June 2020

PLANTING FOR POLLINATORS

RECONNECT WITH NATURE at Paddleboard Yoga

Gardening with Children

COVID-19 Continues to Affect The Woodlands Township

BRINGING HELP... PROVIDING HOPE.

YOUR CHURCH, EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK.

We’ve been a steady presence in this community for over 40 years, and we’ve found new ways to bring help and hope to you during this uncertain time.

We have increased our online presence so you can worship with us on the weekend, pray with us during the week and find meaningful Bible studies and support groups every day. In addition to our virtual presence, we are reaching out in the community by feeding the hungry and supporting the lonely and elderly. We are here for you now and we’ll be here to help and serve our community even after all of this uncertainty has passed.

2200 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

281.297.5900 | thewoodlandsumc.org

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP

2801 Technology Forest Boulevard, The Woodlands, Texas 77381

Main Line

All Offices and Departments 281-210-3800

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

Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services 8203 Millennium Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3800

Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77381 281-210-3950

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77389 281-516-7348

OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

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

Harris County Sheriff’s Office 713-221-6000

Montgomery County Constable, Precinct 3 281-364-4211

Harris County Constable, Precinct 4 281-376-3472

Water Providers

Woodlands Water (Montgomery County MUDs) 855-H20-SAVE (855-426-7283)

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

Emergency 911 For emergency

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

COVID-19 Continues to Affect The Woodlands Township

Aswe begin the month of June, we look ahead to summer and fall and what we hope will be the end of COVID-19. In the spring as The Woodlands Township and the State of Texas began to reopen the economy, the Township reopened certain amenities and recreational areas.

As the situation is constantly evolving, the following was true and current as we went to press, however we invite you to visit The Woodlands Township website at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov and to follow the Township on Facebook, Twitter and other social media channels for updated information.

In early May, the Township opened Riva Row Boat House with kayak and swan boat rentals. Township parks opened with limitations, Lake Woodlands and Lake Paloma opened, pathways and trails remained open, tennis courts opened with modifications, park restrooms opened and community gardens opened with restricted access. Additional amenities that opened include: skate spots, the archery range, kayak launches, BMX areas, bocce, horseshoe pits, pavilions, benches, BBQ pits, disc golf at Terramont Park and running/walking tracks.

Although these facilities are open, the Township encourages residents to continue to observe safe social distancing and hygiene practices. Wear a face covering whenever possible, wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer when out, avoid touching your face, and observe a 6-foot distance from anyone who is not a member of your household.

Dog Parks in The Woodlands to Remain Closed

Dog parks are unfortunately closed at this point. The parks are located in Bear Branch, Cattail, Terramont, Harper’s Landing, Tamarac and Rob Fleming parks. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), until more is learned about how this virus affects animals, treat pets as you would other human family members to protect them from a possible infection.

• Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.

• Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.

• Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.

• Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent interaction with other animals or people.

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

Graphic Designers

Cheryl Kirsch

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.

In2007, the U.S. Senate’s designation of a week in June as National Pollinator Week brought attention to the urgent issue of declining pollinator populations. Created by pollinator.org, Pollinator Week has now become a worldwide call to action to save bees, birds, butterflies, bats and beetles. Join The Woodlands Township in celebrating National Pollinator Week, June 22-28, 2020, and learn how you can help.

At the moment, 74 pollinator species reside on the federal Endangered Species list with hundreds more in significant decline. Overuse of pesticides and herbicides, habitat loss and disease are to blame. Pollinators are a vital component of a functioning ecosystem, essential to the reproduction of over 80 percent of all flowering plants, and responsible for one in every three bites of food we eat. It’s easy to see why pollinator conservation efforts are so important.

To raise awareness of this issue, the Township is hosting a week-long BioBlitz – a community effort to identify as many species as possible during National Pollinator Week. This effort provides an informal, fun opportunity for the public to learn together and share their enthusiasm for nature. The information collected contributes to a genuine scientific survey. Anyone can participate regardless of age or knowledge level.

