November 2019

Veterans Day Tribute

CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS IN THE WOODLANDS

BIRDING BY BOAT

3R BAZAAR

Township Board of Directors Election

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

message from the woodlands township board of directors

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 wishes you and your family a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

TheIN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Woodlands Township Board of Directors held a special meeting to adopt the 2019 Tax Rate on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, at The Woodlands Township Town Hall, 2801 Technology Forest Boulevard in The Woodlands, Texas.

The Board of Directors took the following actions on the Regular Agenda:

• Approved the 2019 Ad Valorem Tax Rate for Maintenance and Operations at 20.86 cents per $100 of property valuation.

• Adopted the 2019 Ad Valorem Tax Rate for Debt Service at 1.54 cents per $100 of property valuation.

• The total tax rate is 22.4 cents per $100 valuation, which is the effective tax rate.

The Board of Directors recently proclaimed the month of October as Walk to School Month in The Woodlands. Walk to School Month promotes clean air, healthy kids and families, a sense of community and safe use of the community’s pathways. The Woodlands Township ranks first in Texas for registering participating schools.

The Woodlands COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

The Official Magazine of The Woodlands Township

The Woodlands Community Magazine is a monthly publication of The Woodlands Township, in partnership with Champions Printing & Publishing, Inc. It is printed and distributed free of charge to residents of The Woodlands. The printing and distribution of The Woodlands Community Magazine are supported entirely by advertising revenue. Please patronize the advertisers whenever possible, and tell them you saw their ad in this magazine and appreciate their support.

CHAMPIONS STAFF

President, Publisher James E. Callahan, Jr.

Account Executives Cheryl Kirsch Jim Callahan

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 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.

We’ve been dedicated to the care of Texas’ children since 1954.

With Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands right in your community, we’ve got you covered, from specialties like radiology, renal and sports medicine to complex inpatient and emergency care. Our focus on kids means we’re able to treat more pediatric conditions than any other hospital in the region.

It’s our specialty.

HOLIDAYS IN THE WOODLANDS

The most wonderful time of the year is around the corner and The Woodlands Township offers many opportunities to celebrate this holiday season. The variety of holiday festivities offered in The Woodlands means you will find the perfect activity for you and your family. Pre-registration for these events is required and registration on event day cannot be guaranteed unless space and supplies allow. To secure your spot, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950.

Join us for Breakfast with Santa at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. This family event will include food, holiday-themed crafts and music, and opportunities for photographs with Santa.

Looking for an evening activity? The Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt will be held at Terramont Park and The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park. Festivities will include hot cocoa,

cookies and a flashlight candy cane hunt. Make sure you bring a flashlight and camera for pictures with Santa!

Decorate pastries and holiday aprons at the North Pole Bakery at The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park or join us at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park for Milk and Cookies with Santa. The Gingerbread House Making with Santa event at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park is perfect for parents wanting to build a classic gingerbread house with their kids.

Our dogs are some of our best friends and we would never want them to be left out of the holiday fun! Feliz Navi-Dog is an opportunity for your pet to participate in the festivities with a treat hunt and holiday pooch pageant while you sip on hot cocoa.

Who says the holidays must be celebrated indoors? Jingle Boats is a kid-friendly event where you can explore Lake Woodlands by following a trail of presents beginning and ending at Riva Row Boat House. End your holiday adventure with treats and a visit with Santa. Fees include one tandem kayak and additional boats can be rented at the regular price.

If you’re looking for an outdoor activity that isn’t on the water, our Elves and Arrows event may be perfect for you. This event for archers ages nine and older will include an hour of instruction for new archers and an hour of holiday-themed archery games. Snacks and hot cocoa will be provided.

Bingo is the perfect way for family and friends to share in the holiday cheer. Join us at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park for Let it Snow Bingo Night, an exciting evening of bingo, snacks and fun that you won’t want to miss!

Jingle Boats

1 to 3 p.m.

Riva Row Boat House

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

5:30 p.m., Terramont Park

Let It Snow Bingo

6:30 to 8 p.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Breakfast with Santa

10 a.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Gingerbread House Making with Santa

1 p.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Jingle Boats

1 to 3 p.m., Riva Row Boat House

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

5:30 p.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

North Pole Bakery

1 to 2:30 p.m., The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

Feliz Navi-Dog

3 p.m., Bear Branch Dog Park

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

5:30 p.m.

Terramont Park

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

5:30 p.m.

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Breakfast with Santa

10 a.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Milk and Cookies with Santa

1 p.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Elves and Arrows

2:30 to 4:30 p.m., Rob Fleming Archery Range

Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt

5:30 p.m., The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

Some of our holiday events in 2018 sold out, so please pre-register for the events you plan to attend. If registration is full, sign up for the waitlist and you will be notified if spots free up or other holiday events are added.

Celebrate the Start of the Season at Lighting of the Doves

The Woodlands Township welcomes the holiday season at the 37th Annual Lighting of the Doves on Saturday, November 23, 2019, from 3 to 9 p.m. at Town Green Park. Lighting of the Doves is a long-standing tradition in The Woodlands that signifies the start of the community’s holiday season. The doves illuminate The Woodlands Town Center, symbolizing hope and peace for the holidays.

The Lighting of the Doves Festival features snow play areas, vendor booths, children’s activities and live performances. The festival culminates with a special appearance by Santa Claus arriving by sleigh down The Woodlands Waterway and a dazzling fireworks display at Town Green Park, weather permitting. Admission is free. Concessions and activity wristbands will be available for purchase.

