NewBraunfelsMagazine · Magazine has been! We would like to say “thank you” to the local businesses that support New Braunfels Magazine. Many New Braunfels area business owners

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New Braunfels Magazine is published by Community Circular Magazines, a subsidiary product of White-Frisbie Media. It is provided for the enjoyment and education of its readership. The information presented in this magazine is believed to be true at the time of publishing. Community Circular Magazines does not guarantee or warranty any of the services or products produced by the companies represented herein.

Community Circulars is a proud member in excellent standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). If you have any feedback on this publication, please contact us at 210-348-3709 or visit our web site at www.NewBraunfelsMagazine.com

contents12 Ralph Fair Jr. Called to Minister18 Corkscrew Corner

20 Encanto Grill: A Fresh Approach to Mexican Cuisine

22 No More Sleepless Nights

25 Seeing Red: Canyon High School Gets Nation’s First Red Football Field30 The Historic Faust Hotel & Brewery35 Marianne & Scy Caroselli: Mother & Daughter Sculptors38 How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

40 The Empty Cross43 Green Energy of San Antonio

34 Texas Ski Ranch Freezeride

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We would like to say “thank you” to the local businesses that support New Braunfels Magazine. Many New Braunfels area business owners and/or employees are also residents in the area; we appreciate their

support and thank them for the services they provide to our readers.

New Braunfels Magazine is a periodical published for the enjoyment of the greater New Braunfels area. Available at several local businesses and organizations, the magazine is intended to cover entertaining and informative topics that are of interest to the New Braunfels area community. The magazine is not affiliated with the City of New Braunfels or any other government agency and is supported by its advertisers.

We want your feedback!What do you think of our all-new New Braunfels Magazine? As a reader, we want to hear from you. If you have feedback on any of our articles, or the magazine itself, we want to know about it. We encourage you to visit our web site at www.NewBraunfelsMagazine.com and let us know what’s on your mind.

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To advertise your product or services in New Braunfels Magazine, please contact

Rachel Danley at210-348-3709 or by email at

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Copy EditorSheryl Hawkinson

SalesRachel Danley

Sheryl Hawkinson

AdministrativeRisa Castillo

Graphic DesignTaylor Davis

Michelle FortenberryJared HawkinsonLucy Hutchenson

James Tootle






I’m eager to begin this informative series of articles focusing on the enjoyment of wine. I’m in no way an expert of the divine fermented juice, simply a wine enthusiast with a desire to learn more. I enjoy continued training and studying the enormous array of wines and wine accessories that are abundantly available throughout the world.

The following series of articles will be written to invite you to discover and learn. Allowing you, the reader, to teach and enlighten me and other aficionados on the subject of fine wines. My articles will include researched information, personal experiences and of course related subjects derived from you, the readers. I look forward to sharing the information that comes my way.

Now, let’s take this journey together… Some may feel trapped following wine

etiquette from the past. We’ve been trained to drink whites with poultry and fish, and reds with dark meats, well this is no longer the case. Personally, I’m not at all trapped in the past wine and food pairing regulations. I know what I like and what I don’t. In fact, after a week long instructional course studying wine etiquette and “how to drink wine” my husband came home and simply told me that during the conclusion of the class, the instructor announced, “It all comes down to what you like.” Well, that answers it, if I feel like enjoying a glass of Merlot with my lobster dinner, then so be it. I’ll never have to worry about the wine police storming me from all corners of a restaurant, knocking the glass from my hand, guns drawn, and arrest me for not pairing a Sauvignon Blanc with my meal. Fortunately for us, times have changed and the human palate now has permission to enjoy whatever it desires with a fine lobster dinner.

Recently, a commercial on television featuring a specific credit card hit the airwaves. This card focuses on a new business serving wine,

I look forward to hearing from you. Send your suggestions, trials and errors to: [email protected] and feel free to follow my blog at: corkscrewcorner.blogspot.com

beer and… can you imagine cupcakes? This is proof that today’s wine enthusiasts have the authority to enjoy what they want with whatever they want, no limitations attached!