Start by downloading the iNaturalist app onto your phone, tablet or computer. Before the BioBlitz officially begins, familiarize yourself with the app. Watch a short, simple tutorial at inaturalist.org

and then head outside, take some photos of the insects, critters and plants you encounter, and then upload the photos to iNaturalist via the app or website. iNaturalist identifies and keeps track of your observations and shares the data with scientific organizations. Now you are participating in a world-wide citizenscience effort!

To participate in The Woodlands BioBlitz, log into your iNaturalist account and under ‘Community,’ select ‘Project.’ Look for ‘The Woodlands Township BioBlitz June 2020’ and join the event.

Observations made during National

pollinator WEEK

Pollinator Week, June 22-28, 2020, will be tallied at the end of the week and shared with our community. You can make as many or as few observations as you like and from any area you wish – backyard, park or forest. However you participate, you will find that you learn something new, contribute to important scientific efforts including pollinator conservation and have fun being outdoors.

For more information on how you can celebrate National Pollinator Week, please visit www.pollinator.org or email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Virtual and in-person DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS

We’re still here for you

Even during these challenging times, Houston Methodist doctor offices are open and seeing patients who need our care. Though your appointment may not look like a typical appointment, our providers may see you via video visit, telephone or in person, when needed. Rest assured, we are taking every precaution to ensure we can safely see you and meet all your health care needs.

houstonmethodist.org/hereforyou

936.270.3333

NEW VILLAGE CHALLENGE ENCOURAGES

Planting for Pollinators

Pollinator

Gardens

provide for the basic needs of pollinators, including food, shelter, water and a chemical-free space in which to thrive.

The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department encourages Township residents to take part in the Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge by registering their landscape or garden as a Pollinator Garden and sharing what actions they have taken to protect bees, butterflies, moths and many more pollinators.

The Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge raises awareness about the importance of pollinators and how to help them, including reducing pesticides and planting native plants. Many pollinators, including monarch butterflies, have seen a significant decline in the last few decades due to overuse of pesticides and herbicides and loss of habitat. Participating in the Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge helps ensure a reliable supply of food and shelter for pollinators in The Woodlands.

Registered gardens provide for the basic needs of pollinators, including food, shelter, water and a chemical-free space in which to thrive. The registration form educates on why it’s important that you

provide each resource, like offering nectar producing plants for multiple seasons, making it a valuable resource for beginner gardeners.

Registrations received from June 1, 2020 through December 1, 2020 will be included in the 2020 Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge. Each registration earns a point for your village association. Program sponsors, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. and Project PolliNation, will contribute scholarship money to the three village associations with the most points. When you register your garden you will also receive a Plant for Pollinators window cling and a monthly pollinator e-newsletter with resources ranging from local plant sales to native planting guides.

The Garden Registration form can be found at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/plantforpollinators. Submit your completed form online or print, scan and email to enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov or mail to: The Woodlands Township Environmental Services, 8203 Millennium Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77381.

For more information about the Plant for Pollinators Village Challenge, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov or contact The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

#Township Together

The Woodlands Township is calling on residents to share any images of inspiration with the community–a photo of something seen in the neighborhood, a family project or anything with a positive message. These will be shared through the Township email updates, social media channels and on The Woodlands Township website Community Resources

Numerous resources are available in the community for support. These vary from food banks to financial assistance and much more. Please visit the link below to find more information about resources in the community related to COVID-19: http://thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/1491/ Community-Resources.

The Township’s Coronavirus Page

The Woodlands Township’s special COVID-19 information page can be found at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ covid19. This page features Montgomery and Harris County Hubs, community resources and updated COVID-19 news from the Federal Government and the CDC. This page also includes the latest news from the Township, updates from partner agencies, social distancing strategies, important links, frequently asked questions, live Twitter feeds and more.

