December 2018

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

Now Is the Time for a Career in Real Estate, Loan, Inspection or Appraisal!

If you are considering a career in real estate or any related real estate field, you need to know how fortunate you are to live in Texas. The following are reasons Texas agents and affiliates are excited about our economy:

• Texas is the #2 state for largest resident inflows! That means more houses to sell and more businesses moving into our state. U-Haul National Migration Trend Reports

• Texas housing sales rose 3.3% and average days on market are 57. Inventory levels remain historically low at 3.7 months Recenter.tamu.edu

• Texas’ pace of job creation exceeded the nation’s for the year with an annual growth rate of 2.1%; the nation’s rate is at 1.7% Recenter.tamu.edu

• F ive cities in Texas are in Forbes Top 25 Best Places to Live in the U.S . The most from any state!

Champions School of Real Estate® is your choice school for a new career!

We have counselors at our brick and mortar schools in every major metropolitan area of Texas to help counsel you with any question you may have. We also have online counselors and live chat for our customers

• Look at our page of testimonials from our thousands of satisfied real estate, loan officer, inspector and appraiser students! They love us! Choose to be a Champion™!

the Year Honoree - Women’s Chamber of Commerce of Texas (2013)

Top 50 Most Influential Women in Houston (2010)

Texas State WCR Chapter Business Woman of the Year (2008)

Named in National Top 25 Most Influential People in Real Estate by ActiveRain.com (2007)

NAR REBAC Realtor® Hall of Fame (2003)

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

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

message

from the woodlands township board of directors

The Woodlands Township wishes you and yours a safe and happy

Holiday Season!

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION

TheWoodlands Township election was held November 6, 2018, with the following unofficial results, as of press time. For official results, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/election.

Position #1: Gordy Bunch

Position #2: Brian Boniface

Position #3: John Anthony Brown

Position #4: 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.

Interested in running for a community office?

The Woodlands community has numerous additional positions coming up for election in February. The Woodlands Township will hold elections for Residential Design Review Committees and Village Associations in February 2019. Watch for more information in the January issue of this magazine, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/februaryelection.

Board Message, continued on page 10

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

The cost of water for area municipalities*

Houston - $150.00

Magnolia - $119.93

Magnolia

Huntsville - $98.78

Tomball - $98.00

Sugarland - $97.03

Deer Park - $95.16

Pearland - $94.30

The Woodlands - $91.80

Panorama

Humble - $64.31

Shenandoah - $60.45

*Data based on information supplied by the Texas Municipal League, Circle of Blue (a national water price watchdog organization), or by the municipalities themselves. Amounts are based on 10,000 gallons per month water and sewer use and includes any surface water conversion fees and any other fees.

http://www.wjpa.org

855-h2o-save

(855-426-7283)

The Woodlands

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

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.

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. Printed

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 and 20, 5:30 p.m.

Terramont Park

December 15 and 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 and 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 and 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.

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 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 non-resident 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

DECEMBER 16 NEW THIS YEAR

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

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.

Recycle your Christmas Tree at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Residents are encouraged to drop off used, natural Christmas trees at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, between December 26, 2018, and January 7, 2019. Please deposit them in the “Christmas Tree Corral” in the parking lot any time of day. Trees must be completely clean, that is, no flocked (white) trees, tinsel, ornaments or any other material or decorations that could litter the forest. The trees will be ground into chips to refurbish the forest floor in the park.

2018

HolidayLighting AND DECORATING CONTEST

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

LetThe Woodlands Township make your holiday excursions even better with the Town Center Trolley! Park once and hop aboard a trolley to your favorite shopping and dining destinations in Town Center.

Four trolleys will circulate about every 10-12 minutes during peak operating hours around Hughes Landing, the Mall and Market Street with additional public parking available at the Gold Lot next to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

The trolley service runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. The Township’s new Trolley Tracker app, by Ride Systems, makes it simple to know when the next trolley will arrive at your location. The free app is available in the App Store and on Google Play. Simply download the app and select “The Woodlands Township” from the list.

judges during the month of December.

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.

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.

Houston Methodist Cancer Center at The Woodlands 17183 Interstate 45 S.

The Woodlands, TX 77385

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

In Case You Missed It

In recognition of the contributions servicemen and women have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Board of Directors honored and recognized Sunday, November 11, 2018, as Veterans Day.

To celebrate the economic and environmental value of recycling, the Board of Directors proclaimed Saturday, November 10, 2018, as America Recycles Day in The Woodlands, Texas.

In support of local small businesses and the contributions they make to our local economy and community, the Board of Directors proclaimed Saturday, November 24, 2018, as Small Business Saturday in The Woodlands, Texas.

The Board of Directors also recently:

• Awarded a bid for swimming pool chemicals.

