NBTX, TX August 2024

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Paws & Play Time to Celebrate Kids and Furry Friends!

I hope you're doing well and staying healthy.

This issue is one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy children bring to their families and their significant impact on their communities.

Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow but the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our most challenging work and significant investment, and we are happy to highlight the best for New Braunfels kids in this issue.

Secondarily, who could forget pets? This special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love and the opportunity to learn, grow, and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

My home is bustling with kid and pet energy! My children, Lauren, Alyse and Dean enjoy taking care of our dog Blu, and our cats Gunner, Griffin, and Graham, plus we have a cute axolotl that makes us smile. Most of our animals found us, and I'm so glad they did, even though they make life more hectic!

Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention, and intention shape how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.  Cheers!

SAMANTHA BOWERS, PUBLISHER @NBTXCITYLIFESTYLE

August 2024

PUBLISHER

Samantha Bowers | samantha.bowers@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Lauren Mendez | lauren.mendez@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Christine Scott of Lomonico Photography contact@lomonicophotography.com

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

“Saving

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Room Redux

Room Redux is a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the bedrooms of children who have experienced trauma or abuse. By creating safe, peaceful, and nurturing spaces, they aim to promote healing and a sense of security. The organization relies on community support and donations to carry out these renovations, giving children a fresh start and helping them regain comfort and normalcy in their lives. To find out how you can help go to https://roomredux.org/

Kids Feeding Kids

Kids Feeding Kids in New Braunfels is a nonprofit organization that connects local youth agricultural

programs with shelters and agencies supporting vulnerable children. They provide resources, including meat donations from student agricultural projects, to ensure these shelters are well-stocked with essential food supplies. Their mission supports children in need and educates youth on agriculture and community service . To find out how you can help go to https://kidsfeedingkidstx.org

by @kidsfeedingkidstx

Connections Individual and Family Services

Connections Individual and Family Services, based in New Braunfels, Texas, empowers at-risk youth and families through community education, counseling, crisis intervention, and emergency residential care. Since 1981, they have provided safe and supportive environments, helping youth achieve stability, educational success, and independent living skills. Their programs include emergency shelters, transitional living, and comprehensive counseling services . To find how you can help go to https://www.connectionsifs.org/

by @connectionsifs

YOUNG DREAMERS, KIDS CONQUER BUSINESS

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE

SCOTT

WITH LOMONICO PHOTOGRAPHY

EXPLORING THE INSPIRING JOURNEYS OF YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS WHO ARE TURNING THEIR DREAMS INTO THRIVING BUSINESSES

Meet the trailblazing kid entrepreneurs who are shaking up the business world with their creativity, energy, and fresh ideas! These young innovators are not just dreaming big but making those dreams a reality, from pouring candles to memoralizing our pets, they are finding their niche. With boundless enthusiasm and a knack for thinking outside the box, these pint-sized powerhouses are proving that age is just a number for entrepreneurship. Join us to discover how these dynamic kids are changing the game and inspiring others to follow in their adventurous footsteps!

LILLIEN GIBBONS - AGE 15 PETS AND HALOS

Being in 4H for vet sciences inspired me to start my own business when I decided to raise a goat and needed to purchase it myself. What better way to make money than to start a business? My business, Pets and Halos, handcrafts pet memorial rings from cremation ashes. Initially, I made rings as a hobby, but after our dog Piper died, we noticed the ashes had the same

consistency as mica powder used in epoxies, leading to the creation of our first Piper ring. Starting a business has its challenges, from upgrading tools to building a social media presence and website. My parents and mentor, Doug Miller, have been instrumental in our success. Our future goal is to go national with our website, offering high-quality, handcrafted memorial rings to pet lovers everywhere.

ELIA LEDET - AGE 11 ELIA’S CANDLE CO

Raising money for soccer camp and a future trip to Europe to see Manchester United inspired me to start my own business. With entrepreneurial parents, I wanted to learn the ropes of running a business early. My business involves making homemade candles, each scent reminiscent of home and cherished memories. My mom had candle-making supplies, making it the perfect

venture. I’ve faced challenges, particularly learning about different wax types and figuring out shipping logistics in hot weather. Testing various clean waxes is helping me overcome these obstacles. My family, church members, and my parents’ friends have been incredibly supportive. My immediate goal is to fund my soccer camp trip next year and save for future training and travel.

Nurturing Creative Talents

FROM IMMERSIVE ART PROGRAMS TO FUN POP-IN PAINTING SESSIONS, DISCOVER TWO FANTASTIC OPTIONS FOR KIDS.

