July/August 2024

A MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY

DEAR RESIDENTS OF THE WOODLANDS,

As we embrace the vibrant summer season, The Woodlands Township Board of Directors is excited to share the array of activities and amenities available to enhance your quality of life. We are proud to offer a diverse range of facilities and events designed to bring our community together and create lasting memories.

One of the highlights of summer in The Woodlands is our network of refreshing pools. With 14 pools scattered throughout the community, there’s always a place nearby to cool off, relax and enjoy the sunny days. Each pool is meticulously maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for residents of all ages. Whether you’re looking to swim laps, join a water aerobics class or simply splash around with the family, our pools provide a perfect escape from the summer heat.

In addition to our pools, we invite you to join us for our Fourth of July festivities. This annual day of celebration is a cornerstone of our community spirit, featuring a day filled with patriotic fun, food and entertainment. From the South County Fourth of July Parade, to Red, Hot and Pool and, of course, the patriotic Red, Hot and Blue Festival and fireworks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These festivities are more than just events; they are a testament to the sense of unity and pride that defines The Woodlands.

The quality of life amenities we enjoy in The Woodlands are made possible largely through funding from sales and use tax. This means that your support of local businesses directly contributes to the maintenance and enhancement of these amenities. By choosing to shop and dine within our community, you are playing a crucial role in sustaining the resources and events that make The Woodlands a wonderful place to live.

Our local businesses offer a variety of goods and services that cater to your needs and preferences. From dining at one of our many exceptional restaurants to shopping at local boutiques and stores, your patronage helps keep our economy thriving. This summer, we encourage you to explore what our local businesses have to offer and enjoy the convenience and quality they bring to our community.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors is dedicated to ensuring that our community continues to be a place where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. As we enter into our budget planning season, we are committed to providing and maintaining the amenities that make our community special.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community. We look forward to seeing you at the pools, the Fourth of July festivities and around town this summer. Let’s make this season memorable by enjoying and supporting everything that The Woodlands has to offer.

With warm regards,

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TYPICALLY MEETS on the third Thursday and the fourth Wednesday of each month at Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Drive, 6 p.m., unless posted otherwise. Residents are encouraged to attend.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DR. ANN K. SNYDER Chairman, Position 6 KYLE WATSON Vice Chairman, Position 4

LINDA NELSON Secretary, Position 2

RICHARD FRANKS Treasurer, Position 3

BRAD BAILEY Director, Position 1

DR. SHELLEY SEKULA-GIBBS Director, Position 5

CINDY HEISER Director, Position 7

MONIQUE SHARP President and CEO

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a bi-monthly publication wholly owned and operated by The Woodlands Township. Content is produced internally by the Township Communications Department. It serves as a primary dissemination source for government information for residents of The Woodlands. Any publication of The Woodlands Community Magazine is sole property of The Woodlands Township and cannot be reproduced or distributed in any way without the permission and written consent of The Woodlands Township. The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement by The Woodlands Township. Articles that appear in The Woodlands Community Magazine do not necessarily reflect the official position of The Woodlands Township. Publications, brochures and flyers inserted within the magazine are limited to Township departments only and cannot be purchased by external businesses and organizations. The magazine is not funded by advertising, therefore there is no ad space available for purchase. Content provided and limited to contributing Township departments, villages and partners. The publication vendor selected to print and distribute The Woodlands Community Magazine operates independently and is not affiliated with The Woodlands Township.

Editorial inquiries may be directed to:

The Woodlands Township Communications Department

2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX 77381 281-210-3800 | communications@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT

LeaAnn Petersen, Director of Communications

Mary Connell, Communications Manager

Kacie Gurney, Communications Project Manager

Perry Frank, Senior Communications Specialist

Barbara Ryan, Communications Specialist

Tamara Bean, Social Media Strategist

Steven Romero, Video Producer

Ashley Lancaster, Senior Administrative Assistant

CONTRIBUTING DEPARTMENTS

Board of Directors

Office of the President and CEO

Communications

Covenant Administration

Customer Engagement

Environmental Services

Finance & Budget

Human Resources

Information Technology

Neighborhood Services

Parks & Recreation

Township Secretary & Records

The Woodlands Fire Department

Transportation & Infrastructure

Visit The Woodlands - CVB

CONTRIBUTING VILLAGES

Alden Bridge

Cochran’s Crossing

College Park

Creekside Park

Grogan’s Mill

Indian Springs

Panther Creek

Sterling Ridge

CONTRIBUTING PARTNERS

Montgomery County

Harris County

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

Harris County Constable’s Office

Harris County MUD 386

Howard Hughes

San Jacinto River Authority

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce

The Woodlands Area Economic

Development Partnership

The Woodlands Arts Council

The Woodlands Water Agency

Various Sponsored Events

RIPPLES OF TIME HISTORY OF THE WOODLANDS WATERWAY

By Lorrie Parise, Howard Hughes

Envision a seamless

connection to relaxed strolls, invigorating runs, picturesque bike rides and free trolley rides. Encounter a diverse array of shopping and dining, premium Class AAA and Class A office spaces and vibrant residential living with urban walkability. Enjoy convenient access to entertainment including the world-renowned outdoor amphitheater, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

Experience outdoor art from one of the largest outdoor collections for a community its size. Among these treasures is Flowers, one of Texas’ largest murals, created by internationally acclaimed artist, Alex Katz, nestled within a 2.3-acre green space. Appreciate Town Green Park and Waterway Square. Discover all this and more at The Woodlands Waterway - the acclaimed 1.8-mile water feature, linear park and transportation corridor.

