Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine: November-December 2022

EDIBLE MEMORIES

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Pastry Team excels at creating personalized and delicious confections that are centerpieces for members’ and their guests’ most meaningful celebrations.

CAST AND BLAST: A TEXAS PASTIME Fall in Texas, for many families, means carrying on hunting traditions or beginning new ones, and the Club’s Outfitter Center has curated trips for outdoor enthusiasts.

IN THE COMMUNITY Service is at the heart of Cordillera Ranch and through the generosity of its residents, Cordillera Cares continues to promote the welfare of others.

One of the more common questions we hear from people considering a move to Cordillera Ranch is “what’s the typical demographic in Cor dillera Ranch — is it retirees or young families?” to which I often reply: “Yes.” That’s one of the great things about this community. We have a diverse array of young families with kids in school as well as empty nest er retirees, so all ranges of age groups can find social circles to enjoy. This issue of the magazine actually highlights that mix, with our cover feature, Susie and John Long, who moved here to “inch” towards retir ing from successful accounting careers yet can hang on the golf course with the youth movement, as John routinely competes with the best players in the Club (of all ages) — he’s regularly in the mix in the Men’s Club Championship and has multiple Senior Club Championship titles to his name. In fact, this mix of age groups was spotlighted in the recent Men’s Club Championship as John finished 2nd to 18-year-old Price Hill, and ahead of other younger competitors.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable uptick in the number of young families moving to the area, attracted by the highly-rated Boerne ISD schools and the endless opportunities for outdoor fun with kids (see the parks article on page 68). The Outdoors feature in this issue (page 52) describes the benefits of connecting kids with horses and the life skills, confidence and personal growth the equestrian world provides. Another attraction to the area is the broad mix of youth sports programs from baseball, basketball and soccer to volleyball, lacrosse and others as detailed on page 62.

The list goes on, but it’s safe to say that this area is not attractive to just one demographic set, which is also why we’ve seen such a strong trend in the “multi-generational” families moving to the area; the young families with kids in school and their grandparents both moving here to be near each other while also being able to enjoy activities suited to each. Hopefully, you’re enjoying all that Cordillera Ranch and the sur rounding area have to offer!

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@cordilleraranch.com

EDITOR Trisha Doucette trisha@travelingblender.com

EDITORIAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Brianna Botine, Marc DeWall, Sara Hill, Shane Reynolds, Brynn Steele

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Tim Shaw – The Shaw Creative theshawcreative@me.com

CORDILLERA RANCH SALES 830.336.3570 info@cordilleraranch.com

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch 830.336.9000

Feature article photography by David Teran Photography 210.650.2428 :: www.davidteran.com

Charlie Hill President Cordillera Ranch

Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch De velopment 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. 28 Cordillera Trace, Boerne, Texas 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2022. No responsibility is assumed for un solicited submissions. Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or re turned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The content contained does not necessar ily reflect the opinions and views of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation, Traveling Blender, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents. Cordillera Ranch Develop ment Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

The ClubhouseThe Clubhouse

The Clubhouse provides spectacular settings for special occasions, cocktails, entertaining guests and enjoying family dinners. To-Go orders are available by calling the Club receptionist.

C-STAR RANCH MENU

Available in the Main Dining Room, Twin Sisters Lounge and Twin Sisters Patio

Tuesday-Thursday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, 5:00pm to 9:00pm

Friday-Saturday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, 5:00pm to 10:00pm

Sunday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, 5:00pm to 8:00pm

Dining from 2:00pm to 5:00pm is available in the Twin Sisters Lounge and Twin Sisters Patio.

Thursday-Saturday Evenings

SIGNATURE DINING MENU

BREAKFAST MENU

Available in the Main Dining Room, Saturday-Sunday, 9:00am to 2:00pm Available in the Twin Sisters Lounge, Saturday-Sunday, 11:00am-2:00pm

Wednesday Evenings

CORDILLERA RANCH GOLD RUSH, PRIME RIB BUFFET AND WEEKLY WINE PICKS

Every Wednesday we 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 is added to the next week’s drawing if the winner is not present. Our Prime Rib Buffet is the perfect accompaniment for Jeffrey’s wine picks of the week. Sample new wines to purchase and enjoy that evening or to take home.

Tuesdays, Thursdays, Sundays FAMILY MEALS TO-GO

Join us for dinner as we spotlight our chef’s finest steak and seafood features, delivering a fine dining experience. Friday evenings bring special fresh catch and oyster features along with live entertainment from 6:30 to 9:30pm. Advance reservations are strongly suggested. The Signature Dining Menu is available in the Main Dining Room, Twin Sisters Lounge and Twin Sisters Patio from 5:00 to 10:00pm.

