Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine - January/February 2012

Volume 4, Issue 1

•

January/February 2012

Artist.

Broadcast Guru.

Good Guy. EVER THE GENTLEMAN, PHIL LANE

ALSO:

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Bringing the highest quality of dance instruction to the Boerne/Bulverde area, Lonestar Collective Dance prides itself on a fun and exciting dance experience including competition and convention opportunities. For ages 2-Adult.

635 State Highway 46 E #104 | Boerne, TX 78006 | 830.336.3877 | www.lonestarcollective.com | info@lonestarcollective.com Michelle Becken & Mary Rae Moy, Directors

Photography by West Vita

This isn’t just any construction project, this is your home and there’s a lot on the line. The guidance and discernment must be exceptional, and the details exacting. The relationships and trust must be genuine and true. At Robert S. Thornton Great Homes we form a team – starting with the client through the architect/designer, supervisors, interior designers, longstanding subcontractors and vendors. And if the team and relationships are right the process and product will be unsurpassed.

From inception through long term service we strive to please. If you’re in the market for a new home just ask around, and along with rave reviews we know that they’ll share that we are creative, honest, hardworking and trustworthy – for your sake and ours.

Thank you to each of our 60+ friends and clients of Cordillera Ranch for allowing us the opportunity to be a part of your team.

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OUR DESIGNS VARY, OUR REPUTATION DOESN’T. The appearances of our homes are as different as each of our homeowners’ dreams. But each home is designed, crafted, and constructed with the same meticulous attention to detail. From the marriage of the design to the land; the relationship of outdoor living areas with indoor space; interior traffic patterns and natural flow from one living area to another; to features and appointments that define elegance. There is only one way to build a Burdick & Christofilis Custom Home: we will exceed your expectations by meeting ours.

830 . 229 . 5176 burdickhomes.com

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LIVING www.cordilleraranch.com 830.336.3570 www.facebook.com/cordillera.ranch

PUBLISHERS: Schooley Media Ventures, LLC / Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation SCHOOLEY MEDIA VENTURES, LLC CEO/PRESIDENT Benjamin D. Schooley ben@smvtexas.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Benjamin Weber ben.weber@smvtexas.com CORDILLERA RANCH DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION VICE PRESIDENT Charlie Hill cphill@cordilleraranch.com CONTACT: Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine 265 N. Main Boerne, TX 78006 210-507-5250 info@smvtexas.com

CONTENTS

Cover & cover feature photography provided by West Vita Photography.

830-431-1157 www.westvita.com

14 Welcome Letter

46 C A Star Student

16 New Property Owners & Members

48 Fashion - Moms on the go 60 Fine Art, Fine Living

18 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 62 Fitness - Fit for the new year 24 GOLF - MARC DEWALL 28 Ports, Wines & Chocolates 30 Chef’s Secrets

64 Developer Riding the Energy Boom 66 Builder’s corner Rules of bidding

34 Cordillera Ranch Scene 36 COVER STORY - Artist, Tv guru all-around good guy

68 HOME TOUR - It’s Even Better The Second time around 73 CORDILLERA RANCH REALTY

44 STAFF PROFILE Stephanie monsanto

10 | January/february 2012

Moms On The Go feature photography provided by Ben Weber Photography 830-285-5477 www.benweberdesign.com Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 265 N. Main, Boerne, TX 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2008.

All rights reserved. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions. Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The content contained does not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation, Schooley Media Ventures, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents. Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

Acacia Landscape and Design, Inc. is dedicated to quality work

and customer satisfaction in both residential and commercial venues.

We have been serving the greater Boerne and Hill Country areas, as well as north San Antonio for 15 years, specializing in landscape design and installation, irrigation systems, and lawn maintenance programs.

We offer the following services: · Landscape Design and Installation · Irrigation Installation and Repair (including water efficient drip irrigation) · Lawn Maintenance programs · Outdoor Kitchens · Hardscapes including: Fire Pits, Seat Walls, Retaining Walls, Patios · Arbors, Pergolas, Split Rail Cedar Fencing, and more Our goal is to serve you and to improve the appearance and value of your property, extending your home into the outdoors. Because we are from here, we know what plants will thrive in our environment, both in respect to wildlife and weather. We will incorporate a variety of plants that blossom at different times to ensure 10 months of color. While not in bloom, strategic placement of evergreen and variegated foliage, along with material color and texture will keep your lawn pleasing year round.

From a new design and installation to revamping your existing landscape, we can help you achieve your ideal outdoor living experience and environment. Call us today. Our staff is ready to assist you.

32005 I-10 E | Boerne, TX 78006 830.981.5296 www.acacialandscapeanddesign.com

welcome

W

elcome to the fourth year of the Cordillera Ranch Living magazine. Having grown each year in size and distribution, the Living magazine continues to highlight Cordillera Ranch’s most unique feature, its residents. 2011 brought us a diverse mix of people and their unique stories that all have one thing in common: Cordillera Ranch. Thank you to all of the cover features who have taken the time to share a little about their stories with the rest of us.

This issue’s cover feature, Phil Lane, has recently relocated to Cordillera Ranch with wife, Beth, and son, Christopher. They have found many similarities between the outdoor beauty of Cordillera Ranch and their previous home in South Carolina, easing the cross-country relocation. Even though they are new to the community, they are quickly getting involved in all of the activities on the ranch. The Lanes have found the perfect balance between Hill Country recreation and the convenience of the city, something that is not always easy to do. Enjoy taking a peak into his television broadcast career and see how it has lead him all over the U.S., finally bringing him to our neighborhood for what we all hope is his final stop.

Have a Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Charlie Hill Vice President Cordillera Ranch

14 | January/february 2012

Proudly Serving Cordillera Ranch Since 1997

Te a m i n g U p t o G i v e Yo u a S t r a i t D e a l E v e r y T i m e .

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49 New Members: Aric & Stacy Evatt Barry & Mary Colacurci Bill & Merilee Lewis Bob & Randy Albers Brad & Melissa Bynam Chris & Cathryn Cheatwood Chris & Susan Thompson Coleen Grissom Craig & Nedra Edwards David & Dianna Billhartz David & Gail Sanders Dick & Veronica Rothwell Don & Kris Rymer Elaine Palance Eric & Jennifer Lawitz Gary & Judy Hyde Gerardo & Graciela Gonzalez Grant & Iris Thompson Greg & Susan Maxwell Gregory & Alexis Cook James & Patricia Davis James & Tammy Evatt Jeff & Mary Smith Jeremy & Melissa Peters John & Susan Boyd

Jon & Ellen Yarbrough Kelley & Courtney Chisholm Kevin & Mandi Pease Lee & Julie McLoy Luciano & Sherri Reyes Mark & Amy Ogden Mark & Suzanne Bielstein Matt & Lisa Childs Michael & Berit Gissell Michael & Kathleen Watson Michael & Shelly Badgett Morris & Theresa Goen Nick & Isabelle Mumford Paul & Ellen Yates Phil & Beth Lane Phil & Karen Hunke Rick & Julia Roth Robert & Claudia Heath Roxana Ibanez Cuenca & Felipe Mendoza Sandra Ragan Steve & Mary Brook Thomas & Cecilia Irwin Troy & Jennifer Jewell William & Christi Coster

16 | january/february 2012

51 New Residents:

Alberto & Josefa Volpe Amy & Mark Ogden Barbara Rogers Barry & Mary Colacurci Bill & Christi Coster Bob & Patti Blakely Bob & Nancy Zwerneman  Brent & Esther Jenkins Brian & Diane Treusdell Butch & Lea Stokes Cecil & Linda Barcelo Chris & Susan Thompson Craig & Nedra Edwards Daniel & Mercedes LaLonde David & Angela Moore Deborah & Richard Winsor Dick & Veronica Rothwell Eric & Jennifer Lawitz Frank & Carol Matter Frank & Denny Allen Frank & Isabella Mumford Grant & Iris Thompson Greg & Alexis Cook Guillermo Sesma Harold & Rita Barrow

Herman & Molly Little James & Gwen Stewart Jeremy & Melissa Peters Jim & Leslie Sides Joe & Jeri Guyton John & Rose Monday Kelley & Courtney Chisholm Les & Terrie Whitman Linda & Gary Mixon Komperda Mark & Connie Proudfoot Mark & Lisa Roll Mark Volpe Matt & Lisa Childs Michael & Kathleen Watson Molly & Herman Little Nat & Lindsay Mangum Paul & Sarah Barowsky Phil & Beth Lane Richard & Johanna Webb Richard & Kristin Martin Robert & Michelle Hobbs Robert & Randy Albers Roy & Janice Keith Steve Vallone Tim & Kay Dunn Van & Jodi Wilkinson

CALENDAR : MEMBER TRADITIONS Tuesday Evenings FAMILY FRIENDLY BUFFET

Wednesday Evenings CORDILLERA RANCH GOLD RUSH

Thursday Evenings PLENTY FOR $20

5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

A buffet filled with great food everyone will enjoy. On select nights, drink specials will be offered for the adults! The best part…kids eat free!

We will draw a member’s name from our Membership Roster. If that person or anyone in their immediate family is in the main clubhouse at the time of the drawing they will be awarded the current club credit. ($50 added for next week’s drawing if winner not present)

5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Every Thursday evening enjoy our fantastic features, accompanied by a specialty wine menu featuring selections from around the World for only $20 per bottle.

Thursday - Saturday Evenings CORDILLERA RANCH’S FRESH STEAK AND SEAFOOD MARKET MENU

Friday Evenings SIGNATURE DINING

Saturdays CARDIO TENNIS

5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Join us for dinner at the club as we spotlight our chef’s finest steak and seafood features, delivering an unparalleled fine dining experience.

Featuring live entertainment from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Join us for an elegant dining experience, live music and Chef’s finest features. Advance reservations strongly suggested.

Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Contact Cordillera Ranch Tennis Pro Glenn at 830.336.4660 at the tennis shop or by e-mail: gbarton@cordilleraranch.com.

Keep up with new events at the Clubs on facebook at www.facebook.com/cordillera.ranch and on twitter at twitter.com/cordilleraranch

The Clubs of

Cordillera Ranch www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com 830.336.9000 Visit this site for more information on: Ladies’ Golf Events Sporting Clay Leagues Men’s Golf Events Tennis Leagues Guided Fishing Excursions Equestrian Activities

Relax and Rejuvenate with The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Spa Services. Featuring an array of services including massage therapy, facials, manicures and pedicures Tammy Stone, Nail Technician 210.833.0083 tammystone1958@yahoo.com Martha Miehe-Renard, Massage Therapist & Pilates Instructor 830.446.1140 marthamiehe@hotmail.com Karen Walton, Massage Therapist 210.363.6194 Lois Garber, Esthetician 210.415.1771

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EVENTS : CALENDAR JANUARY January 11th Fitness & Spa Open House

January 13 Stock Show Junior Tennis Extravaganza

January 19th 3rd Thursday Art & Wine Stroll ”Ports, Wines & Chocolates”

Join us Wednesday, January 11th in conjunction with Gold Rush to get exclusive member pricing from Marathon Fitness on exercise equipment and learn about the new opportunities at the Spa Club!

