May 2011

Memorial hermann ironman Texas cB&i TRi-The woodlands

The woodlands Township Board of directors election

The woodlands neighborhood pools

The woodlands history: Town Center Emerges

From Vision to Reality

6

8

10

12

14

20 Please Do Not Feed the Ducks

21 It’s time to think about Hurricane season

22

24 spring Bark 2011

25 summer employment

26 Montgomery County sheriff’s Office academy

26 Local Crime Information

27 the Woodlands Community emergency response team (Cert)

28 arts in the Park

30 13 Pools in 30 Days

32 Mosquitoes...ready or not here they come!

On the cover

3 Message from the Chairman

16 Calendar of events

17 Holiday Garbage Collection schedule

18 the Woodlands Village News

the Woodlands will be the setting for two triathlons this month as triathletes from around the world converge here for the eighth annual CB&I trI – the Woodlands and the inaugural Memorial Hermann Ironman texas. see pages 6 and 8 for more information, including maps of race routes and spectator zones. In this cover photo by ted Washington, former KHOu Houston news anchor Chau Nguyen participates in a previous CB&I-trI in the Woodlands.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

The Woodlands ToWnship

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

Board chambers

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

service center

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

law enforcement and neighborhood services Annex 2202 Timberloch Place, Suite 222, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-210-3800

The woodlands fire department (non-emergency)

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-367-3444

parks, Recreation and environmental services 8203 Millennium Forest, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3900

Recreation center

5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

convention & Visitors Bureau

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600, The Woodlands, Texas 77380 281-363-2447

oTher service providers

The woodlands Joint powers Agency (Water) 281-367-1271

Montgomery county sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500 • 936-442-7797

harris county sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery county constable, precinct 3 281-364-4211

harris county constable, precinct 4 281-376-3472 emergency 911

M e SSAG e F R o M tHe cH A i RMA n

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

spring

is a great time to be an athlete in the Woodlands! this month, the Woodlands plays host for both the eighth annual CB&I trI – the Woodlands triathlon on May 7, 2011, and the inaugural Memorial Hermann Ironman texas event on May 21, 2011. this event will bring nationwide attention to the Woodlands, along with about 2,500 athletes from nearly all 50 states and more than 25 countries for a 140.6-mile triathlon.

Bruce Tough Chairman of the Board

The Woodlands Township

For those who aren’t athletes, volunteering is a great way to get involved. about 3,000 volunteers are needed to ensure a safe and fun event. Visit http://ironmantexas.com/ volunteer/ for more information.

spring also brings about the opening of 13 spectacular pools and the offering of many activities, including the 13 Pools in 30 Days program. the revamped program now incorporates a scavenger hunt for participants to follow and take photos of clues to all 13 pools within the first 30 days the pools are open. the jam-packed summer action Guide is contained in this issue, so if you’ve ever thought about aqua Zumba, ballroom dancing or going on a family night hike, it’s all available in this guide. Be sure to check out all the great kids activities offered at the summer camps, including sunny Dayz, Panga surf, Lego® Mania and Fashion Designer, just to name a few.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the Memorial Day Weekend Celebration set for saturday, May 28, 2011, and sunday, May 29, 2011, from 6 to 9 p.m., at Waterway square. It will be two nights of live music and fireworks. Picnics, chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome.

there are always great things happening in the Woodlands!

Bo AR d oF d i R ecto RS

The Woodlands

c OMMUni T Y MAgAzine

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.

chAM p iOns sTA ff president, publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account executives

creative director

Connie Krell

Charlotte Blanco

Cheryl Kirsch

Lori Short graphic designers

Jami Davis

Charlene Strine

T O w nshi p sTA ff director of community Relations Nick Wolda editor Mary Connell

copy editors

Elena Smith

Laura Garvey editorial Assistant

Terri Jefferies

Advertising inquiries, rate requests and change of address/delivery inquiries may be directed to:

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

www.championsprinting.com

editorial inquiries may be directed to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859, 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 community and the services provided to them as Woodlands residents.

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

The inaugural Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas, taking place on May 21, 2011, will bring approximately 2,500 athletes representing nearly all 50 states and more than 25 countries to The Woodlands for a 140.6-mile triathlon. The race, part of the global Ironman qualifying series that consists of 23 events around the world, is expected to create an economic impact of $15.9 million through the sale of thousands of hotel room nights, retail shopping, food and beverage dinners and sales.

On race day, participants ranging in age from 18 to 70+ years will have 17 hours to complete a 2.4-mile swim in

Lake Woodlands, 112-mile bike through the rolling farmland of east Texas and 26.2-mile run throughout The Woodlands with a spectacular finish on Market Street. The course was selected to highlight the areas that best showcase the beautiful setting of the community while causing the least impact to residents.

Age group athletes will compete for 65 coveted slots to the Ford Ironman World Championship, which takes place October 8, 2011, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Professional triathletes will vie for a portion of a $100,000 prize purse, one of the highest in the Ironman Global Series,

along with qualifying points to the Ford Ironman World Championship.

Residents of The Woodlands will not only have the chance to see some of the greatest endurance athletes in the world but also to take part in the event through hundreds of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are integral in ensuring a successful, safe and fun event and are vital in helping athletes achieve a significant accomplishment. In an effort to give back to those who support the event, donations totaling $100,000 will be made to a number of local groups in The Woodlands and surrounding areas.

On race day, participants ranging in age from 18 to 70+ years will have 17 hours to complete a 2.4-mile swim in Lake Woodlands, 112-mile bike through the rolling farmland of east Texas and 26.2-mile run throughout The Woodlands with a spectacular finish on Market Street.

asone of the premier multi-sport events in the region, CB&I trI –the Woodlands, scheduled for saturday, May 7, 2011, offers high-caliber competition, first-rate race management and a scenic course. Comprising a 500meter swim course, 15-mile bike course and a five-kilometer run course, the race is a sanctioned usa triathlon event featuring a field of more than 1,000 participants. Last year’s participants ranged from beginners to nationally ranked triathletes.

