December 2009

The Woodlands

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

December 2009 • Vol. 13 Issue 12

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Community Associations of The Woodlands, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to all association members.

Features

6 Fun and Festivities for the Season

7 Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest

8 Holiday Recycling and Trash Service

10 Holiday Events at The Woodlands Town Center

12 Balancing Nature, Nesting and Neighbors

21 Compost Classes

22 Buy Recycled Boutique Opens

24 Forever Green

CO-InTeRIM GeneRAL MAnAGeRS

John powers

Alan Benson

eDITOR

Mary Connell

COPy eDITORS

Elena Smith

Laura Garvey

eDITORIAL ASSISTAnT

Terri Jefferies

Advertising inquiries, rate requests and change of address/delivery inquiries may be directed to Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G, Houston, TX 77069, 281.583.7661.

PReSIDenT, PUBLISHeR

James E. Callahan, Jr.

ACCOUnT eXeCUTIveS

Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

CReATIve DIReCTOR

Lori Short

GRAPHIC DeSIGneRS

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

Editorial inquiries may be directed to Community Associations of The Woodlands, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 773877859, 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 Community Associations of The Woodlands and focuses on information related to the community associations and The Woodlands community at large. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the activities of their community association and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the associations takes precedence over information submitted by any other source.

photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome.

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. you also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. you also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. They may be submitted to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859. For more information, please call 281.210.3800.

28 Start the New Year Out Right: Get to Know Your Neighbors

31 Take a Kayak Point of View

Monthly

3 Boards in Action: Community Associations of The Woodlands Transition to The Woodlands Township

5 Community Associations Quick Reference

5 Spotlight on Superior Service: Boards of Directors

16 Calendar of Events

17 Holiday Garbage Collection Schedule

18 The Woodlands Village News

20 The Woodlands Village Leaders

On the Cover

The Woodlands Town Center is filled with holiday lights and activities during this festive season. Please see the articles on pages 6, 10 and 11 for just a few of the many festivities.

Did You Know?

This magazine is provided free of charge to Woodlands residents who are members of one of the Community Associations 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.

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a past recipient of The Communicator Award of Distinction and the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators.

The Woodlands Community Association Board of Directors

Jeff Long, President

At-Large, Pos. #15 281.210.3804

Tom Campbell, Vice President

At-Large, Pos. #5 281.367.5200

Deborah Sargeant, Vice President Grogan’s Mill, Pos. #9 281.210.3804

Stuart Schroeder, Treasurer Cochran’s Crossing Pos. #3 281.210.3804

Rich Jakovac, Secretary Panther Creek Pos. #10 281.362.8757

George Van Horn

Grogan’s Mill, Pos. #1 281.210.3800

Everett Ison Panther Creek, Pos. #2 281.298.9524

Royce Christian Indian Springs, Pos. #4 281.367.2025

Richard Derr Appointed, Pos. #8 281.719.6100

Bruce Tough Cochran’s Crossing, Pos. #11 281.681.0808

John Leftwich Indian Springs, Pos. #12 281.210.3804

Skeeter Hubert At-Large, Pos. #13 281.465.0718

Walter Cooke

At-Large, Pos. #14 281.296.8877

The Woodlands Association Board of Directors

Joel Deretchin, President 281.719.6107

Lloyd Matthews, Vice President 281.296.9618

Claude Hunter, Vice President 936.273.6604

Anthony Fasone, Treasurer 281.362.8028

Randy Davis, Asst. Treasurer 281.719.6331

Ted Stanley, Secretary 936.321.5996

Arthur Bredehoft, Asst. Secretary 281.296.9204

Buck Driggers 281.719.6100

Robert Bruce 281.719.6100

Susan Vreeland-Wendt 281.719.6100

The Woodlands Commercial Owners Association Board of Directors

Joel Deretchin, President 281.719.6107

Dan Leverett, Vice President 281.719.6142

Boyd Burdett, Vice President 281.210.3804

Steve Sanders, Treasurer and Asst. Secretary 281.364.2309

Greg Jordan, Secretary 281.719.6189

Photo by Mary Connell

Community Associations of The Woodlands Transition to The Woodlands Township

As2009 comes to an end, so, too, do the Community Associations of The Woodlands.

Interested in finding out more about The Woodlands Community Association? Come to the semi-monthly board meetings, usually held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each

Serving

of Alden Bridge, Sterling Ridge, Carlton Woods, Indian Springs

of Falconwing

Interested in finding out more about The Woodlands Association? Come to the monthly board meeting, usually held the fourth Thursday of each month, 7:30 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Interested in finding out more about The Woodlands Commercial Owners Association? Meetings are called as needed and are usually held at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. For more information, please call 281.210.3800, or visit the Web site at www.thewoodlandsassociations.org. Agendas are posted under “Meetings.”

Having served The Woodlands since 1974, the Community Associations will officially transition all services and operations to The Woodlands Township on January 1, 2010. These services include police and fire protection, garbage and recycling collection, parks and pathway maintenance, streetscape maintenance, covenant enforcement, recreation programming and this magazine.

The Community Associations have been a part of The Woodlands since the beginning. The Woodlands Community Association was formed in 1974 – the same year as the official grand opening of The Woodlands – to provide municipal-type services to the new community. In 1992, The Woodlands Association was formed to serve the new villages and the growing population.

The Woodlands Township began in 1993 as the Town Center Improvement District (TCID). It was originally created by the Texas legislature as a governmental agency charged with promoting economic development in The Woodlands Town Center, a 1,000-acre business and commerce district.

In 2007, the passage of three propositions by voters in The Woodlands expanded the area under TCID’s authority to include The Woodlands’ entire 28,000-acre residential and commercial area. The governmental organization was then renamed The Woodlands Township.

That same year, the Township’s Board of Directors also unanimously approved a Regional Participation Agreement (RPA) with the cities of Houston and Conroe, preventing annexation of The Woodlands by the cities of Houston and Conroe, and allowing residents of The Woodlands to determine their own future governance structure. In order to further streamline the delivery of services to residents, services provided through the Community Associations of The Woodlands will transition to The Woodlands Township in January and will be supported by an ad valorem property tax, instead of the homeowner’s association assessment fees.

In the year 2010, with a population of more than 90,000, The Woodlands will continue to grow and prosper. Services and operations of the Community Associations will transition to The Woodlands Township, ultimately providing a seamless consolidation of most of the governmental services provided to residents of The Woodlands into a single, community-wide, governmental organization.

