May 2023

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

On the Cover

The Woodlands Township celebrates the Number 1 rating of The Woodlands as the best to buy a house in the United States. Pictured here are staff and board members of The Woodlands Township. See more Township Accolades on page 12.

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24

Cover photo by Derrick Bryant

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office

281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 936-442-7797, Non-Emergency, 24 hours

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

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

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

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

TThe Woodlands is Named Best in the United States to Buy a House

he Woodlands Township is proud to share in another #1 rating from Niche.com.

This year, The Woodlands has been named #1 by Niche.com as the Best City in the United States to buy a house, according to its recently released survey of 2023 Best Cities to Buy a House – Niche. The Woodlands is defined as a township but considered a “city” since it has a population greater than 100,000, according to the Niche.com rankings.

The Woodlands placed a solid #3 ranking by Niche.com as Best City to Live in the United States this year and has been in the Top 5 over the past several years.

The Woodlands earned an A+ grade for its public schools, job opportunities and family-friendly environment. Montgomery County ranked second on Niche.com’s list to raise a family and third on the best to live.

“Achieving these rankings is a true credit to the collaborative efforts of our residents, businesses and governmental entities to create, maintain, and excel as a very special place to live,”

– Township Chairman Dr. Ann K. Snyder

The Woodlands remains one of the most desirable places to live as it offers residents affordable suburban housing, beautiful scenery, award-wining amenities, employment opportunities, outstanding schools, and so much more, according to the review by Niche.com.

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

www.championsprinting.com

KEEP YOU MOVING

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The Woodlands

Conroe

Kingwood

Earth Day in The Woodlands

By Megan McNairn

May 13, 2023, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Northshore Park

Free Event. All ages welcome.

Enjoy live entertainment, games, face painting and meet local organizations that celebrate Earth Day, every day. Visit interactive displays featuring local wildlife, protecting our waterways, recycling right and much more!

Earth Day is coordinated by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with support from Waste Management and The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

For more information, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov or call 281-210-3800. For the most up to date information, please follow The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

By Liz Aguirre

Enjoylive music by local and regional performers in the picturesque setting of Waterway Square at Waterway Nights. These free, family-friendly outdoor concerts make for an eventful night out in The Woodlands Town Center. Concerts are held on Saturday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and coolers (glass is prohibited). Produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department.

MAY 20 Donovan Keith (Soul/R&B)

MAY 27 .... The Breezy Boys (Yacht Rock)

JUNE 3 ...... Mike Donnell (Texas Country)

JUNE 10 ..........................................Time Warp (80s, 90s and Today’s Hits)

JUNE 17 Yelba (Latin/Variety)

JUNE 24 .............Amado J Garcia (Variety)

Memorial Day Weekend in The Woodlands

By Liz Aguirre

Start your summer off right at The Woodlands Township’s annual Memorial Day Event in The Woodlands, Sunday, May 28, 2023, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Town Green Park, located at 2099 Lake Robbins Drive.

This annual event pays tribute to all military service men and women who lost their lives while serving the United States and honors all veterans. Festivities include live music from Rapture. Memorial Day in The Woodlands concludes with a dazzling fireworks display presented by Woodforest National Bank (weather permitting). Concessions will be available for purchase. Vendor opportunities and sponsorships are available. Please contact specialevents@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for details.

A care package drop-off booth will be available onsite to accept donations of recommended items to be shipped to the troops. To see a full list of the recommended items, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/memorialday.

This event is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and sponsored by Woodforest National Bank and Howard Hughes. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/memorialday for more information.

BANDS & BADGES

By Cindy Strawn

Join The Woodlands Township as we honor public safety personnel for their dedication and heroic efforts to make The Woodlands one of the safest communities in the United States. Anew concert series, Bands and Badges, will recognize the commitment and heroism of the following agencies: The Woodlands Fire Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety – DPS, Montgomery Hospital District, Montgomery County Constable’s Office Precinct 3, Harris County Constable’s Office Precinct 4 and many more. These agencies work diligently to ensure the safety and security of residents, visitors and businesses of The Woodlands.

