June 2015

YOUR BACK OR NECK PAIN IS UNIQUE TO YOU. SHOULDN’T YOUR TREATMENT BE, TOO?

At Houston Methodist, our team of world-class specialists uses leading-edge imaging, surgical and rehabilitative technologies to diagnose and treat your back and neck pain. Our comprehensive approach delivers an individualized treatment plan using proven, best-in-class methods. Whether your pain is new or decades old, we have the technology and expertise to help you rebuild strength and lead you on your personal journey to living a pain-free life.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at one of our locations, visit houstonmethodist.org or call 713.790.3333 .

• Central – Texas Medical Center

• East – San Jacinto

• Northwest – Willowbrook

• Southeast – St. John

• Southwest – Sugar Land

• West – Katy

• North – The Woodlands (opening in 2017)

6

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

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office 281-297-6500, Business, M-F, 8 a.m. - 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

The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency (Montgomery County MUDs) 855-H20-SAVE (855-426-7283)

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

Emergency 911

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

message

from the woodlands township board of directors

Be Prepared for Hurricane Season

June

is the beginning of the five-month hurricane season. The Woodlands Township Board of Directors urges all residents to be prepared by planning what you and your family should do if disaster strikes. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ emergency for additional information and resources. During an emergency, for information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST 99.7 FM, the official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township. Why

• Fully redundant power

•

• North Houston and Conroe coverage area

•

Come on over.

We’re right here in The Woodlands. Get nationally ranked care at Texas Children’s Health Center, Texas Children’s Pediatrics and St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital.

Our Health Centers and Texas Children’s Pediatrics practices offer convenient access to exper t pediatricians, subspecialists and therapeutic and diagnostic ser vices. We also partner with St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital to offer newborn care from Texas Children’s specialists.

So when your child needs to see a doctor, come right over. We’re right here in The Woodlands, ready to lend a helping hand.

For maps and information, visit texaschildrens .org/woodlands .

Texas Children’s Health Center

The Woodlands

17198 St. Luke’s Way, Suite 300

The Woodlands, TX 77384 936-321-0808

th of July Weekend 4 guide Your for

Events in The Woodlands

Friday, July 3, 2015

6 p.m. Dinner along The Woodlands Waterway

Dine at one of the many restaurants on The Woodlands Waterway where you can enjoy cuisine ranging from South American to Italian and Asianfusion. After dinner, board one of The Woodlands Waterway Cruisers to take you to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

8 p.m. Star-Spangled Salute

Ignite your patriotic spirit at the annual Star-Spangled Salute concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. This free Independence Eve spectacular features the Houston Symphony performing a selection of patriotic favorites. For more information, please visit www.woodlandscenter.org.

Saturday, July 4, 2015

9 a.m. Fourth of July Parade

Save your seat to get a great view of the Fourth of July parade. This year’s parade theme is “America’s Heroes.” The parade begins at Grogan’s Mill Road and Lake Woodlands Drive, and continues on into Market Street. For more information please visit www.4thofJuly.org.

11 a.m. Brunch at Market Street

Beat your after-parade hunger. Market Street provides a culinary experience allowing you to taste your way through elegance and culture. From savory to sweet, from coffee to wine, the choices are many when you choose Market Street as your place to dine.

1 p.m. Kayaking on Lake Woodlands

Walking distance from Market Street, Riva Row Boat House is a sure way to make your Independence Day an adventurous one. Both single and tandem kayaks are available. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/rivarowboathouse for hours and admission.

3 p.m. Pool Time Cool-down

The Woodlands has so many refreshing and beautiful pools. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools for hours and admission.

6 p.m. 18th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival

Experience the fun, food and games the 18th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival has to offer at Town Green Park and along The Woodlands Waterway. The Red, Hot & Blue Festival features fun for all ages with live music, strolling entertainers and a Fireworks Extravaganza presented by BBVA Compass.

9:30 p.m. Fireworks Extravaganza

Presented by BBVA Compass, enjoy one of the largest shows ever to be shot in The Woodlands. Please visit www.VisitTheWoodlands.com for prime viewing locations.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

9 a.m. Early Morning Breakfast

For breakfast, The Woodlands has everything from casual dining to luxurious brunches. Share your breakfast hot spots on Facebook and Instagram by tagging #visitthewoodlands.

11 a.m. Sunday Funday

End your weekend in style. Play and ride one of the two lazy rivers in The Woodlands. Visit the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center (www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/pools) or book a stay at The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center and receive the special The Woodlands resident offer (www.woodlandsresort.com/special_offers).

Soil quality and quantity are important when

SODDING A LAWN

Theamount of soil that lies beneath many lawns in the area is woefully inadequate. Sample plugs taken show that some sod has less than a half inch of soil beneath them. Beneath that, more often than not, lies an impermeable layer of clay. Grass roots have a difficult time penetrating that clay barrier. It also causes irrigation water and rain to sheet off into the streets, making watering more expensive and wasteful. In some places, sod was laid directly over clay or even gravel, with no soil added. Be wary of contractors who leave behind a thin layer of soil under the sod.