Over the years, it would have been impossible for the Community Associations to function without the community. The Associations have benefitted from the knowledge and assistance of many – leaders, employees and volunteers – who have given their time and talents to the betterment of the company and The Woodlands. We thank you for your dedication, and we look forward to the future of The Woodlands under the leadership of The Woodlands Township.

If you have questions about the transition, please visit The Woodlands Township Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click Ask the Township on the main page. Questions may also be sent to The Woodlands Township, 10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380.

Left to right: John Leftwich, Everett Ison, Royce Christian, Walter Cooke, Skeeter Hubert, Bruce Tough, Deborah Sargeant, Jeff Long, Rich Jakovac, George Van Horn, Tom Campbell, Stuart Schroeder, Richard Derr.

Left to right: Greg Jordan, Dan Leverett, Joel Deretchin, Steve Sanders, Boyd Burdett

Serving residents of Grogan’s Mill, Panther Creek, Cochran’s Crossing, and Indian Springs (east of Falconwing Drive)

month, 7 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive.

Left to right, standing: Buck Driggers, Randy Davis, Arthur Bredehoft, Debra Staley, Robert Bruce, Anthony Fasone,Ted Stanley. Left to right, seated: Lloyd Matthews, Joel Deretchin, Claude Hunter. Not pictured: Susan Vreeland-Wendt.

residents

(west

Drive), Creekside Park, Lake Woodlands East Shore and the neighborhoods of Harper’s Landing and Grogan’s Forest in the Village of College Park

Serving residents of Town Center, Research Forest and other commercial areas.

Spotlight on Superior Service Boards of Directors

At the very heart of the Community Associations are the board members. each board is made up of a combination of community-elected individuals and those appointed by The Woodlands Development Company. These board members have worked tirelessly year-round to keep our hometown vision alive. They’ve attended regular meetings, worked with residents and met with other community leaders, dedicated to making sure residents receive the services and programs they expect.

Although the individual village associations will continue to serve in their current format, the community associations and their boards of directors will cease operations in 2010 when services and operations of the Community Associations transition to The Woodlands Township.

continued on page 26

www.thewoodlandsassociations.org

Main Office located at 2201

The Woodlands, TX 77380

Phone numbers:

Main Line (All Offices and Departments) 281.210.3800

direct to services

Covenant Administration and Residential Design Review Committees 281.210.3973

The Woodlands Recreation Center 281.210.3950

Parks and Recreation or Environmental Services 281.210.3900

Trash and Recycling Pickup (Waste Management, Inc.) 800.800.5804

Neighborhood Services (Village Liaisons and Woodlands Watch) 281.210.3800 Assessments 281.210.3974

The Woodlands Community Magazine/Media Contact 281.210.3892

other service Providers

The Woodlands Fire Department (non-emergency) 281.367.3444

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 281.297.6500 or 936.442.7797

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713.221.6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281.364.4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281.376.3472

Emergency 911

Parks and Recreation Holiday Programs for the season

December 1starting

Letter to Santa

A letter to Santa Claus, yes it’s true! Jolly St. nicholas wants to hear from you. From the north Pole, Santa will write your reply faster than Rudolph can fly! Remember, the elves need a return address to send out Santa’s good tidings.

Send letters to:

The Woodlands Recreation Center

Attn: Santa Claus

5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77381

December 2

Sleigh Ride Stops

Santa’s sleigh is making stops in The Woodlands just for you, weather permitting. Bring a camera and tell Santa your Christmas wishes!

The fee is $3 per child.

Wednesday, December 2, 11 a.m., at Riva Row park; Wednesday, December 9, 11 a.m., at the Bear Branch park pavilion; and Monday, December 21, 11 a.m., at the Terramont park pavilion.

December 5

Reindeer Roundup Golf Camp

Kids in grades 1 through 5 will learn golf skills in a fun and positive environment. Limited equipment, bring your own clubs, if available. Balls included. The fee is $50 per child (resident) and $60 per child (non-resident), plus a $15 supply fee.

Saturday, December 5, from 9 a.m. to noon, at The Woodlands Recreation Center.

December 8

Winter Wonderland

Just because it’s Texas doesn’t mean we can’t have fun with snow! Children ages 2 to 4 will make snowflake and snowman crafts in this wintery class. The fee is $12 per child (resident) and $15 per child (non-resident) with a $5 discount for siblings.

Tuesday, December 8, 10 to 10:45 a.m., at The Woodlands Recreation Center, and Wednesday, December 16, 11 a.m. to noon, at The Woodlands Waterway®.

December 16

Fun with Santa

Santa is coming to the parks! Don’t be a grinch and stay at home – celebrate with holiday crafts, games, music, fun, and of course, Santa. The fee of $10 per child, and $5 per additional sibling, includes a photo with Santa.

Wednesday, December 16, 10:30 a.m. to noon, at the Bear Branch park pavilion, and Monday, December 21, 1 to 2:30 p.m., at the Lodge at Rob Fleming park.

December 18

Parents Night Out

Finish your last minute shopping – or enjoy a night on the town – while the kids have a jolly good time! Children ages 5 to 12 can bring their gifts to wrap (paper and bows provided), watch a holiday movie on the big screen, and enjoy crafts and games. Bring a pillow and blanket. The fee of $10 per child and $5 per additional sibling includes pizza!

Friday, December 18, 5 to 9 p.m., at The Woodlands Recreation Center.

Remember, registration is required for Recreation Center programs. Please visit www.thewoodlandsassociations.org and click Register for Recreation Programs, stop by The Woodlands Recreation Center at 5310 Research Forest Drive, or call 281.210.3950.

December 19

Breakfast with Santa

Join Santa and his elves for a delicious catered breakfast by the fireplace. Family festivities also include carolers and photographs. The fee is $15 per family of four, and $5 per additional family member.

Saturday, December 19, 10 a.m., at the Lodge at Rob Fleming park.

December 21-23 28-30

Holiday Drop-In Dayz Camp

Kids ages 6 to 12 will make presents, wrap gifts, play holiday games and enjoy crafts! Register by Wednesday, December 16. The fee is $160 for all six days or $40 for each drop-in day.

December 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at The Woodlands Recreation Center.