Be creative, challenge your taste buds. And more importantly friends, enjoy your new found freedom! Cheers!

Please remember to drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive.

“Freedom Found”B y S h e r y l h aw k i n S o n


Encanto Mexican Grilla Fresh approach to Mexican Cuisine

Fine dining in the area was recently transformed by the addition of Encanto Mexican Grill. The modern flare cuisine has a base of traditional Mexican flavors and European accents with a very strong and distinct menu. Every day fresh cooking utilizes the best ingredients and the qual-ity of each dish sets this restaurant apart.

The tradition of Encanto comes from two owners who are from two different parts of the world. Elia, coming from Italy and Manuel, from Mexico, both have a great appreciation for excellent food. They came together to create a new Mexican food concept that is a refreshing alter-native to the majority, offering an affordable and delicious cuisine that is missing in the area. The concept brings together traditional flavors of Mexico with a twist of European influences, with a result that is delicious and enticing.

Executive chef George Ojeda joins the team with over 17 years experi-ence in fine dining. Utilizing a background in rustic Mexican, Mediter-ranean, Moroccan and Greek styles, George was able to create his own beautiful interpretation of the concept. George said, “Our new menu redefines Traditional Mexican Cuisine by incorporating the European flair with deeper southern flavors.”

In the front of the house Tom Daly, Mayor of Selma, serves as General Manager, bringing experience in the industry and great energy.

Elia said, “This is something we enjoy: offering our customers a deli-cious cuisine. We want our guests to venture outside of Tex-Mex and see

that it is enjoyable.” Manuel adds, “More than serve our customers, we want our guests to have a happy enjoyable time.”

The menu includes authentic ceviche, delicious Mahi-Mahi fish tacos, shrimp enchiladas and Mexican steaks. Healthly and vegetarian dishes are available, while the entire menu is designed to be light without feeling heavy or greasy. Guacamole a mano, is freshly prepared table-side when ordered and the menu offers a large variety to make every experience unique. In addition, the menu includes American foods such as Angus burgers with optional jalapeños and children’s plates.

Fresh made desserts include, homemade flan, Mexican crème brûlée and Mexican chocolate mousse. While a thoughtfully selected wine list pairs beautifully with the menu and the Margaritas are made with 100% agave tequila.

The ambiance inside is comfortable and reflects the quality of cuisine that is served. Its private rooms are practical for parties and groups of 20 to 60 guests. Outside the patio offers seating with two gazebos and lounges and a plaza for live music.

The Encanto tradition is a personalized and elegant culinary experi-ence. It will definitely bring a greater appreciation of authentic cuisine to the area and be a favorite hot spot for delicious food and enjoyable dining. Additionally, Encanto Grill offers catering and can serve any style of delicious food for your next party or gathering.


Recently, a new client made an appointment and came to my office to discuss a concern that was keeping him awake at night. Before I had even closed the door to my office, Bill started to explain why he was there. He told me that a little over a year ago his brother Steve had a lawsuit filed against him by a neighbor who claimed that Steve’s septic system was making the neighbor’s family sick.

“Jim, my brother didn’t even know his septic system had a problem, and suddenly he was facing a lawsuit. I didn’t think it was a big deal until he told me recently that he was afraid of losing his life’s savings! I realized that what has happened to my brother could happen to anyone, so I want to find out what I can do to protect my assets. My CPA and my financial advisor both recommended that I meet with you ... so here I am.”

Bill gave me a few more details of the problems faced by his brother and then he started to tell me about his own life. After a successful business career, he and his wife had retired in San Antonio in 2003. His wife had died of cancer, so now he was alone. At least his three kids were in the area, and he loved to spend time with his grandchildren.

As Bill told me about the assets he had accumulated, I explained to him what was protected under Texas law, and what was not. He was disheartened to learn that most of his investment assets and his ranch were not protected. “Do you mean to tell me that if my turn comes up in the “lawsuit lottery”, I could lose all that we accumulated through a life of hard work and saving? I plan to leave my assets to my kids and grandkids. If I lost everything, I would be dependent upon them! I need to know if there is anything I can do to make sure that no one is able to take away my stuff.”

