February 2024

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A MEDICAL HUB OF ITS OWN

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP FEBRUARY 2024 COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

A 1985 photo

the grand opening ceremonies for The Woodlands Hospital, now Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center. Photo

Hughes

TOWNSHIP STAFF

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR LeaAnn Petersen

EDITOR Mary Connell

SENIOR COPY EDITOR Kacie Gurney

COPY EDITOR Perry Frank

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Barbara Ryan

CHAMPIONS STAFF

PRESIDENT, PUBLISHER James E. Callahan, Jr.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jim Callahan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Charlene Strine

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Woodlands Township, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to residents of The Woodlands. The printing and distribution of The Woodlands Community Magazine are supported entirely by advertising revenue. Please patronize the advertisers whenever possible, and tell them you saw their ad in this magazine and appreciate their support.

The Woodlands Community Magazine has earned three Communicator Awards of Distinction, the Bronze Quill Award of Merit from the Houston Chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators, a Merit Award from The Service Industry Advertising Awards and a Gold MarCom Award.

Editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX, 77381, 281-210-3800. Editorial deadlines are the 15th of every month, approximately six weeks in advance of publication. The editors

all

to accept or reject any submissions and reserve all rights to edit for clarity and space. The Woodlands Community Magazine is the official information source of The Woodlands Township. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 1 3 Message from the Chairman 4 How a First Hospital Helped Set the Foundation for The Woodlands of Today 5 We’re Hiring: Aquatics Positions 6 Get to Know Your Neighbors 7 Dive Into WaterSmart 8 Calendar of Events in The Woodlands 8 Village Elections 8 The Woodlands Rodeo Express 8 311 Service Request 9 Community Election Signage Information 10 News from the Village Associations 11 Challenge-by-Choice at Texas TreeVentures 12 Did You Remember to Set Your Alarm? 12 Fill Spring Break with Camp Fun INSIDE AT A GLANCE FEBRUARY 2024 ON
COVER
THE
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courtesy of Howard
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inquiries, rate requests and change of address/ delivery inquiries may be directed to... Champions Printing & Publishing 6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G Houston, TX, 77069 281-583-7661
We LOVE our Volunteers! Thank you for your service to The Woodlands Township LIVE, WORK, PLAY & VOLUNTEER with The Woodlands Township! www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/volunteer The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department is recognizing our many wonderful volunteers during the week of Valentine’s Day in February 2024. If you volunteered with us during 2023, THANK YOU for serving our community!
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activities of the Township and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the Township takes precedence over information submitted by any
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CONNECT WITH THE TOWNSHIP

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Aswe move into the new year, The Woodlands Township is operating a fiscally sound budget ensuring every dollar is allocated efficiently to meet the needs of our residents. The 2024 budget includes a lower tax rate, which is not only a testament to our commitment to financial responsibility but also a recognition of the economic challenges faced by many in our community.

To support our residents further, your Board of Directors has implemented a homestead exemption for homeowners. Additionally, for those who have reached the age of 65 and above or are disabled, we are including an additional exemption to alleviate the financial burden to those who have contributed immensely to the rich tapestry of our community.

Recognizing the paramount importance of public safety, we have decided to channel additional funds into our contracted law enforcement, enhancing our community’s security and fostering a safer environment for all. Moreover, we are enhancing several Township services, including funding the renovation of our Emergency Training Center and several park and recreation improvements.

Recreation

Law

County

Montgomery

Montgomery

Montgomery

Harris County Precinct 3 713-274-3000

Water Providers

Woodlands Water (Montgomery County MUDs) 855-H20-SAVE (855-426-7283)

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

Emergency 9-1-1 For emergency information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST-FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.

To preserve and enhance the natural beauty of The Woodlands, we are making a significant investment of $1 million in reforestation efforts. This initiative underscores our dedication to environmental sustainability and the well-being of our unique ecosystem.