The Woodlands 2009 Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest

The Woodlands 2009 Holiday Lighting & Decorating Contest

It’s time to decorate for the holidays!

All homes served by The Woodlands Community Association or The Woodlands Association, and represented by a village association, are eligible to participate in the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. There are no registration or entry requirements; participants simply display their lights and/or decorations during the dates of December 3 through 9.

There are two categories: Best Home in the village and Best Neighborhood in the village. A neighborhood is generally defined as a few homes located in close proximity, or an entire cul-de-sac or subdivision. Best Home prizes include a yard sign and plaque. A yard sign and Ice Rink passes will be awarded to Best neighborhood. Members of each village association will serve as contest judges. Selection of winners is left to the sole discretion of the judges.

Lights should be on every night December 3 through 9. village judging will take place December 3 through 8. Prizes will be awarded Wednesday, December 9, from 6 to 8 p.m., weather permitting. Call 281.210.3800 or your village association for more information.

Remember, seasonal lights and decorations may be displayed for a period not to exceed six weeks. Seasonal displays must be limited in scope so as not to become a nuisance or annoyance to the neighborhood. Please be sure to time your installation and removal to comply with these standards. Above all, be safe when decorating!

Please join the Community Associations of The Woodlands and the Salvation Army in making the holidays special this year. Stop by The Woodlands Recreation Center at 5310 Research Forest Drive, and choose an angel from the Angel Tree. After you purchase the gift indicated, just bring it back to the Recreation Center by Saturday, December 12, to make the holidays special for someone in our community.

The Carter home won Best Home in Alden Bridge last year.

Holiday Recycling and Trash Service

There will be no waste collection service on Friday, December 25, or Friday, January 1. Following these two holidays, Friday waste collection will be moved to Saturday. All services are affected. Please refer to the chart below.

Remember:

• Unlimited recyclables are accepted at curbside.

• To recycle holiday paper and gift boxes, place in a paper bag or small box next to your recycle bin.

• The recycling truck is a traditional rear-loading truck, reserved only for recyclables.

o nO plastic bags.

o nO Styrofoam.

o nO bubble wrap.

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

If your regular collection is Friday, December 25 and January 1, your holiday collection is Saturday, December 26 and January 2

Normal schedule will resume Monday, January 4. Call Waste Management Customer Service at 800.800.5804 for questions or problems. For unresolved service issues or to report leaking trucks or other concerns, please call the Community Associations, Environmental Services, at 281.210.3900.

Recycling of Green Christmas Trees

• Remove all decorations and lights from the tree.

• Remove tree stands.

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

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

Disposal of Flocked Christmas Trees

• Schedule as bulk/heavy pick up by calling 800.800.5804.

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

• Flocked Christmas trees must be landfilled.

Extra Household Waste

• Requires purchase of a pink tag for extra service.

• One tag per bag

• Cost: $1.50 per tag

• each bag must weigh less than 40 pounds.

• Purchase tags from Community Associations’ offices, The Woodlands Recreation Center, Kroger (Cochran’s Crossing, Alden Bridge and Sterling Ridge) and Randalls (Grogan’s Mill and Panther Creek).

• The Ice Rink 2009-2010 season: Open daily through Monday, January 18, 2010.

• The Ice Rink is moving back to its previous 2007-2008 season location on the corner of Lake Robbins Drive and Six Pines Drive.

• Web sites: www.thewoodlandsicerink.com, www.holidayinthewoodlands.com

• Prices and Hours of Operation:

Weekdays

$7 for two-hour skate session. Skate rental is $2.50 for two-hour skate session; children ages five and under $5 per child (skate rental included).

Weekends

$8 for two-hour skate session. Skate rental is $2.50 for two-hour skate session; children ages five and under $6 per child (skate rental included).

Groups - Weekdays

1-15: $7 for skate session, $2.50 for skates 16-35: $5 for skate session, $2.50 for skates

36 and over: $4.50 for skate session, $2.50 for skates non-profit org. 1-15*: $5.50 for skate session, $2.50 for skates

*Group rates apply thereafter. Must show tax-exempt certificate.

Groups - Weekends

1-15: $8 for skate session, $2.50 for skates 16-35: $6 for skate session, $2.50 for skates

36 and over: $5.50 for skate session, $2.50 for skates non-profit org. 1-15*: $6.50 for skate session, $2.50 for skates *Group rates apply thereafter. Must show tax-exempt certificate.

Hours of Operation

Monday through Thursday ........................................... 3 to 9 p.m.

Friday .......................................................................... 3 to 11 p.m.

Saturday 10 a m to 11 p m

Sunday noon to 7 p m

Holiday Hours

School holidays 11 a m to 10 p m

Thanksgiving Day 1 to 9 p m

Christmas eve 11 a m to 6 p m

Christmas Day .............................................................. 2 to 8 p.m.

new year’s eve ...................................................... noon to 1 a.m. new year’s Day 11 a m to 9 p m

Sunny

December

• 2009-2010 season: Open every evening through Monday, January 4, 2010.

• Winter Wonderland is moving back to its previous 2007-2008 season location on the corner of Lake Robbins Drive and Six Pines Drive!

• Web sites: www.thewoodlandswinterwonderland.com, www.holidayinthewoodlands.com

Hours

Stroll along the pathways surrounded by holiday lights; Open every evening............................... Dusk until 11 p.m.

Photo by Sue Martin

Photos Courtesy of The Woodlands CVB

nature,nesting neighbors balancing

Living in The Woodlands brings adventure and discovery of a verdant forest ecosystem. More than 3,000 acres of open space reserves and an 1,800-acre preserve provide habitat for a diverse wildlife population. nature photography, bird watching and wildlife viewing are popular pastimes. However, when wildlife adapts to close contact with humans, problems can arise.

Graceful, long-legged waterbirds, egrets and herons nest communally in colonies, called rookeries or heronries. Hundreds to tens of thousands of birds representing three to five species come together during nesting season each year from late winter through mid summer. While fascinating in nature, rookeries do not make good neighbors in a residential setting. Preferring to return to previous nesting sites, egrets begin looking for nesting colonies in tall trees as early as December.

continued on page 14

Egrets feed in wetlands and shallow waters on crayfish, frogs, fish and small reptiles.

Photo by Anita Wren

Over the past four years, a few nests in a Panther Creek neighborhood have grown to a colony of more than 100 nests. With a population numbering close to 500 birds, noise and odor have become a nuisance and health concern for nearby residents.

