July 2018

Now is the Time for a Career in Real Estate, Loan, Inspection or Appraisal!

If you are considering a career in real estate or any related real estate field, you need to know how fortunate you are to live in Texas. The following are reasons Texas agents and affiliates are excited about our economy:

• Texas is the #2 state for largest resident inflows! That means more houses to sell and more businesses moving into our state. U-Haul National Migration Trend Reports

• Texas housing sales rose 3.3% and average days on market are 57. Inventory levels remain historically low at 3.7 months. Recenter.tamu.edu

• Texas’ pace of job creation exceeded the nation’s for the year with an annual growth rate of 2.1%; the nation’s rate is at 1.7% Recenter.tamu.edu

• F ive cities in Texas are in Forbe’s Top 25 Best Places to Live in the U.S. The most from any state!

Champions School of Real Estate® is your choice school for a new career! We have counselors at our brick and mortar schools in every major metropolitan area of Texas to help counsel you with any question you may have. We also have online counselors and live chat for our customers

• Look at our page of testimonials from our thousands of satisfied real estate, loan officer, inspector and appraiser students! They love us! Choose to be a Champion™!

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

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.

the woodlands township board of directors

HH Happy HH Fourth of July

Nowthat summer days are here, there is no shortage of fun to be had in The Woodlands Township. We kick off the month with a spectacular Fourth of July celebration that includes the Star-Spangled Salute at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on July 3, the annual South County Fourth of July Parade, Splash Day at Township pools and the 21st Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza at multiple parks and locations throughout The Woodlands. For the complete line-up and schedule of events, please see the article on page 14. The Woodlands Township Board of Directors wishes you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July.

July is also Parks and Recreation Month in The Woodlands. With 140 parks, 14 pools, 220-plus miles of pathway, countless greenbelts, two recreation centers and two Boat Houses, The Woodlands has been designed around the concept that the natural and physical environment should enhance our daily life. In addition to the numerous outdoor spaces, The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide array of activities, classes, events and programs.

As the incorporation planning study continues, the Board asks residents to participate in the dialogue about future governance options in The Woodlands. The Township has engaged consulting firms to assist with the incorporation planning process. To fully engage feedback from Township residents, the meeting scheduled for the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. will be strictly focused on input from residents and reports from two governance consultants. Residents are invited to attend these meetings to offer input and feedback.

Please see In Case You Missed It, continued on page 5

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 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 Charlotte Blanco Cheryl Kirsch

Creative Director Lori Short

Graphic Designers Jami Davis Charlene Strine

TOWNSHIP STAFF

Director of Community Relations Nick Wolda

Editor Mary Connell

Senior Copy Editor Kacie Gurney

Copy Editor Perry Frank

Editorial Assistant Emily Wright

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.

message from the woodlands township board of directors - cont. from page 3

In Case You Missed It

Here are some recent news bullets from The Woodlands Township.

• The Woodlands Township Board of Directors recently honored Parati Competitive Rowing of The Woodlands for winning the most State Championship titles at the regatta in Austin, bringing home 12 trophies overall.

• The Woodlands Township Board of Directors awarded proclamations to The Woodlands High School Highlanders Track and Field Team as well as The Woodlands High School Lacrosse Team. This was the Highlanders’ second consecutive Class 6A state championship for Track and Field, and the first state title in program history for Lacrosse.

• The Town Center Trolleys recently expanded service to include Hughes Landing. Along with the additional stops, the Township has also partnered with the Ride Systems App to provide real-time trolley location updates to riders.

Traverse The Woodlands and BEYOND... WITH TOWNSHIP TRANSPORTATION

A recent study published by data company Inrix* found that in 2016, the average American driver spent more than 42 hours each year idling in traffic jams and road congestion. In addition to losing around $1,400 in gas, sitting in traffic wastes time and negatively impacts the environment.

The Woodlands Township offers a wide range of convenient transportation options for residents, commuters and visitors. Using Township transportation reduces the number of vehicles on the road and saves time and money, along with the other benefits of using your travel time to read, work or simply relax.

The Woodlands Express Park and Ride

The Woodlands Express service provides a comfortable, convenient and economical way to commute. The service operates Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, and destinations include the Texas Medical Center,

Greenway Plaza, as well as the Central Business District of Houston. Park and Ride tickets are available at a cost of $13 round-trip and must be purchased in advance for this service as drivers do not accept cash. Buses are filled on a first-come, first-served basis and only stop at designated locations. New this year, The Woodlands Express Park and Ride offers reverse-commuting service from Houston to jobs in The Woodlands!

The Woodlands Town Center Trolleys

The Woodlands Township recently expanded the Town Center Trolleys to include service to Hughes Landing. Residents and visitors can now enjoy free,

easy transport along the 4.1-mile route connecting The Woodlands Mall, Market Street, Town Center, The Woodlands Waterway and Hughes Landing. Trolleys arrive approximately every 10 minutes during peak operating hours around retail and office locations throughout the Town Center area. Trolleys operate seven days a week, excluding Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The Township also provides ADA Complementary Paratransit Service in conjunction with the Town Center Trolley service. New this year, riders can track the Town Center Trolley in real time on a mobile device. The Ride Systems App can be downloaded for Town Center Trolley information including estimated arrival times, location, stop information, nearby attractions, service alerts and more. The app can be downloaded for free in the Apple (IOS) or Google Play (Android) store and installed on any smartphone. After installation, select “The Woodlands Township” from the menu to begin use.