Delicious family dinners are a convenient and affordable way to enjoy a variety of menu options that feed up to four people for $44.95++. Place orders through the Club receptionist or Cordillera Ranch Mobile App for curbside pick-up or delivery, 11:00am to 8:00pm.

BUTCHER SHOP

Our HeartBrand-certified Akaushi beef is full of marbelization and flavor. Choose from ribeyes, strips, hamburger patties and more, and place orders through the Club receptionist.

For dining and special event reservations, please contact the Club receptionist at 830.336.9000 or receptionist@cordilleraranch.com, or you may reserve your spot through the Cordillera Ranch mobile app or online at Clubsofcordilleraranch.com.

For golf events, please contact Camille Ferguson at 830.336.9165 or cferguson@cordilleraranch.com. For tennis events, please contact the Tennis Club at 830.336.4823.

EVENTS EVENTS

November 10 :: Honig Wine Dinner

Time: 6:30 to 9:30pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Join us for an intimate dinner featuring wines from Honig Vineyard and Winery paired with a custom menu crafted by Executive Chef Isaac Cantu and his culinary team.

November 22 :: Bubbles and Big Reds

Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

This annual event will feature more than 40 wines — Bubbles and Big Reds — to taste before purchasing for the holiday season while enjoying festive music and food.

November 24 ::

Thanksgiving Day Hours of Operation

Main Dining Room: 11:00am to 2:00pm (Thanksgiving Day Brunch, reservations required), To-Go Dining available 8:00am to 5:00pm

Twin Sisters: Closed for Thanksgiving Brunch

Men’s Grill: 7:00am to 3:00pm

Golf Shop: 7:00am to 3:00pm, Golf Carts in by 2:30pm Tennis: Closed Fitness Center: 5:30am to 3:00pm Kids Club: Closed

November 24 :: Thanksgiving Day Brunch

Time: Reserved seating is available from 11:00am to 2:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

In honor of Thanksgiving, we will be hosting a holiday-themed brunch to enjoy with live music by Bernie Martini.

November 25 :: Turkey Trot

Time: 9:30am Registration Opens / 10:00am Run or Walk Begins

Location: Meet at the Clubhouse

Have too much to eat during your Thanksgiving feast? Bring the family to trot or stroll in our annual 5k race around the neighborhood! We will have fun merchandise upon arrival and assorted healthy breakfast food at the end of the race. All ages are welcome, including pets and strollers!

November 30 :: Ugly Christmas Sweater Gold Rush

/ Blue Santa Fundraiser

Time: 5:00 to 9:00pm

Location: Clubhouse

Outdo Clark Griswold and arrive in your most outrageous Christmas apparel for our annual Ugly Sweater Gold Rush evening. You could be one of the 1st, 2nd or 3rd place contest winners! Cordillera Cares will be partnering with the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office BLUE SANTA program to fill stockings for children! Please reach out to Vicki Hansen at vhansen@cordilleraranch.com to volunteer or donate.

December 10 :: Breakfast With Santa

Time: Reserved seating at 9:00 and 11:00am

Location: Main Dining Room

Picture Fee: $15 for the first photo; $5 for each additional photo

Please join us for a jolly good time when Santa joins us for breakfast at the Clubhouse. Be sure to dress in your Christmas best to have your pictures taken while you tell Santa what is on your wish list. Children will also enjoy making Christmas crafts and writing letters to Santa in the front living room, while parents are entertained by Peter Gloria.

December 17 :: Gingerbread House Decorating

Time: Reserved seating at 9:00am and 12:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

It’s time for our annual holiday Gingerbread House Decorating Party! We will provide everything you need: assembled gingerbread houses, icing and candies to decorate and, best of all, we will take care of the cleanup! Drinks, a brunch buffet and holiday treats are also included.

December 22 :: Wine Dinner TBA

Time: 6:30 to 9:30pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Join us for an intimate dinner featuring remarkable wines paired with a custom menu crafted by Executive Chef Isaac Cantu and his culinary team.

December 24 :: Christmas Eve Hours of Operation

Main Dining Room: Closed

Pre-ordered Christmas dinners will be available for pick-up every 15 minutes from 10:00am to 1:30pm

Twin Sisters: 9:00am to 3:00pm

Men’s Grille: 7:00am to 3:00pm Golf Shop: 7:00am to 3:00pm, Golf Carts in by 2:30pm Tennis: 9:00am to 2:00pm Fitness Center: 5:30am to 3:00pm Kids Club: Closed

December 25-26 :: The Clubs will be closed

December 31 :: New Year’s Eve Hours of Operation

Main Dining: 9:00am to 2:00pm, 5:30 to 10:00pm (Prix Fixe Menu)

Twin Sisters Lounge: 11:00am to 10:00pm (Limited Ranch Menu, only) Golf Shop: 7:00am to 6:00pm

December 31 :: New Year’s Eve Dinner

Time: Reserved seating every 30 minutes beginning at 5:30 to 8:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Wrap up 2022 with an exquisite dining experience at the Club. Enjoy a prix fixe menu and entertainment by a jazz quartet.