• Approved changes to the Special Events Permitting Policy to address commercial fireworks displays.

• Awarded bids for Park Maintenance Services, Pathway Maintenance Services and for Cul-de-Sac Islands Maintenance.

• Approved a First Amendment to Alpha & Omega Services Inc. Royal Courtesy Mounted Patrol Agreement.

• Approved Acoustical Wall Panels for the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.

• Approved a Naming Rights/ Sponsorship Agreement for the Tri The Woodlands event.

• Tabled a Resolution regarding the Research Forest Drive and Grogan’s Mill Road underpass.

• Deferred action on Phases Three and Four of the Communication Towers project.

• Received quarterly updates on Law Enforcement from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Montgomery County Constable Precinct 3 and Harris County Constable Precinct 4.

• Approved the 2018 Budget Amendment related to 2017 Developer Capital Budget Carryovers.

• Deferred action on audio visual improvement requests from the Development Standards Committee.

• Deferred action on a request to assemble in the Town Hall Parking Lot for a public prayer rally.

• Approved the name of the adventure course at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.

• Approved a grant application to the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) for a Park and Ride pilot program route to the Energy Corridor.

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAY FUN WITH

Theholidays are fast approaching, which means your children will be enjoying a break from school. Register now for Sunny Dayz Camp for Christmas Break! 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.

AGES: 6 – 12 years

TEEN CAMP: 13 – 15 years

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

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

CHRISTMAS BREAK: December 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 31, 2018; January 2, 3, 4, 2019; January 7, 8, 2019 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.

Give a second life to your clean,

clothing, books, toys,

and appliances by donating them to local

organizations. Items should be in good, useable condition. Drop off

during listed times, or call for pickup.

INTERFAITH

Holiday Recycling AND TRASH SERVICE

In observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays, there will be no solid waste collection services on Tuesday, December 25, 2018, or Tuesday, January 1, 2019. All services are affected—trash, recycling, yard trimmings, bulk pick-up and Simple Recycling (orange textile bags). The chart below shows when service will be provided.

Regular Collection Day

Monday December 24 / December 31

Holiday Collection Day

Monday December 24 / December 31

Tuesday December 25 / January 1 Wednesday December 26 / January 2

Wednesday December 26 / January 2 Thursday December 27 / January 3

Thursday December 27 / January 3 Friday December 28 / January 4

Friday December 28 / January 4

Saturday December 29 / January 5

If

Recycle Holiday Boxes and Wrappings

If your recycling cart is full, take advantage of special holiday recycling. On the first service day following December 25, 2018, in each village, additional cardboard boxes, gift boxes and wrapping paper will be picked up for recycling.

• Break down smaller gift and mailing boxes to consolidate into one box.

• Put extra paper wrappings in a paper bag or small box.

• Place bags and boxes at the curb next to the recycling cart.

• The holiday recycling truck is reserved only for recyclables.

– NO plastic bags

– NO Styrofoam™

– NO bubble wrap

– NO ribbon, decorations or Christmas lights

• Failure to follow guidelines will result in items being left at the curb.

Cut Christmas Tree Recycling –Unflocked Trees Only

• Remove all decorations and lights from tree.

By Zoe Killian

• Remove tree stands.

• Place the tree at the curb on your regular service day.

• Green trees will be picked up by the yard trimming truck as part of your regularly scheduled services.

Flocked Christmas Tree Disposal

• Schedule as bulk/heavy pick up by calling Waste Management Customer Service at 800-800-5804.

• Call at least two working days before your regular service day.

• Flocked Christmas trees must be landfilled.

Extra Trash

• Requires purchase of a pink extra service tag for $1.75 per tag.

• Purchase tags from The Woodlands Township offices, Kroger (Cochran’s Crossing, Alden Bridge and Sterling Ridge) and Randall’s (Grogan’s Mill and Panther Creek).

• Attach one tag per bag.

• Each bag must weigh less than 40 pounds.

Helpful Reminders

The Woodlands Recycling Center is not affected by the holiday. Business hours are as usual.

• Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

• Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Missed Pick-ups

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

Recycling Unusable Textiles

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

On the first service day following December 25, 2018, additional cardboard boxes, gift boxes and wrapping paper will be picked up for recycling in each village.

December 2018

Saturday, December 1

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

8 a.m. to noon

AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider CPR class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

281-210-5820

Composting Class

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services Facility 8203 Millennium Forest Drive 10 to 11 a.m.

281-210-3800

Creekside Campout

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive Noon to 10 a.m.

281-516-7348

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center

2005 Lake Robbins Drive 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, December 3

Baby Time

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive 10 a.m. to noon

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.