The Woodlands Waterway transcends generations. The genesis of The Woodlands Waterway emerged from humble origins as a modest drainage system. The Waterway was a vision of George Mitchell and The Woodlands Development Company, now Howard Hughes. In 1972, Robert Heineman, former Vice President of Planning and Design at Howard Hughes, sketched a transportation corridor onto a “napkin” (which was really a notecard), that would become the heart of the future Town Center here. For 27 years, the blueprint for The Woodlands Waterway remained a concept on paper, undergoing numerous studies and

planning, until construction commenced in 1999.

The Woodlands Waterway stands as a testament to a successful multi-decade, public-private partnership between Howard Hughes and public entities including the Federal Transit Administration, Texas Department of Transportation, HGAC, The Woodlands Road Utility District, Town Center Owner’s Association, Montgomery County, and The Woodlands Township. Numerous designers and entities were involved

Photo courtesy Howard Hughes

Robert Heineman notecard sketch courtesy Howard Hughes

in the planning and development of The Woodlands Waterway including Ford Powell Carson, Cambridge 7, EDAW, Sasaki, Clark Condon, LJA, The Goodman Corporation, Brazos Transit and the internationally renowned architect Frank Gehry.

Timeline:

• 1972 – Sketch of The Woodlands Waterway within the future Town Center.

• 2002 – Grand Opening Celebration to introduce The Waterway.

• 2004 – The Woodlands Waterway extension to The Woodlands Mall opens.

• 2006 – Town Green Park opens.

• 2009 – Waterway Square and Fountains and Riva Row Boat House, opens.

• 2017 – The Woodlands Waterway opens to Hughes Landing.

• 2018 – Completion of the Final Extension of The Woodlands Waterway.

• 2023 – Howard Hughes donates The Woodlands Waterway to the Township for current residents and future generations to enjoy.

Next time you visit The Woodlands Waterway, appreciate the transformative journey. This vision has evolved into a world-class amenity, leaving a lasting ripple in time for all who experience its beauty.

The Woodlands 50th Anniversary events planned for the week of October 14-19 will include:

MONDAY, OCTOBER 14: KICK-OFF

Community leaders will kick-off the celebratory week with proclamations from state, regional and local officials, as well as a dedication of a time capsule to commemorate the historic milestone.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15: DAY OF GIVING

Community service and philanthropy are engrained within the fabric of The Woodlands. Volunteer opportunities and ways to give back to the community will be posted on the 50th Anniversary website at TheWoodlands.com early this fall in collaboration with Interfaith of The Woodlands, the first nonprofit organization in the history of our community.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16: TREE DEDICATION

Greenspace and environmental stewardship are a critical part of The Woodlands. A beautiful, 1,000-gallon hardwood tree of significance will be dedicated at Northshore Park, along with the planting of a 100-gallon tree in each residential village in partnership with the Village Associations.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17: MURAL UNVEILING

A new mural along The Woodlands Waterway will be unveiled, signifying the importance and impact of the arts in our community. A local artist will be selected in collaboration with The Woodlands Art Council.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18: 50TH CONCERT

Presented by Howard Hughes - Lyle Lovett and His Large Band will headline this free event, featuring Hayes Carll as the opening act at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the top ranked outdoor amphitheaters in the world. Registration for priority access to tickets is now open at TheWoodlands.com, along with concert details.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19: GRAND CELEBRATION

On the Cover

This iconic photo, taken in 2011, during the annual Fourth of July fireworks show, beautifully showcases The Woodlands Waterway. Over the past 13 years, the skyline along the Waterway has evolved and continues to transform to this day.

October 19 marks the actual 50th anniversary date of The Woodlands. A grand public extravaganza, produced by The Woodlands Township, will be held at Northshore Park, Hughes Landing Band Shell and Town Green Park in The Woodlands. This free, familyfriendly event will culminate with an innovative high-tech drone and fireworks show, lighting the sky above Lake Woodlands. The drone show and fireworks are presented by Woodforest National Bank and Waste Connections.

Photo by Derrick Bryant

Photo courtesy Howard Hughes

CELEBRATE FREEDOM IN THE WOODLANDS

STAR-SPANGLED

SALUTE - WEDNESDAY, JULY 3 AT 8 P.M.

The celebration kicks off on Wednesday, July 3, at 8 p.m. with the Houston Symphony Orchestra performing on the Main Stage at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for the Star-Spangled Salute, presented by ExxonMobil. This event is free; tickets are not required. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. For bag policy and more information, please visit WoodlandsCenter.org.

SOUTH COUNTY FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

The festivities continue Thursday, July 4, starting at 9 a.m. with the South County Fourth of July Parade in The Woodlands Town Center and Market Street. The 1.3-mile parade features marching bands, fire engines, floats, and more! Please note that roads will be closed during the parade. For the parade map and more details, please visit 4thofjulyparade.org.