Bike-Sharing in The Woodlands

The Woodlands Township launched a bike-sharing program in partnership with Mobike, the world’s largest bikesharing platform, on January 5, 2018. Using custom-designed bikes equipped with GPS and smart-lock technology,

Mobike enables users to find a bike nearby, reserve and unlock it, all using an app on their smartphone. Bikes can be located around Town Center. Users may ride the bikes any distance in The Woodlands, but bikes must be returned to an area within the boundaries defined on the service map at the end of use. After reaching their destination within The Woodlands Township Town Center limits, users manually lock the bike, which automatically makes the bike available to the next rider. The Mobike app can be downloaded at www.mobike.com.

In addition to the Township transportation options, The Woodlands is also a bicycle-friendly community. Each year in May, in partnership with Bike The Woodlands Coalition, the community celebrates National Bike Month. The Woodlands offers more than 200 miles of pathways for residents to bike, walk, run or rollerblade.

Instead of spending time in traffic this summer, spend some time on the pathways or let someone else take the wheel on The Woodlands Express or a Town Center Trolley.

The Woodlands Township offers a variety of transportation options for the convenience of residents, visitors and commuters.

Beat the

Heat

WITH A SEASON POOL PASS!

There is no better way to cool off this summer than at one of our many different pools! Season pool passes are now available for purchase and renewal. If you don’t have your passes yet, it can be done one of the following ways:

1) Call 281-210-3950 (Bear Branch) or 281-516-7348 (Rob Fleming).

2) Visit The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

3) Visit any one of The Woodlands Township pools.

4) Go to www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/pools and follow the instructions.

For new season pool passes, pictures can be taken at the Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park or at the Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. This must be done within one week of purchasing a new pool pass by phone or online. The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.

to 9 p.m., Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park is open Monday through Thursday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Also, if you are a new pass holder and already registered in the system, you can now get your picture taken at any one of the pools. Once complete, your passes will be mailed to the address provided on your account.

RESIDENT SEASON PASS

0 - 2 years

3 - 64 years

$6

$40

Senior Ages 65 and up $15

Additional family pass* ...................$15

*In addition to purchase of four full price passes. Immediate family only.

NON-RESIDENT SEASON PASS

0 - 2 years .........................................$30

3 years and up ................................$120

No additional family discount, no additional senior discount. Season passes are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Pools are open for the regular season until August 14, 2018!

Bear Branch Pool will remain open after regular season and have post-season weekday hours of 1 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed Wednesday), from August 16 to August 31, 2018. Post-season weekend swimming will be available at nine Township pools from August 18 to September 9, 2018.

The pools are open! Beat the heat with a season pool pass at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/pools.

Our primary care doctors make your family their top priority.

Get a jump-start on the school year or sports season by scheduling annual physicals for the whole family. Our family medicine doctors provide personalized care to children, adolescents and adults, including immunizations and preventive care.

Many of our practices:

• Provide online scheduling

• Offer same-day appointments

• Are conveniently located close to work or home

• Accept most major insurance plans

IS YOUR FAMILY PREPARED FOR

Hurricane Season is here, and The Woodlands Township Board of Directors urges all residents to be prepared by planning what to do if disaster strikes.

Don’t be complacent! During a disaster you may not have access to electricity, water and ice, pharmacies, food, fuel, banks/ATM, television, internet, cellular telephone connections and convenience stores.

During an emergency, for information specific to The Woodlands, listen to K-Star Country, KVST 99.7 FM, official emergency broadcast partner of The Woodlands Township.

• Fully redundant power

• Locally owned and operated

• North Houston and Conroe coverage area

• Local news, weather and traffic

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

You may also stay informed through The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Sign up for emergency alerts, Talk of the Township eNewsletter, news releases and more at the Township site. In the event that all communications and power fail, The Woodlands Fire Department serves as an emergency communications resource. You can find out more about The Woodlands Fire Department and where the stations are located at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ firedepartment

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 nonperishable food

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First-aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

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

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

• 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

SWIM INTO SUMMER

Splash Day 2018

As you’re celebrating America’s independence this year during the Fourth of July holiday, come on out and enjoy your neighborhood pool for FREE on Splash Day, presented by Kroger!

On the Fourth of July each year, all of the pools operated by The Woodlands Township are free to the public, including the incredible Rob Fleming Aquatic Center – which just celebrated 10 years of operation on June 28, 2018. On Splash Day, pools are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., closing in time for the family to get home, get cleaned up, let the little ones rest and get back out to the parks for the Red, Hot & Blue Festival.

In addition to free admission, we will be offering light snacks and drinks donated by Kroger (while supplies last) and fun, interactive activities for the kids, like water balloon tosses, face painting, swimming relays for prizes and more! Township lifeguards have a friendly competition each year to see who can ‘win’ Splash Day. Staff decorate each pool with a unique theme – 2017’s winners were Shadowbend Pool for

Ridgewood Pool

“Circus” and Wendtwoods Pool for “Camping” – and they play games with the kids each hour from noon to 4 p.m. Volunteer judges from the community

Falconwing Pool

will be visiting each pool and voting for a winner based on overall theme, attitude, cleanliness, entertainment and community involvement.

Splash Day falls on a Wednesday this year, but the three pools normally closed on Wednesdays will be open for the fun along with all the rest. Those facilities at Bear Branch, Falconwing and Wendtwoods will close Thursday, July 5, 2018, for normal cleaning and in-service training.

If you plan on making the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center a part of your July Fourth celebration, please consider getting there by 10 a.m. Rob Fleming

rarely reaches full capacity on any other day of the year, but it is not unusual for it to hit capacity on Splash Day by about 11 a.m. and stay at capacity until after 4 p.m. Knowledgeable Woodlands residents will be in line when the pool opens at 10 a.m. to get their favorite picnic table or spot on the grass. (If that’s not quite your speed, the rest of our pools are typically calmer and not quite as crowded.)

