The Woodlands Community Update

The Woodlands TX, Community Update – December 17th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on December 18, 2009

Thanks to The Woodlands Development Company for keeping us all updated.

Happy Holidays.

The Woodlands Development Company Presents Donation to Texas Children’s Cancer Center

The Woodlands Development Company Presents Donation to Texas Children's Cancer CenterThe Woodlands Development Company (TWDC) recently presented a $1,720 check to Texas Children’s Cancer Center. The company donated the proceeds from concession sales at theMay Valley Turkey Trot, a special event held in The Woodlands’ Village of Sterling Ridge on November 14. The Turkey Trot commemorated the opening of the new May Valley Park, and included a tour of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA) Benefit Home (top photograph) in May Valley.

“The Turkey Trot was a fun, family-oriented event with a Thanksgiving theme,” said Susan Vreeland-Wendt, director of marketing for TWDC. “ In the spirit of giving thanks, we chose to donate the proceeds from the food sales to Texas Children’s Cancer Center, one of the 2009 GHBA Benefit Home Charities.” TWDC also donated the land for the GHBA Benefit Home in May Valley. The home was built by Trendmaker.

In the photo are (from left to right): Buck Driggers, vice president of residential sales and development for TWDC; Lorrie Parise, marketing manager for TWDC; Susan Vreeland-Wendt; Kelly Cliburn, development director for Texas Children’s Cancer Center; Don Klein, chairman of the GHBA Benefit Homes Project; and Tim Welbes, president of TWDC.

For more information about the GHBA Benefit Homes Project, call the GHBA at 281-970-8970 or visitwww.ghba.org.


Only December Remains to Take Advantage of “Come Home for the Holidays”

Only December Remains to Take Advantage of 67 families have registered; 43 contracts have been signed; and 12 homes have closed so far as part of The Woodlands’ “Come Home for the Holidays” Celebration. “Come Home for the Holidays” offers buyers of selected new homes in the community a $2,000 Woodforest National Bank MasterCardif they purchase between October 31, 2009 and December 31, 2009 and close by February 28, 2010.

“Come Home for the Holidays” also offers incentives from nearly all of the homebuilders active in The Woodlands. The homes designated in the program range in price from the $150,000’s to more than $3 million. In addition, the buyer will receive their choice of either a free one-year family membership to the South Montgomery County YMCA or free initiation fee and two months free dues to Canongate Golf Clubs..

Pictured is Village Builders’ model in the neighborhood of Vershire in May Valley in the Village of Sterling Ridge. Village Builder is offering a $15,000 discount on selected new homes in the “Come Home for the Holidays” program.

Home shoppers are being directed to The Woodlands Homefinder Center, where they can register for the program before visiting the sales offices. After the home closing, the buyer should notify the Homefinder Center and make arrangements to redeem their $2,000 MasterCard and YMCA or Canongate gift certificate by March 31, 2010.

The Woodlands Custom Homes Hosts Open House

The Woodlands Custom Homes Hosts Open HouseThe Woodlands Custom Homes is hosting an Open House on Sunday, December 20 from 10 am – 2 pm in the Village of Sterling Ridge. The following two homes will be open in the neighborhood of Kirkpatrick Glen:

18 E. Loftwood (pictured)
Meadowlark Homes

5,335 square feet
5 bedrooms, 5-2/2 baths, 3-car garage
$899,000

Mediterranean style, stucco and stone; numerous built-ins and loaded with crown and trim; and Thermador appliance package includes triple stack oven with warming drawer.

19 E. Loftwood
T.D. Cox Homes

4,939 square feet
5 bedrooms, 5-1/2 baths, 3-car garage
$998,900

Mediterranean style, stucco and stone overlooking the Gary Player Signature golf course; downstairs media room down; and tankless hot water heater.

For more information, call Robyn Brand @ 832-928-4142  or visit www.TheWoodlandsCustomHomesOnline.com.

Holiday Hours for The Woodlands Homefinder Center

Holiday Hours for The Woodlands Homefinder CenterThe Woodlands Homefinder Center will be open on Christmas Eve, December 24, from 9 am – 1 pm and be closed on Christmas Day. The Homefinder Center will reopen on Saturday, December 26 from 12 noon until 5 pm. Regular hours from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm will resume on Sunday, December 27.

On New Year’s Eve, January 31, the Homefinder Center will be open from 9 am – 2 pm and be closed on New Year’s Day. On Saturday, January 2, the Homefinder Center will reopen from 12 noon until 5 pm. Regular hours from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm will resume on Sunday, January 3.

…And Speaking of the Village Holiday Carnival, $1,000 Shopping Spree Winners Announced

…And Speaking of the Village Holiday Carnival, $1,000 Shopping Spree Winners AnnouncedRinging in the holiday season is Ider (right) and his wife Maricela Ribadeneira (center), residents of the Village of Sterling Ridge and grand prize winners of the $1,000 shopping spree to Alden Bridge Village Center. Ider Ribadeneira’s name was randomly drawn at the recent Village Holiday Carnival at Alden Bridge Village Center. Congratulating the happy couple isLorrie Parise (left), marketing manager for The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC).

The Village Holiday Carnival was sponsored by the merchants of Alden Bridge Village Center and TWDC.

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The Woodlands Community Update – September 10th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on September 11, 2009

DR Horton Model Homes Now Open in May Valley

Popular homebuilder DR Horton has returned to The Woodlands with new homes in the neighborhood of Hawkhurst in the new 400-acre area of May Valley. Situated within the Village of Sterling Ridge, May Valley will feature its own 9-acre park, opening this November, with playgrounds, pavilion, lighted basketball and tennis courts, and a playfield. DR Horton’s homes in Hawkhurst range in size from approximately 1,800 – 2,200 square feet and feature three or four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, formal dining rooms, large master suites, and upstairs gamerooms. The homes are priced from the $190’s – $220’s. To find out more about DR Horton in Hawkhurst, call Maria Dorman at 713-206-5532 or send e-mail to mdorman@drhorton.com.

DR Horton is also building larger homes (2,629 – 3,595 square feet) in the neighborhood of Golden Orchard in May Valley, priced from the $330’s – $390’s.

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors’® Woodlands Research Office Earns National Award

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors’ Woodlands Research office recently received a first place award from Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., lauding them for being Top Producers in the Southern Region of the U.S. The award for the second quarter of 2009 honors the office in the category of “Top Three Offices with a minimum of 41 sales professionals and a maximum of 75 sales professionals in the U.S. Southern region – for Residential gross commission income.”

Ken Brand (pictured), manager of the office, said the team’s sales and communication tactics proved their best asset as it drew in homebuyers even as the economy took a downward swing. While the Houston and The Woodlands home markets have remained relatively healthy compared to the rest of the country, Brand said consumers are still leery about selling a home.

“What consumers are doing more than ever is choosing to work with people who follow up more, have the best marketing tools, are Internet-savvy, and understand how to sell a home in a challenging market,” Brand said. He said that his office decided as a team to “work harder, work smarter and follow up more.” Staying in close contact with people helped alleviate worries about how their property was faring on the market, and social media was a boon to renewed communication efforts. “We make a conscious effort to stay in touch and keep clients in the loop,” Brand said.

Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors®’ Woodlands Research office can be reached at 281-367-3531.