Photo courtesty of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Photo by Perry Frank

FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES

RED, HOT & POOL

After the parade, residents are invited to cool down at Red, Hot & Pool at all Township pools from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The lifeguards at each pool will provide fun activities from noon to 4 p.m., as well as light refreshments, while supplies last. Daily fees will apply for residents and non-residents; entry is free for season pool pass holders.

RED, HOT & BLUE FESTIVAL

The celebration will continue into the evening with the 27th annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival, featuring entertainment at five locations in The Woodlands from 6 to 10 p.m.

Northshore Park will feature musical entertainment by Level One Band. Festival activities include fireworks, face painting, concessions and live music. Please be advised, Northshore Park vehicular access will be affected July 2-5 for set-up, safety and security, with no vehicular access on July 4. For the most up to date information regarding access, residents should visit www. redhotblue.org.

• Town Green Park festival activities include fireworks, strolling entertainment, face painting, balloon art, children’s arts and crafts, concessions and live music on two stages.

• Waterway Square Park festival activities include live music by Time Warp, fireworks, face painting, balloon art and concessions. The Fourth of July Parade Awards will be held at 7 p.m.

• Rob Fleming Park festival activities include fireworks only. Please note: no vendors’ booths, concessions, live music or other activities will be at this event location. Due to limited parking in the Rob Fleming Park area, residents are encouraged to carpool, walk or bike to the event.

• Hughes Landing with fireworks and live music by Flashpoint.

The annual celebration will culminate with an 18-minute Fireworks Extravaganza at approximately 9:30 p.m. with four launch locations. Residents can enjoy both the sights and sounds of the Fireworks Extravaganza by tuning in to KSTAR Country 99.7 FM to broadcast the soundtrack live on www.kstarcountry. com or by downloading the app. The app can be found by searching “KSTAR Country Radio” in the App Store or on Google Play.

The Red, Hot & Blue celebration is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by Waste Management and The Howard Hughes.

FIREWORKS DISPLAY LOCATIONS

• Adjacent to Northshore Park: Primary fireworks display near Lake Woodlands.

• Town Green Park: Secondary close-proximity (special effects) display. Please note there may be limited visibility of the primary display at Town Green Park due to trees and buildings.

• Waterway Square District: Fireworks display near Timberloch Place and Waterway Avenue.

• Rob Fleming Park: Fireworks display in the Village of Creekside Park.

Please be advised areas near the fireworks launch sites may experience fireworks fallout including, but not limited to, the Lake Woodlands Bridge, the north side of Northshore Park, the north side of The Woodlands Waterway adjacent to Town Green Park and the parking lot at the Lodge at Rob Fleming Park.

Coolers, picnic baskets and lawn chairs are permitted. A variety of concessions and beverages will be available for purchase. Glass, oversized beach umbrellas and pop-up tents are prohibited.

Photo by Perry Frank

Photo by Derrick Bryant

by Joseph Francis

BEAT THE HEAT THIS SUMMER: BOOK A MORNING CLIMB AT TEXAS TREEVENTURES

By Haily Apolloni

Summer is here

and to beat the infamous Texas heat, Texas TreeVentures is offering early morning reservations! Guests can book visits every 30 minutes starting at 8 a.m., Thursday through Sunday. Availability is limited so appointments are highly recommended. We also have a new shorter option for afternoons. Climbs booked after 11 a.m. are now two hours. The cost is $30 for adults and $25 for kids 6 to 12 years old.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Park at the Rob Fleming Recreation Center and locate the sign at the back of the parking lot that says, “Texas TreeVentures This Way!” Please leave valuables at home and arrive at least 20 minutes early to check in, use the restroom, etc. Your pockets must be empty, including keys, phones, and wallets. You will receive one gallon-sized Ziploc bag to store their phones and keys. You may not bring these items during your climb on the course. Closed-toed and closed-heeled shoes are required, and the weight limit for climbers is 44 to 275 pounds. Children 6 to 8 years old must always have one adult with them on the course, and children 9 to 12 must have one adult for every two children.

SAFETY

Are you planning a climb? Make sure you’re ready to go by taking care of your body before you arrive. Eat a good breakfast, drink lots of water, bring salty snacks, and continuously apply sunscreen so you can be prepared. Forgot your water, snacks or sunscreen? No worries, we have it all for sale at our gift shop.

WE ARE OPEN ON FOURTH OF JULY!

Start your Fourth of July weekend off with a HANG! Swing by Texas TreeVentures with your family and friends on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Bookings fill up fast, so make your reservation online before it’s too late.

WHEN DO SUMMER HOURS END?

Regular hours for Texas TreeVentures resume after August 11, 2024. (Regular season hours are Friday through Sunday.) As the summer ends, our Special Event night climbs make their return! Keep an eye out for future dates and times that will be released on our website or follow us on social media.

Photo

SUMMER ADVENTURES AWAIT AT THE BOAT HOUSES ON LAKE

By Joseph Magnan and Joseph Francis

Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time visitor, Riva Row and Lake’s Edge Boat Houses offer an array of watercraft and activities to make your summer unforgettable.

Riva Row Boat House offers a diverse selection of watercraft, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From single and tandem kayaks to paddleboards and swan boats, you can choose your preferred mode of exploration. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful paddle or an exciting group outing, Riva Row has you covered.

