Cordillera Ranch Living March/April 2016

Volume 9, Issue 2

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March/April 2016

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WHAT MAKE S THE CLUBS OF COR DILLE R A R ANCH SPECIAL? GOLF ME R ITAG E

SECOND HALF

THE GOLF COUR SE :

DAVID AND MADELINE COTTRELL

10 YEAR ANNIVE R SARY DR EAM ABOVE THE R AVINE

C O R D I L L E RARANCH L IVING. CO M

PREFERRED BUILDER IN CORDILLERA RANCH

Garner Custom Homes is an award-winning custom home builder in Boerne and

the Texas Hill Country. Since 1998, Garner Custom Homes has been designing and

After interviewing several high quality custom

• All of our homes are designed with the impeccable craftsmanship and

not be happier with our home. We consider the

building custom homes, uniquely and exquisitely.

to build our dream retirement home. We could

commitment to customer satisfaction that the Garner Homes Team has embraced since its inception.

• We specialize in the Design/Build approach to homebuilding.

• Our expectation is to provide professional design and construction expertise in hopes of earning trust and creating a timeless, well-built home.

builders, my wife and I chose Garner Homes

entire Garner team our friends. We could not

recommend them more strongly.”

Mark and Marcia Pratt

2320 Clubs Drive

(210 ) 4 93-1686 | W W W.G ARNER HO M ES.CO M

Find Your Style...

ERNE • 830-331-1349 322 SOUTH MAIN ST., BO UE.COM WWW.DAISYPEARLBOUTIQ

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDER

Robert, Travis and the Great Homes team at their new offices within the Schwarz Homestead Immediately across the street from the Boerne Post Office

TEAMWORK The collaborative effort of our experienced team brings critical thinking, creativity and value to the homebuilding process that is beyond compare. We build pure custom homes - always specifically designed to meet your needs, and always very site specific.

If you’re in the market just ask our current or former clients, and along with rave reviews of quality and creativity you’ll learn the intangible reasons for the success of Great Homes.

Thank you to each of our 85+ friends and clients of Cordillera Ranch for allowing us the opportunity to be a part of your team.

ROBERT S. THORNTON, LP – GREAT HOMES 616 EAST BLANCO, SUITE 300A, BOERNE TX 78006 830.249.3646 | WWW.RSTHORNTON.COM

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WHAT IS GOLF MERITAGE? The fusion of golf instruction and different modes of fitness creates a foundation on which golfers strengthen their game and their endurance.

BY ANN-KRISTIN AND GEVIN ALLEN

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WHAT MAKES THE CLUBS OF CORDILLERA SPECIAL? With considerable time and money devoted to hiring and training, it’s the quality Employee-Partners that top the list of assets of Cordillera Ranch and provide rewarding experiences for members.

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70

BY CHARLIE HILL

BY MAURI ELBEL

GOLF COURSE: Part two in this series details the preservation of the terrain and native vegetation on the ranch and how these features were incorporated into the construction of each hole.

DREAM ABOVE THE RAVINE Boasting three levels of luxurious finishes, Stadler Custom Homes considered the property’s natural attributes when creating a floor plan centered on the breathtaking views.

BY MONTY BECTON

ALSO INSIDE: 14 WELCOME LETTER 16 A DAY IN THE LIFE AT CORDILLERA RANCH 30 RANCH SCENE 32 MEMBER TRADITIONS 34 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 42 STAFF PROFILE: CAREY YEAGER 44 SAN ANTONIO’S 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIESTA CELEBRATES RICH HISTORY 46 LOVELY LAVENDER 48 GOLF 56 SUMMER CAMP AT CORDILLERA RANCH 60 GOLF & ADVENTURE GET-A-WAYS WITH THE CLUBS OF CORDILLERA RANCH 62 EXPLORE YOUR CORE 64 WONDER BREAD 76 CORDILLERA RANCH REAL ESTATE

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SECOND HALF David and Madeline Cottrell The Cottrells may divide their time between Texas, Louisiana and numerous lecturing tours, but they value their time spent at Cordillera Ranch thanks to the amenities, staff and friendships they have made.

BY CHERYL VAN TUYL JIVIDEN

8 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

PREFERRED

BUILDERS FAIR

and the Progress Party at The Springs of Cordillera Ranch

SATURDAY, APRIL 23rd.

10am - 3pm PARTICIPATING BUILDERS

Save yourself time and money in the design process and builder selection via direct dialogue with Cordillera Ranch’s Preferred Builders. The Cordillera Ranch Sales team and Pasadera Builders will also be available.

Come tour the seven resort-style

Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Builders Fair: 10am - 3pm

Cordillera Ranch Clubhouse The Springs of Cordillera Ranch Progress Party,

featuring live music and Texas Barbecue.

5pm – 7pm :: FM 3351 at the entrance to The Springs

TEXAS INVESTORS TITLE Performance is our Priority

Commercial, Ranch and Residential Title Transactions

Steve Vallone President

steve@texasinvestorstitle.com

Becky Edmiston

Beverly McCormick

Residential Escrow Officer beverly@texasinvestorstitle.com

Vice President/Escrow Officer becky@texasinvestorstitle.com

116 W. Blanco Rd., Ste 101 Boerne, TX 78006

p. (830) 816-5888 • f. (830) 816-5889

W

WELCOME

Welcome to the March 2016 issue of Cordillera Ranch Living, and given that there were over 100 new lot and home buyers in Cordillera Ranch during 2015, welcome to all of those new faces that are joining our community.

We just wrapped up yet another record-breaking year in terms of Cordillera Ranch real estate activity, totaling over $100MM in home sales, lot sales and new home starts for the 2nd straight year. The year ended with over 139 transactions (lot sales, home sales and home starts) totaling over $105MM. The 44 home sales during the year at an average price of $940k has helped cut home inventory by over 25% in the past 12 months to 34 homes on the market as of mid-February. This is the tightest supply of home inventory we’ve had in over seven years and it represents less than 5% of the homes in the community.

Overall, lot sales activity was up 10% in 2015 versus the prior year, including resale and developer lots sold, with an average price of $300k per lot. CR Realty accounted for 78% of the total volume of lot sales and 55% of homes in 2015.

There were 33 new home starts in 2015 and the Cordillera Ranch Preferred Builders accounted for 82% of those homes.

We recently completed our newest section of Golf Frontage Estate lots offering views of multiple holes and views to the north and northwest. This new addition, along with the completion of the 2nd phase of Di Lusso Villas and the addition of Bears Ridge, helped drive some of the new growth in the community.

The next section of Cordillera Ranch, The Springs of Cordillera Ranch, is well underway with a diverse new mix of 0.7-acre to 3-acre+ view and creek-front lots set to be completed during the summer of 2016. The Springs will include an interconnected walking and biking trail system, along with nature trails, horse trails, Panther Creek Park (similar to Swede Park) and The Springs Sports Park complete with two new sports fields and basketball court. Lots in The Springs are now available to be contracted and range from $100k to $300k+.

To see an aerial tour of the construction progress at The Springs, please visit the Cordillera Video Gallery at www.cordilleraranch.com/discover/video-gallery/ and scroll down to select the ‘Springs of Cordillera Ranch Virtual Tour.’ To understand more about the Cordillera Ranch real estate market or learn about the opportunities in The Springs of Cordillera Ranch, call or stop by the Cordillera Ranch Visitor Center (830.336.3570).

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

PUBLISHERS: Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation Traveling Blender, LLC CORDILLERA RANCH DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Charlie Hill – President cphill@cordilleraranch.com DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Sara Hill 210.332.8628 shill@cordilleraranchliving.com EDITOR Trisha Doucette trisha@travelingblender.com EDITORIAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM Monty Becton, Barry Denton, Shane Reynolds, Robert Rodriguez CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tim Shaw – The Shaw Creative theshawcreative@me.com CORDILLERA RANCH SALES 830.336.3570 info@cordilleraranch.com Clubs of Cordillera Ranch 830.336.9000 Feature article photography by Jason Risner Photography 210.250.1897 :: www.risnerphoto.com

Charlie Hill President Cordillera Ranch

The Springs of Cordillera Ranch

14 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

LIVING

Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 808 Highway 46 E, Boerne, Texas 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2015. 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, Traveling Blender, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents.

Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

A DAY IN THE LIFE AT CORDILLERA RANCH

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A DAY IN THE LIFE AT CORDILLERA RANCH

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E N E C U VAISON WINE DINNER

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

MGA S TA FF

KICK-OFF SCRAMBLE

Photos by Club photographer Kelsey Grudle

CALENDAR

MEMBER TRADITIONS Our Ranch Menu is available every day with great new features!

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Wednesday Evenings

Come to The Club on Tuesday nights for Pasta Night! We now offer a made-to-order pasta bar, including salad, pizza and dessert from 5:00 to 9:00pm! Perfect for the whole family.

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 a winner is not present.)

Sample Manny’s wine picks of the week!

CORDILLERA RANCH’S SIGNATURE DINING MENU

Friday Evenings

Sundays

Join us for dinner at The Club as we spotlight our chef’s finest steak and seafood creations, delivering an unparalleled fine dining experience

This elegant dining experience includes live music and our chef’s finest creations. Live entertainment is featured from 6:00 to 9:00pm.

Advance reservations are strongly suggested.

Remember when Mom used to cook Sunday family meals? We do! Join us at The Club for some home-style cookin’! $15.95++ for adults and $8.95++ for children ages 10 and under, from 11:00am to 8:00pm.

PASTA NIGHT!

CORDILLERA RANCH GOLD RUSH

Thursday-Saturday Evenings

SIGNATURE DINING

WEEKLY WINE PICKS

FAMILY MEAL FEATURE

To make reservations for any of these events, please contact The Club reception desk at 830.336.9000, or reserve your spot online at Clubsofcordilleraranch.com.

Facility available for special events Call for details Guitar Workshops Artist Performances String instrument rentals for students

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

CALENDAR

EVENTS MARCH

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March 2-4 Short Game Clinic

1618

March 16-18 Spring Break Junior Golf Clinic

MAR

Time: 9:00am to 11:00am, Golf Instruction 11:00am to 12:00pm, Lunch Fee: $125 (Includes instruction and lunch per day) Guests of a member may attend on a space available basis for an additional fee.

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March 24 Wine Dinner

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March 26 Easter Eggstravaganza

MAR

MAR

MAR

27 MAR

Time: 5:00pm to 6:30pm Focus on chipping, pitching, bunkers and putting Fee: $75 total or $25 per session

This special evening features wine and dining with excellent pairings created by Chef Isaac and his team.

10:30am to 1:30pm Come out to the Equestrian Center for an”egg” stravagant afternoon of Easter fun! We will have an egg hunt, games, horses, a visit from the Easter Bunny and more! Participants will also enjoy an afternoon lunch and unique photo opportunities.

March 27 Easter Brunch

11:00am to 2:00pm Spring is in the air and Easter Brunch is on the menu.