The Woodlands Custom Homes Hosting Three Open Houses This Weekend

A new patio home by T.D. Cox Homes, LLC in the Village of Cochran’s Crossing, a Marshall & O’Connor home near the Gary Player Signature golf course, and a traditional home by Leigh Custom Homes on the Player course will be open for touring this Sunday, September 13. These three homes are complete and ready for move-in. Here are the details:

19 Aberdeen Crossing
Neighborhood of Somerset, Village of Cochran’s Crossing
T.D. Cox Homes, LLC
3,258 square-foot patio home
Two bedrooms down, third bedroom and loft up
$562,000
Open Sunday, September 13, 1 – 4 pm

2 Harmony Links
Near the Gary Player Signature golf course in Sterling Ridge
Marshall & O’Connor Building
4,836 square feet
5 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, three-car garage, wraps around corner lot
$982,700
Open Sunday, September 13, 2 – 5 pm

62 W. Double Green
On the Gary Player Signature golf course in Sterling Ridge
Leigh Custom Homes, Inc.
5,810 square feet
5 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, four-car garage, separate guest suite
Generous pool allowance
$1,330,000
Open Sunday, September 13, 2 – 4 pm

For more information, contact Robyn Brand at The Woodlands Custom Homes at 281-367-4550.

The Woodlands’ Entries Win Golden Trowel Honor Award

The two main entries into The Woodlands’ newest village, Creekside Park, have been awarded the Golden Trowel Honor Award by the Houston Chapter of the Associated Masonry Contractors.

The main entry into the village off Gosling Road bears the name The Woodlands on a curved stone wall surrounded by natural landscaping on the west side of Gosling, with another curved wall on the east side of the roadway. Four bronze deer sculptures – one buck on the west side and three doe on the east side – accent the walls, and appear to be feeding on the tall grasses surrounding them. The sculptures were created by Edd Hayes, and are the “signature” pieces at each of The Woodlands’ main entries.

From the entrance on Gosling Road, one enters the village along Creekside Forest Drive. At the roundabout, there is a 268-foot-long curved wall of river rock that identifies Creekside Park. Two stone blocks etched with the Creekside Park logo, which resembles a woodcut of water and trees, are mounted into the outer edges of the rock wall. Native trees and plantings including loblolly pine, Mexican sycamore, Mexican plum and water oaks surround the wall.

Pictured at the main entry into the village are, from left to right: Tim Welbes, Co-President of The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC); Paul Hoggatt of Hogatt L.P., General Contractor; David Smith of SLA Studio Land, designer; Robert Heineman, Vice President of Planning for TWDC; and Alex Sutton, Co-President of TWDC.

The Third Annual Creekside Campout is coming up at Rob Fleming Park in October. This fun, family campout begins at 2 pm on Saturday, October 3 until Sunday morning, October 4 at 9 am. Sign up now, space is limited. Get the complete details at www.thewoodlandsassociations.org.

Two free, family-oriented programs – Summer Nights, Waterway Lights and Arts in the Park – are ongoing this month. Summer Nights, Waterway Lights, a series of live entertainment at Waterway Square®, continues Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 – 8 pm through September 19. For details, visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com. Arts in the Park brings local artists and craftsmen along with live entertainment to Rob Fleming Park in the Village of Creekside Park every Saturday in September from 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Visit www.thewoodlandsassociations.org for a schedule of events.

A total of 693 families have purchased homes in The Woodlands’ newest village, Creekside Park. The Creekside Park Village Association has just been established.

Thank You Woodlands Development Company for providing these weekly updates.

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Community Update For The Woodlands TX – September 27th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on August 28, 2009

Innerwoods Features Village Builders’ Townhomes from the $190′s

Village Builders presents its Lodges Collection of luxury townhomes, priced from the $190’s to the $250’s, in the neighborhood of Innerwoods in the Village of Sterling Ridge. Seven homes are ready for move-in with special incentives currently being offered. The Townhomes at Innerwoods Place are two-story residences, ranging in size from approximately 1,589 to 2,171 square feet, and including three to four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and a two-car attached garage in the rear of the home. A study, formal dining room, upstairs game room and rear covered patio are offered in some plans.

Pictured is the Aspen design, a 2,171-square-foot, two-story townhome that includes three bedrooms, media room, game room, open kitchen with great room and dining room, two-and-a-half baths and an attached two-car garage in the rear of the home. This design is priced from $228,990.

Ceramic tile floors in the entry, kitchen, breakfast, laundry and all bathrooms are standard features. Other interior features include crown molding in the entry and dining room; nine-foot ceilings; ceiling fans with a light kit in all bedrooms, game room, family room and study; and a GE Stainless Steel package in the kitchen. Upgrades are available through Village Builders’ Design Studio.

Exterior features include a landscape package with full sod; sprinkler system; bricked front porch; mahogany front door with leaded glass insert; and deadbolt locks for exterior doors. Village Builders is an Energy Star Builder, following the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star guidelines.

For more information about Village Builders’ Lodges Collection in Innerwoods, call 281-367-3531.

Custom Neighborhoods on the Player Course to be Highlighted in This Weekend’s Open House

Five spectacular custom residences will be open for touring this weekend in the neighborhoods of Kirkpatrick Glen, Player Bend and Player Crest, bordering the Gary Player Signature golf course in the Village of Sterling Ridge. Pictured is the expansive Traditional style brick home by Hahnfeld-Witmer-Davis located at 35 Player Bend on the Player golf course. Featuring 7,070 square feet of living space with five bedrooms, five full baths and two half baths, a four-car garage and a large back yard with wrought iron fencing overlooking the golf course, this home is priced at $1,750,000. It will be open this Sunday, August 30 from 2 – 4 pm.

For a complete list of addresses, dates and times for this weekend’s Open House, visit http://www.thewoodlandscustomhomesonline.com or call 281-367-4550.

Stephen Hann Elected Life Director of NAHB

Stephen Hann, a custom homebuilder active in The Woodlands, was recently elected a Life Director of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) at the association’s Spring Board of Directors Meeting in Washington, D.C. Hann has been on the NAHB Board of Directors for the past 10 years. He is pictured with Lisa Clark, President of the Greater Houston Builder’s Association (GHBA).

Hann is the President of Hann Builders in Houston, a full service, design/build custom builder and remodeler. The company has been in business since 1993 and besides numerous awards over the years it was named NAHB’s Custom Builder of the Year for 2008. Stephen Hann is also active in the Houston community through his work with the Boy Scouts of America, Child Advocates of Fort Bend County, and the Lakewood Church.

Updated Guide to New Homes Available on Friday

The most recent version of The Woodlands’ Guide to New Homes will be available on Friday, August 28 at The Homefinder Center at 2000 Woodlands Parkway. Agents please stop by and pick up your free Guide; relax with some Starbucks Coffee®; enjoy fresh baked cookies from Hubbell and Hudson on the weekends from Friday through Sunday; and check your emails with the free WiFi service available at the Homefinder Center.

Eminence Fine Furniture Store to Open at Market Street

Eminence, a local fine furnishings retailer specializing in handcrafted furniture and imported art and antiques, has leased 1,490 square feet of retail space at Market Street-The Woodlands. A grand opening celebration and special discounts will take place later this month.

Located next to Sur la Table in Market Street’s north commons building, this home furnishings store will give customers an adventurous approach to home décor by featuring an ever-changing selection of imported home furnishings from over 30 different countries. Eminence also specializes in custom-made furniture and provides in-home decorating assistance to all customers. Real estate professionals and interior designers are given generous discounts and on the first Monday of each month, the store will close its doors to the general public and offer a private viewing of new and unique items to its preferred customers.