Friday, May 19, 2023, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Lodge at Rob Fleming Park

LEVEL ONE BAND (Funk and Motown)

Saturday, May 20, 2023, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Waterway Square (Waterway Nights)

DONOVAN KEITH (Soul/R&B)

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

Photo by Derrick Bryant

May 5 Houston Ballet

JEWELS

8 p.m. / 7 p.m. Gates

Sponsored by The Wortham Foundation

June 1 Houston Symphony

TOY STORY LIVE IN CONCERT

8 p.m. / 7 p.m. Gates

Sponsored by Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands

June 14 Houston Symphony

SYMPHONIC TRIBUTE TO ELVIS

8 p.m. / 7 p.m. Gates • Scout Day at The Pavilion!

Sponsored by Huntsman

July 3 Houston Symphony

STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE

8 p.m. / 7 p.m. Gates • Free Event!

Sponsored by ExxonMobil

July 20 Houston Symphony

CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE

8 p.m. / 7 p.m. Gates

Sponsored by The Wortham Foundation

FREE Mezzanine & Lawn Seating $25 Reserved Orchestra Seating

September 14 Houston Symphony BLAST OFF TO SPACE!

7:30 p.m. / 6:30 p.m. Gates • Hats Off to Reading!

Sponsored by Insperity

October 20 Houston Symphony

HOCUS POCUS POPS

7:30 p.m. / 6 p.m. Gates

Sponsored by Woodforest National Bank

November 11-12

ANNUAL CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL

Presented by Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands

November 30 CISD Student Musicians

HOLLY JOLLY JINGLE

7 p.m. / 6 p.m. Gates • Free Event!

Sponsored by KPMG

www.woodlandscenter.org

in case you missed it

The Woodlands Township

Proclamations and Recognitions

The Woodlands Township honored The Woodlands High School Lady Highlanders Swim and Dive Teams for winning the prestigious UIL Class 6A State Championship.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors issued a proclamation recognizing April 2023 as Child Abuse Prevention Month in The Woodlands. Members of the Counseling Center of Montgomery County accepted the proclamation.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recognized The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department, for the 12th annual Earth Day GreenUp, held earlier in the spring.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors honored The Woodlands Kiwanis Club for their Special Olympics event.

The Woodlands Township honors the Montgomery County Child Welfare Coalition in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Woodlands Township honors The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department.

The Woodlands Township honors the Kiwanis Club.

The Woodlands Township honors The Woodlands High School Lady Highlanders Swim and Dive Teams.

IT’S POOL SEASON Y’all!

Township community pool season opens for the preseason (weekends only) on May 13, and opens for the daily summer season on May 26. Pool passes are on sale now!

Pool pre-season runs Saturday, May 13, through May 25, 2023. Regular season will kick off on Friday, May 26, 2023, and run through August 8. Private pool rentals are available in the evenings and weekends.

Join the mailing list to receive official newsletters from the Aquatics Department, sent bi-weekly to subscribers. Last year our Pop at the Pool Event made a big splash! Want to know the dates and times early? Sign up for our newsletter and gain exclusive access to this information! Use the QR code below to sign up. Visit the Township Parks and Recreation Action Guide for full listings at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/actionguide and sign up at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Additional fees and registration required.

Resistance Walk: Be one of the first people to experience the newly plastered lazy river when you join our Resistance Walk class! Class will take place at Rob Fleming Aquatic Center May 13 – 27 for session 1.

Scuba: Why should you become PADI certified? After you are certified you will be able to see a whole new world –underwater! Our certification class takes place at Ridgewood Pool and includes an open water setting at the Blue Lagoon in Huntsville, TX.

Family Luau: How about a night out for the entire family? Come out to Cranebrook Pool for a fun game night at the pool. All ages are welcome to attend from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Pizza and dessert provided.

By Cynthia Roberts

2023 Pool Schedule

During the regular season, each pool is closed for one day per week for safety training, cleaning service and scheduled maintenance.