This will be a fun & competitive Round-Robin doubles event. Play will begin at 11:00 a.m. and finish around 2:30 p.m. This event is for 9 to 17 year olds and snacks and beverages will be provided.

Stroll through The Club as we feature unique art from Texas Treasures Fine Art of Boerne.

Several wines available for purchase at our Pre-Sale Shop; live music and delicious food will accompany this already popular event.

See you there!

January 21st Texas Concealed Handgun License (CHL) Course

January 24th New Year – New Friends Social with “Pass the Purse”

January 25th Cellar Club Members Only Appreciation Tasting

The CHL course is not about being an expert with a handgun, but understanding how to act with intelligence and common sense. A Texas Concealed Handgun permit holder must have a basic understanding of the Texas Concealed Handgun (Concealed Carry) Law, as well as Chapter 9 (Force and Deadly Force) of the Texas Penal Code. If you are interested signing up, please contact Shane at 830.336.4823 or via email at sreynolds@ cordilleraranch.com.

6:00 p.m - 9:00 p.m.

Clubhouse Main Dining Room Fun, rotating-social format to mix, mingle and meet members you haven’t met before. Must bring a gently used purse for game format and charity offer. $25 Lite food/wine

Our way of saying thank you to all our new Cellar Club members.

Time: 9:00 a.m. Shotgun Format: 4-Man Scramble (form your own team or the Golf Shop can pair you) Entry Fee: $50 includes food and prizes

FEBRUARY January 28th Family Fishing Come enjoy a fun-filled morning of fishing tailored for everyone in the family.

The workshop will provide the opportunity for families to spend time together while learning the basics of fishing through handson instruction. Class size is limited to 8 participants. Children 6 years old or older are welcomed and must be accompanied by an adult. Program held at the Swede Creek Lake.

For more information or to sign up, contact Shane at sreynolds@cordilleraranch.com or call the Outfitter Center at 830.336.4823.

February 18th Introduction to Shotgun Sports Learn the basics of shooting a shotgun. This course is designed for members who have little to no experience with shotguns. Each shooter will have the opportunity to shoot targets at the Wobble Trap station at the Gun Club. Field exercises will vary with age, size and experience of the shooters. Shooters under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age is 8 years old or 100 lbs.

January 28th MGA Kick-Off Scramble

February 9 The Red and White Ladies Extravaganza This classic event is a Round-Robin doubles event for the ladies. Please wear red and white and there is only room for 16 players so sign up quick! Play starts promptly at 9:00 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. Chocolate covered strawberries, beverages and Danishes will be served to fight off any morning appetites.

February 16th 3rd Thursday Art & Wine Stroll “Wines from Down Under: Australia & New Zealand” Stroll through The Club as we feature unique art from Texas Treasures Fine Art of Boerne.

Several wines available for purchase at our Pre-Sale Shop; live music and delicious food will accompany this already popular event.

See you there!

February 23 Men’s Tennis League begins On February 23rd the Cordillera Ranch Evening Men’s Doubles League will begin.

Play starts at 6:30 p.m. sharp. The league will be contested for six weeks. All levels of play are welcome and beverages will be served during play.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 19

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Golf GOLF

Happy New Year! I wanted to take an opportunity to share with you some of the exciting things we are working on for 2012.

There were a number of successful events last year that we hope to build on this year. Most notably, the Men’s Golf Association Cup Qualifying will be in its second year and should continue to grow in popularity. The first MGA event of the year will be the MGA Kick-Off Scramble set for Saturday January 28th. The Cordillera Women’s Golf Association will have their first official event of the year on Wednesday January 11th with a 4-Person Scramble. The entire 2012 Member Tournament Schedule can now be found online at www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com by clicking on the Golf Calendar. I hope you will find time this year to participate in some of the tournaments as they are a great way to test yourself as well as meet new friends.

Enhancing Your Golf Experience in 2012: In an effort to highlight winners of some Cordillera Ranch’s most prestigious golf events, we have been working on the Cordillera Ranch Champions Gallery. The Champions Gallery is a way to recognize the winners of many of our major tournaments and this project nearing completion and will serve as a great way to honor our champions.

New for 2012 is the ability for our members to now enter their own scores into the GHIN Online Handicap System. This gives our members great flexibility and a chance to learn even more about handicapping as well as their own game from GHIN reports that are available to them through the system.

An event registration system will be introduced to clubsofcordilleraranch.com and will provide easily accessible information regarding event details and make it more convenient to sign-up and participate. This option may not be utilized for every tournament, but look for it to be introduced for a few of the bigger events this year.

Finally, we have a few travel opportunities this year through the Cordillera Ranch Signature Vacations series. We will be traveling to Vail, Colorado in March for a ski trip as well as a great golf and outdoor adventure return trip to Maui Hawaii in later spring as well.

In September, I will be traveling with some members to the great destination of Whistling Straits in Wisconsin.

We are always looking for ways to grow and improve our golf operation so please let us know if you have any suggestions that will help us improve the member golf experience here at the Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. It is a goal of mine to play more golf this year so please keep me or any of our professional staff in mind if you have an opening in your group. Best wishes for a great New Year!

See you on the course, Marc DeWall, PGA Director of Golf, The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch mdewall@cordilleraranch.com | 830.336.4653

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TIPSANDTRICKS Hybrid Fitting For many players, long irons (numbers 2-4) are difficult to hit even with modern clubfaces. This is due to mainly to the low trajectory and very small face of the low-loft club head. The answer to this dilemma for many players is to replace the 2-4 irons with hybrids.

This is where Hybrid Fitting is important. Hybrid Fitting will determine which and how many hybrids to carry to maintain distance gaps with your longer clubs. Even tour professionals are carrying more hybrids; KJ Choi carried 2, 3, 4, and 5 hybrids this year on tour.

The lower the irons, the less the gap for carry distances you will have. For most amateurs, this falls toward the 4 or 5 irons. For ladies, it can fall toward the 6 or 7 irons.

To determine your own Hybrid Fitting take the following steps: 1. Hit your 6 iron. Determine the carry distance.

2. Hit your 5 iron. Determine the carry distance.

Continue the process until you get to the lower irons.

You will find the carry distance will decrease as the irons get lower. Ideally, you want to maintain a 10 to 15 yard gap. When you determine what iron does not have an effective gap then that is where you will need a hybrid. For

example, you may carry your 6 iron 160 yards and your five iron 165 yards. At this point, you may need to look at the 5-hybrid that you can hit 170-175 yards because you maintain your gap by hitting it farther and it is easier to hit.

If you have any questions, please contact us in the Golf Shop. We are more than happy to help you with your Hybrid Fitting.

UPCOMING EVENTS

GOLF

JANUARY

MGA Cup Qualifying January 13-15 Format: Individual stroke play Entry Fee: $10 Call the Golf Shop for details

830.336.4653 | mdewall@cordilleraranch.com

MGA Kick-Off Scramble January 28th Time: 9:00am Shotgun Format: 4-Man Scramble (Form your own team or the Golf Shop can pair you) Entry Fee: $50 includes food and prizes

FEBRUARY

MGA Cup Qualifying February 17-19 Format: Individual stroke play Entry Fee: $10 Call the Golf Shop for details

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 25

GOLF

Wow! What an incredible experience I had in November as The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch hosted the 31st Annual Texas Joe Black Cup Matches. This annual Ryder Cup style competition pits the top 12 players from the Northern Texas PGA (NTPGA) vs. their counterparts from the Southern Texas PGA (STPGA). The matches have been historically very close with the NTPGA holding the slimmest of margins, 15-14-1.

The festivities began on Sunday November 13th in the evening with the Opening Ceremonies and Welcome Dinner taking place after an afternoon practice round. A special Wine Dinner was prepared by Chef Dwight Webb and his culinary team for all of the participants, captains, sponsors and special guests. Mr. Joe Black, longtime PGA Professional and tournament namesake, was once again present.

Mr. Black has been an inspiration to many golf professionals and it was great listening to him speak. Bill Rogers was the featured speaker and he shared many stories of his time as a Ryder Cup player and Assistant Captain in 1999 at Brookline. The players were introduced by their respective captains’ and the matches were officially opened.

nners of the 2011 Joe

South Texas Team, Wi

Black Cup

Monday morning the Four Ball Matches began with the STPGA taking a 4-2 lead. The Singles Matches were delayed on Tuesday morning with stormy weather, and finally began off of #1 and #10 with a split-tee start. The NTPGA came out very strong by winning 3.5 points in the first four matches of the day. But the STPGA stayed steady and captured 6 of the next 8 matches to win the Cup! The final tally was STPGA 14 and NTPGA 10.

Serving as Captain of the STPGA is one of the highlights of my professional career thus far. To be elected by my peers meant a great deal and the event was something I will cherish for many years to come. I had a few good friends that made the team this year that made it even more special. It also was great to form a bond with a few players that I had not had the opportunity to spend much time with prior to the event. They truly are great players and it was exciting to watch some fantastic golf being played.

I owe a huge thank you to all of our members for allowing us to host this event. I hope it was not an inconvenience to any of you. A special thanks to all of the Cordillera Women’s Golf Association memberswho volunteered their time on both days to follow the tournament and incorporate live scoring, a unique feature for those trying to follow the match.Many of you who came out ot watche the matches commented on how exciting they were. My heartfelt thanks to everyone for allowing me the time and opportunity to be a part of something that was great for the game of golf and helped showcase The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch!

Joe Black presenting the Joe Blac k Trophy to Marc Dewall, Team Captain STPGA

26 | january/february 2012

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DINING

28 | january/february 2012

FOR YOUR PLEASURE Chocolate boosts serotonin, our brain’s antidepressant, along with stimulating the secretion of endorphins. The natural chemical compound, Phenylethylamine (PEA),releases mood-elevating and pleasure-inducing endorphins in your brain and is released when people are falling in love. It is no small wonder that we consume so much chocolate and we shower each other with chocolate at different holidays and celebrations.

Perhaps this helps to explain why chocolate and Valentine’s Day are so closely linked!

WINE AND CHOCOLATE ARE NATURAL COMPANIONS Both wine and chocolate blend complex flavors and notes exhibiting similar components and nuances. Wine pairings follow the same kind of process as a wine or chocolate tasting, except that you taste each together. Flavors are released in stages. You will notice the fruity, nutty, spicy and/or woody notes. Let’s examine each….

Chocolate has amazing complexities and levels of flavor. You will find unique attributes for every chocolate you taste.

Every chocolate has distinct flavor notes, textures and finishes; it can be said that each chocolate has its own personality.

Like fine wine, each represents unique blends, percentages of cocoa, country of origin, terroir, roasting, timing and drying processes. The taste of the cocoa bean, like a wine varietal, depends on the soil, growing conditions and type of plant from a particular place. Harvesting and fermentation also affect flavor.