January 1-2 :: The Clubs will be closed

*All Club events require advance reservations with a 48-hour cancellation policy.*

Photos by Club Photographer Kelsey Grudle

BRYNN STEELE

Realty Sales & Marketing Assistant 830.336.3570 / bsteele@cordilleraranch.com

HOMETOWN: Lancaster, South Carolina

FAMILY MEMBERS: My husband, Alex, and our dog, Trinity

HOW DID YOU BECOME EMPLOYED AT CORDILLERA RANCH?

My husband is active duty, so we were relocated here in May of 2022. I have been interested in expanding my skills into the real estate industry, so when I found the job listing online, I was very eager to apply!

WHAT PAST WORK HISTORY PREPARED YOU FOR THIS POSITION?

I worked as an administrative assistant for a wedding venue in my hometown for two years, and while working there I obtained skills in marketing, contract drafting and interacting with the public. I feel that my time there immensely helped prepare me for my position here at Cordillera Ranch.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT WORKING AT CORDILLERA RANCH?

My position allows me to dip my feet into several different areas of Cordillera, and because of this I am constantly learning and growing as a professional! I also love that the staff here is like a family. They have been so nice and inclusive, which was exactly what I needed since moving here.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?

I enjoy reading and taking my dog on walks and rides to new places.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SMELL, AND WHY?

Breakfast food! I could eat breakfast food for every meal and never get tired of it! The smell of bacon and pancakes always puts me in a better mood.

IF YOU COULD TIME TRAVEL, WHERE WOULD YOU GO?

Where wouldn’t I go? I would go see the Roman Empire at its strongest and at its fall. I would go see the Great Pyramid being built. I would go see the Great Wall of China being built. I would go back to the Roaring 20’s and see if I like flapper dresses. I would go back to the Victorian age and try on the huge dresses. I would go back and meet every major histori cal figure I could. As long as I could get back to present day, I would time travel everywhere.

WITH HOLIDAYS UPON US, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION?

I have several, most of which have not been recontinued since the beginning of Covid unfortunately. For Thanksgiving, all of the kids in the family would go outside after lunch and play

tag football together. My favorite holiday is Christmas with the colors, the music, the food, but most especially the decora tions. Christmas makes me so happy! On Christmas Eve, our entire family would go with the rest of our church family to sing carols to the older members of the church. And on Christmas morning, our family would gather at my parents’ house, have brunch and open presents.

IF A GENIE GRANTED YOU THREE WISHES, WHAT WOULD THEY BE?

My first wish would be unlimited free airplane tickets to wher ever I wanted to go, whenever I wanted. Second wish, unlimited space for books! And my third wish would be that all shelter dogs found a good and loving home.

AS A CHILD, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

Growing up, I was always considered very tall and slender, and was told by many people that I could be a model. Well, that stuck for a few years, and I did do some local modeling jobs, but as I grew up, I realized that I was not at all cut out for that industry!

WHO WOULD YOUR IDEAL GUESTS AT A DINNER PARTY BE?

Queen Elizabeth, Cleopatra and the Goddess Athena. Imagine the conversations and things I could learn!

FAVORITE QUOTE OR MOTTO?

“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem.” – Jack Sparrow, Pirates of the Caribbean.

WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

The biggest item on my bucket list is to visit all fifty states! And I do not count driving straight through or flying into an airport.

PROJECT INFORMATION

FROM DESERT TO DRIVING RANGE SUSIE AND JOHN LONG

By Jenny Jurica :: Photography by David Teran with personal photos from the Longs

“When we drove through the front gate, saw the incredible views, played the golf course and then visited with the welcoming members, we knew we had found our new home,” said John.

John and Susie were both raised in Carlsbad, New Mexico. While John was playing Little League baseball and high school golf, Susie was growing up on the family farm where she was active in 4-H and the band while in school. Both were raised by mem bers of “The Greatest Generation” (John’s father served in the U.S. Army in France during World War II and Susie’s father was a POW in China and Japan for five years after Pearl Harbor), who instilled the importance of hard work and integrity in their children. This emphasis on hard work is ultimately what led John and Susie to each find part-time work, as well as love, at the neighborhood Kentucky Fried Chicken while in high school. It was there that they met — over a bucket of fried chicken — and fell in love, thus beginning a decades-long love affair.

After high school, both John and Susie attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM. John received his B.B.A. in Accounting and Susie received her B.B.A. in Finance and they both became Certified Public Accountants. In 2011, they both celebrat

John and Susie knew that Cordillera Ranch was home shortly after their first visit.

ed their inductions into the New Mexico State University’s College of Business Hall of Fame for their service to the university — John served 15 years on the NMSU Foundation board of directors, Susie served on the President’s Associates board of directors, and both were on the College of Business Advisory Council.

