July 2023

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

Fire Department (non-emergency) 281-367-3444

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

COUNTY SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Precinct 2 281-259-6492

Montgomery County Precinct 3 281-367-3977

Montgomery County Precinct 4 281-577-8919

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

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

Township Holds Strategic Planning Session, Addresses Resident Concerns

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors held a Special Budget Strategic Planning Session in late May where directors discussed the upcoming 2024 Budget Process that will take place in August 2023. Topics will include public enhancements at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center and continued discussion of a performing arts center.

The Board recently reversed its decision to construct restrooms at Capstone Park based on new recommendations by Township staff in consideration of residents’ concerns. Due to the unique characteristics of Capstone Park, this decision will reclassify Capstone Park from an Area Park to a Neighborhood Park and will reallocate funding approved for the restrooms at Capstone Park to other improvement projects.

The Board also approved reforestation efforts in the Kayak Ridge area of Creekside Park to provide a buffer for 27 homes that back up to a new nonWoodlands development to the south and east.

In addition, the Board received an update on recent activity by Woodlands Water and area Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) to reconstitute the One Water Task Force to facilitate communication and discussion of water-related issues.

For more information on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors and meeting activity, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/board or www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/meetingvideos.

Brad Bailey Director, Position 1

Richard Franks Treasurer, Position 3

Kyle Watson Vice Chairman, Position 4

Dr. Ann K. Snyder Chairman, Position 6

Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs Director, Position 5

Linda Nelson Secretary, Position 2

Bob Milner Director, Position 7 Monique Sharp President and CEO

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

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

Advertising 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.

Editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., The Woodlands, TX, 77381, telephone 281-210-3800. Editorial deadlines are the 15th of every month, approximately six weeks in advance of publication. The editors reserve all rights to accept or reject any submissions and reserve all rights to edit for clarity and space. The Woodlands Community Magazine is the official information source of The Woodlands Township. Its purpose is to inform Woodlands residents about the activities of the Township and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents. Information from the Township takes precedence over information submitted by any other source.

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

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executive Jim Callahan

Graphic Designer Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

6608 FM 1960 W., Suite G Houston, Texas 77069 281-583-7661

www.championsprinting.com

KEEP YOU MOVING

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Conroe

Filing Opens for The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Election

Positions Available

Three at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 7, 2023, election, designated as positions 5, 6 and 7. Each position is for a two-year term.

Candidates may file an application to appear on the ballot for one of the designated positions between July 22, 2023, and 5 p.m. on August 21, 2023. The deadline for filing a declaration of a write-in candidacy is 5 p.m. on August 25, 2023. Applications may be (1) mailed to the Township, (2) delivered in person, (3) submitted via facsimile to 281-2103978, 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 also expected to be available for download on the Township’s website during the filing period at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.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 7, 2023)

• 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 22, 2023: First day to file application to appear on ballot for one of the designated positions

• August 21, 2023: Last day to file application to appear on ballot for one of the designated positions (5 p.m.); Last day to order election

• August 25, 2023: Last day to file declaration of write-in candidacy (5 p.m.)

• October 10, 2023: Last day to register to vote

• October 23, 2023: First day of early voting by personal appearance

• November 3, 2023: Last day of early voting by personal appearance

• November 7, 2023: 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 Election Division by telephone at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683) to obtain the most current information.

Be Prepared: Beat the Heat with Watercraft Safety Tips

By Edward Zimmel

When spending time out on the water, a little planning goes a long way. Proper preparation for your time on the Waterway or Lake Woodlands can make the difference between misery and bliss. When you put safety first, the fun will surely follow. Riva Row Boat House offers you the following tips for a great day on the water.

Lakes Edge Boat House

1970 Hughes Landing Blvd.

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-2065

Open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Closed Tuesdays

Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-3965

Open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Closed Wednesdays

Lifejackets and paddles included in all rentals. All watercrafts are $5 for each additional hour when purchased in advance. Late returns will be charged the full rate for additional time.

Check Weather Conditions.

If there is a strong chance of thunderstorms or lightning in the area, rescheduling may be in your best interest. Times of extreme high temperatures also may not be ideal.

Dress Appropriately.

Kayaking is a water sport, so plan on getting wet when you go out on the water. Quickdrying, lightweight fabrics are recommended. Hats, sunscreen and sunglasses can protect you from harmful UV rays.

Wear a Lifejacket.