MATCHING FLAVOR NUANCES When pairing wines with chocolate, your best bet is to match lighter, more elegant flavored chocolates with lighter-bodied wines; likewise, the stronger the chocolate, the more full-bodied the wine should be. For example, a bittersweet chocolate tends to pair well with an intense, in-your-face California Zinfandel or even a tannin-driven Cabernet Sauvignon.

The darker the chocolate the more tannins it will display. However when you pair this darker chocolate up with a wine that has stout tannins, the chocolate will often overshadow or cancel out the wine’s tannins on the palate and allow more fruit to show through. Similar to “formal” wine tasting, start with a more subtle white chocolate and end on a dark or bittersweet chocolate.

SPECIAL NOTE: While the healthy aspects of dark chocolate are packed with antioxidants with all the benefits that dark veggies give you, beware, NOT ALL chocolates are created equal.

To obtain all the benefits that chocolate has to offer, we need the right kind – at least 70% cold pressed cocoa made with unprocessed, un-alkalized cacao and natural unprocessed sweeteners (we want the benefits – not the fat and calories)!

Forget about milk chocolate and never, ever eat white chocolate as it is actually not even chocolate, it is just butter with sugars and artificial flavors.

PORTS True Port wine comes only from the Douro Valley in Portugal. Port wine is typically richer, sweeter, heavier and possesses a higher alcohol content than most other wines. This is caused by the addition of distilled grape spirits (similar to brandy) to fortify the wine and halt fermentation before all the sugar is converted to alcohol and results in a wine that is usually either 19.5% or 20% alcohol.

Port is commonly served after meals as a dessert wine, often with cheese; commonly stilton. White and tawny ports are often served as an aperitif.

While we spoke of the mood elevating effects of the chocolate and the health benefits of wine, there are no similar reasons to consume port other than to simply enjoy it! Additionally, leftover Port wine is fabulous in sauces and is especially handy in perking up culinary creations. So Bon Appétit!

UPCOMING EVENTS

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FOR YOUR HEALTH • Researchers have found that eating chocolate causes the brain to release endorphins that make us feel happy and relaxed.

• Dark chocolate contains a large number of antioxidants (nearly 8 times the amount in strawberries!)

• Some studies have found increased health benefits for red wine over white wine. Red wine contains more polyphenols than white wine, offering significant antioxidant protection against cardiovascular disease and various forms of cancer.

• Resveratrol, the most powerful polyphenol, neutralizes free radicals that intend to wreak havoc on critical cellular functions.

Of special note, Pinot Noir contains several times the amount of other red wines such as Syrah or Merlot, which already contain about 10 times the amount of resveratrol as white wines.

E TH

With New Year’s health resolutions high on everyone’s list and Valentine’s Day just around the corner, there is no better time to explore both the pleasure and health benefits of ports, wines and chocolates.

Let’s explore first the “healthy” aspect of both wine and chocolate followed by the “pleasure” of tasting and pairing this dynamic duo together!

January 19 Third Thursday “Ports, Wines & Chocolates” Menu Spinach and Arugula Salad with goat cheese, toasted pecans and port shallot vinaigrette Traditional Chicken Mole and Fresh Corn Griddle Cake Fresh Fruit and Chocolate Fondue Selections of Ruby Port, Vintage Ports, Tawney Ports, Zinfandels, Chocolate Wine & Chocolate Martinis January 25 Cellar Club Members Only Appreciation Tasting February 16 Third Thursday “Wines from Down Under with Australian & New Zealand” March 1 David Arthur and Ryan Hill Winemaker Dinner

DINING

CHEF’S Secrets

Serve up a gourmet meal in your kitchen, straight from ours. We get Cordillera Ranch’s Executive Chef Dwight Webb to open up about two of The Club’s most sought after dishes. You can create these Tex-Mex meals at home as Chef takes you though the process step-by-step.

E TH

Four-Time Winner of the Great Chef’s Chili Confrontation, Dallas,TX

Yield: 1.5 Gallons, about 12 Servings Tomatillos, peeled and rinsed Roasted Green Chiles, diced

1.5 lbs.

10 oz.

BS U CL

Chef Dwight’s Green Chili Fresh Corn Tamales

Yield: 24-3oz Tamales; 12 Servings Dry Corn Husks Water

24 each 2 gallons

Place the tomatillos in a single layer on a baking sheet and spray lightly with Pam or other cooking spray. Place in a 400 F oven and roast until lightly browned and soft, about 30 minutes. Let cool slightly. Transfer the roasted tomatillos to a blender. Add the diced green chiles and puree the mixture until smooth. Reserve.

In a large pot, bring the water to a rolling boil, remove from heat. Add the corn husks to the water and use stacks of saucers or small plates to weigh the husks down so they stay submerged. Reserve for later use

Ground Pork Onion, medium dice Garlic, minced Olive Oil

Cut the corn kernels off the ears of corn and combine in sauce pot along with the whole milk. Bring to a simmer for 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove 1 cup of corn kernels. Place the remaining corn/milk mixture in a blender and blend until smooth. Season this mixture aggressively with salt, fresh-ground black pepper, and sugar.

2.5 lbs.

3 each 4 cloves 3 tblsp.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil and add the pork, onion and garlic. Adjust the heat to make it possible to cook the ingredients without browning them. Cook until the onions are clear and soft, and the pork is broken up. There will also be some water that gets released from the pork and onions that must be cooked away, so that only oil remains in the bottom. You’ll know you’ve achieved this by the sizzling sound the oil begins to make as the water evaporates.

Flour

.5 Cup

Add to mixture in the pot and stir well to incorporate all of the flour. What is happening here is the forming of a roux.

Pureed Tomatillos/Green Chiles Reserved, from step #1 Roasted Green Chiles, diced 30 oz.

Chicken Stock 1 qt.

Ground Cumin 1.5 tsp.

Dried Oregano 1.5 tsp.

Add all of this to the pot. It’s important to stir the mixture until it comes to a simmer or it will stick and burn.

Once a simmer is achieved, let it go for an hour, stirring occasionally. At the end of an hour, season to taste with salt and fresh-ground black –pepper, and a little sugar.

Serve immediately,or chill and reheat for later use.

When serving, ladle the chili into hot bowls. Garnish with grated Cheddar, sour cream, and fried flour tortilla strips.

Note from Chef: This chili is traditionally made with ground pork, but any protein, including turkey, beef, or venison, can be substituted.

Corn Kernels, raw Cut from 6 ears of fresh corn Whole Milk 1 qt.

Masa Harina

1 lb.

Place the dry masa harina in a mixing bowl and pour blended corn/milk mixture over. Mix well to form the first step of the masa. Chill down this mixture.

Whole Butter Baking Powder

.5 lb.

1 tblsp.

Using a Kitchen-Aid mixer or similar appliance with a paddle attachment, whip the butter and baking powder until light and fluffy. With mixer running on high speed, add the masa dough to the whipped butter in 2 oz increments, allowing the mixture to incorporate between additions.

Reserved Corn Kernels Grated Cheddar Cheese

1 Cup 1 Cup

Turn mixer on to low speed and fold in the reserved corn kernels and cheese. This is now your finished masa dough.

Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to divide the dough into 24 equal portions. Wrap and fold each dough portion in the softened corn husks. Steam the tamales for one hour.

These tamales form the perfect marriage with Chef’s Green Chili. Unwrap them on a warm plate and ladle the chili over the top. Garnish the tamales with fresh pico de gallo, fried flour tortilla strips, and sour cream, if desired.

They can be made ahead and re-heated for later use, but are always better-light and fluffy-straight out of the steamer.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 31

TEXAS INVESTORS TITLE

Performance is ourPriority Commercial, Ranch and Residential Title Transactions

Steve Vallone

Becky Edmiston

steve@texasinvestorstitle.com

becky@texasinvestorstitle.com

President

Escrow Officer

101 S. Main Street, Ste C Boerne, TX 78006 p. (830) 816-5888 f. (830) 816-5889

Cordillera

S

RAN

H E N E Turkey Tr Todd B ot Men’s Ove r 40 W urgess inner

er 40 men’s Ov o W t ro T Turkey ee anne Fraz z o R r e n Win

Turkey Trot Women ’s Under 40 Winner Jamie Burg ess

Upload your own photos to www.facebook.com/cordillera.ranch for a chance to be featured in next issue’s Ranch Scene

34 | january/february 2012

Photos by Tristyn Taylor

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Holly Baldwin & Kids At Trunk Or Treat

Bernie & Andre w Tosdevin At Trunk Or Treat

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CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 35

COVER FEATURE

A R T I S T

TELEVISION BROADCAST GURU

AND ALL-AROUND GOOD GUY

P H IL B y

B e t h a n y

LANE H e i n e s h

Photography By West Vita

In this life, we are sometimes afforded the rare occasion to cross paths with a genuinely good person. Even less frequently, we are given the opportunity to sit down and talk with one, eager for the chance to take a peek inside his or her universe and understand what makes them tick. Because people of excellence naturally radiate good energy, they are the kind of people you want to be around, the kind you unexplainably gravitate towards and enjoy the company of. Phil Lane is such a person.

It may be his personal philosophies, professional leadership style or dedication to family that sets Phil apart from the rest. Perhaps it’s his unbridled passion for creating beautiful art and collecting artifacts. Or maybe, just maybe, he is the personification of what sadly seems to be a dying breed –the quintessential Southern gentleman. All the same, Phil is a man of many accomplishments and noteworthy successes, but more than anything, he’s the kind of guy you’d like to have over for dinner and a glass of wine.

Even though Phil has only been in Texas a short while, the long-time South Carolina resident says he already feels right at home. Phil, wife Beth and their 15-yearold son Christopher made the trek from the Palmetto State at the beginning of August when Phil was brought on board as the new general manager and vice president of KSAT-12 in San Antonio. The Lanes moved into their Cordillera home in October and have been busy getting accustomed to all the things that come with embracing a new life.

Phil jokes that while he and Beth are still unpacking boxes, he has already been officially initiated as Texas Hill Country resident. “I hit my first deer a couple of weeks ago. From what I am told, this is a common occurrence around here!”

According to Phil, the Hill Country is not very different than the area where the Lanes are from. “I see the same values, the same caring people and the same cultural and physical landscapes,” Phil said. “This is still the South and while my accent might be a little different, I’m from the South and I enjoy Southern living.”

When asked how they landed in Cordillera, Beth explained, “We got to San Antonio and when I went house hunting,

I just kept driving west on I-10. This area reminded me so much of the GreenvilleSpartanburg area in South Carolina, which is where we’re from, I knew we had found our new home. We are the second owners of this house, but it is perfect for us. We had a pool put in and did some landscaping and we just love it.”

Phil agreed, “We just said, let’s get out of the suburbs and do something different for a change. The Texas Hill Country reminds us so much of the foothills in South Carolina. I like the idea that we are close to a metropolitan city, but far enough away to enjoy life in the country. I don’t mind the commute into San Antonio when I have this to come home to.”

