Here are 5 things to know this week if you live in The Woodlands area.

1. Montgomery County commissioners will meet Tuesday morning and will canvass the results of the Nov. 8 election. The court will also consider showing support for a proposal from the Texas Department of Transportation that would rename the Grand Parkway to Mayor Bob Lanier Memorial Parkway after the former Houston mayor. In a special session, the court will also discuss the employment and duties of the potential new Montgomery County Animal Shelter director. The court meets at 9:30 a.m. in the Montgomery County Administration Building at 501 N. Thompson St., Conroe.

2. The 27th annual GE Run Thru The Woods event on Thanksgiving morning in Town Center includes the choice of a 5-mile run, 3-mile run, 3-mile walk and a 1-mile children’s race. The event, which is directed by The Woodlands Family YMCA, is a source of fundraising for local charities. Runner must register before race day. For more details, visit www.runthruthewoods.org.

3. The Woodlands Township board of directors will meet at 4 p.m. Monday to canvass returns from the Nov. 8 election. Three new board members were elected Nov. 8, including Brian Boniface, John Anthony Brown and Bruce Rieser. Incumbent Gordy Bunch was also re-elected. The board will also be briefed on the board of directors' officer nomination process, which will be the first item of business during its regular meeting at 6 p.m. Nov. 30.

4. Small Business Saturday takes place this weekend across the U.S. to draw attention to small and family-owned businesses. Last year, the event generated $16.2 billion in retail sales nationwide. Find a list of local retail options in The Woodlands here.

5. Looking for an activity to do with family this week? The Riva Row and Lakes Edge boat houses will be open daily this week with the exception of Thanksgiving. Hours for kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals run from 9 a.m. to sunset, with the last rentals one hour before sunset. Family dogs are also welcome to ride in kayaks. For more information, visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/rivarowboathouse.