CB&I has been the event’s title sponsor since the inaugural triathlon in 2004. Luke’s Locker, an official sponsor for all eight years of the event, hosts packet pickup for three days prior to the event. another official seven-year sponsor, Memorial Hermann - the Woodlands, offers

Swim, Bike, Run...Cheer!

participants free clinic appointments at their sports medicine facility in the Woodlands.

the 2010 CB&I trI sold out, and the 2011 event also sold out by mid-March. More than 25 states and three foreign countries have been represented in the

participation field over the last seven years.

If you would like to volunteer or get more information on road closures, spectator cheer zones and more, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, and click races.

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors ELECTION

Saturday, May 14, 2011 - 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

pOsiTiOns

three at-large positions are open in the Woodlands township Board of Directors election scheduled for saturday, May 14, 2011. Ballot positions for candidates who have filed are as follows:

pOsiTiOn 5

• Nelda Luce Blair

pOsiTiOn 6

• James H. stilwell

• Peggy s Hausman

pOsiTiOn 7

• Bruce tough

each office carries a two-year term and all three positions are elected at-large by voters in the Woodlands township in both Montgomery County and Harris County. Voters need to be registered to vote for the Woodlands election.

eARlY VOTing

eARlY VOTing TiMes Montgomery and Harris Counties

Monday, May 2 through saturday, May 7, 2011 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday, May 9 through tuesday, May 10, 2011 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

eARlY VOTing lOcATiOns – MOnTgOMeRY cOUnTY, TX election Central (Limited Ballots, Special Forms of Early Voting and Ballot by Mail only)

9159 airport road, Conroe, texas 77303

south County Community Building

2235 Lake robbins Drive, the Woodlands, texas 77380

North Montgomery County Community Center

600 Gerald street, Willis, texas 77378

east County Courthouse annex

21130 u.s. Highway 59 south, New Caney, texas 77357

West Montgomery County Courthouse annex 19380 Hwy 105 West, Montgomery, texas 77356

eARlY VOTing lOcATiOn – VillAge Of cReeKside pARK, hARRis cOUnTY, TX

south Montgomery yMCa Outdoor adventure Center at Creekside 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, the Woodlands, tX 77389

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

elecTiOn dAY

elecTiOn dAY - pOlling lOcATiOns

Montgomery county

H - Precincts 31, 56, 59, 69, 70, 75

Windsor Hills Homeowner’s association Clubhouse

One Windsor Hills Circle, the Woodlands

I - Precincts 33, 48, 49, 58, 62

south County Community Building

2235 Lake robbins Drive, the Woodlands

J - Precincts 3, 71, 78, 81

Buckalew elementary school

4909 W. alden Bridge Drive, the Woodlands

K - Precincts 4, 32, 45, 61, 67, 79

Wilkerson Intermediate school 12312 sawmill road, the Woodlands

M - Precinct 84

south Montgomery County Fire station #1

335 Volunteer Lane at Budde road, spring

village of creekside park, harris county Creekside Forest elementary school 5949 Creekside Forest Drive, the Woodlands

Receive a $ 2,000 MasterCard plus valuable builders’ incentives when you purchase a new home in May Valley May 1 – 31, 2011 and close by July 31, 2011. Terms and conditions apply.*

What do you want to do today?

Don’t waste a single moment!

Everything you need is just minutes away in The Woodlands. From a morning workout at the YMCA to a romantic dinner on The Woodlands Waterway ® , you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Texas’ most celebrated community.

NEW HOMES IN MAY VALLEY PRICED FROM THE $180’s - $550’s

Discover May Valley in The Woodlands’ Village of Sterling Ridge. This beautiful neighborhood highlights homes by a variety of popular homebuilders including D.R. Horton, Highland, Lennar, Partners in Building, Trendmaker and Village Builders, priced from the $180’s to the $550’s. A cluster of neighborhoods surround nine-acre May Valley Park, featuring a pavilion, playgrounds and a natural stream nestled in the forest. Magnolia ISD schools, shopping, dining and more parks are nearby. Everything you need is right here in May Valley!

pRe-seAsOn

pOOl schedUle

pre-season pools open on May 14, 2011.

saturday: Noon to 6 p.m.

sunday: 1 to 6 p.m.

Memorial Day Monday: Noon to 6 p.m. Bear Branch Pool is also open

Monday - Friday: Noon to 6 p.m. (closed Wednesdays)

theWoodlands township is known for its outstanding pools throughout all of its villages. Official pool season opens June 3, 2011, for all 13 pools. However, Lakeside Pool, Bear Branch Pool, Cranebrook Pool, Forestgate Pool, Harper’s Landing Pool, ridgewood Pool, sawmill Pool and rob Fleming aquatic Center will open in special pre-season hours.

additionally, all pools will be open on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, 2011. For a complete listing of pools and hours of operation, including the regular season that begins June 3, and special events, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and click residents, then Pools.

seAsOn pOOl pAsses

It’s easy to purchase a season pass! Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or stop by the Woodlands township recreation Center at 5310 research Forest Drive, 281-210-3950. season passes are non-refundable and non-transferable. season passes are good May 14, through september 25, 2011.

resident season pass

0 -

3

0

dAilY AdMissiOn

pUnch cARds

resident Punch Card (6 visits) $30

All pools except Rob Fleming

resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits) $40

Non-resident Punch Card

Rob

THE CYNTHIA WOODS MITCHELL PAVILION

Friday, May 20

Houston Symphony

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

Dvorák’s Cello Concerto

Hans Graf, conductor Alisa Weilerstein, cello

$15 orchestra seating

FREE mezzanine and lawn seating courtesy of The Wortham Foundation

Dvorák’s final concerto is rich in expansive melodies, beautiful lyricism and extraordinary brilliance. Charismatic cellist, Alisa Weilerstein, brings her passionate interpretation to Dvorák’s masterpiece. Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 2 also is part of this classical concert.

