It's A Guy Thing
June is the month to celebrate fathers. When I think of June and Father’s Day, I think of growing up in Missouri. This is the time when dads get to do all the outdoor things they want to do without having to do the “honey-do” list that day. I love that, but I think this June we should celebrate men in such a big way!
I think society reveres men who provide for their family, can cook a perfect steak on the grill, be “Mr. Fix-It” around the house, and ensure the “bacon” they bring home sets them and their family up for success. I think that is amazing, and kudos to all of you men who have mastered this! However, I want to give a shoutout to all the men out there showing up for their wives, partners, kids, friends, family, and community. That is really something to be revered.
Growing up, most men are told to “suck it up.” I think it is amazing when a man can be not only a strong presence but also have a soft approach to life. I believe if we build up our men instead of tearing them down, we can achieve so much together as a society. I love it when you see a couple building each other up and helping each other succeed through life. I love seeing a father teaching a son how to hold a door open for a woman, throw a curveball, or talk with him about his feelings or why it's OK to cry. I love it when a niece or nephew looks up to an Uncle like a second father because that uncle loves them like his own.
For women, it is so easy to go out and have a girls' night to relax and unwind. I think that is lacking for men today. This June, I challenge all the dads, uncles, friends, grandpas, and guys to just take it a bit slower, watch the sunset, and remember that you are here and loved by your tribe. Do something that you love this month. Whatever you decide, know we women are rooting for you and appreciate all you do! After all, we don’t really know what you go through on a daily basis because it’s a guy thing.
Cheers!
RACHEL SCHAFFNER, PUBLISHER @NBTXCITYLIFESTYLE
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Rachel Schaffner | rachel.schaffner@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lauren Mendez | lauren.mendez@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Jessica Safavimehr | jessica.safavimehr@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Kelly Shearing | kelly.shearing@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Mariah Wasserman | earth.god.dessphoto@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The Reserve on 1863
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kountry Acres Landscaping LLC, The Taproot, HomeFront: Heating & Air
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE
@CONNECTIONSIFS
1: The Connections Individual and Family Services team at their spring CREATE event 2: That’s What She Read Book Club enjoying a night out at Clay Casa 3: Popbelly’s Popcorn with all your movie watching essentials 4: New Braunfels Biker Association at their annual cook-off, raising funds for local children in need 5: Herietta, Beverly, and the Brauntex team honoring the Brauntex Theatre’s donors and sponsors 6: Woods Cycle Country hosting a VIP Evening Under the Stars Kick-Off Party 7: Hawkes Outdoor celebrating its grand opening in New Braunfels
EdenHill Communities Celebrates 116 Years
EdenHill Communities celebrates 116 years of compassionate service, faith, and community in Central Texas. From its beginnings in 1910 to its stunning New Braunfels campus today, EdenHill continues to provide a welcoming place where residents can live with care, connection, and dignity. Nestled on a scenic 27-acre campus, this continuing care retirement community offers resort-style amenities, maintenance-free living, and a full continuum of services
Photography by EdenHill Communities
Treetop Pediatric Dentistry Moved Into Oak Run Spot
Treetop Pediatric Dentistry has opened a new office at 3355 Oak Run Pkwy in New Braunfels. Dr. Brandon Shamblin founded the practice around the belief that a great dental experience at an early age changes a kid's relationship with dental care for life. He and associate Dr. Jillian Seglem lead a team known for visiting kids who actually ask to come back.
Photography by @treetoppediatricdentistry
WFG National TitleNew Braunfels Ribbon Cutting
WFG National Title - New Braunfels celebrated its ribbon cutting. The ribbon cutting marked an exciting new chapter for the local office and its growing team. Through title insurance and escrow services, WFG National Title is ready to guide buyers, sellers, and lenders through smooth, secure real estate closings in the heart of New Braunfels.
Photography by @nbtxchamber
Christian Brother Automotive Awards Foundation Grants
Christian Brothers Automotive in New Braunfels recently awarded two $10,000 grants to Operation Triage and the CRRC Canyon Lake, supporting vital services for local residents. Beyond giving back, the team provides trusted auto repair and maintenance with a focus on transparency, customer care, and keeping New Braunfels drivers safely on the road at Christian Brothers Automotive.