This event is produced by The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department and is sponsored by Howard Hughes Corporation.

Skate into the Season at The Ice Rink

The Woodlands Township invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy ice skating this season beginning on Saturday, November 16, 2019. The 21,000-square-footmultipurpose-facility features ice skating in a main room with lighting, a state-of-the-art sound system, concessions and tables for parties. Grab your friends and get your cheer and chill on at The Ice Rink!

The Ice Rink is open daily from November 16, 2019, through January 20, 2020, and is located at 2005 Lake Robbins Drive on the northeast side of The Pavilion at the corner of Lake Robbins and Six Pines.

Table rentals and reservations are available for parties or corporate events. For rental information, reservations and other details, please contact The Ice Rink at 281-419-5630 or icerink@spectrumfcs.com

For more details and hours, please visit The Woodlands Township website, www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/icerink.

EXPERIENCE HOW THE LOVE OF CHRIST CHANGES US ALL.

Bring your family and invite some friends to one of 19 services across two campuses starting Sunday, December 22 through Christmas Eve. We offer a variety of experiences to choose from:

• Traditional candlelight worship

• Special needs family worship

• C asual/contemporary candlelight worship

• Worship for those who are grieving

• Children’s worship

We have a wonderful message for you this Christmas at The Woodlands United Methodist Church. Find our full schedule of services and events at thewoodlandsumc.org/christmas

2200 Lake Woodlands Drive | The Woodlands, TX 77380 281.297.5900 | thewoodlandsumc.org

INCORPORATION 101

UPCOMING MEETING

The December 11, 2019, meeting is scheduled to feature discussion of the initial maximum tax rate for incorporation. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at The Woodlands Township offices, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd., and is open to the public. Previously, the Board reviewed decision points for the Incorporation Study Financial Model (Non-Law Enforcement) and reviewed an update on the process for a tax rate calculator. The Board also reviewed the Law Enforcement Study completed by The Novak Consulting Group in October and reviewed potential additional financial model-related issues.

No decisions have been made, and the study is ongoing. Please visit www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com for the latest information on The Woodlands Township’s Incorporation Planning Study.

This monthly series explores the ongoing issue of incorporating The Woodlands, and the work that The Woodlands Township is currently conducting to determine if an incorporation election will be held. Whether or not The Woodlands incorporates will ultimately rest in the hands of The Woodlands voters, and so the Township is taking this time to study costs, needs, opportunities and deterrents. The Incorporation 101 series will explain the study in easy-tounderstand language. For those desiring more in-depth information, please visit www.thewoodlandsincorporationstudy.com, where there are numerous reports and presentations posted, along with FAQs. The Incorporation 101 series follows the Steps to Incorporation graphic (shown here and online).

OUTSMARTING CANCER in The Woodlands

Our nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer.

From screenings and diagnosis to the most advanced treatments, our leading cancer care is available in The Woodlands. We offer personalized guidance and support, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.

THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2019

CANDIDATES IN BALLOT ORDER

Three at-large positions on The Woodlands Township Board of Directors will be elected in the November 2019 election, designated as positions 5, 6 and 7.

Ballot positions for candidates who have filed are as follows:

POSITION #5

Rashmi Gupta

Walter Cooke

Shelley Sekula-Gibbs

POSITION #6

Alan Richel

Ann K. Snyder

Louis Granados

Tom Chumbley

POSITION #7

Bob Milner

David Cassidy

Walt Lisiewski

Andy DuBois

Each office carries a two-year term and all three positions are elected at large by voters in The Woodlands Township in both Montgomery and Harris County.

VOTING ELIGIBILITY, LOCATIONS AND HOURS FOR THE WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP VOTERS

To vote in The Woodlands Township election, you must be a registered voter in the county of your residence and a resident of The Woodlands Township. The last day to register to vote in the November 2019 election was October 7, 2019. The Township election is conducted in accordance with the county elections.

Montgomery County

For more information on voting hours and locations, or to check your voter registration in Montgomery County, visit www.MontgomeryVotes.org or call the Montgomery County Elections Office at 936-539-7843.

Harris County

For more information on voting hours and locations, or to check your voter registration in Harris County, visit www.HarrisVotes.org or call the Harris County Election Information Line at 713-755-6965.

technology. Cleaner energy. Brighter future.

As we continue to fuel our growing economy, we want to make sure our state shines bright for generations to come.

That’s why we’re installing advanced meters, building clean power generation and investing millions to enhance our power grid. We believe a more sustainable future is a brighter future for everyone. And together, we power life.

Learn more about our grid modernization investments at entergytexas.com/brightfuture.

Thanksgiving Recycling and Trash Service

observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, there will be no solid waste collection services on Thursday, November 28, 2019. Curbside service will resume on Friday, November 29, 2019. Households that usually have service Thursday and Friday will receive collection on the day following their regular service day. All services are affected—trash, recycling, yard trimmings, bulk pickup and textile recycling. Please see the chart below.

Regular collection day

Thanksgiving week collection day

Monday .......................... November 25 Monday .......................... November 25

Tuesday November 26 Tuesday November 26

Wednesday November 27 Wednesday November 27

Thursday ........................ November 28 Friday ............................. November 29

Friday November 29 Saturday November 30

Regular pickup schedule will resume Monday, December 2, 2019. For information about garbage and recycling service, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash.

Helpful Reminders

Additional Trash Bags

Affix each extra bag with a pink tag, available for purchase at local grocery stores for $1.75.

