Let's learn from our Kids & Pets
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents, aunts, grandparents, Godparents, and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives. I know watching my nephews and nieces grow up has been one of the most amazing joys in my life. Being an "Aunt RaRa" to them and my friends' kids has been such a blessing, and I hope they know how much meaning and love they have put in my life.
But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
I grew up on a farm and didn't ever really have a pet growing up. I didn't understand how much a pet (or, in my case now, a furry family member) can impact your life. I am forever grateful for my little Zoe girl, who came into my life almost 12 years ago! She is one of the best things that has happened to me. There is a quote: "Be the person your dog thinks you are." I love that quote because that is all they know how to do is love, and we should strive to be more like them with unconditional love.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better. Cheers!
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Rachel Schaffner | rachel.schaffner@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lauren Mendez | lauren.mendez@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Villa | info@drinklokal.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sharice Washington (lynnburdellphotography@gmail.com), Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
1750 E Common St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 V@elevatedeyecaretx
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Jedi Training crew at the New Braunfels ImagiNation Kids Expo 2: Kelly enjoying the Farmer’s Market at 13 Trees Coffee Haus 3: Executive Director Chris and Tori Smith at the Sizzlin’ for Seniors BBQ at the CCSCF 4: The Schaffners on honeymoon running into Matt & Kaysa Pierce on St. John USVI 5: Kelly and Briana enjoying the grand reopening at Otto’s Cheese Shop 6: Ameilee, Lexi and Tre’ at Water 2 Wine serving some smiles at Trivia 7: Caring Senior Services crew at Market Days for Memories
business monthly
Tazikis Mediterranean Cafe Ribbon Cutting
Feel like you’re part of the family whenever you visit Taziki’s for a bite to eat. Offering fresh flavors with homemade dips, salad bowls, soups, gyros, pita, and more, you can get your fill of Mediterranean flavors when you stop by. With outdoor patio seating and opening hours that cover lunch and dinner, it’s time to live the good life.
Photography by @nbtxchamber
is the mission of CASA of Central Texas. From providing high-quality, best interest advocacy for children and youth to training, CASA volunteers deliver the best care. CASA plans to make a difference to the children in the Central Texas community. The New Braunfels location held its ribbon-cutting ceremony at the start of June.
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Legends & Loot Grand Opening
Whether you’re a tabletop gamer, want to get your hands on unique loot, or simply want to spend time with others who share similar interests, you can do it all at Legends & Loot. This unique shop opened its doors to the public on June 7, with owner Joe Leon welcoming any and all. The business intends to become an official play place for tabletop games, welcoming matches for D&D, Warhammer, and Pokémon TCG.
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Photography by @kellyshearing
Photography by @nbtxchamber
WHERE YESTERDAY IS ALWAYS IN STOCK
Nestled in the lively heart of downtown New Braunfels is a little shop full of sugar, smiles, and stories. Chelsea Rogers, owner of Le Petit Sweet and River Rose Boutique, talks about what started as a simple “This town needs a candy store!” idea quickly blossomed into a local favorite. She saw something missing in a downtown filled with restaurants, coffee shops, and bars. But, she didn’t just want to sell candy—she wanted to build a downtown staple that welcomes kids, families, and anyone craving a taste of something sweet. And oh, the nostalgia! From peachy rings and chocolate-covered gummy bears to treats like McCraw’s flat taffy and Mallow Cups, this shop is a candy-coated time machine. If you’ve got a childhood favorite you haven’t seen in decades, there’s a good chance it’s on the shelf (or soon will be).
But this sweet spot is about more than sugar. It’s a place where memories are made and shared. People swap candy stories, kids giggle over those classic wax bottles, and seasonal events like “Mom and Me Mahjong” and Santa visits turn the shop into a downtown staple. It’s fun, it’s bright. It’s welcoming. It’s the perfect place to round out a fun-filled day.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY SHEARING
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HOW HSNBA HELPS PETS FIND THEIR HAPPILY EVER AFTER
From Kennels to Couches
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HSNBA
“I don’t want more cages. I want more couches in people’s homes.” - Sarah Hammond
At the Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area, or HSNBA as locals know it, there’s one big dream for every dog and cat that walks through the shelter’s doors. A soft couch. A loving human (and perhaps some tiny humans, too). And a home to call their own.