As we embark on this new year, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and participation in the growth of The Woodlands. Together, let us build a future that reflects the values and aspirations of our remarkable community.

Sincerely,

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 3 DR. ANN K. SNYDER Chairman, Position 6
FRANKS Treasurer, Position 3
NELSON Secretary, Position 2 CINDY HEISER Director, Position 7
RICHARD
LINDA
SHELLEY
Director, Position 5
DR.
SEKULA-GIBBS
Vice Chairman, Position 4
KYLE
WATSON
BAILEY Director, Position 1 MONIQUE SHARP President and CEO The Woodlands Township ............................................... 281-210-3800 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. The Woodlands, Texas 77381 Fire Department Non-Emergency ..................................... 281-367-3444 Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 281-210-3800 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381
Center at Bear Branch Park 281-210-3950 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381
BRAD
Recreation
Center at Rob Fleming Park 281-516-7348 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77389
Enforcement Agencies
County Sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500 Non-Emergency 24 hours 936-442-7797 Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000 Montgomery County Constable Precinct 3 281-364-4211
County Constable Precinct 4 281-376-3472
Montgomery
Harris
Service Providers
County Precinct 2 281-259-6492
County Precinct 3 281-367-3977
County Precinct 4 281-577-8919
VISIONARY COMMUNITY ROOTED IN NATURE

A MEDICAL HUB OF ITS OWN:

How a First Hospital Helped Set the Foundation for The Woodlands of Today

George P. Mitchell, the incredibly forward-thinking founder of The Woodlands, understood the importance of having top notch medical facilities in his vision of creating a Live, Work, Play, Learn and Pray sustainable community. It is a vital component of The Woodlands to provide care for all stages of life, from pediatrics, family medicine, geriatrics and specialized services.

Mitchell proved to be instrumental in the opening of the community’s first hospital – The Woodlands Hospital – in 1985 (now known as Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center) and stepped in again in 2009 when the hospital stood on the verge of bankruptcy.

“I believe George Mitchell actually guaranteed $16 million of the $20 million (in loans) it took to build that first hospital,” said Steve Sanders, the former longtime CEO of Memorial Hermann The Woodlands, who worked for the hospital system for 32 years. “So George Mitchell was very instrumental from the beginning.”

All that has grown into a worldclass medical hub of its own, a nexus of hospitals that has created its own medical center north of Houston. Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, St. Luke’s Health-The Woodlands Hospital, St. Luke’s Health-Lakeside Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital and MD Anderson The Woodlands give The Woodlands region an extensive roster of hospitals that few communities of any size can match.

“It’s turned into a major medical center which was the original vision,” Sanders says.

In Sanders’ expert estimation, two items set the table for this medical community to continue to thrive and succeed — the creation of a strong surgical program and Howard Hughes continuing to make medical and healthcare a priority, having recently built MD Anderson The Woodlands, Memorial Hermann Primary Care Center and Creekside Park Medical Plaza.

It is all part of making George Mitchell’s original vision for The Woodlands a continuing reality. With The Woodlands in its 50th anniversary year (The Woodlands officially opened on October 19, 1974), this is a community whose residents do not have to leave the area to receive some of the best health care in the world.

“With a long list of accolades, top rankings and recognitions for all these hospital systems, it is easy to see that no matter what stage you are in life, The Woodlands has an array of health care options to fit your specific needs that are convenient and close to home,” says Jim Carman, President of the Houston Region for Howard Hughes.

The Woodlands community has enthusiastically welcomed these hospitals with a fervor that Sanders, whose father was a hospital CEO before him (most prominently at Hospital Metropolitan in San Antonio), never really saw before or since.

“It was huge,” Sanders remembers. “We did a big grand opening of that hospital and had a great turnout. I couldn’t believe it myself. It was unbelievable. And then we went and did another expansion and that was outstanding.”

An important part of The Woodlands’ medical vision from the beginning centered around the idea that the foundational hospital should not be a for-profit hospital. This came up again when the original hospital in The Woodlands later faced a possible bankruptcy.

