May 2021

BIKE THE WOODLANDS MONTH POOL PASSES

WATER SAFETY Be Aware. Be Vigilant.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENT

2021SUMMER ACTION GUIDE

On the Cover

The

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

message from

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors

The Woodlands

COMMUNITY 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.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Cheryl Kirsch

Graphic Designers

Jim Callahan

Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editors

Perry Frank

Shelby Doerries

Editorial Assistant Barbara Ryan

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, 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.

Emergency Preparedness Event

Saturday, May 22, 2021, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Woodlands Township

It’stime to prepare for hurricane season! Please plan to attend The Woodlands Township Emergency Preparedness Event on Saturday, May 22, 2021, from 9 a.m. to noon at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

This event offers a great opportunity to learn about emergency resources in the community from various public safety personnel and related organizations. The event is produced by The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch.

The Woodlands Township thanks the 2020/2021 sponsors: Presenting Sponsor - CenterPoint Energy, Gold Sponsor - Entergy Texas, Inc., Bronze Sponsor - Woodlands Water.

Plans are still in progress at press time, due to recent changes, so please check the calendar and press releases at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for more information. Please note, Township safety protocols will be in place to help keep attendees safer, and the event may be held inside and/or outside.

DON’T WAIT – PREPARE TODAY

Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/getready to get started on your hurricane prep, and www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/emergency for tips and resources.

STAY INFORMED: Sign up for The Woodlands Township Emergency Notifications (www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme) and your county alert system (Harris County, www.readyharris.gov; Montgomery County, www.smart911.com).

HAVE A PLAN: The Woodlands is not in an evacuation zone for the Houston region; however, there may be times when you need to evacuate. Decide now what your family will do in various circumstances.

BUILD A KIT: Assemble and replenish your food, water and emergency supplies now to prepare for any emergency.

GET INVOLVED : Get to know your neighbors and volunteer for The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch, Medical Reserve Corps, Community Emergency Response Team, American Red Cross or other volunteer organizations; take First Aid, CPR or other helpful emergency classes.

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at 281-210-3800, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov. Please like and follow The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch on Facebook.

Ewww.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT Spring 2021 Youth Art Contest Winners

For this year’s Youth Art Contest, young artists were encouraged to create their very own masterpieces using the theme of “Why I love The Woodlands.” The Township received a record number of entries, making the final selection difficult for the judges. The 84 art submissions were judged based on the following criteria: creativity and originality, artist interpretation of the theme, quality and

overall impression of design. The winners were announced at the 2021 Arts in the Park at Northshore Park on Saturday, March 13, 2021. The top three winners in each category went home with a ribbon and trophy.

Age Group: 7 years old and under

First Place ........................ Aadhrit Rathi

Second Place Alexandra Yi

Third Place Olivia Pittman

Age Group: 8 to 12 years old

First Place William Moore

Second Place .................... Abigail Sholes

Third Place .....................Gabriela Carrell

Third Place Akshay Shinde

Age Group: 13 to 18 years old

First Place Anna Kakdjian

Second Place Morgan Allen

Third Place Hannah Righi

Sunday, May 30, 2021, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Town Green Park

MEMORIAL DAY IN THE WOODLANDS  HHHHH

to a patriotic soundtrack, 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. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/memorialday for more information.

Start your summer off right at The Woodlands Township’s annual Memorial Day Event in The Woodlands, Sunday, May 30, 2021, 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 Walkin’ The Line (A Tribute to Johnny Cash) and Yelba’s Variety Band. Memorial Day in The Woodlands concludes with a dazzling fireworks display choreographed

Those planning to attend the event should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines established by the CDC when in public spaces and around others outside of your household. Please note the event is subject to change, pending local, state and federal Orders or Declarations.

Splash into Summer with a season pass to

the Township Pools

Summer is quickly approaching, and season passes for The Woodlands Township pools are available for purchase now! Get your season passes early and avoid waiting in line when the pools open. Season passes are valid for entry into all Township pools including the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.