See you at the pools!

FOURTH OF JULY

Fourth of July is a special time in The Woodlands and features a number of family-friendly events and activities. The 2018 celebration will be one to remember, so keep this handy guide nearby to plan your Independence Day fun!

JULY 3, 2018

Star-Spangled Salute at The Pavilion

This free Independence Eve spectacular, which has been a tradition at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for 28 years, features the Houston Symphony in a selection of patriotic favorites, presented by The Woodlands Development Company. Tickets are not required.

JULY 4, 2018

Fourth of July Parade

Put on your red, white and blue and get a prime viewing spot for the exciting South County Fourth of July Parade, beginning at 9 a.m. The 1.3-mile parade around The Woodlands features marching bands, fire engines, clowns, floats and more! View www.4thofjuly.org for more parade information.

Splash Day Presented by

Cool off at one of the Township’s community pools and enjoy activities from noon to 4 p.m. and free refreshments while supplies last. The lifeguards will select a special theme for each pool! All community pools will be free to residents from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

21st Annual Red, Hot and Blue Festival and Fireworks

Extravaganza Presented by

Celebrate freedom in The Woodlands with great food, live entertainment, children’s activities and family fun at multiple locations around The Woodlands! The event culminates with one of the largest fireworks displays in the Greater Houston area. Enjoy a variety of activities throughout The Woodlands at the below locations! All sites will feature live music beginning at 6 p.m. with bands playing until the Fireworks Extravaganza at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza sponsored by

Town Green Park

Town Green Park Freedom Stage - Uptown Drive (Variety)

Town Green Park Independence Stage - The Pictures Band (Variety)

Festival activities include strolling entertainers, face painters, balloon artists, inflatables, entertainment on two stages, a variety of food vendors and a Kids’ Zone featuring crafts and other family-fun games. Participants must have a wristband to enter the inflatable activities at this location. Wristbands are $10 each and good for unlimited access of the inflatables for the duration of the event. Excludes mechanical bull.

Waterway Square Willow Creek Junction (Country)

Activities include face painting, balloon artist, concessions and live music. Fourth of July Parade Awards at 7 p.m.

Northshore Park Klockwork Band (R&B/Motown/Funk/Jazz)

Activities include face painting, concessions and live music.

PLEASE NOTE: Northshore Park will be closed to vehicular traffic at 11:30 p.m. on July 3, 2018, and reopen at 5:30 a.m. on July 5, 2018. Residents should be advised that the majority of the docks at Northshore Park will be unavailable June 27 through July 5, 2018. Northshore Park will be closed from 6 to 9 a.m. on July 2, 2018, for set-up.

Rob Fleming Park Keeton Coffman (Indie)

Activities include face painting, concessions and live music. Hughes Landing Phatso (Variety)

Fireworks Launch Locations

The 18-minute Fireworks Extravaganza will take place at approximately 9:30 p.m. The primary fireworks display will be located in Lake Woodlands adjacent to Northshore Park, with secondary close-proximity (special effects) displays at Waterway Square and Town Green Park. The 2018 Fireworks Extravaganza will also feature a fireworks display near Rob Fleming Park in the Village of Creekside Park. To ensure spectators have the best fireworks visibility possible, fireworks teaser shots will be fired from all launch locations at 9, 9:10 and 9:20 p.m.

July 2018

Tuesday, July 3

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3889

Houston Symphony presents Star-Spangled Salute

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Free Event

8 p.m.

www.woodlandscenter.org

Wednesday, July 4

Independence Day Township Offices Closed

Fourth of July Parade Market Street

9 a.m.

www.4thofjuly.org

Splash Day

FREE event at all community pools

Pools open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; special activities noon to 4 p.m. 281-210-3800

Red, Hot and Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

Town Green Park, Waterway Square, Northshore Park, Rob Fleming Park and Hughes Landing

6 to 10 p.m.

www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ fourthofjuly

Thursday, July 5

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Saturday, July 7

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Sunday, July 8

Public Safety Open House

Station #4

7900 Bay Branch Drive

3 to 5 p.m.

281-210-3886

Tuesday, July 10

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Thursday, July 12

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Rock the Row

Hughes Landing

Hughes Landing Blvd. 7 to 9 p.m. 281-210-3800

Panther Creek Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Saturday, July 14

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Dive-In Movie Featuring Leap Bear Branch Pool

5200 Research Forest Drive

Doors open at 8:15 p.m.

$5 per person over 3 years of age. Season pool pass holders are admitted free.

Sunday, July 15

Public Safety Open House

Station #1

9951 Grogan’s Mill Road

3 to 5 p.m. 281-210-3883

Monday, July 16

College Park Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. 6 p.m. 281-210-3889

Grogan’s Mill Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 18

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-363-2447

Thursday, July 19

National Night Out Blood Drive Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services

8203 Millennium Forest Drive

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

281-210-3883

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Rock the Row Hughes Landing Hughes Landing Blvd.

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Senior Dance Night

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7 to 9:30 p.m.

281-516-7348

Saturday, July 21

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Public Safety Open House

Station #7

26722 Kuykendahl Road

10 a.m. to noon

281-210-3889

Monday, July 23

Season Pass Holder Appreciation Event

Rob Fleming Aquatic Center

6535 Creekside Forest Drive

4 to 7 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, July 24

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, July 25

Board of Directors Regular Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Board of Directors Planning Session

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, July 26

Rock the Row

Hughes Landing

Hughes Landing Blvd.