“We wanted to make sure it never fell into for-profit hands,” Sanders says. “And there were a lot of for-profit hospitals in the area that wanted that hospital.”

Some things need to be community centered. Medical care in The Woodlands started that way — and largely continues

4 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2024
Community leaders celebrated the grand opening of The Woodlands Hospital in 1985. Photo courtesy of Howard Hughes

on that vein today. When that first hospital opened and the crowd turned out for that 1985 celebration with George Mitchell taking to the podium, in what still was a very young community at the time, the stage started getting set.

Having a hospital of its own helped set The Woodlands apart from other new communities in Texas. It became a badge of honor that’s even more difference making today.

“It was the only hospital at the time,” Sanders says. “So it was extremely important. It has been built since into a multi-facility center. It has grown tremendously.”

The Woodlands is recognized as a cultural arts hub — home to one of the largest collections of public art for a community of its size and the annual The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival. It also stands out as music center — with top artists performing at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, one of the top-ranked amphitheaters in the world, its own symphony and intimate live music shows. It is already a recognized sports destination

— home to the Memorial Hermann IRONMAN TEXAS North American Championship, the annual Insperity Invitational (PGA Champions Tour) and the Chevron LPGA Championship, one of the LPGA Tour’s major championships. On a daily basis, more people commute into The Woodlands for work than out these days for good reason.

What many don’t realize is that the hospital growth in The Woodlands and the community’s emergence as a medical hub helped make much of that possible.

Steve Sanders, who worked in the hospital world for nearly four decades, considers The Woodlands’ run the highlight of his career. “It was very gratifying,” Sanders says, “I thoroughly enjoyed every minute I was there. The people are just outstanding.”

The Woodlands always has been a special place, with visionaries making more and more possible.

This article was provided by Howard Hughes in recognition of the world-renowned healthcare system that has grown in The Woodlands over the past 50 years.

Water Safety Instructor

Must be 16 years of age or older by June 1

Head Water Safety Instructor

Must be 17 years of age or older by June 1

Lifeguards

Head Swim Coach

Assistant Swim Coach

Team Recreational Specialist

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 5
WE ARE HIRING!
and Training Provided!
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APPLY NOW!

Get to Know Your Neighbors

In the fast-paced world we live in, fostering a sense of security within our neighborhoods is more crucial than ever. Safety Awareness Days have emerged as a powerful tool.

Creating a Sense of Community

One of the key benefits of Safety Awareness Days is the ability to foster a sense of community among neighbors. These events provide a platform for residents to interact with The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services staff and public safety personnel.

Promoting Proactive Safety Measures

Safety Awareness Days serve as an opportunity to educate residents about preventive measures and best practices. A range of topics are covered including home security, personal safety and emergency preparedness.

Building Relationships with Public Safety

These events also facilitate an open line of communication between residents and local public safety. Community

policing initiatives, where law enforcement engages with residents in a non-enforcement setting, help build trust and understanding. Safety Awareness Days provide a friendly environment for residents to interact with law enforcement officers, firefighters and other emergency responders, fostering positive relationships that are essential for effective community policing.

Addressing Specific Concerns

Every neighborhood faces unique safety challenges, and Safety Awareness Days allow residents to address these concerns directly. Whether it’s addressing traffic safety, suspicious activity, or implementing environmental improvements, these events provide a platform for residents to voice their concerns and work collaboratively on solutions.

Encouraging The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch Program

Safety Awareness Days often catalyze the formation or revitalization of The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program. This program encourages residents to be vigilant, look out for one another and report suspicious activity. The sense of shared responsibility that develops within this program contributes significantly to the overall safety of The Woodlands.

Neighbor knowing neighbor is the first step in crime prevention! If you’re interested in organizing a Safety Awareness Day in your neighborhood, taking the initiative is the first step toward fostering a safer and more connected community. To get started, simply call 281-210-3800 and ask to speak to your Village Program Specialist. They will guide you through the process and provide valuable information on how to plan and execute a successful Safety Awareness Day tailored to the specific needs of your neighborhood.