Select pools are open for pre-season beginning May 8, 2021. The regular season for all pools is May 27 to August 10, 2021, with post-season running through September 6, 2021. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/pools for more information.

Purchasing or renewing your pool pass is easy. Call or visit one of The Woodlands Township’s recreation centers or visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun and click Fitness Room and Pool Pass Memberships. For new season pool passes, pictures must be taken at one of the recreation center locations within one week of purchasing a new pass by phone or online.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX 77389 281-516-7348

Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, TX, 77381 281-210-3950

Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Daily fees and punch cards are available during pool season. For more information, please call The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park at 281-516-7348 or The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park at 281-210-3950, or email recreation@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

May 2021

The Woodlands Bike Month

May is National Bike Month! Established in May 1956 to highlight the many benefits of riding a bike, Bike Month encourages residents to ride for fitness, transportation or recreation. The Woodlands Township will be celebrating this growing tradition with a myriad of fun events throughout the month for cyclists of all ages and abilities. The Woodlands Township, with support from Bike The Woodlands Coalition, will offer a variety of planned activities and events (both virtual and in-person) throughout the month of May.

For full details and a complete calendar of events, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/bicycling.

Please visit the Township’s online calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar for the very latest information on Township events including The Woodlands Township Board of Directors meetings, Development Standards Committee and Residential Design Review Committee Meetings, Village Meetings, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market and many other Townshiprelated activities.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash.

Providing Better Options for HEART & VASCULAR CARE in The Woodlands

Through specialized programs, clinical trials and a commitment to challenging conventional thinking, our comprehensive team of cardiovascular specialists is improving outcomes and providing better options for heart and vascular care in your community.

Our doctors specialize in treating a wide spectrum of cardiovascular diseases and disorders, including:

• Adult congenital heart disease

• Coronary artery disease

• Heart failure

• Heart rhythm disorders

• Valve disease

• Vein and artery disorders

And, you can be confident that we are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe throughout your visit.

To find a doctor or schedule an appointment, visit houstonmethodist.org/debakey/woodlands or call

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 11, 2021, at 7 p.m. As of this writing, due to the pandemic issue, our meetings have been held virtually. Follow the Alden Bridge Village Association page on Facebook or our website, www.aldenbridge.org for updates. If you are interested in attending our meetings while they are being held virtually, especially if you have a public comment or concern, please email abvainfo@gmail.com.

Many thanks to all students who submitted applications for our scholarships. We plan on honoring the recipients of our 2021 scholarships at a future date, where we can congratulate them with a small reception. 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 AldenBridgeYOM@ gmail.com no later than Friday evening, May 21, 2021. In addition to being recognized with a yard sign, the winning homeowner will receive some surprise gifts. 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 in our active Facebook page (Alden Bridge Village Association).

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

Submitted by Greg Sherlock

Cochran’s Crossing

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association welcomes Amy Raper, Jennifer Hogue and Tom Chumbley to the board! There are still four area representative positions available. If you are interested in joining the board and volunteering in the community, please contact us at cochranscrossingvillage@gmail.com.

The association will be busy working on plans for a pool party this summer and annual fall festival. Details are forthcoming on these fun family events!

Scholarship winners will be announced this month. Each year, Cochran’s Crossing awards two $500 scholarships to Cochran’s Crossing high school students continuing on to higher education. A special thank you to America’s ER and Country Air for their digital sponsorships that support the scholarship fund. If you are interested in advertising through Cochran’s Crossing Village Association while also supporting our education fund for teacher grants to our elementary schools and scholarships to high school students, please contact us at cochranscrossingvillage@gmail.com.

So far in 2021, we have been joined at board meetings by Brittany Chandler from Entergy and Matt Corley from the San Jacinto River Authority. Ms. Chandler presented information on the efforts in power restoration and repairs after the devastation from the hurricanes of 2020. She explained that the new Willis power station produces 1,000 megawatts of power. One megawatt will

power 200 houses. She also discussed reliability improvement plans and the plans for investment for repairs and improvements. She stated that Entergy plans to invest $8 million in 100,000 feet of re-cable, $3 million in 353 transformers and $2.5 million in 25 switch cabinets in The Woodlands in 2021.