Upon graduating from college in 1977, the couple moved slightly east, landing in El Paso, where they both built successful careers in accounting and finance. It was also there in El Paso that the couple raised their son, Kevin, who was born in 1983.

Life was good. As active members of the El Paso Country Club for more than 30 years, Susie was part of the Tuesday Ladies Golf Association and competed in many intercity tournaments.

John studied under Bill Eschenbrenner, one of the first PGA Master Professionals, and has seen and played with golfers who became mainstays of the PGA Tour.

But, after 40 years and with the siren song of retirement calling, John and Susie were ready to part with the dusty, arid desert climate and continue a bit farther east, stumbling upon

the Texas Hill Country and its scenic views in the process. Susie retired from her career in 2005 but maintained her CPA license and used her knowledge in various volunteer positions within the El Paso and Las Cruces communities.

The couple knew that they wanted to retire somewhere where golf carts were the norm and where they could enjoy the game several times a week. “Golf was a big thing [when deciding where to retire], but I also wanted to be able to drive my cart to the course and to visit neighbors,” explained Susie. John began researching high-end golf communities in the early 2010s. It only took one visit to Cordillera Ranch to seal the deal for the couple, and in 2015, they bought a lot in The Clubs area of the neigh borhood and began building their dream home.

The couple designed their home in Cordillera Ranch to re flect, not only the style of the Texas Hill Country, but also their appreciation for a casual environment. “It is a very different style of home in El Paso than it is here,” said Susie of their transition from the architecture of far West Texas. “We were quite taken

Upper Left: Susie’s first half marathon with trainer and friend Paula Mitchell. Upper Right: Maui. Lower Left: St. Andrews, John on the Swilcan Bridge on #18, where the golf legends stand! Lower Right: John and Bill Eschenbrenner.

by the beautiful rock and the home styles of the Hill Country. On the outside, our home looks kind of Mediterranean, but it’s a blend of our tastes on the inside…more casual than ornate, and laid out in such a way to take advantage of the views of the lot. We love our porches for enjoying the scenery,” she added.

These days, John continues to inch ever more closely to retire ment, as he currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer and Mergers & Acquisitions Integration Lead for HUB Texas (a large insurance broker) — a position that affords him the opportunity to reside in central Texas while traveling to other HUB offices within the state.

The couple’s son, Kevin, now lives in San Antonio, after enjoying an exciting career in the television and film industry. Kevin worked as a film and TV editor on a variety of projects — the penultimate being a collaboration with Academy Award-winner Cameron Crowe on the Elton John documentary, “The Union,” which opened the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival and aired on HBO. He left the television and film industry in 2017 to pursue a career in IT, where he works for H-E-B as a Salesforce Software Developer.

While Hawaii (specifically, Kauai and Maui) is a favorite annual vacation spot for the couple, John and Susie recently went on a tour of Napa Valley with their Cordillera Ranch neighbors this past July and had the time of their lives. “We had a blast! Jeff Cohen and Debbie Pepper made the trip special and we made new friends. Jeff has helped us expand our knowledge and enjoyment of wine,” said John of the wine trip, one of the Signature Vacations coordinated by The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. John also picked up a new party trick on the trip — sabering a Champagne bottle!

Though the Napa trip was all about wine, one of the Longs’ favorite reasons for travel involves golf. The couple has enjoyed visits to Scotland and Ireland to play golf. They also attended the 144th Open at St. Andrews and have been to two U.S. Opens and a practice round at the Masters.

Obviously, golf is the number one sport played in the Long home, as is evident by their trophy case: Susie won the 2020 Low Net Ladies Club Championship and John is a proud two-time Senior Club Champion, both annual tournaments at

Cordillera. They even have their own “Championship Rock” in their backyard, gifted by a thoughtful neighbor, with plenty of room to add on more victories! However, they enjoy staying fit and active with other activities, as well.

John has practiced martial arts for 15 years and has earned his second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He has also studied under a master in a variety of martial and internal arts, with a specialty of John’s being Japanese samurai sword.

Susie has become an avid runner, thanks to the help of Cordillera neighbor Paula Mitchell, who recruited her to join a beginner’s running group in 2018. Having never run before, Su sie trained for a year in order to prepare for the ultimate goal of completing a half marathon in January of 2019. Since taking up running, Susie has run three 5Ks, seven 10Ks and six half mar athons, and runs several times a week with the Cordillera Sole Sisters running group. While she maintains that running a full marathon is absolutely NOT on her “bucket list,” she has plans to run yet another half marathon in December of this year.