In addition to the many happy years the Lanes spent in South Carolina, Phil’s job has taken them all over the southern part of the United States in years past – Florida, Georgia, Virginia, North Carolina and all places in between. Despite his love of travel, however, Phil says he has found the place where he and Beth will ultimately settle. “I definitely plan to retire here,” he said.

Since his meager beginnings more than 20 years ago as a sales associate with ABC, Phil has managed to make quite a name for himself. After more than 18 years with the same company, Phil decided to switch companies and is now what many call KSAT-12’s new “top dog,” replacing longtime KSAT-12 General Manager Jim Joslyn. Phil says he is particularly fond of KSAT-12 because they are a wellestablished TV station that dominates the market with their news coverage.

As the new GM, Phil currently oversees more than 145 staff members, a position he says he enjoys tremendously. “I just enjoy people. I like to be around them,

talk to them and find out what they are all about. I believe a work environment should have a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, one that encourages people to be their best simply because they love their job. I am a firm believer that happy people are productive people.”

Even though he is a motivated career man, it’s not work that drives Phil; it’s family. “Family is more important than everything else,” he said. “Work doesn’t come first –family does. I make sure and tell that to my team at KSAT. When things are not okay at home, it’s human nature to bring that junk to work.

The home is supposed to be a place of sanctuary and when it isn’t, it can negatively affect every other area of life.

If something is wrong on the home front, I encourage people to take time off to get everything back in balance.”

Phil and Beth, an interior designer, have been married more than twenty-one years, adopting Christopher after seven years of wedded bliss. “Our son spent the first part of his life in a children’s shelter,” Phil said of Christopher, who became part of the Lane family around the age of two. “The process of adopting Christopher opened our eyes to the plight of so many children in the U.S. and we have never been the same since. There are so many kids out

[

there trapped in wonderful and caring children’s shelters, but yet have never lived in a home.”

Although Phil hasn’t yet had the chance to pursue his favorite philanthropies since arriving in the Hill Country, it’s definitely on his agenda when things settle down a bit.

Phil takes pleasure by engaging in charity work and is enthusiastic about getting out in the community to see where he can make a difference. In addition to being of service to the Chamber of Commerce and United Way, Phil delights in being of service at children’s homes.

“Beth and I are doing what we can to make sure Christopher grows up to be happy and have a good life. We want him to know he can accomplish anything he puts his mind to,” Phil said. “To have the chance to make a difference in the life of a kid, well –it doesn’t get much better than that. It’s tough to think about how many kids grow up without a family. It’s just awful” Christopher is currently attending Winston School in San Antonio, a private school that provides personalized, college preparatory education for students who have high learning potential. “I like my school,” said Chris, a junior varsity

basketball player. “So far all the kids have been really nice and friendly to me.”

Phil and Christopher seem to have a very special father-son bond, the kind of closeness every guy wants from his dad.

The two love fly-fishing together and hitting the occasional round of golf.

“We’re more into fly-fishing than anything else. It gives us the chance to be guys and just talk about stuff. That’s pretty evident when you take a look around our house,” Phil joked, speaking of the dazzling artwork that decks the halls of the Lane house, chronicling his fishing trips with Christopher.

Because Beth is a fabulous interior designer, her unique flair has really turned their house into something spectacular. Think bold animal prints and furniture of all textures with wildly shaped, and incredibly comfortable, high back chairs to sit in. To say the least, their great room is a valiant expression of positive energy with vivid color splashed all over the walls as proof positive a family of creatives lives there.

]

I like the idea that we are close to a metropolitan city, but far enough away to enjoy life in the country.

The first thing anyone would notice upon entering the Lanes’ dream home is the striking pictorials that don the walls –sunflowers, fish, landscapes, fish. Explaining the significance of the paintings, Phil explains, “We fish on a catch and release program so I started making Christopher paintings of the fish we would catch. We would take a picture before we let it go and then I would come home and paint it. I really enjoy painting as a hobby. It is a true stress release after a hectic day.”

Phil’s love of acrylic and pastel paint is evident in every brushstroke of his work.

A proud Furman University graduate, Phil holds a Bachelor’s in History with a Minor in Fine Arts. It was in college, macho football player though he was, where he discovered his seemingly innate artistic abilities. “After taking art classes to bring up my grades, I found that I was good at making art and I really enjoyed it. I even received an art scholarship.”

Phil jokes that there must be some kind of artists’ gene passed down.“Creativity really runs in my family so it’s no surprise I would love painting.”

Phil would one day like to put his work in a gallery. “Over the years, I have auctioned pieces at Trout Unlimited charity events. It’s cool to think my work is hanging in someone’s living room.”

Another of Phil’s hobbies is collecting ancient artifacts. He proudly displays

Native American pieces in a case in the front of the house. Arrowheads and other crudely manmade tools are among the items he has found. Phil is especially proud of one artifact in particular –a soapstone bowl that probably dates back more than 3,000 years, one that early Americans used to boil water in.

Phil says he, Beth and Christopher feel blessed to be a part of the Cordillera family living in the gorgeous Texas Hill Country. “In the months to come, we look forward to meeting our neighbors and venturing into town more. Beth and I plan to get involved in the Episcopal church in Boerne and other nonprofits in the area.”

Ever the optimist, Phil is looking expectantly to the New Year. “I think 2012 is going to be a great year for us all.”

Besides kayaking in the summer and getting away to their second home – an 1861 log cabin in Tryon, North Carolina –Phil says the family is just looking forward to taking advantage of all the fine services Cordillera has to offer and settling into their new lives in the Lone Star State.

Phil signs off by saying, “You only get one life. Let’s make it a fun adventure; experience it and enjoy it!”

Specializing in fine instruments, accessories, and instruction.

Offering group or private lessons for all ages.

Guitar | Flute | Harp | Violin Piano | Mandolin | and More

109 Oak Park Dr. | Boerne, Texas 78006

830.331.9840

Call today to reserve your lesson space.

www.heartshomeacoustics.com

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 43

STAFF PROFILE

STEPHANIE MONSANTO MARKETING & REAL ESTATE SALES COORDINATOR, Cordillera Ranch Realty smonsanto@cordilleraranch.com 830.336.3570

NAME Stephanie Monsanto HOMETOWN St. Thomas, USVI FAMILY Dad, Matt, and two older sisters, Natalie and Morgan WHY ST. THOMAS? Both of my parents were born and raised in the Caribbean and wanted my sisters and I to experience the same carefree childhood away from the big city mentality of LA where I was born.

FUNNY THINGS ABOUT LIVING IN ST. THOMAS Tourists would ask us the funniest questions! For example, “How does this island float?” or “Do the kids really go to school here?” or “Do people actually work here?”

COOLEST PLACE IN THE CARIBBEAN The Baths in Virgin Gorda and the Willy T in Norman Island [a barge that’s been converted into a floating restaurant].

FAVORITE THING TO DO Travel, no question.

FAVORITE PLACE YOU’VE VISITED Monsanto, Portugal – one of the most amazing places I have ever seen, and the origin of my family.

IF YOU COULD GO ONE PLACE RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD IT BE? The Maldives.

44 | January/february 2012

EDUCATION HISTORY Went to Ronald Reagan HS in San Antonio and graduated from UTSA in May 2011 with a degree in Communications and a minor in International Relations.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH CORDILLERA RANCH? I started working at the Clubs of Cordillera Ranch in September 2007 and moved to Cordillera Ranch Realty in October 2011 DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE My primary role is to coordinate the traditional and virtual marketing efforts for our fast-growing re-sale realty operations. I’m constantly researching ways to better market

our re-sale properties to get customers on property so our sales reps can work their magic.

FAVORITE MOVIE Split between The Count of Monte Cristo and Captain Ron, but Brides Maids is a recent addition…

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK WITH TRACY HARRIS? Indescribable.

WHAT IS THE FUNNIEST THING HE HAS SAID SO FAR? “I’m so tired of being the smartest one; my mother always said it was going to be a burden, and it has been.”…the rest are not appropriate for print.

Boerne’s Newest Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

SHORT TERM • LONG TERM • RESPITE • HOSPICE Cibolo Creek provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational and speech therapy.

Rehab services are provided in a beautiful, spacious 2,000+ square foot rehab gym, with state of the art rehab equipment and an experienced in-house rehab team to meet the goals and needs of our residents.

Cibolo Creek is a provider for Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and private pay residents.

As a major referral source for San Antonio hospitals Cibolo Creek is well connected with Hospitals/Case Managers/Discharge Planners, allowing for a smooth transition for residents.

1440 River Road • Boerne, TX 78006 • 830-816-5095 • cibolocreekhealth.org

Stability • Experience • Financial Strength

Philip Turturro

Director of Business Development Clubs Of Cordillera Ranch Member 210-490-1313 Philip.Turturro@fnf.com

18618 Tuscany Stone, Ste. 240 San Antonio, TX 78258 Office: 210-490-1313 www.fidelitysa.com

Brian Baize

President- San Antonio Division Clubs Of Cordillera Ranch Member 210-601-3073 Brian.Baize@fnf.com

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 45

ted high the talen te la eir tu ra cong nts in th hance to ir accomplishme c ve put a is h th e e n the se thre to tak e o e , k th k li t c a uld a ld J th u h wo and ation they s o ra Ranch low, Julia, Jayci nd dedic omething that a e rk th o Cordille e w p b of is s pu tudents amount ent. Kee deavors school s ers. The tar Stud icular en re -S rr a u C c f l -c o a o l o tr goa high sch cademic and ex at is the ir a r, and th fo n io into the it e recogn all receiv rk! great wo

ia l u J

JULIA COOK

Congrats to Julia Cook for being named to the USA Swimming 2010-2011 Scholastic All-American Team as a sophomore!

Julia was named to the team not once but three times and she is 1 of 135 women this year to be a three-time scholastic all American. She accomplished this in the 200-meter freestyle, 100-meter backstroke, and 200-meter backstroke. And she’s clearly doing more than just swimming because she did all of this with a 4.0 grade point average!

As a sophomore at Boerne High, she was named to 1st team All-State in the 200-meter freestyle and 100-meter backstroke.

What’s next: Julia’s goal is to make the swim team for a Division I college team – it appears she’s on a good path. Good luck Julia!

She is currently on the Boerne High swim team and AAAA Swimming in San Antonio.

Ja

yci

JAYCI BLAKE

Jayci Blake is currently ranked #1 in her senior class at Boerne High School. She is the president of Student Council and is involved in other clubs such as National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. Jayci enjoys acting in the school plays and musicals, and was The Wicked Witch of the West in last year’s production of The Wizard of Oz. She also likes cheering on the Greyhounds basketball teams. Jayci will be attending Texas A&M University next fall to study chemical engineering.

Jayci loves living in Boerne and explains, “Boerne is a wonderful town to grow up in! I love my high school, there’s always something going on and living in Cordillera Ranch has been amazing. I love being able to talk my dogs on a walk on the nature trail, or kayak down the Guadalupe River, or play 9 holes with my dad.” Congratulations, Jayci!

