Blessed to Explore
We live in an efficiency and productivity-obsessed age. And I admit - I fall into the trap sometimes, too. The things that result in the highest level of control and least amount of uncertainty. But the truth is - that is really a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life.
We must leave some room for exploring. For trying new places and things. For being a beginner, and even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered, and trust to be built. I have moved a lot in my life, and Texas is the 10th state I have lived in. I have been so blessed in my career and life to get to explore a lot. I did a lot of it by myself, and with that, I went outside my comfort zone, at first, and saw things and met people I may never have met. If I hadn't moved to California on a whim, I would have never met two of my best friends. If I didn't happen to go on a dating app during COVID, I would have never met my husband and explored the country with him. I think the coolest part of exploration is seeing what a beautiful world we live in and how grateful we are to witness God's creation.
In the last few months, I've really been analyzing how our family operates as a unit and what we love spending our time doing. I've noticed that "adventures" and “exploration” don't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be dancing on our back deck, walking a new trail, attending a new event, or going out to find a fun cookie place we've never been to before in a different part of town.
Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To book that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar.
RACHEL SCHAFFNER, PUBLISHER @NBTXCITYLIFESTYLE
July 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
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sharice Washington (lynnburdellphotography@ gmail.com), Kustom Fence, Comal County Senior Citizen Foundation
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
Expert Roofing Solutions for a Safer Home
NB Roofing & Construction: Your Local Roofers
Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.
When finding someone to rely on for your roofing needs, NB Roofing goes above and beyond to make sure that your needs and expectations of your new roof are met.
Whether you need a new metal roof, replacing an old roof or fixing a roof due to weather damage, we install all over Central and South TX, but we call the New Braunfels area home.
We are commercial and metal roofing experts. We offer competitive pricing with excellent customer service.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Debbie, Rachel, and Lara enjoying the Keith Zars New Braunfels + NBTX City Lifestyle mixer 2: Spjork, the mashup band, putting on a show at Mayfest 3: Checking everyone in for the Book & Author Luncheon 4: Checking everyone in for the Women’s Business Alliance Luncheon 5: NB Public Library Foundation Board Members enjoying the Book & Author Luncheon 6: Rachel & Rein Rodriguez at Tricity Pain Associates celebration 7: Kevin & Lindy Joshua and Jennifer and Andrew Awe at Pink Warrior Advocates Pink Prom
Offering Exceptional Fencing and Gate Services Since 1978
Experience
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With chain link, ranch, wood, vinyl, and wrought iron fencing options available, we’re certain we can fulfill your every fencing need. Choose us for flexible and secure fencing options. Call us today for details.
Texas Functional & Regenerative Medicine Ribbon Cutting
Your health needs are just as unique as you, which is what Texas Functional & Regenerative Medicine aims to recognize and celebrate. Blending holistic care with functional and regenerative medicine, get ready to look and feel your best. With a mission to shape and mobilize the next generation of functional medicine, this center opened its doors to the community in April. 2115 Stephens Place #900, New Braunfels, TX, 78130
Photography by @nbtxchamber
New Braunfels Youth Collaborative Ribbon Cutting
May 9th was a big day for the New Braunfels Youth Collaborative (NBYC) as they cut the ribbon for the newly renovated Mill Street Youth Center Gymnasium. Built in 1855, the NBYC plans to provide a wide range of programs and activities for students when they aren’t buckling down for school. 430 W Mill St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Photography by
Group insurance and benefits can seem intimidating to many small (or large) businesses. 19:21 Consultants aims to take the stress out of finding the right insurance and benefits programs for your company. Whether you want to start small and scale or take care of every little thing, the team at 19:21 Consultants can help. 568 S Business IH 35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Photography by @nbtxchamber
Explore Where Home Begins
A fence isn’t just a perimeter—it’s the starting point for backyard living
With New Braunfels growing rapidly, fences have become more than just boundary markers. We sat down with Kustom Fence owner Mike Reneau to learn about the latest trends, material choices, installation challenges, and expert tips that will help you choose the perfect fence for your home.
Mike purchased the company in 2016, after two decades in decks and building leads. Today, crews like Eno (30+ years) and Vicente (25 years) carry expertise going back to the company’s inception in 1978. “When you hire us, you get nearly half a century of experience,” Mike says.