Mr. Corley presented relevant information regarding water usage and subsidence. The goal is to have a mix of 50/50 surface and groundwater. He explained that surface water drawn from Lake Conroe is insignificant to the lake. The draw is approximately one-half inch per month while the recharge of the lake is about 8 feet, requiring seasonal discharge of water.

Various opportunities are available for residents to enhance security. Operation ID allows residents to check out an engraving kit to mark valuables. If your valuables are stolen and recovered, the ID may help to get the valuables back to you. Please contact The Woodlands Township to inquire about borrowing the engraving kit.

In an emergency, it is easier for the police or EMS to locate your home if your address is clearly marked on the curb. If you are interested in painting your address on your curb, you may check out the kit from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services. The numbering kit includes green paint, white paint, sponge brushes and stencils to paint the house number. It’s a fun project!

Don’t forget to sign up for the Vacation Watch program as you make your summer plans. The details and sign-up form are available at www.mctxsheriff.org. According to the website, “With the Vacation Watch program you can leave your residence knowing that law enforcement will be looking after it for you. While you are out of town the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division will check on your residence*. Patrol Officers will check to

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

assure your residence is secure and that it has not been burglarized. If anything out of the ordinary is found during these checks the emergency contact for the location of the residence will be contacted.”

Please join us at the next meeting of the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at 7 p.m. Please follow our Facebook page, Village of Cochran’s Crossing Association, and find us on our website, www.cochranscrossing.com, and email us at cochranscrossingvillage@gmail.com with any questions.

Creekside Park

Creekside Park Village is excited to welcome new and returning board members! There were three open positions after the February village association elections which were filled with the board voting at the monthly March meeting.

MUD 386 has started installing smart water meters for all homes within the district. Once a smart water meter is installed, residents can register and download an application called “EyeonWater” which will provide:

• Secure access to personal water usage data

• Greater control of how much water is used (and paid for) by reviewing personal water usage

• Alerts to get notified when you may have a leak

• Data that is available via web browser or phone app

Final installation of remaining smart meters is expected to be completed by June 2021.

Construction has begun on the recently annexed 50-acre tract off Kuykendahl and Indian Hill Rd. Toll

Brothers and Tri Pointe are the two developers that will be building single family homes. The new construction will adhere to The Woodlands Standards and Covenants. Both developers have been invited and will tentatively present a development plan and updates at the May or June village association meeting.

A reminder from our Constables to call 911 or the Constable’s Office at 281-376-3472 if you notice any suspicious activities before posting to social media. Provide your full address when calling as dispatchers may not be able to determine your location if you call from a mobile phone. This allows them to reach you faster.

Any issues noticed in your parks can be reported through the free 311 mobile app which is managed by The Woodlands Township.

Please visit and follow our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ creeksideparkvillage for all community updates. You can also visit our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com for resources and more information.

Grogan’s Mill

Be better prepared for any emergency with the Smart911 app. By signing up, you can share lifesaving information about your household with 9-1-1 and receive targeted emergency alerts.

When you call 9-1-1, your Smart911 Safety Profile displays on the 9-1-1 screen. The 9-1-1 call takers can view your addresses, medical information, home information, pets and vehicles, and emergency contacts. You can provide as much or as little information as you like. This additional information enables 9-1-1 and first responders to send help fast.

Smart911 can also keep you informed of weather, traffic and other emergencies by sending emergency alerts from the National Weather Service and

local public safety agencies. You can select the types of notifications you want and how you want to be notified. Sign up today at www.smart911.com.

Bring your used alkaline (nonrechargeable) batteries from your home, workplace, friends and families to The Woodlands Farmer’s Market where we will hold them until the village challenge officially begins. Grogan’s Mill Village Association could win up to $1,000, which we use to support schools and student scholarships in Grogan’s Mill.