Photography by @cbanewbraunfels
WHERE MUSIC SPARKS COMMUNITY AT GRUENE GROVE
MUSIC IN THE GROVE
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE TAPROOT
“WE NEVER WANTED TO CHANGE NEW BRAUNFELS, ONLY ADD TO IT.”
When Chris talks about Gruene Grove, he doesn’t talk about the business plan. He gravitates to talking about how this historic place offers a sense of home. Of place. That feeling is part of what makes Gruene Grove so special. Tucked into one of the most historic corners of New Braunfels, the venue has grown into a gathering spot where live music, local history, and community spirit come together every day.
Chris and his business partner, Kyle, came upon the space in November 2017. What began as a simple opportunity quickly turned into something much bigger. Kyle first visited with plans tied to his ice cream business, but after hearing about the lease, the idea shifted fast. As Chris put it, “It was just like kismet. It was one of those special moments.” When Kyle asked, “Should we open a bar?” Chris did not hesitate. “Do it! Sign it now!”
“WE’RE SELLING MARGARITAS AND MEMORIES. WE KNOW THAT WE’RE PART OF PEOPLE’S VACATIONS, AND WE KNOW WE’RE PART OF PEOPLE’S MEMORIES.”
That decision led to a place with a story of its own. Gruene Grove sits in the old Gruene family home, and honoring that history matters deeply to the team. As Chris shared, “We just love the history of it all.” He and his team even greet the home in the morning, a small but heartfelt way of showing respect for the space and its past.
For Chris, the heart of Gruene Grove is not only in its history but in the feeling guests carry home with them. “Y’all means all,” he said, describing a place built to welcome locals, visitors, families, and friends. He also summed up the venue in one simple phrase: “We’re selling margaritas and memories.” That spirit shows up in every corner of the property, from the drinks and food to the staff and music.
Live music remains a major part of the mission. Gruene Grove offers music seven days a week, which fits right into the larger rhythm of Gruene itself. Chris loves that the area is known for its music scene and says the goal was never to change Gruene, only to add to it. He sees the town as one of a kind. A place
where river life, German roots, and world-class music all come together in a way no other town can quite match.
Some of the venue’s favorite events have become true community traditions. The Pup Parade brings in dogs dressed for the season and supports the Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area. Stray Dawg’s Blues Fest celebrates blues music and gives Texas artists a stage. The One S in New Braunfels Fest honors local pride and helps kick off Wurstfest season. Gruene Grove has also become a place people turn to during hard times, opening its doors for fundraisers, memorials, and relief efforts when the community needs it most.
What stands out most is the way Gruene Grove welcomes all ages. Families can come for ice cream, food, or a show, and kids can stand in front of the stage and watch live music up close. As Chris shared, “One of my favorite things to do is watching young kids stand in front of the stage. They will stand there, and they’re mesmerized.” It is the kind of place where young children may grow into future musicians and where memories are made without much effort at all.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When in all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
THE WELLKEPT YARD
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KOUNTRY ACRES LANDSCAPING LLC
KOUNTRY ACRES LANDSCAPING TALKS
SUMMER LAWN CARE IN NEW BRAUNFELS
“If you want a great yard, consistency matters more than anything else.”
When summer rolls into New Braunfels, weeds usually get the head start. With our unpredictable late-winter and early-spring weather, warm days arrive just early enough for weeds to wake up before grass fully comes out of dormancy. That tricky timing can make pre-emergent treatments easy to miss, and suddenly, flower beds, rock beds, and lawns feel like they exploded overnight. It is a cycle homeowners know well, and one that keeps Luke, owner of Kountry Acres Landscaping LLC, busy every year.
The biggest surprise for many homeowners? Summer lawn problems often start months earlier.
“Most of the time when we start for spring and summer, it always comes down to huge cleanups,” Luke said. Fall and winter neglect quietly stack up until warm weather exposes everything at once. Flower beds overflow, weeds creep into rock and mulch, and suddenly the yard feels overwhelming.
And in Texas, timing matters. Waiting until summer to fix problems is like playing catch-up in triple-digit heat. “If you don’t take care of your weed issue before spring, you’re going to battle it all summer,” Luke explained.