To make planning your visit even easier, the Riva Row Boat House website, www.rivarowboathouse.com, is a convenient site to check availability and reserve your watercraft. You can also call us at 281-210-3965, email us at info@rivarowboathouse.com, or stop by to ask about availability or make a booking.

WOODLANDS

EXTENDED SUMMER HOURS FOR MORE FUN

The Woodlands Boat Houses extend their hours during the summer, giving you even more time to enjoy the lake.

• Riva Row Boat House: Open Thursday through Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Lakes Edge Boat House: Open, pending renovations, Wednesday through Monday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Swans at the Mall: Open Friday through Sunday, 2 to 8 p.m.

MOONLIGHT PADDLE AND STARLIGHT SWANS

In response to popular demand, Riva Row Boat House is excited to announce the return of its two most beloved evening programs: Moonlight Paddle and Starlight Swans. These enchanting events will be held on the same night, the second Friday of each month, continuing through September.

Photo by Joseph Francis

JULY

8 p.m. at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2005 Lake Robbins Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77380

FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES

A day filled with fun and fireworks! From the Fourth of July Parade to the Red, Hot & Blue Festival!

JULY

11 ROCK THE ROW SUMMER SERIES*

7 to 9 p.m.

Hughes Landing 1725 Hughes Landing Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77380

JULY

13 PLASTIC FILM OUTREACH DAYS*

10 a.m. to noon

Alden Bridge Kroger 8000 Research Forest Dr.. The Woodlands, TX 77380

18 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING JULY

6 p.m.

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77381

FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVITIES

PLASTIC FILM OUTREACH DAYS

ROCK THE ROW SUMMER SERIES

The free concert series, Rock the Row, returns for the summer at Hughes Landing on Thursdays, July 11 through August 8, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Rock the Row features live music, happy hours and specials at Restaurant Row. Blankets, lawn chairs and coolers are permitted. Glass is prohibited. Produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by Howard Hughes.

• July 11 - Party On

• July 18 - Brenda Guy The One Woman Show

• July 25 - Amado J. Garcia

• August 1 - Girl Can’t Help It

• August 8 - Leslie Lugo

• August 15 - Nick and The Hits

Most bands play a variety of music, while some focus on specific tributes and genres. For more details, check out our online calendar.

6 p.m.

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX

6 to 7:30 p.m.

The Woodlands Township

SAVE THE DATE FOR SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

Relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor at Labor Day in The Woodlands! Live music, pie eating contests, children’s activities, fireworks and more!

Photo courtesty of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

HIGH SEAS ADVENTURE

Looking to go on another aquatic adventure? It is not too late to participate in our High Seas Adventure Program! Visit any pool to register your team for free and get started on your scavenger hunt! Residents who visit seven pools will receive a free T-shirt, and those who visit all 14 will get an exclusive T-shirt plus be entered to win a 2025 season pool pass.

POP AT THE POOL (FREE popsicle for season pass holders)

July 8, Monday, 3 to 6 p.m. at Falconwing Pool

July 19, Friday, 4 to 6 p.m. at Ridgewood Pool

July 23, Tuesday, 12 to 2 p.m. at Bear Branch Pool

DIVE IN MOVIE AT BEAR BRANCH POOL

August 10, 2024, at Bear Branch Pool. Featuring Finding Nemo! Gates open at 8 p.m.

LAZY RIVER 5K

Registration is open for the Third Annual Lazy River 5K, set for September 7, 2024, at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center. In this unique event, participants can run or walk against the river’s current for 30 laps to complete the 5K. Participants may also opt to compete in the one-mile fun run. Individual and relay team spots are available. Registration includes an event T-shirt and a finisher medal. Fees range from $10 to $75, depending on the event and number of people.

INVASIVES WORKSHOP TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING

01 ROCK THE ROW SUMMER SERIES*

AUGUST 7 to 9 p.m.

Hughes Landing 1725 Hughes Landing Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77380

AUGUST

03 GROGAN’S MILL FARMERS MARKET*

9 a.m. to noon

Grogan’s Mill Village Center 7 Switchbud Place The Woodlands, TX 77380

AUGUST

17 INVASIVE SPECIES WORKSHOP

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77381

AUGUST

20 BLOOD DRIVE

9 a.m. to noon at The Rob Fleming Recreation Center 6464 Creekside Forest Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77389

AUGUST

22 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

6 p.m.

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77381

AUGUST

28 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

6 p.m.

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77381

AUGUST

29 SALUTE TO FIRST RESPONDERS

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m Blood Drive 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, TX 77381

ENSURING THE FUTURE MODERNIZING OUR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE FOR THE NEXT 50 YEARS

By Woodlands Water

For the past 50 years, The Woodlands has weathered countless natural disasters and rain events. Our wellplanned and well-maintained water utility infrastructure can be attributed to the foresight of our founder, George Mitchell, and his team of talented developers, in collaboration with our 10 Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Our dependable and highquality infrastructure has been one of the many reasons The Woodlands is the premier place to call home in America.

After 50 years of service, some components of our original water and sewer system are nearing the end of their useful life. To continue to provide efficient and reliable service that is compliant with state and federal regulations, the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA), our wholesale water and wastewater services provider, Woodlands Water, and the MUDs are investing in a modernization and rehabilitation effort as outlined in a 10-year capital project plan shared by SJRA in 2023.