The Parks Department has implemented an action plan for dealing with nuisance egrets and has already removed previous year’s nests and trimmed affected trees in Wedgewood Park, and has advised residents on removing nests from their property. Texas AgriLife extension-Wildlife Services and other wildlife biologists have recommended a variety of techniques to discourage the breeding birds from returning to previous nesting sites.

In early December, the Parks Department will monitor the affected neighborhood for birds and use a combination of low-impact techniques at dusk and dawn in a randomized pattern to make the area undesirable for the egrets and encourage them to choose a less residential site within The Woodlands. Broadcasting distress and predator calls, laser lights and water may be used to discourage nesting. Loud sounds may also be employed.

If any birds begin to nest, dissuasion efforts must stop. Protected by the

Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, nesting birds, their young, eggs and active nests cannot be disturbed in any way under penalty of law.

While it is hoped that the colonynesters will choose a more appropriate site, no one can predict where the birds will go. Residents are encouraged to monitor their trees. Birds are most

sensitive when seeking a new nesting site. Loud noises, like air horns and hand-held laser devices, may encourage them to look elsewhere. For additional information, please call 281.210.3900

Information for this article was compiled by the Parks and Recreation and Environmental Services Departments of the Community Associations of The Woodlands.

Photo by Anita Wren

Elegant in flight, egrets and herons in large numbers can be a nuisance in a residential neighborhood.

Colonial wading birds, egrets and herons build numerous nests in each tree.

Photo by Lynne Aldrich

December

Sun Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat

Tuesday, December 1

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p m

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m.

281.210.3889

Wednesday, December 2

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Thursday, December 3

Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest Judging, December 3 through 8

See page 7 for more information.

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, December 4

Gorilla Hole

The Woodlands Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281.210.3950

This event is geared to 5th and 6th graders. There is a $7 admittance fee.

Saturday, December 5

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

For more information, contact Lorraine Richardson at 713.992.5983.

FREE Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

11 a m to noon

For more information, call 281.210.3900.

Alden Bridge Holiday Carnival

Alden Bridge Village Center

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Buy Recycled Boutique at Alden Bridge Holiday Carnival

Alden Bridge Village Center

10 a m to 2 p m

Tuesday, December 8

Heartsaver CPR

Emergency Training Center 6:30 to 10 p m

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting – Cancelled

Next meeting: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p m 281.210.3887

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p m 281.210.3886

Wednesday, December 9

Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest Awards will be given between 6 and 8 p m

The Woodlands Community Association Board of Directors Meeting (If needed)

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p m 281.210.3800

Thursday, December 10

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting - Cancelled

Next meeting: Thursday, January 14, 2010 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7:30 p m 281.210.5808

Saturday, December 12

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center

8 a m to noon

For more information, contact Lorraine Richardson at 713.992.5983.

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Monday, December 14

The Woodlands Association Board of Directors Workshop

(If needed)

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

Executive Conference Room

3:30 p m 281.210.3800

Tuesday, December 15

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Wednesday, December 16

The Woodlands Township Special Board of Directors Meeting

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600

The Township Board Room

9 a m 281.363.2447

Development Standards Committee Meeting*

Friday, December 18

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

9 a m to 1 p m

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Saturday, December 19

Heartsaver CPR

Emergency Training Center

9 a m to noon

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center 1 to 4 p m

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Monday, December 21

Grogan’s Mill Village Association

Meeting - Cancelled

Next meeting: Monday, January 18, 2010

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6:30 p m

281.210.5808

College Park Village Association Meeting - Cancelled

Next meeting: Monday, January 18, 2010

Emergency Training Center

7:30 p.m.

281.210.3889

Tuesday, December 22

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association

Meeting - Cancelled

Next Meeting: Tuesday, January 26, 2010

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

7:30 p m

281.210.3887

Wednesday, December 23

The Woodlands Community Association Board of Directors Meeting

(If needed)

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

7 p m

281.210.3800

Thursday, December 24

Christmas Eve

All Community Associations’ buildings will be closed for the Christmas holiday.

Friday, December 25

Christmas Day

All Community Associations’ buildings will be closed for the Christmas holiday.

Monday, December 28

Sterling Ridge Village Association

Meeting - Cancelled

Next meeting: Monday, January 25, 2010

Mitchell Library, 8125 Ashlane Way

7 p.m.

281.210.3888

Tuesday, December 29

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p m

To register, please call 281.210.5823.

Upcoming Events:

Friday, January 1

New Year’s Day

Saturday, January 2

FREE Compost Class

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

11 a m to noon

For more information, call 281.210.3900.

Remember…

Holiday Garbage Collection Schedule Changes

There will be no waste collection service on Friday, December 25 or Friday, January 1. Following these two holidays, waste collection will be moved to the day following the regular service day. All services are affected. Please refer to the chart below.

Regular Collection Holiday Collection

Friday, December 25 Saturday, December 26

Friday, January 1 Saturday, January 2

Normal schedule will resume Monday, January 4.

Village Information

Alden Bridge

The Alden Bridge Village Association (ABVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! Web site www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3886 or your Village Association President, Phillip Barker, at 281.364.1623.

Cochran’s Crossing

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 7:30 p.m. at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3887 or your Village Association President, Nancy Becker, at 936.321.4264.

College Park

The College Park Village Association (CPVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7:30 p m at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center. Please join us! Web site www.villageofcollegepark.com

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3889 or your Village Association President, Glen Bernstein, at 936.273.3274.

Creekside Park

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association (WCPVA) usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us!

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3889

Grogan’s Mill

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association (GMVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! Web site www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.5808 or your Village Association President, Deborah Sargeant, at 281.292.5341.

Indian Springs

The Indian Springs Village Association (ISVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! Web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3887 or your Village Association President, Ron Kostelny, at 281.362.8677.

Panther Creek

The Panther Creek Village Association (PCVA) usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7:30 p m at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! Web site www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.5808 or your Village Association President, Dan Booren, at 281.292.8617.

Sterling Ridge

The Sterling Ridge Village Association (SRVA) usually meets the fourth Monday of each month, 7 p m., at the George and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Library meeting room, 8125 Ashlane Way. Please join us! Web site www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your Village Liaison at 281.210.3888 or your Village Association President, Phillip Givens, at 281.419.9331.