As the adage above alludes to, soil is the most important component when installing a new lawn. The soil under the lawn should cost more than the lawn. The first and most important thing a homeowner can do is to have their soil tested. Texas A&M’s Soil, Water and Forage Testing Laboratory will provide homeowners with an analysis of soil. For more information on soil tests, residents can call the Montgomery Master Gardeners hotline at 936-539-7824. Test results will indicate the pH of the soil, any deficits in macro-nutrients (like nitrogen,

AMOUNT OF SOIL NEEDED (IN CUBIC YARDS)

potassium and phosphates), and organic content. For instance, if the soil is low in nitrogen, blood meal or other organics can remedy that problem. It’s good to test any new soil brought in as well.

Don’t be stingy when it comes to soil. Lawn experts agree that the ideal soil depth should be at least four inches for a healthy, long-lived lawn. If affordable, experts recommend more than that. Adding enough soil is not cheap. Adding 4 inches of soil to a 5,000 square foot lawn requires about 62 cubic yards of soil. While sod for that much area will cost about $700, adding 4 inches of soil could cost upward of $1,000. Believe it or not, in time this will pay for itself, through increased health of the lawn, less watering, fertilizing and weeding, and, of course, a considerably improved appearance.

The old adage, “it’s better to put a $1 plant into a $10 hole than it is to put a $10 plant into a $1 hole” also holds true for lawns.

I chose the MD Anderson close to me.

- Gary Truver, Jr.

When I had cancer, the world’s leading care was right here.

My team of experts focused only on me and my cancer. They guided me through advanced MD Anderson treatment options including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, clinical trials and support services. They customized a plan just for me. Three months after I completed treatment, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. MD Anderson was there for both of us. Having MD Anderson in our community kept me close to my wife and three boys and my mom close to her grandsons. I chose the MD Anderson close to me. Find your MD Anderson today.

Choose one of the following things to do this month to become better prepared:

Talk with family members to identify your household’s unique needs.

What kinds of things can members of your household not be without for 72 hours? Here are some examples of things that can create unique needs for your family:

• Infants and young children

• Prescription medication (keep a three-day supply with you)

• Health-related supplies (For example, diabetics need insulin syringes, alcohol wipes and glucometer supplies)

• Assistive devices (glasses, canes, etc.)

• Pets

UNIQUE FAMILY NEEDS

Every household is different. Is there an infant or young child in your home? Does someone in your family have a medical condition that requires medication? Do you have a pet? Before disaster strikes, talk to your family about your household’s unique needs. Make a list of special items you may need in a disaster.

Make a plan to make sure pets are taken care of in a disaster. Consider asking a trusted neighbor to check on your pets if you can’t get home because of a disaster or emergency. Remember, pets are not allowed in most emergency shelters. Talk to your local animal control agency or humane society about options for sheltering your pet in a disaster.

If you or someone in your household has a disability, create an evacuation plan that works for them.

If you have a disability and you live in an area where disasters can happen, make sure you have an evacuation plan:

• Make sure you are signed up for any emergency notification systems your

www.facebook.com/TheWoodlandsCERT

community offers. Some notification systems will only call landline phones. If you use a cellphone, you may have to sign up separately.

• Paratransit services may not be available once a disaster happens. Talk to your paratransit provider now to find out what services they can provide when evacuation is ordered.

• If paratransit services aren’t available, arrange for someone else to pick you up if an evacuation is ordered. Make sure they will come for you UNLESS you tell them not to.

• Talk to your local Red Cross chapter or other organizations who provide emergency sheltering in your community.

www.twitter.com/WoodlandsCERT

www.pinterest.com/twcert

www.gleannlochseniorliving.com

STAY- CATION

EXPERIENCES, SPECIAL OFFERS Available FOR RESIDENTS OF THE WOODLANDS

Residents of The Woodlands can relax by luxurious pools, zoom down waterslides, enjoy s’mores by the fire pit and delight with breakfast in bed – all without the hassle and costs of a long drive or boarding a plane.

Whether it’s for the family, with girl friends or just the two of you, a stay-cation in The Woodlands is ideal for getting away from the everyday.

Best of all, residents of The Woodlands can now save with special stay-cation incentives that make a local getaway all the more enjoyable.

At The Woodlands Resort, local residents can enjoy all-new, deluxe accommodations along with unlimited use of the resort’s Forest Oasis Waterscape with its waterslides, Lazy River, flowing waterfalls and Puffy’s Sprayground™, a synchronized water experience with waterspouts and fountains, all for discounted rates starting at $179 per night. Guests also enjoy unlimited use of the resort’s fitness center, access to on-property golf, spa services and more.

The resident-only rate at The Woodlands Resort is available year-round based on availability. Guests must present proof of residence (valid driver’s license or identification with The Woodlands, TX) at check-in. To book the resort’s resident rate, go to www.woodlandsresort.com/ special_offers.

Nearby, at the posh Hyatt Market Street, guests can save up to 30 percent off the hotel’s regular overnight rate for deluxe accommodations with views of Market Street or the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. At Hyatt Market Street, guests can unwind in the hotel’s infinity pool and whirlpool on its spectacular, second-floor outdoor terrace. In-room massage and spa services are also available upon request. Plus, its Zagat-rated Market Street Kitchen and Bar is the perfect spot to unwind with a signature cocktail by an outdoor fire pit while overlooking Market Street.