“We don’t need more cages. We need more couches,” says Sarah Hammond, Executive Director of HSNBA. It’s more than a catchy phrase. It’s the shelter’s driving belief. Every program, every decision, and every volunteer hour goes toward the goal of placing animals in safe, loving homes.
Every adoption at HSNBA is a small victory. And every foster who opens up their home for a night, a week, or a month is part of the magic. But these wins don’t just happen by chance. It takes structure, heart, and a whole lot of teamwork.
Take their Doggie Day Out and foster-to-adopt programs. These give potential adopters a chance to really get to know an animal outside the shelter setting. Sarah calls it a game changer. “You get to see the dog in a home, lounging on a couch, being themselves,” she says. That laid-back dog who freezes in a kennel? Turns out they’re a snuggler, a goofball, or maybe even a couch potato.
Fostering also plays a huge role in transforming animals who need more time. “We had this dog that would be fine one minute and snapping at the air the next,” Sarah recalls. “We couldn’t figure it out. Was it pain? Was it fear?” With help from their staff behavior coordinator, a patient family, and some thoughtful vet care, the dog was placed in a home that gave her a real shot. Today, she’s doing great.
At HSNBA, the focus is always on quality of life for animals and for people. “We can save every adoptable, treatable animal that comes into our shelter,” Sarah says. “But we can’t do it alone.”
It takes a village to keep HSNBA running. And it runs like a very busy, very compassionate machine.
With the help of their behavior and enrichment team, the staff keeps a close eye on which animals need extra support, structure, or time before being adopted. The Focus List shares which dogs are struggling and what they need. Whether it’s more positive behavior notes, fresh photos, or just a little help from a friend, the list makes sure no animal slips through the cracks.
“We had one dog, Goofus,” Sarah says with a smile. “The only picture we had of him was his intake photo, which wasn’t great. He’s heartworm positive, so we need a foster for treatment. But we had to get better pictures first, and some meet-and-greets lined up.”
These action plans work. By making sure everyone knows who needs the most help, HSNBA gives each animal the best chance to leave the shelter for a better life.
And sometimes, that life begins with just the right groomer or vet.
Pink Poodle Pet Grooming plays a key role in that transformation. Owner Diana works closely with rescuers and foster groups to make sure dogs are clean, comfortable, and adoption-ready—often free of charge.
“When they bring in dogs who’ve been rescued— sometimes 10 or 20 at a time—I’ll take them in, get
They’re smart, and they remember. When they trust you, everything changes. - Diane “ ”
them cleaned up, and help them look their best for photos,” she says. “I don’t charge them because they’re already paying for vetting, food, and transport. A good groom just helps the dog get adopted faster.”
Diana’s team has seen it all—dogs who can’t be touched, who don’t recognize each other after a shave, who need time and trust just to stand on the table. But with a little patience and compassion, Diane says, most come around. “They’re smart, and they remember. When they trust you, everything changes.”
For Diana, every happy ending—every follow-up photo of a clean, smiling dog in a new home—is a reminder of why she does what she does. “I always say, your best dogs are your rescue dogs,” she says. “They might take time. But when they open up, they’re amazing.”
Just down the road, Creek View Veterinary Clinic plays another vital role in the HSNBA ecosystem.
Dr. Rierson, who leads the team, says the clinic sees everything from traumatic injuries to critical illnesses in shelter animals.
“We’ve treated parvo, done limb amputations, even handled gunshot wounds,” Dr. Rierson says. “These are animals who wouldn’t get care otherwise.”
Creek View also partners with HSNBA on its vital Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) program for community cats—providing spay/neuter services and vaccines at no cost to the public. “It’s about animal health and human health,” Dr. Rierson explains. “Without this program, these cats would likely never receive any medical care in their entire lives.”
The clinic’s involvement began years ago when Dr. Rierson, a New Braunfels native, recognized a disconnect between shelters and veterinary care in the community. “Sarah Hammond has done a great job building bridges,” he says. “It’s what inspired us to get involved.”