Tuesday, December 4

Toddler Time

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive 10 a.m. to noon

281-210-3950

*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.

Wednesday, December 5

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

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

Thursday, December 6

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider CPR Class Renewal

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 IH-45 South 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. 281-210-5820

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Friday, December 7

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive 7 to 9:45 p.m. 281-210-3950

Saturday, December 8

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

AHA Heartsaver CPR AED class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-5820

AHA Heartsaver First Aid class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820

Tuesday, December 11

AHA Basic Life Support for Healthcare Provider CPR Class Renewal

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

6 to 10 p.m.

281-210-5820

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, December 13

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, December 14

Flashlight Candy Cane HuntTerramont Park

8500 Terramont Drive

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Let It Snow BINGO Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

6:30 to 8 p.m.

281-516-7348

Saturday, December 15

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

AHA Heartsaver CPR AED class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

9 a.m. to noon

281-210-5820

AHA Heartsaver First Aid class

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 IH-45 South

12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

281-210-5820

Breakfast with Santa

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

10 to 11:30 a.m.

281-516-7348

Gingerbread House Making with Santa

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

1 to 2 p.m.

281-516-7348

Elf Tryouts - The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

3 to 5 p.m.

281-516-7348

Flashlight Candy Cane HuntThe Lodge at Rob Fleming Park

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

281-516-7348

Sunday, December 16

North Pole Bakery

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive

1 to 2:30 p.m.

281-210-3950

Elf Tryouts - The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

3 to 5 p.m.

281-516-7348

Feliz Navi-Dog

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive 3 to 4 p.m.

281-210-3950

Monday, December 17

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

Wednesday, December 19

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau

Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

Thursday, December 20

Flashlight Candy Cane HuntTerramont Park

Terramont Park 8500 Terramont Drive

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

281-516-7348

50+ Dance Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

6:30 to 9 p.m.

281-516-7348

Friday, December 21

Santa Social

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 to 9 p.m.

281-516-7348

Saturday, December 22

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

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

Breakfast with Santa

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 10 to 11:30 a.m.

281-516-7348

Milk and Cookies with Santa

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 1 to 2 p.m.

281-516-7348

Elves and Arrows

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

281-516-7348

Flashlight Candy Cane HuntThe Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

281-516-7348

Monday, December 24

Township Offices Closed

Tuesday, December 25

Township Offices Closed

Saturday, December 29

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

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

Alden Bridge

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas… but it’s going to be another magical month in The Woodlands even without the snow. We truly have one of the best places to live during the holidays. We always stress safety, but especially this month when so many things are tempting to criminals. Stay safe and be aware of your surroundings while you’re out and about. Use the Sheriff’s Department Vacation Watch if you’re taking a holiday vacation. Don’t forget to lock your doors and don’t leave any packages visible in the car when you go shopping. Most of our car burglaries occur when parked cars are left unlocked.

We take a little holiday from our monthly board/residents meeting in December, so the next meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on January 8, 2019, at the Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our guest speaker hasn’t been confirmed yet, so please watch our Facebook page, website and email newsletter for this information.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Yes, it’s time again for the Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Alden Bridge has some of The Woodlands’ most beautifully decorated homes. Judges will view each home in our village between December 10 and 17, 2018, so be sure to leave your lights on every night so we don’t miss your hard work. We’ll select one Best Home and one Best Neighborhood/group of homes, and winners will be awarded between 6 and 8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 18, 2018.

We wouldn’t have a village association without a bunch of enthusiastic volunteers, including our board members and members of the Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC). Please consider joining us! It’s a great way to give back to your community, and we have fun, too. Village elections are held

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

in February, and filing begins later this month. In 2019, we’ll elect 10 at-large Area Representatives for two-year terms, plus five RDRC members for one-year terms. The Township website is your source for information and filing forms.

Joining our electronic mailing list allows you to receive our monthly newsletter – just send your email address to aldenbridge@gmail.com. We promise not to share your address. Please visit our website, www.aldenbridge.org, and like our very active Facebook page.

Our most heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to our village association in any way during 2018 –with special thanks to all of our event and program sponsors! Your support is much appreciated, and we look forward to working with you again in 2019. We have a very active sponsor program, and if your business would like to sponsor us (money goes to scholarships), please contact aldenbridge@gmail.com.

Best wishes to all for the merriest holiday season!

Submitted by Darla D. Bell

College Park

The Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest is an anticipated tradition here in The Woodlands. College Park judges will be out and about starting on the evening of December 8, 2018. Get your lights up early and turn them on in the early evening for your chance to participate in the contest. There are two awards given for each village: Best Home and Best Neighborhood (broadly defined as a cul de sac or street). Winners will receive a surprise visit to their home on Thursday, December 13, 2018, when we hand out awards.

