Invest in New Braunfels
Investment by definition is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, our homes and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact.
We can invest in our community by supporting our local businesses, schools and local organizations. We can serve the community through volunteerism and investment in future generations. On a larger scale, we can participate in public surveys and stay educated and involved with future city planning. Investing in our finances helps create wealth, meets long-term financial goals and secures our retirement. On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.
For me I think the most important things I invest in don't necessarily take money. When I am investing in my family, friendships and community it is because I love the people that go into those relationships. I know that when it comes to having joy in our life that comes from consistency. Whether it be getting up and getting to the gym to invest in yourself, volunteering consistently at a charity, putting away some money from every check and investing with your financial advisor to make sure you are on the right track to retire, or putting away money to get that backyard oasis you have dreamed of. All of these little things you do daily or weekly add up to a lifetime of happiness and joy. While investing in ourselves, relationships, community, homes and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. In this issue, we wanted to share about some of the ways that we can invest in our community, our finances, our homes and with those that we love
RACHEL SCHAFFNER, PUBLISHER
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Rachel Schaffner | rachel.schaffner@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Samantha Bowers | samantha.bowers@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lauren Mendez | lauren.mendez@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Casey Frank | info@drinklokal.com
Erika Sanchez | beautanicalswellness@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Sharice Washington
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn
city scene
@APRILPETRIUS
@GRUENEOUTFITTERS
@KAITLINCOLGATE
@NEWBRAUNFELSNIGHTLIFE
1: Angela Zwinggi, Alicia Day, and Lakisha Copeland out at Cody’s Restaurant. 2: April Petrius, Evelina Solis, Penny Pereboom, Ada Cook spending Galentine’s together! 3: Kaitlin Colgate, Misty Leverett-Estrada, Courtney Bliss and Sarah Novak-Fouts down for the San Antonio Rodeo 4: Gruene Outfitters had the Kuhl Truck visit for the day, how Kuhl is that? 5: Marsha Kovar and Samantha Bowers showing off Marsha’s Blue Bell Design at Tablesscapes 2025 6: Friends Michelle, Shari, Carrie and Vanessa bundle up at Cowboys and Cadillacs. 7: Cameron Corzine owner of Cowboys and Cadillacs and Christoph Millett of New Braunfels Nightlife @SAMANTHABOWERS
Don't miss a moment of your favorite season.
Family Care Center Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to Family Care Center on their ribbon cutting! Family Care Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive behavioral health care for our community. From therapy and psychiatry to medication management and TMS treatment, their expert team offers compassionate, individualized outpatient mental health services for New Braunfels and Comal County. 640 N Walnut Ave Suite 1208, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Photography by @nbtxchamber
Grand Opening of The Path Bike Shop
Congratulations to The Path Bike Shop on their ribbon cutting! Opened on January 3, 2025, this new addition to our community offers a wide selection of bikes, accessories, and repair services. Owner Jessica Odom is dedicated to supporting the local biking community. The shop also plans to host community bike rides, fostering a vibrant cycling culture in our area. 273 E Mill St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Photography by @nbtxchamber
La Bal de Noce had their Ribbon Cutting
Congratulations to La Bal de Noce on their opening! This stunning event venue brings a charming and elegant atmosphere to our community, perfect for weddings, celebrations, and gatherings of all kinds. “If there’s something to celebrate, why not celebrate?” 651 N Business Interstate Hwy 35 #810, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Photography by @nbtxchamber
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.
INVESTING IN Your Dream BACKYARD
Your backyard has the potential to be more than just a patch of grass—it can be a personal oasis, a place to unwind, entertain, and create lasting memories. A custom pool isn’t just about adding water; it’s about transforming your lifestyle. That’s exactly what Jeff and Brandy Brokaw, the husband-and-wife team behind Centex Custom Pools, are passionate about bringing to Central Texas homeowners.
“We don’t just build pools; we build experiences,” Jeff says. “Every project is about designing a space that perfectly fits our client’s lifestyle. We treat each project like we’re creating something for our own family—because, by the time it’s done, that’s how we see our clients.”
A well-designed pool is a smart investment, adding value to your home and creating a space to enjoy year-round. Choosing the right builder is key to making the process smooth and stress-free.