6 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2024
SOAR WITH US! Exceptional Christian education for children from Pre-K4 through 8th grade Applications for the 2024-2025 school year NOW OPEN! Schedule a tour or find out how to become an Eagle at twmschool.org
Let us teach your child to soar!
The
Woodlands Methodist School admits students of any race, color and national or ethnic origin.

Dive into WaterSmart to Save Money and Water in 2024

WaterSmart is a free, state-of-the-art online platform that provides Woodlands Water customers access to detailed information about their water usage. It was first rolled out the end of 2021 and now over 10,000 homes are using it. Here are just a few things WaterSmart can do for you:

• Track water consumption: See when and where you’re using water in near real time. Compare usage to similar households.

• Get Leak Alerts: Avert disaster with instant alerts by phone or email.

• Get high bill alerts. Receive warnings about excessive water usage and a higher-than-normal bill.

• Find tips for conserving water and irrigating efficiently. Tailored to your household.

• Receive notifications on service outages and emergency situations.

• Sign up for a free irrigation system evaluation.

• Learn about your water quality.

How to Register: Signing up for WaterSmart is a breeze and completely free! Just visit woodlandswater.org and click on Water Smart. All you need is your zip code and Woodlands Water account number (found on your water bill). Can’t locate your account number? No worries, just send us an email at info@ woodlandswater.org or call 855-H2O-SAVE.

About The Woodlands Water Agency: Woodlands Water is the central management agency for 10 Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) serving The Woodlands in Montgomery County. The services we provide are water distribution, wastewater collection, storm drainage, and public outreach and education.

Woodlands Water and applies to customers of Woodlands Water.

Knowledge heals the heart.

Each patient is unique. That’s why our team of cardiovascular experts is committed to healing every kind of heart. St. Luke’s Health has been recognized as one of the best providers in the nation for Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery, proving our dedication to providing unparalleled care.

St. Luke’s Health is paving the way for new discoveries and revolutionary advancements in treating our patients and their hearts.

The hearts that love, care, comfort, and heal—we treat them all.

Learn more at StLukesHealth.org/Cardiology

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 7

calendar of events

Please visit the Township’s online calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar for the very latest information on Township-related activities.

FEBRUARY

12

Convenience Voting

February 12 through 16, 2024

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard

The Woodlands, TX 77381

RDRC and Village Associations positions

17

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Election Day

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard

The Woodlands, TX 77381

RDRC and Village Associations positions

17

Muddy Trails 5K

3 p.m., Rob Fleming Park

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ muddytrails

18

Concert in the Park Samy Jo (Variety)

5:30 p.m., Northshore Park

Sidewalk Chalk is back. Grab some chalk and let your imagination do the rest!

22

Board of Directors Meeting

6 p.m., The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard

The Woodlands, TX 77381

24

9 a.m. to noon

Get it in Gear Touch-a-Truck

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389

This classic Township event has been a community favorite for years. Some of the coolest emergency vehicles, cleanest service rigs and toughest trucks in Texas.

25

Concert in the Park Jesse Stratton Band (Alternative Country)

5:30 p.m., Northshore Park

The most beloved concert series in town returns to Northshore Park in 2024.

Board of Directors Meeting

6 p.m., The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard

The Woodlands, TX 77381

Village Elections

Election Day is February 17, 2024 Remember to Vote!

All voting for the Residential Design Review Committees and Village Associations will take place at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Residents and property owners may take advantage of convenience voting from Monday, February 12 through Friday, February 16, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Election Day, Saturday, February 17, 2024, polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For any Residential Design Review Committee or Village Association that does not have a contested race as of 5 p.m. on January 24 (the deadline to file as a write-in or to retract candidacy), the entity’s election will be cancelled and the seating and/or filling of vacancies will proceed in accordance with the entity’s bylaws. A list of contested and cancelled elections will be posted on the Township website prior to the start of early voting. Candidates filed will also be posted to the website.