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA BOWERS

Art, by definition, is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination.  It's a journey that starts with dipping our fingers in small plastic paint pots and smearing red, blue, and yellows across thick sheets of construction paper, creating our masterpiece. Now, let’s explore two options that can make this journey even more enjoyable. Alla Prima Art Studio offers your child a comprehensive program and structured journey of discovery and creativity. On the other hand,

Painting with a Twist is an excellent option for casual drop-in sessions. It's a place where your child can have fun, express their creativity, and enjoy a relaxed artistic atmosphere.

Alla Prima Art Studio offers a unique and exciting 8-month program designed to make art a joyful and educational experience for young artists. The studio fosters a positive environment where students can freely express themselves and develop their artistic skills. By prioritizing the joy of creating without the pressures of judgment or grades, we ensure that every child finds delight in their creative journey, motivating them to continue and improve their skills.

The program warmly welcomes Kindergarten through 8th-grade students, providing an inclusive space for young creatives to explore a variety of art mediums. Participants will delve into at least ten mediums, including watercolor, acrylics, oil pastels, ceramics, and more. This diverse hands-on experience allows students to discover their unique artistic passions and potential within the art world, ensuring that every child's interests are valued and nurtured.

To keep the program fresh and engaging over the eight months, thematic projects, collaborative group work, and interactive art history lessons are incorporated. Each week introduces new themes and challenges that align with the student's progress, keeping the content dynamic and motivating. The program helps students discover new passions and maintain their enthusiasm for art by providing access to various mediums.

By the end of the program, students at Alla Prima Art Studio will have developed proficiency in various art mediums and uncovered their artistic passions. Beyond technical skills, they will gain confidence, patience, and a sense of accomplishment. The program also fosters essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, resilience, and problem-solving, setting them up for success in various aspects of life.

Feedback from parents and students has been overwhelmingly positive. Many parents have shared how the classes have helped their children express themselves and come out of their shells. Success stories include students who have repeated the program from kindergarten through high school and pursued careers in graphic design, studio art, and art history. One adult student was inspired to return to college to become an art therapist.

CONTINUED >

The passionate instructors at Alla Prima Art Studio are not just artists but professional artists and educators with backgrounds in fine arts, graphic design, and art history. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, ensuring students receive a high-quality, wellrounded education from various artistic perspectives. This professional expertise instills confidence in the parents about the quality of education their child will receive. Visit them at https://allaprimaartstudio.com

Another great way to immerse your child into the world of art is through another local studio that offers an array of options to dip your toes in. Painting with a Twist in New Braunfels is designed to spark creativity and provide fun for children of all ages.

They offer Kid-friendly painting classes with simple designs and step-by-step instructions tailored specifically for younger artists. Children can follow along easily, creating their own colorful masterpieces. The supportive atmosphere encourages kids to express their creativity and gain confidence in their artistic abilities.

You can host a Birthday party here, and the studio provides a unique party experience where children can paint a pre-selected design guided by an art instructor. All supplies are included, and the studio takes care of the setup and cleanup, making it a hassle-free option for parents. The birthday child and their friends leave with their own creations, making for a memorable and funfilled event.

Family Paint Days are designed for families to paint together, providing an opportunity for quality time and bonding. It’s an excellent way for parents and children to connect through a shared creative activity.

Throughout the year, classes for various holidays and seasons are offered. Kids can paint pumpkins for Halloween, festive scenes for Christmas, or sunny beach landscapes for summer.

They host art camps during school breaks that offer a more immersive artistic experience. These camps span several days and include multiple painting projects, games, and creative activities. Art camps provide a comprehensive and enjoyable way for children to dive deeper into the world of art while making new friends.

For younger children, sessions that combine interactive storytelling with painting are particularly engaging. Kids listen to a story and then paint scenes or characters from the tale, blending imagination with creativity.

Painting with a Twist New Braunfels offers children a fun and engaging environment and contributes to their development by enhancing fine motor skills, creativity, and self-expression. You can contact the studio directly at https://www.paintingwithatwist.com/ studio/new-braunfels

NURTURING HEALTHY SMILES AND BRIGHT FUTURES WITH COMPASSION

Transforming Smiles with Dr. Offutt

“Imagine knowing your doctor by name and feeling like they’re an extension of your family.”

Many of us delight in the charm of a small town; it’s what we cherish about this place we call home. We imagine knowing our doctors by name and feeling like they’re an extension of our family. Visiting New Braunfels Pediatric Dental Associates transports you to a time when that was the norm. It’s not just the vintage-inspired western décor adorning the walls, each piece with its own story. You can even relax in the chair where Dr. Offutt used to do his homework. It’s about knowing the staff and dentist for as many years as your children; if you’re lucky, you’ve known many of them since you were a kid, too. Dr. Offutt has been a staple of New Braunfels since the early 80s, enjoying the connections he’s built with so many of us over the years.