For a complete list of stores and more information on upcoming events at Market Street, visit http://www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com.

Summer Nights, Waterway Lights Family Fun Continues Fridays and Saturdays Through September 19

Kids and parents are enjoying the festivities on Friday and Saturday evenings, when “Summer Nights, Waterway Lights” brings face painters, jugglers, mimes and caricature artists to Waterway Square for family fun. This Friday, August 28, enjoy the antics of a mime and a trick roper and on Saturday, August 29, entertainment will feature a juggler, face painter and guitar duo. It’s all free and fun for all ages!

Parking is available at 24 Waterway Parking Garage and the corner lot at Timberloch Place and Waterway Avenue for a minimal cost. Call 281-210-3950 or visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com for more information.

Mark your calendars now for October 12 -18, when the Administaff Small Business Classic returns to The Woodlands Country Club’s Tournament Course. This popular PGA Champions Tour event features some of the most well-known golfers in the world, including 2008 returning champion, Bernhard Langer.

Tell your clients about The Newcomers Club of The Woodlands annual Welcome Social on Sunday, August 30 from 4:30 – 6 pm at The Woodlands Country Club Palmer Clubhouse, 100 Grand Fairway Drive. The group’s goal is to introduce women of The Woodlands to the social and civic life of the community. No RSVP is required. Visit http://www.woodlandsnewcomers.com for more information.

Town Center Theatre, a professional theater group in The Woodlands, is featuring Second Sunday Showcase, a series of cabaret shows at Dosey Doe on the I-45 southbound feeder road just before Sawdust Road. The next show is scheduled for September 13, featuring a group of musical theatre artists performing favorite Broadway show tunes! For tickets, call Dosey Doe at 281-367-3774.

If we can help you with anything, give us a call:  Ken Brand 832-797-1779

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Special 4th of July Community Update for The Woodlands TX

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on July 2, 2009

A big thank you to The Woodlands Development Company for all this great information.

In This Issue...

There’s No Better Place to Spend the 4th of July than The Woodlands

July 4thThe Woodlands is the place to be on the 4th of July weekend, beginning with the traditional Star-Spangled Salute free concert on July 3 and ending with the second largest fireworks display in the Greater Houston region on the evening of July 4. Here are all the details of the many events taking place in this All-American community!


Star-Spangled Salute

Star Spangled SaluteThis free concert on Independence Eve, July 3 at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion begins at 8 pm. Patriotic music from the Houston Symphony will be performed with a finale of fireworks. Led byPrincipal Pops Conductor Michael Krajewski, the symphony will perform a variety of traditional favorites, American classics and patriotic medleys, ending with Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular “1812 Overture”complete with cannons blasting away at the top of the hill. Joining the symphony will be The Cactus Cuties, a group of four talented young people who have delighted audiences for years with their beautiful harmony and charismatic presence. Their arrangement of “The Star-Spangled Banner” garnered 5 million hits onYou Tube in only three months, touching hearts all over the world.

Gates open at 6:30 pm for pre-concert activities including free photos with lovable mascot of The Woodlands, Puffy Pine Cone. The concert is sponsored by The Woodlands Development Company.

ACTIVE, RESERVE AND RECENTLY DISCHARGED SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN are invited to the FREE Star-Spangled Salute where The Woodlands Development Company and The Pavilion will recognize them at the beginning of the concert for their dedication and service to our country. A specially-marked reserved section is available for these individuals and their families (up to four seats per person). Individuals are asked to RSVP by July 1 to cdubois@woodlandscenter.org if they would like reserved seating.


4th of July Parade

ParadeThe South Montgomery County 4th of July parade begins at 9 am and runs through The Woodlands Town Center and Market Street, beginning and ending at The Woodlands United Methodist Church on Lake Woodlands Drive. The theme is “Traveling the USA.”The Grand Marshal of the parade will be Dr. Don Stockton, Conroe ISD Superintendent. Pre-parade entertainment, including Darrel the Fire Juggler, Uncle Sam, Clowns, Spiderman, Scooby Doo, Sponge Bob, a stilt walker, balloonist and magician will mingle with the crowd from 8 -9 am in Market Street’s Central Park.


The Great Red, White and Blue Duck Race

Duck RaceDucks race at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center in the Village of Creekside Park on July 4, beginning at 1 pm. The Duck Race benefits many local charities includingMontgomery County Emergency Assistance.

For more information, visit www.duckrace.com/thewoodlands.


Stay Cool Midday at 4th of July Splash Day

Splash DayThe Fourth of July Splash Day takes place at the 13 community pools in The Woodlands with free admission to all residents from 12 noon – 4 pm. The lifeguards at each pool select special themes and provide free activities and refreshments while supplies last. The event is hosted by the Community Associations of The Woodlands Parks and Recreation Department.


YMCA Hosting Community Splash Day on the 4th

YMCAThe South Montgomery County YMCAs will be open on Saturday, July 4th from 6 am – 6 pm. The community is invited to a special July 4th Splash Day at the Branch Crossing YMCA Water Park from 2-5 pm. The event is part of YMCA Cool Days, presented by Reliant Energy, and is free and open to the public. YMCA Cool Days is the umbrella theme for all of the YMCA’s summer programs and activities occurring from now until Labor Day. The Branch Crossing YMCA is located at 8100 Ashlane Way in The Woodlands.

For more information, log on to www.YMCACoolDays.org or call 281-367-9622.


The Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza

RHBThe 12th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival will be celebrated on July 4 from 6 pm – 10 pm at Town Green Park and Waterway Square along the banks of The Woodlands Waterway®. Entertainment at Town Green Park will feature live music from Yelba and Max Cat, plus family-fun activities like the H-E-B Hot Dog and Watermelon Eating Contests, the Donoho’s Jewellers’ jewelry-making activities, a golf range, rock climbing walls, free Xploration Station’s children’s activities, a Hubbell & Hudson Market booth, inflatables, and a beverage station at the Oasis Garden to cool off.

Activities at Waterway Square include face painting, balloon artists, caricatures and an interactive children’s fountain presented by St. Luke’s-The Woodlands Hospital. Enjoy live music from Ramon Torres at 6 pm on the Huntsman Corporation entertainment stage, followed by The Josh Ward Band from 8-9:30 pm.

Waterway Square is the best spot to view the Red, Hot & Blue Fireworks Extravaganza, presented by Woodforest National Bank at dusk (approximately 9:15 pm). Other good locations for viewing the fireworks include the north side of The Woodlands Waterway®, east of the Waterway Avenue Bridge, and the turning basin by Town Green Park. The 20-minute display will also be simulcast on Sunny 99.1. It is the second largest fireworks show in the Greater Houston region.

The Red, Hot & Blue Festival is hosted by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Parking is available for $5 at both the Town Center Parking Garage located on Six Pines Drive, as well as the parking lot at the corner of Lake Robbins and Six Pines Drive. Visitors may park for free at the orange, yellow and green lots along Timberloch Place. Trolleys will operate from 11 am – 8 pm on July 4. Water taxis will operate along The Woodlands Waterway on July 3 from 11 am – 10 pm and July 4 between 11 am and 11 pm, except during the fireworks display (8:45 – 10 pm). Special pricing of $5 for an all day pass and $2.50 for a seniors/youth/disabled pass will be in effect.