One of the most enjoyable parts of my practice is being able to provide solutions to the problems that my clients bring to my office. Every week, people just like Bill find their way to me, we work out a solution designed for their circumstances, and they end up with a plan ensuring that if they do get sued one day, their affairs are structured so that their wealth is preserved.

Protecting your assets is an increasingly important part of an estate plan designed to make you an unattractive target for plaintiff’s lawyers. Insurance is a first line of defense, but not always enough. Engaging an attorney to design your asset protection plan may be the missing piece in your estate plan. Many clients tell me that while they do intend to leave their estate as an inheritance for their children, their primary concern is that they be allowed to live out their retirement years in the manner they always planned.

Bill summed it up best when he said to me, “After all I have worked for in life, I want to make sure that I don’t end up scrambling to find a job after I thought I was retired.” The last time I talked to Bill he told me that he’s sleeping better ... and grateful for his asset protection plan.

If you would like to learn more about wealth preservation and estate planning, call us for a complimentary initial consultation. Please understand that asset protection planning is only effective when initiated before any claims are brought against you. Bill acted on time. His brother was too late.

No More Sleepless NightsBy Attorney James N. Voeller

Law Office of James N. Voeller, Attorney At Law19311 FM 2252 San Antionio, TX 78266

Phone: (210) 651-3851





Vance Hinton, a Houston area business owner and a New Braunfels resident of five years had his eye on the

Historic Faust Hotel for some time. “I really liked the Faust and I know I could do something with it.” says the local entrepreneur. Hinton is an electrical engineer by trade and Purdue graduate. He is the principal owner of Powerohm Resistors, a company producing industrial electrical com-ponents for transportation, factory automation, construc-tion and drilling industries. Soon after relocating to New Braunfels, Hinton’s wife, Priscilla, opened Kork Wine Bar with her business partner, Patricia Morris. Hinton, who travels occasionally for business, was interested in a ven-

ture close to his primary home in New Braunfels. His visions of owning the Faust came to fruition-

when he and business partners, Mike Crowe of Coving-ton, KY and Richard Jochen of Katy, TX, acquired the property in the fall of 2009. As the Managing Partner for The Faust venture, Hinton immediately set out to restore The Faust to its 1930s grandeur and preserve its rich history for generations to come. Built in 1929, The Faust gained a reputation as the wedding and honeymoon capitol of Texas during World War II, as soldiers were mar-ried to their brides and honeymooned at The Faust before departing to war.

Centrally located in downtown New Braunfels, The Faust has been an icon and gathering place in the com-munity throughout the years. The Faust was also the first choice for spectacular birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and receptions, a legacy that continues today in the historic grand ballroom and hotel.

With a gem of history at his command, Hinton set out to provide the attention and repairs the property needed. He took on the job not only as a businessman, but also as a philanthropist.

To restore the 60-room hotel, Hinton sought out to preserve the Art Deco style of the 20s and 30s, while incorporating modern amenities and comfort. “We implemented modern conveniences such as desks, hair

dryers, irons, and ironing boards in all rooms, ame-nities that were missing. A third suite has been add-ed, and each suite has additional amenities such as a Keurig Coffee brewer, Brita water pitcher, iPod/iPhone docking alarm clock, lighted make-up mirrors, two flat screen TVs, refrigerator, microwave, and a bag of im-ported chocolates.

The hotel is approximately one-third through the restration process. Hinton is working to outfit each room with appropriately adorned antiques, which is a process requiring a great deal of time. With all the improvements The Faust’s reputation as a luxury hotel is on the horizon and it is a great place for family and friends to stay when they are in town.


Hinton’s investments in the property are not limited to the hotel. “The Faust is several businesses rolled into one. It includes the hotel, events, bar, brewery and full kitchen,” said Hinton. With an impressive bar attached to the hotel, locals and guests can enjoy the history of the Faust seven nights a week.