Holidays

All pools open

Memorial Day, May 29: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Independence Day, July 4: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Post-Season pools open

Labor Day, September 5: noon to 6 p.m.

Pre-Season (Weekends - May 13 - 21, 2023)

Alden Bridge, Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Creekwood, Falconwing,

Wendtwoods

Saturday: ...............................................................noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

Pre-Season (Weekdays - May 15 - 25, 2023)

Alden Bridge

Tuesday to Friday: noon to 6 p.m.

Regular Season (May 26 - August 8, 2023)

Alden Bridge, Bear Branch, Cranebrook, Falconwing, Harper ’ s

Wendtwoods* and Windvale

Monday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m. through August 11, 2023.

Creekwood, Forestgate, Lakeside and Shadowbend

Monday to Saturday: noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

Regular Season Weekly In-Service Days (Closed)

Mondays

Tuesdays

Ridgewood, Sawmill and Windvale

Wednesdays

Bear Branch, Falconwing and Wendtwoods

Thursdays

Cranebrook, Creekwood and Harper ’s Landing

Fridays

Lakeside and Shadowbend

Post-Season (Weekdays - August 9 - September 1, 2023)

Ridgewood Pool

Monday to Friday: 1 to 6 p.m. (Closed Tuesdays)

Post-Season (Weekends - August 12September 4, 2023)

Cranebrook, Forestgate, Harper ’s Landing, Lakeside, Ridgewood, Rob

Saturday: noon to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

NEW THIS YEAR: AQUATIC NEWSLETTER

Sign up now for exclusive programs and events.

Township Accolades

The Woodlands has been named #1 by Niche.com as the Best in the United States to buy a house, according to its newly released survey.

• The Woodlands Township earned second place in Category #2 for Populations 100,000 to 300,000 from The National Association of Town Watch for its 2022 National Night Out Campaign. The Township thanks the many team members of the community who contributed to this year’s honor, including the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Harris County Constable’s OfficePrecinct 4, Montgomery County Constable’s OfficePrecinct 3, Texas Department of Public Safety-Highway Patrol, Montgomery County Hospital District-EMS, Alpha & Omega Mounted Patrol and The Woodlands Fire Department.

Residents ranked Township communications, including The Woodlands Community Magazine , the Township website and the Township Facebook page as the number one source to stay informed about the Township, higher than any other local publications, social and digital platforms.

The Township received its highest customer service rankings ever.

Increases in high resident satisfaction in nearly every category.

Most services rated 96% or higher.

• The Woodlands Township was recognized with the 2022 Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture Award for Outstanding Community Forestry Program. The award recognizes individuals, organizations or municipalities that promoted community forestry through a program that significantly engages, educates or enhances the community.

• The Woodlands Township Aquatics Division was named Agency of the Year (Class 1, Population of 75,000+) by the Texas Public Pool Council. The Agency of the Year designation recognizes exceptional efforts in providing aquatics facilities, programs and services to The Woodlands Township.

• The Woodlands Township earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award and the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).

• Texas TreeVentures was awarded “Innovative Program of the Year” from the Texas Recreation and Parks Society (TRAPS) East Region.

• The Woodlands was selected as one of ‘The Best Suburban Neighborhoods You Should Totally Move To’ by Thrillist.com.

• The Woodlands placed a solid #3 ranking by Niche.com as Best City to Live in the United States this year and has been in the Top 5 over the past several years.

• The Woodlands is defined as a township but considered a “city” since it has a population of greater than 100,000, according to the Niche.com rankings.

• The Woodlands earned an A+ grade for its public schools, job opportunities and family-friendly environment. Montgomery County ranked second on Niche.com’s list to raise a family and third on the best to live.

• Visit The Woodlands received a Gold and Platinum AVA Award, as well as two honorable mentions, in the 16th Annual AVA Digital Awards Competition.