CONTINUED >
Enhance your home’s value and lifestyle with a pool designed for beauty, relaxation, and fun.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARICE WASHINGTON
What sets Centex Custom Pools apart is their highly personalized approach. “Most companies offer similar products, but what makes us different is our personal attention to every project,” Jeff explains. “Our clients have my personal cell phone number. They can call or text me anytime, and I’m on-site whenever work is being done. We don’t just oversee the process—we’re in it every step of the way.”
A pool should be more than a place to cool off—it should be a statement piece. Centex is known for custom sunken lounge areas, swim-up bars, cascading rain curtains, and dynamic LED lighting. These features don’t just add beauty; they create an immersive backyard experience.
“We love seeing our clients’ faces when they see their finished pool for the first time,” Jeff says.
Centex ensures the process is exciting from start to finish. “We’re in constant communication with our clients,” Jeff says. “We check in daily, making sure they know what’s happening and answering questions.”
One of their standout projects, the Tondre pool in Kyle, Texas, is a perfect example of their craftsmanship. “It checks all the boxes,” Jeff shares. “It’s a dream pool, and that’s what we strive for with every project.”
Centex stays ahead of industry trends by collaborating with top builders in other markets. “We’re always learning and improving,” Jeff says. They also prioritize sustainability, using EPA Energy Starrated equipment.
Like any major home improvement, pool construction comes with challenges, especially with city permits and HOA regulations. “Sometimes it takes longer to get approvals than to build the pool,” Jeff laughs. “But we’ve been through it all and know how to navigate it.”
Beyond building pools, Centex is committed to giving back. Jeff and Brandy are active in their church’s kids’ ministry and regularly connect with local entrepreneurs.
“Our goal is to create places where people can make lifelong memories,” Jeff says. “And we’ll continue to do that, one pool at a time.”
Centex Custom Pools (830) 515-2002
https://centexcustompools.com/
Why Invest in a Custom Pool?
A Centex Custom Pool enhances your home’s value, creates a relaxing retreat, and provides a perfect space for entertaining. With expert craftsmanship and personalized designs, your backyard oasis is just a call away.
KEEPING THE
Hill Country Wild
Preserving the Beauty of New Braunfels
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS
Morning mist rises off the Guadalupe River, wrapping ancient cypress trees in a soft haze. The water, clear and steady, reflects the golden light of sunrise as a fisherman casts his line. Nearby, deer move quietly through the tall grasses, and birds call from the oaks. This is the Texas Hill Country—the land that has drawn generations of people to its rolling hills, hidden springs, and wide-open skies. But as more people settle in this beloved region, its future hangs in the balance.
New Braunfels is changing. Expanding neighborhoods push into once-untouched fields, and traffic hums where there was once only the sound of wind through the trees. The change is inevitable, but what happens next isn’t. The decisions made today will determine whether the rivers remain clean, the hills remain wild, and the charm that defines this area endures for generations to come.
Ask anyone in New Braunfels what makes this place special, and chances are they’ll mention the rivers. The Comal, one of the shortest navigable rivers in the world, bubbles up from underground springs, staying a steady, cool temperature year-round. The Guadalupe, with its winding curves and towering cypress trees, has been a lifeline for settlers, farmers, and adventurers alike. More than just a backdrop for tubing and fishing, these rivers are fragile ecosystems that need protection. Runoff from construction, excessive water use, and pollution threaten their clarity and health. Without careful management, the pristine waters that define New Braunfels could become murky and depleted. Organizations like the Comal County Conservation Alliance work to preserve water quality and protect the land, but they need community support.
It wasn’t long ago that the Hill Country was a patchwork of ranches, family farms, and open land. Wildflowers painted the fields in spring, and at night, stars stretched across an uninterrupted sky. Today, new developments are replacing these spaces at an alarming rate, pushing wildlife farther away and changing the landscape forever. Conservation groups like the Hill Country Alliance work with landowners to create conservation easements—agreements that allow families to keep their land while ensuring it remains undeveloped. These efforts help maintain the area’s natural beauty and protect critical habitats for wildlife.
CONTINUED >
The good news is that it’s not too late. There are steps every person can take to ensure that New Braunfels and the surrounding Hill Country remain as breathtaking tomorrow as they are today. Simple efforts can make a big impact:
• Use water wisely. Fix leaks, landscape with drought-resistant native plants, and reduce excessive outdoor watering.