7 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, July 28

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

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

www.grogansmillvillage.com

Sunday, July 29

Public Safety Open House Station #3

1522 Sawdust Road

3 to 5 p.m.

281-210-3883

The Woodlands Township is currently offering Sunny Dayz summer camp through Monday, August 13, 2018, at The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park, 5310 Research Forest Drive, and through Monday, August 20, 2018 at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Camps are held from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

At both camps, campers will play gym games, go to the park, do crafts, participate in special activities, travel to The Woodlands pools for swimming and take field trips to Main Event, Sk8 Town, inSPIRE Rock, the movies and more. To view the complete summer schedule for Sunny Dayz – Bear Branch and Sunny Dayz – Rob Fleming, please see the Summer 2018 Action Guide, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/sunnydayzcamp. Camp is for boys and girls from ages 6 to 12, with a special teen camp for ages 13 to 15. Enrollment options and fees are $200 full week, $125 three-day and $50 daily options per child. Sibling discounts are available.

For more information, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ sunnydayzcamp or call The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park at 281-210-3950 or The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park at 281-516-7348.

REMINDER: HOLIDAY WASTE COLLECTION FOR FOURTH OF JULY – NO CHANGE

of trash, recycling, yard trimmings and textiles to all residents on their regularly scheduled service day, including Wednesday, July 4. There will be no interruption or delay of services during the Fourth of July holiday.

Alden Bridge

Happy Fourth of July from Alden Bridge! There’s a lot to do in The Woodlands this holiday, so take advantage of all the fun-filled activities, including the Star-Spangled Salute concert on July 3, 2018, the big parade in Town Center, Splash Day (free admission to all the community pools) and the Red, Hot & Blue Festival and fireworks display! We’ll see you there.

This month’s village association board meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, at 7 p.m. at the Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. Our speaker will be Gil Staley, CEO of The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership. Please join us for an informative update on commercial development in The Woodlands. Gil’s the man with all the information.

Don’t forget that Alden Bridge will have our annual baseball game outing to Minute Maid Park on Saturday, August 11, 2018. The Astros will play the Seattle Mariners that evening. If you’d like to join us on our bus, there may be some tickets remaining (but they go fast), so contact me at dbell7246@aol.com Tickets are $30 each, and the price includes both the game and coach transportation to and from our village center — what a deal!

We’re always looking for nominations for the monthly Yard of the Month award! Please send your candidates for best front yard in the village to info@aldenbridge.org. Our last

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGES OF THE WOODLANDS

winner as of this writing was the Davis family of N. Millport, and we’ll award the next winning yard on August 1, 2018. Keep your eyes open for great looking front yards and send us your nominations no later than July 23, 2018. Maybe the best front yard in Alden Bridge is your own yard!

Interested in more Alden Bridge news? We continue to publish our monthly electronic village newsletter. To join our subscriber list of over 900 households, please send your email address to info@aldenbridge.org. Your email address will never be shared and will be used only to disseminate news of our village. In addition, you can visit our Facebook page for additional updates.

Submitted by Darla D.

Cochran’s Crossing

Did you have a chance to welcome summer at the Shadowbend Park pool in June? We seem to be moving closer to record-breaking temperatures, and the Cochran’s Crossing Village Association board was happy to help you beat the heat.

If you are attending the Fourth of July parade, look for the Cochran’s Crossing board. The board will offer cool treats to help residents cool off while watching the parade, thanks to the innovations of Vice President Steve Perry.

As a reminder, Cochran’s Crossing residents are invited to join us for a trip to the Astros game next month. Cochran’s Crossing will be attending on August 11,

2018, when Seattle comes to town. Although Seattle is supposed to have a decent team, odds favor the Astros. The cost of the transportation and game is $50. Check out the Cochran’s Crossing website, www.cochranscrossing.com, newsletter and Facebook page for more information on the Astros trip. You can reserve your tickets by emailing Jennifer Graff at jennifermgraff@gmail.com. She will send you an address to send a check made payable to Cochran’s Crossing Village Association with the appropriate amount. Don’t be late in contacting Jennifer. Once the tickets are gone, they are gone.

We also want to welcome Jacqueline Palma as the new program specialist for Cochran’s Crossing Village Association. She will be part of the communications link between our village and The Woodlands Township.

Remember, the village association board meetings are open to all residents who are interested in community activities. Meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Township meeting rooms.

This could be an interesting and important year for governance in The Woodlands. You may have noticed planning related to potential incorporation is moving ahead. There are opportunities for the public to participate in that process. However, the village associations offer a channel for communication that should not be overlooked. In past years, Cochran’s Crossing Village Association has had Township Directors attend the village association board meetings and provide updated information as well as opportunities for question and answer sessions. Since the village association meetings are open to the public, this can bring issues of significant interest close and expand on the details that are included in news summaries. A spot on the Cochran’s Crossing agenda will be kept for current Township Directors.

Submitted by Gary Conwell

EVENTS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

College Park

Join us on July 4, 2018, as we will once again host a viewing tent (shade) for the Fourth of July parade. If you live in the villages of Windsor Hills, Grogan’s Forest or Harper’s Landing, please join us for the parade viewing at corner of Lake Woodlands and Grogan’s Mill. Please bring your own folding chair.

Thank you for joining us at the Poolooza in May. Special thanks to the families who contributed towards the 38 pounds of canned goods collected for the Montgomery County Food Bank. Additional thanks to the College Park ROTC and Major Stewart for the 13 student volunteers who helped at the event.