• Every two years, The Woodlands Township contracts an independent survey company to survey residents about how they feel about Township programs and services. The surveyor noted that the Township’s results were some of the highest, if not the highest, their research department had ever seen in 37 years of work. The 2022 Resident Survey showed the following:

May Is National Bike Month

By Lacin Coetzee and Patricia Monticello Kievlan, Bike The Woodlands Coalition

May is National Bike Month and to celebrate, The Woodlands Township, with support from Bike The Woodlands Coalition, has events planned for all interests, ages and skill levels.

Bike to Work Day

Do you live and work in The Woodlands or nearby communities? Perhaps you have considered riding your bike to work occasionally. Or even better, you may be one of our growing community of bike commuters in The Woodlands. This event is designed to encourage regular car commuters to try out their bikes as an option for commuting to and from work. Refreshments and information about bike commuting will be provided at Northshore Park. Veteran bike commuters will be on hand to answer your questions about required gear, how to deal with weather, best routes, traffic concerns, etc. Come by between 6:30 and 9 a.m. on Friday, May 19, 2023, and be a part of North America National Bike to Work Day!

Get involved – Host an official energizing station. Help encourage folks to use active transportation on Bike to Work Day by offering free or discounted items from your business to people who bike to work on Friday, May 19. Encourage your employees. Promote Bike to Work Day to your staff. Prepare your work spaces and ensure adequate bicycle parking is designated and available. Take photos and tag The Woodlands Township and Bike The Woodlands Coalition on social media!

Form a Bike to Work Day group. Awards will be given to the most spirited group and the group with the largest participation. Awards will be distributed at Bike The Woodlands Day!

Visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/bicycling to register your Bike to

Work Day group or business as an official energizing station and for complete details on creating a Bike to Work friendly environment for your employees.

Bike The Woodlands Day

Bike The Woodlands will serve as the highlight of the month-long activities that celebrate Bike Month in The Woodlands. The event is intended to promote bike safety, maintenance, rider awareness and cultivate a bikefriendly community in The Woodlands, featuring multiple activities from children’s activities to live music, food trucks, a children’s bike rodeo, safety demonstrations and more. The event will take place on Saturday, May 20, 2023, from 9 a.m. to noon at Northshore Park. Event attendees are encouraged to ride their bikes to this event.

Photos by Mike Pilkenton

National Travel and Tourism Week: May 7 - 13, 2023

Each May, the tourism industry comes together to celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. How does tourism impact our community? Nearly 3,000 jobs are supported by tourism, and over half of The Woodlands Township budget consists of hotel and sales tax revenue. Travel matters in The Woodlands.

Scan the QR Code to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week, and discover how you can celebrate the incredible efforts of our local tourism and hospitality community at an upcoming event with Visit The Woodlands this May.

Photo Provided by Visit The Woodlands

Testing the Waters: A Look at Water Quality in The Woodlands

A Message from Woodlands Water

Quality water is vital to our quality of life – something we should never take for granted. Read on for answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our water quality.

Where does our drinking water come from?

Woodlands Water Agency purchases our water from the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA), our wholesale water provider. SJRA currently sources half of our drinking water from groundwater wells and half from surface water from the Groundwater Reduction Plan (GRP) Surface Water Plant on Lake Conroe. Using surface water helps control subsidence.

How do I know that my tap water is safe to drink?

To ensure our drinking water continually meets or exceeds all federal and state standards, Woodlands Water and SJRA administer over 300 tests per month. In addition, SJRA treatment facilities continuously monitor chlorine disinfection, pH and temperature to ensure that our water is safe to drink. All Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs) served by Woodlands Water are rated as “superior water systems” by the state.

What affects the odor or taste of my tap water?

Water, the “universal solvent,” can adopt taste and odor from naturally occurring elements such as calcium, sodium, and iron, and even the air (just as a jug of water in your refrigerator will absorb food odors over time). A “stale” taste or odor can develop when water sits unused in pipes and in-house plumbing for extended periods. Maintaining proper disinfection in the distribution system is also key to odor and taste control. Woodlands Water staff focus on this as well as the operation and maintenance of the distribution system to ensure we maintain our superior water system rating.

How does Woodlands Water communicate with you about your water quality?