We’ve gathered together some of our tastiest options for your special Sunday! Kids will enjoy a special appearance by the Easter Bunny and adults can sip a mimosa or two while listening the music and vocals of Bernie Martini on piano. This is sure to be a brunch you won’t want to miss!

APRIL 2

April 2 Spring Kick-Off

APR

6:00pm to 9:30pm Let’s ring in spring poolside with dancing, great food and entertainment by Smoke Wagon.

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APRIL 2-3 10th Annual Cordillera Cup

APR

Format: Ryder Cup Format (Four-Ball, Foursome and Singles) Entry Fee: $175 - Includes food, tee-gifts and bragging rights Friday Night Pairings Party: 5:00pm – 6:30pm

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April 8 Master’s One-Day Member-Guest

1314

April 13-14 CWGA Fiesta Tournament

APR

APR

Time: 11:00am Lunch, 12:30pm Shotgun Entry Fee with 1 Guest: $150 Entry Fee with 2 Guests: $250 Entry Fee with 3 Guests: $325 Register in the Golf Shop.

Time: 9:00am Shotgun Contact CWGA Tournament Chair Yana Dommert for details.

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April 16 Blockbuster Demo Day

1920

April 19-20 Texas Towne Matches

APR

Inter-Club matches will be held at BlueJack National and Miramont. Cordillera Ranch members will be competing against members from some of the finest clubs in the Southwest. The team is made up of the top finishers in the MGA Cup Points Race that ended in October of last year.

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April 28 Flanagan Wine Dinner

2930

April 29-30 El Compadre Member-Member

APR

APR

APR

Time: 9:00am to 3:00pm Try the hottest and best golf equipment available in the industry! Companies represented include Taylor Made, Callaway, Titleist, Ping, Nike, Adams, Cobra and more.

Discounts apply to all merchandise purchased that day.

We are also offering you a chance to do some “spring cleaning.” A representative will be on hand with trade-in values for your old equipment. This is a great way to try new products, get fit properly, purchase equipment at a great price and trade-in your old clubs.

Join us for an evening of excellent wine and food pairings created by Chef Isaac and his team.

Format: Two-Person Combined Quota and Net BB Quota Men’s and Women’s Division Entry Fee: $350 per team - Includes tee-gifts, prizes and food, plus a Saturday night Casino Party for participants and spouses. One of the best events of the year!

For information on all golf events, contact the Golf Shop at 830.336.4653.

For information on dining and other activities, contact The Club reception desk at 830.336.9000.

SECOND

HA LF

By Cheryl Van Tuyl Jividen :: Photography by Jason Risner

Life can be circuitous.

For David and Madeline Cottrell in their new Di Lusso Villa, the journey has been one of intersected and parallel paths.

The two met as professional peers in the early 1980’s in Memphis, Tennessee where they both held leadership positions for Fedex.

David and Madeline Cottrell in their new Di Lusso Villa

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 37

In the midst of her successful business career, Madeline, a Tulane graduate chose to move to Mandeville, Louisiana and raise her three children. David, a zealous University of Arkansas alum, left FedEx to turn around a chapter 11 company for three years and then began his own company.

The two lost touch with each other.

Neither knew that the other was living a very similar life full of devoted love and the challenges of caring for their seriously ill spouses. After 36 years of marriage, and a valiant fight, David’s wife, Karen succumbed to breast cancer. Madeline’s husband of 32 years, John passed away after a brave battle with Parkinsonism.

Thirty years after they met in Memphis, the two reconnected on an ExFedex message board. David in his grief contacted Madeline for advice on how to move forward after his loss. Eventually a long distance courtship was sparked.

In 2013 the couple wed and began their new lives together. Says Madeline, “David and I combined have six children – ironically we both have two girls and a boy named Michael. When we married, we made a firm decision to stay close to both families and split our time between Texas where David’s children live and Louisiana where my children, siblings and mom live.”

The couple decided to move from David’s home in Horseshoe Bay to Cordillera Ranch to be closer to David’s family.

They divide their time between their home in Covington, Louisiana and Cordillera Ranch, in part to allow Madeline to continue management of her farm. “I spent many years volunteering in children’s school and youth groups, travelling to horse shows and sporting events and enjoying family time at our farm. Over the years, the farm has become a place where youth groups love to come for weekend

retreats and summer camps, so I now manage that from near or far. The farm, called Bocamb, is located in Folsom, about an hour north of New Orleans.”

The duo also travels often for David’s work. David is founder and CEO of Cornerstone Leadership, which he started in 1996. Having authored over 30 books, he continues writing management and leader-

ship books, and speaks about his philosophies at dozens of keynote events around the world each year. His newest release — Don’t be Stupid. Don’t be a Jerk. The Two Greatest Rules for Leaders to Win with Class will be published this spring.

Cordillera Ranch initially caught David’s attention in a Dallas Morning News article about top golf courses in Texas. They en-

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 39

listed architect Roy Braswell and Gabe Garcia of Pasadera Builders to fulfill their vision after they chose the right location in the Di Lusso Villas. “We love the Hill Country and the beautiful views offered in Di Lusso. We wanted to be close to the clubhouse and also liked the lock and leave concept. The ready-made community has helped us meet new friends quickly and some of our longtime best friends built next door,” says Madeline. David agrees

40 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

that since they moved in June of 2015, the fit has been great, “We’ve met a lot of wonderful people through The Club and our Di Lusso neighbors. Di Lusso is like a village where we’re all connected. Most of the Di Lusso residents travel frequently and we look out for each other when someone is away from home.”

Madeline says an unexpected pleasure of their home is the time they are able to spend outside, “We love living on the golf course and spending time on the outdoor terrace. It’s pleasant even in the summer. David is an awesome griller and I enjoy cooking traditional Cajun dishes and eating outdoors.”

It’s more than their home and location that have impressed the Cottrells; it’s the Cordillera Ranch lifestyle, amenities and services. Madeline, an accomplished equestrian with hunter jumper experience hadn’t been on a horse in 10 years when she joined Mary Ann Smith’s trail riding group. “The trails are fabulous,” she says. “I enjoy trail riding at the Equestrian Center with other women who share this passion. The horses that The Club owns are perfect for me and I don’t have to buy and board a horse to participate. The trail horses are young and healthy!” From the stable’s young herd, she’s chosen Paisley, an Appaloosa she rides every chance she gets.

David, a lifetime golfer is on the links at least twice a week and has enjoyed meeting new people to play golf with. “Cordillera management does an excellent job with new residents like us, hosting events like golf tournaments, Gold Rush nights, wine dinners, new member socials, etc.,” says Madeline. David calls out

“We’ve met a lot of wonderful people through The Club and our Di Lusso neighbors. Di Lusso is like a village where we’re all connected.” - David Cottrell the professionals who make the experience special, specifically Marc DeWall, Debbie Pepper and Monty Becton. David cites the Country Club as one of the best features they didn’t realize they’d enjoy so much. “From the moment Phil Sloan greets us we feel at home. The way we are treated is a wonderful gift.

There are a lot of great people that have helped us blend in.”

Sharing their home and the beauty of Hill Country living with family is a priority. “We have seven grandchildren living in Texas (with another on the way in June), four of whom live close by, in Spring Branch. We spend time with them in the pool area and we love how much they love to visit us here,” says David.

The Cottrells lead Christ-centered lives. Madeline has even contributed her biblical knowledge to David’s writing. She sees even more faith opportunities ahead, “We both share great joy in a close relationship with Our Lord and have been extremely active in our Churches. We look forward to serving in new and exciting ways in our future together.”

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 41

STAFF PROFILE

We are pleased to announce the addition of Cordillera Ranch Resident and Club Member Carey Yeager to the sales team of Cordillera Ranch Realty.

Carey Yeager 830.388.6363 Licensed Real Estate Agent, CR Realty Professional Focus and Business Style With over 35 years of award-winning experience in Residential Real Estate, I have represented both buyers and sellers from the coastal areas of San Diego, California, to the desert communities surrounding Palm Springs, and now to the Hill Country of Texas. In the pursuit of a luxury lifestyle, a real estate professional with proven credentials is a valuable partner in that quest.

I apply my personal and business philosophy, “High Expectations Deliver Exceptional Results,” to every transaction I am involved with. I have consistently achieved a high level of customer service which is evident by my client loyalty and referral-driven business. With the longevity of my years in the business and my experience with the historical and invigorating cycles of real estate, I bring an invaluable education to my clients and a well-rounded level of expertise.

Personal Background and Why Cordillera Ranch?

My husband Art and I were drawn to Cordillera Ranch and the Hill Country for many reasons, but at the top of the list was the privacy of the area, the spectacular golf course amenities, the lovely people and the close proximity to family. Art and I thoroughly considered and investigated many areas where we wanted to live before choosing Cordillera Ranch. Art previously lived in San Antonio and always considered returning to Texas. The fact that his daughter and two grandchildren live approximately 30 minutes away was a special enticement and it’s wonderful to have them close at hand!

Why Cordillera Ranch Realty?

Having recently gone through the process of making the move, buying a lot in Cordillera, working with a Preferred Builder, building our home here and meeting new friends, I feel I can relate to potential new residents and members in their quest to learn more about Cordillera Ranch. Having had the wonderful experiences we have had in this transition and with my real estate experience, it seems a perfect and exciting opportunity to be an active part of the sales team. A great deal of my real estate career has been in representing both buyers and sellers of luxury golf course communities which blends perfectly with the selling of the Cordillera Ranch lifestyle.

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SAN ANTONIO’S 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF

FIESTA

THE CITY’S BIGGEST PARTY HAS A PAST

By Julie Catalano :: Photography courtesy of Fiesta San Antonio Commission

It all started in 1891, when a group of ladies led by

1904

Ellen Maury Slayden, wife of congressman James L. Slayden, decided that a good way to honor the heroes of the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto would be to hold a parade. The enterprising group decorated horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, rudimentary floats and their own children in flower themes, circling Alamo Plaza while pelting one another with blooms.

The Battle of Flowers parade was born.

44 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

The event was such a hit that early San Antonians did what modern-day San Antonians are still doing — they expanded it. Soon there was a carnival, parties, pretend royalty, food, fairs and dancing in the streets. Sound familiar?

Now eleven days long and more than 100 events strong, the city’s biggest blowout marks its 125th anniversary from April 1424, 2016. (Although there haven’t been 125 actual Fiestas — from 1942-45 the event was suspended but efforts remained in place to make sure it continued after WWII.)

By 1896 the first Fiesta Queen was chosen, but it was three years before the queen got a jeweled crown, a gift from Russian immigrant and jeweler Eli Hertzberg.

In 1909, transplanted Virginian John Baron Carrington, executive secretary of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, founded the Order of the Alamo, an all-male organization in charge of the official queen’s revamped and upgraded coronation. Her court consists of a princess, 12 in-town duchesses and another dozen from out of town. Queens serve for

Fiesta’s Battle of Flowers parade is the second largest day parade in the country, right after the Tournament of Roses. only one year, the exception being Alamo patron Clara Driscoll who held on to her crown for three years (1904-06) before the rule was changed.