Back at home, downtime for John usually involves landscap ing and listening to his “old-school” classic rock albums — that range from Fleetwood Mac to Iron Butterfly — surrounded by Ben Hogan memorabilia. Susie is a talented quilter with the patience and dexterity to complete the most intricate patterns.

Inspiration runs deep in the Long family, as this successful couple has worked hard and solidly earned their retreat at Cordillera Ranch. “My inspiration is to do my best at everything I do — business, golf, martial arts, etc. I’m competitive and don’t settle for anything less than 100% effort,” John said.

Susie finds herself inspired by trying and learning new things — even if they’re not always an immediate hit. “We tried kayak ing down the river recently. I made it, but it’s not something that I want to repeat!” laughed Susie. “But getting outside of my comfort zone definitely inspires me,” she added.

That “comfort zone” is actually pretty inspiring. Now that John and Susie have settled into their new home and their new lives at Cordillera Ranch, it’s all vibrant, watercolor Texas Hill Country sunrises, sunsets, golf course greens and birdies from here.

Left: Positano. Right: Pinehurst.

BATTLE FOR THETHE CORDILLERA CUP 2022 TEAMS HILL AND NORTHINGTON MEET AGAIN FOR A FRIENDLY FACE-OFF.

By Corey Robertson, Director of Golf

The annual Cordillera Cup was held on Saturday and Sunday, October 1 and 2. This is a Ryder Cup-style event between Team Hill and Team Northington that started in 2007. David Hill and Mac Northington have been friends since their college days at the University of Texas and as you can imagine, there’s been plenty of grudge matches between the two. After college and later in their careers, they partnered together to develop Cordillera Ranch. In 2007, the Cordillera Cup was born and built on a foundation of competition and camaraderie with a little trash talking mixed-in for good measure. Team Northington was dominant in the early years of the annual tournament but as of late, Team Hill has been

on a run as they’ve won the last two competitions and four out of the last seven, going into this year’s event.

The festivities started on the Friday before with the Pairings Par ty. We utilized a new venue for this gathering — the shaded area between #4 and #7 greens. Players received their uniforms from Turtleson and we unleashed a few surprises. With a little help from some unnamed sources, we gathered old photos of David and Mac and CPG made the players a short kick-off video. Chef Isaac and his team prepared an awesome meal and Stu and his agronomy team set up the Tree Bar — it’s safe to say, nobody left hungry or thirsty. As per tradition, the captains — David Hill and

CordilleraRanchLiving.com

Mac Northington — gave their team a quick pep-talk and we got to see their “Punch-Out” abilities with the XE747.

In addition to the new venue, we made a few other tweaks to this event: we utilized tee times both days and moved the food onto the golf course. These changes encouraged players to stay on the course to root-on their teammates after their match was finished.

On Saturday morning, Team Hill and Team Northington played a fourball (best ball) match on the front nine and a four somes (alternate shot) match on the back nine. Team Northing ton took a 2-point lead after the first session, but they split the second session. This left Team Northington with a 2-point lead heading into the singles matches on Sunday.

On Sunday, the early singles matches were pretty much split by Team Hill and Team Northington until about halfway through...this is when Team Hill hit the boosters. Team North ington would only earn 4.5 points from here leading to a certain victory for Team Hill. The 2022 tally — Hill 47.5 vs Northington 36.5 — marks the third straight win for Team Hill leaving the overall match record as five to 11. Team Hill still has a lot of ground to make up in the overall match, but as CPG said, “It’s now somewhat more competitive.”

Corey Roberson is the Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at croberson@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.4653.

2022 MEN’S

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

By Corey Roberson, Director of Golf

The 2022 Men’s Club Championship was held Friday through Sunday, September 16 to 18. We had 27 men in the competi tion — nine of those guys were competing in the Champion ship Flight and the other 18 were playing in a net competition. The Championship Flight started on Friday and the scores were fairly tight after Day 1. That changed on Day 2 when the 2022 Junior Club Champion, Price Hill, fired a blistering 71 with a tough course setup to take a 13-shot lead. Three-time Club Champion, Phillip Earnest, didn’t have his best day with an 85 and two-time Senior Club Champion, John Long, hung in there with a 78. While this was a bit of a blow-out, Price also had the low round on Sunday with a 76 to win by 18-shots. There was a tight battle for 2nd place where John edged out Phillip by 2-shots. Congratulations to our 2022 Men’s Club Champion, Price Hill, and a big thank you to all the guys who competed in

the Championship Flight — Jack Dempsey, Ron Trevino, Aldon Williams, Barry Harkness, Jim Puetz and Todd Hampton. Play ing our golf course from 7,000 yards with tough hole locations and fast greens is no easy feat!