JACK MONDAY

Rose Monday definitely passed the baton to her son Jack Monday in the area of Cross Country running. Jack, a junior at Boerne Champion High School, is a part of the Champion team that won its 3rd State Cross Country Championship in the past four years in November 2011. Congrats to Jack, the team and Coach Dave Fulkerson who had this to say, “Of course you never know if your plans are going to succeed, but our guys were just the toughest guys on the planet.” Way to go Jack & Boerne Champion Cross Country!

46 | january/february 2012

Jack

Enhance Your Life at the Lodge

Assisted Living & Independent Living The Lodge is a unique, licensed, residential community for seniors who desire assistance with daily living tasks. It is locally owned and operated since 1996. At The Lodge personalized assistance and individualized attention are provided in a small, homelike environment that is not available in traditional retirement communities, large apartment-like assisted living facilities or nursing homes.

With the small home setting and low staff-to resident ratio, the residents experience a warm and loving environment. Personal care is provided by a caring and compassionate staff that is available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

The Lodge residents enjoy the luxurious interior of the spacious 10,000 square-foot Spanish style home. The home is surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of our 14-acre site. The property is graced with majestic trees, a natural spring with running stream and bubbling fountain in the courtyard. The Lodge is the comfort of home inside and out.

The Lodge offers individualized programs designed to meet your specific needs. Residents have choices from the very basic of services to the more specialized services that meet the needs of more complex problems, illnesses or recuperation.

www.thelodgeatleonsprings.com 2 4 1 37 B oern e Sta ge Ro a d

Excellent Home Cooked Meals & Special Diets 24-Hour Awake Staff Medication Assistance & Healthcare Management Laundry Services, Personal Clothing & Linens Housekeeping Services Assistance with Bathing, Grooming Ambulation, Dressing & Other Services Activities, Exercise, Socialization & Entertainers Respite Care Medication Monitoring Memory Impaired Wing

NEW SERVICE Personal Assistance Services

Allow us to assist your loved one in their own home. At times, all that is required is help with daily chores. Our kind and thoughtful caregivers can provide the following:

Joyful Companionship Hygiene Assistance Memory Impaired Care Meal Preparation Light Housekeeping Errands & Shopping Medication Reminders Personal Assistance Services may be just what is needed to maintain your independence and live at home.

Affordable Hourly Rate Morning, Midday & Evening Live-in, Live-out & Overnight Respite for Family Caregivers

Sa n Ant o nio , T X 78255

210.698.9365

210 . 4 1 0 . 3 8 6 4

Fashion

Papillon Black Dress $78 Necklace / Earring Set $48 Clutch Wallet $18 Lillians of Boerne, lilliansshoppe.com

MOMS

ON THE GO Being a mom is a full-time job and while the rewards are endless, the sacrifices that come with the position are many. Finding enough time in the day to tackle the challenges that come with raising a family can be exhausting.

All too often, moms become overwhelmed with responsibility and leave little time to take care of their own needs and wants. Fashion and frills are usually the first to take a backseat to the duties of being a mom and before you know it, a baseball hat, sweats and sneakers have become the daily uniform.

After all, who has time to shop for new digs when you’ve got a teenager that needs to be chauffeured all over town!?

REALITY CHECK: As every woman knows, when we look good, we feel good! While the role of mom may be the most important part of your life, making yourself a priority should also be important.

Keeping up appearances doesn’t have to be difficult, expensive or time-consuming, but it should be on the agenda.

You don’t have to travel far and you certainly don’t have to spend big to be a hip, Hill Country gal up on the latest fashions. Shopping locally is fun and convenient and Boerne is home to some of the best clothing boutiques and designers in the Texas Hill Country. Take some much needed and well-deserved time for yourself to check out these local fashions. Then, grab your girlfriends and head out for a day of Mommy Madness – hit the stores and shop till you drop!

Top by Quicksilver $48 Errings $22 Bracelets $40 Splash, rhondajdesigns.com

Uncle Frank Dress $108 Olg Gringo Boots $525 Brown Tights $19 Daisy Pearl, daisypearlboutique.com

M-Rona Corsit Cami $24 Kariss Long Cardigan $28 D9 Jeans $58 Necklace / Earring Set $28 Watch $18 Mudpie Wrap Bracelet $18 Gold Bangles $12 Handbag $40 Lillians of Boerne, lilliansshoppe.com

Isle Ruffle Dress $98.00 Celeste, shoppingceleste.com

Glima Tie Dye Cotton Tunic $64.00 Chan-Luu Charm Necklace $138.00 Jag Skinny Ankle Pants $76.00 TOMS Natural Burlap Shoes $58.00 Celeste, shoppingceleste.com

Tolani Tunic $139 Old Gringo Boots $525 Black Jeggings $24 Turquoise Belt by Double D Ranchwear $169 Daisy Pearl, daisypearlboutique.com

Off-the-shoulder Tunic by Classique $68 Faux leather embossed belt $16 Leggings $12 The Shoppe, rhondajdesigns.com

South Main, Suite 120 Boerne, Texas 78006 830.331.9596

700 East Sonterra Boulevard, Suite 303 San Antonio, Texas 78258 210.495.9100

Wedding Ready?

Moon Mippy is your one stop shop for invitations, stationery and gifts.

A WORLD OF DELIGHTFUL CHOICES 2 1 0

S O U T H ( 8 3 0 )

M A I N S T R E E T | B O E R N E , T E X A S 7 8 0 0 6 3 3 1 - 9 3 5 5 | B O E R N E E P I C U R E . C O M

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 57

We are pleased to announce the opening of our new location to better serve you. We thank you for your preference and we hope to continue providing you the quality of products and excellence in service you deserve.

Come visit our new store in the Boerne City Center,

NOW OPEN! 194 South Main Street, Suite 100 Boerne, texas 78006

(830) 331-9272

www.LasFinezas.com

58 | January/february 2012

to: r e v i l e D

eet, ain Str M h t u 194 So Suite 10s078006 e, Texa Boern

accentric offers an eclectic mix of furniture, home accessories, and gifts to fit most budgets. Offered is a large assortment of candles, table-top items, mirrors, clocks and small gift items appropriate for all occasions. This locally-owned, independent business provides the level of individual attention and customer service one would expect from a high-end, big-city boutique. accentric offers design services for home or office from color selection to custom furniture and floral arrangements.

(830) 249-9879 305 South Main Street Boerne, Texas 78006

accentricDecor.com

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 59

The Hill Country is blessed with some of the most talented artists in Texas and Boerne has some of its own. Specializing in every medium, the Hill Country artists create pieces that are shown in galleries throughout the World. One of our newest Fine Art Galleries, Texas Treasures Fine Art. While one of the newer art galleries, it has fast become one of the area’s best known, representing sculptors and painters from all over the world specializing in landscape, figurative, impressionistic, still life, Southwest Native American and Western art. Owned by Johny Rosa, Texas Treasures has also formed a wonderful relationship with the Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. Every 3rd Thursday of the month for 2012, the Clubs of Cordillera Ranch and Texas Treasures fine art will be putting on an Art & Wine Stroll that features live music, wine tasting, incredible food and live demonstrations by featured artist.

Johny stated, “That from the very first show at Cordillera Ranch that it’s a perfect venue for art. The facilities are breathtaking and the staff is accommodating and professional and with everyone’s combined effort the show is a wonderful event. The residents continue to show their appreciation and love for the arts and I will continue to showcase the very best art and artists for them to enjoy. And that appreciation extends to Texas Treasures Fine Art as well. Monty Becton, General Manager for the Clubs at Cordillera Ranch adds, “We‘ve been so pleased with the events that Johny and his team have put together. They’ve been top-notch, and our residents and guests have really enjoyed all the hard work they’ve put into coordinating these events.”

While the shows began in the later part of 2011, John will have a unique y has even bigger focus and highligh plans for 2012. Each t a wide range of me artwork that you wi show diums and artists. ll have an opportu Some of the artists nity to meet or vie and w in 2012 are: Bill Zaner - 82 ye ar old Iconic Texas Landscape painter Erik Christianson – a sculptor that is in the Library of Co ngress Tim Cox – Weste rn artist and Preside nt of Cowboy Artis ts of America Ed Natiya – Nava jo Sculptor Barry McCuan – “p

lein air” landscape

Lynne Windsor – En

painter from Santa

glish artist featured

Fe

on the cover of No vember issue of So uthwest Art Magazin Juan Dell Wade e – one of the first fem ale Texas Rangers, to sculptors in Santa Fe and an Honorar name just a few. y Member of the As the word of Te xas Treasures Fine Art has grown, so Clubs of Cordillera has the 3rd Thursd Ranch. Shows runs ay Art & Wine Stro from 6pm – 9pm. ll at the

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BS U CL

FITNESS

FIT FOR THE NEW YEAR

By Lindsey Minarcik, Fitness Director

A new year has arrived bringing about new goals, aspirations, and desired self improvement. The Spa and Athletic Club of Cordillera Ranch offers amenities that can assist in fulfilling these desires. In 2012, we are now offering expanded massage treatments, a professional grade pedicure chair, a new esthetician and our very own Pilates Studio! We are very excited for the new offerings and encourage everyone to give it a try; you will then be well on your way to those New Year resolutions!

Karen Walton, the Club’s massage therapist, is an extremely talented therapist skilled in many forms of massage,

62 | January/february 2012

including her newest offerings: full body wraps, facials, golf massage and a sinus soothing treatment.

Karen offers massages Tuesdays – Sundays, during normal Club operating hours, including holidays. Simply contact her directly at 210.363.6194 to set up an appointment or to discuss how her services may be able to help your unique needs.

Another amenity offered at the Club’s Spa is nail treatments. Contact Tammy Stone and enjoy an array of services from our new spa pedicures to Shellac nail polish, a revolutionary zero dry time, mirror finish polish that lasts up to fourteen days! Tammy is available by appointment

Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays by calling or texting 210.833.0083.

Looking and feeling healthy is a priority that all of us should aspire to, however stresses of daily life can often pay a toll on our skin and over all look. In 2012, good skin care and maintenance is a great goal to focus on. In an effort to create a one stop shop where all your health and beauty needs can be met, the Club welcomes Esthetician Lois Garber.

Lois brings 20 years of experience in skin care to Cordillera Ranch with access to Bioelements Professional Skin Care Line. All of Lois’ facials feature a de-stressing eye treatment, hydrating hand wrap,

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you to the wonderful world of Pilates.

Below are a few reminders and tips when interested in services: • All services are available by appointment only and can be booked by calling the professionals listed above or at cordilleraranch.com. If you are interested in hosting a party or a group gathering, Lindsey Minarcik can assist with the coordinating by calling 830.336.9000 ext 241 or by email at lminarcik@cordilleraranch.com.

• We encourage members to bring friends and family in for any and all spa services.