The upscale brewery features a granite-topped bar and tables and is a smoke-free facility. In the upcoming weeks, the brewery will be outfitted with a new glycol system, new beer lines, and two new draft towers. The brewery equipment is also receiving upgrades that are needed to create the Faust’s line of four signature beers along with several seasonal beers. In addition to upgrading the equipment for the 200-gallon brewing system, a smaller 20-gallon system has recently been added to facilitate the brewing of the seasonal beers. Until the brewery is operational, the pub currently features eight unique beers on tap from a variety of locales, including three from Texas.

Ray Mitteldorf, a professional brewmaster with 12 years of experience, recently joined The Faust team to manage all aspects of the brewing operation. Mit-teldorf has successfully brewed an Altbier recipe spe-cifically for The Faust. The Altbier is a German dark beer that is prevalent around the Dusseldorf area of Germany. The Alt will surely become a favorite here in

New Braunfels. The Faust also plans to have a Pale Ale, and an India Pale Ale, among others. Mitteldorf would like to be creative with the seasonal beers, and plans to make a variety of styles such as Espresso Stout, Irish Red, Irish Stout, Kölsche, Dunkel, Hefeweizen, and possibly others.

“It’s exciting to be able to brew each of our beers,” Hinton said, “marketing efforts will be involved with each beer to create an identity and to reflect its per-sonality.” Each batch of beer is equivalent to 14 kegs and the complete process takes two to eight weeks, de-pending on the beer type. The last pieces of equipment will be added to the main brewing system in the com-ing weeks and Hinton expects to share the first frosty brews from this system as early as April 2011. In the meantime, the smaller system will be used to produce an Irish Red and an Irish Stout, which will be ready to serve on St. Patrick’s Day.

The Faust Brewing Company beers will be exclu-

sively available at The Faust, but with plans to

provide free samples at the New Braunfels Expo

on Sunday May 1 from 1-6 pm, The Faust Brewing

Company is sure to be a highlight of the event.

By Rachel Danley




You may think that the single largest source of wasted energy in your home is the fact that your kids stand in front of the open refrigerator door while trying to decide what to eat next. However, you might be surprised to learn that homes lose most of their energy through old and drafty windows and doors. According to Martin Bomba, owner of Window World, there are a variety of reasons that windows can fail and become points of energy loss.

“Old, aluminum, single-paned windows offer no thermal efficiency and act as little more than a wind break.”

Other points of failure in older or poorly installed windows, include rigid spacers between panes that do not allow for expansion and contraction with variable temperatures. This can cause condensation to build up between double-paned windows and allow air to pass through.

Bomba states, “Window World vinyl windows offer energy efficient Low-E glass, along with a warm-edge spacer that is not thermal conductive, so it expands and contracts as needed to accommodate changes in temperature.”

The average life of a builder-grade window is typically only 8 to 10 years. After that, the weather stripping can begin to breakdown between the window sashes, allowing air to pass through, which can often lead to whistling windows. One way to determine if the seal on your window is still good or starting to fail, is to take a dollar bill and slip it between the window sashes when your window is open. Then close and lock your window, and try to pull the dollar bill back out. If you are able to pull the dollar bill back out, then the seal is not effective.

“Comfort World windows from Window World all feature interlocking, double barrier weather stripping at sash sides to protect against air infiltration.”

Other elements that can cause poor energy efficiency include poorly caulked electrical outlets, windows, siding and doors. Inadequate insulation in walls and attics, along with old appliances will also cause your home to lose energy and your heating and cooling costs to rise.

Most older homes do not have enough, if any, insulation in their exterior walls. Any type of overlapped siding will have drafts, as it is hard to completely seal wood or fiber cement siding and offers no insulating properties. Window World also offers an incredibly energy efficient siding product called Prodigy by Alside. Prodigy siding is virtually maintenance free and has high-performance built-in insulation bonded securely to the plank. Its interlocking panel design ensures a tight fit with no gaps that need to be caulked.

Bomba further states, “Prodigy is a ‘green’ product that never needs to be painted, is fire and insect resistant, and it is completely recyclable.” Prodigy offers an R-Value of 5.3, versus a .2 value for fiber cement siding’.” That’s five times the energy efficiency of ordinary siding.

