reusable and not. Shredding services will be available for banker boxes of non-business papers for 5 canned goods or $5. All donations benefit Interfaith Food Pantry.

On November 11, 2018, we all will honor our veterans with a Veterans Day event at Town Green Park at 4:30 p.m.

The 30+ year holiday tradition of the Lighting of the Doves will be held November 17, 2018, at Town Green Park beginning at 3 p.m.

If you are going to be traveling during the upcoming holiday season, you can have the Montgomery County Sheriff Department and or our Precinct 3 Constable Deputies give your home special attention

while you are gone for two to 30 days. Since the program began years ago, NO home on the Vacation Watch List has been broken into while the residents were gone. Take advantage of this free service by contacting www.mocosheriff.com or www.mcco3.org

Panther Creek Village Association invites you to have your say, ask questions and participate in your community the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. in The Woodlands Township building at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. You can also visit us online at www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org.

Submitted by Paul

Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

Thank you to all the community members who attended the 12th Annual Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival in October. The funds raised by this event will provide grants to the PTOs of Coulson Tough, Deretchin, and Cedric Smith Elementary Schools. If you missed the fun, there is always next year!

It is time for Sterling Ridge residents to show off their inner Clark Griswold with the Holiday Lighting and Decorating contest. The Sterling Ridge Village Association board members will be judging your holiday displays December 12 - 16, 2018, with awards for Best Home and Best Neighborhood handed out on December 18, 2018. Winners will be highlighted on our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/ sterlingridge.thewoodlands/

Continue to protect your vehicles by parking cars in the garage, turning on outdoor lights, locking all outdoor vehicles, not leaving valuables in your vehicle and reporting suspicious behavior to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office by calling 936-442-7797 (press option #3).

The Sterling Ridge Village Association board meetings are open to all residents who are interested in community activities. The meetings are held the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

Submitted by Treva Taglieri

Idlewood took the 2017 Best Neighborhood Award for Indian Springs. Photo by Kelly Sharer

The Murphy family won the 2017 Best House Award for Indian Springs. Photo by Kelly Sharer

Shimmy and Sway at 50+ Dance Night

By Michael Corbett

Residents and guests, ages 50 and up, are encouraged to join the Township for evenings of fun, socializing and dancing! 50+ Dance Nights are hosted monthly on Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, located at 6464 Creekside Forest Dr. Each event features live bands from all around Texas, playing a variety of classic country, golden oldies, line dances and more! Groups, couples and single adults are all welcome. The cost of admission is $7 per person upon arrival. Advance registration is not required. Refreshments will be provided, but no smoking or alcohol will be permitted.

Upcoming 50+ Dance Night Dates

• November 15, 2018 featuring The Night Session Band

• December 20, 2018 featuring The Southern Breeze Band

For more information about 50+ Dance Nights, please call 281-210-3950 or 281-516-7348, or email recreation@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

For more information about

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department, and other activities for active adults, please call 281-210-3800, visit the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/parksandrecreation or follow The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/townshipparksandrec

Don’t miss 50+ Dance Nights, which are special evenings for adults only with live music and refreshments at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.

Winterizing Home Pools TIPS FOR

By Karl Shaw

Whether you built your pool or inherited it when you moved here, everybody can use some help from time to time. What can you do to safely prepare your backyard pool for a Texas winter?

DO NOT DRAIN IT!

The Woodlands area has a high underground water table. Do not completely drain any pool unless you know it is safe to do so. Picture an empty bowl pushed down into a full sink... By draining a pool without giving the groundwater a place to escape, the pool’s empty shell can get pushed up from the ground, cracking both pipes and concrete. This can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in repairs (or a complete loss).

SAFE POOL COVERS

Simple tarps can easily give way if a person or pet accidentally falls onto them. Instead, alleviate stress and liability by investing in a specially designed cover to keep people and pets (and critters and debris) out of pools. If you are interested in covering your pool for the winter months, look for a reputable company with a local office that will customize a

cover for your pool’s dimensions – and let them handle the installation.

WINTERIZING PIPES

Treat your pool pipes just like those in the rest of your home. If they are outside and holding pressurized water, give them some insulation for hard freezes (below 25 degrees Fahrenheit for more than four hours). If you have the pool system turned off, simply open valves and lids to let the water naturally expand and contract. Water in active, circulating pool systems will almost never freeze during a Texas winter so there’s typically no need to act.

POOL CLEANING IN WINTER

If you have a cleaning service, consult your rep about the possibility of reducing the frequency of their visits in the coldest months. Direct sunlight and water temperature are major factors in chlorine usage and algae growth. The pool will

still need routine maintenance, but you should be able to safely scale back efforts and then ramp back up in the spring.