The queen’s coronation is still considered the most dazzling Fiesta event, thanks to over-the-top gowns boasting thousands of jewels, beads, sequins,

of the Alamo, but also to select perennial figurehead King Antonio from its ranks.

Prior to that, early kings of Fiesta were chosen by businesses and organizations — King Selamat (tamales spelled backwards), King Omala (Alamo spelled backwards), King Cotton, Zeus and Rex. The first King Antonio, Sterling Clinton Burke, was

2015

the Charro Queen and the Reina de la Feria de las Flores, who debuted in 1947 with the first Rey Feo. With all this pomp and circumstance, it was inevitable that an irreverent take on the royal hoopla would emerge. The highly cheeky, adult-themed Cornyation dates back to 1951, skewering upper crust Fiesta royalty, local “celebrities” and politicians.

It is one of the Fiesta’s hottest tickets.

Fun and frolic aside, the spirit of giving also has an enduring legacy, with millions raised for community outreach, charitable foundations, school programs, arts and sports activities, scholarships and other worthy causes. Since 1959, the Fiesta® San Antonio Commission has coordinated the massive annual undertaking, now grown to 100 nonprofit organizations and more than 75,000 volunteers, helping to generate an economic impact on the city in excess of $250 million a year.

It’s a long way from those first flower bombs at the Battle of Flowers parade, now the second largest day parade in the country (the Tournament of Roses is first), but the landmark spectacle considered to be the founding event of Fiesta is still run entirely by women volunteers — just

Fiesta economically impacts San Antonio in excess of $250 million a year. feathers and more, worn by the court in an eye-popping spectacle held amid the equally splendorous surroundings of the Majestic Theatre. Over the years, the courts have carried such evocative themes as the Court of Resplendent Arts, Court of Millennial Grandeur and Court of Captivating Islands, with dresses, music and staging to match the fantasy.

The enterprising Carrington continued his mission of promoting and expanding Fiesta by founding the Texas Cavaliers in 1926, primarily to honor the fallen heroes

crowned in 1927 in the first investiture ceremony which is still held in front of the Alamo on the first Saturday of Fiesta.

Rey Feo (“Ugly King”) first appeared on the scene in 1947, a symbolic “People’s King” that has its roots in Spanish medieval times when ordinary people selected one of their own. Rey Feo became an official part of Fiesta in 1980 and rides in all the parades with other royalty. Official royalty has also grown and diversified, and now includes Miss Fiesta San Antonio, the Queen of Soul,

one of the many beloved traditions of a magnificent party that will continue its rich and colorful history as long as there’s a San Antonio.

For Fiesta event calendar and ticket information, www.fiesta-sa.org, 210.227.5191.

For historical information, the San Antonio Public Library 6th Floor Texana/Genealogy Department has archived copies of Fiesta programs, Coronation Ball invitations, complete listings of Fiesta royalty and more, www.mysapl.org, 210.207.2500.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 45

LOVELY LAVENDER GET READY TO CELEBRATE THIS ALLURING HILL COUNTRY TREASURE

By Julie Catalano Photography courtesy of Becker Vineyards

Lavender. Just the word is soothing. What is it about this herb with its calming scent and pleasing hue that brings feelings of comfort and joy to those who see it, smell it, wear it, eat it and drink it? Whatever its many charms are, Texans can’t seem to get enough of it.

For starters, lavender is among the world’s most versatile folk remedies, often considered good for almost everything that ails you, from anxiety to whooping cough. In addition, it works and plays well with others — pairing beautifully with a host of herbs, oils and essences like cedarwood, clove, clary sage, lime and rose hips, to name a few. It’s a staple at farmer’s markets, where area lavender farms display their aromatic wares of lavender teas, tinctures, essential oils and other purpley treats.

Best of all, lavender is the centerpiece of two annual spring parties where aficionados can revel in all things lavender, getting up close and personal with this superstar herb.

At Becker Vineyards, located between Fredericksburg and Stonewall, owners Richard and Bunny Becker oversee a splendid winery with award-winning wines that have garnered national acclaim since 1992. The compound includes 46 acres of estate fruit and lavender along with Stonewall peach orchards.

For almost two decades, Becker’s wines have shared the spotlight with the lavender fields that surround the property — the result of a journey to the Rhone River Valley of Provence where the Beckers first fell in love with the endless rows of lavender in the French countryside. After years of searching for the best varieties that could withstand the volatile Texas weather cycle of heat, droughts and floods, they settled exclusively on the Stoechas (Spanish) variety to recreate their long-ago vision of a Texas-grown lavender farm.

“The lavender we grow likes a hot, dry climate similar to Provence,” explains Nichole Bendele, public relations manager

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at Becker Vineyards. “Lavender likes a well-draining sandy loam soil.” This, she adds, “is what makes the Hill Country a great place for it. But if you are in an area which is hot and dry with well-draining soil, you can grow it.”

Visitors can enjoy the view of the lavender fields behind the spacious and impressive tasting room, especially during the blooming season of April and May, strolling the grounds or relaxing on the pavilion with wine, cheese and charcuterie. The Lavender Shop is part of the majestic tasting room, with shelves of aromatic offerings such as therapy creams, soy candles, handmade soaps, room sprays, linen sprays and much more. An online customer favorite is the Lavender Gift Basket with shower gel, lotion, lip balm, grapeseed scrub and culinary lavender with recipe card.

18th Annual Becker Vineyards Lavender Fest, April 30-May 1 This year, the vineyards are readying for the 18th Annual Becker Vineyards Lavender Fest on April 30-May 1, where lavender lovers will enjoy cooking demonstrations, winery tours, wine tasting, live music, vendors with lavender and other herbrelated products, and more than 30 artisans with gardeningthemed crafts for sale. Lavender Luncheons are available, says Bendele, “but if you can’t make those, there will be food concessions.” Educational speakers will give lavender gardening tips and other informational talks. The event is free and open to the public, with a nominal parking fee.

As usual, Mother Nature is in charge of exactly what festivalgoers will see in the fields. “Hopefully the lavender will be blooming at that time,” says Bendele. “It did last year and it was so very exciting to see the plant that you’re celebrating in full bloom at the festival.”

12th Annual Blanco Lavender Festival, June 10-12 The Texas lavender lovefest continues at the 12th Annual Blanco Lavender Festival on June 10-12. Blanco, known as the Lavender Capital of Texas®, is located 45 miles north of San Antonio and 45 miles west of Austin, with a lavender blooming season of May through July.

The Festival Market features a collection of vendors and artists on the grounds of the historic Old Blanco County Courthouse. Local and regional lavender farms set up booths selling their own products and plants on the town square, along with creations by Texas artists and craftspeople. At the courthouse, speakers give informational talks on the seemingly endless uses of lavender in cooking, aromatherapy, gardening and more.

There’s live music, food concessions and free farm tours to nearby lavender farms.

For information on lavender festivals: Becker Vineyards, www.beckervineyards.com Blanco Chamber of Commerce, www.blancochamber.com General lavender information: Texas Lavender Association, www.texaslavenderassociation.org

Wendy McCurley, MD Board Certified Family Medicine Charles McCurley, MD Board Certified Family Medicine Board Certified Sports Medicine We also offer BBL Photofacials, Rosacea and Acne Treatments, as well as Laser Hair Removal.

136 Old San Antonio Rd, Suite 406 Boerne, TX 78006 www.sfmboerne.com • 830.816.5800

Golf

GOLF

March marks the beginning of the busy spring golf season here in South Texas.

The bunker renovation project is now complete and the golf course looks absolutely fantastic with the new Bunker White sand out of California. Not only is it a great time to come out and play with some friends or clients when the golf course is in fantastic shape, but we also have a number of events that highlight the tournament calendar.

The Cordillera Ranch Golf Professional staff will once again be hosting an Adult Short Game Clinic Tuesday-Thursday, March 2 – 4 from 5:00pm – 6:30pm at the Practice Park. This always seems to be a well-attended event and space is limited to the first 24 participants. Focus will be on Chipping and Pitching, Bunker play and Putting.

The 10th Annual Cordillera Cup will take place Saturday and Sunday, April 2-3. This Ryder Cup-style team competition is the most popular tournament we have amongst our members and thus continues to grow in numbers every year. Last year, the Hill Team cruised to their very first victory in the history of the event. The format is always fun and part of being a team is what makes this event so special. Members must register on-line for the tournament this year at www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com.

We also will be hosting our Major’s series of One Day Member-Guests this year and our Master’s One Day Member-Guest will kick us off. The tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 8 and is a great way to bring up to three guests and showcase all of the beautiful Cordillera Ranch facilities and incredible Jack Nicklaus Signature Course.

Check with the Golf Shop at 830.336.4653 for format and details.

The Blockbuster Demo Day is set for Saturday, April 16 from 9:00am -3:00pm.

We have added a few things this year to make the event even more entertaining, including music, beer and a few apparel vendors that will help create a very festive atmosphere. We once again will have a fantastic group of manufacturers lined up to showcase the latest technology in golf clubs, and there will be special discounts on products purchased or ordered that day only so I hope you have the chance to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Complimentary sodas and hot dogs will be available so come and enjoy the day with us.

April also means the return of the Valero Texas Open here in San Antonio. The tournament has a new date this year, moving two weeks after The Masters, and will be held April 21-24. Golf San Antonio has done a terrific job with this event in their efforts to make this one of the best events on the PGA Tour. Valero continues to sponsor the event to help make it the leading tournament on the PGA Tour with over $10 million going to charity last year. Our very own Jimmy Walker will be the defending champion after his victory last year so I hope you will consider supporting him and head over to watch the best players in the world compete at the TPC San Antonio course.

The El Compadre Member-Member will take place April 29-30. For the first time in the history of the tournament we will be hosting a Women’s Division. We also have moved the tournament to a Friday-Saturday format and will have the traditional Casino Party on Saturday night at the conclusion of the event. The format will once again be a Two-Person Quota and Net BB Quota. Put this date on your calendar and come join us for a great time with good friends.

As you can see, we have some great events to participate in so come out and play some golf!

See you on the course, Marc DeWall, PGA Marc DeWall, PGA, is the Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch.

He can be reached at mdewall@cordilleraranch.com or 830.336.4653.

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What is Golf Meritage?

By Ann-Kristin Allen and Gevin Allen :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle

The Golf Meritage program is a combination of different types of group golf/ fitness classes (inside and outside at the practice range), private and semi-private golf/fitness instruction and playing lessons uniquely designed by both the golf and fitness professionals. Strength training, flexibility, endurance, power and stability are the key benefits both on and off the course.

Everybody begins their golfing experience with different abilities; we wanted to create a comprehensive program to support their efforts and their specific goals. As an example, the focus on golf instruction is very different for a beginner compared to a more experienced player.