Free Self-Screening Tool for COVID-19

Visit the self-screening tool on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Hotlines for Health

Questions And Covid-19

Montgomery County

936-523-5040

Harris County 713-634-1110

Statewide Mental Health Support Line 833-986-1919

Please stay connected to The Woodlands Township through our many communications channels. Learn more and sign up at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/stayinformed.

NATIONAL NURSES DAY • MAY 6, 2020

FLYOVER Blue Angels

In honor of National Nurses Day and to honor COVID-19 First Responders and other essential personnel, the Blue Angels flew over The Woodlands and continued its path throughout Houston as part of the America Strong collaborative salute from the U.S. Navy. Local hospitals and families celebrated the flyover and our medical professionals.

PART II

Ifadrought started this summer...

Last month, we shared what happens in our township when the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that we are in early drought stages. First, when rainfall has been below normal ranges, an area is likely to be designated as “Abnormally Dry.” But as a drought worsens, there are four stages that can be designated: Moderate, Severe, Extreme and Exceptional. For much of late 2019 and early 2020, Montgomery County has remained in “Abnormally Dry” conditions. Let’s consider what happens when a drought persists or gets worse…

Last month, we talked about Stages 1 and 2, Moderate and Severe, and the actions they prompt on the part of the primary water provider in the Township, Woodlands Water Agency, and the 10 Municipal Utility Districts that are a part of that agency, and The Woodlands Township. If water restrictions reach Stage 3 (Extreme), Woodlands Water Agency will add restrictions on landscape irrigation and ask that residents limit their water use in other areas. Additional restrictions would also be put in place, including those by The Woodlands MUD districts that operate through Woodlands Water.

In the case of Stage 3

The Woodlands Township would cease watering most common areas such as parking medians, allow pond levels to drop to 50 percent and cease planting of new trees and shrubs.

At Stage 4

All non-essential water use is prohibited, along with other actions deemed necessary by The Woodlands Water Agency to “conserve the available water supply, protect the integrity of water supply facilities, and protect and preserve public health.” Within the Township, all park watering ceases, even on turf fields. Pond levels are allowed to drop further and only maintained at a point to support aquatic life. Most water activities at parks, including pools and fountains, are ceased. As restrictions advance, washing the Township’s vehicles and pressure washing sports courts or cleaning off graffiti ceases unless harvested rainwater can be used.

You may wonder how likely it is that we will see such actions within the Township. The National Drought Mitigation Center states: “Scientists don’t know how to predict drought a month or more in advance for most locations. Predicting drought depends on the ability to forecast two fundamental

meteorological surface parameters, precipitation and temperature. From the historical record we know that climate is inherently variable. We also know that anomalies of precipitation and temperature may last from several months to several decades. How long they last depends on air-sea interactions, soil moisture and land surface processes, topography, internal dynamics and the accumulated influence of dynamically unstable synoptic weather systems at the global scale. The potential for improved drought predictions in the near future differs by region, season, and climatic regime.” So, the short answer is no one knows for sure because the weather and climate are not easily predicted.

If you were living in this area in 2010 through 2013, you experienced how bad a drought can be for the region. One way to help reduce a drought’s impact is to conserve water starting now, with actions such as replacing turf grass with more drought-tolerant native species, or installing a rainwater harvesting barrel. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/waterconservation to find helpful links to more information about drought monitoring and other topics related to water conservation. You can also email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov with your drought-related questions.

After receiving heavy rains in mid-April, the Houston area saw an improvement in drought conditions. To view the latest map, please visit the Texas Water Development Board website at twdb.texas.gov and search for the Weekly Drought Report. Drought Map courtesy of the Texas Water Development Board

Grow Butterflies

As the summer heat intensifies, we all struggle a little more to stay hydrated. Insects are no exception. Butterflies drink nectar but need to sip water from shallow puddles of moist soil, too. Unfortunately, our backyards are often home to one item that breeds many more blood-thirsty biters than butterflies: plant saucers. But, with one simple step, you can turn that saucer into a pollinator oasis while giving mosquitoes the boot.