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, at 7 Switchbud Place in the Grogan’s Mill Village Center. The market has varied deals on fruits, vegetables, honey, coffee, baked goods, farm-raised meats, eggs, olive oil, crafts, food and more, all from local vendors. Most Saturdays, there is live music and a food truck. Check out our website at www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ WoodlandsFarmersMarket. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to our community.

Submitted by Jennifer Robinson

Indian Springs

Earth Day GreenUp

Thanks to all the incredible volunteers who helped keep our neighborhoods and paths clean by coming to this year’s Earth Day GreenUp on March 20, 2021. The volunteers met at Falconwing Park and collected trash that contributed to the annual 4,500 pounds of litter that is normally collected during GreenUp. In addition, with every volunteer that attended this worthwhile event, Indian Springs Village Association can increase the senior scholarship amounts that are given to deserving graduating seniors annually.

continued on next page

Indian Springs Village Association Board Meeting, June 8, 2021; 7 p.m.

If any Indian Springs residents are looking to be more informed or get involved, we urge you to join us and attend the Indian Springs Village Association monthly meetings. Please join us on the second Tuesday of every month or at our next meeting on June 8, 2021 at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Indian Springs Village Association

Taste of the Village, October 23, 2021; Noon to 3 p.m.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars now for the 14th Annual Taste of the Village to be held on October 23, 2021, in the Indian Springs Village Shopping Center from noon to 3 p.m. This annual family event features live entertainment, free food samples, multiple activities for kids and a fun-filled afternoon. For more information, please contact michael.saucier@indianspringsvillage.com.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Panther Creek Village Association and its members believe in the importance of higher education for our residents. Our scholarships are meant to encourage residents of our community to continue their education. Our scholarships are not limited to academic degree programs and can be used for trade schools or equivalent professional training. They are also not limited to recent high school graduates.

To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must be residents of Panther Creek and provide documentation of acceptance to a trade school, college or university to further education in the next semester. Applicants should be willing to share their scholarship story and participate in a photo shoot with the Panther Creek Village Association Scholarship Committee.

We generally grant one to two $1,000 scholarships per year in early June, depending upon available funding. Recipients are evaluated on several factors including financial need,

attendance at a local school or training program, prior community service activity and likelihood of settling in the local community after graduation. Applications close May 1, 2021.

In honor of Old Glory and our nation, we will again hold our Annual Village Family Picnic on Saturday, June 12, 2021. All residents of Panther Creek are invited. The association will provide lunch and free access to the community pool for the day at Ridgewood Park. Free entertainment includes face painters and balloon animals as well as the everpopular snow-cone truck, display of many different USA flags and exhibits from several community organizations including public safety, law enforcement and community services.

Panther Creek Village Association meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. All residents of Panther Creek are invited to attend. Please visit us online at www.panthercreekvillage.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

AC T I ON GUID E

View:

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/actionguide

Register:

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun

The Woodlands Township has an exciting slate of programs and activities in the Summer 2021 Action Guide! Available digitally to view at:

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/actionguide

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

Registration is available in three convenient formats!

• Register online: www thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/signupforfun

• Register via phone:

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 281-210-3950

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch 281-516-7348

• Register in person at one of the recreation centers:

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77389

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381

The 2021 Summer Action Guide includes: Sunny Dayz, Sports and STEM Camps

Aquatics Programs

Tennis

CLEAN THE GREEN FROM YOUR HOUSE

Have you noticed some green stuff on your house lately? It’s probably algae or mildew. Algae and mildew aren’t very selective, and they will grow just as easily on bricks, concrete and fences as on siding. Due to our climate, every home in The Woodlands is an algae and mildew candidate!

Painting over areas of algae or mildew will only cause the new paint to fail. Removal is the only solution to this creeping villain. The simplest and least expensive removal treatment is to apply a solution of 10 parts water to one part common bleach (a 10 percent solution)* to the affected areas. Be sure to wet foundation plantings first, and rinse everything in clean water when done to protect your plants from the bleach. Wear gloves and be careful not to come into direct contact with the bleach.

Local home improvement and hardware stores may also stock products designed specifically to treat algae and mildew. Power washing your house

occasionally with water only may help prevent mildew and algae from gaining a foothold.