For more information, visit www.redhotblue.org or call 281-363-2447.


Free Concert at Northshore Park

Concert in the ParkCountry singer Nigel Edison performs a free concert at Northshore Park on July 4 from 7 – 9 pm. Also on the 4th of July at Northshore Park, bring your favorite method of transportation (bike, tricycle, scooter or wagon) for the decorating contest and parade. Decorating materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. A parade around the park will give judges time to choose winners! This event is for children 14 years and younger and starts at 5:30 pm just before the concert. The cost is $5 per entry. The event is hosted by the Community Associations of The Woodlands Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit www.thewoodlandsassociations.org.


New Patriotic Songs at The Fountains at Waterway Square

FountainsWith the 4th of July right around the corner, The Fountains at Waterway Square are being programmed with a variety of patriotic songs. The new songs will run July 1 through July 5, 2009 and include patriotic classics including “America the Beautiful” by Ray Charles, “Proud to be an American” by Lee Greenwood, “National Emblem March”, “Seventy Six Trombones”, “Stars and Stripes Forever,” and “God Bless America” by the Houston Symphony. The shows will be from 6 – 11 pm on weekdays and 2 – 11 pm on weekends.

Waterway Square, located along Lake Robbins Drive between Waterway Avenue and Woodloch Forest Drive, features a 120-foot long, 10-foot high stone water wall where ribbons of water flow down seven terraced levels to a lower pond with 20 cascade jets. The water wall is flanked by stairs and stepped water cascades, all leading to an upper fountain containing 80 jets and three boomer jets that shoot water up to 75 feet in the air. The fountains are choreographed to music and feature colored lighting at night.

For more information about the Fountains at Waterway Square, visit www.TheFountainsatWaterwaySquare.com.

Real Estate News

J. Patrick Homes Building in the Village of Creekside Park

J. PatrickJ. Patrick Homes, a family-owned homebuilding company active in 12 communities in the greater Houston area, has begun a homebuilding program in The Woodlands’ Village of Creekside Park. A model home is under construction in the neighborhood of Tupelo Green, which is opening to the public in early July. The homebuilding company will be offering six different floor plans in Creekside Park, ranging in size from 3,132 – 4,400 square feet. Prices range from the low- to mid-$400’s.

“J. Patrick Homes has been successful in many Houston area communities, and we look forward to offering this popular product in the Village of Creekside Park,” said Buck Driggers, vice president of residential sales and development for The Woodlands Development Company.

J. Patrick Homes has been building home in prime neighborhoods throughout the greater Houston area since 1990. For more information about J. Patrick Homes in The Woodlands, visit www.jpatrickhomes.com or call 713-789-8004, ext. 15.


Beusa Energy, Inc. Leasing Top Floor of 4 Waterway Square Office Building

4 Waterway SquareBeusa Energy, Inc., an exploration and production company engaged in the acquisition, development and production of oil and natural gas properties, has leased the entire top floor of the new 4 Waterway SquareClass A office building (pictured) in The Woodlands Waterway Square District. The company is expected to move approximately 30 employees into its new 24,592-square-foot headquarters this December. The company is currently officed in the Parkwood Building, located at 10077 Grogan’s Mill Road in The Woodlands.

4 Waterway Square is under construction and will be completed in early September. The nine-story, 216,000-square-foot multi-tenant office building is located on The Woodlands Waterway®, at the intersection of Waterway Square Place and Woodloch Forest Drive. The building will include a covered walkway to the new 1,900-space Waterway Square parking garage, located adjacent to the building. The garage is also expected to be completed in early September.

For more information about office leasing in The Woodlands, call Dan Leverett at 281-719-6142 (dleverett@thewoodlands.com) or Dennis Conine at 281-719-6273 (dconine@thewoodlands.com).


Three Custom Homes Featured in Open House This Weekend

Open HouseTwo beautiful custom homes in the Village of Sterling Ridge and one inEast Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center, will be open for touring this weekend. Pictured is 14 Sterling Dale, situated on the Gary Player Signature golf course in Sterling Ridge. Built by Hann Builders and priced at $1,750,000, the home includes 6,426 square feet, many green features, and exquisite Mediterranean architecture. This home will be open on Sunday, July 5 from 1 – 4 pm.

Other homes open this weekend include:

55 West Double Green
George Weaver, Inc.

5,425 square feet
$998,500
Open Saturday and Sunday, July 4-5, 10 am – 2 pm

6 Georgian Row
John Post Homes, LLC

9,000 square feet
$2,695,000
Overlooking Lake Woodlands in East Shore
Open Sunday, July 5, 1-4 pm

For a complete listing of custom homes available in The Woodlands call Robyn Brand @ 281-367-4550 or cell: 832-928-4143.


Holiday Hours at The Woodlands Homefinder Center

Homefinder CenterThe Woodlands Homefinder Center will observe abbreviated hours on Saturday, July 4. The Center will be open from 9 am – 5 pm on Saturday. Regular hours will resume on Sunday, July 5 from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm. Please stop by with your clients – the welcome mat is always out and there’s always fresh coffee!

Did You Know?
  • Fire Chief Alan B. Benson has issued a message to all residents asking them to protect the quality of life in our community by not discharging fireworks. The Woodlands Covenants prohibit the use of fireworks in The Woodlands. This is particularly crucial this year, due to the dangerously dry conditions in our County. Residents are encouraged to view the spectacular fireworks display in Town Center and other approved public displays this upcoming 4th of July.
  • Due to the extreme hot and dry weather, The Woodlands Joint Powers Agency has issued Mandatory Water Restrictions for The Woodlands that limits outdoor irrigation to no more than two days per week. Addresses ending in odd numbers are limited to Wednesdays and Saturdays and those ending in even numbers should water on Thursdays and Sundays before 4 am. For more information, www.wjpa.org.
  • Nominations are being accepted for 2009 Hometown Heroes beginning July 2 through August 21, 2009. This esteemed honor will be bestowed upon four individuals residing in The Woodlands and one business or institution based in The Woodlands that serve as outstanding role models for volunteerism and dedication to The Woodlands community. Nomination forms are available in The Villager newspaper, at The Woodlands Homefinder Center or online at www.thewoodlands.net and www.woodlandsinterfaith.org.

We wish all of our Realtor® friends a very safe, fun and memorable 4th of July weekend!

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The Woodlands Community Update – June 24th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on June 25, 2009

Thank you to The Woodlands Development Company for this Community Update.

13 Stone Twin Villas Available in Bloomhill

BloomhillLennar Homes is offering its collection of Stone Twin Villas in the neighborhood of Bloomhill in the new 400-acre area called May Valleyin the Village of Sterling Ridge. 13 townhomes are available. The Mimosa and the Laurel plans are featured, ranging in size from approximately 1,423 to 1,599 square feet. The two-story residences include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and a two-car attached garage. Each home includes a small backyard for low-maintenance living. The Stone Twin Villas range in price from the $140’s to the $160’s. For more information, call Kelly Buish at 281-465-8417 or visit www.lennar.com.

Also, builders in May Valley are offering valuable incentives. Plus, The Woodlands Development Company is offering the buyer’s a choice of either a free initiation fee for Canongate Golf Clubs or a free one-year family membership to the South Montgomery County YMCA. Homebuyers must purchase a new home in May Valley between May 8, 2009 and August 31, 2009 and close by October 31, 2009 to be eligible for these incentives. For more information about new homes in May Valley, visit www.thewoodlands.com and click on the icon on the home page, or call the Homefinder Center at 281-719-6333.