Fifteen residents took the handsonly CPR training. This was offered at the Poolooza as part of The Woodlands initiative to train residents to be able to respond in an emergency and save lives. The training is free and only takes 20 minutes of your time. Contact The Woodlands Neighborhood Services Department to find out where additional trainings will be or to arrange for the training at your Woodlands workplace or neighborhood.

At our May meeting we learned that the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has a new initiative to prevent crime; TAKE (your keys), LOCK (your car), CONCEAL (your things). Don’t leave anything visible in the car that invites curiosity and the resulting burglary of the vehicle.

Representatives were on hand at the May meeting to inform residents of the proposal to build an underpass at the Grogan’s Mill and Research Forest intersection. Traffic pattern projections for that intersection show that there is a need for relief, particularly for those traveling north on Grogan’s Mill to east on Research Forest. The $20 million project will be funded in part by the Houston Galveston Area Council, so resident support is needed.

Joshua Conner was the honored guest at our June meeting. This College Park High School graduate is the recipient of the $1,000 college scholarship from our Village Association.

Please visit our village 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

Creekside Park

Happy July, Creekside Park Village residents. I hope you are enjoying your summer!

The Fourth of July is the perfect time to enjoy the free events that The Woodlands and Creekside Park have to offer. It all starts on July 3, 2018, with a Star-Spangled Salute at The Pavilion, which is a free concert of favorite patriotic tunes performed by the Houston Symphony. On the Fourth of July, the day starts at 9 a.m. with the South County Fourth of July Parade through the streets of The Woodlands. Other events throughout the day include free Splash Day at all the community pools from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., festival activities and live music at Waterway Square, Northshore Park, Rob Fleming and Hughes Landing. To end the night, enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in the Houston area.

In Creekside Park, we are lucky to have events throughout the day at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park and Rob Fleming Aquatic Center, as well as our very own Fireworks Extravaganza. Grab the kids and walk, bike or drive to Rob Fleming to enjoy the fireworks! Look for details on all these activities as well as other activities in Creekside Park and The Woodlands on the village association website, www.creeksideparkvillage.com Rob Fleming Recreation Center is offering Sunny Dayz Camps this summer.

continued on next page

MEETING INFORMATION

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

CREEKSIDE PARK www.creeksideparkvillage.com

Creekside Park Village Association usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive.

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

Grogan’s Mill Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org

Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

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 home fireworks and sparklers of any kind in The Woodlands neighborhoods. 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. Why put your own property and safety, or that of your friends and neighbors at risk?

Instead, please join the celebration and enjoy The Woodlands Fourth of July Red, Hot and Blue Festival and Fireworks Spectacular at five locations throughout The Woodlands. You will not be disappointed!

Please see more information about the Fourth of July in The Woodlands on page 14.

VILLAGE NEWS – continued

Camps are offered in weekly, three-day and single day options. In addition, a new Sunny Dayz Teen Camp is being offered exclusively at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. This an extension of the Sunny Dayz Camp with activities and projects geared for teens. Look for all the summer activities and how to register for them in The Woodlands Township Summer 2018 Action Guide, www. thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ActionGuide

The village association board attends many events in The Woodlands and volunteers to help at these events in order to earn money toward our education fund for the local schools of Creekside Park. One of these events is the 3R Bazaar in November. The Bazaar is held annually to recycle items that are not eligible for curbside recycling. Each year, villages are awarded education funds from The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. based on the participation of the residents. This year’s recycling items are CD and DVD discs and jewel cases. Please start collecting up any unused CDs, DVDs and jewel cases to be collected at the 3R Bazaar for credit to our village.

Look for updates and events happening in Creekside Park and The Woodlands on our Facebook page or on at www.creeksideparkvillage.com. We look forward to seeing you at the next village association board meeting, which is open to all residents and held at The Rob Fleming Recreation Center - Creekside Park Village on the first Tuesday of the month!

Grogan’s Mill

The Grogan’s Mill board is pleased to announce our four scholarship winners: Ethan Armstrong, Andrew Parsons, Scout Vanderwal and Alexis Sparks. Each will receive $1,000 toward their college education. All are graduating seniors from College Park High School and residents of Grogan’s Mill. Ethan will be attending Lone Star College and then transfer to a four-year university to pursue a career in music education. Andrew also will

be attending Lone Star College with an interest in Physical Therapy. Scout will be attending the University of Arkansas and major in biology with a pre-med track. Alexis will be attending Prairie View A&M University to study criminal justice and education. These seniors

are exemplary student representatives of Grogan’s Mill. We wish them well in their pursuit of continuing education and future goals. As always, from the many applications we receive, it was very hard to select these four from so many qualifying applicants.

Congratulations go to Joyce and Arthur Bolinger in High Oaks for winning our June Yard of the Month and a $50 Randalls gift card. Joyce and Arthur have resided in High Oaks for more than

30 years. Their front yard is beautifully planted with large crepe myrtles, very hardy yellow chrysanthemums and coreopsis, cannas, daylilies, butterfly weed, amaryllis and blue agapanthus surrounded by beautiful rock borders.

With hot weather now the norm, there are more fresh vegetables and other “hot” goodies at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market, Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon. Grab a friend and shop our 30+ vendors. Bring your own bags to save on plastic. Check out our website at

www.grogansmill.org/fmabout or look us up on Facebook at www.facebook. com/GrogansMillVillageAssociation/. On either site you can sign up for our weekly email blast. Profits from Farmer’s Market vendor fees are returned to the community through various philanthropic contributions, school donations, scholarships and community programs.