Plant saucers, bird baths or any wide, shallow dishes at least 12” across will do. Add enough sand to the dish so that when it rains, no more than ¼” of water will stand on the surface – too little for mosquitoes to breed in. Mix in some compost or manure to give butterflies the much-needed minerals they would find in a natural puddle. Add some larger pebbles or decorative rocks to give other visiting pollinators, like bees, a place to rest on and drink without drowning.

As for those unwanted visitors, getting saucers out from under your outdoor pots is the first step to

not mosquitoes

mosquito-proofing your patio. Between hand-watering and our summer rains, saucers all-too-easily create fertile breeding grounds for mosquitoes to lay eggs. They also contribute to waterlogged soils that suffocate plant roots. Replace them with pot feet or plant stands that elevate containers and improve drainage - chances are you’ll have more than one saucer left over when you are done! Repurposing them into PolliPools is

a great way to help native butterflies instead of mosquitoes.

Find step-by-step instructions to make a PolliPool and more mosquitofighting tips on The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Blog. Visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/environment and choose Visit Our Blog. To report a mosquito problem, please call 281-210-3800 or email enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Other Emergency Resources and Partner Agencies

a weather event.

During and after a hurricane or other disaster you may not have access to electricity, Internet, cellular phone connections, pharmacies, water and ice, fuel, food or television. It is critical to assemble an Emergency Supply Kit ahead of time complete with bottled water, nonperishable food, flashlights, battery-powered or hand crank radio, important documents and more. More information can be found at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/438/Hurricane-Prep-Checklist

While you’re restocking your emergency supply kit, make sure you also have access to all of The Woodlands Township communication tools. During an emergency, the Township will utilize all methods available including e-mail, text, website updates, social media and local media outlets.

Select Your Communication Method

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

The Notify Me page of the Township website is where residents can sign up for alerts. Sign up for the weekly Talk of the Township eNewsletter, communitywide emergency alerts, press releases and more.

Follow The Woodlands Township on Social Media

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed

Social media is a critical communication tool during emergency events. Follow the official Township Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for important updates.

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK

www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship

• “Like” our Facebook page(s)

• Click the “Following” button

• Select “See First” in your news feed

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

• For Township updates: @TheTownshipTX

• For The Woodlands Express Park and Ride and Town Center Trolley updates: @TownshipTransit

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM

Information can also be accessed via the Township Instagram account @thetownshiptx

A full list of emergency resources is available at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov/emergency, along with updates from local agencies as events unfold. During an emergency, residents are encouraged to monitor a variety of partner agency websites and tune in to radio station KSTAR 99.7 FM for information specific to The Woodlands. Residents are encouraged to sign up for updates from their county in addition to The Woodlands Township updates:

• Sign up for AlertMCTX from Montgomery County 9-1-1 by visiting www.mc911.org. Register for Smart911. Go to the App Store or Google Play to sign up for the Montgomery County Community Preparedness App.

• Sign up for emergency notifications from Greater Harris County 9-1-1 Emergency Network (for Creekside Park) at www.911.org. Important updates are also sent out by Harris County; visit www.readyharris.org and click Sign Up for Alerts.

• Sign up for Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes. Visit www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/CERT for more information.

Staying informed during an emergency is an important step in helping to keep you and your family safe. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike – sign up for alerts and prepare your emergency kit and plan today.