Find out more at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ februaryelection.

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Catch It While You Can! The Woodlands Rodeo Express The Woodlands Express can get you to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and back for just $13. Heck, that’s less than a parking spot. But seats are filling up fast, so get online or scan the QR code below to make your reservations today! www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/rodeo
8 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2024 Round$13Trip The Woodlands 311 Service Request Portal NEW! TheWoodlands311.com Access portal at TheWoodlands311.com Report Concerns Expediated Requests Available in Apple Store & Google Play

Community Election Signage Information

February Residential Design Review Committee and Village Association Elections

For the February election of Residential Design Review Committees and Village Associations offices, all of which are non-governmental elections, the owner of a lot may display one political sign promoting a candidate for each office or issue on the ballot on his or her Residential or Commercial Lot. The sign(s) may be displayed beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the day of the election. A two-sided sign is considered one sign.

In addition, the non-governmental election signs must be in good repair and aesthetically pleasing in keeping with the character of the community. The signs must not be lighted, accompanied by music, sound, balloons or streamers, or be distracting to motorists. The yard signs are not to exceed six square feet in area, and not exceed five feet in total installed height (including the mounting post). Signs are not permitted in public road rights-of-way.

During early voting, two election signs promoting each candidate or issue on the ballot may be placed at least 25 feet from the building entrance at the early voting polling site during the 24-hour period preceding the day early voting begins and must be removed within 24 hours following the day early voting ends. In addition, a marker noting 25 feet from the polling site entrance will be made to limit electioneering in the entry area. On Election Day, signs may be placed at the polling place 24 hours before the day of the election and must be removed within 24 hours following the day of the election. Signs are not permitted in the public road rights-of-way.

Generic voting signs displayed during the convenience voting period and on Election Day are signs installed by The Woodlands Township. These signs do not advocate or support a particular candidate or issue.

Governmental Elections

For governmental elections conducted by the county, state, or federal government (including primary elections) or by any political sub-division of the state (including the November election of Township Directors), the owner of a lot may display one political sign promoting a candidate for each office or issue on the ballot on his or her Residential or Commercial Lot. The sign(s) may be displayed beginning the 90th day preceding the regular election day and must be removed within 10 days following the day of the election or runoff election. A two-sided sign is considered one sign.

In addition, the political signs must be ground-mounted, and not attached in any way to plant material, traffic control devices, light standards, trailers, vehicles or other existing structures or objects. Political signs cannot exceed four feet high by six feet wide, and not exceed five feet in total installed height (including the post, if any). Signs must not contain any offensive language or graphics, or display anything deemed offensive, must not be lighted, accompanied by music, sound, balloons or streamers. Signs must not be portable or distracting to motorists. A two-sided sign is considered one sign. Signs cannot be placed in public road rights-of-way.

This is a summary of the sign standard only. For complete information regarding the sign standards for elections in The Woodlands, please contact the Township Covenant Administration Department at 281-210-3973.

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 9

news from village associations

GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

No changes in service this month. Please watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service or visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ holidaytrash.

ALDEN BRIDGE

News submitted by Greg Sherlock

This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are scheduled at the Township Townhall, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. If you would like to attend, have a public comment or concern, or just have a question, you can always feel free to send us an e-mail at abvainfo@gmail.com.

Our village association elections will be held later this month. The Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC) and Village Association Election Day will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Convenience voting will occur for one week leading up to Election Day (Monday, February 12 through Friday, February 16) with voting hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voting will take place at the Township Townhall, located at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. This year, Alden Bridge will elect nine at-large Area Representatives and five members to the RDRC.