In the net competition, Will Hill (no relation to Price) threw down a commanding performance firing rounds of 69-74 to take the net title. He finished 5-shots ahead of Bryan Werner who fired rounds of 75-73. Brad Larsen and Jeff Smith tied at 6-over par and Brad won the scorecard playoff to take 4th place with Jeff finishing in 5th. Roy Sachs shot rounds of 77-75 to finish in solo 6th at 8-over par.

Corey Roberson is the Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at croberson@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.4653.

PRICE HILL (LEFT) - 2022 MEN’S CLUB CHAMPION WILL HILL (RIGHT) - 2022 MEN’S NET CHAMPION

2022 LADIES’

CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

By Corey Roberson, Director of Golf

The 2022 Ladies’ Club Championship was held on Wednesday and Thursday, September 14 and 15, where 20 ladies competed for the overall championship. In the gross competition, the race was tight after Day 1, as Karla Wright and Liza Robinson had a 1-shot lead over Yana Dommert and Sue Bielstein. A few other ladies — Maria Sayers, Jamie Angelich and Kam Gossett — were hot on their heels. Half-way through the back nine on Thursday, the race was narrowed to Liza, Yana and Maria. Yana stumbled out of contention on #13 and Liza made a costly double on #15, which gave Maria a 1-shot lead at the time. Maria would go on to make a good par on #16 but ran into trouble on #17 and made double. Liza made par on #16 and hit two great shots on #17 setting up a 2-putt par. Standing on the 18th tee, Liza had a 1-shot lead. At this point, Maria was just short of the green on #18 and with a missed up-and-down, made bogey. Liza hit two

more beautiful shots setting up a routine par to capture the 2022 Ladies’ Club Championship by 2-shots over Maria and 6-shots over Yana and Sue. We did a scorecard playoff to break the tie for 3rd place between Yana and Sue — Yana won the playoff.

In the net competition, Jamie Angelich started Thursday with a 6-shot lead and extended that to an 8-shot lead by the day’s end to take the net title! With rounds of 64-69, Jamie was victo rious over Beckie Russi who is a tough competitor and carded rounds of 71-70. Coming in 3rd place, Karla Wright posted rounds of 70-75.

Thank you to all of our ladies who competed in the event!

Corey Roberson is the Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at croberson@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.4653.

LIZA ROBINSON (LEFT) - 2022 LADIES’ CLUB CHAMPION JAMIE ANGELICH (RIGHT) - 2022 LADIES’ NET CHAMPION

AGRONOMY

SEASONSBY THE

By Stu Rowland, Director of Agronomy

There’s a feeling that you get after you’ve been through something physically challenging or mentally draining, and you finally get to shower and sit down and take a deep breath. The feeling of being relaxed and refreshed yet on the edge of readiness for the next thing — that is fall for the Agronomy team. Despite the long hard summer of heat and drought, fall has arrived and yes, it really does have that feeling as if we just emerged from a brisk shower and are readied for the next game.

This summer no doubt had challeng es with exceptional drought conditions. Albeit a couple of rogue showers hit Cordillera Ranch in August, we are still 32 inches of rain behind for the year. That posed several challenges for the team as our resources were limited more than usual. It’s a completely ironic state; when we need rain, our resources are drying up and when our resources are full, it means it probably has been raining. We did make use of as much technology as possi ble in using products that help the soil re tain moisture and dialing in our irrigation controls to make sure we were as efficient

as possible with every irrigation cycle. We were “all hands-on deck” this summer as nearly every team member found themselves with a hose watering selec tive spots to make sure we protected as much turf as possible. Moving into the fall we are still ever focused, as the drought continues, to growing good turf into the dormant season of winter. The better the stand of turf in the fall always translates into good conditions in the spring.

The crisp mornings of the fall months do lend to the excitement of being outdoors each day but we also have excitement for each winter season as we prepare to un

dertake new projects and prepare for the next season of golf. We’ve talked before about the current season impacting the next. This excites us as we prepare now for an exceptional spring. The agronomy team will be focused as always on ways to improve and make the experience better. This winter is no different as we aim to renovate more landscaped areas around tees and comfort stations; clear areas of native as we’ve practiced before near and in our dry creeks and water features; and continue our root pruning practices as well as trimming trees that interfere with play and irrigation. We also spend much time and effort on areas of improvement that not everyone sees yet still impacts our conditions. In October we completed a new nursery project near the Agronomy facility. This new zoysia nursery will allow us to make repairs and replace turf where needed immediately without the need to purchase turf from offsite. We will maintain it the same as a tee or fairway so that any repairs on the course are seamless and instant. It also gives us a place to test and experiment practices that we can replicate on the course.