Local HOAs often limit designs to wrought iron or steel, with peeled-cedar “King Ranch” posts allowed in select neighborhoods like Vintage Oaks. Yet in newly developed subdivisions—where lots are smaller and many buyers arrive from out of state accustomed to wooden privacy fencing—solid wood panels are on the rise. “We're seeing an increase in privacy fences around here,” Mike says. People want to enjoy their outdoor space without feeling like they’re being watched. When asked about his favorite custom projects, Mike instantly said Coyote Fencing. Offering a unique, rustic look, this fencing is a favorite in the office. While more pricey than traditional wood privacy fencing, you can’t beat the one-of-a-kind look offered by this beautiful fence.
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KUSTOM FENCE
Because many customers are visual learners, Kustom Fence includes photos before breaking ground. Whether you’re drawn to sleek modern lines or traditional ornate gates (with personalized initials, pet motifs, or other custom designs), Mike’s 25-year partnership with a local fabricator ensures a picture-perfect result. Their crews weld steel square-tubing and pipe in-house, then prime and paint in your choice of color—black or dark brown for longevity, or even a matching primer shade if you want that rustic, weathered look.
SOME MATERIALS THAT KUSTOM FENCE OFFERS INCLUDE:
• Steel & Iron: Welded in-house to any design, primed and top-coated. Dark finishes last longer between repaints.
• Bare Pipe: Left unpainted to rust naturally for a rustic patina.
• Wood Privacy Fences: Ideal for seclusion, though staining every year for the first two coats is crucial to maintain color and protect the wood.
Custom Coyote Fencing installation
Before quoting, Mike asks: What’s your goal? Delineating property lines, keeping kids or pets in (or wildlife out), or boosting security? Answers determine panel height, ranch-wire opening sizes (smaller for goats, larger for horses), and gate placement. He advises building directly on your property line to avoid neighbor disputes— utility easements typically aren’t an issue, though you may need a gate for access to poles or equipment.
“Include drive-through gates up front,” Mike stresses. “Adding gates later can double your cost.” After building hundreds of fences, he’s seen too many homeowners regret skipping a second gate—until they plan a pool, shed, or trailer access.
West of the 35, rocky soils are the norm. While softer ground lets crews drive posts four or five feet deep, rocky sites often demand jackhammers. Kustom Fence keeps pricing simple— one flat rate regardless of rock, so customers aren’t surprised by extra fees.
All work carries a one-year warranty against settling posts, latch failures, or paint peeling. Mike even repainted a customer’s peeled-brown fence free of charge after three years, switching to a darker hue for durability.
Finishing up our conversation, Mike offers some final words of advice. “Don’t spend more money than you make,” Mike quips, echoing the counsel he gives his son. “Go with a reputable company.” Fly-by-night installers often set posts too shallow. A fence may seem simple, but get it wrong and it won’t stand.
Kustom Fence team
Custom walk gate with wood and metal
Adventure Awaits in Texas
Seven hidden gems in the heart of the Lonestar State
Texas is packed with hidden gems perfect for a weekend escape. Saddle up, because here’s your ultimate Texas bucket list.
1. Krause Springs, Spicewood
Just outside Austin, Krause Springs is the stuff of fairytales: more than 30 spring-fed pools tucked beneath live oaks and cypress. Slip into the cool water, then crank up the thrill with a detour to Longhorn Cavern State Park for an underground tour of Mother Nature’s cathedral of stone.
2. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, Volente Feeling brave? Head to Volente for the longest and fastest zipline in Texas. You’ll soar high over Lake Travis’s sparkling expanse, wind whipping past as you clock speeds up to 50 mph.
3. Lady Bird Lake, Austin
Keep it retro with a pedal boat rental on Lady Bird Lake. Glide past the city skyline, then cap off your evening with a stay at The Loren Hotel. Think rooftop cocktails and date-night vibes that prove Austin isn’t all cowboy boots and barbecue.
4. Parasailing in Corpus Christi
Trade the Hill Country for the Gulf Coast breeze. Parasail off the shores of Corpus Christi for stunning aerial views. Once you’ve landed back on the sand, pop over to the Texas State Aquarium, where playful dolphins await.
5. Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, Round Mountain
Book the guided canyon hike at Westcave and step into a hidden waterfall grotto that’ll have you thinking you traveled back to the Jurassic. Towering ferns and sunlight dancing through the canopy make for the perfect photo op.
6. Balmorhea State Park, Toyahvale
This oasis in the desert is the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. Grab your snorkel and float among native fish in crystal-clear 72°F waters—an unbeatable way to beat the heat.