Lifejackets (or Personal Flotation Devices) are mandatory for all guests of Riva Row Boat House and Lakes Edge Boat House. We have several sizes available and will help choose the best fit for you should you require assistance. Your lifejacket should fit snug and should always be worn while on the water.

Stay Hydrated.

Hydration is exceptionally important, particularly during Texas summers! While on the water, plan on drinking halfto-one liter of water per hour on a normal summer day. Riva Row and Lakes Edge Boat Houses have cold water and sports drinks available for purchase if you forget to bring your own. Alcohol has dehydrating effects and should be avoided.

Know Your Route.

Be sure to plan a route before you head out. Estimate how far you want to go and how long it will take to go there. There is a map of Lake Woodlands on our website, and at each boat house dock, with estimated paddling times to help plan your trip.

Photos by Nathan Torres

Celebrate Fourth of July with a Splash

By Cynthia Roberts

Join The Woodlands Township for its annual Red, Hot and Pool at all 14 community pools on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Each pool will feature a different theme to celebrate the holiday, in addition to activities and refreshments. Remember to purchase a season pass so that you can visit multiple pools and experience all the varying themes. Season passes can be purchased online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun.

We are looking for judges to vote on which pool held the most festive celebration. For more details, email aquatics@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Can’t celebrate with us on Independence Day? Bring your celebrations to our pools for a private rental all summer long! Rentals are available Friday through Sunday at all 14 pools. At select pools, you can add an inflatable to your rental for extra fun. Want to experience our inflatable for free? Attend one of our Pop at the Pool events.

To find out more about Pop at the Pool, upcoming Township Aquatics programs, season passes and punch cards, please email aquatics@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov or call 281-210-3800.

Tips to Prevent Burglary of Motor Vehicles

Burglary of a motor vehicle is one of the most preventable crimes investigated by law enforcement, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Are you doing your part to help prevent someone from taking items from your vehicle? If not, below are some easy steps that you can take to help prevent being the next victim.

Park your vehicle in a locked garage.

If you can’t, be sure to park in a well-lit area. If you are parking in your driveway, consider installing motion sensor lighting to alert you that someone is approaching.

Always remove valuables from your vehicle.

Take items inside or, if you are away from home, hide them in a locked trunk before you park. Try not to ever leave wallets, purses and important documents behind to avoid identity theft issues.

Always lock your vehicle, close your windows and set your vehicle’s alarm.

If your vehicle is unlocked, it makes it easy for the perpetrator to take something quickly. Check that the doors are locked, all the windows are up and that the alarm is set before you walk away from your vehicle.

Take your keys and garage remote.

Avoid giving someone access to your vehicle or home.

If you see something suspicious, report it to law enforcement when you see it happening.

Don’t wait to report it to law enforcement; calling right away gives them the best chance to find the perpetrator and recover stolen property.

• Call 9-1-1, if it’s an emergency.

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

By Kristin Pternitis

Office for suspicious activity in Montgomery County.

• Call 281-376-3472 for Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4 for suspicious activity in the Village of Creekside Park in Harris County.

When you are at a mall, an event or an unfamiliar area, take a photo of your location or parking lot light poll number to help you find your vehicle. You may also use iPhone Maps and enter “Parked Car” or locate an app for Android phones on the Google Play store to help you find your vehicle faster – this may help you from being a crime target, too!

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/neighborhoodservices and follow the Township Neighborhood Services Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ TownshipNeighborhoodWatch.

Sponsored

JULY 03

Star Spangled Salute

Celebrate America at the annual Star-Spangled Salute free concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, which features the Houston Symphony performing a selection of patriotic favorites. The magnitude of the musical moment always seems to lift the fans out of their seats (or off the lawn) and into pure patriotic wonder. The Star-Spangled Salute kicks off Independence Day for all.

JULY 04

South County

Fourth of July Parade

Get a prime viewing spot for the exciting South County Fourth of July Parade. The 1.3-mile parade around The Woodlands Town Center features marching bands, fire engines, clowns, floats and more! The theme this year is “America! Our Classroom for Freedom,” with Parade Grand Marshal Dr. Curtis Null, superintendent of Conroe ISD. For more information, please visit www.4thofjulyparade.org

Fourth of July Parade

JULY 04

Red, Hot & Pool

Each pool will have patriotic decorations, activities and refreshments (while supplies last). The Woodlands Red, Hot & Pool will take place from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. with the Fourth of July activities happening between noon and 4 p.m. Please note, daily fees will apply for residents and nonresidents. Entry is free for season pool pass holders.