A beginner requires a broader instruction while an experienced player might require more detailed instruction.

The same approach applies to the body mechanics. We start by performing our player development assessment created

by CEO and founder of Yoga for Golfers Katherine Roberts, along with a TPI Fitness Screening. Together this is the most beneficial screening process for our clients. For a beginner we address stability and mobility, while an experienced player might require more focus on specific

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Golf Meritage is a fusion of golf instruction and different fitness modalities. Our intention is to find each golfer’s strength and build success upon it. Golf Meritage is built upon a foundation of both of our certifications from PGA, TPI, Yoga for Golfers and the Cooper Institute. We are grateful to have worked with clients of all ages and abilities who have contributed to the most joyous part of our combined 50+ years of experience. aspects of their game such as increasing consistency, focus or distance. The body is made up of alternating patterns of stable segments connected by mobile joints. If the pattern is broken, pain, dysfunction and poor performance will occur.

This is even more important for a beginner to understand and how it applies to their body as they are learning their golf mechanics. Because the golf swing is occurring in three planes of motion and starting from a static position, we want to ensure joint integrity as they continue playing and practicing. There are also different approaches used when teaching children, young adults, men, women and the part of the population with specific medical conditions or restrictions.

We have created a medical advisory board that is available to our clients. It is very important for us and for our clients to understand that we are practicing within our realm of expertise, golf instruction and fitness. Our medical advisory board includes: • Dr. Michael T. Charlton, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in trauma and joint replacement, President and CEO of South Texas Orthopedic Specialty Group) • Dr. Patrick Doyle, DC (Chiropractic

and Sports Injury Rehabilitation, clinic doctor and owner of Hill Country Spine and Sport) • Dr. Craig Glauser, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in foot/ankle surgery, partner at Orthopedic Performance Institute) • Dr. Charles McCurley, MD (Sports and Family Medicine of Boerne) • Lisa Schlagel (Acupuncturist, Acupuncture & Natural Healing Therapies) • Karen Walton (Massage Therapist, Cordillera Ranch) Golfers who are participating in the Golf Meritage program on a regular basis experience fewer aches and pains and therefore are able to practice and play more. We are bridging golf mechanics and body mechanics in a fun and unique way which we hope will contribute to the growth of the game of golf.

Ann-Kristin Allen is the TPI Certified Fitness Professional Level 3 and Certified Yoga for Golfers Level 2, and Gevin Allen is the Director of Golf Instruction and Player Development at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. They can be reached at akallen@cordilleraranch.com and gallen@ cordilleraranch.com.

MANAGER’S MESSAGE

What Makes The Clubs of CORDILLERA RANCH SPECIAL?

By Monty Becton :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle

W

When someone asks me that question a long list of items come to mind: the natural beauty of the ranch, the quality of the facilities and amenities, the friendly nature of our residents, financial stability, the location in relation to a major metropolitan area, medical center and airport, the outstanding Boerne schools, the list goes on and on.

One of the reasons not often discussed is the quality of our Employee-Partners. One of the greatest assets in any organization is its people and it becomes even more important in the club industry. We spend a great deal of money, over $4 million annually, and time hiring, training and developing a culture within The Club to insure that we’re attracting and retaining a quality team. One of the most rewarding parts of my position is seeing the interaction between our staff and Members.

I believe the quality of the facilities and the beauty of the Hill Country draw prospects to The Ranch, but the Members and our employees keep them coming back and make being a Member here rewarding.

We have several processes in place designed to inspire our team to excel and deliver a memorable experience. Five years ago the employee recognition/activity committee developed three levels of service recognition for our employees.

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Employee Recognition Ranch Hand u Minimum 3 months of service u Has completed New Hire Orientation u Is on time and completes shifts as scheduled u Uniform worn correctly with nametag displayed at all times

Wrangler u Minimum 6 months of service u No unexcused or excessive absences from shifts u Is competent, enthusiastic and sincere when interacting

with members, their guests and others. u Works well with others and contributes to a healthy and

exciting work environment

Trail Boss u Minimum 12 months of service u Leads other employee-partners in completing tasks u Forms relationships with other departments to ensure

outstanding customer service u Helps other employee-partners learn the skills and methods of their position

THE “MAIN THINGS” AT CORDILLERA RANCH Be the friendliest and most engaging club in the world.

Create unique products, services and programming designed to provide a world-class lifestyle.

“Life is better out here.”

Deliver a financial return to our partners.

Become the employer of choice in Boerne and San Antonio.

Jared Haney and Marc DeWall, 1st Place Lip-Sync Battle Contest

Jenna Martin and Salvador Rios, 3rd Place Lip-Sync Battle Contest

Vicki and Tommy Hansen

Shane Reynolds, Rich Braune and Kevin Steager

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Philip Sloan

I’m proud to announce that during our employee recognition event in January we recognized 17 Ranch Hands (mostly new employees), 29 Wranglers and 24 Trail Bosses. Our senior supervisors and department heads aren’t eligible to participate in this recognition; their responsibility is to help define the culture within their departments and to support the growth of our team members.

This year we also added a new tradition to our recognition. Obviously we have a significant number of employees who excel and are recognized as Trail Bosses, but we also have some team members who deliver “Outstanding Service” and have made “Outstanding Contributions” that exceed even our highest level of expectations. The following individuals were presented with custom sterling silver money clips or bracelets designed exclusively for The Club by Clint Orms Engravers and Silversmiths. Both pieces also include a 10k gold C-Star as well as their initials and what they were recognized for.

For 2015 Rich Braune and Phillip Sloan were recognized for their outstanding service. I could go on and on listing what these two gentlemen mean to The Club and our Member as they are extraordinary individuals. Ernie Fernandez who is part of our golf course maintenance team is now our longest tenured employee and you’ll never catch Ernie without a smile on his face; he’s an inspiration to all of us. Vicki Hansen and Kelsey Grudle were recognized for their outstanding contributions associated with their work on the Angel Tree Project last Christmas which benefited over 150 children thanks to them teaming up with our Members to

Golf Maintenance Team

make Christmas special for those children.

Our team of department heads also recognized Charlie and David Hill for their “Outstanding Support.” Every year they make it a priority to attend our recognition event and thank the staff for their support.

We decided that this year we wanted to take the opportunity to thank the two of them for supporting us. I’ve been in the club business for almost 30 years and have had the pleasure of working for several different organizations and clubs that I enjoyed very much. I have to say, we couldn’t ask for better owners or supporters of our team. The Hills never hesitate to support our efforts and most importantly understand the financial resources it takes to operate a complex facility of this size and magnitude. We are truly unique in regards to the stability and success we’ve experienced as a club. The other two clubs located in the Hill Country who also rank in the top 10 private clubs based on the Dallas Morning News ratings both experienced ownership changes during the last 18 months and their dues are significantly higher than ours.

I’m confident you are aware of our passion for recognizing and inspiring the folks who take care of you on a daily basis. It’s also critical for all of our team members to understand what our priorities are at The Club, therefore, several years ago we created the “Main Things” at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. Beginning with our new hire orientations we emphasize the following “Main Things.” u Be the friendliest and most

engaging club in the world. u Create unique products, services

and programming designed to provide a world-class lifestyle.

“Life is better out here.” u Deliver a financial return to our partners. u Become the employer of choice in Boerne and San Antonio.

I believe there are three critical partners in our business: Employees, Members, and Financial Partners. Most clubs can excel in one or two of these areas, but balancing the needs of all three vastly increases the degree of difficulty. Our priority is to create an environment where all three partners thrive and prosper.

Members should expect good service and unique programming, employees should expect competitive wages, good benefits and a 401k package, and our financial partners should expect us to spend our money wisely and to generate enough net revenues to adequately support the operation and to insure its future success.

I would also like to thank you for participating in our recognition program by supporting the annual Christmas bonus fund. Last year your contributions generated $30,000 in funds that were distributed directly to our employee partners. Once again, our senior leaders do not participate in that fund as it’s designed to thank those employees in the front and back of the house that serve you on a daily basis.

By now you know that David and Madeline Cottrell are the front page feature of this issue. David has been one of my favorite authors and I had to pinch myself when I found out they were moving to The Ranch and joining The Club. His book Monday Morning Leadership is one of the best books I’ve ever read in regards to

the fundamentals of leadership. One of his quotes is, “Your job is not to lower the bottom by adjusting and accommodating the falling stars. You should be raising the top by recognizing and rewarding superstar behaviors.”

It’s in that spirit that I share this article and these photos with you which include some of our award recipients along with photos of our first and third place LipSync Battle winners which also took place during our employee appreciation event.

For those of you who know Jared and Marc, you missed their award-winning LipSync Battle performance of GREASE…… it was priceless. Jenna and Sal took third place in the competition with their performance of Dirty Dancing…..they had the time of their life! On behalf of our 100+ employee partners, we look forward to serving you and appreciate your support.

See you at The Club,

Monty Becton

Monty Becton is the General Manager of The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at 830.336.4024 or mbecton@cordilleraranch.com.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 55

SUMMER CAMP

SUMMER CAMP AT

CORDILLERA RANCH

By Shane Reynolds :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle

It’s time to start planning for the summer to keep kids active, playing, having fun and learning to swim.

The best summer day camps in the Hill Country are at Cordillera Ranch! Our day camps offer something for every child no matter what their interests are. From art to horses, golf and tennis, to our specialty camps like Harry Potter camp, Science camp and Outdoor Pursuits camp, our focus is on getting kids excited about learning and enjoying the different activities found at The Ranch.

Camp options depend on the child’s age and what activities they are interested in. Our campers will get to enjoy many of the outdoor amenities found at The Ranch including Swede Creek, the Guadalupe River and the Equestrian Center. Instead of watching movies or sitting in front of a computer screen, kids

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are tromping through the creek, playing games and learning to identify insects and plant species.

We offer high quality instruction and supervision in a fun atmosphere. Our key staff are Accredited Camp Directors with the American Camping Association and all of our summer camp staff receive thorough training.

Most of our camps are offered Tuesday through Friday from June 7 through August 19. While the majority of our camps are half-day, there are a few full-day camps for the older kids. For those kids who are “too old” for camp, we offer a “Counselorin-Training” or a “Wrangler-in-Training” program at the Tennis Center or the Equestrian Center.

Our primary goal at camp is to have kids learn to enjoy the many activities we offer at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. We also want to see every child at Cordillera Ranch learn to swim.

When our campers get home at the end of the day, they’ll be dirty, hungry and tired from a full day of activity. Camp participation has a lot of benefits including staying physically active, socializing and learning new skills, but when it comes down to it, camp is just plain fun.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have questions about any of our camps.

Shane Reynolds is the Recreation Director at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at outfitter@cordilleraranch.com or 210.616.6051, or the Cordillera Ranch Outfitter Center at 830.336.4823.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 57

Camp is just plain

FUN!