The plan lays out a phased approach over the next decade to replace several components of the aging water-related infrastructure in The Woodlands through multiple projects totaling an estimated $590M, including: modernization and replacement of approximately 50 miles of asbestos cement water

lines; replacement of The Woodlands Wastewater Treatment Facility No. 1, our oldest and largest sewer treatment plant (located along Sawdust Road in Grogan’s Mill); and additional renewal projects totaling more than $30M in various stages of study, design and construction.

Studies are underway to further develop project details and identify the best path forward. MUD directors are also working with the SJRA and Woodlands Water to keep project costs as low as possible, recognizing the infrastructure improvements will require a significant investment by Woodlands Water customers within each MUD. The residents of each MUD will vote to determine how the projects will be funded. The Woodlands Infrastructure Projects website will be available soon for residents to find the most up-to-date information on these infrastructure topics. Be on the lookout.

As we look to the next 50 years of The Woodlands, it is clear to see that the vitality of our community hinges on the reliability and resiliency of our infrastructure. Through the collaborative efforts of the SJRA, Woodlands Water, and our Municipal Utility Districts, we are positioned to ensure The Woodlands not only retains its status as a premier residential and commercial destination but also serves as a shining example of resilience and sustainability.

Photo courtesy of the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA)

BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION FILING OPENS JULY 20, 2024

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Election will be held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Candidates may file for placement on the ballot July 20 through August 19, 2024.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

Four at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2024 election, designated as positions 1, 2, 3 and 4. Each position is for a twoyear term.

Candidates may file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions between July 20, 2024, and 5 p.m. on August 19, 2024. The deadline for filing a declaration of a write-in candidacy is 5 p.m. on August 23, 2024. Applications may be (1) mailed to the Township, (2) delivered in person, (3) submitted via facsimile to 281-210-3978, or (4) emailed to elections@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Applications delivered in person are accepted on regular business days during the Township’s office hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regardless of the method of delivery, an application is considered to be filed at the time of its receipt by the Township. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 for more information, such as how to obtain a filing packet. Filing packets are expected to be available for download on the Township’s website during the filing period at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/novemberelection.

The Township anticipates contracting with Harris County and Montgomery County to conduct the election and to use the regular County polling locations for the election.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 18 years of age (as of November 5, 2024)

• Resident of The Woodlands Township for past six (6) months

• Resident of Texas for past twelve (12) months

• U.S. citizen

DISQUALIFICATIONS

• Mental Incompetence

• Conviction of Felony

*

RELEVANT DATES

• July 20, 2024: First day to file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions

• August 19, 2024: Last day to file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions (5 p.m.); Last day to order election

• August 23, 2024: Last day to file a declaration of write-in candidacy (5 p.m.)

• October 7, 2024: Last day to register to vote

• October 21, 2024: First day of early voting by personal appearance

• November 1, 2024: Last day of early voting by personal appearance

• November 5, 2024: Election Day

*The Texas Secretary of State is the chief election officer of the State of Texas and provides the dates set forth herein. Interested persons are encouraged to visit the Secretary of State’s Election Division website at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml or contact the Secretary of State’s Election Division by telephone at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683) to obtain the most current information.

Photo by Kacie Gurney

ARE YOU HOME ALONE?

BY NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES

We are promoting “Set It, Don’t Forget It” as our Project 365 National Night Out safety campaign. The focus is on the importance of setting various alarms to enhance security and prevent crimes. Whether it’s setting your home alarm, using your car alarm, changing the batteries in your smoke alarm, or even carrying a personal alarm on your key ring, these actions can help prevent you from becoming a victim. Summertime often means teenagers may be home alone while parents are at work. Follow these simple yet effective tips and significantly enhance the safety of your home and your loved ones.

Keep the doors locked: Always ensure that all doors are locked. This is the first line of defense against intruders.

Activate your home alarm: If you have a home alarm system, make sure it is activated. This can deter potential burglars and provide an extra layer of security.

Keep the garage door closed: An open garage door can be an invitation to thieves. Keep it closed and locked at all times.

Do not open doors for strangers: Never open the door for someone you don’t know. Always verify the identity of the person at the door through a peephole or security camera.

Remove or hide valuable items from vehicles: Visible valuables in cars can attract thieves. Ensure that all valuable items are removed or hidden from sight.

Lock your car doors: An unlocked car can be an easy target for theft. Make sure all car doors are locked and windows are fully rolled up.

Keep a list of emergency contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including parents, neighbors, police, and fire departments easily accessible. This can be crucial in case of an emergency.

As summer fades and August ushers in a new school year, it’s time for kids to return to their classrooms. With the hustle and bustle of school routines resuming, remember to slow down and stay vigilant in school zones. Put down your device and focus on the road to ensure the safety of children as they start their academic journey.

A GARDEN THAT SHINES DIVINE

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agent; AST Envirothon; The Bredehoft Family; Claude Hunter; The Estep Family; The Fisher Family; The Gerber Family; In Honor of Abuelita Gladys; Julia and Owen’s Grandma Jo; The Reeder Family; The Rosta Family; The Sullivan Family

BY KAT CHRISTENSEN

Do you want to spend less time working in your garden and more time enjoying it? Do you want a garden that will shine divine morning through night? Join us for a fun new series to discover key plants and design tips that will help you do just that.