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/fourthofjuly for complete information, including parking.

JULY 04

TOWNSHIP PARKS

6 TO 10 P.M.

Red, Hot & Blue Festival

Celebrate freedom in The Woodlands with great food, live entertainment and family fun at multiple locations around The Woodlands! The Township’s Red, Hot & Blue event culminates with one of the largest fireworks displays in the Greater Houston area. Enjoy a variety of activities throughout The Woodlands at Town Green Park, Northshore Park, Waterway Square, Hughes Landing and

Rob Fleming Park. All sites will feature live music beginning at 6 p.m. with bands playing until the Fireworks Extravaganza at approximately 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. Residents are encouraged to sign up for text alerts for important event updates by texting REDHOTBLUE23 to 877-949-3956.

JULY 06

THROUGH AUGUST 10 HUGHES LANDING

Rock the Row

JULY

Rock the Row

the Row features local and regional bands playing a variety of favorites from pop and rock to country. Coolers, picnic baskets, blankets and lawn chairs are permitted. Glass is prohibited. All entertainment is weather-dependent and subject to change.

July 6 Leslie Lugo (Latin/Variety)

July 13 Party On (Variety)

July 20 ........... Tracy Perez Band (Top ‘80s)

July 27 ............................ Carpenter’s Tribute plus Music of the Era (‘70s)

Alden Bridge

Happy Fourth of July from Alden Bridge! The village board will not meet this month but will reconvene in August. 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 want to congratulate our Alden Bridge Village Association Scholarship winners: Kaylee Gail, who will be attending Wheaton College in Massachusetts, studying Environmental Science, along with Abhishek Tripathi, who will be attending Rice University in Houston, studying Biochemistry (Pre-med). Kaylee and Abhishek each received $1,000 scholarships, with one generously sponsored by Kumon for 2023. As we have done in previous years, when funds allow, we will be sponsoring a $1,500 scholarship for an unnamed recipient at the Montgomery County Women’s Center.

Kudos to our May winners of the Yard of the Month Program. Let’s give congratulations to the Hopkins Family

(Paul and Emily) of Hobbit Glen Place. The greenery and all the flowers were in just the right places to make their front yard pop!

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program continues through this summer. Please look around our village for this month’s winner and send your nominations for best front yard in Alden Bridge to abvainfo@gmail.com no later than Wednesday, July 20, 2023, and we’ll award on August 1, 2023. 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 more than 1,000 households, please send your email address to abvainfo@gmail.com. Your email address will never be shared and will be used only to share news of our village. In addition, you can always visit our Facebook page and our website, www.aldenbridge.org, for additional updates.

Stay cool, Alden Bridge!

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Grogan's Mill

At the May meeting, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association celebrated 14 students awarded scholarships from

the village for a total of $25,000! The scholarships were awarded based on the criteria of academic excellence, community service, recommendations from teachers, counselors and employees and financial need. Profits from The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, sponsored by the Grogan’s Mill Village Association, fund the scholarships and other philanthropic programs. Congratulations to all!

Thanks to residents supporting The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Grogan’s Mill Village Association can support scholarships, schools, community programs, the Interfaith Food Pantry and more. We thank you for spending your Saturday mornings with us shopping for produce, honey, meats, beverages, crafts, food and more. The market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. In addition to our regular lineup of vendors, on most Saturdays we have live music and a food truck. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ WoodlandsFarmersMarket to stay up to date with the details.

Residents who want to stay current on what’s happening at the Grogan’s Mill Village Center and in our community are encouraged to subscribe to our newsletter. We publish about twice each month, so we won’t fill up your inbox. Please visit www.grogansmill.org/ news-and-events to sign up. Additional

Scholarship winners are pictured here with Grogan’s Mill Village Association Board Member Neil Gaynor, sixth from left, and Grogan’s Mill Village Association President Aaron Hoffstadter, seventh from left.

Kaylee Gail Abhishek Tripathi

information can also be found on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ GrogansMillVillageAssociation.

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson and Pat Goodpastor

Panther Creek

We hope you were able to join us for our annual Flag Day celebration/picnic/ pool party. Open to all Panther Creek residents, this event has been for many years an opportunity to enjoy Panther Creek not only as a place to live, but even more so, as a community in which to interact with many wonderful neighbors.