IF YOU HAVE A HEATER

If you do have a pool heater and just haven’t turned it on yet, keep a few things in mind. First, heaters need maintenance, too. Give it a good onceover before use. Second, it typically costs more to re-heat a pool or spa every few days than to simply keep it warm (assuming you have a good cover). Finally, warmer pools are more inviting to everyone. Please be safe and keep an eye on your littlest family members anytime they are near the pool!

The information presented here is purposefully general, and residents should do their own research to find out what is best for them. Pick your favorite search engine and carefully research the terms mentioned here for more information.

Water Prices in The Woodlands Remain Some of the Area’s Lowest

By Bob Dailey

Rising population increases the demand for drinking water. As aquifer levels decline and reservoirs are used more and more frequently, more infrastructure is required to meet demand. This includes expensive water treatment plants to properly clean and disinfect surface water. It means costly operations to desalinate brackish water from deeper aquifers, and eventually, to desalinate ocean water.

Already, many of the nation’s largest aquifers are dwindling. The massive Oglala Aquifer, which provides water to most of the Midwest, including north Texas, has declined 50 percent or more. Our own aquifers are seeing steep declines in water levels, which is why we are bringing water from Lake Conroe (dug as a drinking water supply in the 1970s to provide for increased demand in our region). There may be other deeper aquifers that can supply water. The legislature is looking for new locations for new reservoirs. All these potential operations are costly – and they won’t be completed overnight.

However, residents of The Woodlands should be aware that their cost of water is lower than most of the other surrounding areas. The Woodlands is one of the lowest in the county and in the areas surrounding Houston. Houston’s costs are significantly higher than the rest of the area. Water prices include any other fees paid, such as the Surface Water Conversion fees that are paid by most Montgomery County residents. Many Houston residents also pay Surface Water Conversion fees (water from Lake Houston), but they are significantly higher than those in Montgomery County. For more information about water usage, please visit The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (WJPA) at www.wjpa.org.

The above article was provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, www.wjpa.org.

T he Cost of Water*

for area municipalities

Houston-$150.00

Baytown- $126.92

Oak Ridge North - $112.24

Conroe- $106.44

Huntsville- $98.78

Tomball - $98.00

Sugarland- $97.03

Deer Park- $95.16

Pearland- $94.30

The Woodl ands- $92.00

Pasadena- $72.50

Friendswood- $71.80

Panorama Village - $71.23

Humble- $64.31

Shenandoah- $60.45

STAY SAFE

While Shopping for the HOLIDAYS!

By Holly Steinke

Have you seen the latest ads? It must be holiday shopping time! There are always great bargains out there this time of year, so it’s a good time to shop. You may want to brush up on these terms below before you go to ensure a safe and pleasant holiday shopping experience.

BMVs

Burglary of Motor Vehicle incidents are the leading crime of opportunity in The Woodlands. BMVs happen when items are taken from your parked vehicle. When you head out to the store, have a plan in mind of where you are going. Take out any valuables from your vehicle that you won’t need and hide valuables before you get where you are going. Remove items from your purse or wallet that you won’t use, so you won’t be tempted to leave them in the car. Remove the opportunity by removing your valuables and locking your car doors when you shop and when you return home!

SLIDING

Do you need to stop for gas? When you stop, keep your doors locked,

windows closed and avoid leaving your purse, packages or wallet within easy access of the passenger door to avoid “sliding” where someone may try to slip into the other side of your car to take your valuables while you are filling up.

JUGGING

If you need cash from the ATM or bank, be sure to hide your cash or put away your bank bag/envelope before you leave the bank. “Jugging” is where suspects watch customers at a bank and follow the customers that they believe are in possession of cash and look for an opportunity to burglarize or rob them. The crime may also involve suspects following someone with packages, so avoid storing cash or packages in your vehicle, since both may provide an opportunity for a suspect to target you or your money when you park at your next stop.

After you leave the bank, stay alert and make sure no one is following you. If you think someone is following you, call 9-1-1 to report it, follow the dispatcher’s advice and deputies suggest you drive to

a public place such as a well-lit shopping center until help arrives.

CAR HOPPING

Again, lock your doors to your vehicle and remove valuables when you park to avoid “car hopping” where someone tries the door handle to see if it will open and then they find or take items left inside.

If you shop at night, park close to the store in a well-lit area, so that you will be able to see if someone is near your vehicle. If you have others with you, be sure to have a plan of where and when to meet, in case you get separated.

By watching for some of these increasingly common crimes, you will be able to enjoy your holidays!