• If you need to cancel an appointment, please notify the Service Provider directly with 24 hours notice.

• Day Use Guest Lockers are located in the Women’s Locker Room and are available by visiting the Reception Desk in the Main Clubhouse to obtain a key.

• Fitness Lockers are available to rent in the Fitness Center for $8 a month by contacting Lindsey Minarcik at 830.336.9000 ext 241 or lminarcik@cordilleraranch.com.

The New Year brings about a great time to pick up some new habits and continue the ones you’ve already developed, the Spa and Athletic Club help you on your way to a healthier, happier you!

BS U CL

scalp massage, customized aromatherapy, nourishing lip treatment and microdermabrasion and micro-current as needed.

Lois is available by appointment by calling 210-415-1771, simply contact her directly with any questions you may have, to set up an appointment, or to purchase Bioelements Skin Care products.

The Clubs is proud to introduce our new Pilates Studio hosted by Martha Miehe-Rendard, a certified Pilates teacher and licensed massage therapist.

Pilates, a system of exercises that balance your body by increasing your core strength, flexibility, coordination and muscle tone is the perfect way to kickstart 2012. Pilates goes hand in hand with all sports, thus, many golfers and tennis players have benefited from the optimal range of motion achieved through this training method.

Martha will not only assist you with her knowledgeable Pilates instruction, she is also a licensed massage therapist which allows her to use therapeutic and sports massage techniques to complement and further encourage the benefits associated with Pilates work. By contacting Martha directly at 830.446.1140 or marthamiehe@hotmail.com she can introduce

New to our offering are full body wraps. All full body wraps begin with a salt glow or apricot scrub to entirely exfoliate the body, leaving fresh new skin to soak up the rejuvenating qualities of each different wrap. Following that you are covered in milk and honey, clay, herbal tonic or mud and wrapped up in warm thermal blankets allowing the pores in the skin to fully absorb the infusions to achieve the best, most long lasting results.

Be sure to visit www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com to view a comprehensive list of the services offered at the Clubs.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 63

DEVELOPER

YEAR IN REVIEW

First, I’d like to welcome the 51 new families that made Cordillera Ranch their new home in 2011 and the 49 new members that joined the club last year! As usual the year flew by too fast, and it’s hard to believe we are entering our 16th year as a community. After the slowdown from 2008-2010, it was nice to bounce back to such a positive year of real estate and membership sales and new home construction. Just driving around the 40 miles of roads in the neighborhood you can see for yourself the significant increase in construction activity from a year and two years ago. As of the time this went to print, there were 30 homes under construction (none of which are specs) in Cordillera Ranch and another 20 in design review and planning. That’s a pretty staggering figure and a great testament to the activity in the neighborhood. Based on the new lot sales activity in 2011, that number is only expected to climb in 2012. Through November 2011 overall lot sales volume was up 18% to $9.6MM (resales and developer lots) and average lot sales price was $266k, also an 18% increase from in 2010.

64 | january/february 2012

“IN TEXAS, WE ARE ALL IN THE ENERGY BUSINESS” What’s driving the activity? There is no doubt that all of San Antonio is benefitting from the enormous economic impact of the Eagle Ford Shale exploration and development- and it’s only just begun.

We’ve seen a noticeable uptick in traffic in the last 18 months from families relocating to the area in conjunction with the

Eagle Ford. Many of our sales in the last two years have been either directly or indirectly related to people associated with the energy industries. Whether it’s an engineer at a drilling firm, an executive at a refinery or pipeline company, or some other business professional who’s company does business with these oil and gas companies, we’re definitely feeling the positive impact of the Eagle Ford. There has also been some sales activity from people who owned ranches in the Eagle Ford Shale and with lease prices as high as $20k+/acre some of them are cashing out and moving to the Hill Country. A few of the energy companies whose employees or owners have bought property in Cordillera Ranch are EOG, Howard Energy Partners, Pioneer, SRX Group and Pioneer Natural Resources. After nearly 40 years in the real estate business in Texas, Cordillera Ranch Development President, David Hill, is emphatic in saying, “In Texas, whether you’re a lawyer, a carpenter, a jeweler, a real estate developer or just about any other trade, we’re really all in the energy busi-

ness, for better or worse.” Considering the national economic recession, the timing of this oil and gas find could not have been better for San Antonio.

Since Petrohawk drilled the first successful well in the Eagle Ford in 2008, the other major oil and gas exploration and servicing firms have surged to the region, including Anadarko, Apache, Atlas, EOG, Pioneer, Marathon Oil, Schlumberger, Halliburton, and XTO just to name a few.

These unprecedented new investments in the Eagle Ford and relocations to the San Antonio area are just the beginning according to many of the economists.

A UTSA study predicts the Eagle Ford will create 68,000 new jobs by 2020, of which an estimate 6,000 may be in San Antonio. This is about double the impact of the Toyota manufacturing plant in San Antonio. By all estimates, this new Spindletop covering 24 counties has real staying power. EOG CEO, Mark Papa, recently said, “I continue to believe EOG’s Eagle Ford position is the highest rate of return, large-scale hydrocarbon play in all of North America, onshore or offshore. I also continue to believe this is the largest oil company -- oil discovery net to any one company in the last 40 years in the U.S.” That’s a pretty staggering statement from an oil and gas veteran and head of a Fortune 500 company. With tens of billions of dollars of planned investment in this burgeoning energy play in the next few years, it sure appears that most of the industry heavyweights agree with him.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CORDILLERA RANCH?

In spite of the fact that Eagle Ford itself is located south of San Antonio, a significant amount of the energy companies have offices on the north and northwest sides of town Tesoro, EOG and Valero.

NuStar is expected to complete its new headquarters for nearly 1,000 employees in 2012 just north of the Rim on I-10 (1520 minutes from Cordillera Ranch). With all of this continuing job growth on the north side of San Antonio, we are planning two new sections of lots to be opened in 2012 (on top of the two sections that were delivered with successful sales in 2011).

One of the new planned sections for 2012 includes the addition of Phase 2 of the Di Lusso Villas, which will offer the first golf-frontage villa lots in Cordillera Ranch.

In addition, Phase 2 will offer at least one new villa floor plan customized to meet the unique terrain and views fronting hole #3. Additionally, in 2012 we plan to break ground on the first sections of lots across FM 3351. The beauty of the 2,300 acres of land across FM 3351 perfectly complements the areas developed to date and there are also some new features that will be incorporated. These new areas will include some stunning 1 to 2+ acre lots along a bluff overlooking Panther Creek and a planned additional property owners park and new trail system. Balancing out the 1 to 2 acre product will be another section of lots ranging from 2/3rd to

¾-acre estate lots with a land plan that is modeled after the “Cluster Land Planning” approach which minimizes the area of land the homeowner needs to maintain while preserving native landscapes in common areas around the enclave of lots.

The intent is to preserve the beautiful hill country vegetation in community areas so the homeowner does not have to. Stay tuned in the next issue of Cordillera Ranch Living for more details on these exciting new developments for 2012!

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 65

THE RULES OF BIDDING

By Robert Thornton, Owner, Great Homes L.P.

There are no “rules of bidding” of course – you’re the client, therefore you can choose how you’d like to engage suitors, but I’d like to take this opportunity to share some thoughts on the construction bidding process that may benefit you in your search for the right homebuilder.

The weakened economy has benefitted those desiring to build a new home in several ways.

Firstly, the abundance of builders from only 3-4 years ago has been thinned as the “wheat has been separated from the chaff” – that is, many builders haven’t survived the times. The wiser, more reputable builders have remained, and the risk of contracting with someone less qualified for the task has been diminished. Secondly, the competitive nature of the bidding process has been ignited, as opportunities are fewer, resulting in aggressive proposals and tightened margins. And thirdly, those builders who once had waiting lists may now be available on a moment’s notice, with reduced workloads leading to more concentration on fewer simultaneous jobs. But the bidding process is still a delicate one that isn’t to be taken lightly.

In times like these it’s only natural for consumers to take advantage of the competitive market and stretch their dollar to the limits. We compare prices, quality, warranty and service. We pit one vendor or shop against another, knowing that someone out there wants the sale worse than the next guy. But this approach may not always be best when it comes to building a custom home, as this purchase is significantly different than most.

Building a home may likely be one of the largest investments you make in your lifetime - financially and emotionally; it requires a year or two for planning and construction; it requires multiple years of follow through service; and it requires a mutual, trusting relationship – one that will demand much interaction for an extended period of time, before and after construction.

In simple terms there are two basic approaches: The Team Approach and the Competitive Bid Approach. The Team Approach consists of an owner, designer/architect, builder and other support members, i.e. engineering consultants, interior designers, and other specialists. These parties work together as a team from the onset towards the mutual goal of maximizing form, function, finances, creativity, and joy of building a new home. In contrast, the Competitive Bid Approach separates the builder and his or her support specialists from the initial processes of plan development. Once design and architecture is complete, multiple builders are identified, each being provided with a complete set of plans and

66 | january/february 2012

specifications and asked to prepare and submit a proposal by a predetermined deadline.

Favoring the Competitive Bid Approach over the Team Approach may lead to great frustration, and establishing a level playing field among bidders can be extremely difficult. Plans and specification documents, if well executed, can define angles, thicknesses, materials and allowances, but rarely are they so complete that all competing bidders actually interpret them the same. Each competing builder will introduce a host of subcontractors and vendors in the process of bid compilation, with each minor (or major) interpretation inconsistency increasing the difference among final proposals. To be sure, a grey area in the plans or specifications will oftentimes be manipulated by a bidding party to increase the chances of successful bid, rather than bidding per the ideal desire or intent of the owner. Another common mistake is made when comparing markedly different builders and respective proposals. Executive support and interaction, supervisory staff, total experience, interior design services, skill levels, capacity, warranty procedures, company goals and values differ tremendously from one builder to the next.

There is no right or wrong of course, but there is most likely a mix that best suits your personal style and temperament.

So if not competitive bids then what? My preference and recommendation is the Team Approach. Narrowing down the field of builder candidates can be tough, but I always recommend several things: a) stay local, b) identify Builders who are working (or have worked frequently) in the vicinity of your lot, c) conduct personal interviews, d) inspect a job(s) currently under construction, e) apply your own personal “gut check” and f) check references, check references, check references. Stay local because a local builder will likely subcontract with local subs, which increases accountability and the likelihood of improved performance by all. Identify builders who are building in the vicinity because they’ll spend more time supervising your job, and less time staring at their windshield in cross-county treks. Conduct personal interviews because it may reveal a characteristic, methodology or business practice that you admire. Inspect current jobs to see the cleanliness, fit and finish. And check references

because there’s nothing that compares to a well satisfied client. Check references of current clients, former clients, local contractors, bankers and businesspeople - don’t simply rely on hand-picked references, but do a little digging along the way.

Once you’ve done these things you’re ready to move forward with your first choice as if it’s “theirs to lose” – that is, if the builder invests his time, provides good counsel, treats with respect, makes a thorough presentation and puts his best foot forward then he will most likely earn the actual job of constructing your new home.