Thursday, May 26

Houston Symphony

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

“Let the Good Times Roll”

The Music of Ray Charles

Michael Krajewski, conductor Ellis Hall, special guest

$15 orchestra seating

FREE mezzanine and lawn seating courtesy of Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, UBS Financial Services Inc. and Woodforest National Bank

Special guest, Ellis Hall, performs music from the late, great Ray Charles. A former protégé of Charles, Hall pays tribute to his friend in a concert dedicated to his music and memory with hits like “I Can’t Stop Loving You” and “Hit the Road Jack.”

The Woodlands, The InsIde sTory of CreaTI ng a Be TT er h ome To W n

Town Center Emerges from Vision to Reality

Postponing

gratification is often a wise move in business, if you can do it. When George Mitchell and his team planned the Woodlands they resisted the temptation to develop the 1,200-acre tract of land that fronted on Interstate 45. It had the easiest access to the highway. Conventional suburban planning at the time would have used a good portion of that land for housing. that would have provided the least expensive way to develop. there would be no need for constructing extensive roadways to bring potential residents deep into the Woodlands. the Mitchell team instead reserved that land close to the interstate for a long-range payoff. It would stay vacant until both the Woodlands and the areas north and south of it along the highway would have a sufficient resident base to support commercial development. then the land, dubbed the town Center, would become the major business and urban-style commercial area for southern Montgomery and northern Harris counties.

than 50,000

robert Heinemen, one of the original planners of the Woodlands, said there was no doubt that reserving this choice freeway location for future commercial development would add more long-term value to the community.

town Center was planned to be a regional center of commerce for all of the North Houston region, including its population of one million people who today live within 20 miles of the Woodlands. the Woodlands’ plan sought to avoid the problem of having non-residents drive through residential areas to get to major shopping areas or job locations. so the planning concept was to locate our town Center at the external edge of the Woodlands fronting on Interstate 45. that gave it the best accessibility to the region’s population but also conveniently close to the residential villages of the Woodlands.

By the 1980s, the delay of gratification came to an end. the development of town

Center got underway then and will likely continue for 15 more years from now. eventually, there will be some 18 million square feet of commercial space in town Center, roughly equal to the downtown of Kansas City. that includes the property set aside for office, retail, entertainment, hospitality, health care, urban residential and mixed-use development.

One of the most striking features of town Center today is the Woodlands Waterway®. Over the years, the Waterway went through a series of planning changes, according to Heineman. “that sketch I did on the back of an envelope in ’72 wasn’t the waterway,” he said. “It was the drainage corridor through the middle of town Center.” Later plans depicted a linear park with a series of water features rather than a continuous waterway. “that evolved into a transportation corridor over time because of the availability of federal grant funds for transportation programs,” said Heineman. But the idea of the Waterway was a dream on a map for years.

While the Woodlands Corporation figured out just what to do with the Waterway, the corridor served mainly as a drainage way. “the idea was to take a drainage ditch and turn it into a linear park, which would also serve as a transportation corridor,” said Heineman. “We had to look at transportation as more than just getting from point a to point B because (for that) you can’t beat the car usually. so you have to make it festive and entertaining.”

through the years since 1972, Heineman has been a champion of the evolving Waterway, as was Dick Browne, who headed the Woodlands’ planning department for a number of years. Browne was a more vocal supporter and challenged others to understand its value to the community. Heineman was also very effective in his more subdued,

Original Town center

This diagram “on the back of an envelope” by Robert Heineman in 1972 depicts an early concept of a transit corridor that would serve a multi-use downtown in The Woodlands. The idea of a transit corridor has evolved over the years from a drainage ditch into a linear park/pedestrian and transit corridor, known as “The Woodlands Waterway®.” Heineman, who joined The Woodlands Development team in 1972 had just completed his master’s degree in architecture and urban design at Harvard and had written a graduate paper on public transportation in master planned communities, thus his interest in the subject. Earlier in 1967 as a summer school student, he shared a rental home in Georgetown with Bill Clinton. Heineman continues to serve as vice president of planning for The Woodlands Development Company.

professional approach. It was Heineman who understood and spoke the language of transportation planners within local and federal agencies that reviewed and approved transportation grants. securing federal grants was the key to constructing the Waterway. thus far, about $20 million in grants have been used to build and equip the Waterway.

as we looked around the country for successful examples of waterway development, the san antonio riverwalk stood out. It is the biggest tourist attraction in the state—bigger than the alamo—as irreverent to texans as that might sound.

the firm of Ford, Powell and Carson architects had been a principal planner and advisor to the san antonio riverwalk for many years, so it was obvious their talent could help plan the Waterway in the Woodlands. We did not want to copy what had been done in san antonio. We wanted to understand what made it successful–things such as the width and depth of the water, width and location of sidewalks, height and design of bridges, function and shape of public areas, landscaping, lighting and the correct interface between businesses and the Waterway. Learning from others has great value.

In the late 1990s, construction finally started on the initial one-and-a-half-mile segment of the Waterway, extending from the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on the west to the mall on the east with water cruisers on the Waterway and motorized trolley cars along its adjacent trolley way to move people from one end of town Center to the other. the Waterway itself already provides a pleasing visual element and an important economic development tool for town Center.

From the beginning, the major anchor for town Center was a regional shopping mall. But planning for a mall and actually getting it proved to be a formidable task

made difficult by a major economic downturn in the mid ’80s, long-term commitments by major retail anchors to existing malls to the south of our location and limited direct access to Interstate 45.

We installed a large sign on Interstate 45 proudly pointing out that a new regional mall would soon be built. the sign was repainted every year for a decade. We felt a crisp clean sign was better than an old faded one. It was a joke throughout the county that the biggest item in our budget was paint for the sign. We changed the sign message from time to time, but it was always something about “Coming soon, the regional Mall.”