We have some open seats on our Alden Bridge Village Association Board and it truly only requires a limited amount of time each month. The great thing is, you learn firsthand what’s going on in your village and you act as a representative to share that information with your neighbors and friends in Alden Bridge. If interested, send us an email at abvainfo@gmail.com and we’ll tell you more about the opportunity as well as schedule a time to meet.

It’s time to think about our 2024 scholarship program, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. If you or

someone you know will begin higher education later this year, don’t hesitate to apply for one of our scholarships. All graduating high school students residing in Alden Bridge are eligible to apply. See your high school counselor for details or find more information and the scholarship application at www.aldenbridge.org/scholarships.

For more news of our village, please visit our Facebook page and sign up for our monthly email newsletter. Just send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com and we’ll sign you up. Enjoy the month and have a happy Valentine’s Day!

GROGAN’S MILL

News submitted by Jennifer Robinson

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association will be awarding scholarships this spring. Scholarships are open to all graduating high school and current college students who are residents of Grogan’s Mill at the time of application. Applicants must also be in good standing at their school at the time of application. Applicants may attend either a two- or four-year college or vocational school. Applications may be obtained from school guidance counselors, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association website, www.gmva.org, or from any Grogan’s Mill Village Association Board member. Completed applications must be received by March 28, 2024. For full details on qualifying and selection criteria, and the application form, use the following link: www.grogansmill.org/scholarships.

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association recently donated $12,000 to the four Grogan’s Mill schools ($3,000 each): Hailey Elementary, Lamar Elementary, Wilkerson Intermediate and Knox Junior High. The Grogan’s Mill Village Association also made a $5,000 donation to Interfaith of The Woodlands. We are proud to partner with an organization that is committed to having such a positive impact on residents of The Woodlands and surrounding area. All donations are funded by proceeds from The Woodlands Farmers’ Market. We thank all who support The Woodlands

Farmers’ Market on a weekly basis.

There is plenty of produce, honey, meats, bread and prepared food to enjoy throughout the week at The Woodlands Farmers’ Market. The market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors that sell everything from produce to eggs to meat to artisan goods, most Saturdays we have live music. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Profits from Farmers’ Market vendor fees are returned to our community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

STERLING RIDGE

News submitted by Robbie Schwarzkopf

Happy February! We made it through the holidays and the post-holiday cleanup, so now it’s time to get ready for all the great events happening here in Sterling Ridge Village. There’s the kids’ fishing tournament at Pepperdale Park in April and our scholarship awards in May. The 2nd Annual Golf Scramble will be in June, a pool party to cool off at Cranebrook Pool in July and then the delicious and fun-filled BBQ Cook-off in October. It’s going to be fun and a great way to support the kids in our village.

Residents are welcome to attend our meetings held at the ReMax office in front of Kroger on Woodlands Parkway the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.

10 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2024
Pictured, left to right, President of Grogan’s Mill Village Association Aaron Hoffstadter, Interfaith CEO Missy Herdon and Secretary of Grogan’s Mill Village Association Kelly Lewis.

Challenge-by-Choice at Texas TreeVentures

Are you looking for an exciting and thrilling adventure in The Woodlands, Texas?

Look no further than Texas TreeVentures! We are located next to the Rob Fleming Recreation Center in Creekside Park. The aerial adventure course will take you to new heights and is perfect for ages 6 and up. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a solo adventure or a special date night with your significant other, Texas TreeVentures has something for everyone.

At Texas TreeVentures, you’ll embark on an entirely self-guided, challenge-bychoice and non-linear series of obstacles and elements, each designed to push you to your limits and help you explore the beauty of the George Mitchell Nature Preserve. Nearly 100 different obstacle and challenges are distributed among our three different levels of elevation. The four different ratings are:

GREEN (EASY ) Sturdiest elements with relative ease to cross. Most elements are bridges or similar traversals with minor variations. The challenge is largely psychological.

TIP: Hold the belay cable for a reduced challenge or go no-hands for an increased challenge!