To book a stay-cation at Hyatt Market Street, visit www.hyattmarketstreet.com and enter the offer code WKND15.

The hotel’s resident-only rate is available Thursday to Sunday based on availability.

While stay-cationing, families in The Woodlands can board a Waterway Cruiser, delight in the synchronized fountains at Waterway Square, enjoy a picnic and kite flying in Town Green Park, visit exhibits at The Woodlands Children’s Museum and more, all within The Woodlands Town Center and nearby Panther Creek.

For great shopping finds, The Woodlands certainly will not disappoint. At Market Street, shoppers can browse luxury favorites such as Trina Turk,

Kate Spade, Kendra Scott, Michael Kors, Elaine Turner, Tiffany & Co. and more. Nearby, The Woodlands Mall is home to a Nordstrom as well as Forever 21, Coach, Apple, Microsoft and more.

To create your own stay-cation experience, go to www.VisitTheWoodlands. com. While on the website, request a free Visitor’s Guide and a free coupon book filled with money-saving offers to several stay-cation experiences in The Woodlands. Also, “Like” The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VisitTheWoodlands, “follow” them on Twitter at www.Twitter. com/TheWoodlandsCVB and “view” them on YouTube www.YouTube.com/ TheWoodlandsCVB.

Recycling Evolution r

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CAPS AND CORKS?

Mostcaps on plastic bottles and jars are #5 polypropylene and highly recyclable. Since plastic bottles and their caps are typically different types of plastic, conventional wisdom says they should be handled separately. Recycling processors advised communities to empty, rinse and recycle bottles, but to discard the caps. Caps were considered too small to be recovered at the Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Because caps were considered a difficult-to-recover item, caps were targeted for collection the past five years for the annual recycling challenge at 3R Bazaar, our community’s America Recycles Day event. Creative collection sites and partnerships with the villages garnered more than one ton of #5 plastic caps for recycling in 2014 alone!

Now, technical advances for processing plastics can separate cap and bottle plastics based on density after they are shredded. The current recommendation from plastic processors is to replace the plastic caps after containers are emptied and rinsed. Everything is recycled; nothing is lost on the conveyor belt. The need for a special separate collection of caps no longer exists.

Materials Recovery Facilities are recommending replacing the caps on plastic bottles after first emptying and rinsing.

New in Recycling:

ü Plastic caps

ü Empty and rinse bottles and jars

ü Replace caps

The annual ARD challenge also included corks, and like caps, the villages did an outstanding job of collecting hundreds of pounds of corks each year. On a go-forward basis, corks can be taken to local Specs stores that recycle corks to benefit cancer research.

For more information recycling beyond the ordinary, check the Recycle More Guide at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/recycling. Watch this publication for more details about ARD Village Challenge for 2015.

ü Recycle curbside

ü Corks, plastic and natural

ü Drop off at local Specs stores

ü Recycling benefits cancer research

To bring a dedicated pediatric hospital to a growing community.

The Promise campaign will support construction of Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands — giving communities north of Houston a children’s hospital close to home, where they need it most.

texaschildrens.org/promise

June 2015

It is not unusual to see a bevy of butterflies covering the common buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis) in June through September when the flowers are present. The “halo” of stamens on the round flower clusters is distinctive. It is our only shrub having opposite leaves or leaves in whorls of three along with flowers and fruits in spherical heads. There are specimens in Shadowlake Marsh, Mystic Lake Park, Meadowlake Park and Clover Park.

Tuesday, June 2

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Wednesday, June 3

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 5:30 p.m. 281-210-3973

Thursday, June 4

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Friday, June 5

Regular pool season hours begin. See page 22 or visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Saturday, June 6

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market 8 a.m. to noon (rain or shine)

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

Introduction to Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Riva Row Boat House

10 to 11:15 a.m.

281-210-3965

$30 Resident, $35 Non-Resident

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

7 to 9 p.m. 281-363-2447

Tuesday, June 9

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Thursday, June 11

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Ad Hoc Transportation Committee Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 2 p.m. 281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3886

Saturday, June 13

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

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

Emergency Preparedness

Community Event

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 281-210-3884

Waterway Nights Waterway Square 7 to 9 p.m. 281-363-2447

Sunday, June 14

Flag Day

Monday, June 15

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6:30 p.m. 281-210-3887

College Park Village Association Meeting 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m. 281-210-3889

Wednesday, June 17

Development Standards Committee Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 5:30 p.m. 281-210-3973

Law Enforcement Advisory

Council Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, June 18

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 9 a.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, June 20

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

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

Introduction to Stand-Up

Paddle Boarding

Riva Row Boat House

10 to 11:15 a.m.

281-210-3965

$30 Resident, $35 Non-Resident

Good Neighbor Days Fire Station 8

10 to 11:30 a.m. 281-210-3800

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

7 to 9 p.m. 281-363-2447

Sunday, June 21

Father’s Day

Tuesday, June 23

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m. 281-210-3887

Wednesday, June 24

Watch Talk Wednesdays

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Noon to 1 p.m.

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m. 281-210-3800

Saturday, June 27

Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market

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

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center, 2230 Buckthorne Place

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Good Neighbor Days

Fire Station 5

10 to 11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Waterway Nights

Waterway Square

7 to 9 p.m.