The Woodlands Recycling Center at Research Forest Drive is open on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 30, 2019, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Missed Pickup

Call Waste Management

Customer Service

800-800-5804

Unusable Textiles Recycling

Fill Simple Recycling orange bags with worn out bedding, clothes, towels and any other household textiles.

www.genesisdoctors.com

HOLIDAY SAFETY

It’snice to enjoy your time off with family at home during the holidays. While you’re enjoying the season, take a moment to implement these safety tips to ensure your family has safe and happy holidays.

• Lock the doors and windows to your home and garage. Keep the doors closed and locked even when you are home, to prevent someone from doing “holiday shopping” of their own.

• Set your alarm and make sure that your family knows how to use it. Advise visitors of what to do if they accidentally set off the alarm. If it’s new, be sure to register it with your local law enforcement agency.

• Consider adding motion sensor lights that turn on automatically when someone approaches, especially in an area where you might park a car at night. Check your other outside lighting to be sure it is working also.

• If you see or hear something suspicious happening in your area, call law enforcement at the numbers below, or call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

• Trim your shrubs and trees back to allow visibility to your home.

• Encourage your family not to open the door to solicitors or anyone they don’t know. Ask your family to speak to the person through the door, so that the person knows someone is inside.

• If older children will be home alone, make sure that they know what you want them to do in different situations and when to call 9-1-1.

• Provide family members with important numbers for their cell phones and post numbers for home phones.

• Look at your curtains and blinds from the outside (day and night) to see what others can see inside, then make adjustments, as needed.

If you decide to leave town for the holidays, don’t forget to:

• Let a trusted neighbor know how to reach you.

• Ask a trusted neighbor to pick up anything left for you at your home.

• Sign up for Vacation Watch with your law enforcement agency: In Montgomery County, visit www.mctxsheriff.org for Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Click on Vacation Watch at the bottom of

the home page and then on Submit Vacation Watch Form or call 936-442-7797, option 3. In Harris County, visit www.constablepct4.com for Harris County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4. Click on Community Involvement, Services Offered, Vacation Watch Request and choose Creekside (Woodlands) for the drop-down Subdivision Name or call 281-376-3472.

To avoid holiday fire or medical calls, here are a few holiday decorating safety tips for your home:

• Keep live trees watered.

• Keep electrical cords from being damaged.

• Avoid overloading electric circuits.

• Keep walkways clear to avoid falls.

• Extinguish lit candles when you leave the room or consider safer LED candle options.

• Keep children and pets from interacting with candles or poisonous holiday plants.

For more information, please call 281-210-3800, visit us at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/neighborhoodwatch or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

Friday, November 1

Gorilla Hole - Giant Game Night

November 2019

Thank You 2019

National Night Out Sponsors

GOLD BADGE

America’s ER

Allstate - Cortez Sitter Agency Silver Rock Productions

SILVER BADGE

H-E-B

BRONZE BADGE

Academy Sports and Outdoors

Home Depot

Associa

Karate Inc. of The Woodlands

AT&T

Kona Ice

A&W Root Beer

Liberty Mutual

Chick-fil-A

Moonlighting of The Woodlands

Dietz and Watson

BRONZE BADGE

Natural Pawz Firehouse Subs

Papa John’s Pizza Hawk Security Services

Renewal by Anderson Ring Video Doorbell

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

Genghis Grill

Benihana

Grotto

Black Walnut Café

Main Squeeze Juice Co.

Crave Cupcakes

Mark Holmes, Owner Jack in the Box

Del Frisco’s Grille Market Street

Escalante’s Tex-Mex

Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café

*For updates and additional information, please view the complete Township calendar at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/calendarofevents.

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park 5310 Research Forest Drive 7 to 9:45 p.m. 281-210-3950

Saturday, November 2

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

Drip Irrigation and Rainwater Harvesting Workshop

The Woodlands Emergency Training Center 16135 IH-45 South 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Backyard Composting Class Parks, Recreation and Environmental Services Facility 8203 Millennium Forest Drive 10 to 11 a.m. 281-210-3800

Monday, November 4

Creekside Park Village Association Meeting

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 7 p.m. 281-210-5808

Tuesday, November 5

Election Day

Wednesday, November 6

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

Thursday, November 7

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Rock the Row - Fall Series Hughes Landing 7 to 9 p.m. 281-210-3800

Sterling Ridge Village Association Meeting

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

Friday, November 8

Family Bingo Night

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive 6:30 to 8 p.m

Saturday, November 9

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

3R Bazaar at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

7 Switchbud Place

8 a.m. to noon

281-210-3800

The Woodlands Wildflower Festival Rob Fleming Park

6055 Creekside Forest Drive

10 a.m. to 2 p.m

Creekside Campout

Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

Noon to 10 a.m. on November 10

281-516-7348

Monday, November 11

Sunny Dayz Camp – Schools Out Drop In Dayz

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park

6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

The Woodlands Township Veterans Day Tribute Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Drive

4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

281-210-3800

Tuesday, November 12

Alden Bridge Village Association Meeting

Fire Station 4

7900 Bay Branch Drive

7 p.m.

281-210-3886

Indian Springs Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-5808

Wednesday, November 13

The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

11:30 a.m.

281-210-3800

Thursday, November 14

Residential Design Review Committee Meetings*

Rock the Row - Fall Series

Hughes Landing

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

Walk in the Woods – Wildlife Signatures: An Introduction to Birds of The Woodlands

Houston Advanced Research Center

8801 Gosling Road

6 to 7:30 p.m.