WHAT IS ALGAE?

Algae, a plant, is typically green, dark blue, red or orange. This airborne living organism can occur on almost any building material, including wooden and fiber cement siding, fences, concrete, roof shingles and bricks.

WHAT IS MILDEW?

Mildew, a fungus, can be identified as a blackish gray stain that appears like dirt, but does not come off with detergent.

For more information about Covenants and Standards in The Woodlands, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ covenants.

WATERWAY NIGHTS

2021 Summer Series at Waterway Square

Enjoylive music by local and regional performers in the picturesque setting of Waterway Square at Waterway Nights, 31 Waterway Square Place. These free, familyfriendly outdoor concerts, held on Saturday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., make an eventful night out in

The Woodlands Town Center. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and coolers (glass is prohibited). Waterway Nights is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department.

The Fountains at Waterway Square have resumed their showings after a complete renovation! This large

MAY 15 ............... Whiskey Business (Variety)

MAY 22 Midnight Release (Variety)

MAY 29 ................................... OMG (Variety)

JUNE 5 ................ Donavan Keith (Soul/R&B)

JUNE 12 Say Yes, Juliet (Indie/Alternative)

JUNE 19 ....................... Yelba (Latin/Variety)

JUNE 26 .....Level One Band (Motown/Funk)

Those planning to attend the concerts should practice social distancing, refrain from gathering in large groups and continue following all guidelines established by the CDC when in public spaces and around others outside of your household. Please note all concert dates are subject to change, pending local, state and federal Orders or Declarations.

fountain boasts numerous waterfalls throughout the square along with the impressive main fountain. A number of musical selections accompany the Fountains during scheduled showtimes. Performances are every 15 minutes weekdays noon to 2 p.m. and 6 to 11 p.m., and weekends noon to 11 p.m.

THE THE AND THE

GOOD BAD UGLY

BUGS

If you thought the wildly frigid temperatures of Winter Storm Uri were going to reduce insect populations, think again. Just go outside. They’re everywhere!

Some are nasty bugs, destroying many of your ornamentals and vegetables, but there are about 1,000 times as many good bugs as bad bugs.

Some good guys pollinate flowers of many fruit and vegetable crops, while others pollinate ornamental flowers. Some of the good bugs till the soil. Earthworms, though not a bug, and burrowing beetles both eat the organic material in the ground.

And some are predators, eating the pests as quickly as they arrive. These good-guy predators include ladybugs, lacewings and lacewing larvae. Ladybugs are beneficial to plants and landscapes, making them one of the good bugs to

have in your yard. They eat aphids and are beneficial. Praying mantids eat other destructive insects, like grasshoppers. There are even parasitic insects that lay their eggs inside a host. When the eggs hatch, the larvae eat the host from inside out. It’s gruesome but highly effective. One parasitic wasp preys entirely on fire ant colonies. Studies are currently being conducted in South Texas by Texas A&M on these wasp parasites.

Then there are the bees. Yes, there are honeybees, and they are highly beneficial. But there are at least 4,000 species of native bees in North America. Etymologists have identified more than 800 of these species in Texas.

Some insects provide food for other wildlife. Take tent caterpillars, for instance. Although they’re unsightly, they cause no significant damage to the trees. However, these tent caterpillars provide essential food for the many migrating birds heading to Latin America for the winter.

Avoid Harmful Pesticides

A hard spray from a hose or a gentle spurt from a spray bottle filled with warm water and a little dishwashing liquid will dislodge aphids and other pests. Chinch bugs are tough to destroy. They love to infest lawns along curbs and driveways - mainly because they like the heat and dryness of those areas. Many times our sprinkler systems overshoot those little niches. Use a hose and spray around the curbs, driveways, and sidewalks once a week to discourage those pests.

Avoiding harmful pesticides is less expensive and healthier. Some pesticides remain in the soil, some leach out into storm sewers, streams and waterways. Use your judgment, but only use harmful pesticides as a last-ditch effort. They can contribute to the pollution of streams and waterways.