For more safety tips, please call The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

3R Bazaar: Recycle, Shop, Reimagine

By Zoe Killian

RESIDENTIAL

SHRED DAY

Secure document shredding

5 cans of food or $5 per bank box benefits

Interfaith Food Pantry

RECYCLING GUIDELINES

LISTED ITEMS ONLY – ONE DAY ONLY –

ALKALINE BATTERIES

AA, AAA, C, D and 9 volt ONLY

TEXTILES

Unusable condition –Simple Recycling

EYEGLASSES

All eyeglasses and cases

ORAL CARE PRODUCTS

Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers

Recycle, shop and reimagine waste with The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at the annual 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 10, 2018, from 8 a.m. to noon. This year, our recycling extravaganza is moving to The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill, 7 Switchbud Place, The Woodlands, TX 77380. Enjoy live music, locally sourced foods, shopping and fun for the whole family!

RECYCLE

Bring select items for free recycling and learn how you can improve your current recycling routine at home by reducing contamination and helping to keep recycling strong. Visit with local organizations to learn about many different items that can be recycled instead of added to landfills. This year’s Village Challenge features the collection of Alkaline Batteries – AA, AAA, C, D and 9 volt ONLY. Each village will receive scholarship funds based on the amount collected.

SHOP

Receive an exclusive reusable tote, generously donated by Gullo Toyota, and shop the Farmer’s Market and 3R

Bazaar. Then, remember to shop with it in the future to reduce your use of plastic bags. Buy treasures made from recycled or sustainable materials at the awardwinning Buy Recycled Boutique hosted by The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. Discover artwork created by local artists using upcycled materials.

REIMAGINE

Rethink waste when you upcycle an old T-shirt into a bag or contribute to a plastic cap collage with The Woodlands Children’s Museum. Join forces with the Super Recyclers, The Woodlands’ Recycling Squad, to fight contamination. Stage a super selfie with the Polymer Princess and Canned Crusader.

The 3R Bazaar is a free event brought to you by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with sponsorship from Waste Management, Gullo, WJPA, Southern Shred and The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. For more information or inquiries about being involved in next year’s event, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/3rbazaar or call 281-210-3800.

Preventing Kitchen Fires on Thanksgiving

As you plan your Thanksgiving menu, don’t forget about fire safety. Did you know Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires? The number of home fires doubles on Thanksgiving. So, let’s add a pinch of fire safety to the menu. Keep these safety tips in mind as you prepare your meal.

TURKEY

• If you are roasting your turkey, make sure you set a timer. This way, you won’t forget about the bird as you watch the parade or football.

• If you are frying your turkey, use a fryer with thermostat controls. This will ensure the oil does not become overheated.

• Thaw your turkey completely. Ice on the bird will cause the oil to splatter.

• Don’t overfill the pot with oil. If you do, the oil will overflow when you add the turkey, causing a fire hazard.

• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the fryer.

• Always use the fryer outdoors.

STUFFING

Stand by your stove when you are boiling your potatoes or frying onions for stuffing. It is best to stay in the kitchen when you are frying, boiling or broiling. If you are in the kitchen, it is easier to catch spills or hazardous conditions before they become a fire.

VEGETABLES

• Keep the area around the stove clear of packaging, paper towels and dish cloths; anything that can burn.

• Be sure to clean up any spills as they happen.

• Be prepared. Keep a large pan lid or baking sheet handy in case you need to smother a pan fire.

• Turn pot handles towards the back of the stove so you don’t bump them.

By following these safety tips, you will have a delicious and fire-safe Thanksgiving. Let the firefighters have dinner with their families, not yours.

This message is provided by the U.S. Fire Administration. Learn more at www.usfa.fema.gov.

HOME SAFETY

DURING THE HOLIDAYS

By Holly Steinke

There are a few things that we should be doing at home during the holidays and all year long to help keep safe at home.

• Don’t forget to lock your doors and windows to your home and garage every time you leave and come home.

• Set your alarm and ensure that your family knows how to use it. Let your visitors know what to do if they accidentally set it off. If you have a camera device at your door, check on it periodically.

• Is it dark outside your home at night? If so, consider installing an approved motion light that will come on automatically if someone approaches your home, or install a dual brightness light that has a low setting and comes on brighter when someone approaches.

• If you see or hear suspicious activity in the neighborhood, contact your law enforcement non-emergency number (shown below under Vacation Watch).

• Do you know your neighbors? Join The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch. Call your Program Specialist at 281-210-3800 at The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch to find out more. Safety Awareness Days and other activities with the Neighborhood Watch are a great way to meet your neighbors and exchange phone numbers.