The Fourth of July festivities are here again. Several neighborhoods will again hold bicycle parades in the mornings. If you have not yet heard of one in your neighborhood, maybe this is the year for you to start a parade for the kids!

Free live music will fill July with Rock the Row happening Thursday evenings at Hughes Landing, while on Sunday evenings residents bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the bands at Northshore Park.

Are you going to spruce up your place this summer with a new fence, shed or coat of paint? Don’t forget to run it by the Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC) for approval first. They will meet July 13 at 1 p.m. at the Township headquarters. Call 281-210-3973 for details or review the 21 answers to frequently asked questions on the Township website at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/covenants.

Since garage sales and yard sales are not permitted in The Woodlands, your

Panther Creek Village Association has, for many years, held flea markets each year. With the growth of online and other avenues to meet that need, participation has declined while expense has increased. So, The Woodlands Flea Market is being discontinued. Your village board is exploring a new community event for this fall.

Keep watching here and on our Facebook page for more information. You are invited to join us with your comments, questions, and concerns at the monthly meetings held at 6 p.m. the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Submitted

by

Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

It’s a beautiful summer in Sterling Ridge. Join us at Cranebrook Park for our annual Pool Party on July 15, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entry is free along with free snacks and snow cones!

In June, we had a great time at our First Annual Golf Scramble at Player Woods Golf course to raise money for our elementary schools and college scholarships. There’s always something going on here in Sterling Ridge.

We do not have a meeting this month due to the Fourth of July holiday, but we would love for you to join us in August! Anytime you need more information about what’s happening in our village, you can check out our website at www.sterling-ridge.org.

Submitted by Robbye Schwarzkopf

Explore the Outdoors with Backpack Birding

Take the family on an outdoor adventure this summer! Reserve your birding backpack today and create new memories together, just like Isabel and her family did during Spring Break last year.

Using the supplies in her backpack, Isabel drew beautiful pictures of the birds she saw at a local park. Residents, 18 and older, may borrow a backpack for up to one week. To reserve one for your next birding adventure, please call The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park at 281-516-7348.

BACKPACKS INCLUDE:

• Vortex Diamondback HD 8x32 binoculars

• Bird Identification Guides (available in Spanish)

• Local Birding Checklist

• Park and Trail Map

• Folding Chair

• Notebook

Grogan’s Mill Village Association scholarship winners, from left, front row: Audrey Labbe, Gamelo Camiro, Rianna Ramos and Parker Pogue. From left, back row: Sarah Rothe, Brynnah Stowell, Mikenzie Packer, Edmund Bayot, Zach Hall, Payton Pogue, Ana Berlioz Moreno and Andres Espinoza. Not pictured: Liam O’Neill, Jonathan Cassidy

By Megan McNairn

A Summer Checklist to MosquitoProof Your Patio

Beautiful weather beckons us outside this time of year, but nothing is worse than finding a swarm of mosquitoes that drives you back indoors. Take a minute this weekend to check off these five easy steps and make your patio mosquito-free this summer.

✓ Toss the plant saucers. Saucers provide the perfect dark, wet environment for mosquitoes to lay eggs, barely visible to the naked eye. Opt instead for plant stands, pot trivets or pot feet that elevate the container and do a better job of not staining your deck.

✓ Clean the gutters. It doesn’t take many leaves to hold back enough water to breed mosquitoes, without clogging the gutter entirely. Take a quick peek and scoop out any debris. If your downspout ends in a rain barrel, ensure the screens are in good shape to keep out mosquitoes, or keep reading for a simple preventative treatment.

✓ Use good bacteria. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, so whether it’s a bird bath, rain barrel or a French drain, the most effective tool to treat water is with microscopic bacteria known as Bti. Mosquito larvae eat the Bti, it binds to specific receptors in their gut and kills them. Bti is harmless to fish, frogs, birds, butterflies, pets and people and approved by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), which certifies products for use in organic production.

✓ Pull out the floor fan. Overhead fans are nice, but they don’t combat mosquitoes. Use physics to your advantage and set up a large oscillating fan to blow a breeze across your favorite lounger. That gentle breeze is around 10 mph, much more than a mosquito’s top speed of 2 mph.