Some cases are especially unforgettable—like Allie, a dog who needed femoral head surgery to walk again. A veterinary student helped with the procedure, and the dog was named in honor of his wife. Then there was Sammie, a cat
with a fractured hind limb surrendered by an overwhelmed adopter. Thanks to surgical intervention, Sammie kept the leg, and later found a loving forever home.
“We love seeing the recovery journey,” Dr. Rierson says. “It reminds us why we do this work in the first place.”
These partnerships are part of a growing network of local support that helps HSNBA do more with less— and helps animals feel better, look better, and get adopted faster.
HSNBA also takes pride in growing people, not just programs. Staff members have gone on to careers in veterinary medicine, animal behavior, or nonprofit work.
“If you’ve got heart and you want to learn, we’ll teach you,” Sarah says. “It’s a great first job, especially for people who really want to work with animals.”
Then there’s kitten season, when suddenly it feels like the shelter is bursting at the seams. “In nine days, our population doubled,” Sarah says. “We went from 200 animals to 400.” The strain is real. And that’s why fostering matters so much.
“We don’t need more buildings,” Sarah says again. “We need more couches. We need people to open their homes for a few days or weeks so we can treat the animals that need extra time.”
If there’s one message Sarah wants the community to hear, it’s this: “We can end the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals. But only if you help us. We cannot do it by ourselves.”
Whether it’s fostering, adopting, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every bit of support matters. HSNBA doesn’t want to build more cages. They want to fill more homes with purrs and tail wags.
So if you’ve got a couch and some love to give, chances are there’s a dog or cat who’s just waiting for you. And they might be closer than you think.
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WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tbsp white flour
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp vanilla
Steps:
BY JANIE JONES
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
• 4 tbsp buttermilk
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 tsp nutmeg or cinnamon
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tbsp of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
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Ok, maybe not lunch, but you get the idea Rates rose significantly over the past couple of years, after hitting record lows in 2020 and 2021 (ah, the good old days) Since then, they’ve been on a bit of a roller coaster Buyers are adjusting, sellers are strategizing, and everyone is asking: Is it a good time to buy? Should I refinance? Will they ever go back down? Here’s the truth: trying to time the mortgage market is like trying to predict the next plot twist in a soap opera Instead of stressing over whether rates will drop next month or spike next week, it’s smarter to focus on your personal goals Are you ready to buy? Are you looking to move up, downsize, or finally buy that dreamy hill country home with a porch swing? And remember mortgage rates are just one piece of the puzzle A good lender can help you explore options like rate buydowns or adjustable-rate loans A good real estate agent (wink, wink) can help you negotiate smartly and make the most of the current market. So, while no one has a crystal ball, one thing is clear: real estate is still moving, families are still making memories in new homes, and yes, we’re all still talking about mortgage rates A lot The best advice? Stay informed, stay calm, and surround yourself with professionals who know the market and have your back
Rates may rise and fall but home is always worth the investment
Four-Legged Locals You’ll Love
PROOF THAT NEW BRAUNFELS HAS THE CUTEST RESIDENTS
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING
Zoe keeping it cool at the beach (@rachelschaffner) Avocado with a picture perfect pose (@kellyshearing)
Audi-O and Hear-O riding back to Hear in Texas (@Christy Bard)
Wandering through the streets of downtown or enjoying the nightlife scene, chances are you’ve seen a wagging tail or two. From bars that allow your best four legged friend to come along to parks that are the perfect spot for a morning walk; New Braunfels rolls out the red carpet for our furry friends.
Around here, pets are more than just a home companion, they are every day adventurers tagging along for wherever their paw-rents go next. They’re family, and New Braunfels embraces our furry friends with open arms.
Pets and kids seem to go paw in hand, bringing joy, chaos, and plenty of cuddle time to our lives. What’s more heartwarming than a baby's belly laugh at their dog’s playful antics? A kitty and kiddo cuddle pile? A child’s eyes lighting up when they hold their pet lizard (or bird) for the first time? You’d be hard pressed to find a more perfect match. So, let’s celebrate these pets loud and proud this month as they soak up the snuggles in their furever homes.