This will likely include a site meeting(s) at your lot, multiple design meetings with the designer or architect, Architectural Review Committee meetings, a mid-design estimate, the development of full specifications to accompany the completed plans, and a thorough and final proposal. One very significant yet intangible benefit of this approach is the opportunity to establish a mutual and trusting relationship well in advance, that is, prior to the execution of a construction contract.

With expanded relationships comes increased accountability, the opportunity to communicate, the ability to empathize and the hope for likeminded goals. The ultimate goal of which is an increased focus on value and satisfaction of investment. By this time the Builder has a vested interest, and if after months of team effort the proposal doesn’t line up with prior estimates or the relationship simply doesn’t feel right then it would be good and appropriate to seek a second opinion and/or alternate bids.

So ask me and I say build a relationship first, and then build the house. As a founding member of the Cordillera Ranch Preferred Builder Group I would be happy to visit in person about your needs and can be reached at office 830.249.3646 or robert@rsthornton. com. Some builders may request a fee or a contractual relationship to proceed with this Team Approach whereas others may not, but if so the terms may be negotiable – after all, it is a highly competitive market.

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CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 67

Native Texans James and Gwen Stewart found their way home to Cordillera Ranch after spending years traveling all over the United States. Their Authentic Custom Home is simple, yet elegant, allowing the Stewarts to enjoy an upscale lifestyle without the upkeep that comes along with a larger home. Striking masonry work, tranquil Hill Country views and a back porch that welcomes both relaxation and a good conversation all make for the perfect spot to spend a fruitful retirement.

James and Gwen Stewart love Cordillera Ranch so much, that they have built two homes here! After partnering with Authentic Custom Homes on their first Cordillera Ranch custom home several years ago, they were so impressed with Israel Peña and his team, that there was no doubt who would build their next home when the Stewarts decided to downsize.

“We didn’t even have to think about it,” Gwen says. “There wasn’t even a question about who we would get to design this house. We wanted a smaller space, something that would be less difficult to maintain. Our other house was considerably larger and had a beautiful swimming pool, but it was too much to keep up with and way too much house for just the two of us. When we began seriously considering making a move, we called Israel and he went to work.”

According to James, when the couple originally thought of building from the ground up, they had no idea where to begin. It was the first time in their lives they ever had a custom home built and it seemed like a mammoth undertaking.

Married 28 years, the Stewarts met at the University of Houston while pursuing a second round of education. Both native Texans, James and Gwen have lived all over the United States, often sustaining a bi-coastal relationship so each could pursue a career with Shell. For years, Gwen kept a place in Los Angeles while James resided in Houston. “We made it work. We traveled to see each other and talked on the phone, but we always looked forward to the day when we could build our dream home together in the Texas Hill Country,” said James, who was

a project engineer with the company for many years. Gwen managed Shell refineries. “He built ‘em, I ran ‘em,” Gwen laughed.

They are starting to settle into their new home after moving there in April and are once again living the good life at Cordillera Ranch.

When they decided to retire, the Stewarts first set their sights on Kerrville.

They passed through the Hill Country in search of somewhere to begin a new chapter in their lives and felt Boerne was a better fit. “When we drove through the gate of Cordillera Ranch, we knew this was the place for us. This area just has more of what we want,” the Stewarts agree. “It is close enough to drive into the city of San Antonio, yet we get the rustic feel of the wide open Texas countryside out here.”

In trying to decide how to choose a homebuilder, James said the couple just began driving around, looking at houses and took note of the builders who demonstrated the design they were seeking. The Stewarts wanted to go with a motif that best reflected the area’s Hill Country charm while still providing a functional home they could enjoy for the duration of their retirement years.

“We interviewed builders and just felt a real connection to Authentic Homes.

The deciding factor was that the particular style of house we were interested in just happened to be Israel’s forte. Gwen provided pictures of what we wanted. A few weeks later, we got a rendering from Authentic and they nailed it. They put together what we described with such ease and accuracy, it was amazing. The second time around, same thing.”

Adrianne Peña Carnes, Director of Operations at Authentic Homes, explains why Israel and his team are so effective in creating beautiful homes. “We can handle the entire process from start to finish. We are a full-service custom home builder who provides everything from decorating services to financing. We want to make the process as convenient for our clients as possible. Israel has been designing homes for more than 30 years, which is what distinguishes him from other builders.” He’s a Certified Green Professional through the National Association of Homebuilders in Washington, D.C. and Authentic has been a Preferred Builder in Cordillera Ranch for more than 10 years. Israel’s reputation speaks for itself and it is important to us to deliver what our clients want and need in their new home.”

Admittedly, the Stewarts entered their first home building process with apprehension. They visited the home site almost daily, feeling as if they had to monitor progress, but they quickly realized how responsive Peña was. “We came to rely on his team’s ability to manage the work and soon learned to trust the process. When we built this house, we already knew in the end we were going to have a good finished product and didn’t feel the need to check up on them. It was a breeze.”

Gwen says two home features were especially important to her when she and James built their second home in Cordillera Ranch. “I wanted a one-story with a nice great room at the center of the home.” James wanted a place where he could tinker with a hobby of his – reloading shotgun shells. He is a skilled

His & Hers: When James & Gwen were building their home, they each had one priority: She wanted a single story with a nice great room at the center of the home and he wanted a place where he could tinker with his shotgun shells.

Authentic created this backyard water feature with impeccable stonework to seemlessly transition to the native hill country landscape

“They passed through the Hill Country in search of somewhere to begin a new chapter in their lives and felt Boerne was a better fit.”

There was only one tree that had to be removed to build our house. That says a lot about Authentic.

sporting clay marksman. “It’s like golf with a shotgun. I love it,” he says.

The Stewarts chose a simple design for their new home –a floor plan that placed all the rooms of the house in a straight line with the master bedroom on one end and the den and guest bedrooms on the other. Upon entering the driveway, the couple’s 3,600 sq. ft. home looks like quite the spread. “It not only looks like more house than it is, it lives a lot bigger too,” says James.

This three bedroom, three-and-a-half bath Texas Hill Country home has all the luxury amenities the Stewarts have come to expect from Authentic, while staying aligned with the Stewarts’ vision for a smaller home that is easier to maintain.

The master bedroom is modestly decorated with colorful artwork and simple, but elegant décor. The enormous master bath at the far end of the bedroom is to die for. Complete with spa-style tub and a huge shower area, hand-picked mosaic tiles accent the tiled room, complete with built-in with teak dressers and vanities. “I wanted the master bath to be just a little bit fancy. I really like our walk-in shower. It has no door, but it feels so private when you are in there,” Gwen said.

Alderwood custom bookcases are built into the walls of the several rooms in the house –the dining room, great room and den, which compliment the overall Hill Country feel of the house. “Storage space was very important to me when building this house. I am happy to say I have more storage than I know what to do with. I have so many bare cabinets –I love it! I also love the way this wood looks in this house, it is just such a great accent that sort of brings everything together.”

Gwen is especially proud of the wall unit on the far right wall of her great room, which hides the big-screen television.

The bookcase, in combination with the reclaimed wooden beams that line the vaulted ceiling, give Gwen’s great room the open and airy feel she was looking for.

A gorgeous floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace stands prominently in the center of the room with a massive stone wall just across from it, separating the great room from the formal dining area. Tall, commanding wood framed windows also accent the great room, bringing in the perfect glow of natural light. An informal dining area is centered in the open space that connects the great room to the kitchen, which is

An informal dining area is centered in the open space that connects the great room to the kitchen, which is complete with striking stone masonry, stylish cabinets and an island.

complete with striking stone masonry, stylish cabinets and an island.

Just off the kitchen is the Stewarts’ den, which is finished with a lighter wood to bring a Southwestern energy to the room.

“This is where we come and lounge,” Gwen says. “We watch TV in here and especially like this room for our guests.

They can close the door to the den and we can’t even hear them on the other end of the house. We also made our guest rooms smaller and without televisions. We thought this would encourage family and friends to stay here in the common area and hang out with us, rather than retreat to their rooms when they come to visit.”

Off the den is a massive laundry room, one Gwen says she specially designed to double as a hobby room. “When James is out in his shop, I spend time here putting together floral arrangements, a pastime I enjoy.” In mentioning the shop, a small space in the back that houses James’ shotgun shell reloading equipment, Gwen pointed out a special sink built under the awning that connects the house and garage.

“I wanted James to be able to wash his hands before he comes in the house and he didn’t want it taking up his counter space. This is just perfect here and it goes to show how forward thinking Israel is.

He has always been able to find a way to create what we need in a way that is appealing and practical.”

One of the Stewarts’ favorite features of the house is the back porch, complete with a wood-burning fireplace and water feature that creates the relaxing sound of a babbling brook. “We come out here every morning to enjoy our coffee together and visit. I love that we have next-door neighbors, but we don’t know they are there. Israel designed this just right so it feels like we are out here alone,” said Gwen.

“One of the things I want to mention is that there was only one tree that had to be removed to build our house. That says a lot about Authentic,” James said. “I can not say enough about how exceptional the entire design process was with Israel and his people. We felt we were listened to every step of the way and our requests were carried out with the utmost of efficiency and professionalism. Their expertise translated the information we gave them into a very great design. We love our house.”

The Stewarts plan to enjoy every moment of their retirement together and look toward the future with excitement.

“We are so fortunate to be afforded the opportunity to live here in Cordillera Ranch. Truly, we couldn’t be happier.”

HOME TOUR CHECKLIST:

LIGHTING Ferguson LANDSCAPING Pristine Pools CABINETRY The Cabinet Shop FLOORING Couture Floors FAUX FINISH Cheryl Martinez MASONRY Lorenzo Martinez DOORS San Marcos Doors

Realty

The #1 resource for Cordillera Ranch Real Estate Information.

Thanks to you, Cordillera Ranch Realty was the leader in all Cordillera Ranch home and lot sales in 2011!

We appreciate you entrusting your listings and referrals to us, and we look forward to serving you and yours in 2012.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Agents: Tracy Harris

Gary Peterson

Rick Grimes

Charles Mueller

tharris@cordilleraranch.com

gpeterson@cordilleraranch.com

rgrimes@cordilleraranch.com

cmueller@cordilleraranch.com

117 Park Ridge $1,025,000

5,269 Square Feet

A stunning 5,269 sq. ft. home on 8.66 acres of prime horse property within the gates of Cordillera Ranch is the perfect home for anyone looking for Hill Country acreage. Elegant and relaxed, this home is spacious and perfect for families of any size. · 5 Bedrooms · 4.5 Bathrooms · 4 Car Garage · Luxurious Master Suite including a seating area, oversized closets and a fitness room

· Large Kitchen with a subzero refrigerator, granite island prep area, walk-in pantry and copious amounts of storage space · Combined Kitchen and Family Room · Private and masculine Study/Library is the perfect workspace for any occasion

· Welcoming grand staircase in entryway · Custom heated pool/spa · Game Room upstairs • Master Full Golf Membership · Elegant Texas Hill Country blend of hardwood available for purchase flooring, travertine and carpet throughout the home

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

102 Swede Creek $999,500 4,404 Square Feet This 4,404 sq. ft. Mediterranean style estate on 5 acres is your own personal retreat. Custom heated Keith Zars pool and spa, imported tile flooring and state of the art appliances make this Hill Country retreat a home.