Dr. Offutt's journey in dentistry took a delightful turn when he discovered his true calling—working with children. His early experiences were filled with joy, as he fondly recalls, 'It was actually fun when I had a child patient...adults were okay, but taking care of kids was actually fun.' This profound joy led him to specialize in pediatric dental training, a decision that has left a lasting impact on countless lives in our community.

Dr. Offutt's decision to specialize in pediatric dentistry was the best choice. He explains, 'Going into our office every day knowing how much we help children grow up with healthy teeth and pretty smiles makes every day rewarding. Our young patients have no idea the dramatic impact healthy teeth and an attractive smile will have on their lives.' He emphasizes that good dental care in early childhood leads to better self-image, self-esteem, and higher self-confidence. 'Many children who receive excellent dental care early on don't realize its impact on their overall well-being later in life. And that's okay because we know the long-term benefits. We change lives even if the child doesn't realize it.'

Earlier in his career, Dr. Offutt was elected by his fellow pediatric dentists from across Texas to be the President of the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. He continues to contribute to the training of future pediatric dental specialists as a Professor in the Department of Developmental Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

A significant turning point in Dr. Offutt's career came in 2009 when he became a laser-trained and certified dentist. However, attending a 2016 Denver conference organized by the International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals opened his eyes to the potential of laser technology in treating tissue restrictions in the mouth, such as tongue-ties and lipties. He came away from the conference determined to make caring for newborns struggling to nurse a centerpiece of his expertise and practice.

"Ten years ago, there was no one between Austin and San Antonio providing laser treatment of tongue and lip-ties in newborns," Dr. Offutt recalls. These babies struggle with latching, are not gaining weight, are not sleeping for significant lengths of time, and often exhibit colic due to nursing struggles. Nursing mothers also suffer from painful latching, mastitis, or postpartum depression because they feel inadequate when the problem lies with the baby’s oral tissue restrictions. Some Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) doctors performed these procedures with scissors or a scalpel, but these older techniques were painful and less precise.

Dr. Offutt and his team filled this void, caring for over 3,000 newborns over the last decade. Symptoms of tongue-tie and lip-tie in infants include pain or discomfort while nursing, poor latch, reflux, gassiness, poor weight gain, prolonged feedings, inability to hold a pacifier, speech problems, sleep apnea, and headaches. "We consider babies that cannot nurse properly to need urgent care. We frequently see

Many children who receive excellent dental care early on don’t realize its impact on their overall well-being later in life. “ ”

newborns immediately after they are released from the hospital and can almost always evaluate and treat the baby within one or two days after the initial referral and contact with our office."

Their commitment to state-of-the-art care and understanding of good dental practices have profoundly impacted countless children and their families. Remarkably, half of Dr. Offutt's staff have been with him for over 20 years, showcasing dedication and continuity

of care. Dr. Offutt's unwavering dedication and innovative approach to treating oral tissue restrictions have made him a leader. His work ensures that children grow up with healthy teeth and beautiful smiles, laying the foundation for a lifetime of confidence and well-being. His commitment and passion make him a beacon of trust in pediatric dentistry.

Find Dr. Offutt at www.newbraunfelschildrensdentist.com or visit them at 1523 East Common Street.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH |

summer is POPSICLE SEASON

KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR

As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kid-friendly activity.

SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES

ingredients:

Makes 18 to 24

• 2 quarts Concord grape juice

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 12 whole cloves

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 3 tablespoons whole allspice

directions:

Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.

Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.

“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”

Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.

“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says. “While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

ARTICLE

BY LISA MOYER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

STYLED BY ANGELA

BROOCKERD

“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”

CONTINUED >

Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”

Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.

“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.

DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:

• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it , but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.

• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.

• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.

• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.

HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:

Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.

• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.

• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.

• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.

• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.

“SAVING LIVES AND CREATING FAMILIES, THE NEW BRAUNFELS HUMANE SOCIETY’S MISSION AND IMPACT”

The Humane Society of the New Braunfels Area (HSNBA) is dedicated to more than just the well-being of animals; it aims to cultivate a compassionate community. Their mission revolves around promoting the humane treatment of animals, fostering respect, and understanding the interconnectedness between humans and pets.

“YOU ARE INVITED TO BE PART OF THIS COMMUNITY-DRIVEN SOLUTION TO OVERPOPULATION.”