The Water-Wise Village Challenge is on again for 2018-2019. Sign up and pledge to turn off your sprinklers until

April. By participating, you earn points for College Park. Cash awards are given to each village based on points. In College Park, these funds are used to provide a college scholarship for a student who resides in one of our neighborhoods. These funds can also support other activities that you enjoy free of charge throughout the year such as the Spooktacular in October and the Poolooza in May! Take the pledge to conserve water at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment.

Get involved and have fun!

Village Association elections will happen in February 2019. If you are interested in becoming a Village Representative, please plan to attend our January meeting and learn more about what we do for the residents of College Park, which includes Harper’s Landing, Windsor Hills and Grogan’s Forest. For additional information, please visit our website at www.villageofcollegepark.com or join us on Facebook.

During this holiday season, please be safe and report any suspicious activity you see to law enforcement. It is increasingly apparent that when citizens report what they see, there is a better chance that the suspect can be apprehended by law enforcement.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Creekside Park

Season’s Greetings, Creekside Park Village! It’s December and the holiday events have begun in Creekside Park and throughout The Woodlands. Holiday programs are listed in The Woodlands Township Fall 2018 Action Guide, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ actionguide.

If the holidays find you out of town, don’t forget to utilize the Vacation Watch Program offered by the Harris County Precinct 4 Constables, www.constablepct4.com/vacation-watch-

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

request.html. This is a valuable service offered by our Precinct 4 Constable’s Office. When you sign up for a watch while you are away, you ensure your house is looked after several times a day. This also increases the presence of our local law enforcement in the area. This added presence is a great asset to residents in the community who are staying in town for the holidays, as it deters unwanted activity in the area. A special thank you to all the men and women of Precinct 4 for all they do to protect and serve the residents of Creekside Park.

The Creekside Park Village Association Board will be conducting our annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest this month. We encourage all residents to join the holiday spirit as we look forward to driving through the village to see all the wonderful holiday displays. Look for the full details of the contest posted on the Creekside Park Facebook page and on our website. Start stringing up those lights!

January will be here before you know it and that means it is time to mark your calendars for January 19, 2019, to attend Creekside Park Village Association’s biggest event, the annual Winter Festival. The event is fun for kids of all ages and free to all residents. Watch for details as they are finalized in the January issue of The Woodlands Community Magazine and on our Facebook page and website.

Look for more information and happenings in Creekside Park Village on our Facebook Page or on our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com. We look forward to seeing you at our monthly meetings held the first Tuesday of every month, except when noted, at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park.

Until next year, be safe and Happy Holidays!

Submitted by Lisa Purtell

Indian Springs

The primary purpose of the Indian Springs Village Association is to promote the health, safety, common good and welfare of the residents of the village and to aid, benefit and promote plans and recommendations relating to the physical, social or cultural development of The Woodlands. In order to ensure our residents are informed of events and efforts affecting them, we’ve enhanced our website and Facebook page.

Check

We added several new features to the website, www.indianspringsvillage.com, such as Community Announcements on the home page which includes upcoming events, Woodlands Alerts, Board Meeting Details and Lost/Found Pets. We’ve also included sections that focus on Village Activities and Resident Information. For Village Activities, you can stay updated about details related to the Taste of the Village, Community Service Scholarship, Holiday Lighting Contest, Surrounding School Support, Parade Information and more. If you are looking for details on emergency preparedness, transportation, general announcements or useful community links, then the Resident Information section can help.

Since a number of residents are on Facebook, we have expanded our presence by sharing neighborhood events, general information, pictures and announcements at www.facebook.com/ IndianSpringsVillage/. Facebook posts

continued on page 25

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

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. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

REGISTER NOW FOR Spring Programs

The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department coordinates a wide variety of programs for its residents every year. Whether you’re interested in archery, tennis or even log rolling, we’ve got you covered. Registration for all spring activities opens in mid-December. You can register in person by visiting The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, or by calling 281-210-3950 (Bear Branch) or 281-516-7348 (Rob Fleming). You can also register online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/signupforfun.

PERFECT FOR LANDSCAPES AND GIFTING

Ghost Plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense) is an easy-to-grow succulent filled with possibilities. Native to the northeast Mexico state of Tamaulipas that borders Texas, Ghost Plant has adapted easily to our hot southeast Texas climate. This greyish green succulent is one of the most cold-hardy members of the vast succulent family. During the successive freezes in 2018, this plant continued to thrive and survive.