Even watering is not always the easy solution people imagine. Between drought restrictions and rising costs, keeping a lawn green requires strategy, consistency, and sometimes a reality check. “It’s a hit or miss in Texas,” Luke said. “When it gets really hot, the grass slows down just like it does in winter.”
Still, a great-looking yard is absolutely doable. The key is consistency and simple habits that compound over time. Luke compares lawn care to something most people already understand. “Your grass is like a haircut. The more you manicure it, it learns to grow that way.”
For homeowners thinking about upgrading curb appeal, Luke often recommends blending traditional lawn areas with xeriscaping. The payoff is twofold: strong visual contrast and less watering. That can mean fewer surprises when the NBU bill arrives. From there, Luke focuses on color contrast and materials that complement the home. River rock pairs beautifully with lighter exteriors, while darker homes pop with Texas black rock. Fresh mulch, trimmed beds, and crisp edges tie everything together and give the yard that polished, finished look.
But whether you DIY or call in help, the message stays simple. “If you want your yard to look good, you’ve got to put in the effort. Or hire somebody to do it.”
CONTINUED >
HOW TO GET YOUR LAWN
SUMMER-READY
STEP 1: START WITH WEED AND FEED
Texas weeds multiply fast and show up in every corner of the yard. Begin summer prep with a weed-and-feed treatment so grass gets nutrients while weeds are stopped early. As Luke put it, “If you see one weed, two days later you’ll see three or four.” Getting ahead of them now saves weeks of frustration later.
STEP 2: FERTILIZE ANDSTRENGTHEN THE SOIL
Once weeds are handled, it is time to feed the lawn properly. A strong fertilizer helps grass green up and hold on during heat waves. Luke often recommends a soil-neutralizing fertilizer to boost overall lawn health and fill in weak areas. Think of this step as building your lawn’s summer survival kit.
STEP 3: WATER SMART AND MOW LIKE CLOCKWORK
Water consistently, with the city’s water status in mind. Then commit to mowing weekly whenever possible. Regular mowing keeps growth even, encourages thickness, and instantly makes the yard look finished.
STEP 4: STAY AHEAD AND PLAN FORWARD
Keep an eye on rock beds, xeriscaping, and bare spots. Pull weeds early and often before they spread. Remember that aeration works best in spring, and consider winter rye grass later in the year to keep your lawn greener and give next spring a head start.
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SUMMER GRILL
RECIPES
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
THESE DELICIOUS RECIPES ARE LIGHT, BRIGHT AND FEEL LIKE SUMMER
The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t disappoint. These pair well together or can stand on their own!
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place skirt steak into gallon freezer bag.
2. Combine all other ingredients in bowl and mix. Pour over steak and marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight in the fridge.
3. Bring skirt steak to room temperature by letting it sit out for one hour.
4. Get your grill hot on one side and medium on the other.
5. Once the grill is ready, wipe excess marinade off steak. Starting on the hot side, place skirt steak on grill for 2 minutes per side, attaining a nice sear.
6. Transfer steak to the cooler side of grill and cook until the internal temp is 130°. Let rest for 10 minutes (temp will rise while resting).
7. Carve and serve. This dish pairs well with beans and rice or served as tacos. Following is a chimichurri sauce that compliments it nicely.
*Outside skirt steak is a more tender cut than inside skirt steak, for this recipe outside skirt is recommended. Do not use too much lime as the citrus can cook the meat before putting it on the grill, resulting in a tougher texture.
SIMPLE SKIRT STEAK
INGREDIENTS:
• 2lbs. Outside skirt steak*
• 2 Tablespoons lime*
• 2 Tablespoons finely,
chopped cilantro
• ¼ Cup olive oil or avocado oil
• ¼ White onion, finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
CHIMICHURRI
INGREDIENTS:
• ½ Cup parsley, finely chopped
• ½ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 Cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Red chili (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ½ Teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 Teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. You can make this in the late morning and let it sit for around 4-6 hours, or you can make it the day before and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just be sure to take it out and get it to room temp before you serve it, as olive oil hardens in the fridge. Serve over skirt steak or tacos.