This article was provided by Woodlands Water, www.woodlandswater.org.

A Message From Tachus

Based in The Woodlands, Tachus is an Internet provider building its 100 percent fiber optic network throughout north Houston. In The Woodlands alone, Tachus is investing over $45 million.

Bringing Tachus to The Woodlands requires a comprehensive construction process in which Tachus’ contractors install conduit and fiber in the front rightsof-way along streets. Tachus’ #1 goal with construction is to keep it as safe and non-disruptive as possible. Before a project, contractors performing the physical construction must request that existing utility companies mark the location of their lines with flags and temporary paint, either by calling 811 or contacting them directly. Under Texas law, most existing utilities have 48 hours from then to mark, or locate, their lines, and the ensuring construction must be completed within 14 days. Otherwise, the locate process has to be re-initiated.

Parties that do not follow this established law are liable for damages, and Tachus supports the Township’s proposal to penalize at-fault excavators or utility owners when Township resources are required. While Tachus enforces its contractors to strictly adhere to Texas law, unfortunately these contractors have encountered an usually high number of situations of utility companies not accurately marking their lines or, sometimes, leaving them unmarked. Tachus is in discussions with these utility companies to find ways to improve their locates and make this process safer for residents of The Woodlands. Tachus addresses every construction issue that it is notified of, so if you have experienced one, please call Tachus directly at 832-791-1100.

Put Your House in Order

Clean your gutters. You are certain to breed mosquitoes and risk house damage if you don’t.

Point downspouts away from concrete and toward trees and shrubs to harness rainwater.

Tune up that sprinkler system. Go to The Woodlands Township YouTube page and check out the Environmental Services Department playlist.

Cleaning out the garage?

Use the Donation and Recycle More Guides located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/recyclemore.

Those leaves from the gutter? Set out in bins or compostable bags on your regular service day or try backyard composting with a CE Sheppard bin for $50.

For more information, please email enviro@thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov or call 281-210-3800.

SinceMay is National Mental Health Month

1949, the U.S. has observed May as National Mental Health Month. Over these many years, it has been determined that one in five people will experience a mental health illness during their lifetime. With the pandemic, the increase in mental health concerns have skyrocketed.

Children’s Safe Harbor’s Counseling Department has seen an increase in stress due to concerns with health, safety, job security and prolonged distance from loved ones. Children’s Safe Harbor has addressed these concerns during the past 15 months by offering tele-mental health services and by creating a new program of Mental Health Advocates (MHA) charged with the role of getting children into service and providing basic needs.

The rise in assessments of need and provision MHA services demonstrates our current reality:

110%

For national initiatives, please visit www.mhanational.org

www.childrenssafeharbor.org

“

CONGRATULATIONS!

to The John Cooper School CLASS of 2021 as you continue to journey “from curiosity to wisdom.”

Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow s reality.

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Garbage Service Memorial Day Reminder

Therewill be no interruption of trash, recycling or yard waste service on Monday, May 31, 2021. All residents will receive service on their regular service day for the week of the Memorial Day holiday. The Woodlands Township Recycling Center will maintain normal operating hours: Wednesday, 4 to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Precinct 3 Recycling Center will be closed on Monday, May 31, 2021, in observance of the holiday. Remember, please do not bag recyclables and avoid parking on the street on your service day.

For more information about future holidays and their impact on trash, recycling and yard waste service, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ holidaytrash.