Friday, November 15

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

4 p.m.

281-210-3800

Gorilla Hole - Dodgeball Tournament

The Recreation Center at Bear Branch Park

5310 Research Forest Drive

7 to 9:45 p.m.

281-210-3950

Saturday, November 16

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

The Ice Rink Opening Day www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/icerink

Monday, November 18

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 p.m.

281-210-3887

Wednesday, November 20

Development Standards Committee Meetings*

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors Meeting

The Woodlands Township

2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

6 p.m.

281-210-3800

Saturday, November 23

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill

Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center

8 a.m. to noon

37th Annual Lighting of the Doves Festival

Town Green Park

2099 Lake Robbins Drive

3 to 9 p.m.

281-210-3800

Monday, November 25

Sunny Dayz Camp – Schools Out Drop In Dayz

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

281-516-7348

Tuesday, November 26

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association Meeting

The Woodlands Township 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

7 p.m.

281-210-3887

Sunny Dayz Camp – Schools Out Drop In Dayz

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

Wednesday, November 27

Sunny Dayz Camp – Schools Out Drop In Dayz

The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park 6464 Creekside Forest Drive

7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. 281-516-7348

Thursday, November 28

Township Offices Closed

No Trash and Recycling Services in observance of Holiday

YMCA Run Thru the Woods

The Woodlands

7:45 a.m. 281-681-6730

Friday, November 29

Township Offices Closed

Saturday, November 30

The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill Grogan’s Mill Village Shopping Center 8 a.m. to noon

GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE

There will be NO garbage and recycling service on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019. All services will be delayed by one day through Saturday, November 30, 2019. Regular schedule will resume on Monday, December 2, 2019. Please watch this space for information about garbage and recycling service, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/holidaytrash. See page 14.

Alden Bridge

Alden Bridge Village Association awarded Dave and Janet Haskins of South Ashley Green Yard of the Month for August (pictured). To keep up with the Alden Bridge Village Association, please visit our website at www.aldenbridge.org.

Cochran’s Crossing

We were very happy to have Representative Steve Toth at our September village association meeting. He shared updates from the latest session and reviewed highlights of several educational bills. Thank you, Representative Toth, for being at our session!

The October village association meeting concentrated on our Fall Festival planning. This is the largest event held by our association, and anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 people attend every year. This event is held annually at Shadowbend Park. A special thank you to chairperson Ginger Fray for all of her planning with our different committees.

The annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest winners will be awarded on Thursday, December 17, 2019. If you wish for your house or block to be included, be sure to have them up and ready by December 10, 2019.

Submitted by JC Harville

College Park

Township elections are this month but remember that the elections for the village association representatives are in February. Filing begins in December for positions on the Residential Design Review Committee (RDRC) and the College Park Village Association board. For filing information, please visit The Woodlands Township website in January.

We hope you have been saving your used batteries. The Village Challenge is on, and this year we are collecting alkaline batteries. These will be collected at the America Recycles Day event and 3R Bazaar on Saturday, November 9, 2019. The event will be at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market in Grogan’s Mill Shopping Center and is produced by the Township Environmental Services Department.

If you have never visited this event, make this the year to attend. There are many activities for young and old alike to get creative with recycled materials. Come away with a hand-made project. While the children are creating, adults can shop the 3R Bazaar. You can find jewelry, glassware and other items all made from recycled materials. Enjoy the Bazaar and shop at the Farmers’ Market.

Since 2009, residents of The Woodlands have reduced per person, per day water consumption from 164 gallons to 92. Be a part of this conservation effort. Take the Water-Wise Village Challenge by signing the pledge to turn off your sprinklers from October 15, 2019, through April 15, 2020. College Park residents took first place again this year. Will you help us to achieve this distinction again in 2020? Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ environment to sign up. Each pledge earns points for our village.

College Park will participate next month in the Township’s Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Village association board members plan to be out in the neighborhoods of College Park in the early part of December to find the best light display in our village. College Park includes Grogan’s Forest, Windsor Hills and Harper’s Landing. Start planning and get out your holiday decorations soon.

The College Park Village Association Board of Directors sponsors and supports many events in your neighborhood. Our monthly minutes are on the College Park website for you to review at www.villageofcollegepark.com. Board positions are available for residents interested in serving the community of College Park. Contact us or attend a monthly meeting on the third Monday of the month at the Township building at 6 p.m.

Creekside Park

Greetings Creekside Park Village residents! November is here and the Holiday Season begins…

What a great time of the year to share our wonderful village and The Woodlands with visiting family and friends. With the opening of The Ice Rink on November 16, 2019, to shopping, dining, parks and trails, there is plenty to do and enjoy with visitors. If you are traveling out of town for the holidays, don’t forget to sign up for Vacation Watch, offered by our Harris County Precinct #4 Constables. They love being visible in the area; therefore, by signing up for the Vacation Watch, while you are away, you increase the visibility of our valued constables in your area. This is a great deterrent for those who may be visiting our area for the wrong reasons. You may call 281-376-3472 or sign up online at www.constablepct4.com/ vacation-watch-request.html.

MEETING INFORMATION

Creekside Park Village continues to grow with more businesses choosing to be a part of our village. The Board has been a voice for the community; assuring we as a village, present concerns to our new neighbors, to find a balance between the conveniences we all enjoy while keeping with the aesthetics of our unique “small town feel,” walkable Creekside Green Town Center. To learn more about the happenings in the area, please join us at the Creekside Park Village Association monthly meetings, held the first Tuesday of the month, at 7 p.m., at the Rob Fleming Recreation Center.