Submitted by

Indian Springs

Julie Shafer Luman Memorial at Trace Creek Park

The Indian Springs Board would like to thank our Trace Creek neighbors for organizing and funding a memorial tree and plaque to honor the life and legacy of Julie Shafer Luman. Julie made an immense impact on the lives of so many in Indian Springs and The Woodlands by sharing her love of life and leading countless community activities. She organized annual Fourth of July parades, Easter egg hunts and holiday lighting celebrations. In addition, Julie made her home a welcoming place for children and neighbors, routinely leading neighborhood story times and star parties. She was not only a wife to Mike Luman and mother to Anna and Frank, but also an incredible light that shined and will continue to shine on her Trace Creek family.

Certified Monarch Waystation at Reedy Pond

Jason Sharer was inspired to create a public butterfly garden in our area. He has worked with The Woodlands Township and Boy Scout Troop #204 to identify a site, design a garden and select and obtain the best species of milkweed and other nectar plants for our area. Monarch caterpillars feed only on milkweed, and they also need milkweed to lay their eggs. It is currently very difficult to find native milkweed seed or plants for sale to the public. Two local area nurseries, Plantonic Friends Nursery in The Woodlands and Plants For All Seasons, off TX-249, were willing to sell

Jason a few varieties of pesticide-free milkweed seedlings/plants. The garden was planted at Reedy Pond Park in Indian Springs in two phases. In October 2017, a mix of Texas/Oklahoma wildflowers and a Palo Verde tree were planted. In March 2018, three species of milkweed were planted. In May 2018, the area was recognized by Monarch Watch as a Certified Monarch Waystation.

The monarch butterfly population has declined 80 percent during the past two decades. Texas lies directly in the migration path of the monarch butterflies between the northern US/Canada and their overwintering site in Mexico. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is currently studying whether the monarchs belong on the endangered species list. A decision is expected in June 2019.

Early conservation can turn things around for a declining species. Jason started helping on a conservation project as a citizen scientist. His group recorded

the number and height of milkweed plants and the number of eggs, instars and butterflies present in the butterfly garden at Dennis Johnston Park along the Spring Creek Greenway. The data was entered into citizen scientist databases and submitted to Journey North, Monarch Watch, Monarch Health and the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project.

As the monarchs start migrating again through Texas, they will find one more habitat in their migration path. This initiative is in line with The Woodlands Township Board’s April 2018 proclamation in support of the Monarch Butterfly Pledge to help restore the habitat for the monarch butterfly population. It will also be a nice area for the public to enjoy as well.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Last month, residents of Panther Creek started their summer fun with the annual old-fashioned neighborhood Flag Day Picnic at Ridgewood Park with U.S. flag displays, free hot dogs, hamburgers, swimming, kids’ events and the everpopular ice wagon.

This month, the opportunities roll on to have fun and learn more about The Woodlands. July starts off with the Fourth of July Parade. What would summer be without an outing to the ball park? So, on Friday, September 15, 2018, join your neighbors on a luxury custom coach ride from Panther Creek to Houston to see the World Champion Astros beat the Arizona Diamondbacks. The chauffeured ride there and back including admission to the game is only $30 per person. Tickets go fast for this wonderful trip, so call Kim Lewis at 281-292-3477 to reserve your tickets before they are all gone.

Our semi-annual Woodlands Flea Market and Garage Sale will be held again this fall. It is a wonderful Woodlands event whether you are unloading that “extra stuff” cluttering up the house or if you love to shop for

unusual items at bargain prices. Get more details at www.WoodlandsFleaMarket.org.

The Woodlands really is your hometown. There are so many ways to participate. If your street has not already held a Good Neighbor Day, this summer would be a great time to have one. Visit with your new and old neighbors and get information on water conservation, recycling, insect control and much more. Also meet your area’s sheriff’s deputies and firemen. Contact your Neighborhood Watch representative to schedule one. If you do not know your Neighborhood Watch member, now is a good time to meet them. You can find them by calling the Township at 281-210-3800. If your street doesn’t have one, maybe you could volunteer!

Soon you will get another chance to join with your neighbors at your local National Night Out Celebration. Keep checking this Woodlands Community Magazine and your Panther Creek website www.PantherCreekVillageAssociation.org for details.

Sterling Ridge

Calling all Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Pit Masters! Prepare your best sauces, spices and rubs and show off your smoking skills at our annual Sterling Ridge Village BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival where neighborhoods compete for trophies and bragging rights on Saturday, October 20, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

We rely on sponsorships from businesses for events and to provide grants to the elementary schools serving Sterling Ridge. We need your help, so that we can help more students of Sterling Ridge. For more information about 2018 Sponsorships or to sponsor either of our annual events, the Sterling Ridge Fishing Derby or the Sterling Ridge BBQ Challenge and Kids Festival, please email Ms. K. Shaw at klynda@gmail.com.

continued on page 23

LIFE JACKET TIPS FOR SUMMER SWIMMING

Every parent wants their children to be safe at the pool, so let’s talk about life jackets and floatation devices.

It is important to remember that life jackets and floatation devices do not replicate or replace knowing how to swim.

Many children wear floatation devices at the Township pools, but not all are wearing them safely or learn how to use them properly.

Use only U.S. Coast Guardapproved floatation devices

There are many products on the market for fun at the pool, but relying on water wings (inflatable armbands), kickboards or noodles for child safety is not a good idea. Water wings, in particular, tend to slip right off a child’s arms as soon as he or she jumps in, because there’s nothing holding them in place.

Ensure proper sizing and fit

Using a properly fitted life jacket is essential. A properly fitted life jacket will cause a child to float head-up and lean slightly backwards. If the life jacket drifts up over your child’s ears when they get in the water, or if they can hide their arms inside it, then it is TOO BIG, and they are in danger of falling out of it or getting into serious trouble.