Alden Bridge

Happy holidays from Alden Bridge! We hope that everyone has a safe and joyous December!

Alden Bridge is hosting our annual Holiday Carnival! Join us for winter fun and frivolity at the Alden Bridge village Center on Saturday, December 5, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. We’ll have entertainment for all ages, visits from some important guests, rides, booths, seasonal music and refreshments. We will also sell Alden Bridge logo merchandise, the perfect holiday gift and the perfect way for you to donate to our scholarship fund. Come out and kick off the holidays in Alden Bridge!

The monthly residents meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, at 7 p.m. at the Community Associations Building, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Our speaker will be State Representative Rob eissler. Come by and bring your questions about what’s going on in the state legislature.

It’s time to trim your home and yard for this year’s Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest! Judges will visit all neighborhoods December 3 through 9, so turn on your lights every night during that period. We’ll choose one Best Home and one Best neighborhood or group of homes in Alden Bridge. Winning homes will

be awarded on Wednesday, December 9 between 6 and 8 p m., weather permitting. We continue to welcome additions to our electronic mailing list. Please send your e-mail address to info@aldenbridge.org. your address will not be shared and will be used only to distribute village news. Have you seen the extensive selection of Alden Bridge merchandise that is available through our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org? Check it out for some terrific holiday gift ideas!

Thanks again to everyone who contributed to our village association in any way during 2009. your support is very much appreciated!

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

It’s that special eye-popping, mind-blowing pizzazz that separates prize winners from the merely spectacular! That’s what our judges will be looking for as they comb Cochran’s Crossing in search of the very best in holiday lighting and decorating. Prizes will be awarded for the Best Home and the Best neighborhood. Light ‘em up we’ll be coming by soon.

Great Gift Ideas

How about our nifty caps and T’s. They’re just right for stocking stuffers or wrapped-up fancy. Shirts are top quality, heavy weight pigment-dyed cotton in navy with white distressed imprint or clover green with black imprint. They feature the interlocking C’s of Cochran’s Crossing. Shirts are $10, hats just $15. To order call Jim at 936.321.2715, or Bill at 281.298.5733.

Submitted by Bill Mara

John Emerick of Fallsbury Court in Brooksedge was the Alden Bridge Yard of the Month winner for October.

College Park

The time has come for the epic battle of the neighborhood holiday lights displays. every year, the competition gets hotter and the lights get brighter. Will it be Harmony Hollow for another year, Bowie Bend or will a new frontrunner take the prize? I am talking about the annual holiday lights competition, which will be judged from December 3

through 8 and awarded on December 9. every year, we seem to get bigger and brighter neighborhoods and it gets even more competitive when we look at individual homes. If you want bragging rights (and a very colorful yard sign), you simply have to decorate to your hearts content. We will have our elvin judges checking the displays out and miraculously, we may appear on your door step on December 9. The only thing you have to do is turn on your lights!

We will not be having a meeting in December in order for everyone to enjoy the holidays with their families. We will look forward to seeing you at our next meeting in January! Happy Holidays from your College Park village Association Board of Directors.

Submitted by Gail Carney

Creekside Park

Cyber Creekside: The Woodlands Creekside Park village Association (WCPvA) is pleased to introduce our official village Web site, www.creeksideparkvillage.com. Please visit the site to register for village news alerts, view event calendars and access other useful resident tools.

Save the date: The WCPvA presents the first annual Chili Cook-Off and Winter Festival for the residents of Creekside Park on Sunday, December 6, 2009, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Lodge at Rob Fleming park. There will be fun for the whole family including a chili cook-off, giant snow hill and sledding, face painting, kids crafts, snowman building contest and free hotdogs. These activities are sponsored by the following organizations and businesses: The Woodlands Development Company, Darling Homes, Dr. Ryan M. Comeaux, DDS, Capital One Bank, Toll Brothers, Inc., Plantation Homes, Chesmar Homes, Partners In Building, Highland Homes, Pulte Homes, yMCA and Kroger.

Participate: Monthly meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at the Community Associations Building at 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. The December meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 1, 2009, at 7 p m

Submitted by Nancy Decker Lent

Grogan’s Mill

The new sidewalk entrance of the Glen Mill subdivision by Lamar elementary was completed in September. This addition makes it much safer for the students who walk across Many Pines to and from Lamar during the busy drop-off and pick-up period each day. Congratulations and thank you to Grogan’s Mill village Association Board Member Jim Upham for spearheading this project from conception to completion.

The Farmer’s Market continues each Saturday morning at the Grogan’s Mill village Center from 8 a.m. to noon through December 12. visit our returning vendors with their fresh produce, grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and eggs, prepared Indian foods, flowering plants and more, plus enjoy the wares of our new vendors: artisan cheeses, sugar-and gluten-free baked goods, olive trees and medicinal olive oil. you may also bring your kitchen tools to be sharpened.

If your home, your neighbor’s home or your entire neighborhood is decorated and ready for the holidays, be sure to nominate these residents for the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. e-mail us at www.gmva.org with your nominations.

The Grogan’s Mill village Association October yard of the Month recipient is Hazel Coulson (pictured with Grogan’s Mill village Association Representatives Franklin Palmer,

Residents of The Woodlands since 1982, the Coulsons selected their home because of its unique lot with frontage on three streets. The yard is enhanced with pink crape myrtles (Hazel’s favorite color), magnolia solangeana, indica azaleas, Chinese wisteria, showy white azaleas, a formal planting of dwarf buford holly, spreading junipers and Asian jasmine groundcover. This beautiful, well-maintained landscape comes alive at night with the landscape lighting which was added this past spring.

Submitted by

Dana Denton

left, and Jim Upham, right) of the Autumwood neighborhood.

