Celebrating 31 years Running for a Cause, the YMCA Run Thru the Woods is an annual Thanksgiving tradition in South Montgomery County. Out of an abundance of caution, this year’s annual YMCA Run Thru the Woods has been transitioned into a virtual event for 2020.

Designed for a wide variety of participants, Run Thru the Woods categories include a 1 mile Children’s Race, for ages 12 and under; a 5 mile Race; a 3 Mile Race and the 3 Mile Walk. New this year includes a 10 Mile Race; Super Triple 18 Mile Challenge; and a Team Challenge which is designed for running/training groups, social running groups, corporate teams and family/friends teams. The team component gives runners a way to share the experience with their running friends. Due to self-isolation and social distancing, many runners are craving the connection and community. They miss their “Running Buddies.” Team members tally their race times together to qualify for the fastest team award.

The 2020 Co-chairs for The John Cooper School’s 16^th Annual Signatures Author Series, Malin Melin and Lisa Hollingsworth, are pleased to announce that two-time National Book Award winner and bestselling author, Jesmyn Ward, will be this year’s featured author.

“Negotiations were finalized in early April for Ms. Ward to be our keynote author and the date has been confirmed for Friday, December 4 at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center,” Hollingsworth said. “We are very much looking forward to hearing Ms. Ward speak about the important and insightful topics she has shared through her diverse works,” Melin said.

Reservations for the Signatures Author Series will go on sale online on July 1 at www.johncooper.org/signatures for this highly anticipated luncheon event. Early registration for table sponsorships and individual reservations are recommended for best seating.

Event Dates:

• Friday, October 9
• Friday, November 6
• Friday, December 4

Though the Arthritis Foundation’s 2020 Jingle Bell Run is going virtual, don’t let that stop you from jingling. Join the original festive race for charity from anywhere! Whether you want to run your favorite 5K route, challenge yourself to something new or get moving on your treadmill, you can strut your stuff and FEEL GOOD about DOING GOOD. Every runner will receive an exclusive Jingle Bell Run short sleeve t-shirt, unique medal, and sticker for your water bottle or laptop!

It is more important now than ever to support the Arthritis Foundation programs and services. Thanks to generous supporters, the organization is helping 75% more people than before the pandemic get the help they urgently need.

For more help or information about the 2020 Jingle Bell Run – Houston, TX contact Jen Torres at jtorres@arthritis.org or call 713-253-0688.

This fun family adventure will have you wishing for a kayak under the tree this holiday season! Participants will depart from Riva Row Boat House in search of presents on our local shores.

Ages: All (recommended for 10 and under). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Fee: $40 per tandem (2 person) kayak.

Due to COVID-19, Township Parks and Recreation facilities, programs, services and events are subject to change, modification and/or cancellation to ensure compliance with respective State of Texas, Montgomery County and/or Harris County declarations and/or Township Board of Directors.

This fun family adventure will have you wishing for a kayak under the tree this holiday season! Participants will depart from Riva Row Boat House in search of presents on our local shores.

Ages: All (recommended for 10 and under). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Fee: $40 per tandem (2 person) kayak.

Due to COVID-19, Township Parks and Recreation facilities, programs, services and events are subject to change, modification and/or cancellation to ensure compliance with respective State of Texas, Montgomery County and/or Harris County declarations and/or Township Board of Directors.

This fun family adventure will have you wishing for a kayak under the tree this holiday season! Participants will depart from Riva Row Boat House in search of presents on our local shores.

Ages: All (recommended for 10 and under). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Fee: $40 per tandem (2 person) kayak.

Due to COVID-19, Township Parks and Recreation facilities, programs, services and events are subject to change, modification and/or cancellation to ensure compliance with respective State of Texas, Montgomery County and/or Harris County declarations and/or Township Board of Directors.