ROASTED CORN SALSA
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 Ears sweet corn
• 10oz. Cherry tomatoes
• ¼ Cup lime juice
• 1 Finely chopped jalapeno or serrano (whole or deseeded depending on desired level of heat)
• ¼ Cup cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ Cup white onion, chopped
• 2 Cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
DIRECTIONS:
1. Grill corn, you do not need to soak the corn beforehand.
2. Place corn on the grill (inside their husks) over medium heat turning every few minutes.
3. After 10 to 12 minutes shuck the corn and put the cobs back on the grill for 2-4 minutes rotating frequently to achieve that charred look and flavor.
4. Cut the corn from the cob, place in bowl and add all other ingredients. Let the mixture meld for about an hour and serve with tortilla chips or as a taco garnish.
New Custom Frameless Shower Enclosure
Old Builder Grade Shower Enclosure
ARTICLE BY KELLY
HomeFront: Heating & Air shares real-world advice to help homeowners stay cool and avoid costly surprises
BEAT THE TEXAS HEAT
HomeFront: Heating & Air is a locally and veteran-owned HVAC company serving New Braunfels, built around straightforward service and a focus on doing the job right. The team handles everything from repairs and maintenance to full system replacements, with an emphasis on clear communication and helping homeowners understand what is really happening inside their systems. That same mindset showed up throughout our conversation with Chris Stokes (owner of HomeFront: Heating & Air), who offered practical, no-nonsense advice for getting through the heat of a Texas summer.
WHAT SHOULD HOMEOWNERS DO NOW TO GET AHEAD OF THE SUMMER HEAT?
Honestly, if you are worried about it in June, you are probably already behind the curve. My advice is to pay attention early and do not wait for a problem to get worse. These systems are mechanical, so they are either working or they are not. If something feels off, call someone. Be familiar with your home and your system, because a lot of people only think about the thermostat on the wall. They forget there is an indoor unit, ductwork, and all the parts that make the system work together. The best thing you can do is stay ahead of it instead of reacting to it.
WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS THAT AN AC SYSTEM NEEDS SERVICE?
Sound is a big one. If the system gets louder or if you hear metallic grinding, that can mean a fan motor is going out. Air conditioning does not like restriction, so if the air sounds louder at the vents, that is your system talking to you. It may be dirty filters, dirty coils, or something else going on. Another sign is when people keep brushing off the same issue season after season. They think, “Oh, it will go away,” and then they get to June, and something is broken. That is usually how small problems become big ones.
WHAT ARE SOME SIMPLE WAYS TO KEEP A HOUSE COOLER WITHOUT OVERWORKING THE SYSTEM?
Window tinting and solar screening can make a huge difference. A lot of heat comes in through windows and the attic, so anything that cuts down heat gain helps. Insulation matters too. Doors and windows should be
“AS SOON AS YOU NOTICE SOMETHING OFF, DON’T WAIT. THESE SYSTEMS ARE MECHANICAL. THEY’RE EITHER WORKING OR THEY’RE NOT. A SMALL ISSUE DOESN’T JUST GO AWAY. IT USUALLY GROWS INTO SOMETHING BIGGER.”
sealed properly. A lot of people do not realize how much air they lose there. And use your thermostat wisely. If no one is home during the day, do not be afraid to let it rise a little and cool back down before you return. Most people keep it too low all the time, and that puts more stress on the system than it needs.
DO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY BEAT THE HEAT DURING A NEW
If I am not working, I am usually on a volleyball court somewhere. Both of my girls play indoor and beach volleyball, so we travel a lot for tournaments. When we do have downtime, the kids love Schlitterbahn. As for me, I enjoy golfing or fishing when I can. And sometimes the best way to beat the heat is simple. Turn the AC down, sit on the couch, and take a nap.
LIFE IN THE FAST LANE
FROM DRAG STRIPS TO DREAM CARS, RON’S COLLECTION RUNS ON NOSTALGIA AND AMERICAN MUSCLE.
ARTICLE BY KELLY SHEARING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EARTH GODDESS PHOTOGRAPHY
Ron does not just own classic cars. He keeps a whole little world of chrome, horsepower, and memory tucked inside his garage. His collection feels less like a hobby and more like a lifelong love story on wheels.
That love started early. “I’ve been a car guy for all my life, really. Ever since I was sixteen years old,” Ron said. His first car was a 1955 Chevrolet, the kind of ride that was simply part of daily life back then. It was not a collector’s piece at the time. It was just a car. But for Ron, that was enough to spark something that never left.