Four Custom Homes Open This Weekend

Gregorian RowThe Woodlands Custom Homes will host an Open House this weekend. Three homes in the Village of Sterling Ridge will be open for viewing. One home in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center, will also be open.

Pictured is the French Country-style estate at 6 Georgian Row in East Shore, overlooking 200-acre Lake Woodlands. This three-story home features 9,000 square feet of living space, two parlors, elevator, five bedrooms, six full baths with two half baths, complete outdoor living area and a four-car garage. Priced at $2,695,000, this home is open on Sunday, June 28 from 1 – 4 pm. For more information on the Open House, click here or call Robyn Brand @ The Woodlands Custom Homes at 281-367-4550.

News aro

Service Men and Women to be Honored at the “Star-Spangled Salute” Concert at The Pavilion

Star-Spangled SaluteActive, reserve and recently discharged service men and women are invited to the free “Star-Spangled Salute” concert at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion whereThe Woodlands Development Company and The Pavilion will provide a special tribute to them.

The “Star-Spangled Salute” will take place on Friday, July 3, 2009, beginning at 8 pm with the gates opening at 6:30 pm. Service men and women will be honored at the beginning of the program. A specially-marked reserved section at The Pavilion will be available for seating for active, reserve and recently discharged service men and women and their families (up to four seats). Please RSVP to Cindy DuBois, director of marketing at The Pavilion, by Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at CDuBois@woodlandscenter.org. The Woodlands Development Company has sponsored the “Star-Spangled Salute” concert since its inception in 1990. For more information on this Independence Eve event, visit www.woodlandscenter.org.


Fourth of July in The Woodlands

Fourth of July in The WoodlandsSeveral patriotic events are planned in The Woodlands for the Fourth of July holiday, including:

Star-Spangled Salute – free concert on Independence Eve, July 3 at The Pavilion, beginning at 8 pm. Patriotic music from the Houston Symphonywill be performed with the finale of fireworks. Gates open at 6:30 pm for pre-concert activities including free photos with lovable mascot of The Woodlands,Puffy Pine Cone. The concert is sponsored by The Woodlands Development Company.

4th of July Parade – The South Montgomery County 4th of July paradebegins at 9 am and runs through The Woodlands Town Center and Market Street. The theme is “Traveling the USA”.

The Great Red, White & Blue Duck Race – Ducks race at the Rob Fleming Aquatic Center in the Village of Creekside Park on July 4, beginning at 1 pm. The Duck Race benefits many local charities includingMontgomery County Emergency Assistance. For more information, visitwww.duckrace.com/thewoodlands.

4th of July Splash Day – The Fourth of July Splash Day takes place at the 13 community pools in The Woodlands with free admission and free refreshments from 12 noon – 4 pm. The event is hosted by the Community Associations of The Woodlands Parks and Recreation Department.

The Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza – The 12th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival will be celebrated on July 4 from 6 pm – 10 pm at Town Green Park and Waterway Square. Music, contests, activities and inflatables highlight the festivities culminating with a 20-minute fireworks show, the second largest in the Greater Houston region. The fireworks will begin at approximately 9:15 pm. The Festival is hosted by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Free Concert at Northshore Park – Country singer Nigel Edison performs a free concert at Northshore Park on July 4 from 7 – 9 pm. Also at Northshore Park, bring your favorite method of transportation (bike, tricycle, scooter or wagon) for the decorating contest and parade. Decorating materials will be provided, or you can bring your own. A parade around the park will give judges time to choose winners! This event is for children 14 years and younger and starts at 5:30 pm just before the concert. The cost is $5 per entry. The event is hosted by the Community Associations of The Woodlands Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit www.4thofjuly.org.

Did You Know?
  • Over 125 families have purchased a new home in the 400-acre area called May Valley in The Woodlands’ Village of Sterling Ridge.
  • The American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer named Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital one of just 95 national recipients of its 2008 Commission on Cancer Outstanding Achievement Award.
  • Volunteers are still needed for The South Montgomery County 4th of July parade. For more information, emailinfo@4thofjuly.org.

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The Woodlands TX – Community Update – June 4th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on June 5, 2009

Thank You to The Woodlands Development Company for all the updates.

In This Issue...

New Garden Park, “The Ellipse”, Now at East Shore

EllipseA new private garden park called “The Ellipse” has been completed in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center. Bordering the eastern edge of 200-acre Lake Woodlands, East Shore is a 260-acre enclave situated near the shopping, dining and entertainment venues along The Woodlands Waterway®. East Shore combines classic architecture, formal garden parks and green spaces with urban living.

The Ellipse is the focal point of a new area under development called Mid-Lake. About ½-acre in size, the park features an elliptical green bordered by seating and picnic areas around the perimeter. This garden edge is connected by decomposed granite walkways shaded by 39 oak trees and colorful perennial flower beds.

Garden architecture within the park includes a cast stone and quarry tile fountain 17 ½ feet in diameter, Cantera stone spheres, a Cantera stone obelisk, steel lattice spheres and a steel lattice obelisk. Terraced brick planters and ornamental stonework enhance the distinctive character of The Ellipse and other parks in East Shore. Blooming plants and shrubs include azaleas, wintergreen boxwoods, bi-color irises, trailing lantana, mondo grass, blue plumbago, Asian and star jasmine, firecracker russelia, wedelia, salvia, and Mexican bush sage.

The park was designed by Clark Condon Associates of Houston, and Gulf Coast Landscape was the contractor. The park was built by The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC).

“East Shore has been designed as a walkable environment, with an abundance of details that reward the pedestrian,” saidTim Welbes, president of TWDC. “Walking bridges, ponds, sculptural elements, stonework, flowering plants, street trees and ornamental streetlamps all combine to create a streetscape that is vibrant, colorful and memorable. The parks have different features that complement the American classical architecture in each neighborhood.”

To find out more about East Shore, visit www.thewoodlands.com and click on the East Shore icon on the home page.


…And Speaking of East Shore, A Variety of Urban Residences Offered

East ShoreA variety of urban residences are offered in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center. East Shore is a 260-acre enclave on the eastern edge of 200-acre Lake Woodlands.

Custom home activity is underway in East Shore from homebuildersHahnfeld-Witmer-Davis, John Post, Robin Rueby, Christopher Simsand George Weaver. Custom residences are priced from $1.5 million. For more information on custom residences, call The Woodlands Custom Homes at 281-367-4550.

J.M. Wendell Custom Homes is offering new homes in Charleston Park in East Shore, priced from $1.5 million. Wendell is also constructing New Orleans cottages and Paddington Terrace-style homes (streetscape pictured, top photograph), situated near The Ellipse park in the new area of Mid-Lake, priced from the $700’s to $1 million +. For more information on Wendell, call 832-928-1225.

Stonemark Builders presents The Villas – 25 single-family, three-story residences in East Shore, priced from the $650’s to $900’s. Carmel Builders (bottom photograph) and McVaugh Custom Homes are featuring Southern Coastal-style condominiums and townhomes, priced from the $390’s to the $750’s. Carmel Builders is offering a collection of 21, three-story townhomes. McVaugh presents Oasis Pointe Condominiums and Townhomes overlooking Lake Woodlands. 54 condominiums and 56, three-story townhomes are being offered. For more information on East Shore, visit www.thewoodlands.com and click the East Shore icon on the home page.