The Woodlands Township Vision and Mission

THE WOODLANDS VISION

The Woodlands, our dynamic hometown within a natural forest, is known for its balance between man and nature. We are a thriving business community and a premier destination for visitors – a place where generations live, worship, work, learn and play. The Woodlands… …is a place where we feel safe and secure …achieves prosperity by promoting economic development and quality of life …cultivates the relationship between urban needs and George Mitchell’s vision of environmental sustainability

…provides premier services and activities, superior educational opportunities, a diversity of jobs, vibrant public spaces, integrated mobility options, public activities, cultural events and entertainment for all

…is a place that welcomes everyone from everywhere to grow and thrive

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP MISSION

We fulfill The Woodlands vision by:

· Protecting the well-being and safety of our residents, visitors and businesses

· Achieving the highest standards in service delivery

· Partnering with others to sustain the vitality of our region

· Communicating with our constituents and partners

· Attracting and retaining a talented and innovative staff

· Serving as the community’s political voice

· Powering economic growth through community investment

· Promoting continued vitality of neighborhoods and commercial areas

· Maintaining transparent governance

· Serving as financial stewards of the community’s resources

· Evolving a governance structure to meet our goals

· Promoting sound environmental policy

· Collaborating with community partners to promote public events and cultural activities

· Collaborating with community partners to improve mobility throughout The Woodlands

June 2020

Paddleboard yoga is the latest thing at Riva Row Boat House. It combines exercising, social distancing and connecting with nature. Please see the article on page 26.

Please visit the Township’s online calendar for the very latest information on Township events and cancellations regarding The Woodlands Township Board of Directors meetings, Development Standards Committee and Residential Design Review Committee Meetings, Village Meetings, The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Fourth of July and many other Township-related activities that are usually listed here.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendar

Please

The ACTION GUIDE

xas TreeVentures

Summer Events

Camps

quatics

ennis

Fitness

Enrichment

Preschool Youth

ww

Due to programming interruptions from the Coronavirus outbreak, the Summer ACTION GUIDE is posted online. With many of the events and activities changing dates and availabilities, and some cancelled or postponed, please view the link below for the most updated information.

Imagine what our real neighborhoods would be like if each of us offered, as a matter of course, just one kind word to another person.

How Is Your Neighborhood Doing?

For many of us, we are transported to another time upon hearing Fred Rogers sing, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” His message of getting to know your neighbors has diminished over the years and has been replaced by a norm for privacy; however, it has never been more important than now. As we are recovering from quarantines and stay-at-home orders, hopefully we’ve realized the importance of relationships. Perhaps you have even come to know some awesome people in your neighborhood as a result of this extended period at home.

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch encourages you to bring educational programming to your neighborhood for a meet and connect event. By scheduling one of the following programs, you and your neighbors can learn about crime prevention and fire safety initiatives from public safety professionals. Please note, COVID-19 may affect the scheduling of programs.

• Safety Meeting is a structured neighborhood meeting that introduces

the roles of public safety agencies into the neighborhood, before emergencies occur. The meeting also facilitates the first step in crime prevention, neighbor meeting neighbor. Representatives from The Woodlands Fire Department, local law enforcement and your Program Specialist participate.

• Safety Awareness Day targets a specific street or area of streets and brings services of The Woodlands Township and various public safety agencies to your neighborhood. Your neighborhood will visit with representatives from local law enforcement and The Woodlands Fire Department, sit in a fire truck or patrol car and get to know the public safety personnel who serve our community. Additionally, residents can register bicycles, receive fingerprint kits, receive crime prevention tips, 9-1-1 emergency information and learn more about The Woodlands.

• Dog Walker Watch dogs and walkers serve as extra “eyes and ears” for law enforcement. Training sessions

are held periodically throughout the community and can be scheduled to come to your neighborhood.

These educational programs give neighbors an opportunity to connect and learn valuable information about The Woodlands Township, such as

– Crime prevention strategies

– Which law enforcement agencies serve your neighborhood

– Phone numbers for emergencies and reporting suspicious activity

– How to handle door-to-door solicitors

– How to avoid crime opportunity

– And more!