Finally, we reached a workable joint venture agreement with Homart, the mall development arm of sears, and the Woodlands Mall opened in 1994 with great fanfare and a huge crowd estimated at 50,000 in attendance. as we arrived by car for the mall’s opening event and walked through the crowd, people were actually tugging at George Mitchell’s coat sleeve to get his attention and saying their thanks for bringing the mall to the Woodlands; a promise kept. It was almost a love fest on opening day.

town Center Improvement District was formed by a special act of the state legislature in 1994 (and later renamed the township with a fully-elected board and expanded powers provided by amended legislation) to provide a community governance structure and a coordinated marketing and economic development effort. In 2000, the initial Waterway Plaza office building was completed.

Roger galatas

as the beginning of the 21st century approached, a landmark agreement was negotiated with anadarko Petroleum Company to relocate its corporate headquarters, with some 2,000 jobs, from Greenspoint to the Woodlands. under that agreement, anadarko would acquire a site in town Center and construct its headquarters building here on the condition that the Woodlands Development Company construct or cause the construction of a full-service corporate hotel nearby for business visitors and corporate meetings. the deal was struck and the 30-story anadarko tower, the tallest building between Houston and Dallas, was occupied in 2002. the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center was constructed and opened for business later that year with financial support provided by town Center Improvement District to construct the conference center meeting space and parking garage. tax benefits were granted to anadarko by Montgomery County as an additional incentive to encourage this important corporate relocation. the hotel has also served as an asset to encourage other corporate moves to town Center including Chevron Phillips Chemical Company, u s Oncology, Huntsman Chemical and others.

today, some 47,000 jobs are located in the Woodlands with most located in town Center or its adjacent neighbor, the research Forest. all made possible in part by George Mitchell’s vision, a sketch on the back of an envelope, a lot of hard work by dedicated professionals, significant corporate commitments and support of community residents. With a team like that, the future looks bright!

Roger Galatas is the former president of The Woodlands Corporation and the author, with Jim Barlow, of the popular book, The Woodlands, The Inside Story of Creating a Better Hometown. For more information, please visit www.rgiwoodlands.com.

may

Vividly blue native spiderwort (Tradescantia) also called “widows tears,” has three-petaled blossoms that last only a day, melting into translucent droplets with the sun’s heat.

For calendar updates, visit the calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Tuesday, May 3

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center 6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

wednesday, May 4

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 5:30 p.m. 281-210-3800

Thursday, May 5

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Lone Star College-University Center at Montgomery Advising and Registration Fair 3232 College Park Drive

4 to 7 p.m.

For more information, please call 936-273-7510 or 281-618-7140.

friday, May 6

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

saturday, May 7

Eighth Annual CB&I TRI –

The Woodlands Triathlon Northshore Park

7 a.m.

For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3900.

Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to Noon (rain or shine)

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call Lorraine Richardson at 713-992-5983.

sunday, May 8

Mother’s Day

Tuesday, May 10

Heartsaver CPR Class Emergency Training Center 6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-3887

Thursday, May 12

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive 7:30 p.m. 281-210-5808

saturday, May 14

Community Pools Open for Pre-season

Select pools open weekends only. See page 12 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to Noon (rain or shine)

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call Lorraine Richardson at 713-992-5983.

Spring Bark

Northshore Park

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For sponsor information, please contact Laura at lakoalamac@sbcglobal.net.

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Arts in the Park

Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

3 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3900

Monday, May 16

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6:30 p.m.

281-210-5808

College Park Village Association Meeting

Emergency Training Center, 16135 IH-45 South

7:30 p.m.

281-210-3889

Tuesday, May 17

Healthcare Provider CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

wednesday, May 18

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

5:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, May 19

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Workshop 10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, Suite 600

7:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

friday, May 20

Healthcare Provider Renewal CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 to 11 a.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Gorilla Hole

The Recreation Center

7 p.m.

281-210-3950

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

saturday, May 21

Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas

See page 6 for more information. Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to Noon (rain or shine)

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call Lorraine Richardson at 713-992-5983.

Heartsaver CPR Class

Emergency Training Center

9 a.m. to noon

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

First Aid Class

Emergency Training Center

Noon to 2:30 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Family Luau

Cranebrook Pool, 11800 Cranebrook Drive

6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

281-210-3900

Fee: $39/family of two, $46/ family of three, $55/family of four

Monday, May 23

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting Mitchell Library, 8125 Ashlane Way

7 p.m. 281-210-3888

Tuesday, May 24

Healthcare Provider CPR Class Emergency Training Center

6:30 to 10 p.m.

To register, please call 281-210-5820 ext. 1731.

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

7:30 p.m. 281-210-3887

wednesday, May 25

Watch Talk Wednesday 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

Noon to 1 p.m. 281-210-3800

www.metroministorage.net

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2201 Lake Woodlands Drive

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

saturday, May 28

Farmer’s Market

8 a.m. to Noon (rain or shine)

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place www.grogansmillvillage.com

For more information, please call Lorraine Richardson at 713-992-5983.

Memorial Day Celebration Waterway Square

6 to 9 p.m.

For more information, please call 281-363-2447.

sunday, May 29

Memorial Day Celebration Waterway Square

6 to 9 p.m.

For more information, please call 281-363-2447.

Monday, May 30

Memorial Day

All Township offices will be closed.

*Please visit the calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for listings, or call the office at 281-210-3800.

Holiday Garbage collection Schedule

there will be no waste collection service on Monday, May 30, 2011, in observance of Memorial Day. Everyone’s waste collection will be moved to the day following the regular service day. all services are affected. Please refer to the chart below.

regular collection holiday collection

Monday, May 30 ...............................

Tuesday, May 31

Tuesday, May 31 ............................... Wednesday, June 1

Wednesday, June 1 ........................... Thursday, June 2

Thursday, June 2 ..............................