281-363-2447

Upcoming Events

Saturday, July 4

Fourth of July Events

See page 6 for details.

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

For AHA Heartsaver and First Aid classes please visit the Township calendar located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

NO CHANGES IN GARBAGE SERVICE THIS MONTH.

Watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

REMEMBER The Woodlands Covenants require that trash and recycling carts must be stored out of public view. Leaving trash carts out longer than necessary detracts from the curb appeal of neighborhoods and becomes an eyesore. Trash and recycling receptacles may be placed at the curb on the day prior to trash pickup and should be removed from the curb by the end of the day of trash pickup.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

Alden Bridge

This month’s residents meeting will be held Tuesday, June 9, 2015, at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest. All residents are invited to attend and bring us your questions and concerns. As of this date, our speaker has not been scheduled, but watch our website for updates.

We’re very proud to announce the winners of our $1,000 scholarships for 2015! Kayla Brocato, Ryan Dumas, Joseph Hnath, Eric Kroon and Rachel Vaughn are all students at The Woodlands High School and are outstanding in scholarship and community/school involvement. In addition, Chris Frantz has been awarded our Lone Star College scholarship. Choosing our recipients is more difficult every year – there are so many deserving and well qualified applicants and choosing just a few is very difficult. Best wishes to all Alden Bridge students graduating this year!

The Alden Bridge Yard of the Month program is in full swing and, because we’re getting close to Independence Day, we’re seeking your nominations for the most patriotic front yard in our village. Please send your suggestions by June 25 to info@aldenbridge.org. We’ll judge June 26 to 29 and award June 30, 2015. Nominate your neighbors who put a little good old USA spirit in their yards (or yourself)!

Save the date: Alden Bridge will again participate in the villages’ trip to Minute Park for the Astros game at 6:10 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2015. We’re playing the Oakland Athletics that evening. Tickets are $22.00 each and the price includes round trip transport by bus from our village center. Contact us at info@aldenbridge.org if you’d like to purchase tickets. We always have a great turnout and a great time!

Our electronic newsletter is distributed monthly to nearly one thousand households. To subscribe, please send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org. This information will not be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village. Between newsletters, please

check our website (www.aldenbridge.org) or like our very active Facebook page for up-to-date information.

Cochran’s Crossing

Before you read the rest of this article, stop and check the calendar. If it’s after June 6, it’s too late to head to the Cochran’s Crossing summer pool party at Bear Branch Park. Of course you may already be aware of this annual event since it was mentioned in the May issue of The Woodlands Community Magazine.

Of course Cochran’s Crossing will be represented in the July Fourth parade. If you are a Cochran’s Crossing Village resident and would like to walk as a representative of the village or have a car you would like to show off, come to the next board meeting on June 23, 2015, and take part in the planning for the parade.

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association has also been busy with other activities. One of those was The Woodlands GreenUp. The starting point for the association this year was moved back to newly renovated Shadowbend Park. More than 150 residents participated in this event. The Cochran’s Crossing area received a thorough trash collection and it also helped remind residents of The Woodlands that everyone should do their part to keep our community free of trash year-round.

Linda Merritt, representing the Grand Parkway project, provided the association’s board and interested community members

with an update on the construction. It was interesting to note that planning for the Parkway began in 1961. Then it was officially designated in 1984. Among the considerations have been connections, capacity, commuting safety and financial elements. You can keep up with construction progress by linking to their website at www.grandparkway99.com.

Residents of Cochran’s Crossing have an opportunity to attend the monthly board meetings and get updates on Township activities and answers to questions as well as pass on suggestions. The board meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

Creekside Park

Happy June, Creekside Park Village residents! School is out and the kids are ready for summer break. All the rain and sun has brought the green we have grown to appreciate here back to The Woodlands for the summer.

If you noticed Creekside looking extra green in March, you can thank the many volunteers that attended GreenUp Day. Almost 100 residents signed up online and just shy of 200 volunteers were on hand on Green Up day. Thanks to all the volunteers and groups such as The Woodlands Hiking and Spanish clubs and a special thanks to the Boy Scouts who cleaned the lakes. We can all appreciate the work that was done and can help keep the village green throughout the year by doing our part to pick up that piece of trash we see.

The Creekside Park Village Association meeting was held on April 7, 2015. This meeting brought more green news to the village. Both The Woodlands Development Company and The Woodlands Township were in attendance and discussed plans to add additional green to our area. Both are committed to making Creekside Park Village a little more green with reforestation in the more residential areas as well additional quality trees being placed in the Creekside Park Village Green Market area. Thanks

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

to our board and their continued efforts to convey the concerns of the residents to the folks that make a difference. We look forward to seeing more residents at future meetings.

July will be here soon with the Fourth of July around the corner. Creekside Park Village had a float in last year’s parade and it was a great success due to the volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering for this wonderful event, mark your calendars and let a board member know. We would love to have you aboard!

A special note to all, summer is here and our kids will be active out and about enjoying the weather. Please be aware of this while driving through the village and around the Village Green. Have a safe and happy summer!

by

Grogan’s Mill

With funds from this year’s budget, the Grogan’s Mill Village Association is proud to have contributed $1,500 this past April to each of the four schools located in Grogan’s Mill – Lamar Elementary, Hailey Elementary, Wilkerson Intermediate and Knox Junior High – to use as each school sees fit. Over the past few years, the funds have gone toward purchasing new technology items for the teachers and students. This year’s gift represents a 50 percent increase over what we provided our schools last year, thanks in great part to the profits derived from our year-round farmers market.