It is important to know your neighbors, as living in a proactive neighborhood can increase your family’s and overall neighborhood’s safety. To learn more about Neighborhood Watch or to schedule an event in your neighborhood, please contact neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov, or call 281-210-3800. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ townshipneighborhoodwatch

Make it a beautiful day in your neighborhood!

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

College Park

We missed seeing everyone at the annual pool party in May. We also had to cancel Sundae in the Park during April and Earth Day GreenUp in March. We hope you found other worthwhile ways to get outside with your family. Some residents chose to sit in the driveway for an opportunity to see others and wave from a socially acceptable distance. Biking was also popular in College Park neighborhoods during COVID-19.

Start saving used alkaline batteries to be collected in November at the annual America Recycles event. Details are on The Woodlands Township website under Environmental Services.

College Park residents showed their commitment to water conservation by coming in first place for the WaterWise Village Challenge again this year. Residents signed pledges to turn off their sprinklers from October through April. We are pleased with the support we have received from all of you. Thank you! Remember, you must sign the pledge each year. We use the funds to provide teacher grants and college scholarship to our residents.

We cancelled our board meeting in March but were able to meet via videoconference in April. We conducted our annual planning and budget meeting that we usually do in March. Our upcoming plans include National Night Out and the Halloween Spooktacular. As plans unfold, they will be posted on our website and Facebook page.

We still have a couple of board positions available if you are looking for an opportunity to serve your community and become more involved. Please visit the College Park website at www. villageofcollegepark.com for information, news and a list of upcoming events. Sign up online for the College Park newsletter.

Submitted by Marti Meerscheidt

Panther Creek

Our prayers are with everyone in Panther Creek and across the country as we stay well, get well and look forward to the hope of moving on from COVID-19 in the near future. Kudos to all who have sheltered in place and abided by social distancing requirements, and much gratitude is due to all who have helped their neighbors or continued doing the jobs that help the rest of us to survive. Some of the lingering problems as a result of COVID-19 include hunger and a surge in fraud attempts and scams. The Woodlands Township publishes regular updates and links to a number of valuable resources, including local food pantries and fraud prevention tips, on the Township website at www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/covid19

The Panther Creek Village Association is your link to information in The Woodlands, so please keep checking with us at www.PantherCreekVillage.org and sign up for regular email updates. Currently scheduled upcoming events include the annual Flag Day picnic and swim, the Fall Flea Market, an outing to an Astros baseball game, the 3R Bazaar and much more. Please note, all of these events are subject to change or be postponed or cancelled based upon the evolving situation with COVID-19. Monthly meetings are generally held at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at The Woodlands Township building at 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard. Due to COVID-19, these meetings are currently cancelled until such time that it is deemed safe to resume meeting in person. Please visit the Panther Creek village website noted above for further information.

Submitted by Paul

ALDEN BRIDGE

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

COLLEGE PARK

CREEKSIDE PARK

GROGAN’S MILL

INDIAN SPRINGS

PANTHER CREEK

STERLING RIDGE

The Woodlands Hotels

A Message from Visit The Woodlands

The travel and tourism industry has been one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic with hotels being impacted in many ways.

According to hotel chains Hilton and Marriott, major changes are underway to ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Common changes include advanced cleaning measures, updated safety protocols, and relaxed cancellation policies at many major hotel brands. Please visit each hotel website for specifics on how each location is implementing these updates.

Here in The Woodlands, some hotels remained opened throughout the first phases of the Texas shutdown to serve

medical professionals, first responders and essential industry travel needs. The large convention hotels in The Woodlands did close but are looking forward to reopening this summer. Many amenities have been updated to ensure new safety and comfort for guests. These amenities include food and beverage outlets, pool areas, fitness centers and room service.

We are excited to share that The Woodlands Resort opened in late May and is accepting guests for staycations

and much needed pool time. The Embassy Suites, The Westin The Woodlands, and The Woodlands Waterway Marriott locations are planning to re-open in the June to July timeframe.