Here are the many camp options at Cordillera Ranch this summer!

To register for Summer Camps at Cordillera Ranch, contact Shane Reynolds at 210.616.6051 or summercamp@cordilleraranch.com.

Cordillera Cubs Golf Camp Time: 9am – 1pm; Ages: 7-14 Dates: June 7-10 & 21-24, July 6-9 & 19-22, August 2-5 The Cordillera Cubs Junior Golf Camp is a great way to introduce youngsters to the game as well as intermediate level juniors. This camp is taught by Cordillera Ranch PGA Professional staff.

Outdoor Pursuits Camp Time: 8am – 5pm; Ages: 9-14 Dates: June 28 – July 1, July 19-22, August 2-5 An adventurous camp designed for older kids, it will include daily trips off The Ranch, fishing, river kayaking and exploring.

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NEW Creative & Crafty Art Camp Time: 12:30pm – 5pm; Ages: 6 - 12 Dates: June 7 –10, August 9 –12, 16 -19 This Camp is all about being creative!

We will be learning unique art techniques while creating beautiful masterpieces using different mediums. There will be opportunities for your crafty little one to work on individual projects and to collaborate on group projects. All materials will be provided, all you need to bring is your smile and creativity!

Cowboys and Indians Horse Camp Time: 9:30am – 1:30pm; Ages: 7+ Dates: July 12-15 This is a place for boys to be boys! It includes four days of cowboy and Indian style horseback riding, roping, trail rides and outdoor lunches.

Pony Princess Horse Camp Time: 9:3am – 1:30pm; Ages: 4-7 Dates: June 14-16 This camp is for the young cowgirls who love horses and are interested in learning the basics of horseback riding.

There will be fun crafts, silly games and tons of glitter and pink! Lunch is included.

NEW Ye Haw Boys & Girls Horse Camp Time: 9:30am – 1:30pm; Ages: 6+ Dates: July 26-29 Horses, horses, horses! Horseback riding, trail rides, horsemanship, horse crafts, exciting games and more await boys and girls who enjoy being around horses and want to learn more. Lunch is included.

NEW Trail and Horsemanship Camp Time: 9am – 12:30pm; Ages: 8+ Dates: August 16 & 17 This is a great camp for beginner to intermediate riders who want to learn more about horsemanship, anatomy and horse care. We will spend the first day learning about the horse and how to ride properly.

The second day we will practice an obstacle course in the arena and host a horse show for families to watch and enjoy. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the day!

Giddy Up Horse Camp Time: 9am – 12pm; Ages: 6+ Dates: August 9-12 This camp is all about horses! Your kids will be learning fun facts about horses, practicing their riding skills, going on an adventurous trail ride and enjoying fun games and crafts.

Boy’s Camp Time: 10:30am – 3pm; Ages: 8-15 Dates: July 26-29 Boy’s Camp is about doing all the things most guys enjoy, like fishing, swimming, hiking, sports of all kinds and getting a little dirty exploring outside. It’s a great camp to experience new and fun things, make summer memories and develop relationships. No video games allowed.

Choose your ADVENTURE!

Tennis Camp Time: 10:30am – 1:30pm; Ages: 8+ Dates: June 7-10, 21-24, July 5-8, 19-22, August 2-5, 16-19 Tennis camp is for players of all ability levels. We will focus on stroke fundamentals and strategies for singles and doubles play with fun games and drills. This is an excellent way to get introduced to the game or for an experienced player to sharpen their skills!

Sports Adventure Camp Time: 10:30am - 3pm; Ages: 8-14 Dates: June 14-17, August 9-12, 16-19 This camp is for boys and girls who like sports and exploring the great outdoors, and includes visiting Swede Creek Park, Guadalupe State Park, Boerne Lake and other neat locations at Cordillera Ranch.

We will be playing sports like tennis, snag golf, softball, capture the flag, fishing and other summertime activities.

Swim Camp Time: 11am – 2pm; Ages: 4-13 Dates: June 7-10, July 12-15, August 2-5 Swim Camp is for beginner to intermediate swimmers and is all about confidence building, water safety, improving water skills and swimming fun. This is not training for the Olympics, but it is a great way to build a love for swimming. All campers will face challenges that fit their skill level, with safety as a priority!

Geocaching & Leadership Camp Time: 10:30am – 3pm; Ages: 8-16 Dates: June 21-24 We will be hunting geocache treasure using G.P.S., creativity and brains. We also will be exploring the great outdoors dealing with safety, cooking and experiencing challenges the outdoors can provide.

Discovery Camp Time: 8:30am – 12:30pm; Ages: 4-7 Dates: June 14-17, 21-24, July 5-8, 26-29, August 16-19 Discovery Camp is designed to be a fun learning experience for the young and curious trying to find their way. Focus is on motor skill challenges, team games, art and team building.

Dress Up Camp Time: 2pm - 5pm; Ages: 4-7 Dates: June 14-17, July 19-22 Dress Up Camp is about singing, dancing and playing dress up along with your favorite Disney characters from movies like Frozen, Little Mermaid, Cinderella, Snow White, etc. Campers will participate in games, art, music and videos. Wearing character gear to camp is encouraged.

Some fun costume wear will be available.

Girl’s Camp Time: 10:30am - 3pm; Ages: 8-15 Dates: June 28 – July 1 Girl’s Camp is about doing things that girls like doing. We will be swimming, hiking, exploring, geocaching, playing tennis, doing crafts and listening to music.

No video games allowed.

Science Camp Time: 10:30am - 3pm: Ages: 8-16 Dates: July 12-15, August 9-12 Science Camp will provide a hands-on experience with experiments that amaze and astonish. We will be constructing boats out of basic materials and building rockets that really fly. All materials will be provided but you will have to bring your imagination and creativity!

NEW Harry Potter Camp Time: 10:30am -2:30pm; Ages: 10+ Dates: July 26-29 Harry Potter Camp is a chance for Muggles to experience the adventures of Harry Potter and his friends! Activities will include watching movie clips and activities inspired by the beloved movies and novels.

We’ll play Wizard’s Chess and Quidditch, hunt for Horcruxes, compete in a Tri-wizard Tournament and make snacks inspired by the stories! All materials are included.

NEW Growing Up In Nature Camp Time: 10:30am -2:30pm; Ages: 5-12 Dates: June 28 – July 1, July 19-22, August 9-12 This camp is an elementary-level look at nature. We will be investigating wildlife from bugs to slugs, fish, birds, plants and mammals of all kinds. This camp will link kids to the local wildlife while using the Cordillera Ranch outdoors as our zoo.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 59

SIGNATURE VACATIONS

GOLF & ADVENTURE GET-A-WAYS WITH

THE CLUBS OF CORDILLERA RANCH

By Shane Reynolds

I recall a conversation with my father during my college days as I tried to explain to him what a career in recreation and leisure services was all about. He was a traditional blue collar man and it was difficult for him to grasp what had led me to pursue a career in outdoor recreation. I attempted to educate him on how important it is for people to have avenues to re-create themselves, spend time in the outdoors and reconnect with nature, and how important leisure is to living a balanced and healthy lifestyle. He was a golfer and thoroughly enjoyed fishing and ultimately connected the dots to understand that professionals were involved in providing these opportunities for others.

A very rewarding aspect of working in the club business and particularly at Cordillera Ranch is traveling with our members. I’m currently organizing two golf outings for our members in the late summer and fall.

Montana The first trip will be primarily a men’s group as we travel to Montana to play two of the top ten golf courses in Montana and enjoy some fly fishing with an old high school friend who owns a fly shop in Missoula and guides on many central Montana rivers. We’ll play the Northern Pines Golf Club located in Kalispell, MT as well as the Whitefish Lake Golf Club in Whitefish, MT. Northern Pines was built in 1996 and designed by Andy North (two times U.S. Open Champion) and Roger Packard. It is a combi-

60 | MARCH/APRIL 2016

nation of Links golf, native grasses and rolling fairways. The back nine follows the scenic Stillwater River. I am also working on another option to play a top private course in Montana, Iron Horse Golf Club.

In addition to some great golf, we’ll fish some outstanding water. Depending on the experience level of our participants, fishing opportunities will be on the Bitterroot River, the Big Blackfoot River, Rock Creek or the Clark Fork River.

When Montana fly fishing comes to mind most people imagine the Blackfoot River.

This iconic river is what a trout anglers dreams are made of. Deep pools, boulder gardens and staggering cliff faces make up one of the most beautiful river settings in the country, and is home to pristine populations of Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Native Bulltrout, as well as healthy Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout.

The Blackfoot River is full of fish that love to eat dry flies. The big stone flies are the big meal on the Blackfoot — Salmonflies and Golden Stones are a feast for these eager Cutthroats. Big fluffy dry flies are the summer ticket; no small flies here. Blackfoot River Fly Fishing and A River Runs Through It … what else can be said.

The fast flowing, cold and clean water of Rock Creek is home to more trout than you can cast a fly at. Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout and the Native Bull Trout all call Rock Creek home.

Dry fly fishing is how The Creek got its reputation, but during the early fall the numerous Brown Trout in the creek love to attack streamers. Big Horn Sheep, Bull Moose, Bald Eagles, Salmonflies and more trout that you have ever seen come together for a perfect fishing day in Montana. It all sounds good on paper, but you really just need to join our Cordillera Ranch group to experience it.

In addition to some of the finest golf and fishing in Montana, we’ll visit Glacier National Park — one of Mother Nature’s finest works on the planet!

Kauai Our second trip this fall will be to the Garden Island of Kauai for an unforgettable week of golf, adventure and sightseeing.

Kauai is the oldest and furthest northwest of the Hawaiian Islands and known for its amazing tropical vegetation and flowers, hidden beaches, waterfalls and the wettest spot on earth, Mt. Waialeale, which receives around 431 inches of rain per year and feeds seven rivers on Kauai.

This amazing ALL INCLUSIVE trip will be in November and includes all meals, drinks, lodging, gratuity, ground transportation, golf and adventure outings. We’ll play three of the best golf courses in Hawaii, starting with Prince Golf Course in Princeville on the north shore which has been called one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world.

With its setting above the Pacific Ocean affording views to the majestic mountains of the north shore of Kauai and the ocean, it’s any golfer’s dream to play on.

Ranked as Golf Digest’s #1 Golf Course in Hawaii and one of America’s Top 100 Greatest Courses, the Prince Golf Course is an 18-hole Championship Course situated on pristine land on the Central and Eastern Plateaus. This par- 72 course climbs slopes and careens down hills for a demanding layout that calls for golfers’ most accurate placement.

The second course we`ll play is the Kauai Lagoons Golf Club in Lihue. Featuring 18 Jack Nicklaus Signature holes, the fairways offer stunning island vistas

at every turn, creating a relaxing atmosphere in the midst of a challenging game of golf. Kauai Lagoons Golf Club has recently made enhancements to its crown jewel — the Kiele Course. The new Kiele Ocean 9 boasts more ocean holes than any other course in Hawaii with the front nine located in Mango forests and the back nine on the ocean.