New Name! The Grogan’s Mill Farmer’s Market has been renamed as The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill. With our weekly customers coming from as far away as Huntsville, we realized that our reach was much broader than just our own village and the immediate surrounding areas. If you don’t receive our weekly Farmer’s Market e-blast, sign up on our website or our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ GrogansMillVillageAssociation. Look for our ad and coupon in the new May/June “Edible Houston” magazine.

Mark your calendars now for the second annual “Back to School” Splash Day Bash at Sawmill Park Saturday, August 8, 2015.

The pool will be open to all, free of charge, from 1 to 4 p.m., and village board members will be present with free food, beverages and treats as well as entertainment and fun games and prizes for our youngest residents.

The Grogan’s Mill May Yard of the Month winners and recipient of a $50 Randall’s gift card are Jim Napier and his wife, Norma Camstra, who have lived on Huntsman’s Horn for over 10 years. Jim and Norma enjoy gardening as a couple and as a change of pace to their busy lives.

MEETING INFORMATION

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association will continue to select one winning yard each month until September. Pictures of previous winners are on our website. If you feel your yard, or the yard of a neighbor, would be a worthy candidate, please submit the address with homeowner’s name and contact information (if available) to webmaster@gmva.org.

Submitted by Bob Leilich and Dana Denton

Indian Springs

We are pleased to recognize our 2015 Indian Springs Village Association Community Service scholarship winners and assist in furthering their education with $1,000 tuition scholarships.

We are a voluntary, elected board, and one of our functions is to recognize and promote good citizenship and community service. This village is certainly fortunate to have received applications from so many incredibly qualified Indian Springs students. It was with great difficulty that the selection committee chose the winners; however, our committee felt that the following six students stood out and were

continued on page 20

ALDEN BRIDGE

The Alden Bridge Village Association (ABVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Website www.aldenbridge.org

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

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

The Cochran’s Crossing Village Association (CCVA) usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Website www.cochranscrossing.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3887 or Village Association President Stuart Schroeder at 936-273-0419.

COLLEGE PARK

The College Park Village Association (CPVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Website www.villageofcollegepark.com

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

CREEKSIDE PARK

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!

Website www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3889 or Village Association President Nancy Becker at 832-559-7004.

GROGAN’S MILL

The Grogan’s Mill Village Association (GMVA) usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Website www.grogansmillvillage.com

Questions? Contact your program specialist at 281-210-3887.

INDIAN SPRINGS

The Indian Springs Village Association (ISVA) usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us!

Website www.indianspringsvillage.com

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or Village Association President Amy Lecocq at 832-244-9585.

PANTHER CREEK

The Panther Creek Village Association (PCVA) usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Website www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-3886 or Village Association President Everett Ison at 281-298-9524.

STERLING RIDGE

The Sterling Ridge Village Association (SRVA) usually meets the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Please join us! Website www.sterling-ridge.org

Questions? Call your program specialist at 281-210-5808 or contact Village Association President Anthony Fasone at sr_twa@hotmail.com.

truly inspiring: Simone Bergsrud, Horatia Fang, Colin Gaffney, Maria Savelieva, Taimur Siddiqui and Erik Young

The types of community service varied, but the dedication of these young leaders to their community was truly impressive. We applaud the families for guiding them on their journey, but we also know that these students ultimately made their own choice to pursue this path. In a community such as The Woodlands, so many activities compete for students’ free time.

We are proud of our young Indian Springs scholarship winners and thank them for their service thus far. As this next generation of future leaders continues on with their studies, we hope that this tuition scholarship will encourage them to stay active in their communities and accomplish many great things. We would also like to send best wishes and congratulations to all of our Indian Springs students who will be graduating this year.

Submitted by Kelly Sharer

Panther Creek

The Panther Creek Village Association will kick off the summer with several events. The annual Flag Day Picnic will be held at Ridgewood Park on Interfaith Drive Saturday, June 13, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This is a very popular free event for young and old. Our master chefs will be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers to go with the ice cold sodas and snacks for all to enjoy. There will be special activities and treats for all, including the Ridgewood Park pool that will be open to all for free. There will be a special Flag Day display with veterans from the VFW to share information on flag history and etiquette. So bring the kids, bring the neighbors and most importantly bring yourself.

Join the celebration and parade on the Fourth of July. The parade route will start and end at The Woodlands United Methodist Church with parking in the Town Center area. Bring your lawn chairs, sit back and enjoy the show. Look for the panther riding in style! Additional details are in this issue.

Start planning now to join us for the annual outing to watch the Houston Astros play baseball at Minute Maid Park. On Saturday, September 19, 2015, we’ll board a custom coach at the east side of the Panther Creek Shopping Center for an enjoyable trip that is included with your ticket price. The 55 available tickets are going fast, so call Mary Bootz at 281-296-9960 for more information and your reservation.