Important Notice: By submitting letters, photos and other materials to The Woodlands Community Magazine (TWCM) you agree that the materials submitted will become the property of TWCM and will not be returned. You also agree that TWCM, its assigns, and the publisher, have been granted the non-exclusive right to use and /or reproduce the materials in any manner and for any purpose. You also agree that you have made no other considerations for the use of any submissions unless authorized in writing by TWCM and the Publisher. For more information, please call 281-210-3800. Photographs may be submitted, and are encouraged, for publication either within the magazine or on the cover. There is no payment for photographs featured either within the publication or on the cover. Both amateur and professional slides and photographs, featuring Woodlands people and scenes, are welcome. Disclaimer: The Publisher, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. (CP&PI), and The Woodlands Township assume no responsibility for the advertising content within this publication. All warranties and representations made in the advertising content are solely that of the advertiser and any such claims regarding its content should be addressed directly with the advertiser. The Publisher retains exclusive rights to the acceptance or denial of all advertising copy. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no liability with regard to its advertisers for misprints or failure to place advertising in this publication except for the actual cost of such advertising. Although every effort is taken to avoid mistakes and or misprints in this publication, Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors of information or typographical mistakes, except as limited to the cost of advertising as stated above or in the case of misinformation, a printed retraction/correction. Under no circumstances shall The Publisher, The Woodlands Township be held liable for incidental or consequential damages, inconvenience, loss of business or services, or any other liabilities from failure to publish, or from failure to publish in a timely manner, except as limited to the liabilities stated above. Articles, cartoons, and photographs in this magazine express the opinions of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of CP&PI or its employees. Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. or its employees assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of any facts stated in articles submitted by others. Space does not always permit a full description of provisions of The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards being discussed. This magazine does not replace or alter The Woodlands Covenants or Residential Development Standards. Always refer to the Covenants or Standards or call the office for specific information. Copyright: The Woodlands Community Magazine is published monthly in Houston, Texas, U.S.A. by Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc., 6608 FM 1960 West, Suite G, Houston Texas 77069. Copyright © 2021. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written consent of the publisher or The Woodlands Township.

WaterSafety Be Aware. Be Vigilant

May is National Water Safety Month, and The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch wants to encourage you and your family to become vigilant about water safety. Drowning is the leading cause of injury death in the U.S. for children ages 1 to 4 years and the third leading cause of unintentional injury death in children and adolescents ages 5 to 19 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Unfortunately, Texas leads the nation in drowning deaths. Becoming aware of water safety will make this summer’s water activities much safer…and more fun, too!

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch and Parks and Recreation Aquatics Division encourage you to use the following layers of protection: Supervision, Barriers and Education.

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• Supervision: Children should never be left unsupervised around water. Stay within arm’s reach of children and always designate a “Water Watcher” who will monitor children in the water. Have your phone available for emergencies only.

• Barriers: If you have a pool, ensure your pool is completely surrounded by a childproof barrier with a selfclosing and self-latching gate. Utilize alarms to alert you to a breach of this barrier.

• Education: Enroll your children in swim lessons such as The Woodlands Township’s Learn to Swim program. Warn children not to play in or near ponds, drainage ditches and runoff areas. Learn CPR. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/calendarofevents for online registration in CPR classes.

WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

Learn to Swim Program

Swimming lessons save lives! Classes this summer will be for ages 6 months to 12 years with times in the morning and evening. Each session meets for seven classes and uses the time-tested curriculum of the American Red Cross Learn to Swim program. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/739/Learn-to-Swim for more information. Spaces fill up quickly so sign up today!

Water safety is not seasonal and not just about pools. Just as you teach your children to look both ways before they cross the street, it is essential to teach your children to be safe around water. Even if you do not own a pool, water safety should be discussed. Below are some general rules and expectations. Discuss these rules and take a family pledge!

I PLEDGE TO:

• Make eye contact with an adult to ask permission to enter the water.

• Never swim alone.

• Obey pool rules.

• Walk – I won’t run.

• Wear a flotation device if I am not a proficient swimmer.

• Not play rough.

• Enter pool feet first unless I know how to dive safely and the area is safe to do so.

• Swim in designated areas only.

Never underestimate the power of human connection.

Kindness is a gift that each of us is born with. And when we share it, the goodness that’s released is amazing. Our human connection is important to our well-being, but it’s essential when we’re sick and hurting. For decades, we’ve been proud to bring world-class medical and academic excellence to our communities. But we also know that treating every patient with kindness, empathy, and respect is key to healing. Humankindness is what we call this strength. It has stood the trials of life and the test of time, and it leads us forward every day. Learn more at stlukeshealth.org.