Amidst the hustle of everyday life, having a peaceful retreat within your own outdoor space can be more than just a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s your morning cup of coffee as the sun rises or your evening glass of wine as it sets, golden hour in the garden, that time of soft light that makes for the most Insta-worthy photos, is also one of the most relaxing times of the day. Texas natives know how to look good while beating the heat –and then kick up their feet! The same is true for our local plant stars, and with a few easy additions, you can have a dreamy landscape that is low on maintenance and high on 24/7 style to enjoy during your next golden hour in the garden.

Gather your friends and join us on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for our July Golden Hours class, Recipe for a 24/7 Landscape, at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. We will have hors d’oeuvres and mocktails for you to enjoy! You can also join us via Zoom. This is a free event but registration is required. Class recordings will be posted to The Woodlands Township YouTube channel.

MOSQUITOES SUCK! PREVENTION DOESN’T.

Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can carry serious viruses like West Nile. When outdoors, use mosquito repellent.

SHOUT OUT TO OUR ADOPT-A-PATH VOLUNTEERS

COCHRAN’S CROSSING: The Ashby Family; Boy Scouts Troop 77; Cochran’s Crossing Crew; College Park High School HOSA; The Figueredo Weiser Family; Girl Scouts Troop 108053; Maggie the Cat; NCL Texas Laurels; The Rhoad Family; Roger Howard; The Torrey Family; The Winningkoff Family

COLLEGE PARK

The Allison Family; The Hanley Family; Walmart Academy #3213 The Woodlands; The Woodlands Christian Academy Interact Club.

CREEKSIDE PARK

Aloha Petsitting of The Woodlands; The Cater Family in loving Memory of Ann Moszkowicz and Sharon Cater; CPJH Cougars4Kindness with Austin Bank; The Dixon Family; The Hawkins Family; HewlettPackard Enterprise; Holcim Spray Foam Heroes; The LeMaster Family; The Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL

The Fry Family; The Gooding Family; Grogan’s Mill Village Association; Gretchen & Scott Marzano; The

Houston Family; Jamie and Friends; NCL – Grand Lilies; The Viverette Family

INDIAN SPRINGS

Andra Wilcox; The Ellison Family; Ovintiv USA; The Schapiro Family; The Sunkavally Family

PANTHER CREEK

Anderson, Wang & Friends; The Barnes Family, Clayton & Diane; The Grimes Hanlin Family; Lee & Cindy Sumner; Lord of Life Lutheran Church; The Redmond Family for Walk and Louise Lisiewski

STERLING RIDGE

The Cianessi Family; The Devitt Family; Halverson Family and Friends In Memory of Jerry and Kay Pierce; NCL Bluebonnets; The Perkins Family; Pilot Project; The Valsangkar Family

RESEARCH FOREST: Entergy Texas; The Woodlands High School Science National Honor Society

TOWN CENTER: TownshipFuture; The Woodlands Lions Club

WE APPRECIATE YOU!

PROTECTING OUR FOREST JOIN THE WOODLANDS INVASIVES TASK FORCE

By Teri MacArthur

Here’s a chance you don’t get every day: increase your positive impact on our waterways while also preserving a great home for all the birds, bees and butterflies we love. It doesn’t get any better than that!

So, how can you get in on this deal? First, learn about the invasive plant species in our community. Then, help monitor, control and remove them so native vegetation can thrive in a healthy environment.

Non-native invasive species are defined as a species whose introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment or human health. Invasive species cause a wide range of negative outcomes, from threatening water resources and degrading forest ecosystems to lowering property values.

As invasive species are both harmful and costly to control, they are often prohibited by state or federal laws from being bought, sold, possessed or moved. However, we have quite a number of these tricky plants in our state and even a few in our community. Finding and controlling invasives early in their arrival to an area aids mitigation efforts, rather than trying to remove them after they have “taken over.”

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department will host an Invasive Species Workshop on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Registration is required, and the workshop will start at 8:30 a.m. and end at noon at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard.

This is a great opportunity to learn how to identify plants that are on the “worst of the worst” list. Information will also be provided on how to join the The Woodlands Invasives Task Force.

The task force is a group of more than 200 volunteers who clear problem species from our pathways, green spaces, and waterways. Often, restoration projects to replace lost native vegetation follow, and this great group of volunteers helps bring new life to our natural spaces. Be a part of the team that safeguards our community’s environment!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: GET ON BOARD WITH TOWNSHIP TRANSIT

By Nicole Mathews

Severe weather can significantly affect traffic, routes and schedules, including delays, re-routes and cancellations. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure a safer and more predictable transit experience during inclement weather.

Here are some key tips to help you navigate your commute safely and efficiently during hurricane season and all seasons:

Sign Up for Alerts:

• Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter) for real-time updates and alerts at Twitter.com/TheTownshipTX

• Register for Woodlands Transit Alert notifications to receive the latest information directly to your email or phone at TheWoodlandsTownship-tx.gov/subscribe

Check the Weather Forecast:

• Before you head out, check local weather forecasts to understand potential impacts on your route, and continue to monitor weather throughout the day.

• Be aware of any severe weather warnings or advisories in your commute area. Your commute may take you across several counties, so it is important to understand how different areas may be impacted.