Your Panther Creek Village Association meets the second Thursday of each month

www.teethforkidz.com

at The Woodlands Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., at 7 p.m. All residents are welcome to come and hear reports from local law enforcement, community events and issues that affect you. You’ll get reports on many of the community service activities going on, including monthly reports by Mrs. Veronica Hernandez-Mena on the actions of The Woodlands Township Board that affect you. Resident comments are welcome. This is a great place to get your concerns addressed and become a more involved member of your hometown community in Panther Creek.

Submitted by Paul

Sterling Ridge

It’s vacation time for many Sterling Ridge residents and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office is offering to help protect your home with their Vacation Watch Program. Sign up at www.mocosheriff.com/ vacationdbz.cfm. After signing up, deputies visit your home each day to check doors, windows and ensure your home is secure.

With summer upon us, now is the time to start perfecting your barbecue recipes. The Sterling Ridge Village Association will host our Ninth Annual Barbecue Challenge & Kids Festival on October 3, 2015. Awards will be given for the best brisket, ribs, pulled pork and beans. Families will find plenty of fun, food and music. Come meet your Sterling Ridge neighbors and compete for barbecue bragging rights.

We’re proud to announce that with your help, The SRVA raised and donated over $4,000 to the PTOs of our three area schools: Coulson Tough Elementary, Deretchin Elementary and Smith Elementary.

We want to congratulate the Bike

The Woodlands Coalition on their successful “Bike to Work Day” last month. For those unfamiliar with the coalition, take time to visit www.bikethewoodlands.org and learn more about their advocacy for connecting neighborhoods, safeguarding cyclists and paving the way for a more bicycle friendly community.

For more information about

The Sterling Ridge Village Association’s social events and informative meetings, visit www.sterling-ridge.org or www.facebook. com/sterlingridge.thewoodlands.

Submitted by Kirk Pozadzides

Beat the heat this summer with a Township Season Pool Pass!

with a season pass Sp Morelash

Season pool passes can be purchased at The Woodlands Township Recreation Center, in person at any Township pool, or by calling 281-210-3950. First-time purchasers may be required to go to The Woodlands Township Recreation Center to take a photo.

New for 2015! You asked, we listened. Credit cards are now accepted at all Township pools for all transactions! Cash and checks are still accepted.

Did you know The Woodlands Township pools feature a fantastic array of amenities for you and your family, all right here in The Woodlands?

Relax in the 500-foot lazy river at Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.

Ride down the three-story tube slide, also at Rob Fleming Aquatic Center.

Play under the mushroom or float on the alligator at Harper’s Landing Pool.

Launch into the deep end from the new dump-slides at Shadowbend Pool.

Learn to swim in the big shallow ends at Alden Bridge and Falconwing Pools.

Dive off the diving boards to get the biggest splash at Bear Branch Pool.

Slide together on the big blue family slide at Cranebrook Pool.

Splash with the little ones in the kiddie areas at Ridgewood and Windvale Pools.

Rock the vertical climbing wall at Sawmill Pool.

Climb across the big lily pads at Wendtwoods Pool.

Train and get fit swimming laps at Creekwood, Forestgate or Lakeside Pools.

PUNCH CARDS

Resident Punch Card (6 visits) ............. $30

All pools except Rob Fleming

Resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits)

Non-Resident Punch Card

Rob Fleming (6 visits)

2015 REGULAR SEASON

June 5 - August 23

$40

$55

Mondays - Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sundays: 1 to 6 p.m.

Independence Day: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Alden Bridge Pool, Bear Branch Pool, Cranebrook Pool, Falconwing Pool, Harper’s Landing Pool, Shadowbend Pool, Ridgewood Pool, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Sawmill Pool, Windvale Pool, Wendtwoods Pool

June 5 - August 23

Mondays - Saturdays: Noon to 6 p.m.

Sundays: 1 to 6 p.m.

Independence Day: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m

Creekwood Pool, Forestgate Pool, Lakeside Pool

2015 POST SEASON WEEKEND USE

August 29 - 30, September 5 - 7,

September 12 - 13, September 19 - 20,

September 26 - 27

Saturdays: Noon to 6 p.m.

Sundays: 1 to 6 p.m.

Shadowbend Pool, Cranebrook Pool, Creekwood Pool, Forestgate Pool, Harper’s Landing Pool, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Sawmill Pool, Wendtwoods Pool, Windvale Pool

Labor Day Monday: Noon to 6 p.m.

All 14 pools open.

2015 POST SEASON WEEKDAY USE

August 24 - 27, August 31 - September 3

Mondays - Thursdays: 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Fridays: Closed

Shadowbend Pool

SCHEDULED IN-SERVICE DAYS

Each pool is closed one day a week for service.

Monday: Alden Bridge Pool, Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, Forestgate Pool

Tuesday: Ridgewood Pool, Sawmill Pool, Windvale Pool

Wednesday: Bear Branch Pool, Falconwing Pool, Wendtwoods Pool

Thursday: Harper’s Landing Pool, Creekwood Pool, Cranebrook Pool

Friday: Lakeside Pool, Shadowbend Pool

The Woodlands

Emergency Preparedness Program

Planned Participants

• The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch

• Entergy Texas, Inc.