HSNBA believes that the solution to overpopulation in shelters isn't building more cages but encouraging the community to open their homes to needy pets. Overpopulation is a community issue that requires a collective effort to solve. By advocating for fewer homeless animals in shelters and more in loving homes, HSNBA invites you to be part of this community-driven solution.

For individuals interested in fostering, HSNBA provides comprehensive support, including veterinary care, vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick medication, heartworm testing and prevention, and microchipping. The process of starting

fostering is straightforward and can be done quickly.

Becoming a foster parent involves varying levels of commitment tailored to fit different schedules and situations. Whether you can only spare a few weeks or are able to commit to a longer period, there's a fostering opportunity for you.

Volunteer opportunities at HSNBA are abundant and diverse, ranging from walking dogs and conducting playgroups to helping with dishes, laundry, and organizing. The Doggy Day Out program is a popular volunteer activity, allowing volunteers to take shelter dogs on fun outings around town. Volunteers play a

crucial role in helping animals feel more comfortable and safer, enhancing their chances of adoption.

Volunteering benefits both the animals and the volunteers. The time spent with animals provides essential interaction that helps them feel more secure in the shelter. Volunteers often witness the direct impact of their efforts, such as helping a dog transition from anxious to calm or assisting a new pet owner in finding their perfect match.

Supporting HSNBA through adoption, donations, and spreading their message on social media is invaluable for those who cannot foster or volunteer. Donations can be made in person, online, or via check, and sharing their posts helps increase awareness and reach potential adopters and supporters.

One heartwarming success story is that of Barron, a stray dog who arrived at HSNBA fearful and ill. Barron’s true, loving nature emerged with patience and care. After testing positive for Parvovirus, he received life-saving treatment from a local veterinary clinic and was fostered by a caring family. Barron fully recovered and was eventually adopted by a loving family, showcasing the powerful impact of community collaboration in saving lives.

By fostering, volunteering, donating, or simply sharing their message, individuals can join HSNBA in making a significant difference in the lives of animals and building a more compassionate community. Visit them at  https://www.hsnba.org/ to find out how you can make a difference.

Elevate your eye care Experience and take your Eyewear to the next level!

At Elevated Eye Care, Drs. Jennifer and Kymber Blaschke provide a personalized exam experience along with the latest technology to evaluate your vision and eye health needs. They see patients of all ages and specialize in: Pediatrics | Myopia Management | Vision Therapy Specialty Contacts | The Management of Ocular Diseases

www.elevatedeyecaretx.com | 830.221.9358 1750 E Common St, New Braunfels, Texas 78130 V@elevatedeyecaretx

DOG gone GOOD

Try these simple and healthy homemade treats for your furry friends. Not only are they easy to make, they are nutritious and seemingly delicious.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup milk or half and half

• 3 cups oatmeal

Directions:

In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter and milk on medium for 1 minute. Gradually add 2 1/2 cups oatmeal and stir. Use a small scoop or spoon to create 1/4 inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup oats to lightly top. Place into a closed container and refrigerate.

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup peanut butter

• 2 eggs

• 2 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat preferred)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix all ingredients except flour and blend well. Gradually add the flour until the dough isn’t sticky. Roll dough into a ball. Lightly flour your surface and lightly knead. Use a rolling pin to roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters and place dough on baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Drizzle with peanut butter (optional).

AUGUST 9TH

The Peddler Show

375 S Castell St., New Braunfels, TX | 12:00 PM

The Peddler Show travels to different Texas cities throughout the year with each show different from the last. Every show offers an entirely unique collection of selected inspired designers, boutiques and other exclusive vendors from all over for that particular weekend and city. Visit for more details https://peddler.tixonlinenow.com/newbraunfelsaug

AUGUST 10TH

12th Annual Wild West Casino Night

801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX | 6:00 PM

Yeehaw! Get ready for a rootin' tootin Wild West Casino Night packed with thrilling casino games, live entertainment, and live auctions. Dust off your boots, and best western attire, and mosey on over to the McKenna Events Center. Proceeds from this event will support the operating expenses of the Children's Advocacy Center of Comal County. For more information, visit http://www.comalcac.org

AUGUST 17TH

Back to School with the New Braunfels Food Bank

1620 S Seguin Ave New Braunfels, TX | 10:00 AM

NBFB will be distributing backpacks and school supplies to children in need. Pre-registration is required for this event. Children registered also needs to be present during the event. There will be games, face painting, photobooth and other fun activities for the kids and their family. Visit www.nbfoodbank.org for more details.

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

are