7. Island Adventure Park, South Padre Island
Finish your Texas tour with a sunset horseback ride along South Padre’s sandy shores. Listen to the waves lapping at hooves as the perfect finale to your Lone Star escapade.
Texas is packed with hidden gems perfect for a weekend escape.
Go horseback riding at South Padre Island
Get out on Lady Bird Lake
Go parasailing at Corpus Christi
Relax at Krause Springs
Step into the Jurassic in Round Mountain
Zoom down the zipline in Volente
THE ADVENTURE Continues
REDISCOVERING PURPOSE, CONNECTION, AND JOY AT THE 7TEN CENTER
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COMAL COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS FOUNDATION
The 7Ten Center is the start to many amazing stories
In the heart of New Braunfels, a local non-profit is rewriting the narrative of aging, transforming retirement into a vibrant phase of exploration. Whether it’s trying something new after a loss, picking up a long-forgotten hobby, or simply finding connection, the programs offered at the 7Ten Center, operated by the Comal County Senior Citizens Foundation (CCSCF) open doors for hundreds of seniors in the community.
As part of our July “Explore” issue, we sat down with Chris Smith, Executive Director of the CCSCF, to learn how they’re helping seniors defy the outdated stigma that retirement marks the end of adventure. In truth, for many, it’s just the beginning.
For some members, exploration starts with healing. The center offers a space where seniors can build new friendships and rediscover joy, often after a life-changing event like the death of a spouse or a move to a new city.
One member, recently widowed and new to New Braunfels, shared, “My life was so sad. But I’ve come here, met new friends, and now I feel like I belong again.” Her story is one of many, highlighting the CCSCF as a bridge from isolation to engagement.
Members explore hobbies like woodcarving, knitting, and gardening, and are encouraged to shape the center’s programs through feedback. A recent suggestion for a conversational Spanish group sparked plans to recruit a retiring local Spanish teacher. “Exploration,” Chris went on to say, “is in everything we do. It’s never too late to start something new.”
Water aerobics are a fun way to stay in shape
Coffee and conversations are a daily occurrence at the 7Ten Center
The center’s fitness group encourages members (most in their 70s) to challenge themselves through programs like aerobics, Tai Chi, water aerobics, and chair yoga. “They’re not done yet,” Chris said with a smile. “They’re floating in the pool, enjoying life. It’s a whole new world to them.”
Another aspect of the CCSCF focuses on the shared experience of a group meal, offered free to those 60 and older. The meal provides more than just nutrition— it fosters community.
For many on fixed incomes, this daily offering also eases the burden of food insecurity. Feedback on a recent change in food providers was overwhelmingly positive, a testament to how even small changes can have a big impact.
Some of the most impactful work happens beyond the center’s walls. For seniors who are homebound, the 7Ten Center delivers not just meals but that vital sense of connection. Volunteers check in daily, often becoming the only human contact these seniors have.
senior, regardless of circumstance, continues to feel part of the community.
Exploration at the center also means building bridges between generations. During the center’s Senior Prom, “One woman attended her first prom at 70,” Chris shared. “She came with her adult son, and they were crowned prom king and queen.”
More than a senior center, the 7Ten Center is just the start of continued exploration of life, joy, and community.
Regular social events like masquerade dances, veterans’ coffee chats, and community garden projects with local students keep the energy lively and the connections meaningful. Despite its impact, the center faces challenges. Federal funding for meals has reverted to pre-pandemic levels while food costs have doubled. With a monthly food bill of $30,000, fundraising has become critical. Their first fundraising dinner, which happened in June (Sizzlin for Seniors), aimed to close some of that gap, but long-term sustainability remains a focus.
“We tell them they’re not forgotten,” Chris said. “We show up with meals, smiles, and time to talk.” Volunteers often go above and beyond, delivering pet food, arranging yard work, and staying alert for changes in their clients’ well-being. This holistic approach ensures that every
Still, the outlook is hopeful. With 55 new members joining in a single month, momentum is growing. The 7Ten Center hopes to expand services and eliminate waiting lists for home-delivered meals.
More than a senior center, the 7Ten Center is just the start of continued exploration of life, joy, and community. And as its members prove daily, the spirit of adventure doesn’t have an age limit.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT PEAR FIZZ
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
LIME MINT
ROSE MOJITO
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions: Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
Landa Lake Fireworks for the Fourth
Some of the best views are in Landa Park. Be sure to get there before the show to secure your seats. Bring your lawn chairs.