✓ Guard the perimeter. Containing 99% garlic, Garlic Barrier is used in agriculture to keep insects off crops as an alternative to chemical pesticides. Follow the dilution directions and apply with a pump sprayer to plants and structures around the perimeter of your yard. It lasts about a month but must be reapplied after rain. This can be a great tool to use ahead of a pool party or family barbeque – after you’ve tossed anything holding water first. Learn more by scanning the QR code below with your smartphone.

Still having a problem with mosquitoes? The Woodlands Township Mosquito Surveillance Team is here to help! Email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800 to request a free site assessment. Better yet, host a gathering with your neighbors and we’ll help you fight the bite together.

Mosquito-proof your patio and outdoor spaces this summer to keep your family healthy and safe from mosquito-borne illnesses and annoyances.

Smart Water Meters Drive

Major Reduction In Water Loss

Thanks to newly added smart water meters, Woodlands Water Agency (WWA) has achieved a major accomplishment in water efficiency with a three-fold reduction in the community’s water loss over the past year. Water loss has dropped from 12.3% in 2021 to 3.9% in March 2023. This is significant considering the statewide average for municipal systems is 16.1% according to the Texas Water Development Board

Water loss – the difference between the amount of water that enters the system and the amount of water that is billed to customers – occurs from various factors including routine flushing of lines, firefighting, and other essential tasks. However, leaks and under-registering generated the bulk of the loss, with rates steadily worsening as infrastructure aged.

To address this, in 2020 Woodlands Water began the systematic replacement of all water meters in the community with new digital meters (installation finished in December 2022).

Erich Peterson, General Manager of Woodlands Water notes, “As our old meters aged, like with all aging infrastructure, problems intensified. Leaks became more frequent, and many meters failed to fully capture the water passing through them. Our new digital meters, which are highly accurate and reliable, have reduced water loss dramatically.”

The digital water meters come with added water and money-saving benefits for customers. When the system detects high or unusual water flow in the home or landscape, it automatically alerts the customer via text, email or voicemail. In the past 12 months, over 65,000 leak alerts have been sent to Woodlands Water customers, helping them save money and water and avoid potential damage.

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Are You Prepared for Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season is upon us and continues until November 30, 2023. But no matter the time of year, Mother Nature can throw a variety of emergencies our way. Whether it’s a hurricane, flood, tornado, fire or other emergency, it’s important to be prepared before it happens. If we, as a community, plan and work together, The Woodlands will be more resilient during and after a weatherrelated event.

Why You Should Prepare

During a hurricane or other disaster, you may not have access to electricity, water and ice, medications, food, fuel, cash, internet/TV, and cellular phone connection.

Make A Plan

Take time to reflect on how different emergencies will affect you and your family. The Woodlands is not in an evacuation zone for the Houston region; however, there may be times when you need to leave the area. Decide now what your family will do in various emergency circumstances. If you plan to evacuate, know the evacuation routes and where you can stay. If you have pets, make sure to choose pet-friendly accommodations.

Build A Kit

If you leave, pack a go bag that includes a flashlight, charger, batteries, cash, basic first aid supplies, medications and copies of vital information you may need. If you stay, plan for several days without power. Pack your kit with water and non-perishable food supplies for each person. Include flashlights or lanterns, a first aid kit, plenty of batteries and important documents sealed in a waterproof bag. Important documents might include insurance policy information, financial account information and other important family papers. During a storm or weather emergency, select a safe room in the interior of your home and stay there. Please visit www.Ready.gov to see a more complete list.

Stay Informed

• For information specific to The Woodlands, please listen to K-Star

Country, KVST 99.7 FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.

• Bookmark The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/stayinformed.

• Sign up for alerts at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme.

• Register for Montgomery County 911 Alerts at www.mc911.org.

• For a full list of emergency resources, please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/emergency.

• Bookmark the Harris County Homeland Security and Emergency Management website, www.readyharris.org.

• Bookmark the National Weather Service website, www.weather.gov.

Prepare Your Home

Hurricane winds can be devastating, so preparing your home is a crucial step.

• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to its lowest setting. Open only if necessary.

By Susan Martin

• Bring inside any lawn furniture, planters, barbecue equipment and other items that may become airborne.

• Trim trees, shrubs and any dead limbs.

• Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles.

• Secure gutters to the house.

In the event all communication efforts fail, residents may go to one of The Woodlands’ eight fire stations for the latest updates.

Central 9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

2 9303 Gosling Road

3......................... 1522 Sawdust Road

4 7900 Bay Branch Drive

5 10100 Branch Crossing Drive

6 1100 Windsor Lakes Blvd.