When we`re not enjoying the fine resort, golf and local restaurants on Kauai, we’ll have plenty of wonderful, adventurous and unforgettable activities planned for the group. From kayaking the many rivers on Kauai, to enjoying some of the finest beaches and snorkeling in Hawaii, to visiting the islands most cherished landmarks, the trip is certain to be a full

The third and final course we`ll play is on the south shore. The outstanding Poipu Bay Golf Course is backed by lush emerald mountains and sculpted from a rolling plateau eight stories above the Pacific Ocean. Nestled among the gentle contours of Poipu Bay, you’ll discover the remains of Hawaiian heiau (places of worship) and ancient stone walls. If this does not provide enough challenge, Mother Nature presents you with one beautiful distraction after another. Even the most focused golfer will be challenged by the breathtaking views.

week of fun and relaxation. We`ll visit the famous Na Pali Coast on a sunset cruise, stop by a few waterfalls and visit the Grand Canyon of the Pacific known as Waimea Canyon.

For more details on either trip, please visit The Club website at www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com or call Shane.

Shane Reynolds is the Recreation Director. He can be reached at outfitter@ cordilleraranch.com or 210.616.6051, or the Cordillera Ranch Outfitter Center at 830.336.4823.

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FITNESS

“To achieve the highest accomplishments within the scope of our capabilities in all walks of life we must constantly strive to acquire strong, healthy bodies and develop our minds to the limits of our ability.” Joseph Pilates

EXPLORE YOUR CORE

By Kristine Cracknell :: Photography by Kelsey Grudle

With its ever-growing popularity, chances are you’ve heard someone singing the praises of Pilates. Everyone from celebrities to professional athletes to your friends and neighbors have been discovering the benefits of this mindful movement practice developed decades ago by Joseph Pilates.

Mr. Pilates sought to provide a method of training that would allow the body to age with grace, ease and efficiency. Today, many people seek out a Pilates class in search of the much-publicized flat abs or a longer, leaner look (and when performed properly and with commitment, you’ll find that!). But those benefits are just part of a much bigger picture. Under the instruction of a certified instructor, people of all shapes, sizes and levels of fitness have experienced improvements in muscular endurance, flexibility, spinal mobility, abdominal strength and body awareness with a regular Pilates practice.

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Core strength is the foundation of the Pilates Method. Core muscles are the deep stabilizing muscles of the abdomen, back and pelvic floor. When core muscles are developed, the result is a strong back, correct alignment and efficient movement.

Additionally, proficient use of core muscles though a consistent Pilates practice can correct muscular imbalance, a primary cause of injury and some chronic pains.

There are different ways to practice the Pilates Method; group versus personalized training sessions, and mat or equipment training. You may have seen those strange looking contraptions with equally strange names — the Cadillac, the Wunda Chair and the Reformer, the most commonly used Pilates apparatus.

These specialized pieces of equipment use springs, bars, straps and a pulley system, and are designed to provide a very efficient workout that develops strength,

flexibility and coordination. The equipment is used to tailor a Pilates session to a client’s individual rehabilitative and/or fitness needs. Practicing on the equipment offers a tremendous opportunity for variations and modifications, adapting appropriately for each body and making the workout accessible to the beginner while challenging the advanced Pilates student.

The same principles are incorporated into a mat workout. Pilates mat classes emphasize the same core exercise components of the equipment by using gravity, body weight and the occasional Pilates accessory provided by your instructor. The mat workout is appropriate for any healthy individual with no serious injuries.

Private equipment sessions and group mat classes are available at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. Come explore your core and discover the many benefits of Pilates!

“The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning develops the body uniformly, corrects posture, restores vitality, invigorates the mind and elevates the spirit.�

Joseph Pilates

The Benefits of Pilates: u Improved Breathing u Efficient Movement u Better Mental Focus and Improved Concentration u Enhanced Body Awareness and Body Control u Improved Muscle Strength u Improved Balance u Better Coordination u Reduced Stress u Increased Muscle Flexibility and Joint Range of Motion

Kristine Cracknell is a Comprehensively Certified Level 3 Peak Pilates Instructor. She can be reached at 210.860.7322 or pilates@cordilleraranch.com.

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COMMUNITY

WONDER

BREAD

By Bob McCullough

What wonders Agnes and David Hubbard have accomplished with bread and other foodstuffs!

Their creation of Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries (HCDBM) in October 2000 not only has eased hunger but also has alleviated suffering, fought poverty and transformed the lives of the poor and needy. The Boerne couple and their legion of volunteers target the underlying causes of poverty in eight Hill Country counties — Bexar, Kendall, Bandera, Kerr, Comal, Gillespie, Uvalde and Medina.

BM, they go through an interview process and receive an emergency food box the same day. Then, the family is matched with a trained Family Mentor volunteer from one of HCDBM’s church partners.

That Family Mentor will deliver food and other resources directly to the family twice a month, plus provide encouragement and other forms of support.

Children referred to HCBDM go

“There are an estimated 45,000 now in poverty in our service area,” says Agnes Hubbard, “and the poverty level is steadily increasing. There are people living in desperate situations right here in our backyard. They include single mothers, children, elderly persons often caring for their grandchildren, people who are disabled or suffering from chronic illnesses and working, low-income families.

They are our friends, church members, co-workers and children’s playmates.”

To tackle such a daunting challenge, the Hubbards rely on volunteers from 157 churches in the region. They train volunteers in poverty alleviation and provide partner churches with resources such as food, clothing, diapers and other necessities.

When a family in need contacts HCD-

through a separate program — Stand By Me Mentoring.

“This program serves impoverished children from kindergarten through 12th grade,” Agnes Hubbard explains. “Mentors meet with the children a minimum of once a week to deal with problems such as addiction, abuse, depression and isolation. The children also may lack food and clothing or have difficulty in school. Many are at risk of not graduating or pursuing higher education, so we provide them with academic help, life skills and spiritual enrichment.

“Through our mentoring programs, we serve approximately 2,500 children and adults yearly. We also partner with non-profit organizations, reaching 18,000 individuals through the bulk distribution of food, drinks, diapers and clothes.”

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The Hubbards cite studies showing that new relationships — not free things — are what really impact the cycle of poverty.

“With the presence of consistent loving support, families, individuals and children gain life skills and resources to go from hopelessness to hope and from dependence and need to wholeness and dependence on Christ,” David Hubbard says. “ The Hubbards have relied on financial support from foundations and donors, proceeds from the annual Vision Dinner fundraiser held every February and heavily-discounted food supplies to expand their reach throughout the Hill Country. Non-profit HCBDM successfully accomplishes its mission without any governmental funding.

When it began, HCBDM operated out of a small garage. That garage could easily fit inside the refrigerator-freezer unit of the organization’s new warehouse and office on Cascade Caverns Road in Boerne. The warehouse occupies 27,000 square feet, while the office covers 11,000 square feet. A separate 7,000-squarefoot training center provides a classroom atmosphere and an amphitheater is being built on the property for concerts and community events.

The Hubbards’ individual strengths combine to provide strong leadership for HCBDM. Both graduated from Texas State University in San Marcos and moved to Boerne in 1996. Today, Agnes serves as HCBDM executive director, while David serves as president of the organization’s board.

To learn more about HCDBM or to volunteer, visit www.hillcountrydailybread. org or call 830. 755.5200. The qualifications to become an HCBDM volunteer are rather simple — express a willingness to serve, undergo training in povertyalleviation principles and work with case managers to provide physical, emotional and spiritual support to lift individuals and families out of poverty.

Will HCDBM wonders ever cease? Not anytime soon because the Hubbards draw tremendous satisfaction from “watching lives being transformed through the love of Christ — the lives of those who come for help and the lives of volunteers and mentors as they serve the Lord.”

DEVELOPER’S CORNER

View from behind 1 green looking back up 1 fairway.

THE GOLF COURSE: 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY, PART 2

By Charlie Hill :: Photography courtesy of Cordillera Ranch

This year marks 10 years since the Nicklaus Signature Golf Course at Cordillera Ranch was completed; it’s hard to believe it’s been that long ago.

Seems like last week when the contractor was putting finishing touches on the final Zoysia grass sodding. This year’s Cordillera Ranch Living magazine offers a series of articles detailing the process for planning and building the golf course as part of the 10-year anniversary of its construction. In the prior issue we recounted the pre-development hurdles such as water and wastewater permitting and design, land planning and design concepts, and other predevelop-

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ment steps to getting the golf course started. We pick up the story in this issue where the pre-launch membership offering in late 2003 had been met with a great response and enough of a membership commitment to proceed forward with finalizing design with Jack Nicklaus’ design team and proceed with construction.

So throughout 2004, Mr. Nicklaus and his team of senior designers, including Jim Lipe, had refined their initial concept

plans into formal design and construction plans for the general contractors bidding the work. By November 2004, a general contractor had been selected to handle the overall golf course construction and the work immediately began.

Preserving the Natural Attributes In many golf course construction projects, major earthwork — cutting, filling, mass re-shaping of the landscape — is commonplace. However, the site selected at Cordillera offered such perfect natural terrain for a golf course that such massive regrading wasn’t necessary. That was important to us because minimal impact on the existing environment was such a core development philosophy for Cordillera Ranch from its beginnings in early 1997.

That essential mission of “preserving the character and natural attributes of the ranch” had been instrumental in the success of the community up to that point and was very important to carry through to the golf course construction. “The 200+ acres on which the Nicklaus Signature Course is routed was very intentionally selected to minimalize earthwork. In many major golf course construction projects it’s not uncommon to have hundreds of thousands of cubic yards of earth work; in the Cordillera Ranch golf course we were able to accomplish the vision with a fraction of that,” says Mike Sheridan, Cordillera’s golf course construction project manager.

By selecting a site that didn’t need significant earthwork, it allowed the design and construction team to preserve many of the mature oak trees and other native vegetation that are interspersed throughout the golf course. Many golf courses are faced with a major replanting of trees upon completion that take 10-15+ years to mature and look natural. This wasn’t the case with this project.

The holes laid into the terrain very naturally and as Jack Nicklaus has often pointed out, designing and building this golf course were like peeling back the layers of an onion. The golf course was already there; it just needed to be revealed.

A great example of working around the terrain to reveal the beauty that naturally existed was through the integration of existing creeks and rock outcroppings. The cart paths behind 5 green and between holes 11 and 12 are just a couple examples of how cart paths were designed to work with the natural limestone. The path behind 5 ties directly into a slab of existing limestone bedrock which formed a waterfall, while the cart path between 11 and 12 dips down and around a series of massive rock outcroppings that really give the sense of the changing terrain you’re about to encounter on holes 12 through 14.

Construction routing of cart path from hole 11 to 12.