In September, the Village Board issued our final education donation to Creekside Park Jr. High. Each year the Village Board participates, and encourages residents to participate, in Village Challenges, and we volunteer at local events to raise money for our education fund. The funds raised are distributed yearly to the four schools in Creekside Park Village, to help purchase additional items needed for the enhancement of learning for all students at the schools. Each school is awarded the same amount, with an opportunity to obtain a bonus amount with their participation in Village Challenges and volunteering at our annual Creekside Park Village Association Winter Festival and Chili Cookoff and other volunteer events. Look for more details on the festival to come; however, save the date now for Saturday, January 25, 2020.

Please sign up for our current challenge, The Woodlands Township’s Water-wise Village Challenge. This challenge brings attention to the need to conserve water during the winter months when our yards do not need the water. Creekside Park Village won this challenge last year, and was awarded $1,000 towards our fund, so let’s get

your pledges in and repeat as the winners for the coming year. For additional information on how shutting off your sprinklers for the winter months, between now and April 15, helps strengthen your grass for the summer months to come, go to www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/waterconservation and pledge to conserve water!

Look for events and village meeting information on the Creekside Park Village Association Facebook page and on our website at www.creeksideparkvillage.com. We look forward to seeing you at our next association meeting on the first Tuesday of the month unless otherwise communicated. Till next time!

Indian Springs

Dust off your reindeer, get your decorations out of the attic and fire up the auxiliary power to energize your million-bulb Christmas light strings, because it is time to don your house with enough holiday cheer to make Clark W. Griswold green with envy. Indian Springs Village Association will award the Best House and the Best Neighborhood based on an individual family’s effort and a coordinated effort by a neighborhood. In 2018, more homes and areas stepped up to the challenge and displayed an incredible amount of elfculture. Dan and Lori Parr transformed their home into “Santa’s Christmas Tree Forest” and received the Best House award. The 60 separate Christmas trees on display required over 50 painstaking hours to assemble and several storage units around the area to hold the display during the off-season. In addition, the cul-de-sac on Lansend won the Best Neighborhood award. Joe and Kimberly White coordinated with Brian Ivey and

ALDEN BRIDGE www.aldenbridge.org

Alden Bridge Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COCHRAN’S CROSSING www.cochranscrossing.com

Cochran’s Crossing Village Association usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

COLLEGE PARK www.villageofcollegepark.com

College Park Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m.*

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. See page 16.

GROGAN’S MILL www.grogansmillvillage.com

Grogan’s Mill Village Association usually meets on the third Monday of each month, 6 p.m.*

INDIAN SPRINGS www.indianspringsvillage.com

Indian Springs Village Association usually meets on the second Tuesday of each month, 7 p.m.*

PANTHER CREEK www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org Panther Creek Village Association usually meets on the second Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

STERLING RIDGE www.sterling-ridge.org

Sterling Ridge Village Association usually meets the first Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.*

*Meets at the Township, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.

Rob Haberkamp for several months to create an impressive choreographed light show.

Judging normally occurs during the second week of December, so start your over-the-top holiday projects now so you and/or your neighborhood are in the running for the annual bragging rights. Prizes for this year’s contest are still being determined, however, past prizes have included several tickets to The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center and gift cards. We look forward to witnessing the immense creativity Indian Springs residents possess. So, get your blueprints, jigsaws, glitter paint and flood lights and get moving on those Norman Rockwellinspired streetscapes.

Submitted by Michael Saucier

Panther Creek

Many Panther Creek volunteers turned out on October 19, 2019, to make the Fall Flea Market event a big success. Residents and vendors from across the

state brought thousands of bargains for Woodlands residents to browse through and buy. After the holidays, you can start thinking of the items you may wish to offer for sale and look for the date of our Spring Flea Market. For details and dates check www.woodlandsfleamarket.org.

Remember to vote in the November election! The Woodlands Township Board of Directors guides the administration of our community.

Before you know it, it will be time to start stringing those Christmas lights and putting up the decorations. It is also time again for the Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest. Every resident of the village is automatically entered. You have two categories in which to win: the Neighborhood Category and the Individual Home Category. Our expert judges will be coming by early to midDecember to marvel at your spirit and creativity. After scoring and comparing their picks, they will be awarding prizes and recognition. To give everyone a real chance, last year’s winners are not eligible to win this year.

If you are going to be gone for a few days during the upcoming holiday season, you can have the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department deputies give your home special attention while you are gone for two to 30 days. Since the program began years ago, no home on the Vacation Watch List has been broken into while the residents were gone. How often do you see a 100 percent effective anti-crime program? Way to go, deputies! Take advantage of this free service by completing the form on the Crime Prevention tab at www.mctxsheriff.org. Panther Creek Village Association invites you to join in to have your say, ask questions and participate in your community on the second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at The Woodlands Township building, 2801 Technology Forest Blvd. You can also visit us online at www.panthercreekvillageassociation.org.

Submitted by Paul Gebolys

VOLUNTEER FOR FALL EVENTS

The Woodlands Township is looking for volunteers for its various events throughout the fall season and the start of 2020. These events are a great service project for clubs and organizations! Spots fill up fast, so visit the Volunteer Opportunities page at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ volunteer to sign up today.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. If you are under the age of 16, you must be accompanied by an adult or guardian. Please email recreation@ thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov, or call The Recreation Center at 281-210-3950 with any questions.

UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

NOVEMBER 9-10, 2019

Creekside Campout

NOVEMBER 9, 2019

3R Bazaar at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market

NOVEMBER 11, 2019

The Woodlands Veterans Day Tribute

NOVEMBER 23, 2019

Lighting of the Doves

DECEMBER 2019

Various Holiday Events

DECEMBER 7 AND 14, 2019

Jingle Boats

FEBRUARY 15, 2020

Daddy Daughter Dinner Dance

Stay Prepared Even as Hurricane Season Winds Down

AsHurricane Season comes to an end on November 30, 2019, The Woodlands Township urges all residents to remain ready and stay prepared throughout the year. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ emergency for additional information and resources.

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

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

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

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

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

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Manual can opener and utensils if kit contains canned food

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

• Important family documents

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

For more information about hurricane and emergency preparedness, please call The Woodlands Township at 281-210-3800, or visit the Homeland Security website at www.ready.gov.

TOWNSHIPAccolades

National Gold Medal Award in Parks and Recreation

The Woodlands Township recently earned the 2019 National Gold Medal Award Grand Plaque for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management during the 2019 National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Annual Conference. The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA), in partnership with NRPA awarded this honor to The Woodlands Township. It is one of the most prestigious awards in the parks and recreation profession.

The Woodlands Township has won the Grand Plaque in the Class III for populations of 75,001 – 150,000 category through months of preparation and commitment to the highest level of service. The Parks and Recreation Department operates and maintains

numerous facilities and amenities including:

• Over 220 miles of hike and bike paths

• 14 community pools and five spraygrounds

• Thousands of recreational programs, including the all-new aerial adventure course, Texas TreeVentures

• More than 60 high-quality special events

• Facilitates the provisions of its services through three pillars of service – equity, conservation and health and wellness

The application process required written essays and information related to how the department is unique,

outstanding and positively impacts its community, including public support, citizen involvement, staff engagement, creativity, innovation, social equity, health and wellness, conservation, challenges faced, strategic planning and much more. The Township was in competition with Greely, Colorado; Thornton, Colorado; and Waukegan, Illinois. Agencies were judged on their ability to address the needs of those they serve through the collective energies of community members, staff and elected officials. More information is available on the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownshiptx.gov and at www.nrpa.org/goldmedal.

Congratulations to The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department team!

Lawns and Leaves

It’s going dormant and turning a little brown. Generally, that means they are going dormant. And that means shutting off your irrigation system until the spring. If you need to, you can operate it manually. However, we receive enough rainfall here in The Woodlands to offset winter lawn irrigation needs.

Fungal diseases may become apparent. You may see spots of lawn more yellow or brown than the rest of your yard. Don’t go out and buy expensive fungicides. The damage is already done and cannot be repaired until later. Mark your calendar for late February or early March to repair the damage.

Fertilizers

Do not apply fertilizer until your grass has stopped growing. If you can go for two weeks or more without mowing, then it’s time to apply fertilizer. Apply

Several things are happening to turf about now.

a relatively low nitrogen fertilizer this month. Nitrogen encourages top growth, but when the grass is dormant, we want the roots to expand, not the tops.

Now is the time to aerate and compost your lawn before winter. Take steps now to ensure your lawn is healthy and ready for spring.

This is the best time to aerate and compost your lawns. This process is most effective in the crisp fall or cool spring. As long as there hasn’t been a frost, you can still aerate, compost and fertilize.

Leaves

Deciduous trees have been regularly dropping leaves, and now you have a yard full. Fall leaves are beautiful, but they can damage your lawn if left there. You have three options for removing leaves.

1. Mulch them back into the lawn. Leaves are full of nutrients that turf grasses need. In fact, if you have a lot of leaves and choose to mulch them back into the lawn, you can cut way back on the recommended fertilizer applications.

2. Rake them and put them in green waste bags. This takes some labor and costs money and energy i.e. manufacturing the bags to hold the green waste, the fuel needed to pick them up and bring to a recycling center or composting facility and the cost of processing it.

3. Start your own backyard composting set up and compost the leaves there.

RECYCLE. SHOP. REIMAGINE.

Recycle, shop and reimagine waste with The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department at the ninth annual 3R Bazaar. Enjoy live music, shopping, artwork made from repurposed materials, kids activities and free recycling opportunities on Saturday, November 9, 2019, from 8 a.m. to noon at The Woodlands Farmer’s Market at Grogan’s Mill.

RECYCLE

Bring in select items for free recycling. Learn how you can keep our community recycling program strong by improving your recycling routine at home. Learn where to conveniently recycle odd items such as household chemicals, Styrofoam and electronics. Help your village win scholarship funds by bringing in old alkaline batteries (residents only please, no businesses).

SHOP

Receive a reusable tote, generously donated by Gullo Toyota, and shop

the Farmer’s Market and 3R Bazaar. (Remember to keep shopping with it to reduce your use of plastic bags!) Buy locally made, hand-crafted treasures made from recycled or sustainable materials.

REIMAGINE

Rethink waste when you create something from recycled materials at the Reuse Workshop booth. Join forces with the Super Recyclers, The Woodlands’ Recycling Squad, to fight contamination. Stage a super selfie with the Polymer Princess and Canned Crusader.

The 3R Bazaar is a free event brought to you by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with sponsorship from Waste Management, Gullo Dealerships, Woodlands Water Agency, Southern Shred and The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N. For more information or inquiries about being involved in next year’s event, please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/3rbazaar or call 281-210-3800.