Alden Bridge

The Woodlands Association Director

Claude Hunter 936.273.6604

Village Association

Phillip Barker, President 281.364.1623

Steve Leakey, Vice President 281.419.3468

Ross Vickers, Treasurer 936.271.5026

Darla Bell, Secretary 936.321.6269

Area Representatives

Matt Bartholomew 281.292.7632

Nasim Bell 281.362.0652

Michael Cannetti

Judy Drummond 936.582.5044

Sean Guillory 713.446.0652

Lauri Ricks

Kendrick Skipper 936.273.4127

Angela Speight 281.367.2222

David Stevens

Theresa Wagaman 936.271.0092

Dale Wood 936.321.7980

Adele Yung 936.271.4726

Residential Design Review Committee

Arthur J. Bredehoft 281.296.9204

Herman Weindel

Gregory Bakalich 936.321.9606

Peggy Gartman 936.273.6092

Pam Hansell 281.362.8520

Cochran’s Crossing

The Woodlands Community Association Directors

Bruce Tough 281.681.0808

Stuart Schroeder 281.210.3804

Walter Cooke (at large) 281.296.8877

Skeeter Hubert 281.465.0718

Village Association

Nancy Becker, President 936.321.4264

Marti Fox Meerscheidt, Vice President

Jim Goldmeyer, Treasurer 936.321.2715

Bill Mara, Secretary 281.298.5733

Area Representatives

Jeff Allen 936.271.0472

Chris Chamberlain

Brian Duelm 281.292.0791

Julie Duelm 281.292.0791

Douglas Cole Grijalva 281.362.1801

Cynthia Kessinger 936.321.3339

Gloria Moser 281.363.2505

Jerry Orebaugh

Steve Perry 936.321.8138

Dave Jesiolowski

Lori Riley 281.364.1713

Bebe Smith 936.273.3327

Steven Tidwell

Clarence J. Wallace

Residential Design Review Committee

Clarence Wallace, Chair

Jim Goldmeyer, Vice Chair 936.321.2715

Mark Bacon

David Jesiolowski

Steven Tidwell 281.796.8274

College Park

The Woodlands Association Director

Theodore Stanley 936.321.5996

Village Association

Glen Bernstein, President 936.273.3274

Scott S. Singletary, Vice President 936.321.9190

Steven A. Reinmund, CPA, Treasurer 832.326.6575

Gail Carney, Secretary 936.271.1241

Area Representatives

Laura Dean

Richard Johnson 281.363.4626

Ray Penton 936.321.2284

Janet Reinmund 832.515.9966

Doug Rodermund 832.797.4111

Anna M. Schultz

Ronald Schultz

Residential Design Review Committee

Roger W. McDonald, Chair 936.321.5250

Gail Carney 936.271.1241

Eileen Sandburg 936.321.8486

Ronald Schultz 936.203.2620

Creekside Park

Village Association

Nancy Decker Lent, President

Michael Ramsey, Vice President

Matt Marrow, Secretary

Larry Jadrych, Treasurer

Residential Design Review Committee

Peter Kalb

Nancy Decker Lent

Michael Ramsey

Christopher Valle

Jeff Dewese

Grogan’s Mill

The Woodlands Community Association Directors

Deborah Sargeant 281.292.5341

Tom Campbell (at large) 281.367.5200

George Van Horn 281.210.3800

Jeff Long (at large) 281.210.3800

Village Association

Deborah Sargeant, President 281.292.5341

Dana Denton, Vice President 281.681.5603

Sally Johnson, Treasurer 281.292.7965

Patricia Goodpastor, Secretary 281.367.5385

Area Representatives

Matt Beasley

Bruce Cunningham

Virginia Dellinger 281.363.3777

Joe Giovanniello 281.363.2698

Donna Gossett 281.364.8286

Robert Leilich 832.326.3119

Franklin R. Palmer 281.367.7030

William Sargent 281.292.3678

James Upham 281.364.1616

Lily Weiss 281.362.7072

Chris Wren 281.210.2567

Residential Design Review Committee

Franklin R. Palmer, Chair 281.367.7030

Jorge Slater, Vice Chair

Vince Fredrick

Mary E. Lozano

Jim Upham 281.364.1616

Indian Springs

The Woodlands Community Association Directors

Royce Christian 281.367.2025

John Leftwich

The Woodlands Association Director

Lloyd Matthews 281.296.9618

Village Association

Ron Kostelny, President 281.362.8677

Loretta Colchin, Vice President 832.813.0862

Oscar Lui, Treasurer 281.681.2219

Carolyn Dalglish, Secretary 281.419.9925

Area Representatives

Shanna Davis 281.222.6163

Lisa Gregory 281.292.7526

Amy Lecocq 281.298.1476

Barbara Mevawala 281.298.9658

Erika Pratt

Randy Scott 281.292.2925

Kelly Sharer 281.543.4777

Kenneth Schumann 281.419.2265

Richard Stromatt

Carol Stromatt

Louis Wilson 281.364.9467

Residential Design Review Committee

The Woodlands Community Association

John (Randy) Scott, Chair 281.292.2925

Nathan Dietrich, Vice Chair 281.446.2075

Steven Gallia

Albert Tomchesson 281.419.0153

The Woodlands Association

Matthew Mussalli, Chair

Carol Stromatt 281.296.7018

Kenneth Schumann 281.419.2265

Panther Creek

The Woodlands Community Association Directors

Everett Ison 281.298.9524

PC Position #2, Term Expires 03/11

Rich Jakovac 281.362.8757

PC Position #10, Term Expires 03/10

Village Association

Dan Booren, President 281.292.8617

Term Expires 03/10

Everett Ison, Vice President 281.298.9524

Term Expires 03/11

Damon Palermo, Secretary 936.447.9028

Term Expires 03/11

Kimber Lewis, Treasurer 281.292.3477

Term Expires 03/10

Area Representatives

Six Positions, Terms Expire 03/11

Barbara Beavis 281.292.5429

Karen Booren 281.292.8617

Geneva Carroll 281.292.2974

Betty Nelson 281.419.4395

Barbara St. Amand 281.292.7346

Karen Stafford 281.363.1283

Six Positions, Terms Expire 03/10

Mary Bootz 281.296.9960

Barby Carroll 281.292.2974

Daniel E. Lewis 281.292.3477

Hartley Mackintosh 281.367.7222

Joe Witcraft 281.761.9773

Residential Design Review Committee

Rick Sattler, Chair 281.298.1989

Susan Pennock, Vice Chair

Caroline Barnes

Barby R. Carroll 281.292.2974

Marsha Carlton

Sterling Ridge

The Woodlands Association Director

Anthony Fasone 281.362.8028

Village Association

Phillip Givens,** President 281.419.9331

Richard Gregory,* Vice President 281.451.7883

Angela Francis,** Treasurer

Robin Lynch,* Secretary

Sue Young,** Event Chair 281.381.8393

*Term Expires 2010

** Term Expires 2011

Area Representatives

Terms Expire 2010

Kevin Casey

Charles Dressler 281.296.0642

Tiffany Gross

John Nanninga 281.298.6060

Nick Norris

Terms Expire 2011

Susan Bell

Todd Bloomfield

Rhonda Borne 281.825.6177

Angela Scott

Residential Design Review Committee

James (Jim) Brown

Annette Haut

John Nanninga 281.298.6060

Doris Wootton

Stacey Wingen

FREE classes the first Saturday of every month, October – March

11 a.m. to noon

• Bins Available

• Composting Basics

• Troubleshooting Tips

• Handouts

• Resource List

Drawing for FREE bin and other prizes at every class!