Trendmaker’s Completed Specs Open Everyday

TrendmakerTrendmaker Homes is opening their completed spec inventory homes everyday from 12 noon until 4 pm in the neighborhoods of Paloma Pointand Tupelo Park in the Village of Creekside Park and Fair Manor in the Village of Sterling Ridge. Bring your clients to tour these homes. If you need the homes to be open at a different time, contact Robert Rabson, community sales manager for Trendmaker Homes, at 281-351-2647 or at Robert.Rabson@trendmakerhomes.com, and he will accommodate you. For more information, visitwww.trendmakerhomes.com.

…And yes, Trendmaker Homes is open in Tupelo Park – Trendmaker Homes is offering single-family homes, priced from the $400’s to the $500’s, in the neighborhood of Tupelo Park in the Village of Creekside Park. Three spec homes are available: 110 E. Tupelo Green Circle, 120 E. Tupelo Circle and 130 E. Tupelo Green Circle. This neighborhood offers views of the future 10-acre Tupelo Park. Scheduled to open in the fall of 2009, Tupelo Park will feature a pavilion, playground, tennis and basketball courts, picnic area and terraced lake connected to Lake Paloma with parking and a canoe launch.

Pictured is Trendmaker’s decorated model, M240. This two-story home features 3,396 square feet of living space, four bedrooms, downstairs study, formal dining room, upstairs game room, rear covered patio, three-and-a-half baths and a three-car tandem garage. This home is priced from $431,900.


Coventry Homes Closing Out of Knight’s Crossing

Knight's CrossingCoventry Homes is closing out of the neighborhood of Knight’s Crossing in the Village of Sterling Ridge. Three homes are available for immediate move-in, priced from $427,601.

Ready for move-in is Design 3144 located at 58 North Knight’s Crossing Drive, overlooking the Gary Player Signature golf course. At 3,154 square feet, this two-story townhome features three bedrooms; two-and-a-half baths; spacious island kitchen with granite countertops and beautiful cabinetry; and an elegant formal dining room complete with a butler’s pantry and wine cellar. Through French doors, the dining room opens to a courtyard, warmed by an outdoor fireplace. Other features include a fully sodded yard with sprinkler system, in-wall pest system and alarm system installed. This home is priced at $528,569. For more information on Coventry Homes, call Laurie Rains at 281-362-0285 or visit www.coventryhomes.com.


Homeowner Incentives in May Valley

May ValleyMay Valley, a new forested 400-acre area in the Village of Sterling Ridge, features new single family homes and townhomes, priced from the $140’s – $500’s. Seven decorated model homes are now open in the neighborhoods of Almondell, Bloomhill, Quillwood and Vershire in the May Valley area. Clare Point, highlighting Trendmaker Homes, will open soon.

When your client purchases a new home in May Valley between May 8, 2009 and August 31, 2009 and closes by October 31, 2009, they can choose from a free one-year family membership to the South Montgomery County YMCA or a free initiation fee to Canongate Golf Clubs in The Woodlands along with valuable builder incentives.

Pictured is the Delfina IV by Plantation Homes in the neighborhood of Vershire. Plantation Homes is offering its “Yes You Can” promotion in May Valley with no electric bill for two years (up to a $4,500 value); free options and upgrades (varies); and “Loss of Job Insurance” on new homes with a contract purchase date of June 5 through June 30, 2009. For started homes, Plantation is offering $1,000 from Gallery Furniture. Restrictions may apply. For more information on May Valley, visit www.thewoodlands.com and click on the May Valley icon on the home page.


The Woodlands Custom Homes Hosts Open House

The Woodlands Custom Homes will host an open house this weekend featuring seven custom residences – six in theVillage of Sterling Ridge and one in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center.

The Woodlands Custom Homes30 East Double Green (top photograph)
George Weaver, Inc. 
Open June 7, 2 – 5 pm.
European “Old World” style, stone and stucco home situated on the Gary Player Signature Golf course, $1,315,000.

14 Sterling Dale 
Hann Builders

Open Sunday, June 7, 2 – 4 pm. 
Mediterranean-style home situated on the Gary Player Signature Golf course. Home is very energy efficient and “green”, $1,895,000.

34 East Loftwood Circle (middle photograph)
Jeff Paul Custom Homes, Ltd.
Open June 6 & 7, 10 am – 2 pm
Spanish Mission-style home, stucco exterior with a clay tile roof and courtyard, $1,165,000.

19 East Loftwood
T.D. Cox Homes

Open Sunday, June 7, 2 – 5 pm.
Mediterranean-style home situated on the Gary Player Signature Golf course. Downstairs media room, $1,160,000.

35 Player Bend
Hahnfeld-Witmer-Davis

Open June 6, 1 – 4 pm & June 7, 2 – 5 pm
Traditional-style brick home situated on the Gary Player Signature Golf course. Large back yard, $1,750,000.

3 Signature Crest
Meadowlark Homes, Inc.

Open June 7, 2 – 4 pm
French Country-style home with cathedral beamed ceilings in study and great room, arched ceilings in baths, $1,155,000.

6 Georgian Row (bottom photograph) 
John Post Homes, LLC
Open, June 6, 1 – 4 pm & June 7, 12 noon – 3 pm
French Country-style three-story home, located in East Shore, bordering 200-acre Lake Woodlands, $2,695,000.

For more information, call Robyn Brand @ The Woodlands Custom Homes at 281-367-4550.

News Around The Woodlands

Berripop Frozen Yogurt Coming to The Woodlands Waterway Square District

Berripop Frozen YogurtBerripop Frozen Yogurt is planning to open a new store at 25 Waterway Avenue next to Baker Street Pub & Grill in The Woodlands Waterway Square District. Scheduled to open in early July, the 1,150-square-foot store will have indoor and outdoor seating, according to Greg Jordan, director of commercial sales for The Woodlands Development Company.

Berripop Frozen Yogurt is an upscale frozen yogurt boutique serving fat-free, natural, authentic frozen yogurt that is both tart and creamy. Berripop’s yogurt has live and active cultures which provide health benefits, according to the company’s website. Patrons can top off the yogurt with a variety of toppings including fresh fruit (cut fresh on-site), almonds, granola, cheesecake, Fruity Pebbles, chocolate chips and more. Six flavors will be served initially at the new store including Berripop original flavor, raspberry pomegranate, mango, acai berry and blueberry. Smoothies will also be served.

The atmosphere will be hip and trendy, with music videos and WiFi. Berripop is a Houston-based franchise with two other stores open and another under construction in the Houston area, in addition to the store in The Woodlands. For more information, log on to www.berripop.com.

Did You Know?
  • There are now 123 families living in May Valley in the Village of Sterling Ridge. 

  • The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center has become the first Texas hotel to launch a complimentary Social Station which allows guests to stay connected to Facebook and Twitter while they travel. Conveniently located in The Resort’s lobby, the Social Station is set up for immediate access to the social networking sites.

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The Woodlands Community Update – May 29th, 2009

by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on May 30, 2009

The Woodlands Development Company works hard to keep us well informed. Here’s the latest.

Seven Custom Homes Open This Weekend

The Woodlands Custom Homes is hosting an Open House this weekend, May 30 – 31. Seven beautiful custom homes ready for move-in will be open, six located in the Village of Sterling Ridge near the Gary Player Signaturegolf course, and one in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center.