BLUE (MEDIUM) Shaking, moving, or sliding elements with an ability to alternatively “zip” across. Most blue elements are intended to be done a certain way, but they don’t have to be. TIP: On blue obstacles that allow for it, try zipping straight across while holding onto your Smart Belays. This is often the fastest way to get to the next platform.

BLACK (HARD) Difficult elements requiring technically-advanced navigation with no “zip” alternative. Our elements that are rated black must be done as intended, and often require creative technique and stamina to traverse successfully. TIP: If you are unsure of how to approach a black obstacle, don’t hesitate to ask one our Guides for advice.

ORANGE (HARDEST ) Very difficult elements requiring extreme, technically advanced navigation. Balance, strength and endurance (often upper body) is required. Make sure you’ve got enough gas in the tank before attempting an orange element. TIP: Our guides are trained to assist and rescue anyone unable to successfully complete an obstacle. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance should you find yourself unable to complete an obstacle

Tickets are $40 for ages 6-12 and $45 for ages 13+. The price includes all equipment needed and a three-hour climbing session. Texas Treeventures offers birthday packages, group rates and private events. If you’re looking for an adventure in your backyard, visit our website, texastreeventures.com to secure your reservation today.

FEBRUARY 2024 THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE 11
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If you have an alarm, please use it. Setting your alarm helps alert law enforcement and neighbors to a possible crime in progress.

Make Sure Your Alarm is Registered

Both Montgomery County and Harris County require that their residents register their alarms by completing an agreement and submitting it for a permit. To register an alarm and learn the rules for your county:

• Montgomery County: Visit www.mctxsheriff.org to fill out an agreement form for a new or previously registered alarm permit, learn alarm tips and find out about false alarm prevention. For questions, please call 936-760-5830.

• Harris County, the Village of Creekside Park: Visit www.hcsoalarmpermit.com to fill out an agreement for a permit for new alarms or renewals and to view a copy of the alarm permit brochure. For questions, please call 713-755-4600.

Do you know how your alarm works and what features your alarm has? If the answer is “no,” then it’s time for a refresher. To learn more about your alarm, contact your alarm company. For more information, please visit the Township’s Neighborhood Services Department section of the website at thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/neighborhoodservices.

Fill Spring Break with Camp Fun

Sunny Dayz Camp

March 11 – March 15, 2024, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sign up now for Spring Break Camp at Sunny Dayz at Rob Fleming Rec Center, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389. Campers will enjoy activities ranging from sports, crafts, gym games, the park and much more. Each camp day will include a special planned activity listed in the calendar below. Break camps allow your camper to enjoy their break by being active, meeting new friends and making memories!

AGES Explorers – 6 to 8, Adventurers – 9 to 12

COST PER CHILD .............................................

$200 for the week*

*Beginning in 2024, Sunny Dayz Camp registration is by full week only.

Monday, March 11 Nature Hike and Outdoor Craft

Tuesday, March 12 ................................. Sunny Dayz Rodeo

Wednesday, March 13 ......................................... Movie Day

Thursday, March 14 .............................................. Kayaking

Friday, March 15 ........................

Back-to-School Field Day

THE WOODLANDS COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2024 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. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. 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. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2024. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.
Remember
Did You
to Set Your Alarm?
Please visit www.sunnydayzcamp.com or call Rob Fleming Recreation Center at 281-516-7348.

THERE’S A BETTER APPROACH TO CANCER CARE in The Woodands

At Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center, we treat every aspect of your cancer. Leading oncologists work with our specialists across disciplines to minimize cancer’s effects on major organs. One comprehensive team — dedicated to your individual care — uses the latest research, treatments and technology to stop your cancer. From infusion and clinical trials to surgery and reconstruction, our innovative care is available in The Woodlands.

That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

936.270.3333

houstonmethodist.org/cancer-woodlands

B aytown Willowbrook Sugar Land The Woodlands Clear Lake Katy-West Houston Tex as Medical Center
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