The number of homes sold in the 78130 ZIP code decreased by 17.2%. The number of homes sold in the 78132 ZIP code decreased by 19.1%, according to the most recent data compiled by the Four Rivers Association of Realtors.

More details: The average price of homes listed for sale in the two New Braunfels ZIP codes over the past six months was in the $347,000-$640,000 range.

In September, year-over-year median home prices decreased by 3% in the 78130 ZIP code, but increased by 14.7% in the 78132 ZIP code.

The number of homes under contract increased year over year in both New Braunfels ZIP codes. Homes under contract in the 78130 ZIP increased by nearly 70% year over year.

Mytisha Baker discovered her passion for cooking during her 14-year stint in the military. Now, she is bringing those skills to New Braunfels with Tish's Homestyle Cooking.

Meet the chef: Originally from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Baker has served in many roles over the years: veteran, mom, wife, cosmetologist, culinary school student. But now she is adding a new title: business owner.

While pursuing a business degree full-time, Baker manages her business, cooks all the food and creates the recipes offered on the menu.

Craving comfort food? Tish's Homestyle Cooking—a mobile catering and food trailer specializing in comfort food—opened in May. The menu features chicken bites, rib tips, mozzarella sticks and peach cobbler.

To Baker, homestyle cooking is comfort food. She said it reminds her of home, her grandma and a rainy day.

"To me, homestyle cooking isn’t about one particular type of food. It’s about taking whatever I’m cooking and putting my own love, flavor and personality into it," Baker said.

The New Braunfels Visitor Center is moving away from I-35 into a historic home.

What’s happening: The New Braunfels Visitor Center is relocating from 237 I-35 to the Hinmann House at 161 S. Castell Ave. The Hinmann House, built around 1868, is the city’s first building made from hand-cut German limestone and has been carefully restored.

The visitor center was initially established as a standalone highway facility in 1997 to accommodate the influx of tourists traveling along I-35, according to a presentation given by New Braunfels Visitor Center Manager Mason Dyer during an Oct. 6 downtown association meeting.

A closer look: In its new space, the visitor center will have a “Postcard Place” where community members can become pen pals with residents at local retirement homes and showcase historic postcards. The Sophienburg Museum + Archives will provide the postcards. Children will also be able to write letters and mail them to Santa, according to the presentation.

Interested in volunteering in the San Marcos, Buda and Kyle communities? Check out this list of local nonprofit organizations that offer a wide range of opportunities.

• PAWS Shelter of Central Texas, an animal welfare nonprofit and no-kill rescue.

• San Marcos Greenbelt Alliance, which protects and maintains local natural areas and trails.

• San Marcos River Foundation, an organization advocating for river protection through conservation and education.

• The Eyes of the San Marcos River, a nonprofit focused on environmental stewardship and river cleanups.

• Austin Angels, which supports children and families experiencing foster care.

• CASA of Central Texas, an organization providing advocacy for children and youth in the child welfare system.

• Central Texas Food Bank, a hunger-relief nonprofit serving a 21-county area.

• Hays County Food Bank, which offers food assistance programs and advocacy.

• Southside Community Center, a center providing daily meals, hygiene kits, shelter and financial support.

• San Marcos Community and Police Association, which hosts a Blue Santa program providing Christmas gifts.

• The Friends of the Buda Library, which is dedicated to fostering a love of reading.