Succulents are plants that store water for times when water is unavailable. Ghost Plant is a leaf succulent with stored water available at all times in its fleshy, pointed leaves. The common name “Ghost Plant” is due to the powdery coating (pruinose) which provides a ghostly mauve blue appearance. The plant’s brittle stems may become quite lengthy, extending beyond the edges of beds and containers. Each stem is topped by a beautiful pale grey rosette of leaves. Providing attractive winter interest, Ghost Plant changes color with climate conditions. The plant’s color can range from pale blue grey in bright shade

to yellowish pink in full sun. This droughttolerant succulent blooms in late winter to early spring, enhancing its appearance with tiny white star-shaped blooms sprinkled intermittently with dark red.

Versatility is the central asset of the Ghost Plant. It thrives in containers, hanging baskets, half baskets mounted on a wall, as a semi-prostrate ground cover in well-drained soil or even near a water feature. In its mature state, Ghost Plant is a stunning accent with its trailing stems and beautiful rosettes cascading over the edge of the pot. It is equally at home in a rock garden or growing indoors as a house plant. Small baby Ghost Plants are perfect for use in the highly popular miniature or “fairy” gardens.

Care

Caring for this plant is easy if the planting bed or container is well-drained. Ghost Plant does not tolerate wet roots. Potting soil should be a mix of compost, sand, grit or perlite and use a container with an ample drainage hole. Water only when the soil is completely dry to the touch.

One of the easiest succulents to propagate, the simplest method of growing new plants is to cut the rosette from the stem, leaving the stem in place. Allow the severed rosette to air dry for a few days in order for the cut to form a callous. Pot the rosette in a separate pot. The stem will grow new rosettes within a few months.

Holiday Uses

Ghost Plant is memorable as a “pass along” gift for friends or relatives. “Pass along” plants are plants that root easily, thrive in many conditions and delight the recipient. Try Ghost Plant as a place marker at a holiday meal, a party favor, a component of a succulent wreath or in a combination planting of numerous types of succulents.

As the noted garden personality Felder Rushing states, “Pass along plants are a living reminder of the person who passed along the plant and are easy to grow.” Try growing Ghost Plant. Pass it along to others. In doing so, you will create a beautiful memory.

Photo by Ann Hall

By Ann Hall

By TJ Shannon

Reach Your Health Goals AT THE TOWNSHIP FITNESS CENTERS

Jumpstart your journey to fitness with a membership to The Woodlands Township Fitness Centers.

Offering two locations for the price of one, the workout facilities include cardio machines, free weights and resistance machines.

Bear Branch

The start of a new year will soon be here. That means it’s time to make that lifestyle change and break through the barriers to reach your health and fitness goals. The Woodlands Township offers two great fitness centers for one great price! Workout rooms are complete with cardiovascular machines, free weights and resistance machines. We have various membership options that will fit your needs from monthly to yearly, and memberships are valid for use at both locations.

Locations and Hours

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-210-3950

Monday through Thursday: .............................. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389 281-516-7348

Monday through Thursday: .............................. 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday: ............................................................... 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Membership Rates

Daily Rate: $6

Resident Monthly Membership: $20

Resident 6-Month Membership: $60

Resident 1-Year Membership:............................................. $120

Resident 1-Year Senior Membership (55 and Up): .............. $80

Non-resident rates are available with additional fees.

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

Rob Fleming

TRAILBLAZING CARE

For more than 60 years, we’ve pushed boundaries and explored new territory in our quest to provide the best care for kids Today, we’ve got families covered, whether you need cutting-edge treatment, emergency care, convenient subspecialty pediatric care, or a trusted urgent care or primary care provider With Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands right in your neck of the woods, you’ll find us here when you need us.

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

A Message from Children’s Safe Harbor

Combined, Montgomery, San Jacinto, and Walker counties receive more than 3,000 reports per year of children who have been harmed by sexual and/ or physical abuse. In the past, victims seeking help faced multiple contacts with different community professionals, which created a maze of confusion and distress for the child and the family. Children’s Safe Harbor has changed all of that.

Children’s Safe Harbor’s mission is to protect and enhance the life of every child who has the courage to battle sexual and physical abuse. With a team of community and professional agencies united, Children’s Safe Harbor is committed to counsel the mind and heal the body of brave children and prosecute the offenders of the youngest and most vulnerable victims of our society.

The goal of Children’s Safe Harbor is to reduce the trauma of child victims and their non-offending caregivers by facilitating a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary team approach to intervention, investigation, prosecution and treatment of child sexual and severe physical abuse.

In the spirit of keeping all children safe, Children’s Safe Harbor provides the following information to help make a safer holiday for all.

The 5 Steps to Protecting Our Children™ Holiday Edition

1. Learn The Facts – More than 80 percent of child sexual abuse incidents happen in isolated, one-on-one situations.

2. Minimize Opportunity – Make sure play is observable and interruptible. Keep bedroom doors open, and discourage kids from wandering off alone.