• The Woodlands Fire Department

• Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, District 6 Crime Prevention Unit

• Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4

• Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management

• National Weather Service

• The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team

• Montgomery County Hospital District/Medical Reserve Corps

• Montgomery County 9-1-1

• Montgomery County Search and Rescue

• American Red Cross

• Montgomery County Amateur Radio Emergency Services

• Interfaith of The Woodlands

• Montgomery County United Way/ MC-CARES/HelpOurCounty.org

• Montgomery County Sheriff Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association

• CenterPoint Energy

• H-E-B

• Home Depot

• Urgent Care for Kids

The Woodlands Emergency Preparedness Community Event

Learnwhat steps that you and your family should take to be prepared for a hurricane or any emergency. Find out how to make an emergency plan, prepare an emergency kit, stay informed in an emergency and how to get involved in the community. Learn how you and your neighbors can work together. Whether you live here or work here, find out where information will be available in The Woodlands before, during and after an emergency.

The Woodlands Township is hosting The Woodlands Emergency Preparedness Event Saturday, June 13, 2015, at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. Entergy Texas, Inc. is the presenting sponsor. Residents and businesses in The Woodlands are invited to drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to the free event. See the exciting Arcs and Sparks electricity demonstrations provided by Entergy Texas, Inc., visit with public safety and community service providers about emergency preparedness, view displays, see inside public safety vehicles, receive free promotional items and more at this fun, family event!

Sallie Rainer, president and CEO of Entergy, Texas, expressed what a good fit the company’s sponsorship is with the event. “Many of us are in the business

of being prepared for and responding to hurricanes and other emergencies,” she said. “We look forward to a day spent with many of our community partners where we can network with one another and the public about a subject that is important to all of us.”

Attendees will be able to drop by any of the booths during the event to visit with representatives and pick up free handouts. In addition, planned presentations include weather emergencies and hurricane predictions for 2015 from National Weather Service; information about CERT from The Woodlands Community Emergency Response Team; The Woodlands Township Neighborhood

Watch and more. Also, emergency preparedness videos for the Houston region will be shown during the event. A schedule of presentations will be posted to The Woodlands Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov before the event.

“I have always said the true first responders are our citizens,” states The Woodlands Fire Department Chief Alan B. Benson. “The better they can prepare and sustain, the quicker we can restore our community back to normal.”

“An important piece of any emergency plan is working together and utilizing all of your resources,” says Township Director of Law Enforcement Marian Leck. “Don’t wait for an emergency to get to know your neighbor!”

Please join us for this fun and informative event! Emergency preparedness activities for the whole family will be available, so join us and Get Ready!

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800 or visit the website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Put your emergency supply kit together now

Assembling a basic emergency supply kit will put everything you need to get by in one place. Recommended supplies to include are:

• 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 website at www.ready.gov.

After three decades of providing a sense of community, a safe community, through education and partnerships, The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch is excited to share a new name and look.

You might ask, “What’s in a name?”

In 1984 when programming began under the community association, we were named “The Woodlands Watch.” Today, our community is The Woodlands Township. Incorporating the Township name and logo, as well as specifically identifying ourselves as the neighborhood watch, lets residents know that we are an official program.

community-oriented policing is important and the crime prevention program of The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch helps to foster an ongoing commitment to that end.

The strength of The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch can be attributed to the dedication of the network of watch volunteer coordinators. To help reduce or eliminate “crimes

From the beginning, crime prevention programming and the neighborhood watch concept has played an important role in keeping The Woodlands safe. In fact, the first law enforcement study commissioned for The Woodlands recommended, “that a well-developed proactive neighborhood watch should be developed and maintained.” Similar recommendations and findings have been found in every law enforcement study since. The message has been clear,

of opportunity,” an educated and alert neighborhood is in an excellent position to observe any suspicious activity on the street, and in turn immediately report it. Watch neighborhoods assist law enforcement by being the eyes and ears of their neighborhoods, making them an integral part of community policing. Organizing The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch in your neighborhood is easy – a watch volunteer coordinator is needed, and

we’ll provide all necessary crime prevention education and material. Your neighborhood is important to us, whether you’re in a residential, senior, apartment or business community.

All crime prevention programming and education is in partnership with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, District 6 and Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4. Fire prevention is important to us as well, with programming and education provided by The Woodlands Fire Department.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch has three specific crime prevention initiatives that we can bring to your neighborhood: a Good Neighbor Day, Watch Meeting or Dog Walker Watch. We also offer a variety of topic-specific crime prevention presentations, including identity theft, personal safety and safe at home, to name a few. Or, we can tailor other crime prevention topics upon request. We are available to share these presentations at your PTO/PTA, community organization, church or social meetings.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch is an awardwinning program, which has been recognized by the Texas Crime Prevention Association, International Society of Crime Prevention Practitioners and the National Association of Town Watch. Additional community-wide programming includes National Night Out, National Night Out Community Safety Expo and the Community Preparedness event. To participate, please contact us at 281-210-3800 or neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Good Neighbor Days with The Woodlands Fire Department

Station 8

June 20, 2015, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 8, 11800 Gosling Road

Station 5

June 27, 2015, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 5, 10100 Branch Crossing Drive

Station 7

July 18, 2015, form 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 7, 26722 Kuykendahl Road

Station 2

July 25, 2015, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 2, 9303 Gosling Road

Station 6

August 1, 2015, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 6, 1100 Windsor Lakes Blvd.