Friday, June 3

Friday, June 3 saturday, June 4

Normal schedule will resume Monday, June 6, 2011

Alden Bridge

thanks to everyone who helped us put on the alden Bridge spring Festival last month! We always appreciate our volunteers! the next call for volunteers will be to build our village’s float for the big Fourth of July parade in town Center. If you’d like to be part of that effort, just e-mail abinfo@comcast.net.

Our monthly residents’ meeting will be held on tuesday, May 10, 2011, at 7 p.m., at the township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. We’ll honor the winners of our 2011 scholarships, so all residents are encouraged to attend and congratulate these young scholars. Bring us your questions and concerns! your village association is here to help you.

We’ve just awarded the first yard of the Month for 2011, and a winner will be chosen every month through september. Please send your nominations to us at abinfo@comcast.net. In addition to being recognized with a yard sign, each winner receives a variety of surprise gifts. also continue to send your e-mail addresses to us at abinfo@comcast.net so we can e-mail you our monthly electronic newsletter. your address will not be shared and will be used only to disseminate alden Bridge news. Between newsletters, please check our Web site, www.aldenbridge.org.

Submitted by Darla Bell

Cochran’s Crossing

“It’s hard to believe a faithful, fun-loving guy like me could be a public nuisance. But hey, if I’m stuck out in the yard all day I’m probably gonna do some barking. Maybe a lot of barking. It’s not exactly a federal case but it sure bugs the neighbors. I mean why else would they call me a nuisance?”

If this scenario possibly fits your pet’s situation, maybe you should check with the neighbors. ask them. they’ll appreciate the consideration, and if they tell you his bark is worse than his bite you can remedy the situation, eliminate any hard feelings and you, your pooch and the neighbors can all live happily ever after. Oh, and there’s something else, when you’re out enjoying parks and pathways, clean up after your pet. It’s the responsible thing to do.

Submitted by Bill Mara

College Park

May has arrived and with it the promise of a wonderful summer. school is ending and once more the pools will be open for everyone to enjoy. It is also time for our annual spring Fling over at Harper’s Landing Pool and Pavilion. the College Park Village association will be sponsoring the event for all residents of College Park. Come on over to the park to enjoy the cooling waters of Harper’s Landing Pool while chowing down on free hot dogs, chips and cookies. there will be a moonwalk for the kids to enjoy and refreshing drinks for all. the event will be on saturday, May 28, 2011, from noon until 4 p.m., and it is a good chance for you to get together with your neighbors and try the pool for free. We are always looking for volunteers to help out during the event, so please call Gail Carney at 936-271-1241 if you’d like to help out! this summer as the weather warms, be aware that more people are out in the evenings. In order to prevent crimes of opportunity, please keep your car doors locked and valuables stowed out of sight. I also sometimes take a stroll in the evenings and have noticed that many people leave their garage doors open at night. this is a great temptation to check out your stuff while you are asleep, so please remember to keep your garage doors closed. each month during our meetings, we have a report of crime in the area and crimes of

opportunity are the highest percentage of crimes in College Park.

Our regularly scheduled meeting will be on Monday, May 16, 2011, at 7:30 p.m. at the emergency training Center. We welcome residents to attend and will be ready to address their questions and concerns.

Submitted by Gail Carney

Grogan’s Mill

the Farmer’s Market returned on april 2, 2011, and will remain open every saturday from 8 a.m. to noon until the end of June. the Market is located in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center parking lot off Grogan’s Mill road and south Millbend. We encourage everyone in the Woodlands to support the farmers and vendors who bring fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, meats, breads, cheeses, honey and other locally grown and produced items. On april 16, 2011, the market expanded with the addition of the annual Grogan’s Mill arts & Crafts Fair at the same location.

the Grogan’s Mill Village association held its annual planning meeting in March to prepare a budget and list of activities for the 2011 fiscal year. Officers were also elected and improvements to the Grogan’s Mill Web site at www.grogansmillvillage.com were discussed.

the board noted many accomplishments in the past year. In addition to the Farmer’s Market, the Grogan’s Mill Village association supported the community-wide spring and Fall Flea Markets, Fourth of July Parade, Community Involvement/Good Neighbor Days, selected recipients for yard of the Month from april through October and recognized our holiday lighting and decorating contest winners. the Grogan’s Mill Village association also issued biweekly e-newsletters, awarded a total of $4,000 in grants to our four area schools and held a celebration in honor of the

e Vent S in YOU R nei G H B o R Hood

official opening of the dog park at tamarac Park on North Millbend.

the Grogan’s Mill Village association board encourages everyone to attend its monthly meetings at the township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive, held the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Submitted by Bob Leilich

Indian Springs

Fourth of July, 2010 parade Banner

In 2010, Indian springs Village association sponsored a float for the south County Fourth of July Parade. the float, designed by Board Member richard stromatt, used a large banner with a photo of the statue of Liberty proudly displayed and won first place. recently, richard was able to donate the banners to Galatas elementary Principal Marlene Lindsay, Ms. amy Kelley and students from her third grade class enthusiastically accepted the banners on behalf of the school. the banners were used as part of an exhibit honoring Lady Liberty and her place in american history.

new Board Members

Indian springs Village association would like to congratulate amy Lecocq on her recent election as president. amy has served the Indian springs board and the Woodlands community in numerous volunteer activities and we look forward to her future leadership. We would also like to welcome our newly elected area representatives, terry reiszner, Veronica

Williams and Jim Merritt, along with our re-elected board members, secretary Kelly sharer and area representatives Ken schumann and erika Bondy Pratt. all residents are invited to attend our village association meetings held at 7 p.m., the second tuesday of every month, in the Woodlands township service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please visit our Web site, www.indianspringsvillage.com, for more information regarding Indian springs.