Information is changing daily, and Visit The Woodlands highly recommends visiting their website at www.visitthewoodlands.com for the latest list of open hotels and updates. You can also contact hotels directly for summer availability and updated safety protocols for each location.

Stay in Touch with The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Township Website

The Woodlands Township website includes press releases, department information, an events calendar, emergency resources and more.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

To prepare for an emergency, the Township encourages residents to visit the Emergency Resources page on the website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/emergency

To receive notifications from the Township during an emergency, please subscribe to Community Emergency Notifications. To receive regular notifications when news is posted to the Township website, please subscribe to Newsflash. Subscribers may receive alerts by email, text or both. Both options can be found on the Township website on the Notify Me page.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

Talk of the Township e-Newsletter

The e-newsletter is sent weekly via email and includes upcoming events, Board updates and more. During an emergency, it may be used to communicate messages to residents. Please subscribe on the Notify Me page of the website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/notifyme

Follow Us on Social Media

The Woodlands Township has multiple social media channels to follow:

• www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship

• www.facebook.com/townshipparksandrec

• www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch

• www.twitter.com/thetownshiptx

• www.twitter.com/townshiptransit

• www.instagram.com/thetownshiptx

• www.linkedin.com/company/thewoodlandstownship

The Woodlands Community Magazine

The magazine is mailed monthly to residents of The Woodlands and is posted on the Township website.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/magazine

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/stayinformed

What’s that greenish stuff on my house?

The green stuff on your house is probably algae or mildew. Algae and mildew aren’t very selective, 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. *Higher concentrations of bleach may discolor your paint.

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.

Algae is very common in The Woodlands. The airborne organism can occur on almost any building material. Power washing your house with water may help to prevent mildew and algae.

AT PADDLEBOARD YOGA!

This summer, the Riva Row Boat House is offering stand-up paddleboard (SUP) yoga classes on Lake Woodlands and The Woodlands Waterway.

Practicing yoga on a floating board may seem like an unconventional idea, but it’s not nearly as difficult as it may seem. SUP yoga students see improved flexibility, increased circulation and, as always, yoga is a great full body workout. Along with the numerous health benefits, SUP yoga is also calming, empowering and fun – and a great way to get some outdoor exercise while maintaining social distance!

The Woodlands SUP Yoga instructor Tasha Summers is a certified RYT200 teacher and SUP yoga instructor. Summers will be out on the water with the class to lead participants through each invigorating vinyasa flow session. Neither yoga nor stand-up paddleboard experience is required, and beginners are encouraged to sign up. Some dry-land instruction will occur prior to class. This program is for ages 14 and up. All participants under 16 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. As with all boat

house programs, your board, lifejacket and paddle are included in the price of registration. All classes will start from Riva Row Boat House, 2101 Riva Row, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

SUP Yoga classes are geared toward all skill levels. If you’re new, we’d love to have you! And if you love yoga already, this could be a refreshing challenge to your old routine! Come experience nature with us, enhance your focus, boost your endorphins and practice mindfulness on Lake Woodlands during a SUP yoga class. Sign up online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun or by calling 281-210-3950.

One-Hour Stand-up Paddleboard Yoga Less

paddling, more yoga!

• $25 per class

• June 3 to August 26, 2020, (each Wednesday) from 6 to 7:15 p.m.

• Class is held on the water in front of Riva Row Boat House and in the shadows of Town Green Park. Participants will get to listen to the gentle rush of the Turning Basin Fountains as they are led through this invigorating class.

Two-Hour Stand- up Paddleboard Yoga More

• $40 per class

• Saturday, June 13, 2020 , 10 a.m. to noon

• Sunday, June 28, 2020, 10 a.m. to noon

• Saturday, July 11, 2020, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Sunday, July 19, 2020, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Sunday, August 9, 2020, 9 to 11 a.m.