6 Georgian Row 
John Post Homes, LLC

$2,695,000
5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, 2 half baths, 4-car garage
9,000 square feet
Open May 30, 1 – 3 pm & May 31, 1 – 4 pm

3 Signature Crest
Meadowlark Homes, Inc.

$1,155,000
5 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, 4-car garage
5,575 square feet
Open May 31, 2 – 4 pm

18 East Loftwood 
Meadowlark Homes

$1,024,000
5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 3-car garage
5,335 square feet
Open May 31, 1:30 – 4: 30 pm

14 East Loftwood
Tommy Bailey Homes

$1,024,000
5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 3-car garage
5,073 square feet
Open May 31, 1:30 – 4:30 pm

14 Sterling Dale
Hann Builders

$1,895,000
4 bedrooms (could convert to 5), 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 3-car garage
Overlooks the Gary Player Signature golf course
6,426 square feet
Open May 31, 1 – 3 pm

35 Player Bend
Hahnfeld-Witmer-Davis
$1,750,000
5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 4-car garage
7,070 square feet
Open May 30, 1 – 5 pm & May 31, 2 – 5 pm

34 East Loftwood
Jeff Paul Custom Homes, Ltd.

$1,165,000
5 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, 3-car garage
5,695 square feet
Open May 31, 12 noon – 4 pm

For more information on these homes and other custom homes in The Woodlands, call Robyn Brand at The Woodlands Custom Homes Center at 281-367-4550 or 832-928-4142

 


 

Merchandise Including Anniversary T-Shirt, License Plate Frame 
for Sale at Homefinder Center

The Woodlands 35th Anniversary “Green” T-Shirt is for sale for only $5 at The Woodlands Homefinder Center. A variety of sizes are available for adults and children. Pictured here is Bev Earl (second from right) and her family enjoying their t-shirts. Also for sale is the “Come Home to The Woodlands, TX” license plate frame for $10 and “Puffy Baby”, the stuffed pinecone representing lovable mascot of The Woodlands, Puffy Pine Cone, for $5. Cash only is accepted. These make ideal gifts for your clients closing on homes in The Woodlands!

The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center Named One of the Top Meeting Facilities in the Nation

The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center has been named one of the nation’s top meeting facilities earning the distinguished 2009 Pinnacle Award from readers of Successful Meetings, a leading source of news and information for meeting professionals. Now in its 25th year, the Pinnacle Award is presented to a select group of conference centers, hotels, convention centers and visitors bureaus as chosen and reviewed by meeting planners for their commitment to hospitality excellence.

The Resort has received this coveted award 12 times since 1996. “In our 35-year history, we’ve worked to establish ourselves as a leading conference center. This award reflects the commitment of our staff to reach that goal by providing a high level of service and hospitality to every guest,” said Tory Enriquez, director of sales and marketing for The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center.

For more information about The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center, visit www.woodlandsresort.com.

Conroe ISD Receives Accolades

Conroe Independent School District (CISD) is proud to announce thatThe Education Resource Group (ERG) has released 2007-2008 Division I District data which places CISD in the Best Overall Performance Category. The Division I Category includes 200 of the largest school districts in Texas, and CISD ranked fifth in overall performance. Additionally, The Top 10 Districts Report ranks CISD sixth in the Most Improved Performance Category. The research measures an Academic Performance index along with a Financial Performance Index to determine how well school districts are providing a quality education to students in a cost effective manner.

Dr. Don Stockton, CISD superintendent, said upon learning of the District’s performance, “We are thrilled that our efforts toward academic performance and financial efficiences are recognized by The Education Resource Group’s (ERG) Performance Report. This accomplishment should make the community very proud of the Conroe Independent School District.”

The CISD is one of three school districts serving The Woodlands. To find out more about the CISD, visit www.conroeisd.net.

Did You Know?
 

  • It’s Wine and Food Week in The Woodlands! Two of the biggest events are happening this weekend - World Wines Happy Hour tonight, May 29 and the Waterford Wine Rendezvous Grand Tasting & Texas Chef Showcase on Saturday, May 30. For a complete event line-up and to purchase tickets, visit www.wineandfoodweek.com or call 713-557-5732.

  • Splash! The 13 community pools in The Woodlands open for regular season daily use on Friday, June 5. To purchase pool passes, visit The Woodlands Recreation Center at 5310 Research Forest Drive for new passes orwww.thewoodlandsassociations.org, Click on Parks and Recreation, then Pools and Aquatics to renew passes. You can also get a complete list of pools and times they are open on the website.
  •  

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    The Woodlands Hometown Community Update – April 23rd, 2009

    by Ken Brand, Sales Manager - Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors / The Woodlands TX / Cell: 832-797-1779 on April 24, 2009

    Lot’s happening. Thank You Woodlands Development Company for allowing me to share the good news. 

    The Woodlands Master-Planned Community Not Involved
    in General Growth Properties’ Filing

    General Growth Properties, Inc. (GGP) announced on Thursday, April 16, 2009 that it has voluntarily sought relief under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of  New York. Certain GGP subsidiaries and GGP’s joint ventures have not filed for protection. The Woodlands master-planned community is a joint venture between Morgan Stanley Real Estate Fund II (MSREF II) and GGP. This joint venture is not one of the entities that has filed for protection. A complete list of GGP subsidiaries and the related operating properties that have filed voluntary petitions can be found at www.ggp.com, as well as a list of operating properties not involved in the filings. The Woodlands master-planned community is not one of the properties in the filings.

    Tim Welbes and Alex Sutton, co-presidents of The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC) have stated that TWDC is a stand alone, locally operated and managed company that has its own line of credit, business plan and economic model. TWDC’s senior management will continue to develop, sell, lease and operate The Woodlands’ assets in accordance with its business plan, according to Welbes and Sutton.

    The Woodlands Mall is not owned, managed or affiliated with The Woodlands Development Company. For information about GGP’s malls and other properties, go to the Frequently Asked Questions section on www.ggp.com.

    Prior to 1997, The Woodlands was solely owned by Mitchell Energy & Development Corp., founder George P. Mitchell’s company. In 1997, Mitchell sold the company and its assets to a partnership of Morgan Stanley Real Estate Fund II (MSREF II) and Crescent Real Estate Equities. In 2003, The Rouse Company acquired Crescent’s interest in The Woodlands, and in 2004, Rouse’s interest was acquired by GGP. Since that time, The Woodlands has been owned by a limited partnership of MSREF II and GGP.
    The Woodlands has been the best-selling master-planned community in Texas since 1990 and is currently ranked #3 in the nation in terms of new home sales. Founded in 1974, the community currently has nearly 90,000 residents, 1,587 employers and 44,202 employees. Total investment in The Woodlands to date is $9.6 billion. For more information, visit www.thewoodlands.com.

     


      

    Five Custom Homes Open This Weekend

    The Woodlands Custom Homes is hosting an Open House on Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26. Five beautiful custom homes ready for move-in will be open for touring this weekend, four located in the Village of Sterling Ridge and one in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center.