CONTINUED >
“I’ve been a car guy for all of my life, really. Ever since I was sixteen years old, you know.”
The real turning point came when he was 16 and spotted a white 1962 Corvette at a gas station near his neighborhood. It was marked at $1,500, which might as well have been a fortune for a teenager making “sixty or eighty dollars a week.” He could not buy it then, but he never forgot it. That one car stayed with him for decades and helped shape the rest of his collection.
Today, Ron owns four Corvettes and is working on a fifth project, a 1965 Chevrolet truck. He has been collecting for about 10 years, but the obsession goes back much farther. His goal has been clear for a long time. He wanted one Corvette from each generation. “So right now I have four of the generations out of eight, and so I am still
collecting and still looking for the other four,” he said.
That dream 1962 Corvette finally came home about 10 years ago, and the story behind it really does feel like something out of a car lover’s daydream. Ron had been searching for years, especially for one in Honduras maroon. “I wanted that color, Honduras maroon color, which I like, and they’re pretty rare nowadays. There are only about one hundred of them left in the world.”
Like many collectors, he checks listings often. “Sunday night, I look at all the websites every week for the cars and stuff. So I was looking on Facebook on Sunday night, and that Corvette popped up.” What made
the moment even better was how close it was. “It was right there… and I’m like, man, this is close to me.”
He wasted no time. “Monday morning, I went straight up there to look at it. As soon as I saw it, I was like, oh yeah, this is the one. I got to have it.” The deal was made that same day because he did not want anyone else to scoop it up. “He delivered it to my house on Tuesday. That’s how I got that one.”
So why Corvettes? For Ron, it comes down to style, history, and pride. He called it “the only American sports car made in America,” and said he has always liked American-made machines. That includes Harleys, too. But the Corvette has always had a special pull. The body lines, the
“Back in the day, we had to go to junkyards and pull parts off wrecked cars. Now you can order almost anything online.”
sound, and the way each generation still feels fresh have kept him hooked. Even the earliest models still turn heads. They still feel cool. They still feel alive.
Ron is not just a collector who parks the cars and polishes them. He works on them himself. He has a lift in his garage, handles oil changes, and builds engines. In fact, he can build a small-block Chevrolet V8 on his own. He learned by spending weekends and after-school hours in his uncle’s mechanic shop. Later, he and his cousin got into drag racing and built race cars together at home before taking them to the strip on Saturday nights. That hands-on life has never really stopped.
He also knows how to pick a good classic. When he found the old truck in Arkansas, he looked for a dry, rust-free place. Classic car hunting is not just
about looks. It is about saving yourself a pile of repair work. Over the years, Ron has learned that parts are easier to find now, too. With the internet, you can order nearly anything. That was not the case when he started out.
Even with all that work and all those trophies, what Ron loves most may be the feeling behind the wheel. “It takes me back to the seventies, you know. You’re driving that car, and you’re going down the road, and people are looking at you every which way, and it just reminds me of my younger days.” That is the heart of it right there. A classic car is not only about where it is now. It is about where it takes you.
And for Ron, that feeling is best with the top down, cruising around town, and letting the road do the rest. The cars may be old, but the thrill never is.
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ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
PICKLE-BRINED CHICKEN WINGS SOAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ALABAMA WHITE SAUCE.
Pickle In A
I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wing flavor, never quite satisfied, until I heard a podcast suggestion: brining chicken wings in pickle juice. It sounded strange at first, but it yields incredibly tender and flavorful wings! Since then, I save pickle juice from every jar I buy just to recreate these beloved wings. If I run out of pickle juice, olive juice works too. I air fry mine, but if you don’t have an air fryer, cook them as you normally would. Don’t forget to toss them in a buttery dill sauce and try the Alabama white BBQ sauce for an extra layer of goodness!
Pickle Juice Brined Wings
INGREDIENTS
• 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
• Pickle juice - enough to cover wings
• 1 – 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 6 tablespoons butter
• A few dashes of hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place chicken wings in a non-reactive container and pour pickle juice over chicken wings until completely covered.
2. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate, covered, for at least 8 hours.
3. Drain wings, discard pickle juice, and completely pat wings dry.
4. Put dried wings in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. Mix well.
5. Place wings in an air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd. Cook at 400 degrees for 28 minutes, turning every 8 minutes until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven for 35 - 40 minutes at 400 degrees, flipping halfway through.