In any operation, there are many moving parts that not everyone sees. This spring we are excited as we plan to host a “Behind-the-Scenes Tour.” We will be taking groups of members to tour the Agronomy facility and all that goes into providing exceptional turf conditions for daily play. There you will see the various and precise technologies that go into applying irrigation efficiently, sharpening mowers that mow below 1/10th of an inch, the organization and scheduling of an Agronomy team and much more. Look for the announcement after the new year. Yes, fall and the holiday season have given us a bit of a respite from the grue ling summer and have energized us to dive right back into making it better. We hope you enjoy the fall golf season as much as we do and we wish you and your families a very blessed holiday season.

Stu Rowland is the Director of Agronomy at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at srowland@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.3710.

The Bryan Brothers, Mike and Bob Bryan

THE ALL AMERICAN CUP TEAM TENNIS TOURNAMENT

November 11-13 at the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio

Courtesy of The All American Tennis Cup and Joe De Luna, Director of Tennis

In its inaugural year, the All American Cup will welcome top US players and benefit the Bush ACE Outreach Program, an organization that was formed at the Bush Tennis Center in Midland, TX to advise, counsel and encourage (ACE) area youth by connecting positive role models with elementary-aged children through the sportof tennis. Beginning in San Antonio, the event will alternate years with Austin.

The All American Cup will feature two teams consisting of five players. The Bryan Brothers, the winningest doubles team in ATP Tour history, will serve as captains and face off in the three-day team event. The USA West team will be captained by Mike Bryan and led by Taylor Fritz, the number one ranked American. Fritz will be joined by team mates Marcos Giron, Jenson Brooksby, Mackenzie McDonald and Ste ve Johnson. The USA East team will be captained by Bob Bryan and headed up by former top 10 ATP Tour star, John Isner. Frances Tiafoe, Jack Sock, Denis Kudla and J.J. Wolf will join Isner on the team. The teams will compete in both singles and doubles matches.

The Tennis Channel will broadcast the All American Cup to over 61 million households throughout the United States.

“Bob and I are excited to return to San Antonio and honored to captain the All American Cup. San Antonio is a great tennis town and we have enjoyed playing here over the last 20 years,” said Mike Bry an. “This will be a new experience competing against each other but I know everyone will be battling to win the cup.”

Tickets can be purchased at AllAmericanTennisCup.com or at www.ticketmaster.com.

The Tennis Club at Cordillera Ranch is thrilled to in troduce the new tennis and pickleball coach, Alejandro Chong. Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Alejandro represented his native country, accomplishing great results in ITF tournaments as well as national tournaments. He moved to Arkadelphia, Arkansas at age 17 to play college tennis at Ouachita Baptist University and helped OBU become Top 5 in the NCAA II rankings. He loved playing doubles as well as singles at Ouachita.

His coaching career began at Trophy Club Country Club in 2007. In 2012 he followed a different path for the next few years, joining the Southlake Tennis Center team before returning to Trophy Club Country Club in 2016 to run the activities and programs. Alejandro was promoted to Head Tennis Professional/Co-Director of Racquet Sports at Trophy Club in 2017. Early in 2021, he became the Director of Racquet Sports at Hackberry Creek Country Club, implementing and increasing all tennis and pickle ball programs and activities.

Alejandro has been married to Brooke Chong for six years. They love playing tennis and pickleball with each other in their free time. Brooke is currently attending UT Health San Antonio as a medical student.

Other hobbies include playing soccer and watching movies, and his favorite foods include Italian and Venezue lan. Alejandro is also fluent in English and Spanish.

WEST TEAM

Mike Bryan, Captain Taylor Fritz Marcos Giron Jenson Brooksby Mackenzie McDonald Steve Johnson

EAST TEAM

Bob Bryan, Captain John Isner Frances Tiafoe Jack Sock Denis Kudla J.J. Wolf

Joe De Luna is the Director of Tennis at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at jdeluna@cordilleraranch.com and 210.363.9004.

Alejandro is USPTA and PTR Tennis certified and PPR Pickleball certified. He is eager to meet everyone and incorporate what he has learned throughout his experi ence to take Cordillera Ranch to the next level. In addition to his tennis classes, he will be providing pickleball lessons and pickleball clinics, helping Cordillera Ranch members enjoy and learn the fastest growing sport in the country. He looks forward to serving members of Cordillera Ranch to the best of his ability to create meaningful relationships and provide outstanding services.

Alejandro can be reached at achong@cordilleraranch.com and 972.256.6677.

STRETCH IT OUT

THE KEY TO ATHLETIC INJURY PREVENTION AND RECOVERY LIES IN FLEXIBILITY, SPORT-SPECIFIC STRENGTH TRAINING AND MASSAGE.

By Tamra Christiansen, Director of Fitness and Wellness

If I got paid a dollar for every time I have heard someone say one of the following things:

“I’m not a runner, because I only run two miles three times a week.”

“Oh, me? I’m not really a golfer. I golf, maybe twice to three times a week.”