For Mobile Ticket Users:

Review the Trip Tools section within the app. Here you will find valuable information on schedules, routes, fare information, links

to sign up for alerts and a “track my bus” tool, which shows the location of the buses in real time.

Call the Passenger Assistance Line:

For immediate assistance and up-to-date route information, call our Passenger Assistance Line. Our team is ready to help you navigate any disruptions and depending on call volume, you may need to leave a message for a return call: 832-851-3362.

Plan Ahead:

• Check the Park and Ride schedules, know your stop, and be sure to arrive 5 to 10 minutes before the scheduled bus departure time: www.woodlandstransit.com

• Check your destination business to see if they are still operating during inclement weather (employer, doctor’s office, jury duty, etc.).

• Allow extra travel time during inclement weather to account for possible delays.

• Have alternative routes or backup plans in case your usual route is affected.

• Monitor local news and weather channels for updates.

• Pay attention to any emergency alerts and follow instructions from local authorities.

Remember, your safety is our top priority, and we are here to assist you every step of the way. Plan your journey, sign up for alerts today, and know before you go!

Photo by Mary Connell

NEWS FROM OUR VILLAGE ASSOCIATIONS

ALDEN BRIDGE

Submitted by Greg Sherlock Happy 4th of July from Alden Bridge! The village association board will not meet in July but will reconvene on August 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Township office, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Until then, if you have a concern or would like to make a public comment, feel free to send us an email at abvainfo@ gmail.com.

We know some young people who are busy packing, getting ready to write the next chapter of their young lives at college. We want to congratulate our Alden Bridge Village Association Scholarship winners: Roberto Tamez, Krishan Gupta, Sruthi Panja and Cindy Shen! Each student received a $1,000 scholarship, with one generously sponsored by Kumon for 2024!

As we have done in previous years, when funds allow, the Alden Bridge Village Association will sponsor a $1,500 scholarship for an unnamed recipient at the Montgomery County Women’s Center.

Kudos to our May winner of the Yard of the Month Program, Hillary Nixon of Fallsbury Way. Lots of effort went into making Hillary’s yard stand out, and we congratulate her!

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program continues through this summer. Please look around the village for this month’s winner and send your nominations for best front yard in Alden Bridge to abvainfo@ gmail.com. Nominate your neighbors (or yourself - it’s ok)! While you’re out walking, just make note of that neighbor’s address and they could be a winner!

Interested in more Alden Bridge news? We continue to publish our monthly electronic village newsletter. To join our

subscriber list of over 1,000 households, please send your email address to abvainfo@ gmail.com. Your email address will never be shared and will be used only for news of our village. In addition, you can always visit our Facebook page and our website, www. aldenbridge.org, for additional updates.

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Submitted by Cynthia Kessinger

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association held its first evening pool party and splash pad event in June. Thank you to all who attended! A special thanks to Kroger for supplying cookies and water for the event.

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association is grateful to all who submitted applications for consideration for five scholarships. While all applications were outstanding, Matthew McMullen, Vanessa Tetz and Luke Tresaugue from The Woodlands High School and Presley Robinson and Zachary Thibodeaux from The Woodlands College Park High School were each awarded $1,000 towards college tuition. We wish all applicants well in their continued education!

As a reminder, if you plan to travel this summer, consider signing up for the vacation watch program for added security for your residence through the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

The board is busy planning the free family Fall Festival. Please mark your calendar for October 20, 2024, from 1 to 4 p.m. More details will be coming as the date nears. There will be games, food, music, inflatables, a petting zoo and more! It’s always a fun afternoon and we look forward to seeing you there!

The village board is selling booths for the fall festival to 100% benefit the teacher

grant and scholarship fund. It is a great opportunity to advertise your business to the community. If you are interested in a booth, please visit cochranscrossing.org for more details and follow us on Facebook.

We look forward to serving the residents and welcome hearing from you. Reach out to us by attending a meeting, contacting us through Facebook or emailing us at communicationsforccva@gmail. com. If you are interested in serving on the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association board, please send us an email!

Please join us at upcoming meetings of the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association on Tuesday, July 23 and August 27 at 6:30 p.m. at The Woodlands Township building.

Please follow Village of Cochran’s Crossing Association on Facebook and Instagram, and find us at our website, www.cochranscrossing.org.

GROGAN’S MILL

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association awarded a total of $25,000 in scholarships to the following Grogan’s Mill residents: Julianna Griffith, Claire Jones, Ana Berlioz Moreno, Ashton Wendell, Sara Jane Rothe, Carter Best, Cabelo Camiro, Sofia ValdesVillarreal Banales, Bianca Pethe, Cole Funston, Catherine Cassidy, Charles Ross, Attessa Cohen, Tiffany Enriquez, Megan Wilkins, Karys Bryant, Edmund Bayot, James Dickerson III and Ameera Khichi.

Scholarships are awarded based on the criteria of financial need, academic excellence, community service and recommendations from counselors, teachers or employers. Congratulations to all of them for the outstanding performance. The Grogan’s

Mill Village Association awards scholarships annually, funded by the profits from The Woodlands Farmers Market. The Woodlands Farmers Market is open every Saturday at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center.

Grogan’s Mill Village Association’s Annual Planning Meeting was held Sunday, March 3, to discuss goals and objectives for the coming year, operating budget, philanthropic objectives and committee assignments. The association also recently donated $3,000 to South County Friends of the Library.