3. Talk About It – Tell your kids they have the right to say NO if someone makes them uncomfortable, and encourage them to come to you for help or support.

4. React Responsibly – Set behavioral limits that reinforce your child’s physical boundaries. If an adult or child crosses those limits, correct the issue and remove your child to a safe situation.

By Tyler Little

Moms, come enjoy a fun game of putt-putt and an evening of memories with your boys! Mother-Son Date Night will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, January 25, 2019, at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Chick-Fil-A nuggets and salads will be provided for dinner. This event will be a wonderful opportunity to bond and create special memories that will last a lifetime.

All ages are welcome. The fee is $40 for the pair and $10 for each additional sibling. Come dressed comfortably and bring your competitive spirit. Participants will play our course that twists and turns through all areas of the recreation center.

For more information, please call 281-210-3950 or 281-516-7348. To register online, please visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun.

VILLAGE NEWS

– continued from page 19

include announcements related to traffic impacts due to weather or community events, volunteer opportunities and reminders about meetings with elected officials. Residents can also share relevant information with others.

We also took advantage of Facebook’s advertising capabilities. To grow the Indian Springs scholarship fund for 2019, we needed increased attendance at our annual Taste of the Village. By sponsoring targeted advertising to increase awareness, we reached more residents than in the past, with well over 4,600 views, numerous shares and hundreds of likes.

We invite you to check out both resources and provide meaningful feedback about how we can better serve you and your neighbors. We would also like to thank Tripp McOmber for leading efforts to make relevant information more accessible to our community.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Avoid Common Senior Scams and Frauds

By Holly Steinke

Scams seem to be nonstop and many of them start up again with a new twist. Below is some information about common scams along with some tips to prevent you from becoming a victim.

IRS Scams

Victims are told by a caller that they owe money to the IRS and it must be paid promptly through a gift card or wire transfer. Victims may be threatened with arrest, deportation or suspension of a business or driver’s license. Sometimes “urgent” callback requests are made to try to get people to call the caller, if they didn’t answer.

What You Can Do

Do not answer the phone from callers you don’t recognize. Even numbers that may be similar to your number may be “spoofed” or changed to look like a familiar number or name of one you might answer. Keep in mind that the IRS, utilities and other businesses won’t want gift cards in payment and would contact you first by mail to notify you of a problem. Also, according to local deputies, law enforcement won’t warn you that they are going to arrest

you. If there was a legitimate reason to arrest you, they would come to your door. Never provide a caller with your credit or debit card numbers over the phone, since you aren’t initiating the transaction. Search websites such as www.irs.gov and www.fbi.gov for more scam-related information and help.

Here are some additional tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help avoid government scams from www.ftc.gov:

• Never give out or confirm personal information over the phone, via email or on a website until you have verified the authenticity of the request.

• Do not trust a name, phone number or email address just because it seems to be connected with the government. Con artists use official-sounding names and may fake caller ID or email address information to gain your trust. Keep in mind that the government normally contacts people by postal mail.

• Contact government agencies directly, using telephone numbers and website addresses you know to be legitimate.

Bank Frauds

In this scenario, it appears as though your bank is calling or emailing you to alert you of a problem with your account. They want you to provide them with your account number and other items of personal information.

What You Can Do

Avoid answering calls from unknown numbers. If you do answer a call from someone claiming to be your “bank” regarding a problem with your account, you can always contact the bank directly by using the number on your credit card or your statement to verify if the call is real. Don’t call back the number they give you, since you won’t know if the call is really going to the bank. The bank has your banking information, so avoid giving out your personal information to unexpected callers. If you call your bank directly, then you can be assured that there is no problem or work with them directly to fix a problem, if it exists. Also, many banks and credit card companies post fraud prevention tips on their websites for review.

Computer Fixes

In this scam, it appears as though someone from Apple, Microsoft or another software company is calling to inform you that there are malware or viruses on your computer and that they will fix it for you. You may receive a pop up on your computer that’s not from your security software. Either may require you to pay money by a gift card to supposedly fix your computer.

What You Can Do

Never let someone who calls you access your computer remotely. Local detectives report that if you give access to your computer, the callers can put malware on your computer and then claim to be removing it. Keep security software up to date and find a reputable computer repair person to remove any viruses. Don’t give access to your computer to someone who

Stay safe from scams and fraud attempts this holiday season and throughout the year by following these tips from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program.

contacts you by phone or email. Also, don’t rush to provide payment by gift cards. Visit www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0346-techsupport-scams for more information.

Romance Scams

A person contacts you through an online dating service or online and develops a relationship with you on the computer. Eventually, they ask for money for travel to visit you. However, they never actually come. Typically, they find more and more reasons to avoid meeting and to request money be sent to them, such as a business dealing gone wrong, jail, illness, family illness, etc.