Nicklaus’ Photographic Memory These were just a couple of areas where special care was taken in routing the golf course path. As Nicklaus would make site visits during 2005 to check on progress and make field adjustments, that’s where you really began to marvel at his attention to detail and nearly-photographic memory.

“We would pick up Jack Nicklaus at the airport for a site visit and it might have been 6-8 weeks since he’d been on site,” mentions Chris Hill, Vice President of Development at Cordillera Ranch during that time, “and within minutes of our ride to Boerne, he’d start asking incredibly detailed questions like ‘what is the status of that tree on the right on hole 15’ or ‘have they finished re-shaping the right fairway bunker on hole 10?’ — he was asking about a site we see every day and yet he has a better recollection of these specific features than many of us did. He was doing this from memory without plans in front of him; meanwhile, we’d have to pull out plan sheets to refresh.”

This was a testament not only to Jack Nicklaus’ well-documented memory but also his passion for the details of his craft.

He wasn’t building a golf course just for the fee; you truly could see he absolutely loved it. He had been described as creative in his golf game and, in his post-tour life, this was his creative outlet. You’ve heard Nicklaus talk about the exact yardage and club used from a tournament 40 years ago, like it was yesterday. That recall has undoubtedly assisted him in his golf course design career and particularly at Cordillera Ranch.

Risk and Reward: Short Par 4’s Another Nicklaus hallmark is his affinity for risk / reward situations and, more particularly, short par 4’s. Short par 4’s

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 67

Hole 14 After

could be putting or chipping for eagle.

Try to take a more conservative tee shot route down the left and you have a more difficult angle into the green — or worse, find the deep fairway bunker on the left that seems to be a magnet for overly cautious tee shots. In many ways the design strategy and targets on 14 at Cordillera Ranch are similar (though flipped) to the famous 14th at Nicklaus’ acclaimed Muirfield Village.

Hole 16

Hole 14 Before

don’t have to be drivable, but a welldesigned short par 4 invokes what is sometimes a lost art of today’s grip-itand-rip-it game: thinking and a variety of shot choices. Holes 3 and 14 at Cordillera Ranch are just a couple of the many examples of risk / reward holes here.

There are several different tee shots you can play on both of these 300 to 350yard par 4’s anywhere from a long-iron to a driver. The more aggressive line you take on 14 down the right side — even if you lay up short of the creek — leaves an easier approach to the green. Bomb a driver at the green and, if you avoid the creek guarding the left and front, you

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Though it’s one of the shortest holes on the course, hole 16 took the most care and delicate touch to build, and thus was the last hole to finish building. Even before it was built and covered with vegetation, the rugged canyon, high bluffs and natural waterfalls gave notice to the potential of how unique a golf hole could be in this setting, if done right. Again, the approach of working around the natural terrain was a driving force in the construction of this hole.

Wanting to avoid a blind tee shot, Nicklaus made subtle grade changes to the green surface and tee boxes. Other delicate tweaks were made to sight lines from each tee box so that each of the different waterfalls could be seen; even the two-tiered Blue and Silver tee boxes were designed so that the Gold tee was afforded a view of the front falls reaching the pool below.

Over the weeks and months that the design team spent carefully perfecting hole 16, the phrase “this area is too uniquely beautiful, let’s don’t screw this up!” was repeated often. That was kind of the joke; we were blessed with a gorgeous setting for that hole — make sure nothing looks contrived. Based on the perennial ranking of 16 as the Most Beautiful Hole in Texas by The Dallas Morning News, it seems the team was successful in that endeavor.

Inspecting the freshly laid sod on 15 fairway in Summer 2005.

Hole 16 After

Adding the Turf As the holes began individually receiving Nicklaus’ blessing for final shape approval in early summer of 2005, fairway grassing installation began. For cost purposes, many golf courses are sprigged, particularly when it is Bermuda grass. However, Zeon Zoysia grows a little slower, so these fairways and tees were solid-sodded to expedite the grow-in process, though significantly more expensive.

As the first rolls of this emerald green carpet were rolled out down hole 5 that summer, it was a beautiful site and gave the first true glimpse of what was to come. The contractor proceeded throughout the rest of the course until the rest of the fairways and tees were covered, which was followed by seeding the bent grass greens and sprigging the Bermuda roughs. This turf combination was fairly unique as Bermuda was still a more common fairway grass in the southern U.S. 10 years ago. Zeon Zoysia has since gained in popularity due to it needing less water for irrigation and having the absolute best surface to hit off of — the ball just seems to sit up as if on a tee. In fact, the supplier for Cordillera’s Zoysia fairways, Bladerunner Farms, was also later chosen to provide the Zoysia for the Rio golf course that’s hosting the 2016 Olympics.

The last bit of grassing was completed in January 2006 and in June 2006, after about six to twelve months of grow-in period, the golf course had a ‘soft opening’ for members only.

Hole 16 Several of the current Club staff members were here during Before those early months along with many of The Club’s current members, and it is fun to reminisce with them about how far The Club has come and how much the golf course has matured since then. As with all golf courses, it takes time for it to settle-in, soften a little and mature.

Considering that around the time this golf course opened we began a multiyear drought, our maintenance staff was tested that much more to keep the maturation process moving on track.

Following the soft opening in the summer of 2006, later that fall we completed the first phase of the Clubhouse, known as the Cabana and Pool Complex. In future issues we’ll dive into the evolution of other areas of The Club and the full Fresh Zoysia sod and Bermuda sprigs around 18 green.

Clubhouse development.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 69

STADLER CUSTOM HOMES

HOME TOUR

DREAM

ABOVE THE RAVINE

By Mauri Elbel :: Photography courtesy of Stadler Custom Homes

Located on the 15th fairway of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Cordillera Ranch, a dream-worthy home soaks in stunning Hill Country vistas from every angle.

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Overlooking the golf course with spectacular views of the Twin Sisters Peaks in the distance, this sprawling 7,300-squarefoot Stadler Custom Home takes a grand stance on its expansive corner lot graced with a natural grotto and ravine. From the beginning, making the most out of the property’s natural attributes and creating a floor plan oriented around the spectacular views remained central objectives for this concept Stadler Custom Home designed by award-winning Gustavo Ar-

redondo. “We wanted to create privacy while taking advantage of the beauty of the ravine and views of the golf course and Twin Sisters,� explains Ray Stadler, owner of Stadler Enterprises.

The Tuscan-inspired 4-bedroom, 4.5bathroom home boasts a media room, study, gym, elevator and 3-car garage with a golf cart garage and golf storage room, featuring a stone- and stucco-clad exterior and an interior rife with first-class finishes and one-of-a-kind elements that

set the stage for magnificent views.

The surrounding beauty and convenience to the golf course and amenities presented an ideal spot to build, but the location of the natural grotto and ravine crossing the 1.67-acre property presented both a challenge and an opportunity that required thoughtful solutions. Rather than fighting the natural ravine, it was incorporated into the design of the home which now features a waterfall running out of the pool and into the ravine, explains

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 71

Stadler. The design decision also spurred the idea for one of the home’s defining features: the three-level covered patio spanning the ravine, which not only facilitates greater privacy along the back side of the home but also provides crucial shading from the harsh sun. “We created the exterior patios so that each critical living space had access to the great views,” explains Stadler. “The patios were designed to be protected from the evening sun and wide open to the huge views.”

Whether taking a plunge in the negative edge pool, or lounging or entertaining on the three-level outdoor patio, Mother Nature is on constant display.

Each patio maintains a unique relationship with its surroundings –– the top level features a tongue-and-groove ceiling with rough sawn cedar accent beams, travertine flooring, a fireplace and panoramas of the rolling Hill Country landscape. The mid-level patio overlooks the pool and

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water features, functioning as an extension of the indoor living space with a spacious entertaining area equipped with ample seating and lounging, a fireplace and an outdoor kitchen. The lower patio is nested in the grotto, yielding a more natural experience which creates the perfect spot to cozy up on one of the hanging beds or hammocks suspended from the rafters.

The home’s interior, designed by Class

Covers & Colors Interior Design, Inc., is defined by warm finishes and luxurious furnishings. Rich 6” hand-scraped oak flooring flows through the house and oversized windows flood spacious rooms with natural light, inviting the eye toward the outdoors.

When guests aren’t gazing out of the windows toward the pools and peaks in the backdrop, they’re often caught looking up at the ceilings, admiring the oneof-a-kind arches and rotundas that draw

attention throughout the common areas as well as the bedrooms and bathrooms.

“In designing our homes, we try to design ceilings that are interesting to look at and unique to each home to not only provide interest to the owner but also to their guests –– they will see ceilings they have never seen before,” says Stadler.

The study’s ceiling, for example, features backlit floating decorative iron panels which tie in nicely with the scrolled

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 73

iron stair wells and wine cellar doors.

Dual master suites showcase extravagant elements ranging from overhead chandeliers and steam showers to intricate tile work and Crema Marfil marble countertops. Kitchen highlights include detailed decorative tile splashes, custom glazed cabinets with raised panels and a central island with a black antique finish that duals as a kitchen prep space.

But no matter which room you are in, it’s the view outside that grabs you from the first sign of daybreak. “Almost every morning, there’s a beautiful sunrise in full view out of these windows,” Stadler says.

BUILDING PURPOSE Stadler Custom Homes is participating in Transformation Tour of Homes which benefits five deserving local charities.

All of the profits from the five Vacation Homes Stadler is building at-cost in the luxurious master-plan development, Cascada at Canyon Lake, will be donated to each of the five selected charities: Boysville of Texas, The Arc of San Antonio, Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Foundation, Military Warriors Support Foundation and SA Food Bank.

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The Transformation Tour of Homes (April 22-24 and April 29-May 1) not only presents a great way for Stadler to give back to those in need, but the company hopes to help the five charities gain increased awareness and support. “We invite each of you to get involved,” says Ray Stadler.

“We hope the tour is something we can do each year, helping rally the community together in supporting those in need.” www.transformationhomes.org

Since 1995 Stadler Custom Homes has been building custom dream homes in San Antonio and Boerne. With a business philosophy centered on responsible and respectful customer interactions as well as professionalism and integrity among suppliers and trade partners, Stadler continues to exceed customer expectations and enhance community good will.

Details

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

830.980.4198 | Info@StadlerCustomHomes.com | StadlerCustomHomes.com SUPERIOR QUALITY, CUSTOM HOME CONSTRUCTION FROM $500,000

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Cordillera Ranch Realty Homes for Sale 1 - 209 Swede Creek 2 - 200 Riverwood 3 - 306 Rio Cordillera 4 - 320 Park Ridge 5 - Lot 4, Clubs Drive 6 - 62 Oakland Hills 7 - 1838 Clubs Drive 8 - 10 Alberi Lane 9 - 700 Clubs Drive 10 - 25 Augusta 11 - 1205 Cordillera Trace

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The #1 resource for Cordillera Ranch Real Estate

Realty

Charles Mueller

John Kuhry

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Licensed Real Estate Agent cmueller@cordilleraranch.com

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Director of Real Estate Sales bdenton@cordilleraranch.com

209 SWEDE CREEK $1,389,900

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6,036 Square Feet

MLS# 1093162

Traditional Hill Country living in this masterfully designed and appointed home by Authentic Custom Homes. 4.52 acres of mature trees and panoramic views provide a relaxing backdrop and comfortable lifestyle. Open floor plan includes spacious great room and adjoining kitchen. Custom millwork, ceiling treatments and plantation shutters complement hardwood and stone flooring throughout.