No floatation devices in the deep end

Life jackets and other floatation devices are not allowed off the diving boards, main pool slides or in the deep end. Children must be able to swim on their own and unattended to use these features. To avoid injuries, parents cannot wait under the board or slide itself; they must wait either on the pool deck or on the shallow side of the rope while their child jumps or slides.

Life jackets are not a substitute for swimming lessons

Nothing can replicate or replace a child’s ability to swim well. Swimming lessons are strongly encouraged at the earliest age that you and your child are comfortable in the water. Teaching your child to swim is always better than relying on a physical swim aide.

Going on vacation? Vacation Watch is a free service that allows law enforcement patrol deputies to check the security of a residence while the homeowner is out of town. Please note: The frequency of home checks is dependent upon call volume in the area. Active calls for service will take precedent. Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, call 936-442-7797 or complete the online Vacation Watch Request. For more information, please visit www.mctxsheriff.org. Look under the Community tab.

A great way to fight crime in your neighborhood is to participate in The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program. Call John Osborne at 281-310-3800 to get started.

Last but not least, the fourth annual Sterling Ridge Fishing Derby was held on Saturday, April 21, 2018, at Pepperdale Park. Prizes were awarded to the following participants.

“Most Fish Caught” 11 and Up Tristan Dakai, 21 fish

“Most Fish Caught” 10 and Under Alexa Davis, 14 fish

“Longest Fish” 11 and Up Max Bozeman, 16-inch fish

“Longest Fish” 10 and Under Lauren Taglien, 9-inch fish

In addition to fish, turtles and tennis shoes were caught. Thanks to all volunteers, the participants and the parents.

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.

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.

*Higher concentrations of bleach may discolor your paint.

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.

for the Global Entry

and the application

is available every other Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2801 Technology

Global Entry Township offers enrollment hours for Global Entry to ease travel experience

International travelers can expedite the arrival process of entering the country with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Global Entry program, and applying for the Global Entry membership can be done at the Township Town Hall at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Enrollment in the Global Entry program takes place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every other Thursday in 2018, on the following dates: July 12 and 26, August 9 and 23, September 6 and 20, October 11 and 25, November 8, and December 6 and 20.

Global Entry allows for expedited clearance of pre-approved, low-risk travelers and is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and U.S. legal permanent residents as well as citizens of certain countries with which CBP has trusted traveler arrangements, including Argentina, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Canadian citizens and residents enrolled in NEXUS may also use the Global Entry kiosks.

More than five million Global Entry members bypass traditional inspection lines and use an automated kiosk to complete their admission to the United States. Global Entry members can take advantage of the TSA Pre✓™ program as well. For more

HOW TO SPEND

SUMMER IN THE WOODLANDS

Riva Row Boat House

Kayaking is the perfect activity to do solo, with friends and family or even your four-legged friend! Riva Row Boat House, located near Town Green Park, offers both single and tandem kayaks as well as paddle boards for rent.

INSIDER TIP: You may even hear the concert sounds of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion while out on the open water

The Woodlands Children’s Museum

With school being out, it’s the perfect time to take the kids to The Woodlands Children’s Museum, which is home to more than 15 fun, interactive exhibits designed for those seven and under. Exhibits include The Market, Dream + Build, Read-ALot Kingdom, Water Play and more. And with a full lineup of summer events, like Magic Day and Superhero Day, the kids are sure to enjoy this local favorite.

The Woodlands Resort

Take a dip and go for a poolside experience at the Forest Oasis Lazy River and Waterpark or a nighttime Movie

Under The Stars at The Woodlands Resort. Whether you are looking to be pampered, or want to play on a world-class golf course, The Resort has just what you may be looking for.

INSIDER TIP: Check their website for great summer packages and enjoy this beautiful staycation destination right here in our hometown! www.woodlandsresort.com

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing staycation, or seeking a thrill that has you venturing outdoors, The Woodlands has plenty of options.

Here are the top things to do this summer in The Woodlands.

George Mitchell Nature Preserve

Venture outdoors at the George Mitchell Nature Preserve, a 1,700-acre nature preserve nestled in the back of The Woodlands. This naturally forested area provides an escape from our commercial area and offers a shaded hiking experience which connects to almost 12,000 acres of forest and features a two-mile hiking loop and three miles of bike trails.

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Consistently ranked one of the Top 10 Amphitheaters in the world, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion has a stellar lineup of summer shows including Willie Nelson, Niall Horan, Foreigner, Imagine Dragons and the Houston Symphony for multiple performances.

INSIDER TIP: Sign the kiddos up for the Mini Maestros program for special experiences and free swag!

Waterway Nights

Of course, we can’t forget about Waterway Nights. The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department does a fabulous job putting together great events for residents. If you haven’t had the chance to attend, we recommend you bring the family out to enjoy Waterway Nights. This outdoor concert series takes place Saturday evenings in the summer at Waterway Square.

For more insider tips on The Woodlands, be sure to check out visitthewoodlands.com/blog. You’ll find the latest information on restaurant openings, upcoming events and more.

SEPTEMBER 27–30

Northshore Park in The Woodlands

Alumni Team Registration Deadline: July 5 | New Team Registration begins July 6

For more information, visit ymcadragonboat.org or call 281-681-6730.

YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.

Avoid Car Burglaries with Safety Tips FROM THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch would like to remind you to help reduce Burglary of Motor Vehicle (BMV) crimes in The Woodlands. Avoid becoming a victim and take away the opportunity for someone to take your things by following these safety tips every day!