6. Melt the butter and add a few splashes of hot sauce of your choice and mix in a bowl. Add wings and completely cover with butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and toss a few times, and serve with my white barbeque sauce.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
INGREDIENTS
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon pepper, coarsely ground
• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Dip your pickle juice-brined wings in this sauce and taste the joy! Store in the refrigerator for 1 - 2 weeks.
Sunset at the Reserve
Sunshine, live music, and a drink that feels like golden hour in a glass. This bright, citrusy cocktail fits right in at The Reserve on 1863, where the vibe is always relaxed and the seating is always your choice. Maybe you’re perched at a high-top watching the crowd drift in, stretched out at a picnic table with friends, or sinking into patio seating as the band tunes up for the night. Wherever you land, this floral-citrus spritz is the kind of easy, refreshing sip made for warm evenings, clinking glasses, and one-more-song energy.
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 oz. vodka
• 3/4 oz. lemon juice
• 3/4 oz. St. Germain elderflower liqueur
• 1/2 oz. Aperol
• 1/2 oz. simple syrup
• Orange or lemon twist for garnish
Directions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lemon juice, St-Germain, Aperol, and simple syrup.
3. Shake well until chilled and slightly frothy.
4. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over fresh ice.
5. Garnish with an orange or lemon twist.
6. Enjoy!
ARTICLE BY THE RESERVE ON 1863 PHOTOGRAPHY BY EARTH GODDESS PHOTOGRAPHY
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You Can’t See But Can
Feel
Not all inflammation is visible. It doesn’t always present as redness or pain often, it quietly affects the body beneath the surface. Symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight gain, persistent allergies, hormone imbalances, or gut issues can all be tied to chronic, low-grade inflammation that goes undetected This hidden inflammation can be triggered by food sensitivities, environmental allergens, stress, or internal imbalances Because it isn’t always obvious, many people end up managing symptoms without ever identifying the root cause
At Blue Agave Functional Medicine, we take a proactive approach to uncover what’s really driving inflammation in your body Through advanced testing and personalized care, our providers help pinpoint triggers and create a plan to restore balance supporting everything from immune health to hormones, digestion, and overall wellness.
Accepting Most Insurances Including Medicare
With acceptance of most major insurances, our goal is to make a holistic approach to healthcare more accessible for everyone, preventing the need for high out-of-pocket costs.
Ready to feel better?
Scan the QR code to schedule and learn more, or call our office at (830) 491-4040
ARTICLE BY KIM HILL
GUYS’ GUYS’ GETAWAYS GETAWAYS
FOUR GREAT PLACES FOR GROOVES, GRUB AND GAWKING WITH BEST BROS
Has it been too long since your tribe gathered to rib and one-up each other as only guys can do? To help plan a getaway for just the guys, City Lifestyle gathered an eclectic list of locations offering tons of things to see, do and experience. Here’s hoping the only ribs one will get on this guys’ getaway are the kind to hold in hands while barbecue sauce drips onto shirts.
Scottsdale/Phoenix
There’s no other tournament on the PGA Tour like the Waste Management Phoenix Open and no hole like the legendary 16th, where 20,000 boisterous fans boo the tee shots that miss the green. The other 51 weeks of the year, golfers can play TPC Scottsdale or try one of more than 200 courses in the Scottsdale area, a top golf destination. Another winter event is the BarrettJackson Collector Car Auction. Even if one’s only collector car was a Hot Wheels, it’s a blast to peruse the acres of autos for
sale before heading inside to watch the unique or renowned cars crossing the auction block. When it’s time to get moving, the strenuous hike up Camelback Mountain in nearby Phoenix is a bucket-list item. Need a more moderate trail? Experience the same magic of the majestic saguaro cactus in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
New Orleans
It’s always a party in New Orleans (NOLA), especially when it comes to festivals, many of them centered around music. Folk to funk, gospel to jazz, zydeco, blues, African and other musical styles are celebrated on the Jazz and Heritage Festival’s 12 stages. If free admission is more desired, don’t miss the French Quarter Festival featuring local musicians and food vendors representing dozens of New Orleans restaurants. Part of the fun of Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo is admiring revelers’ watercraft, some of them homemade just for this festival on the banks of Bayou Saint John. If one of the festivals can’t be attended, there’s still plenty of NOLA live music, particularly the jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. And when a break from crowds is needed, take a guided swamp tour. Kitschy, yes, but it’s a hoot to cruise around on a swamp buggy while looking for alligators.