The April award for Grogan’s Mill Village Association Yard of the Month went to Scott and Gail Haynes who have lived in The Woodlands in three different houses for 36 years and all have been in Grogan’s Mill!

Want to submit a neighbor’s or your own yard for this award? Email your nomination to bellacruzsoldit@gmail.com by the 26th of the month. Be sure to include the homeowner’s name, phone number and email address. Winners receive a $50 gift certificate to The Woodlands Farmers Market at Grogan’s Mill.

INDIAN SPRINGS

Submitted by Aimee Pearce

The Indian Springs Village Association is proud to recognize good citizenship and community service by annually awarding tuition scholarships to several graduating seniors. Applicants must be residents of the Village of Indian Springs and must meet rigorous scholastic and community service standards. For 2024, our village received 11 incredible applications, reminding us of the intelligence, persistence and kindness our students possess!

The scholarship committee

If your village is not listed, it means the Township did not receive an update from your village association. Contact your village association to encourage them to submit information for inclusion.

had a very difficult time selecting our winners, and we’re excited and pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s Indian Springs Village Association Scholarship awards: Megan Orr, Alexa Tran and Macie Mize of The Woodlands High School, Jessica Bazaldua of Frassati Catholic High School and Krishna Venugopal of The John Cooper School.

A $1,500 Service Scholarship has been awarded to each of these outstanding students in recognition of their commitment to community service. Thank you to all the fantastic students who submitted applications this year–the Indian Springs Village Association appreciates your achievements and dedication to your community.

Mark your calendars now for the 19th Annual Taste of the Village: October 26, 2024, noon to 3 p.m. at the Indian Springs Village Center. This free annual family event features entertainment from local youth performers, amazing prizes, free food samples and multiple activities for kids. Taste of the Village is one of the most anticipated community events, drawing more than 3,000 people from across The Woodlands. Initiated over 18 years ago by the Indian Springs Village Association, Taste of the Village was designed to be an outreach effort to bring residents and businesses together for a fun-filled, familyfriendly occasion.

All funds raised from the event go toward the Indian Springs Village Association scholarship fund for graduating seniors. Taste of the Village is co-sponsored by the Indian Springs Village Association, H-E-B and Regency Centers. For more information on the event and sponsorship opportunities, or to reserve a booth, please visit our website www.indianspringstx.com, our Facebook page @indianspringstx, or contact ISVAtasteofthevillage@gmail.com.

PANTHER CREEK

Submitted by Kyle Suchma

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Panther Creek Village Association scholarships: Madelyn Puza and Shreyas Vatts. Madelyn Puza is embarking on her academic journey at The University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School, where she will focus her studies on environmental, social and governance factors for business. Meanwhile, Shreyas Vatts will be pursuing mechanical engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. Both Madelyn and Shreyas have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their studies and community, embodying the values of academic excellence and service. We congratulate them on their achievements and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Get ready to grab your blankets because on October 5, 2024, we’re hosting a movie night at Meadowlake Park! It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family for a cozy evening under the stars. Stay tuned for more details as we finalize plans. Be sure to keep an eye on our website (www.panthercreekvillage. org) and social media for updates and announcements. We can’t wait to see you there!

Your engagement is important to our community’s vitality. We invite you to join us for our monthly gatherings, held the second Thursday of the month at The Woodlands Township, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., starting at 6 p.m. This is an opportunity to connect with fellow residents, exchange ideas and play a part in fostering the atmosphere of Panther Creek.

STERLING RIDGE

Submitted by R Schwarzkopf We hope everyone is staying cool and comfortable this summer. There’s a lot to look forward to in July: The 4th of July parade and the 2nd Annual Golf Scramble on the 10th! The Annual Golf Scramble helps raise money for our elementary schools and scholarships. If you haven’t signed up to play, check our website at www.sterling-ridge.org.

The annual Sterling Ridge Village Association FREE pool party at Cranebrook Park is coming up as well in July. It’s such a busy and fun month, we will not have our monthly meeting. August is reserved for our residents to get ready for school! We will have a monthly meeting on August 1 at the REMAX office on Woodlands Parkway in front of Kroger at 7 p.m. Our residents are always welcome to attend.

BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR by safeguarding our community from fire.

Home fireworks can lead to unintended outcomes such as forest fires or damage to neighboring properties.

Residents are reminded to help keep the community safer by avoiding the discharge of home fireworks, as outlined by The Woodlands Covenants.

The Woodlands Township is situated in a beautiful forest, and one errant spark could severely damage the community.

There are no changes in trash and recycling service in July and August. For more information about Waste Management services, please visit

The Woodlands Fire Department reminds residents to use 9-1-1 for emergencies only.

Be a good neighbor this Fourth of July by joining your neighbors at the Township celebrations for a memorable holiday. Read pages 5-6 for more information.

REGISTRATION FOR FALL PROGRAMS OPENS ON AUGUST 12!

Summer may still be in full swing, but The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department is already hard at work planning an exciting slate of activities and events for fall. Keep an eye out for our Fall Action Guide posted online in early August. From familiar favorites to all new offerings, there is no better time of year than autumn to enjoy an activity in one of the Township’s many beautiful locations.