7 26722 Kuykendahl Road

8 11800 Gosling Road

Austin Bank is now

We are the same bank we have always been. Same Austin family ownership. Same commitment to our communities. Our new look simply reflects all the good that’s happening every day in our offices— and out in the community—for you. At more than 120 years strong, when we say we’re with you for good, we mean it.

Don’t Fall Prey to Common Scams

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Unit, shares important information regarding scams. Scams can be attempted via phone, email, text, websites, social media, mail and online ads. There is no “typical” victim. Anyone alive or dead who has a social security number can be a victim. Corporations, financial institutions and small businesses can be victimized and incur damage to their reputations and credibility.

Best Practices to Safeguard Your Information

• Avoid carrying Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) in your wallet.

• Limit the number of credit cards you carry when going out.

• Always check credit card bills and bank statements for suspicious charges or activity.

• Always shred pre-approved credit card applications and credit card checks sent in the mail.

• Always store passwords for credit cards, bank and phone accounts securely; do not use obvious passwords.

• Store PINs in a safe place.

• Secure personal information in a fireproof safe.

• Shred financial and personal documents.

• Request a credit report at least once per year.

• Report fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission, the three major credit reporting agencies, local law enforcement and the businesses where the fraud was committed.

Most Scammers Get Their Information From You.

Here are some ways they get your information and what you can do to stop it.

• Dumpster Diving – Thieves check your trash can for banking and

personal information. Get a cross-cut shredder and shred the information before discarding.

• Computer Equipment – Discarded IT items can provide thieves with your personal information. Properly erase computer equipment before disposing of it.

• Public Records – Public records, available free to the public, can provide some identity information to thieves. Keep thieves from getting your other identifiers.

• Bank Card and Credit Card

Theft – Stealing bank cards, pickpocketing, looking over your shoulder for PINs and using skimmers which copy or transmit your account numbers, all provide easy access. Secure your cards, limit what you take with you, watch for skimmers when scanning your credit cards and prevent people from seeing you enter your PINs or account numbers.

• Hacking – Getting your personal information online. Monitor your credit, check your bills and consider using a reputable monitoring company to monitor your credit.

• Bogus Job Ads – Seeking your family history, background and Social Security information to target your credit information and use it for their own use or for criminal activity. Verify that the company is valid and use caution when applying for jobs found online.

• Social Networks – Thieves can browse social media sites to seek identifiers about you. Limit the personal information that you post online.

• Background Checks – Providing information to a legitimate business who hires employees with a criminal background.

• Phishing/Scam – Pre-texting or sending unsolicited emails with links.

By Cindy Strawn

• Change of Address – Criminals change your address without your knowledge to divert mail.

You can minimize identity theft, but you cannot completely prevent it.

• Sign up for Vacation Watch with your local law enforcement when you will be away from home.

• Join The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch.

• Have your neighbors watch for any suspicious activity and report it to law enforcement when it is happening.

If you take precautions, scams can still happen.

Keep all records for at least five years. You will need a police report. You can file a police report where the scam occurred or with your local law enforcement. A scammer does not have to come face to face with you. If you get scammed, take the following actions:

• Get a copy of the police report.

• Contact the three major credit reporting companies (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion) and have them place a fraud alert on your account. Ask that they send you a “victim’s statement” that you can send to companies stating that you are a victim.

• Notify the credit card companies in writing.

• Close all accounts that were affected. Get new PINs.

• Avoid using easy information for security questions on accounts. Make sure it is personal to you.

• After you’ve had the situation resolved, ask for a letter saying that the situation is closed.

• File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc.gov and click on Identity Theft or call 1-877-IDTHEFT.

Additional Tips

Be extremely cautious on PayPal, Amazon and similar websites.

• Check even small charges on your bills.

• Do not pre-print your driver’s license number on your checks. Only provide it when it is truly needed.

• Do not leave purses, wallets or packages in your car.

• You can help by reporting suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Pay attention that strangers are not picking up delivered packages or tampering with mail. If you notice these activities, report it immediately to law enforcement.

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Information provided by Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Unit.

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

FIREWORKS PROHIBITED in The Woodlands Neighborhoods

The Woodlands Township Fire Department reminds all residents that The Woodlands Covenants strictly prohibit the sale or use of fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands neighborhoods and parks. The Woodlands is situated in a beautiful forest, and with dry weather conditions and so many trees, one errant spark could severely damage our hometown. Do not put your own property and safety, or that of your friends and neighbors, at risk.