• Support conservation efforts. Organizations like the Guadalupe River Association and the Texas Land Conservancy rely on volunteers and donations.
• Advocate for responsible growth. Encourage smart development that preserves green spaces, limits runoff, and protects natural water sources.
• Participate in community clean-ups. Keeping parks and riverbanks free of litter helps maintain the area’s natural beauty.
• Choose sustainable recreation. When enjoying the rivers and trails, follow Leave No Trace principles and respect wildlife habitats. The future of the Hill Country isn’t just about what we build—it’s about what we choose to protect. The rivers, the rolling hills, the starlit nights—they are part of what makes this place home. By investing in conservation today, we ensure that future generations can stand by the Guadalupe at sunrise, breathe in the crisp morning air, and see Texas as it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and free.
PRESERVING NEW BRAUNFELS & HILL COUNTRY
Conserve water – Fix leaks, use native plants, and reduce outdoor watering. Support conservation groups – Donate or volunteer with local organizations. Advocate for smart growth – Encourage responsible development and land preservation. Keep it clean – Join river and park clean-up efforts. Respect nature – Follow Leave No Trace principles while exploring.
INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
A Magical Princess Tea Party Package has now been added to our events we provide in our stunning tearoom!
830.387.4003 | theteacharmer-com.myshopify.com 301 W San Antonio St. Suite 200
Invest in Your Health Naturally
Discover natural benefits for pain relief, stress management, better sleep, and overall wellness.
If there is one person who gets put on the back burner while taking care of others (spouse, children, extended family, and animals), it is ourselves! It is impossible to pour from an empty cup, so making sure to invest in ourselves by taking care of our own health, inner peace, and sleep is not only important but vital to our everyday lives!
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound found in hemp that provides various health benefits, particularly for managing stress, sleep, and overall well-being.
The answer may surprise you. First of all, this powerful plant is not foreign to our bodies! Did you know that your body has its own endocannabinoid system, just like the hemp plant? This is the #1 reason the human body and hemp work in harmony with one another to support wellness and address various concerns.
CBD can act as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. How? The answer lies within the endocannabinoid system (ECS)! When CBD interacts with the body's ECS, it can help reduce inflammation and pain, making it beneficial for chronic conditions like arthritis, migraines, and muscle soreness. Just think—waking up and going through an entire day, PAIN FREE! It doesn’t have to be just a dream.
ARTICLE BY ERIKA SANCHEZ
For many of us, the struggle with day-to-day anxiety and stress can be overwhelming, making even simple tasks feel daunting. CBD is known for its calming effects, helping bring the body and mind to a balanced state. It helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress without any intoxicating effects. Additionally, CBD is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that may support brain health, potentially improving focus, cognition, and even protecting against neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
CBD may also promote digestive health by calming nausea, stimulating the appetite, and supporting gut health. It has been studied for its potential benefits in managing conditions like IBS and Crohn’s Disease. In today’s world of toxins and chemicals, it is reassuring to know that there are natural remedies to help us stay healthy!
The number one issue that the majority of our customers face is sleep—falling asleep, staying asleep, and getting quality rest. If you are someone who gets into bed only for your brain to start running a mile a minute, CBD may be the best thing you’ve ever tried.
• Enhancing Sleep Quality: CBD helps regulate sleep cycles, improving REM sleep and reducing disturbances like waking up frequently.
• Reducing Insomnia: If stress, anxiety, or pain is causing sleep issues, CBD can address the root causes, making it easier to stay asleep through the night.
Not all CBD products are created equal—expensive doesn’t necessarily mean quality, and cheap doesn’t always mean ineffective. It is important to know where the plants are grown, what (if any) pesticides and chemicals are used, how the CBD is extracted, and what ingredients go into making the products on the shelves.
If you are interested in exploring CBD products or trying them for the first time, I would love to meet with you at Beautanicals Wellness to learn about your life and health goals and match you with the perfect products!
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties,
even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 3 4 5 6
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
! Many loan programs allow for as little as 3-5% down, and VA loans offer zero down for qualified buyers.