Contact Woodlands Water at 855-H2O-SAVE or information@woodlandswater.org.

Each July, Woodlands Water mails a Drinking Water Quality Report to every customer and posts it online at www.woodlandswater.org. Reports, which are specific to individual MUDs, provide a list and description of regulated contaminants, potential health effects from these contaminants, and contaminant levels compared to national standards.

How to Build a Drip System

By Megan McNairn

The advantages of drip irrigation are many, and installation is easier than you may think. If you are a DIY type who likes to save money, come learn the “nuts and bolts” of installing these simple and effective systems. Even if you choose to hire a contractor, you will feel more in control knowing the basics of the process. As a bonus, participants will also hear about the value of rain barrels for garden irrigation and have the option to purchase one. For further information, or to register, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

FREE WORKSHOP Registration is required.

Saturday, May 20, 2023

8:30 to 11 a.m.

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center

16135 I-45 South (One mile north of Hwy 242, on the Northbound Feeder of I-45)

The Woodlands Township is in the process of creating a transit plan that will provide a framework to increase ridership, reduce travel times and right-size service to better meet the needs of residents and visitors.

This study will evaluate ways to improve transit service across fixed route/ADA paratransit and commuter bus, improve driver retention and evaluate the potential of expanding service across different geographies and users. This process will provide a targeted and comprehensive response to inform improvement priorities, as well as provide a framework for funding and implementation specific for The Woodlands Township and surrounding area.

Alden Bridge

May greetings from Alden Bridge! We hope everyone is doing well and enjoying this spring season. Our next monthly meeting is planned for Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 7 p.m. If you are interested in attending our meetings, especially if you have a public comment or concern, please send us an e-mail at abvainfo@gmail.com.

Many thanks to all students who submitted applications for our scholarships. We plan on honoring the recipients of our 2023 scholarships at a reception before our meeting this month. There were so many outstanding applicants this year that the selection process was extremely difficult. Please check our website and Facebook pages for more details on the winners.

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program is in full swing. We will be looking for nominations from all of you, so look around your area and send us the address of any yard that you think could be the best in the village. Send your nominations to abvainfo@ gmail.com no later than Friday evening, May 19, 2023. In addition to being recognized with a yard sign, the winning homeowner will receive some surprise gifts. And there’s no rule against nominating your own yard, so if you’ve been working hard on it – go ahead, nominate yourself!

Did you know that Alden Bridge has a monthly email newsletter? It’s a convenient way to keep up on what’s going on in Alden Bridge, and it’s easy to get on the mailing list. Just send your email address to abvainfo@gmail. com. Your address will not be shared and will be used only to deliver news of our village to your computer. Between newsletters, please check our website, www.aldenbridge.org, or participate on our active Facebook page (Alden Bridge Village Association).

We hope you enjoy this coming Memorial Day and have a safe holiday weekend.

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Cochran’s Crossing

Greetings from College Park! Hope your month of May is bringing you sunshine and activities that keep you smiling. Our annual College Park Poolooza will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on May 20, 2023. We hope to see you there! It’s the first day the Harper’s Landing pool will be open to the public. Lifeguards will be on duty and food and drink will be served at the pavilion. Come and visit your neighbors and enjoy a great day.

Be careful of your surroundings when out and about. Our traffic has increased immensely and impatience causes stress.

Happy summer and watch our College Park Facebook page to keep up with activities around The Woodlands.

Submitted by Johanne Stanley

Panther Creek

May is here! It’s the month when most days top out in the balmy mid 80s. These are ideal days to enjoy getting out into The Woodlands.

Join us on Saturday, May 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Northshore Park for a family fun day of Earth Day exhibits, games, and environmental information. You are also invited to come to our annual Flag Day Picnic and Pool Party at Ridgewood Park on Interfaith Way June 17.

We will also celebrate National Bike Month. Families are invited to ride around at Northshore Park Saturday May 20. Join a kids’ bike rodeo, learn about bike safety and maintenance and more while enjoying music and food from 9 a.m. to noon.