RESIDENTIAL SHRED DAY

Secure document shredding

5 cans of food or $5 per bank box benefits

Interfaith Food Pantry

RECYCLING GUIDELINES

LISTED ITEMS ONLY 1 DAY ONLY

ALKALINE BATTERIES

Residential only, no businesses

TEXTILES

Unusable condition –Simple Recycling

EYEGLASSES

All eyeglasses and cases

ORAL CARE PRODUCTS

Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers

Celebrate the season with the annual Holiday Lighting and Decorating Contest! Each village association coordinates their own contest with support from The Woodlands Township and The Woodlands Fire Department.

To enter the contest, just decorate the outside of your home for viewing by the judges during the month of December. Please remember that winter holiday decorations and lights may be illuminated no earlier than the second Monday in November through January 15 of the following year. Seasonal displays must also be limited in scope and not become a nuisance or annoyance to the neighborhood.

There are usually two categories:

Best Home in the Village and Best Neighborhood in the Village. A neighborhood is broadly defined as a few homes located in close proximity, or an entire cul-de-sac or subdivision. Best Home prizes include a yard sign and plaque. A yard sign and other prizes are usually awarded to Best Neighborhood.

Members of each village association serve as contest judges. The selection of winners is left to the sole discretion of the judges. Please check with your village association for more details about your respective village.

Seasonal Decorations and Lighting

Seasonal displays must be limited in scope so as to not become a nuisance or annoyance to the neighborhood. Decorations and lighting may be installed no earlier than October 1 and must be removed by January 15 of the following year. Winter holiday decorations and lights may be illuminated from November 15 through January 15 of the following year. All other seasonal decorations may be displayed for a period not to exceed three weeks.

Thank you to volunteers who are committed to keeping The Woodlands clean and green. Removing litter from our greenbelts prevents pollution in our waterways, protects wildlife and keeps our community healthy and beautiful. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov for more information about the Lookout for Litter program. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/environment to volunteer.

ALDEN BRIDGE

Alison Loughlin, Real Estate Agentm, Cub Scout Pack 403, Karl Family, Niemann Neighbors, Reeder Family, Steve and Judy Easton

COCHRAN’S CROSSING

Boy Scout Troop 772, Figueredo-Weiser Family, Kimmel Family, LSC-Montgomery Mavericks, Rhoad Family, Roger Howard, The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N.

COLLEGE PARK

College Park High School HOSA, Dunseith Family

CREEKSIDE PARK

Green Corners Duo, Hawkins Family, Malatesta Family, Samaia Family, Trabue Family, Zielinski Family

GROGAN’S MILL

Scott Marzano

INDIAN SPRINGS

Andra Wilcox and Richard Nieto III, Schapiro Family, Team Hans

PANTHER CREEK

Esprit International School, Grimes-Hanlin Family, Klein Family, Oney Family for Sunuk and Koda

STERLING RIDGE

Charles and Donna Moseley, Devitt Family, Kounthapanya Family, Rohm Home

RESEARCH FOREST

Houston Advanced Research Center, Ron Keichline and Huntsman Colleagues If

holiday camps

Gobble up some fun at Sunny Dayz Thanksgiving Break Camp! The Woodlands Township will offer camp for children ages 6 to 12 years old from Monday, November 25 through Wednesday, November 27, 2019, from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive. Enrollment options and fees are $125 for 3 days and $50 daily per child. Please note that camp closes at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, November 27, 2019.

Once Thanksgiving Break ends, your kids will have “snow” much fun at our Sunny Dayz Holiday Break Camp! Holiday Break Camp will also be held at The Recreation Center at Rob Fleming Park, and enrollment fees are $50 daily. Sibling discounts are available for both camps. Campers at both camps will enjoy fun-filled games, activities and field trips! Holiday Camp dates are as follows:

December 19, 20, 26, 27, 30 and 31, 2019

(Please note, camp closes at 3 p.m. on December 31.)

January 2, 3, 6 and 7, 2020

To register, please call 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950, or email us at recreation@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.

Spend

HOLIDAY SAFET Y

It’sa great time to be out shopping and picking out those special gifts.

Before you head out the door for your holiday shopping spree, try following these tips from The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Watch.

• Remove valuables from your purse or wallet that you won’t need.

• Leave your Social Security card, passport, extra credit cards and other valuables in a safe place at home; only take the credit cards and cash you will need.

• Remove valuables from your vehicle. If you must take something with you, such as a return, be sure to hide it before you get there.

• Make sure your vehicle is running well, has gas and safe tires.

• Avoid distracted driving.

- Avoid driving without adequate sleep.

- Avoid being impaired by medications or alcohol while driving.

- Avoid texting and driving; it’s against the law.

- Avoid using your cell phone; it can be distracting and is illegal under certain circumstances. (For more safe driving information, please visit the Back to School Safety article in the September 2019 issue of The Woodlands Community Magazine.)

- Set up your mapping system before you drive and have a general idea of where you are going before you leave.

• Park in a well-lit parking lot, if you might be out past dark.

• Lock your vehicle and set your alarm.

• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when walking in and out of the store and while shopping.

• Keep closed purses and wallets with you – not in your cart!

• Keep an eye on your children and have a family meeting place. If you get separated, ask for assistance right away as most stores have a plan in place to find lost children.

• If you are driving to another store, be sure to hide any packages before you leave the current store.

• On your way home or after leaving a bank, check your rearview mirror to be sure that you aren’t being followed.