• Saturday, August 22, 2020, 9 to 11 a.m.

paddling, more serenity!

• Participants will paddle along the lower side of The Woodlands Waterway to Lake Woodlands near Mitchell Island (approximately 20 minutes). Class is held among the trees, wildlife and sounds of nature. Class concludes by returning to Riva Row Boat House.

Gardening with Children

The joy of gardening and the skills children learn will benefit them all of their lives.

Warmer temperatures and summer break make the outdoors a great place to enjoy new activities like gardening with the children in your family. All ages will find exciting and simple gardening opportunities that abound in your yard and inside your home. Here are a few tips to get you started with minimal supplies and minimal cost.

Get Creative

Begin by taking stock of what you have on hand. Just a few simple tools are needed to get started: a spade or trowel,

hoe and a bow rake (sometimes called a gardening rake) are particularly handy. If a tool is missing, improvise with another household item. No trowel? A large cooking or serving spoon will do just fine. Lacking a rake? Try a large cooking fork instead. Plastic milk cartons make excellent watering cans and soil scoops.

Simplify the Shopping

Most grocers stock seeds, vegetable and herb starts and potting soil. Also, reach out to your local plant retailers as many now offer online purchasing and curbside pickup.

Time to Plant

Flowers and vegetables can be planted in the landscape or in containers using soil from an existing landscape bed or commercial potting soil. If your supply of planting containers is scarce, think about what you can use from recyclables. Large plastic containers can be transformed into pots simply by punching drainage holes in the bottom. Give children the freedom to plant seeds any way they wish. The seedlings can be separated later on as a new gardening activity. When the seeds sprout, so will their joy! Make caring for a garden a regular part of your child’s daily routine. Even the youngest child will quickly learn the basic fundamentals of gardening.

Gardening Resources

Many online resources are available to support creative gardening activities with children. Here are a few that offer simple, practical ideas for growing, learning and having fun:

• Kidsgardening.org

• us.minigarden.net/11-plants-any-kidcan-grow/

• aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ kindergarden/

The Woodlands 311 is the official mobile app for The Woodlands Township. The app is a free, easy-to-use platform for community members to stay in touch with the Township.

✓ Submit Service Requests

Service requests, such as reporting broken streetlights, are easily submitted by completing a short description of the issue. Attach a photo or let your phone record the exact location to help pinpoint the problem.

✓ Track Your Requests

Track the progress of your request through the mobile app or on the Township website.

✓ Access Township Information

Use the in-app widgets to find important information about Township services, events, public facilities and more.

VACATION WATCH

Pack a sense of security for when you are out of town.

Vacation Watch allows patrol officers to check the security of your residence while you are away. If anything out of the ordinary is found, the emergency contact will be notified. The frequency of these checks will be dependent upon the call volume in your area. Active calls for service will take precedence. Go online and visit your local law enforcement to sign up for this service.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

http://www.mctxsheriff.org/divisions/ vacation_watch.php • 936- 442-7797

HARRIS COUNTY

(Village of Creekside Park )

https://www.constablepct4.com/vacationwatch-request.html • 281-376-3472

For more information, please call 281-210-3800 or email neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Fireworks Prohibited in The Woodlands Neighborhoods

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

If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it.

–WILLIAM ARTHUR WARD

JOHNCOOPER.ORG | PK-12 COLLEGE PREPARATORY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

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 © 2020. 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.

EVERYONE ON THE FRONT LINE NEEDS REFUELING.

AND THEY’RE GETTING IT. THANKS TO YOU.

Companies, individuals, restaurants, catering firms, community groups, bakeries, you name it. All kinds of Big Houston Hearts showed their support for people on the front line in this pandemic. They did it by donating food, personal protective equipment like masks and gloves—and prayers.

And they still are. So, from one group of Houston Hearts to the entire Woodlands community of hearts, Thank You.

THANKS TO YOU.

ShowUsYourHoustonHeart.org