Millie, Eden, and Kuri
(@Amberlee Jeanella Renfro)
Yoakam relaxing in Gruene (@Shelly Armstrong)
Bri & Opal swinging at the park (@Savanah Aguilar)
Frankie the Pug at Clay Casa (@frankie_the_pug)
Hank from the Bank (@Suzanne Michelle)
Kevin enjoying his pool day (@Brittany McDonald)
Buddy enjoyinga day out (@AnnMarie Garza)
Ellie posing for the camera (@Mary Suzanne Kraft)
Pinnie ready to play ball (@Dee Hagerty)
Sister, Paisley, and Honey sitting still for 0.5 seconds (@Brittany Vasquez)
The Cats of Comaltex (@Kristine Eilers)
Dexter in his dashing shirt (@Leigh Anne DuBose)
Ms Moo and KJ smiling for the camera (@Bryanna Rod)
Pearl ready for the day's adventures
(@Katie Jean)
Maggie soaking in the sun (@Brittany Vasquez)
Coco with her beautiful smile (@Glenda Denison)
Whiskey seeing the world from another angle (@Hailee Carroll)
Dogs of The Oscar at Veramendi (@Jennifer Lester)
Lizzie telling us what's on her mind (@Kate Johnston)
PENCIL ERASER MARTINI
Beat the Texas heat with a sip of something unforgettable—perfect for pretending school’s not right around the corner. The Villa’s Pencil Eraser Martini is your new summer fling. Bright, fruity, and just the right amount of kick to keep things interesting. Cool off, chill out, and sip all August long on The Villa’s breezeway. Trust us, this is what your perfect summer needed.
Ingredients:
• 1 cut Lemon wedge
• 3 Strawberries, hulled and quartered lengthwise
• 4 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz vodka
• 4 oz Cranberry Juice
Directions:
1. Fill the shaker with ice, add your ingredients, and shake vigorously.
2. Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
3. Garnish with a lemon wedge and your strawberries.
4. Enjoy!
ARTICLE BY THE VILLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARICE WASHINGTON
AUGUST 2ND
Summer Reading Program: Wrap-up Party!
2910 IH35 Frontage Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 10:00 AM
Celebrate a summer of reading at the Summer Reading Program: Wrap-up Party! Hosted at the Westside Library & Community Center, you can enjoy live music and a foam party. The Wrapup Party will start at 10 a.m. and finish around 1 p.m.
AUGUST 9TH
Cory Morrow at Gruene Hall
1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 PM
Gruene Hall welcomes Cory Morrow with his transparent tunes that are a peak behind the curtain at Morrow’s life. With songs like “Whiskey & Pride” and “Always and Forever,” this is one show you won’t want to miss. Doors open at 8 p.m. and Cory hits the stage (after the opener) around 10:30 p.m. Tickets start at around $30.
AUGUST 16TH
Cars & Coffee
553 South Business IH-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 AM
Cars. Coffee. Treats. What’s not to love about the monthly Cars & Coffee event hosted by Tint World? Show off your ride (any makes and models are welcome), enjoy complimentary coffee and treats, and let the kids enjoy seeing all the unique cars. Extra parking is available in surrounding lots for this fun-filled, free event.
This magazine is how Rachel redefined success.
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AUGUST 17TH
New Braunfels Bridal Expo
375 S. Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 12:00 PM
Looking for a fun day where you can come away with some fun and beautiful ideas for your upcoming wedding? The New Braunfels Bridal Expo promises just that with a Bridal Fashion Show, wedding planning ideas, 70+ vendors, and an opportunity to receive a gift card from Forevermore Jewelry for two free wedding bands. Expo lasts until 4 p.m.
AUGUST 22ND
Fore the Ducks
Inaugural Golf Outing
180 Golf Course Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 AM
Benefitting wetlands conservation efforts, the inaugural Fore the Ducks golf outing not only lets you get out on the course and have a great time, but you can also win raffle prizes and take part in fun games. Lunch is provided, and there are sponsorship opportunities available. Get there early, as there is an 8 a.m. shotgun start.
AUGUST 24TH
Mystic Market Holistic Fair
375 S. Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 12:00 PM
Heal your mind, body, and spirit at the Mystic Market Holistic Fair at the New Braunfels Convention Center. Completely indoors, free admission, and free parking, what’s not to love?
Learn about holistic wellness, connect with your community, and find some unique gifts and products for you or your loved ones. Unwind and recharge.
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