There are many ways to increase the energy efficiency of your home. You can get a true picture of where your home’s points of waste occur with an energy audit from your local utility company. A small investment in your home can provide huge energy savings over the years, and once the kids are out of the house, you’ll save even more!

by Meredith Keller

How To Make Your Home More

EnergyEfficient


Our world today is bombarded from all angles with disorder, fear and pandemonium on a daily basis. However, as difficult as it has been, there is a group of people that have, with determination, been able to stay focused on love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control with a purpose to accomplish a long awaited victory over the world of hate and mayhem.

In 2001, Max and Sherry Greiner knew, after hearing from God, they were to construct places around the world where all people could draw closer to the peace most of us desire. For this reason, in 2004 the Grainer’s founded The Coming King Foundation. An outreach designed for all who have the desire to draw closer to Jesus Christ within beautiful meditative gardens placed throughout our nation and the world.

Not only one religious denomination is represented in this outreach, instead there are 17 Trustees from different denominations taking part in providing these gardens. Many well know advocates of Jesus Christ support the agenda, including Governor Mike Huckabee, Dr. James Dobson, Franklin Graham, Dr. Pat Roberston, Rick Warren, and the late Dr. Bill Bright and Dr. Oral Roberts all supporting The Coming King Foundation through prayer.

Written by Sheryl Hawkinson • Photos by HeloPhotography.com

Over two million dollars have been provided by individuals across

America in support of the common goal. Not only have the funds been raised without professional fundraisers or public tax money, but many Christian artists have donated time and sculptures valued at three million dollars welcoming guests to the gardens.

Only 60 miles from downtown San Antonio in the city of Kerrville is this landmark in the making. The 23 acre “Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden” site, donated by the Hershel Reid family of Dallas, TX, welcomes drivers above Interstate Highway 10 with a 77’7” tall, 70 ton, contemporary iron sculpture named The Empty Cross. The cross which is located half way between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans began its erection on the 1,930’ high hill the morning of July 26, 2010.

With many people in support of the cross, there are plenty who are against the cross as well. Opponents and challengers continue to throw attacks, lawsuits and threats against the cross and its founders yet the cross remains upright and strong at the same latitude as Israel.

Foundation Trustee, Dr. Bruce Cook of Austin said: “Cities and nations have destinies and identities just like people. The city of Kerrville has long been associated with art, music, wildlife, fine foods, and retirement. Tourism is a natural outgrowth and outcome of the local heritage and natural scenic inheritance of the area. Kerrville is destined to become a destination attraction.”

Artist Max Greiner Jr., designed the hollow sculpture as a spiritual reminder of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Christians know that Jesus hung on the cross, taking upon Himself the sins of the world. After three days He rose, defeating death, hence The Empty Cross. If you have not yet accepted His gift of salvation, The Empty Cross is your invitation to surrender your life unto Him. “For it is by grace you have been saved.”

The garden, when completed, will display 77 Bible scriptures on 16” engraved ceramic tiles in languages from around the world.

To find out how you can take part in this amazing work, visit: www.TheComingKingFoundation.org. Guided tours

are possible by calling TCKF office at 830-367-7706


Boulder Springs brings rustic elegance and Hill Country charm to New Braunfels as the area’s newest Special Event facility. Created by the same owners as the highly successful Texas Old Town just south of Austin, the Boulder Springs facility is the culmination of years of experience with hundreds of events. Every detail of the facility has been designed to create the perfect backdrop for special celebrations.

The long winding driveway takes guests out of the everyday world to a beautiful hill country oasis surrounded by meadows and live oaks. The Banquet Hall features a portico which is perfect for a limousine or carriage arrival in any weather. Limestone walls and rough wood timbers throughout the facility add to the Hill Country atmosphere. The ample space inside the climate controlled hall easily accommodates up to 350 guests and features a stage, caterers prep room, and a built-in stone buffet table paired with a rustic stone bar.