What You Can Do

Stay cautious about initiating an online relationship, since people are not always who they seem to be. It’s best to meet in a public place. If they rush you to send money or encourage you to meet them somewhere you don’t feel safe, then trust your instincts and avoid that situation. Visit www.fbi.gov/news/stories/ romance-scams for more details.

Grandparent Scams

A caller claims to be a grandchild in trouble who needs money sent to them for an emergency, such as being in jail in Mexico. They want you to act fast and wire them money and avoid contacting their parents.

What You Can Do

When they greet you on the phone, avoid saying something like, “Is that you, Billy?” or whatever the grandchild’s name is. Hang up if you think it’s a fraud, or ask a question that only your grandchild would know. Also, check on the status of the grandchild or their other family members. If they rush you to send money, remember to avoid doing that. They’ll find other things to ask you for and you could lose a lot. This article from AARP offers further tips to stay safe: www.aarp.org/money/scams-fraud/info2018/grandparent-scam-scenarios.html.

If you are victim of a scam or fraud, please contact your local law enforcement office to report the crime.

• Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 936-442-7797, option 3

• Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4 (Village of Creekside Park) 281-376-3472

Other Scams and Frauds

• You can’t pay a fee to get your new Medicare card earlier.

• You shouldn’t donate money to a charity without researching it first.

• You should avoid using a gas pump that isn’t sealed properly, since it may have a skimmer inside.

Visit www.bbb.org/scamtips/ and click on 10 Steps to Avoid Scams for even more tips on how to protect yourself. To learn more about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, please follow the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TownshipNeighborhoodWatch or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch.

Give Nature a Gift

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

By Kendall Clark

This holiday season, let the spirit of giving include your landscape and help nature flourish. These do-it-yourself projects are easy and fun for the whole family.

Gift of Habitat

One of the best ways you can give back to your landscape is with native plants. The benefits of going native are many, but perhaps the most important one is that they increase biodiversity by supporting native wildlife (including pollinators). Non-natives just can’t compete. There are many native plants that help feed our wildlife, but here are a few that are suitable to The Woodlands.

Gift of Food

Treat your backyard birds this winter with homemade holiday treats.

Seed ornaments are easy to make and add a holiday touch to your backyard— while they last.

PINECONE TREATS

You will need:

• String

• Pinecones

• Peanut butter

• Bird seed, in bowl

Steps:

1. Gently brush off any debris or dirt from gathered pinecones.

2. Tie a piece of string securely around pinecone, leaving enough for hanging.

3. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on the pinecone.

4. Roll the pinecone in the bird seed until well covered.

5. Hang your treats on a feeder, hanger or tree branch and watch the birds enjoy the feast.

Get creative:

Add popcorn, rolled oats, chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the mix to make your own variations that birds will love.

Gift of Shelter

Build a bee house to give our bees a place to stay. Bee houses provide shelter for solitary bees native to Texas. Unlike honeybees and bumblebees, solitary bees do not defend their nest sites, and tend to be small and less frequently observed. They include leaf-cutter bees, mason bees, mining bees, squash bees and sunflower bees.

Water Oak

Southern Red Oak

Shumard Oak

Drummond’s Red

Maple

Sugarberry (Hackberry)

Mexican Plum

Parsley Hawthorn

Roughleaf Dogwood

Possumhaw

Yaupon Holly

Arrowwood Viburnum

Rusty Blackhaw

Viburnum

Turk’s Cap

American Beautyberry

Wax Myrtle

Blazing Star Milkweed

Coneflower

Blue Sage

Lanceleaf Coreopsis

Indian Blanket

NATIVE BEE HOUSE

You will need:

• Untreated wood for the frame

• Untreated wood blocks or logs, up to 7 inches in length

Bee houses provide shelter for solitary bees native to Texas.

American Beautyberry is a native plant that supports native wildlife in Texas.

Help the birds stay healthy and well fed this winter with seed ornaments. Photo by Phil Kahler

• Bamboo canes, up to 7 inches in length, with openings 2mm – 10 mm

• Commercial cardboard bee tubes (available online)

Steps:

1. Construct the box with wood, open on one side and with a sloping roof to let the rain drain off.

2. Prepare your blocks of wood by drilling holes of varying diameter (2mm to 10mm). Do not drill all the way through the wood, leaving a closed tunnel, no longer than 7 inches.

3. Smooth the box edges and open ends in wood blocks with sand paper, leaving no splinters.

4. Assemble hollow bamboo sticks, trimmed to 7 inches with cuts just below a joint (the joint provides a block). Drill though all blocks except for the last one. Holes should not exceed 10mm.