Submitted by Carolyn Dalglish

Sterling Ridge

During the coming months we will be looking for the “Yard of the Month.” Winners will receive a sign for their home, a gift certificate from one of our local businesses and a photo and acknowledgment on our village Web site! Please send the address and contact information to srevents@sterling-ridge.org if you would like to nominate any resident of sterling ridge. Note: Photographs are not required as the property will be viewed by board members.

upcoming events are posted on our Web site and are included in our newsletter. to sign up for the newsletter, e-mail srva_information@sterling-ridge.org. Meetings are customarily scheduled for the fourth Monday of each month at the Mitchell Library. We invite you to visit our Web site, www.sterling-ridge.org, to verify dates, times and locations of meetings.

Submitted by Kerri Steen-Chew

ALden B R id G e

The Alden Bridge Village Association (ABVA) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! web site www.aldenbridge.org

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Steve Leakey at 281-419-3468.

c ocH RA n’ S cR o SS in G

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! web site www.cochranscrossing.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Nancy Becker at 936-321-4264.

c oLLe G e PAR K

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

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Ted Stanley at 936-321-5996.

cR eeK S ide PAR K

The Woodlands Creekside Park Village Association (TWCPVA) usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Creekside YMCA, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Please join us! web site www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3889.

G R o GA n’ S MiLL

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

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Deborah Sargeant at 281-292-5341.

i ndi A n S PR in GS

The Indian Springs Village Association (ISVA) meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township Service Center, 2201 Lake Woodlands Drive. Please join us! web site www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Amy Lecocq at 281-298-1476.

PA ntHe R cR eeK

2011 indian springs

Village

Association Board

Front Row: Treasurer Oscar Lui, Vice President Carolyn Dalglish, President Amy Lecocq, Secretary Kelly Sharer, Back Row: Village Liaison Susan Golden, ISVA Reps Richard Stromatt, Erika Bondy Pratt, Veronica Williams, Michael Luman, Jim Merritt, Jose Valladeres, Eric Thomas, Shanna Davis, Terry Reiszner and Ken Schumann.

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

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Everett Ison at 281-298-9524.

Ste R Lin G Rid G e

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

Questions? Call your village liaison at 281-210-3888 or Village Association President Phillip Givens at 281-419-9331.

although it may be tempting to share a bite from a picnic lunch with our “feathered friends,” feeding ducks is more likely to harm them than it is to help them. Feeding ducks can have serious consequences, including overpopulation, spreading disease, disturbing migratory patterns and altering activity patterns, such as foraging behavior.

Human food is different from what ducks naturally eat and has less nutritional value for them. Filling up on human food also deters ducks from eating their natural food sources and receiving the nutrients they need for health and development. Many types of food, including chunks of bread, can be choking hazards for waterfowl. Bread thrown into water, if not eaten by a duck, begins to rot and adversely impacts the quality of the water and promotes bacterial infection in water-life. When humans are not around, ducks may confuse food packaging with the food source, damaging their digestive systems. even feeding duck feed to wild waterfowl is harmful because it alters the ducks’ natural foraging patterns and decreases the ducks’ fear of humans.

When ducks become dependent on humans for food, they lose their fear of humans, and will begin approaching humans for food. Feeding ducks reinforces aggressive behavior, which can lead to property damage and be a danger to children. Ducks have been known to snap at pond visitors in their attempts to get food. In their search for a handout, ducks may also wander into roadways where they can be injured or killed by oncoming traffic. Plus, ducks need their instinctive fear of humans or they become easy targets for people who do not respect wildlife and wish to harm them.

Please remember that the lakes and ponds were intended to be a natural environment to attract wild migratory birds.

enjoy watching the wild ducks that make their home here, and teach your children to respect and enjoy nature.

it’s time to think about

HURRICANE SEASON

Next month is the beginning of the fivemonth hurricane season. the Woodlands township Board of Directors urges everyone to plan what you and your family should do if disaster strikes our area. thinking about it now will help you decide what to do later.

For emergency information specific to the Woodlands, listen to K-star Country, KVst 99.7 FM, official emergency broadcast partner of the Woodlands township.

• Fully redundant power

• Locally owned and operated

• North Houston and Conroe coverage area

• Local news, weather and traffic emergency supply Kits

Listen live daily at 99.7 FM or online at kstarcountry.com.

recommended basic emergency supply kits should include:

• One gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

• at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic and atmospheric administration (NOaa) weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help.

• Filter mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air.

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

• Manual can opener and utensils if kit contains canned food.

• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

• Important family documents.

• Items for unique family needs, such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers.

For more information about emergency preparedness, call the Woodlands township at 281-210-3800 or visit the Homeland security Web site at www.ready.gov.

Memorial Day Weekend Celebration

Announcing an event with live music and fireworks beginning Saturday, May 28, through Sunday, May 29, 2011, 6 to 9 p.m. with fireworks at 8:55 p.m. Picnics, chairs, blankets and coolers are welcome. Event sponsors include Wells Fargo, State Farm Insurance, St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, The Woodlands Development Company, University of Phoenix, The Woodlands Resort and Conference Center and Berripop Frozen Yogurt.

Waterway Nights starts in June

Every Saturday from June 4, through July 2, 2011, enjoy strolling entertainment and live music at Waterway Square during the Waterway Nights series. The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. Visit www.TheFountainsAtWaterwaySquare.com.

Event sponsors include The Woodlands Development Company, Kyle Sherburne – State Farm Insurance, Munday Chevrolet, Moon Water and Berripop Frozen Yogurt.

Discovery Guide & Savings Book

The Discovery Guide & Savings Book features more than 75 coupons to merchants in The Woodlands. Request yours today online at www.TheWoodlandsCVB.com/guide.asp.

Follow Us on Facebook!