Your Panther Creek Village Association unanimously elected a new president. Mindy Reynolds has been serving on the board for five years and brings many new ideas as she leads our team of new and experienced board members to serve you and the entire Panther Creek community. Mindy grew up here attending McCullough High School before moving over to be a member of the first graduating class at the new Woodlands High School. Mindy

and her husband Chris are raising their son, Jake, who at 15, plays football, and their daughter, June, who also is into sports and theater. Mindy’s Woodlands roots run deep as her grandfather moved here in the 1970s.

Whether you come to our monthly meetings to more fully be a part of this “Real Hometown” or to investigate becoming a board member, you will be welcomed at our monthly board meeting held at The Woodlands Township the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Mark your calendar now and sign up for our newsletter. Visit us online at PantherCreekVillage.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

Sterling Ridge

April Showers bring May Flowers and May happenings in Sterling Ridge! This month at our May 4 meeting, we will present our scholarships to graduating seniors who live in Sterling Ridge. Scholarships are awarded based on community service, academic grades, and the student’s submitted essay. We give a big thanks to our BBQ sponsors in October. It’s wonderful they supported our kids so much.

Coming in June, we will host the 1st Annual Sterling Ridge Village Golf Scramble at The Woodlands Country Club, Gary Player Course, on Wednesday, June 4, 2023. For sign-up and more information, go to http://www.sterlingridge.org/sponsor-golf. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. and shotgun starts at 9:30 a.m. All proceeds will benefit our Sterling Ridge Village Elementary Schools and Sterling Ridge Village Association High School Scholarship Fund. Please, plan to come out and enjoy the fun!

Visit us online at www.sterlingridge.org and sign up for our monthly newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Our residents are always invited to attend our meetings. The next meeting is on May 4, 2023, at 7 p.m. at the REMAX office located in front of Kroger at 6620 Woodlands Pkwy.

Submitted by Robbye Schwarzkopf

CELEBRATE THE ARTS AT THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION

Summer Days Drifting Away at the Boat House

School’s out, sun’s up and summer break has officially begun in Texas. Well, maybe not quite, but we’re getting there! Now is the time for your favorite warm weather recreational activities or to try something new. The Woodlands Township is a destination unto itself for all your recreation needs. There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than a cool cruise on Lake Woodlands.

Beginning May 10, 2023, the Riva Row and Lakes Edge Boat Houses will be open extra hours throughout the summer. Between our two primary locations, we are your destination for watercraft adventures seven days a week. The Riva Row Boat House is closed on Wednesdays only while the Lakes Edge Boat House is closed on Tuesdays only. Anyone looking to spend some time out on the lake is encouraged to dress accordingly, wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water to keep hydrated.

Please remember, for the safety and security of all guests, alcoholic beverages are prohibited on our watercraft. All participants must have a liability waiver completed before they are allowed to depart. Please respect our waterways and the natural habitats they support by refraining from littering. For more

information, call 281.210.3965 or email boathouse@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Rental Options

The Woodlands Township Boat Houses have a combined fleet of over 70 watercraft consisting of eight unique varieties. Our primary location, the Riva Row Boat House, houses single and tandem kayaks, single and tandem pedal kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, elliptical stand-up paddleboards, Hydrobikes and swan pedal boats. Our Lakes Edge Boat House location houses single and tandem kayaks as well as Hydrobikes and standup paddleboards. Prices range from $20 to $35 for the first hour. Additional hours are discounted when booked in advance.

Make a Reservation

Reservations are not required but are always strongly encouraged. Walkups can be accommodated on a firstcome, first-serve basis as availability allows. During high-volume occasions, such as weekends, boats will often sell out. Please plan accordingly by booking in advance and completing your waiver prior to arriving at the boat house. Reservations can be made at www.rivarowboathouse.com. Payment is required at the time of booking.