With so many built-in features and amenities like the tables, chairs, and the outdoor PA system included in the rental price, Boulder Springs is a great value. Another great value is their photography package. They have their own Facility Photographer and allow you to use his services for your wedding at a greatly reduced cost. Unlike many facilities which

Boulder SpringsNewest Event Center in New Braunfels Now Open!

only give you a window of several hours for your event, the facility is available from 8am to midnight the day of your event.

For the bride, there is a huge fully furnished dressing suite with plenty of space for a large bridal party to prepare. One very unique feature of this room is the two entrances. One goes directly outside; the other takes you up the back steps to the Grand Staircase so the bride and groom can be presented to their guests while walking down the majestic staircase – quite a show stopper!

Outside, you’ll find a covered porch along the entire length of the building looking out onto the Outdoor Ceremony Site. Two ponds, a cascading waterfall and a creek wind through the manicured lawn leading out to the timber and stone Arbor. Guests sit in elegant white chairs as they enjoy the ceremony and the Hill Country view beyond.

In addition to Weddings, Boulder Springs has the flexibility to host many kinds of events including Quinceañeras, Anniversaries, Graduation Parties and Corporate Events. Once a month, they host an Opry Nite featuring live country music. For more information and to schedule a tour of the facility, contact Anita at 512-585-5899 or [email protected]


Today more than ever there is a great need to have only the most reputable contractors help you analyze your energy saving needs. President and owner of Green Energy of San Antonio, Richard Ramos explains, “It is our belief that the needs of our customers come first. We know that many home owners have had their share of bad experiences in the past with contractors. We train our team to meet and exceed our client’s expectations and assist them in what can be a frustrating and confusing process.” Offering elite, top of the line products, Green Energy of San Antonio offers the industry’s best insulation, window and gutter products to homeowners.

Ramos and Green Energy of San Antonio have earned an outstanding reputation by helping clients save money each and every day in their homes. Utilizing a Green Energy Barrier, one of the exclusive products offered by the company, homeowners enjoy the many benefits of having a “radiant barrier” in their homes equivalent to seven feet of insulation. With technology developed by NASA to protect astronauts from the extreme hot and cold temperatures in space, Green Energy Barriers offer the same protection to homes. The surprisingly thin foil lining is designed to work on its own, or in conjunction with existing insulation in the attic of a home, blocking the transfer of 97% of radiant heat.

The result: heat is reflected back into a home in the winter and reflected out through the roof in the summer. With less energy required to heat and cool the home, energy bills are drastically reduced up to 30-40% and the inside of the home is more comfortable and enjoyable throughout.

Installation takes less than a day and the Green Energy Barrier carries a ten year warranty and requires no maintenance. Certified Green Energy Installers also pledge that clients will save at least 25% on their energy costs.

In addition to the Green Energy Barrier, a specially designed Ridge Vent provides an unobtrusive vent along the roof to allow pressure to escape.

Another exclusive product is the GutterPro SnapLock Gutter System. With this system, homes are protected from rain, without requiring holes through the facia board. Preventing moisture and mold from entering the home. With either standard gutters or the elite SnapLock system, GutterPro by Green Energy of San Antonio provides customers with an unprecedented lifetime transferrable warranty.

Ramos explains the company philosophy, “Our sales staff has been trained to ask and listen to what our customers’ needs are. It is not about how much material we can sell, or how big of a sale we can leave with, but it is about finding out the needs of the customer, and providing that service to them.”

As a family owned and operated business, Green Energy of San Antonio, has even provided complimentary services to local consumers taken advantage of by other companies. Recently covered on Kens 5 Eye Witness Wants to Know, an elderly woman paid to have a gutter replaced only to find out her existing gutter was simply covered up. When the company failed to correct the problem, Richard Ramos and Green Energy stepped in to provide a new gutter to the woman at no charge.

This type of service is not uncommon for Richard Ramos. Above all, he believes his job is to help people in this world.

The company welcomes the opportunity to earn your trust and deliver the best service in the industry. Please visit

www.GreenEnergyofSA.com to request a free, no obligation estimate.




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NewBraunfelsMagazine · Magazine has been! We would like to say “thank you” to the local businesses that support New Braunfels Magazine. Many New Braunfels area business owners