Community Associations of The Woodlands, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive next to The Woodlands High School. For information, call the Environmental Services Department at 281.210.3900.

Sponsored by: Community Associations of The Woodlands

Montgomery County Master Gardener Association

Texas AgriLife Extension Service

buy recycled

opensBoutique

By Lucinda valdes

Opening one day only, the Buy Recycled Boutique returns to the village Holiday Carnival in Alden Bridge Shopping Center on Saturday, December 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A joint project of the Community Associations of The Woodlands and The Woodlands G.R.e e n., the Buy Recycled Boutique answers the question: Where does it go from here?

“It really is an educational program to connect what we recycle to what we buy,” said Lynne Aldrich, manager of the environmental Services Department for the Community Associations. “The Boutique introduces consumers to the quality and value of products made from recycled materials.”

Twice a year, the trunk show offers a unique collection of items made from glass, plastic, paper, metal and other recycled materials. Merchandise is selected from the studios of artisans and small manufacturers with preference for American made, nonprofit and fair trade. every product has a story, from trendy earrings for teens to cutting boards for cooks and tea sets for little ones.

“Once people see and touch the exquisite jewelry, fine stemware and softly textured eco-fleece, they are sold on the concept of purchasing items from recycled materials,” said Ms. Aldrich.

The approach has proven successful. now in its seventh year, the Boutique

has gained a loyal following of shoppers. “Choosing recycled content keeps recycling working,” said Ms. Aldrich, “And that is our goal!”

The Buy Recycled Boutique offers consumers an eco-friendly shopping experience. For more information, please call the Community Associations of The Woodlands at 281.210.3900.

For every day or entertaining, functional and decorative pieces in recycled glass add elegance.

Sharing the story behind each product, Lynne Aldrich assists eco-conscious consumers at the Buy Recycled Boutique.

Photo by Ellen Swartz

Photo by Ellen Swartz

Forever green

he predominant character of our forest is more apparent in winter than at any other time of year. We live in the Piney Woods! Our loblolly pines, magnolias, red bays and hollies, while merely the backdrop for all else during the remainder of the year now take center stage. evergreens—those trees that lose their leaves only after the new leaves appear—are especially valuable in winter, not solely for their contribution to the otherwise stark landscape and as landscape screening elements but primarily as cover and food for birds and other wildlife that overwinter in our region.

The American holly (Ilex opaca) assumes a pyramidal habit and significant height when space allows.

Photo by April Proudfit

By Kathie Gilmore Herrick, Texas Master naturalist

The evergreen spiny leaves of Ilex opaca furnish cover for migrating songbirds. Female trees laden with red-berried fruit in fall and winter are a winter food source for several small mammals and more than 18 species of birds, among them cardinals, bluebirds and cedar waxwings. It is not uncommon to see a flock of one of the overwintering or migrant bird species devour the ripe berry feast in January and February.

Photo by April Proudfit

Photo by Dawn Pando

Frequently, the term “evergreen” evokes the image of needle-leafed, conebearing pines or junipers, but the east Texas forest landscape is home to many native broad-leafed evergreens. The spiny leaf of the traditional American holly (Ilex opaca) is representative.

This largest of our native hollies still rarely exceeds 50 feet in height, and as a shade-tolerant species, it is frequently a member of the forest understory. The tallest specimens are found in the open where younger trees have a pyramidal habit different from the typically multitrunked, broad-crowned form of the understory.

Shade tolerance is only one indicator of the versatility of the American holly. It is adaptable to almost any habitat from floodplains to uplands. In fact, the United States Forest Service documents Ilex opaca as a tree tolerant of urban conditions including air pollution, poor drainage and/or drought, especially within its native range. Perhaps the slow growing, long-lived (more than 100 years) American holly holds the future of the urban forest.

The hollies as a group usually bear male and female flowers on separate trees. As a result, the female trees are the ones that provide the ornamental red berries in winter, as long as there are plenty of male trees nearby. Typically, trees in full sun are more fruitful. Berry production and gender confirmation of a seedling takes five to 12 years.

May the American holly keep us mindful, as The Woodlands observes its 35th year, of the need to perpetuate our Piney Woods so that the forest endures “evergreen...ever beautiful.”

Spotlight continued

A special

Thank You

to the dedicated boards of directors –past and present – of The Woodlands Community Association, The Woodlands Association and The Woodlands Commercial Owners Association. The current board members are:

The Woodlands Community Association Board of Directors

Jeff Long, President

Tom Campbell, vice President

Deborah Sargeant, vice President

Stuart Schroeder, Treasurer

Rich Jakovac, Secretary

George van Horn, Grogan’s Mill, Pos. #1

everett Ison, Panther Creek, Pos. #2

Royce Christian, Indian Springs, Pos. #4

Richard Derr, Appointed, Pos. #8

Bruce Tough, Cochran’s Crossing, Pos. #11

John Leftwich, Indian Springs, Pos. #12

Skeeter Hubert, At-Large, Pos. #13

Walter Cooke, At-Large, Pos. #14

The Woodlands Association Board of Directors

Joel Deretchin, President

Claude Hunter, vice President

Lloyd Matthews, vice President

Anthony Fasone, Treasurer

Randy Davis, Assistant Treasurer

Ted Stanley, Secretary

Arthur Bredehoft, Assistant Secretary

R.e. “Buck” Driggers, Appointed, Class B Director

Susan vreeland-Wendt, Appointed, Class B Director

Robert Bruce, Appointed, Class B Director

The Woodlands Commercial owners Association Board of Directors

Joel Deretchin, President

Boyd Burdett, vice President

Dan B. Leverett, vice President

Greg Jordan, Secretary

Steve Sanders, Treasurer/Assistant Secretary

For Christmas, THE Cleanest House Ever

If you’re planning on having family or friends over for the ho lidays, how about enhancing your beautiful home with absolutely impressive cleanliness?