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Bowling Green, Kentucky
“America’s Sports Car” is produced at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, where visitors can join guided tours to observe Corvettes being built and learn the fascinating history of these sexy autos. See examples of all Corvette generations at the National Corvette Museum. And if the need for speed is still felt, a few times a year Xtreme Experience offers driving or ride-along events in exotics like Ferraris or Lamborghinis at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park. After getting all revved up, cool down at Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest known cave system in the world and a World Heritage Site, where guided tours take participants through tunnels humans have used for thousands of years. And after all this touring, the Bowling Green area is the southernmost point in the Kentucky Bourbon Trail of distilleries.
Austin
Live music rules here, with iconic venues such as Antone’s, The Continental Club, the White Horse and hundreds of other locations, from dive bars to big stages. From rock and blues to country and urban, music is heard every night of the week (and many afternoons as well). When guys are hungry, there are tons of barbeque and Tex-Mex joints. Unique food trucks are truly a thing here, with nearly 2,000 food trailers in town. Burn some calories biking or running the Southern Walnut Creek Trail or one of many paved paths. Get out on the water in a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard on Lake Travis or Lady Bird Lake. Take a dip in the historic Barton Springs Pool, where the underground springs keep the water around 68 degrees all year.
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Expert Roofing Solutions for a Safer Home
NB Roofing & Construction: Your Local Roofers
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.
JUNE 2026
events
JUNE 4TH
2026 Kops & Kids Safety Picnic
164 Landa Park Dr., New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 4:00 PM
Enjoy a free, come-and-go event at the Kops & Kids Safety Picnic at the Landa Park Dance Slab. Families can meet local first responders, explore police and fire vehicles, watch K-9 and SWAT demos, enjoy free food and music, and enter for a chance to win a bike or scooter.
JUNE 6TH
Alabama Live at Whitewater Amphitheater
11860 FM306 Suite 1, New Braunfels, TX 78132 | 6:30 PM
Country legends Alabama take the stage at Whitewater Amphitheater on June 6, 2026. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 8:00 p.m., and tickets start at $101. Grab your boots and get ready for a night of sing-along classics under the Texas stars.
JUNE 6TH
Beauty from Ashes 5K
32 Gazebo Circle, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 | 7:30 AM
Lace up for a meaningful 5K in beautiful Landa Park to honor a loved one and support Beauty from Ashes, a local nonprofit serving widows in our community. Registration starts at $25, with a shirt and medal included, and teams of five or more save $5 per person.
realty report
We offer a comprehensive range of collision and surface repair services, from minor dings and dents to extensive collision repairs. We also offer paint options for every type of vehicle, with our most economical overall paint service starting at $899. We have painted over 10 million vehicles since 1972, and our work is backed by our guaranteed nationwide warranty. “We
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JUNE 12TH
Sizzilin' for Seniors BBQ Bash Benefit 2026
710 Landa St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 6:00 PM
Sizzlin’ for Seniors BBQ Bash Benefit serves up an evening of BBQ, drinks, music, a silent auction, and the crowd-favorite frog and duck raffle. Every ticket and bid helps fund meals, wellness programs, and connections for local seniors. Bring friends, come hungry, and support a great cause. Tickets are $50.
JUNE 18TH
40th Anniversary Celebration at Watering Hole Saloon
1390 McQueeney Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 8:00 PM
Celebrate 40 years of music and memories at Watering Hole Saloon & Dancehall with a three-day anniversary party featuring live bands, nightly drink specials, and a Sunday giveaway celebration catered by Deja Que BBQ. Best of all, there’s no cover, so come dance and celebrate all weekend long.
JUNE 27TH
New Braunfels Chapter Big Game Banquet
375 S. Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130 | 5:00 PM
Join the New Braunfels Chapter Big Game Banquet at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center for an exciting night of dinner, auctions, and elk country support. Doors open at 5 p.m. Admission is $70 and includes a banquet meal and RMEF Digital Supporting Membership, while youth admission is $40.