Join The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Facebook Fan Page at www.Facebook.com/VisitTheWoodlands.com.

www.VisitTheWoodlands.com

Celebrate america’s birthday this July 4, 2011 at the 14th annual red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks extravaganza produced by the Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau. the Woodlands is the place to celebrate america’s birthday with an entire weekend full of events!

activities begin saturday, July 2, and continue through Monday, July 4, at the 14th annual red, Hot & Blue Festival, which begins at 6 p.m. with live music, face painting, strolling performers, games, hot dog and watermelon eating contests, vendor booths, concessions and much more. the festival begins at town Green Park, 2099 Lake robbins Drive, and continues down the Woodlands Waterway® to Waterway square, 31 Waterway square Place.

When the sun goes down, festival goers will witness one of the largest fireworks displays in the greater Houston area. the fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m., near the anadarko Building in the Woodlands, to create a bigger and betterthan-ever display of color and pageantry. the best fireworks viewing location is at Waterway square.

the festival and fireworks extravaganza are free and open to the public. Free parking is available in designated areas. Visit www.redhotblue.org for more information. 2011 red, hot and Blue sponsors:

ellis & ellis, university of Phoenix, state Farm Insurance, BBVa Compass, Coca Cola, City of shenandoah, Wright’s Printing, Bud Light, the Woodlands young Learners academy, the Woodlands Development Company, Memorial Hermann – the Woodlands Hospital, Hubbell & Hudson Market & Bistro, st. Luke’s - the Woodlands Hospital, u.s. Congressman Kevin Brady, City of Oak ridge North, two Men and a truck and splashtown.

By combining the expertise of Texas Children’s Hospital with the high level of care offered by St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, you can expect the best, right in your backyard.

Our services include:

• The expert neonatologists who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospitalmanage and staff the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, offering the best possible care for your newborn.

• The same physicians who provide pediatric emergency care at Texas Children’s Hospital are also caring for your children at the St. Luke’sThe Woodlands Hospital emergency room, 24 hours a day.

• When your child needs inpatient care at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, the premier pediatricians who provide care at Texas Children’s Hospital are there to manage care through the Pediatric Hospitalist Program.

• Texas Children’s nursing leadership is on-site to provide expert managementof newborn and pediatric services at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital.

• An experienced consultant from the Texas Children’s Lactation Program is available at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to provide lactation support and care to breastfeeding mothers and their infants, no matter where the baby was delivered.

• A Texas Children’s child life professional is available at St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to help your child and family cope with the stress of hospitalization.

DOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT. OSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER. OVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE. SCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.

You are invited to a fun-filled dog day that will benefit homeless animals in our area.

SPRING BARK 2011

DOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT. OSTER.LOVE RESCUE ADOPT FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER. OVE.RESCUE LOVE. RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.

DOPT.FOST

Saturday, May 14, 2011

ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT. SCUE.ADOPT RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE. OSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER. OVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOST VE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Northshore Park, The Woodlands, Texas

Meet terrific sponsors, hard-working rescue groups and other caring dog folks! Bring your best buddy to the Best Pet Event (Voted Best in Houston 2009 and 2010 by readers of Houston Pet Talk Magazine) in The Wooflands... Ooops! Woodlands!

SCUE.A LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.

DOPT.FO ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT. STER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE. RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.

The Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club will be hosting the annual Unified Flying Dog Operations (UFO) World Cup Qualifier, a full day of high-flying canine frisbee fun.

OVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOST LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE. SCUE.ADOPT RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.

www.thewoodlandsdogparkclub.org

For sponsorship information, please contact Laura at lakoalamac@sbcglobal.net.

DOPT.FOST .LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT. OSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER. OVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE. SCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.

ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.

DOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.FOSTER.LOVE.RESCUE.ADOPT.

www.woodlandswellness.com

Summer 2011

the

Woodlands township is accepting applications for 2011 summer seasonal positions in the Parks and recreation Department, such as lifeguards from $7.75/hour. training classes for positions will be provided at a reduced rate to successful candidates.

all team members must be at least 16 years of age, unless otherwise stated, and successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen. Leadership team members must also successfully complete an extensive background check. applications may be obtained from the Woodlands township Parks, recreation and environmental services Building, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive or recreation Center, 5310 research Forest Drive.

For more information or to apply online, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

www.wjpa.org.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Academy

The Woodlands Township recently sponsored the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Academy, held at The Woodlands Emergency Training Center. Approved by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education, the Academy provided 40 hours of training for sheriff’s deputies in various subjects. Instructors included (l to r) Lieutenant Brady Fitzgerald, Township Director of Law Enforcement Services Marian Leck, Sergeant Edd West and Sergeant Jermaine Jenkins.

ReAd All ABOUT iT!

Local Crime Information Available online

residents can get the latest law enforcement updates by going to the Woodlands township Web site at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Just click on Public safety, which is on the left side of the home page, above Got Watch. Once on the Public safety page, click Law enforcement advisories to review law enforcement updates, including:

• the Montgomery County Crime stoppers Fugitives of the Week

• the Montgomery County sheriff’s Office Media summary and Blotter review. (scroll down to District 6 to see crimes in the Woodlands)

• Media advisories (press releases) about recent crimes and arrests you can also review monthly police statistics, including those for the Village of Creekside Park (the only village in the Woodlands that is located within Harris County), by clicking Community Policing reports. each of these reports includes the number of crimes by category for all zones in the Woodlands and policing statistics for each of the nine policing zones in the Woodlands.

Zone 1 – Grogan’s Mill

Zone 2 – Panther Creek

Zone 3 – Indian springs

Zone 4 – sterling ridge

Zone 5 – alden Bridge

Zone 6 – Cochran’s Crossing

Zone 7 – College Park

Zone 8 – town Center

Zone 9 – Creekside Park

The Woodlands

cOMMUniTY eMeRgencY RespOnse TeAM

Inlight of recent tragic disasters across our globe over the past few months, the Woodlands Fire Department encourages citizens to be prepared and reiterates the importance of emergency and disaster planning for our community. One of the many ways that you can prepare yourself and your family for disasters is by signing up for the Community emergency response team (Cert) program. to date, the Woodlands Cert program has graduated approximately 200 students and armed citizens in each village with the information necessary to lend a helping hand in case of a disaster.

the Woodlands Cert program is sponsored by the Montgomery County Office of emergency Management and covers fire safety, medical operations, terrorism, incident command structure, search and rescue and more. the program is held on eight consecutive tuesday evenings, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Woodlands emergency training Center and offers a variety of hands-on demonstrations, highly trained instructors and a graduation/certification upon completion.