Station 3

August 2, 2015, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Station 3, 1522 Sawdust Road

Station 4

August 8, 2015, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Station 4, 7900 Bay Branch Road

Central Station

August 29, 2015, from 10 a.m. to noon

Central Station, 9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

WEEKLY YOUTH TENNIS CAMP

At The Woodlands Township Recreation Center

SIGN UP FOR ONE WEEK OR ALL 11 WEEKS!

Beginner and Intermediate options

Tennis instruction, fun games and friends! Cool off in Bear Branch pool. We provide snacks, crafts and instruction and you provide the tennis racket, water bottle and swim suit. Participants are grouped by age.

WHEN: June 8 to 20, 2015

Weekly on Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon

AGES: Beginners 5-12, Intermediate 8-16

WEEKLY FEE: $95 Resident, $105 Non-resident, $15 Sibling discount

FIREWORKS PROHIBITED IN THE WOODLANDS

The Woodlands Township Fire Department reminds all residents that The Woodlands Covenants strictly prohibit the sale or use of home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands. The Woodlands is situated in a beautiful forest, and with dry weather conditions, one errant spark could severely damage our community. If you feel the holidays are not the same without a firecracker or two, please come out and enjoy The Woodlands

Fourth of July Red Hot & Blue Festival at Town Green Park and along the Waterway. You will not be disappointed!

For more information, please contact The Woodlands Township Fire Department at 281-367-3444.

WATER-WISE LANDSCAPE

Looking for new ways to conserve water? Want to learn about rainwater harvesting techniques and how to build your own rain barrel? Thinking to convert a hose bib or some of your existing sprinkler heads to drip irrigation for your landscape beds?

As part of the Water Conservation Program, The Woodlands Township will offer a free Rainwater Harvesting and Drip Irrigation class on three dates this summer: May 30, June 27 and July 25, 2015, from 9 a.m. to noon. Attendees will receive all the necessary tools for simple rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation do-it-yourself projects.

Delivered through a step-by-step, hands-on approach, Montgomery County Master Gardeners Mike Mendeck, Rainwater harvesting specialist, and Jim Bundscho, irrigation specialist, will walk you through the basics of installing your own rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems. This event is not to be missed!

Due to limited space, reservations are required for the free class. For reservations, please contact the Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.org/ waterconservation to register online. The classes will be held in the multipurpose room at the Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services facility, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, 77381.

Stop mosquitoes before they fly by monitoring the yard for standing water. Empty all sources of standing water and treat areas that cannot be drained with larvicide.

DRAIN AFTER RAIN TO PREVENT MOSQUITOES

Following rain, residents are urged to check their landscape for standing water and to empty containers to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Standing water is an open invitation for female mosquitoes to lay eggs.

Drain after rain is a simple, yet critical task for homeowners to reduce mosquito populations, according to Lynne Aldrich, manager of Environmental Services Department. “We urge everyone to inspect their yard and dump out water from household containers or anything that can hold even the smallest amount of water like buckets, toys, birdbaths, plant saucers and yard art,” she says.

Water can also accumulate on spa covers, inside meter boxes, in rain gutters and around downspouts. Areas of standing water that cannot be drained should be treated with mosquito dunks or bits available at home and garden centers. The products contain bti, a biological larvicide that does not harm people, pets or fish.

Irrigation systems should not be running during and for at least seven days following heavy downpours. “An inch of water a week is best for lawn and landscape, according to the

turf experts at Texas Agrilife Extension,” Ms. Aldrich notes. Runoff from overwatering remains a major factor in the proliferation of mosquitoes in the community. Irrigation systems that do not have an operating rain sensor should be turned to manual control so the landscape is watered only when needed and no more than twice a week.

Mosquitoes are most active during summer. Ample breeding sites coupled with warm temperatures accelerate the development of mosquitoes from egg to larvae to biting adult. Eliminating mosquitoes before they fly is the most effective way to stop the insect, Ms. Aldrich explains. “When neighbors work together to control breeding sites,” she says, “we have the most success in reducing disease-carrying mosquitoes.”

When mosquitoes become a problem, the Township reminds residents to think WET: Wear repellent; Eliminate breeding sites; Treat where you cannot drain. For more information about repellents and mosquito abatement or to report mosquito concerns, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/mosquitoinfo or call Environmental Services at 281-210-3800.

SUNNY DAYZ 2015 Summer Camp

June 8 through August 21, 2015

Monday

Ages: 5 – 8 (Explorers) 9 – 12 (Adventurers)

The Woodlands Township Recreation Center 5310 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77381

$200/Week

1. Register and pay in person at 5310 Research Forest Drive or call 281-210-3950.

2. Register your child in KidCheck (go.kidcheck.com)

first day of camp.

3. Review the Sunny Dayz Camp handbook, found online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ sunnydayzcamp.

UPLIFTING WORSHIP. RELEVANT TEACHING.

A church experience your entire family will love.

At Woodlands Church we believe that church should be the best hour of your week. It should be a place where your entire family knows they are welcomed and leaves feeling encouraged. If you’re looking for a church home or just want to get more involved in the community, we i we invite you to visit us this weekend!