• When you arrive home, bring your items inside, lock up and enjoy your day!

If you decide to shop online, try these safety tips:

• Keep your security software up to date.

• Shop from websites that you know or have verified their encryption and safety standards.

• Make sure you understand their return policy.

• Use secure sites with “https” in the URL when paying.

• Try using a gift card for websites that you aren’t familiar with or don’t visit regularly.

• Keep copies of your receipts.

For more information, please call 281-210-3800, visit us at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/neighborhoodwatch or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/townshipneighborhoodwatch.

BiRDING by boat

Birdwatching (or birding) is great as a recreational activity or citizen science for any season, but especially in the fall. Birding is a great way to get outside and explore your community in a new way because The Woodlands is home to many species of interesting birds. But while you can birdwatch from nearly anywhere, a unique and fun way to see many birds around Lake Woodlands is by boat.

To that end, this month the Riva Row Boat House is offering a new guided kayak birdwatching program! The program will be led by a local birder, with one morning and one afternoon session this fall and more dates to come next spring. The first session will be on Saturday, November 9, 2019, from 7 to 8:30 a.m. The afternoon session will be Sunday, November 10, 2019, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The fee for this program is structured by boat, not by person, and

includes a tandem (two-person) kayak. So bring a friend! Residents of The Woodlands can join us on either date for just $30; or if you would like to register for both sessions, the fee will be $50. Small fee increases exist for non-residents. Whether you’re a seasoned birder eager to share your knowledge with others or someone who just wants to know more about the birds with whom we share this community, all birding skill levels are welcome in this program; no expertise required. Ages 12 and up, please.

Species we may get to observe during the Birding by Boat program include bald eagles, herons, egrets, mockingbirds, cardinals, blue jays, mallards, cormorants, hawks, woodpeckers and more! Wildlife is, of course, unpredictable. Not all birds listed here will be seen. Dress for the weather, bring some water and binoculars and be ready for an adventure!

As always, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard from either Riva Row Boat House or Lakes Edge Boat House and go out birding on your own - as well as search for other types of wildlife in, around and above the lake. If you’re new to birding, some highly recommended equipment is a good pair of trusty binoculars and a field guide. But you don’t need these items to get outside and observe the many amazing birds in our beautiful community.

As with any visit to the boat houses, all participants must sign a waiver before getting out on the water. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx. gov/rivarowboathouse to complete a waiver. To register for this program, please call 281-210-3950, or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/ signupforfun We look forward to birding with you this month!

November is a time of the year when people stop to think about what they have to be thankful for in their lives, and 2019 has given the Texas TreeVentures team many reasons to be thankful! Since our grand opening in April 2019, more than 5,000 people have experienced what we have to offer, and the year isn’t over yet. With packages such as birthday parties, corporate events, groups and programs, Texas TreeVentures is a TREEmendous place to take your friends and family!

We have special holiday openings. Book a climb this Thanksgiving break any time during the week, as we’ll be open every day except for Thanksgiving Day (November 28, 2019)! Check our website, www.texastreeventures.com, for times. If you’re making plans for winter break this year, why not include a climb? We will have adjusted openings for winter break as well, so plan a trip now!

Special events at Texas TreeVentures give us the ability to offer new and exciting packages and themed days that we don’t offer all the time! Our monthly event, Sunset & S’mores, is coming up on December 6, 2019. Pre-registration is required. Night climbs are soon to be a new addition to our program roster, so check online to see when they will be offered! There will be additional youth requirements, and some variations on this program will require an age minimum of 13 years. We look forward to seeing you reach new heights at Texas TreeVentures this holiday season. Texas

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

THE SUPER GENERATION

You may have noticed a flurry of orange, white and black moving through The Woodlands the past few weeks. Monarchs are on the move and southeast Texas is right in middle of their coastal flyway. While more concentrated numbers can be viewed along the central flyway, stretching from Eagle Pass to Wichita Falls, monarchs traveling along the eastern half of the country will funnel through our region on their way to wintering in Mexico. Resting on a branch in the park or feeding on nectar in your garden, there are hundreds of thousands of monarchs traveling through town right now.

These fourth-generation butterflies, known as the ‘super generation’ are descendants of monarchs that made this same journey last year. Suspending reproductive abilities, the super generation generates enough energy to make the voyage. Guided by an invisible force, they travel nearly 2,000 miles to their wintering grounds in the oyamel

firs of central Mexico where they will hibernate until spring. When it’s warm enough, they begin the migration north where they will produce a new generation to continue the cycle.

Unfortunately, their ability to cover thousands of miles in a few months is not enough to ensure their survival. The monarch population has seen a significant decline over the past few decades. A number of factors are to blame, including pesticide and herbicide use, disease and deforestation of their wintering grounds. Loss of milkweed, the only plant that monarchs will lay eggs on and their caterpillars will eat, is one of the biggest culprits. Fortunately, milkweed is also one factor that each of us can do something about that can help.

If you appreciate the wonder and beauty of the monarch, join The Woodlands Township’s Plant for Pollinators program, a communitywide effort to support monarchs and all pollinators and plant some

native milkweed. The Township’s Environmental Services Department has partnered with Nature’s Way Resources, Alspaugh’s Ace Hardware and The Heartwood Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists to distribute nearly 13,000 native milkweed plants throughout the community. Fall is the perfect time to plant milkweed, ensuring it’s ready for the monarch’s return in the spring. If you’re interested in receiving milkweed for your yard, community garden, school or business, please contact enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or call 281-210-3800.