• Remind your family not to open the door to solicitors or strangers, but do be sure to speak to the caller through the

door, so that they know you are home. Review what actions should be taken with your older children who may be home alone.

• Post your home address and important phone numbers by the phone and enter the numbers in your cell phone. Be sure everyone knows to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Also, register for Smart911 through Montgomery County 9-1-1, so if you call 9-1-1 in an emergency from a registered phone, your information will come up on the screen to help the first responders help you. Register at www.mc911.org.

• If you arrive home and something doesn’t look right, trust your instinct and call for law enforcement before entering the home.

• Trim shrubs and trees to eliminate hiding places on your property.

If you’ll be away, here are some additional tips:

• Let a trusted neighbor know where you’ll be and how to reach you. You may want to leave them a key, but don’t hide a key outdoors, since burglars usually know the best hiding places.

• Ask your trusted neighbor to pick up your mail, packages, newspapers and fliers left for you, if you’ll be away. If you leave on trash day, ask if they can

put back your trash and recycling bins, so the carts aren’t sitting out while you are gone. Be sure to return the favor for them when they are away!

• Sign up for Vacation Watch with your local law enforcement agency:

In Montgomery County, visit www.mctxsheriff.org, click on Community, Crime Prevention, Vacation Watch or call 936-442-7797, option 3.

In Harris County (Village of Creekside Park), visit www.constablepct4.com, click on Community Involvement, Services Offered, Vacation Watch Request, Choose Creekside (Woodlands) from or call 281-376-3472.

For additional crime prevention information or to join The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch or email neighbor@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Adopt-a-path volunteers active May to August 2018

51 groups

+ 320 volunteer hours

+1,913 gallons of trash 1,159 pounds 20 curbside trash carts

By Zoe Killian

Thank you to the many volunteers who are committed to keeping The Woodlands clean and green. Removing litter from our greenbelts prevents pollution in our waterways, protects wildlife and keeps our community looking beautiful.

Good job to our Lookout for Litter participants for collecting 1,379 pieces of litter this summer! Youth volunteers ranging from 3 to 11 years of age received an ice cream cone for their hard work and discovered a new passion: keeping our environment clean.

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

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agent, Cub Scout Pack 889, Culp Family, Karl Family, Steve and Judy Easton, Sullivan Family, The Conservatory at Alden Bridge

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Cochran’s Crossing Crew, Figueredo-Weiser Family, Girl Scout Troop 11351,Kimmel Family, LSC-Montgomery Mavericks, Rhoad Family, Roger Howard, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

COLLEGE PARK

Bay Chapel Bandits, College Park High School HOSA, Dunseith Family

CREEKSIDE PARK

Malatesta Family, Samaia Family, Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL

Gary Jackson, Jones | Carter, Molly Anne and Robin Davis

INDIAN SPRINGS

Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III, Densmore & Tiller, Schapiro Family, Team Hans, Woodlands India Association

PANTHER CREEK

American Heritage Girls Troop 1180, Grimes-Hanlin Family, Klein Family, National Charity Round Table, Oney Family for Sunuk and Koda, Redmond for Lisiewski, Rowing Club of The Woodlands, Steph’s Pet Sitting, The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church

STERLING RIDGE

“Do wonderful,somethingpeople may imitate it.”

— ALBERT SCHWEITZER

Charles and Donna Moseley, Chef B Services, Devitt Family, Kounthapanya Family, Newman Family, Rohm Home, Stockhausen Family, Woodlands SYP Meetup

RESEARCH FOREST

Houston Advanced Research Center, Ron Keichline and Huntsman Colleagues

TOWN CENTER

American Legion Post 305, The Woodlands Lions Club

THE TWELFTH ANNUAL CREEKSIDE CAMPOUT

Saturday, December 1, 2018 to Sunday, December 2, 2018

Remember when life was simple? Real fun was catching fireflies with friends and camping out in the yard! Relive that fun with your kids and grandkids at the 12th Annual Creekside Campout. The fee includes BBQ dinner with sides; pancakes, breakfast tacos, muffins and fruit for breakfast, snacks and all activities. Just bring your own tent and sleeping bags! Tents will be on the field, and activities will be offered throughout the park in the tipis, amphitheater, trails and open space.

AGES: All LOCATION: The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389

TIME: Check in begins at noon on Saturday.

FEE: $135 Resident family of four; $30 per each additional family member; $145 Non-Resident family of four.

Archery • Kayaking • Night Hikes • Outdoor Education Sessions • Crafts • Games • Movie • Campfire and S’mores

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