Contact local law enforcement in The Woodlands if you see anything suspicious, such as someone loitering around parking areas, trying to open car door handles or looking in vehicles.

• Call 9-1-1 if it’s an emergency, such as a crime in progress.

• In Montgomery County, for nonemergency, call Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936-442-7797, option 3, to speak to the dispatcher.

• In Harris County, for non-emergency in the Village of Creekside Park, call

Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4, at 281-376-3472.

AT HOME

• Remove valuables from your vehicle –take items inside.

• Lock all of your vehicle doors.

• Park in your garage, if possible, and lock those doors, too.

• If you park in your driveway, install approved motion sensor lighting to alert you and your neighbors when someone is outside.

• Try to avoid parking in the street.

WHEN YOU ARE AWAY

• Remove valuables from your vehicle.

• If you can’t remove all items, hide your packages in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.

• Park in well-lit and well-travelled areas.

• Set your vehicle alarm system.

• Make a note of where you parked, or take a photo, to speed your return.

• If you call law enforcement, let the building security or property owner know what you observed.

For more tips to help prevent crime, please visit The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ neighborhoodwatch, email neighbor@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or call 281-210-3800.

Celebrate Public Safety Partnerships

The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch invites you to stop, drop and roll into your local fire station. You will learn more about upcoming National Night Out events, get an up-close look at fire apparatus, rescue units and the fire station where it all happens. Children can meet our firefighters and learn about fire safety.

Also, if you ride your bicycle to the event, The Woodlands Fire Department will be providing bike registration. Bike registration assists law enforcement in identifying the owner when bicycles are found.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Crime Prevention Unit or Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4,

will join in the fun as well. Kids of all ages can visit with deputies and see a patrol vehicle. Program specialists from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch will also be there to share information about bringing the Neighborhood Watch program to your neighborhood. Program specialists will also share ways for residents to educate and promote crime prevention right in their own neighborhoods by participating in National Night Out.

Attend an Open House at The Woodlands Fire Department

July 8 .............................. Station #4

7900 Bay Branch Dr. 3 to 5 p.m.

July 15 ............................ Station #1

9951 Grogan’s Mill Rd. 3 to 5 p.m.

July 21 ............................ Station #7

26722 Kuykendahl Rd.

10 a.m. to noon

July 29 ............................ Station #3

1522 Sawdust Rd. 3 to 5 p.m.

www.teethforkidz.com

August 4 ......................... Station #6

1100 Windsor Lake Blvd. 1 to 3 p.m.

August 5 ......................... Station #2

9303 Gosling Rd. 3 to 5 p.m.

Mark your calendars, bring your camera and don’t miss the fun!

For more information about The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch program and National Night Out, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/neighborhoodwatch.

LAWN CARE TIPS FOR JULY

July is one of the best months to find out where grass is doing well and where it isn’t. Areas with deep shade might do better with some type of shadetolerant ground cover than with turf grass. Conversely, hot spots in the yard where grass seems to die can be a great place for a shrub that loves heat and lots of sunlight.

Mowing can be problematic as well during times of high heat. Set mowers to their highest level. Mulch, don’t bag. The top third of grass blades is rich in nitrogen. Mulching the grass drops the blades back onto the lawn where they compost back into the soil. Contrary to what some believe, mulching does not cause thatch. Overwatering and over fertilizing can cause thatch, which is a buildup of dead stems and roots near the surface of the soil.

It’s important to check sprinkler systems now. Not all yellow patches are caused by fungal infections like takeall patch or large patch, nor are they all caused by chinch bugs or sod-web

worms. Some spotting is caused by poor positioning of sprinkler heads.

Control fire ants by using the Texas two-step method recommended by Texas A&M. A treatment with the organic pesticide Spinosad, followed a few days later by drenching the mound with orange oil is particularly effective on fire ants. A third step, sprinkling diatomaceous earth on the mound, will take care of stragglers.

With warmer weather, fire ants are making their appearance throughout The Woodlands. Following the Texas Two-Step (or Three-Step) method, residents can control fire ant infestations with low-toxicity, natural ingredients that will not harm wildlife, pets or humans.

Occasionally, during hot summer months, St. Augustine grass may suffer from iron chlorosis, which means that the plant is not getting enough iron. This is probably because the soil is too alkaline. Alternating yellow and green streaks running lengthwise along the grass blade is a clear indication of this. Apply an iron chelate to the lawn. Iron does stain concrete, so do not spread it across sidewalks or driveways.

In The Woodlands and in many areas of the state, water utilities employ The W.I.S.E. Guys (Woodlands Irrigation Systems Evaluations) to check their sprinkler systems. It is a free service.

TIP: Keep mower blades sharp so they make clean – not raggedcuts. Ragged cuts damage the individual grass blades and weaken the structure of the lawn.

Note: This article is provided by The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency. Please visit www.wjpa.org for more information.

KEEPING YOU AT THE TOP OF YOUR GAME

When an injury has you sidelined, the world-class team of specialists at Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine will help you get back out there faster, with:

• Expertise to treat common to complex injuries

• Latest imaging and technology

• Advanced nonsurgical treatments

• Minimally invasive procedures

• State-of-the-art physical and occupational therapy

Schedule an appointment to discuss your options with a specialist.

Locations in The Woodlands and Conroe 936.321.8000 | houstonmethodist.org/gameon

Conroe

Willowbrook

Memorial City

West Houston-Katy

The Woodlands

Bellaire

Texas Medical Center

Pearland

Sugar Land

Baytown

Clear Lake