• 5 Bedrooms · 4.5 Bathrooms · Master bedroom has attached exercise room

· Central vacuum system · Over-sized Gourmet Kitchen with Stainless Steel GE appliance including a Monogram Refrigerator and Freezer

· Wet Bar · Media/Game Room · 33 Plantation Shutters · Large Wood Burning Fireplace

· Outdoor living area with lighting package is perfect for entertaining year-round

142 Riverwood $1,399,000 6,253 Square Feet Classic Tuscan design with clean lines, spacious and easy-flowing floor plan centered on 2.32 acres with heated pool and spa as the centerpiece of a fantastic outdoor living space.

• Master suite has oversized seating area plus attached fitness room • Oversized and richly appointed dining room • Upgraded tile and wooden flooring • Inviting floor plan that combines kitchen

with family room • Downstairs media room complete with surround sound, conveniently located next to the family room • Study with masculine built-ins

• Game room and bar combination • Heated pool and spa • Master Golf membership available for purchase

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• 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 3 half baths and 3 car garage • Chef’s kitchen with gas cooktop, large granite island, dual ovens and custom Alder cabinetry

40 Sunriver $1,095,000 4,692 Square Feet + 1,100 Square Foot Casita Immaculate Mediterranean style home nestled among many oaks on this 4.8 acre homesite. Enjoy the Texas Hill Country with the sprawling porches and outdoor kitchen.

• 4 bedroom, 4 full baths • 2 Walk-in closets • Oversized 3 car garage • Elegant, modern gourmet kitchen

• Travertine & wood floors throughout • Large, open family room • Sprawling outdoor living areas with outdoor kitchen & fireplace

• Spacious master bedroom with wood floors, 2 separate closets, jetted tub, walk-in shower & dual sinks • Additional acreage available next to this

property • 1,100 square foot casita that can be used as a workshop or guesthouse • Full Golf Membership Available

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

3383 rio cordillera $1,199,000 4,730 Square Feet + 717 Square Foot Casita This beautiful custom home by Burdick & Christofilis sits among the oaks and is on 5.43 horse friendly acres. Enjoy a private setting from the covered patio overlooking the pool with an outdoor kitchen.

• 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bath, 3 car garage • Detached casita with full kitchen, living, separate bedroom & fireplace with 1 car garage • Thermador professional stainless steel

appliances including a 6 burner-griddle cook top, double ovens, warming drawer & 48” built-in • Elegant slate, wood & travertine

flooring

• 180 bottle built-in wine cooler • Sound system is throughout the house & outdoor kitchen • Outdoor kitchen with DCS grill & fireplace

• Media room with HP projector & 96” screen • Keith Zars Pool with pebble-tec finish & automated salt water system • Full Golf Membership Available

325 Park Ridge $1,749,000 5,953 Square Feet This Burdick & Christofilis model home lacks nothing. The 3.38 acre estate features fantastic views of the hill country from the spacious outdoor living area.

• 4 bedroom suites, including a downstairs guest suite & 3 car garage • Luxurious master suite with circular spa, sauna, coffee bar & private exercise room • Elegant country kitchen with gourmet touches including Wolf stainless steel

148 RIVERWOOD $1,175,000

oven, hidden super-sized pantry & cabinets galore • A secluded 2nd floor casita with a kitchen ette & optional separate entry • Handsome burgundy hued library lined with hardwood shelves & white

marble fireplace • Sprawling outdoor living area offers mul tiple sitting areas with sound system, flat screen TV’s and fireplace • Remote control bug screen completes the outdoor living area & makes it a

joy to entertain • Separate office/guest suite off the outdoor living offers privacy when working from home or a guest’s retreat complete with full bath • Full Golf Membership Available

4,538 Square Feet

This stunning Burdick & Christofilis home is nestled among mature oak trees and on this beautiful 2.01 acre piece of the Hill Country. Its open floor plan and spacious outdoor living area complete with a custom pool make this home perfect for relaxing and entertaining alike. · Elegant hill country blend of slate and hardwood flooring makes this home warm and inviting · 2 acres on central water and sewer

· Open floor plan-- spacious kitchen with gas cook top, granite countertops and center island---ideal for entertaining · Wolf & Sub-zero appliances

· 4 bedrooms / 4 baths with 3 car garage pool setting · Large Master retreat with sitting area · Master Full Golf Membership · Spacious outdoor summer kitchen with Available fireplace that transitions into a spectacular

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

25 augusta $2,595,000 7,300 Square Feet This Stadler Custom Home was featured as the “WOAI Concept Home.” The ultimate entertainment home on more than 1.5 acres overlooking the 15th tee box on the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

• 4 bedroom, 4 ½ bath, with 3 car garage • Enormous gourmet kitchen features Miele appliances & an abundance of counter space

• Coffee bar in master bathroom • Two-sided salt water aquarium visual in both study & entry way • The ultimate outdoor living area with a

fireplace, cascading waterfall pool, hot tub & a full outdoor kitchen • State of the art Zenpanion electronic/ audio/visual home automation system

• Private outdoor putting green • Golf simulator room & golf cart garage • Numerous water features • Full Golf Membership Available

108 ARROYO $599,000 +/-3,700 Square Feet This beautifully appointed hill country home sits among the richly developed area of Riverwood in Cordillera Ranch. The open floor plan includes an island kitchen with gas cook top. Enjoy the peaceful and quiet setting leading from the back porch to the beautifully landscaped pool/spa on 2.37 acres.

• 4 Bedroom, 3 bath, formal dining, home office and media room · Oversized 3 car garage · Kitchen with gas cook top and center

island, breakfast bar

· Spacious open great room with vaulted • Rustic Alder and custom painted ceilings and fireplace cabinetry · Large back porch leads to a private · Custom faux painting in great room, pool and hot tub with custom decking kitchen and dining and landscaping · Wired for stereo, security system and

computer networking · Home theater equipment and furniture remain · Hill country architecture including rock

and metal seam roof

112 Horseshoe bend $890,000 3,984 Square Feet A Mediterranean style estate in the rolling hills of Cordillera Ranch, this 6.23 acre dream home is spacious yet private with a custom pool overlooking miles of the Texas Hill Country.

The open floor plan is perfect for the growing family or those who love to entertain, it really doesn’t get any better than this!

• Elegant and functional kitchen with double ovens, gas cooktop, Alder cabinetry, and granite countertops.

• Oversized master bedroom with sprawling

master bath.

• Separate walk in closets. . Masculine office/study. . Elegant family living area with crown

moldings, vaulted ceilings, and travertine floors. . Two fireplaces for your enjoyment. . Heated infinity pool.

. Huge game room with full bath. . Expertly designed Panache landscaping.

• Massive 3 car garage. 

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

120 Acker $1,849,000 +/- 5,514 Square Feet 23.96 Acres Nestled on nearly 24 acres on the Guadalupe River with approximately 1,200 feet of frontage, this breath taking estate is a custom creation by Robert Thornton. This home offers the finest architectural detail and design and is positioned for you to take in all of the amazing Hill Country views.

• 5 Bedroom, 4.5 Baths w/ 3 car garage.

• Scored and Stained Concrete Floors in Living Area.

• Long Leaf Pine in Study & Dining Room • Fabulous architectural details such as

arched entry & beamed ceilings.

• Hand trowel walls & wrought iron accents.

• Gourmet commercial grade kitchen.

• True butler’s pantry including wine chiller.

• Covered outdoor Living.

• Approx 1200 ft. of river frontage, easy access • 24 Acres of tranquil secluded beauty located on the Guadalupe river • Year round Spring Fed Creek

• Fully equipped security System.

• Master Transferable Full Golf Membership is available

2825 Rio Cordillera $2,495,000 7,100 Square Feet Custom dream home with separate casita. Enter gracious foyer leading to banks of retractable glass walls that offer views of outdoor living.

• Pool / spa • 2 Fireplaces • 2 Summer kitchens • Wine cellar

• Master suite with fireplace • Dry sauna • His & her baths with separate dressing areas

• Additional washer/dryer • Strategically placed cameras to view your home from your laptop anywhere in the world

• Lutron Lighting • Outdoor private spa off of master wing • Maxed out home theater • Delightful music or games room

51 Muirfield $1,795,000 5,698 Square Feet A spectacular estate overlooking the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. This home’s family room is the epicenter of all the activity sculpted around the fireplace. From this room, architecturally designed windows showcase the beautiful course scenery. The gourmet kitchen has Thermador appliances and a large island for food preparation. The owners retreat has a fireplace with sitting room, exercise room, dual vanities in the spacious master bath with walk in shower. The soothing Spanish courtyard with water features has adjoining casita.

• 1.12 acres overlooking the 13th and 14th fairways.

• 4 bedroom • 4 bath

• 3 half baths • 3 car garage • Gourmet kitchen with Thermador appliances.

• Master suite with sitting area & exercise room • Travertine and wood flooring • Formal study with many built-ins

• Wine room in the formal dining room • Outdoor kitchen with fireplace • Master Golf Membership available

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

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Cordillera Ranch Realty Homes for Sale 1 - 142 Riverwood 2 - 117 Park Ridge 3 - 40 Sunriver 4 - 3383 Rio Cordillera 5 - 325 Park Ridge 6 - 148 Riverwood 7 - 25 Augusta 8 - 2825 Rio Cordillera 9 - 108 Arroyo 10 - 112 Horseshoe Bend 11 - 120 Acker 12 - 51 Muirfield 13 - 102 Swede Creek

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EXECUTIVE OFFICE FOR LEASE / SALE 2 Spencer Lane, off Hwy. 46 West, Boerne, TX 78006 This exquisite office retreat favors the finest Hill Country appeal with stucco & stone construction, metal roof & fine details that add residential warmth to an Scan with your smart phone to see a virtual tour of 2 Spencer Lane

office environment. All one level, it has excellent access with ramped sidewalks & ample parking. Large trees are complemented with xeriscaped grounds & stone work for entrance walls, accents & drainage paths. The generous design

Scan with your smart phone to view the property website

has potential for 8 separate offices for lease with an impressive lobby, tiled bathrooms, 12’ ceilings, & designer windows for natural light.

Spaces ranging from 850 sq.ft. - 2,300 sq.ft. • Rent starting at $1/sq.ft.

Bluebonnet Realty

P :: 830-816-2288 | F :: 830-816-5903 | www.boernetexashomes.com

ANGELA SCHOOLEY | 210.912.8221 | angela@smvtexas.com

CORDILLERA RANCH LIVING

808 Hwy 46 East Boerne, Texas 78006

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