Seriously, you and your guests will not believe your eyes when you see how clean your home can be after The Maids have been through it. These top notch, highly trained professionals are truly the experts when it comes to cleaning. “Nobody Outcleans The Maids ” is its tagline, and “AtTheMaidsHomeService,weprideourselvesongoingaboveandbeyondwhatotherhousecleaningservicesoffer” says German Ochoa, owner of The Woodlands franchise.

Indeed, within a couple of hours, a team of 4 (four) fabulous maids will have converted your home to a place where everything sparkles and shines in a way you’ve never seen before - guaranteed. You’ll have the cleanest house ever!

Customers can’t rave enough about The Maids. Many of them say that before they called The Maids there was always something that was disappointing with the cleaning they received. However, with The Maids, they always get more than what they would expect. In fact, the results are just amazing and simply unbeatable.

The secret to The Maids’ unbeatable cleanness is their unique 22-step deep cleaning system, a highly successful cleaning approach that was extensively researched and originally developed over 30 years ago by the company’s founder Daniel J. Bishop. It even comes with a 100% satisfaction policy!.

Don’t think twice! Treat yourself and your family to an impressive, beautiful home for the holidays and enjoy the season to the fullest!

The Maids Home Services 28030 FM 2978, Suite 105

The Woodlands, Texas, 77354 832 934 1112

www.maids.com

Do you remember these milestones in The Woodlands history?

1974 Grand Opening of The Woodlands and The Village of Grogan’s Mill

1975 Interfaith established

1976 McCullough High School opened

1977 Village of Panther Creek opened

1983 Village of Cochran’s Crossing opened

1985 Village of Indian Springs opened The Woodlands Hospital (now Memorial Hermann) opened

1987 The Hardy Toll Road opened

1990 The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion opened

1994 The Village of Alden Bridge opened The Woodlands Mall opened

The population of The Woodlands exceeded 40,000

1995 Montgomery College (now Lone Star CollegeMontgomery) opened

1996 The Woodlands High School opened

1999

2000

The Village of Sterling Ridge opened Plans for The Woodlands Waterway® were unveiled

The Village of College Park opened

2002 The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center opened

2004 Market Street opened

2005 The Woodlands College Park High School opened

Population of The Woodlands exceeded 80,000

2007 The Village of Creekside Park opened

Start the New Year Out Right

By Anne Spaulding

Have you started your list of New Year’s resolutions yet? We have one for you to add – “Get to know my neighbors.”

Knowing our neighbors is one of the most effective ways to prevent crime, and the busier our lives are, the more important that connection is. Amid the hustle and bustle of work, school and shopping, we can leave ourselves vulnerable to criminal activity.

Special ThankS To our Major SponSorS

preSenTing SponSorS

Comcast

Devon Energy

Main STage SponSor

The Pepsi Bottling Group

Zone SponSorS

Houston Community Newspapers

Arts Alley

Huggies® Little Movers

Adventure Zone

Wells Fargo Fun Zone

The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau Activity Tent

perforMing arTiSTS SponSorS

Administaff

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation

The Center for the Performing Arts at The Woodlands Board of Directors

FMC Technologies, Inc.

Huntsman Corporation

Linn Energy

auToMoTive

paraDe SponSor

Hacienda

MeDia SponSorS

Houston

Community Newspapers

8

KTXH

MY20

Radio

Disney KMIC 1590 AM

FM

AAA of Texas

Children’s Memorial Hermann

The Woodlands

Continental Airlines

EMI

Entergy

Fidelity Investments

Hewitt Associates

Hillco Partners

Houston Northwest Medical Center

Junior League of North Harris and South Montgomery Counties

Kinder-Morgan Foundation

Market Street – The Woodlands

The Pavilion Partners

Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates

Senator & Mrs. Tommy Williams

Winstead PC

Woodforest National Bank

The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott

Knowing who our neighbors are means we are more likely to be aware when someone or something doesn’t look right. Criminals can slip in and out of a neighborhood quickly and quietly, but an alert neighbor can tell when something is wrong. It can be a car you’ve never seen before driving slowly down the street,

activity at a house belonging to residents who are out of town or at work, or an unfamiliar person carrying items out of a neighbor’s garage.

One of the best ways for neighbors to connect is through The Woodlands Watch program. Coordinated by neighborhood Services, the Watch provides neighborhoods with tools they can use to share information, respond to solicitors, request a vacation Watch and reduce crimes of opportunity. neighborhood Services can also schedule Watch Meetings and Good neighbor Days that bring residents together with community law enforcement and safety personnel.

Do you know your neighbors? If not, get started on that list of resolutions. In fact, we suggest making “Get to know my neighbors” resolution

number one. Having a closer, friendlier neighborhood will make 2010 a year that is not only more fun, but safer, too.

For more information on The Woodlands Watch or how you can schedule a Watch Meeting or Good neighbor Day, contact neighborhood Services at 281.210.3800 or neighbor@catw-tx.org.

www.woodlandswellness.com

This year is tougher for everyone, and that especially includes Interfaith of The Woodlands and the families it serves. Supplies have been unusually depleted, so many children and elderly folks will see a dimmer Christmas season without our help. Join us in helping Interfaith serve our needy neighbors and friends in our community.

What you can do:

• Find a place in your pocketbook and your heart to purchase a child’s toy or comfort item for a senior adult.

• Drop it off at The Blair Law Firm (#7 Grogan’s Park Drive, Redbud Building 3, near Amerigo’s restaurant), drop it off at Interfaith, 4242 Interfaith Way in the Village of Panther Creek, or call 281.363.3632 for pickup!

• If each of us can make a small effort to go the extra mile this year, it will have a very large impact on many of our neighbors for a brighter holiday season!

Would you like to have one of your photos considered for publication in this magazine? We love to print photos of Woodlands people and scenery taken by our hometown residents—especially in our beautiful parks!

There is no payment for photos, but you will get a photo credit in the magazine. Photos cannot be returned, so don’t send us your only copy. no copyrighted photos will be accepted. For more information, please call 281.210.3892.

SUBMIT PHOTOS TO:

The Woodlands Community Magazine

P.O. Box 7859

The Woodlands, TX 77387-7859 or you can e-mail your photos to magazine@catw-tx.org.