Fredericksburg Baseball Fields
The baseball fields back right up to Landa Park. As with other spots, be prepared to arrive early to claim your spot before the approximate 9:15 p.m. start time.
Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs
Many residents have been coming to the golf course at Landa Park for years. Seating on the golf course usually begins around 6 p.m. and the putting greens are off limits.
If you don’t mind potentially missing some of the smaller fireworks, then heading to Fischer Park for the show can help you beat some of the crowds and still see the big fireworks.
Parking Lot behind New Braunfels High School
Relatively close to Landa Park, you can usually park and watch the show from New Braunfels High School’s parking lot. Be sure to have a Plan B in case the lot is closed.
Landa Park
Fischer Park
Firecracker Cocktail
ARTICLE BY THE VILLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARICE WASHINGTON
Built on the backbone of deep, warm, aged rum, The Villa created the Firecracker Cocktail to be a refreshing, bright drink with a kick. Starting with citrusy and fruity notes from the watermelon, Triple Sec, and freshly squeezed lime juice, the flavors deepen with the rich, smooth notes of the aged rum. Then, get a hit of firecracker spice with cayenne pepper that gives a nice little spicy tingle on the back of your tongue. Experience this adventure while relaxing in the breezeway or shooting darts in the game room.
Ingredients:
• 1 ½ oz of aged rum
• ½ oz Triple Sec
• ½ oz Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed)
• ½ oz Simple Syrup
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
• 2 1-inch-cubed Watermelon Chunks
• Lime wedge for garnish
Directions:
Step 1. Fill the shaker with ice, add your ingredients, and shake vigorously.
Step 2. Strain the mixture into a glass with ice.
Step 3. Garnish with a wedge of lime and your watermelon cubes.
Step 4. Enjoy!
This magazine exists because Rachel said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
NBTX City Lifestyle
Published by Rachel Loved by NBTX
realty report
JULY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING
LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 11TH
The String Cheese Incident at Whitewater Amphitheater
11860 FM 306, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 6:30 PM
Enjoy the tunes at the Whitewater Amphitheater. The String Cheese Incident (known for their unique bluegrass tunes that blends influences from rock, reggae, and jazz) will be performing on July 11 and 12 on the river and under the stars. Tickets start at around $55 for general admission. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The show begins at 8:00 p.m.
JULY 12TH
1st Annual Coffee Festival at 13 Trees Coffee Haus
1450 West Klein Road, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 AM
Coffee aficionado’s get their time to shine at the 1st Annual Coffee Festival hosted by 13 Trees Coffee Haus. Coffee, live music, and fun activities (like brewing demonstrations and coffee tastings) await. Local roasters and vendors will be here, so you can grab a good cup of joe to start your Saturday. Tickets are $10 and parking is free.
JULY 15TH
Coffee With a Cop
895 FM 306 Suite B, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 2:00 PM
Want to fuel up while learning more about community safety and the remarkable officers that serve New Braunfels? Coffee With a Cop (being hosted at All Drive Training Academy this month) is your chance to do just that. Ask any questions, talk about community safety, and just get to know the amazing officers from 2 to 4 p.m.
www.elevatedeyecaretx.com |
1750 E Common St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 V@elevatedeyecaretx
CONTINUED
JULY 19TH
1st Annual VillapaloozaLokal Music & Art Fest!
1190 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 10:30 AM
Featuring 100% homegrown music and art, Villapalooza is a two-day celebration showcasing all the amazing talent in our community. Starting July 19th and lasting until the 20th, this event will include 22 artists across two stages with live mural paintings and other art vendors. Proceeds will be going to three local non-profits. Come on out for a great cause.
JULY 19TH
Stars and Stripes
Half Marathon
1178 Kroesche Ln, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 6:30 AM
Take in the beautiful sights as you run along country roads at the Stars and Stripes Half Marathon and 5K/10K. Join the Athlete Guild and run one of the fastest, flattest races in the Hill Country. All courses start and stop at the Stars and Stripes Drive-In. Every participant receives a tech race t-shirt and a custom finisher medal.
JULY 20TH
Smock It To Me! - Artist Smock Workshop
968 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 2:00 PM
Hosted by The ARTitude Cottage, create your own one-of-a-kind smock for all your artsy creations. Registration covers your smock (available in small, medium, or large) along with all the creative goodies to go along with making your creation. Reserve your spot early as spaces are limited.
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