MYTH #2: Overpricing your home leaves room for negotiation!BUSTED! Big Mistake! Overpriced homes sit on the market longer. A competitive price attracts more buyers and can lead to multiple offers.
MYTH #3: Renting is always cheaper than buying! BUSTED! - Not always true! With low mortgage rates, owning can be as affordable as renting—plus, you build equity over time. And with higher mortgage rates, we typically shift to a buyers market! That means more negotiating room! Refinance that rate a year from now but get the house you LOVE today! (many lenders offer incentives to help you refi when rates drop!)
MYTH #4: You don’t need a real estate agent! BUSTED! - Agents provide market expertise, negotiation skills, and guidance to save you time, stress, and money. A HUGE advantage to you is an agent can see what’s behind the scenes (data), we have a network of trusted colleagues to call on, and I would miss out on working with YOU!
MYTH #5: You should renovate before selling to get a higher price!BUSTED! - The Truth: While some updates can boost value, not all renovations offer a good return on investment. Instead of a full remodel, focus on small, high-impact improvements like fresh paint, curb appeal, and minor repairs. Your agent can guide you on what’s truly worth upgrading.
Shelby Renfeld, REALTOR® Team Leader/Owner
APRIL 5TH 5th Annual New Braunfels Walk for Autism
1510 N I-35, New Braunfels, TX | 8:30 AM
Join Annual Walk for Autism to support local families raising individuals on the spectrum. Walk starts at 8:30 am Resource Fair till 11 am.
APRIL 6TH Dachshund Race Series
148 S Castell St, New Braunfels, TX | 2:00 PM
Let the 2025 Dachshund Race Series begin! Come see why this is one of our most popular events at Krause’s. We are accepting food and supply donations for the HSNBA. Place in the top racers and be asked back for our Race Finals on December 7th! Medals will be awarded to the best-dressed Weiner dog and the race winners!
APRIL 10TH
Foster the Vine
Benefitting the New Braunfels Angels
1924 Bretzke Ln, New Braunfels, TX | 6:00 PM
The 6th Annual Foster the Vine food and beverage tasting event is a unique celebration of culinary craftsmanship and community support, all benefiting the foster care programs of New Braunfels Angels. This event brings together some of New Braunfels’ finest restaurateurs, who will pair their exquisite dishes with regional wines, craft beers and cocktails for guests to enjoy.
APRIL 12TH
Earth Day - Grow Green With NB Parks and Headwaters
Landa Park, Playground, New Braunfels, TX | 9:00 AM
Free trees will be given away during this year’s Earth Day: Grow Green With New Braunfels Parks and Headwaters event! Visit newbraunfels.gov/earthday for more info.
APRIL 19TH
Historic Home Tours
491 Comal Ave, New Braunfels, TX | 10:00 AM
Join New Braunfels Conservation Society on a stroll through history… explore some of the city’s historically significant structures beginning at the Ferdinand Lindheimer Haus.
APRIL 26TH
Thru the Chute
100 Leibscher Dr, New Braunfels, TX | 10:00 AM
Thru the Chute is a cardboard boat race held annually at the New Braunfels City Tube Chute. Competitors launch their handmade vessels through the Chute as spectators cheer them on! Visit newbraunfels.gov/ thruthechute for more info.
Want to be featured?
A FLUFFY, TROPICAL TWIST IN EVERY SIP!
Cottontail Martini TROPICAL
As Easter approaches and spring blooms, it’s the perfect time for a lighthearted, festive cocktail. Enter the Cottontail Martini—a creamy, coconut-infused drink as delightful as the season itself.
Legend has it the Easter Bunny unwinds with this sweet treat after a long night of hiding eggs. With whipped vodka, coconut rum, and a splash of pineapple juice, it’s a perfect blend of tropical indulgence.
A honey-rimmed coconut garnish adds a playful touch, nodding to spring’s fluffiest visitor.
Whether hosting brunch or sipping solo, this cocktail brings a little seasonal magic.
• 1.5 oz whipped or vanilla vodka
• 1.5 oz coconut rum
• 2 oz half and half
• ½ oz cream of coconut
• Splash of pineapple juice
• Honey, chopped sweetened coconut, and marshmallows for garnish
ARTICLE BY RECIPE BY THE VILLA PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARICE WASHINGTON