5. Clean off all sawdust, and place in a sunny location, at least a yard above ground.

6. Fix it to a sunny fence, wall or a post, at least three feet above ground.

Gift of Water

Add a birdbath to your back yard. Water is one of the most important things birders can add to their backyard to attract birds.

January 12, 2019 • 1 PM

Meet administrators, tour campus and learn more about applying for the 2019-20 year.

Traditional educational practices combined with innovative programs teach students to become critical and creative thinkers, effective communicators, responsible citizens and leaders, and lifetime learners.

Birdbaths should be shallow, with water no deeper than 0.5 to 1 inch at the edges, sloping to a maximum of 2 inches deep in the middle of the bath. Different heights provide water to different backyard visitors: higher (about 30 inches) are right for birds, and low (up to six inches) or ground-level are good for wildlife and birds as well. Give

LOOKING AHEAD: 2019 INITIATIVES

A Message from Visit The Woodlands

As2018 comes to a close, the Visit The Woodlands team has met and communicated with thousands of meeting planners, travel writers and industry experts.

Since launching the new branding campaign in late 2018, The Woodlands is well-positioned as a leading travel destination for both leisure and business travelers. In 2019, Visit The Woodlands plans to share a new vision and enhanced experiences with leisure and meeting visitors alike. With a unique and captivating environment, the look and feel of The Woodlands will continue to surprise travelers with its charm and ease.

This year’s elevated creative positioning, well-defined marketing initiatives and emphasis on core audiences will drive three main strategic initiatives for 2019:

Partnerships and Collaboration

In the travel and tourism industry, partnerships are the key to success for destinations. Visit The Woodlands will strive to strengthen relationships and engagement between core hoteliers, businesses, meeting planners, regional CVBs and organizations that align to The Woodlands’ growth initiatives.

Showcase the Brand

To fully utilize the new creative concept and photography that was completed at the end of the summer, Visit The Woodlands will continue to share this new brand campaign with audiences. This new outlook on how to spread The Woodlands’ message more accurately reflects the character of The Woodlands than any previous campaign. It truly outlines everything The Woodlands can offer its leisure visitors and meeting planners looking to book business.

Increase Retail Spending and Support Room Absorption

Grow overall retail spending through audience engagement by offering targeted content and curated experiences only The Woodlands can offer its visitors, as well as supporting current room absorption and improve off-peak timeframes. By increasing the number of visitors to The Woodlands, retail spending is also expected to rise, which in turn makes an economic contribution to The Woodlands Township via retail sales tax.

Visit The Woodlands is committed to our continued success in booking conferences and hosting travel writers and remains dedicated to bringing future business and leisure travelers to The Woodlands, while maintaining the sense of home that the residents of The Woodlands enjoy.

Take a Break from Yard Care: Lawns are at Rest for Winter

By Bob Dailey

With Christmas right around the corner and the National Weather Service predicting a cooler and wetterthan-average winter for east and south Texas, the next few months might be the perfect time to sit before the fire with a good book and a warm drink.

During the cooler weather, you might have to take some of your more subtropical and tropical potted plants indoors, but you shouldn’t have to worry about your lawn.

Lawn Dormancy

Warm season grass goes dormant during the cooler months. That doesn’t mean it is dead. It does mean that the grass blades turn yellowish or even brown during the winter months. That’s because the grass plants are shifting their growth from above to below the ground. This is when St. Augustine and other warm season turf grasses build their root systems. Good root systems built during the cooler months mean stronger and more disease- and pest-resistant plants in the spring.

Good soil practices

Taking care of your lawn is a process. We’ve all heard the phrase, “Don’t put a $10 plant into a $1 hole.” What that means is that for any plant –turf grass included – the soil must be

SAVE THE DATE FOR

Mark your calendars for a fun-filled morning with The Woodlands Township at our annual Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, February 23, 2019, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. The event will include a noise-free, sensory-friendly hour from 9 to 10 a.m. Get up close and personal with all kinds of big trucks, fancy off-road mudders and various first responder vehicles! Families can take photos in and around all vehicles and kids can get messy in the “Construction Zone” play area. The event is free for all ages with no registration required!

In the event of inclement weather on the day of the event, please call 281-210-3950 or 281-516-7348.

fertile, full of beneficial microbes and must provide a nutritious environment for plants to generate new roots and expand existing root systems.

To create good soil conditions, homeowners must make sure that the soil beneath their lawn is healthy. Residents will find valuable lawn care information on The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency website at wjpa.org.

Since increased precipitation is expected, there should be little or no reason to water lawns during the winter and early spring (late February and early March along the Gulf Coast). In fact, last year, our systems indicated that lawns needed no irrigation during the entire winter period.

Note: This article was provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, www.wjpa.org.

This is what a winter lawn looks like in our part of Texas.