Cert graduates participate in various neighborhood events and volunteer during mock disaster drills, marathon races and special neighborhood safety events. additionally, the Woodlands Cert Committee meets on a monthly basis and functions as leadership for the program. Committee

members include randy scott, Carter Miller, Glen Bernstein, Mike thomson, scott Darby, Joe Hakkinen, rud Merriam, ed Commender, Paul Lancaster, Bruce Cunningham, ruth Pinney, Chad Jolley and Brian Laing.

to learn more about the national Cert program, visit www.citizencorps.gov/cert/ or www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/index.aspx?NID=590. to sign up for the next Cert class, please contact rachel Mitchell at 281-210-5833 or rmitchell@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

enjoy

one full, free, fun day of entertainment for all ages on saturday, May 14, 2011, from 3 to 9 p.m. at rob Fleming Park! enjoy local performances from vocal to dramatic, food, craft vendors, kid zone and more! Check out the daily agenda and more information at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, then click recreation, Programs and events. In the event of questionable weather the day of the event, please call the Woodlands township recreation Center at 281-210-3950 for an update. Rain Date: May 28, 2011, 3 to 9 p.m.

important Notice:

By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. They may be submitted to The Woodlands Community Magazine, P.O. Box 7859, The Woodlands, TX, 77387-7859. For more information, please call 281-210-3800.

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:

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Bring your camera and follow the clues during the first 30 days at the township pools: from saturday, May 14, through sunday, June 26, 2011. (Pre-season pools are open weekends and Memorial Day from May 14, through June 2, 2011. all pools open June 3, 2011.) When you’ve visited 13 Pools in 30 Days, you’ll win a special prize!

Rules

1. Pick up a copy of the clues and submission guidelines at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, the pools or simply print it from www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Click Recreation, Pools and Aquatics and 13 Pools in 30 Days.

2. Take one photo at each of The Woodlands pools according to the clues.

3. Once all 13 photos have been taken, submit the photos to 13poolsin30days@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. One or two photos at a time will not be accepted. See additional instructions about submitting photos.

4. All photos must be labeled with the participant’s last name.

5. All photos must be submitted by Friday, July 1, 2011, at noon.

sending Photos Via e-mail

• Send all 13 photos at one time to 13poolsin30days@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

• Include your last name in the subject line and your phone number and contact name in the body of the e-mail.

• Each photo must be titled with your last name.

• A certificate of completion will be sent back to your e-mail address. Please allow 72 hours after photos are sent for a reply.

• Present your certificate at the Riva Row Boat House, 2101 Riva Row, to receive your family prize. The Boat House is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Wednesday.

in PeRson

• Bring your photos to the Riva Row Boat House, 2101 Riva Row, to receive your family prize. The Boat House is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day except Wednesday.

as the weather warms, mosquitoes will be popping up in your neighborhood! While 2010 was a fairly slow year in terms of mosquito-borne diseases in texas, the Woodlands has been a hot spot for mosquito activity and mosquito-borne disease in years past. surveillance has identified 44 different species in the Woodlands to date. Most are considered nuisance mosquitoes. the Culex quinquefasciatus, carrier of West Nile Virus and other diseases, poses the greatest concern to human health.

there are no quick fixes to controlling mosquito-borne disease. Individuals need to be vigilant about irrigation practices and monitor standing water and containers that hold water. In every case, high numbers of disease-carrying mosquitoes correlate directly with water usage records that report at least one household in the neighborhood significantly overwatering the landscape. In addition to wasting precious water resources, overwatering creates mosquito breeding sites.

Ready or not here they come!

Often the breeding site does not develop in the yard of the person overwatering. the water flows and accumulates in a low yard in the neighborhood, or in the greenbelt, or in the storm drain. If grass and leaves are swept into the storm drain, an especially problematic situation occurs; a puddle of fetid water stagnates in the storm drain, creating the optimum breeding site for the Culex mosquito.

Neighbors working together can dramatically reduce the mosquitoes in a neighborhood. each person must take personal precautions to prevent being bitten. Wear long light loose clothes and use repellent. Be sure to follow label directions. Neighborhood, church and community groups can schedule a mosquito abatement presentation or report mosquito issues by calling the Woodlands township at 281-210-3900.

weAR repellent as a matter of habit eliMinATe all standing water

TReAT any standing water that you cannot eliminate

Mosquitoes need water to breed and grow. Eliminate or treat these problem areas to control mosquito breeding sites.

verwatering is The Woodlands’ most common deterrent to a hardy, drought-resistant lawn. Too much water promotes shallow roots that crave even more water as temperatures rise. Each summer this community-wide problem wastes 300-600 million gallons of our drinking water supply and causes an unnecessary strain on the pumping and distribution system. There is a solution that will put the supply-versus-demand in balance. This solution is especially easy for residents who have programmable irrigation controllers. Let’s adopt a defined watering schedule, much like the defined waste collection and recycling schedules.

A healthy turf requires no more than one, maybe two deep water applications per week. So here’s our recommended defined watering schedule:

• odd numbered addresses water on Saturday and Wednesday

• even numbered addresses water on Sunday and Thursday

Try it. Your turf will like it.!

Immediate benefits are less waste of our vital resource, lower water bills and a balance on water supply and demand. As always, complete your watering schedule by 4 a.m. to allow adequate system pressure for early morning family routines… bathing, washing, cooking, etc.

So give it a try!

Water no more than two days per week.