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5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage Porte-cochere connects home to oversized garage French glass doors and divided light windows provide abundant light Gourmet kitchen with commercial grade appliances Oversized rooms throughout Butler’s pantry with climate controlled wine cellar Relaxing master suite and inviting guest suite downstairs Three spacious bedrooms upstairs Outdoor, covered living includes fireplace and built-in grill Convenient to Swede Creek Park and the Guadalupe River Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

200 RIVERWOOD $1,220,000

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4,521 Square Feet

This beautiful custom home seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living with serene views and privacy! Intricate finishes and attention to detail abound in this custom home

by Burdick & Christofilis. Exceptional windows and French doors lead to inviting outdoor living and views from virtually every room. Hand troweled walls complement travertine and wood flooring, the stone fireplace surround and vaulted ceilings with rough-hewn beams. The kitchen showcases furniture-inspired glazed cabinetry and commercial grade appliances featuring a Wolf gas range, Sub-Zero refrigerator and Bosch dishwasher. The owners’ retreat features a spa-like bath, coffee bar and spacious areas. The downstairs suite-inspired guest retreat includes a sitting area, private patio and direct access to the pool. An upstairs bonus room is large enough for a game room or entertainment area and the home office/study/library is the epitome of wood craftsmanship. An outdoor oasis includes living/dining area, fireplace and custom salt water pool with hot tub.

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4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage Intricate stone and woodwork Multiple covered porches and outdoor living Resort-style pool with spa Outdoor kitchen Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

WWW.CORDILLERARANCH.COM | 830.336.3570

306 RIO CORDILLERA $1,495,000

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4,442+/- Square Feet

Garner Homes

Now under construction in the heart of the neighborhood, this French Country Transitional home includes four bedrooms and an in-home office in 4,442 +/- square feet of living space. The large wood clad windows and high ceilings flood the open plan with natural light. Handsome appointments such as rough sawn timber beams, masonry fireplaces and hand-scraped hardwood floors blend perfectly with chrome fixtures, a spa-like freestanding bath tub and stylish lighting to create an organically elegant home. Enjoy regenerative outdoor living overlooking 4.56 acres of countless hardwoods and the comforts of a pool, spa and outdoor fireplace. This convenient, central location provides great access to community parks, entrances and the Clubs Village.

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4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage Game room and study Viking appliance package Large outdoor living space

• Swimming pool and spa • Central water • February 2016 Move-in

320 PARK RIDGE $699,000

4,027 Square Feet

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MLS# 1155039

Tucked away on 3.64 acres in a secluded area of Cordillera Ranch, this recently remodeled traditional home embodies “Cordillera Casual.” A grand circular staircase welcomes you into this beautiful home and leads to the master bedroom suite and oversized bedrooms each with en suite bath. First floor main living includes multiple eating areas, a casual great room, a home office/5th bedroom and flexible living and entertainment options. A wine and coffee bar leads to the secluded master retreat that includes generous space and privacy. A therapeutic garden tub completes the ambiance.

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5 bedrooms, 5 baths, 2 car garage Recently remodeled All bedrooms feature en suite bathrooms New appliances and HVAC Wood floors, tile/travertine in primary living quarters Master full golf membership available for purchase

LOT 4, CLUBS DRIVE $2,400,000

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5,586 Square Feet

Garner Homes

This stately Italian traditional home has a commanding architectural presence and an open, comfortable floor plan.

Entering through a courtyard into the dramatic foyer looking over the pool and spa, one will find an open kitchen and living area, five bedrooms, including an attached casita, five and one-half bathrooms, a game room and an oversized outdoor living area. Luxurious features such as handsome beams and unique ceilings pair wonderfully with handscraped wood floors, a masonry fireplace and large open doors and windows.

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5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 3+-car garage Attached casita Oversized outdoor living Swimming pool with spa Viking® appliance package Master Full Golf membership available for purchase

WWW.CORDILLERARANCH.COM | 830.336.3570

62 OAKLAND HILLS $1,675,000

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5,068 Square Feet

MLS# 1125788

62 Oakland Hills is a new construction situated on 1.89 acres, making it one of the largest golf course frontage lots in Cordillera Ranch. Strategically set amongst majestic oaks, this exclusive, private setting offers exceptional views across the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and Clubs Village valley. Single story living with two building masses are separated by an entry foyer and galleries. Private family living on one side is countered with multiple gathering areas on the other, including an open great roomkitchen-dining concept and stunning game room. A comfortable guest suite is tucked away for privacy. The oversized, outdoor living area includes an outdoor kitchen and captivating surroundings that may have you spending more time outdoors, than in. An idyllic location for a future pool could add to the ambiance from the entry, great room, master suite and outdoor living area.

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5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3+ car garage Professional kitchen appliance package Oversized, covered patio Golf cart garage

1838 CLUBS DRIVE $1,050,000

• Oversized master closet • Architecture by Gustavo Arredondo • Classic construction by Stadler Custom Homes

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4,267 Square Feet

MLS# 1089152

Partners in Building recently completed this luxurious estate in the Clubs Village area of Cordillera Ranch. It is a single story Hill Country jewel with beautiful natural stone and luxury lifestyle features throughout. Modern appointments and technology combine with a spacious layout for the perfect livable home.

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4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage Single story Towering ceilings in the family room Panoramic views through the family and breakfast rooms Expansive covered patio with complete summer kitchen and fireplace Spacious master suite with lavish bathroom and enormous walk-in closet Formal dining room and private study off the foyer Open game room with adjacent media room Large wine room Intricate ceiling treatments throughout Three additional bedrooms with private bathrooms Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

The depiction of this home is an artist’s rendering. The actual features and/or designs may vary from those depicted.

10 ALBERI LANE $1,490,000

8

4,780 Square Feet

MLS#1118558

High quality construction, finest hand selected materials and immaculate attention to detail by Pasadena Builders combine to ensure a lasting legacy. Authentic Italian materials and construction methods abound including imported Italian clay tile roofs, old world sealed stucco & slab stone counters. Additional accents include wood windows, beams of Douglas Fir, solid eight – foot mahogany doors and red oak or natural travertine flooring. Cooking surrounds feature rustic cherrywood cabinets and an array of gourmet technology. Natural light permeates through architecturally refined elements.

• 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2+ car garage • Designed by Roy Braswell • Di Lusso gated enclave • Lock & leave convenience • Golf course frontage, located on hole #3 • Stunnning Guadalupe Valley views and golf course views • Closest proximity to The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch • Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase The depiction of this home is an artist’s rendering. The actual features and/or designs may vary from those depicted.

WWW.CORDILLERARANCH.COM | 830.336.3570

700 CLUBS DRIVE $2,295,000

9

5,996 Square Feet

MLS# 1115234

One of the largest estate properties in the Clubs Village at 4.39 acres, 700 Clubs offers expansive views across the Guadalupe River Valley. Panoramic views of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and an infinity pool adjacent to extensive outdoor living areas in this Burdick & Christofilis classic. Immaculate landscaping and gardens accent the outdoor experience. Throughout the open design, travertine and wood plank flooring give way to trowel finished walls that merge into uncased, hardwood doors.

Overhead, beams of Douglas fir and varied, elegant ceiling treatments provide individuality to each room. Natural light fills the home through custom windows that feature an expansive, butt-edged glass window in the breakfast room.

• 4.39-acre estate, one of the largest in Clubs Village • 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 car garage • Oversized master suite with spa bath, dual entry shower and custom closet • Outdoor fireplace and outdoor kitchen with swim up bar • Alder cabinets and with granite counters in kitchen • Wolf, Sub-Zero and Bosch appliances • Extensive wine cellar with adjacent tasting room • Full fitness room • Oversized laundry and utility room • Abundant storage • Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

25 AUGUSTA $2,295,000

10

7,299 Square Feet

MLS# 638461

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.

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4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage Enormous gourmet kitchen features Miele appliances and abundant counter space Coffee bar in master bathroom Two-sided salt water aquarium visual in both study and entry way The ultimate outdoor living area with a fireplace, cascading waterfall pool, hot tub, and a full outdoor kitchen State of the art Zenpanion electronic/audio/visual home automation system Private outdoor putting green Golf simulator room and golf cart garage Numerous water features Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

1205 CORDILLERA TRACE $2,447,500

8,469 Square Feet

11

MLS# 1152345

Timeless Mediterranean architecture set on 5.46 hardwood studded acres with rear orientation to the north and commanding, long views across the Guadalupe River Valley. Open floorplan with spacious rooms including stately master suite, great room concept encompassing living, dining, kitchen and breakfast and a trophy room to die for. Attached casita includes galley kitchen, living area and bedroom with en suite bath. Resort-style pool area with attached spa, LED lighting, fire pit, and beautifully landscaped, spacious covered and open air entertainment areas provide the perfect exclamation point to this rare, must-see estate.

• 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, 5 car garage • Floorings of stained concrete, travertine and wood • Wood elements throughout include Douglas Fir architectural beams, mesquite floors and alder cabinets • Resort-style pool area with great access from all areas of the home • Wolf, Sub-Zero and Bosch appliances • Large windows for generous natural light and beautiful view corridors • Fireplaces in great room, master suite and trophy room • Additional spaces include kids’ playroom, media room, two home offices and oversized pantries • Centrally located for great access to all Cordillera Ranch amenities and access points

WWW.CORDILLERARANCH.COM | 830.336.3570

ElegantandInteriors

Double R Drygoods

Exclusive retailer of Bella Notte Linens

Full Design Services Offered Some of Our Distinguished Furniture Lines Include: Century Furniture, Hancock & Moore, Marge Carson, Theodore Alexander, Maitland Smith, Henredon, and more New Store Location in Boerne, Elegant Interiors and Double R Drygoods 412 River Rd., Boerne, Texas 78006 | 830-331-2412 Fredericksburg Location, Double R Drygoods 237 1/2 E. Main, Fredericksburg, Texas 78624 | 830-997-9438

FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE & MAINTENANCE NEEDS Lawn and Landscape Maintenance

Outdoor Kitchens

Landscape Installation

Outdoor Fireplaces

Tree Trimming

Fire Pits

Irrigation Installation And Repair

All Types of Flagstone Patios

All Types of Brush Removal

All Types of Fencing

Custom Outdoor Living Areas

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CORDILLERA RANCH LIVING

808 Hwy 46 East Boerne, Texas 78006

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