By Edward Zimmel

Riva Row Boat House

2101 Riva Row

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-3965

First Boats Out at 9 a.m.*

Last Boats Out at 7 p.m.*

CLOSED on Wednesdays

Lakes Edge Boat House

1970 Hughes Landing Blvd.

The Woodlands, TX 77380

281-210-2065

First Boats Out at 9 a.m.*

Last Boats Out at 7 p.m.*

CLOSED on Tuesdays

*All above hours are from May 10 to August 10.

Photos by Edward Zimmel

Summer at Sunny Dayz Camp!

Looking for an adventure this summer? Want to make new friends, enjoy playing games and learning new skills? Then Sunny Dayz is the camp for you! Join us for field trips, STEM activities, special guests and trips to the pool. One camp, two locations with three age groups – Explorers Group: 6 to 8 years old (must turn 6 by September 1, 2023), Adventurers Group: 9 to 12 years old, and Teen Camp Group: (Rob Fleming ONLY) 13 to 15 years old. Visit www.sunnydayzcamp.com to register or scan the QR code above. Use your online account to edit dates, provide our counselors notes for each camper, add a Chick-Fil-A lunch (on select days), sign field trip permission forms and more! Campers can register for one day, five days or anywhere in between. Sign up today to secure your spot. For questions, please email a camp director at sunnydayzcamp@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or a recreation center at the numbers listed.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

May 30 to August 8, 2023

Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

May 30 to August 11, 2023

Monday to Friday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Full Week ..................... $200

4 Days .............................. $180

3 Days .............................. $150

2 Days ............................... $110

1 Day .................................. $60

Above pricing per camper. Convenience fees may apply.

A beautiful landscape starts with healthy trees, shrubs and lawn.

• Tree and Shrub Pruning

• Tree Removals/Cabling and Bracing

• Stump Grinding

• Insect, Mite and Disease Treatments

• Custom Blend Fertilization

• Tree Planting and Mulch

Scan here to schedule a complimentary consultation:

Trash & Recycling Service

Memorial Day Reminder

There will be no interruption of trash, recycling or yard waste service for the Memorial Day holiday week.

The Woodlands Township Recycling Center at 5204 Research Forest Drive will maintain normal operating hours: Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Montgomery County Precinct 3 Residential Recycling Center will be closed on Monday in observance of the holiday. To keep The Woodlands recycling program going strong, please do not bag recyclables. Place items loose into your cart and recycle clean plastic bags at the grocery store. Holidays can mean extra visitors - please be sure Waste Management trucks can access yours and your neighbors’ carts by parking off the street on your service day.

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,

FIRED-UP TOURS 2023

at The Woodlands Fire Department

By Kristin Pternitis

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department invites you to celebrate public safety partnerships as you stop, drop and roll into your local fire station for a fired-up tour! You will learn more about upcoming National Night Out events, get an up-close look at fire apparatus, rescue units and the fire station where it all happens. Children can meet firefighters and learn about fire safety.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Unit or Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4, will join in on the fun as well. Kids of all ages can visit with deputies and see a patrol vehicle. Program Specialists from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services will also be there to share information about bringing the Neighborhood Watch program to your neighborhood, information on identity theft and scams prevention and how residents can participate in National Night Out.

The Woodlands Fire Department Celebrates Promotions

The Woodlands Fire Department recently celebrated nine firefighter promotions at a badging ceremony. Firefighters and their families attended the ceremony held at Central Fire Station. Pictured left to right, Fire Chief Palmer Buck, Lieutenant Jason Enyart, Lieutenant Tyler Knutson, Driver/Operator Rocky Maglio, Driver/Operator Brandon Pounds, Driver/Operator Anibal Torres, Driver/Operator Christian Parsons, Driver/Operator Jared Kriese, Lieutenant Justin Hill and Driver/Operator Jonathan Tatum. Photos by Perry Frank

Make your comeback stronger than your setback.

If you’re dealing with a back, spine, or orthopedic issue, you understand how not feeling your best can a ect your daily life. Our team at St. Luke’s Health is here to help you get back to the activities you love and we have the expertise to help you come back stronger and stronger.

Don’t just watch from the sidelines. Enjoy everything life has to o er.

What will your comeback story be? Get started at StLukesHealth.org/Ortho