    6 Georgian Row
    John Post Homes, LLC

    $2,695,000
    5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, 2 half baths, 4-car garage
    9,000 square feet
    Open April 25, 1 – 4 pm

    14 Sterling Dale 
    Hann Builders       
     
    $1,895,000
    4 bedrooms (could convert to 5), 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 3-car garage
    6,426 square feet, located on the Gary Player Signature golf course
    Open April 25, 1 – 4 pm & April 26, 2 – 5 pm

    35 Player Bend 
    Hahnfeld-Witmer-Davis 

    $1,750,000
    5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths, 4-car garage
    7,070 square feet, located on the Gary Player Signature golf course
    Open April 25, 1 – 5 pm

    3 Signature Crest
    Meadowlark Homes, Inc.

    $1,155,000
    5 bedrooms, 5 ½ baths, 4-car garage
    5,575 square feet
    Open April 25, 1 – 4 pm & April 26, 1 – 4 pm

    18 E. Loftwood 
    Meadowlark Homes, Inc.

    $1,024,000
    5 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, 3-car garage
    5,335 square feet
    Open April 25, 1 – 4 pm & April 26, 10 am – 2 pm

    For more information, call Robyn Brand @ The Woodlands Custom Homes at 281-367-4550 or visitwww.thewoodlandscustomhomesonline.com.

     


      

    Discover the May Valley Tour of Homes – May 8-10 & May 15-17

    Take your clients to the May Valley Tour of Homes, a free special event set in The Woodlands’ newest neighborhood, May Valley in the Village of Sterling Ridge. The May Valley Tour of Homes will take place on two consecutive weekends in May. Nine beautifully furnished model homes will be open Friday through Sunday, May 8 – 10, and Friday through Sunday, May 15 – 17, 2009 from 10 am – 6 pm. Register to win nine valuable prizes including six family four-packs of tickets to five Houston Astros’ baseball games, two family season passes to The Woodlands’ 13 community pools, and a romantic weekend getaway for two at The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center.

    In addition to the prize drawing, visitors to the May Valley Tour of Homes may take advantage of valuable builders’ incentives and their choice of either a free initiation fee for Canongate Golf Clubs or a free, one-year family membership to the South Montgomery County YMCA. Homebuyers must purchase a new home in May Valley between May 8, 2009 and August 31, 2009 and close by October 31, 2009 to be eligible for these incentives.

    The popular homebuilders participating in the May Valley Tour of Homes include Chesmar, Gracepoint, Highland, Lennar, Plantation, Village Builders and David Weekley HomesTrendmaker Homes is also building new homes in May Valley, and Trendmaker’s model will be completed in June. Prices in May Valley range from the $140’s to the $500’s.

    Pictured is the Hillandale by David Weekley Homes. This home features four bedrooms, 3 ½ baths, a three-car tandem garage, two-story entry, media room, study, formal dining, sunroom and front and back covered porches. It is priced at $424,990 and includes 4,138 square feet of living space.

     


      

    Southern Mark Homes Hosts Open House on May 9-10

    Southern Mark Homes, a member of the J.M. Wendell, LLC family of companies, is hosting an Open House on Saturday and Sunday, May 9 – 10 from 12 noon – 5 pm in East Shore, the “Garden District” of The Woodlands Town Center. Priced from the $750’s and up, five luxurious custom homes will be open for viewing.

    Southern Mark’s New Orleans Cottages echo the architectural styling of the Signature Creole Courtyard, which takes The Orleans concept to the next level of sophistication. Three New Orleans Cottages will be open:

    41 North Bay Boulevard, The Fairfield, $880,000
    49 North Bay Boulevard, The Chesterfield, $925,000
    2600 Brightwork Way, The Georgetown, $935,000

    Southern Mark’s Paddington Terrace-style homes are reminiscent of 19th century England. Two of these homes will be open:

    2601 Brightwork Way, The Greenwich, $825,000
    2603 Brightwork Way, The Chessington, $765,000

     


      

    The 51st Sculpture in The Woodlands Recently Named The Woodlands Passage

    The Woodlands’ newest and 51st piece of public art, located on Grogan’s Mill Road just north of Woodlands Parkway, was recently named The Woodlands Passage, according to Dan Leverett, vice president of commercial for The Woodlands Development Company (TWDC). The artwork was crafted by sculptor and architectural glass craftsman Otto Rigan of Bisbee, Arizona.

    The Woodlands Passage is composed of five monumental sculptures, each built in two parts, approximately 5’ wide X 1.75’ deep X 9’ high, weighing a total of 11,725 lbs. The sculptures were created from solid Texas limestone with laminate mirrored glass inlaid in segments. The project took Rigan approximately one year to complete. Rigan also created “Fountain”, a solid limestone sculpture with glass and mirror inlay, installed at 21 Waterway Avenue in The Woodlands Town Center in 2006.

    Beginning with “The Family”, a sculpture acquired for The Woodlands’ grand opening in 1974 and continuing through present day, The Woodlands has implemented a program to obtain works of art. “The 51 pieces of sculpture throughout The Woodlands are visual landmarks, located within the Town Center, at major intersections, gateways to different residential and commercial areas, entries to projects and buildings, and in the community’s parks and village centers,” Leverett said. “Having a collection of public art is aesthetically pleasing and adds to the unique character and cultural diversity in The Woodlands.” To view The Woodlands’ Public Art Interactive Map, visit www.thewoodlands.com, scroll over Nature and click Public Art.

    Riva Row Boat House Opening Set for Saturday

    Discover the pleasures of kayaking at a special event introducing The Woodlands’ newest amenity, Riva Row Boat House, situated withinRiva Row Park. Located in the heart of The Woodlands Town Center, Riva Row Park and Boat House are within walking distance to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell PavilionMarket StreetTown Green Park, and just a short trolley ride from any spot along The Woodlands Waterway®.

    An open house will be held this Saturday, April 25, from 10 am to 4 pm, hosted by the Community Associations of The WoodlandsThe Woodlands Development Company and Orvis. Take a kayak for a spin, learn tips during a kayak lesson, and enjoy music, refreshments and activities for the entire family along the beautiful Waterway! Admission is free for the open house and activities.

    Beginning April 26, kayaks will be offered for rental on The Woodlands Waterway and Lake Woodlands at Riva Row Boat House. Single and tandem kayaks, along with paddles and lifejackets, are provided by Orvis and will be available to rent for $15 per hour and $5 for the second hour, or $35 for a full day.

    Riva Row Boat House is located at 2101 Riva Row, directly across The Waterway from Town Green Park. Free parking for the Open House event on April 25 will be available in the Green Lot, located at 2002 Timberloch Place. For more information, call The Woodlands Community Associations Parks and Rec at 281-210-3900.

     

    • Waterway Square, the centerpiece of The Woodlands Town Center, presents live musical performances every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the month of April. “Live at Lunch”, from 11 am – 1 pm every Tuesday, features live music by the popular Ramon Torres. Lunches from Which Wich (cash only) on April 28 will be featured. “Live at Five” will take place every Wednesday in April from 5 – 8 pm. April 29 enjoy the Little Creek Bluegrass Band. Guests may purchase food and beverages (cash only).  

    • The South Montgomery County Woodlands Chamber of Commerce will host the Home, Health & Business Expo on Saturday, April 25th from 10 am – 4 pm at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, click here.   

    • Market Street presents the Fine Arts Festival on Saturday, April 25 from 10 am – 7 pm. Stroll down West Market Street near Johnny Rockets, while enjoying music and art from a variety of exhibitors showing their paintings, woodwork, sculptures, glass, mixed media and other works of art. For more information, visit www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com.

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