The Woodlands An Award-Winning Destination

By Mary Murphy

Between its luxury shopping, natural beauty and well-planned design, The Woodlands is undoubtedly a special place. This is a fact well known by residents and visitors, and now, Texas.

Texas Travel Awards

Earlier this year, The Woodlands received two Texas Travel Awards, one for “Best Shopping District” in Texas and another for “Best Art Festival.” These annual awards shine a spotlight on the most exciting, innovative and inviting places around the state, and the winners represent uniquely Texas places and experiences that should be on every traveler’s itinerary. This year, Market Street was recognized as the “Best Shopping District” on a statewide level and The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival was recognized as the “Best Art Festival” in the Big Market category.

Texas Travel Alliance

Best of Texas Awards

The Woodlands was also honored during the Texas Travel Alliance’s 2023 “Best of Texas” awards. These award winners are chosen by Texas Travel Counselors after they conduct an annual, regional Study Tour to understand

all that Texas has to offer its visitors. During the five-day study tour, they follow a local step-on guide in each destination, where they only have a few hours to explore. In the “Best of Texas” awards, Visit The Woodlands’ Executive Director, Elizabeth Eddins, was recognized as “best step-on guide” for the Study Tour. The Woodlands made such an impression on The Texas Travel Counselors that they also voted it the “Best City/Community” in the Greater Houston Region for the 2023 “Best of Texas” Awards.

Hotel Awards

The Woodlands Waterway Marriott was recently named 2022 “Hotel of the Year” for Marriott International’s Premium and Distinctive Brands. They were chosen to receive this award out of all the Premium and Distinctive Brands worldwide, including brands like Gaylord Hotels, Sheraton, Marriott Vacation Club and Le Méridien.

Another exciting award was recently given to The Embassy Suites by Hilton The Woodlands at Hughes Landing. The high-end hotel won a Hilton Award of Excellence for being ranked in the top 5 percent of Embassy Suites Hotels.

Hermes Creative Awards

The Hermes Creative Awards also recognized Visit The Woodlands’ efforts this year with Gold awards for two innovative marketing efforts: the Influencer Ambassador Program and Fashion Forward Advertising Campaign. As the official destination management organization responsible for promoting The Woodlands as a premier destination for business and leisure travel, Visit The Woodlands continues to raise the bar for bringing The Woodlands into the spotlight as a must-visit Texas destination.

Please scan the QR code above for more exciting news about The Woodlands.

Photo courtesy of Market Street –The Woodlands.

The Woodlands has received numerous accolades this year including Market Street being recognized as the “Best Shopping District” on a statewide level.

3R Recycling Drive-Thru Event

By Megan McNairn

Start saving your lightbulbs, batteries, old eyeglasses and more for the 3R Recycling Drive-Thru Event!

The Woodlands Township celebrates America Recycles Day with a free, one-day collection event at The Woodlands High School on Saturday, November 11, 2023, from 9 a.m. to noon.

In 2022, participants kept more than 13,500 pounds out of the landfill by bringing select items for recycling to the drive-thru event. That’s the weight of an African bull elephant! The Lions Club also received 1,100 pairs of eyeglasses for their Recycled for Sight program.

Please save the following for the 3R Recycling Drive-Thru Event:

• Batteries: Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V only

• Block Styrofoam: No food containers or cups

• Disposable razors and packaging

• Eyeglasses, sunglasses and cases

• Lightbulbs: Burned out incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL) and LED only. Must be intact, not broken. No tube lights over 4 feet.

• Small Electronics: One file box or paper shopping bag per vehicle. Laptops, tablets, cell phones and cords only. No TVs

or monitors. Proof of Woodlands address via Driver’s License or utility bill is required.

• Oral Care Products: Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers

• Plastic Bags and Film: Any plastic film that is clean, dry and stretches.

• Snack and Drink Pouches: Any brand that comes with a straw or lid.

• Textiles: Used clothing, shoes, linens, fabric scrap in any condition

Please note, services are for residents only; no business items accepted. There is no Village Challenge Competition this year.

Please note that document shredding is no longer part of this event. Instead, Township Neighborhood Services will host the National Night Out Shred Day on October 21, 2023, from 8 a.m. to noon, at Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.