“I play pickleball, but I don’t play tennis.”

“I used to play tennis, do track, play basketball… (you name it)”

Well, you get my point.

I am here to tell you that if you are dedicated to moving your body, if you have played sports before or if you are just starting out with a new physical activity or sport, then you, my friend, are some form of an athlete. I say this for two reasons: 1) I don’t believe in downplaying who you are and 2) when you are being physically active consistently, you are going to have to approach your health like an athlete. It doesn’t mean you have to participate in an Ironman (though some of our members do!), but it does mean that you have to do many things to prepare for your work, prevent injury and stay balanced both mentally and physically.

I am a true believer of the body being a kinetically connected unit. If one area is tight, it will eventually effect the rest of the body and the way the body is meant to move.

Let’s start with the body verses the activity. For golfers, you are using your entire body. If you are playing without a proper warm-up, you will incur low back, hip, shoulder, knee or wrist strains or in juries. So much power goes into the golf swing. The number one injury for golfers and the number one injury affecting nearly 65 million Americans is low back pain. It’s the same with tennis and pickleball. Even with a proper warm-up and cool-down, many are affected by shoulder, wrist and ankle injuries. With runners and walkers, the injuries are usually in the knees and low back. Hunting and fishing have risk of injury dur ing the preparation and during the sport itself. What I am trying to say is that all sports are not without the risk of injury.

So, do we quit to just avoid it all? No way! I often ask clients who incurred injuries during or later after high school and col legiate sports, “Was it worth it?” Most of the time the answer is yes, and I agree wholeheartedly! Our bodies are made to be put to the test and heal while we do what we love most.

What’s the solution? It’s important to address injury prevention and recovery through flexibility, sport/activity-specific strength training and massage. When we have tournaments and races, we have aches, pains and sometimes injuries along the way. Start with activity-specific warm-ups. Dynamic warm-ups are movements in the way you will be moving in the activity you are preparing for. For golf and tennis, a twisting range of motion through the upper and lower torso are so important. For exam ple, using a tubing or TheraBand to warm up your shoulders and wrists is vital, and leg swings for the hips are huge. Moving in a way that complements the work you are about to do will get you through your week of training.

If you find you are still aching during or after your practices and games, come and see us in the Fitness Center to show you how to be specific to your sport’s and your body’s needs. We have all the equipment you need to work with for stretching out sore muscles. Strengthening smaller groups of muscles around a joint will give it the support it needs to avoid injury. We are only as strong as our weakest link, right?

This brings me to several tools for recovery. The Power Plate is a piece of equipment that aids in a better path to flexibility, massage, circulation, lymphatic drainage and balance and aids in strengthening the bones with osteopenia and osteoporosis. If you

have not tried the Power Plate, schedule a session with one of our trainers and you will feel the difference!

We also have the Precor Stretch Machine and it takes your body through safe and gentle stretches. This piece of equip ment can be used in a dynamic-style movement (beginning of your workout or before a round of golf) or as a static stretch (at the end of your workout with 30-60 second holds). Our trainers have sports-specific stretches to show you that will improve your game.

Donna Buie Earley and I have several clients who come in just for a manual stretch session and feel so much better for it. A manual stretch isn’t passive by any means. The member being stretched breathes intentionally to release the tight hamstrings, chest muscles or the part of the body being stretched. We use a contract-relax method to gain more flexibility. A 30-minute stretch session allows for release in general, but I am a true be liever of the body being a kinetically connected unit. If one area is tight, it will eventually affect the rest of the body and the way the body is meant to move. If you stretch all around an area that is bound up, it gives the affected or injurious area freedom to be safely stretched.

Come to one of our mini clinics for foam rolling, which is also known as myofascial release. This allows release in the fascial system that runs through the muscular system of the body. I have many members tell me they have stretched and stretched but cannot seem to find relief in a certain area of their back, legs, etc. If we are bound up by a knot in the fascial system or in a muscle, we can stretch all day, but that area will remain tight because we need to release that space. Using a release ball or a foam roller in the right way will alleviate the tightness.

Kelly Vizzone teaches ELDOA, which helps to align the spine and release tension. Kelly’s goal for you is to get to know the ELDOAs for your body and use them in your daily practice. With proper alignment, the body is less prone to injury.

Our Pilates team, Kris Cracknell, Ronnie White and Donna Buie Earley can help your core to your entire body get longer

and stronger with the lengthening and strengthening effect of the Pilates Reformers and Chairs. Yoga allows your body to de stress through deep breathing and flexibility-provoking poses.

This brings me to massage. Getting regular massages helps your body overcome injuries and relaxes the muscles so you can perform your very best. Massage not only relaxes tight muscula ture, but it also helps the lymphatic system to drain, unties stub born knots that are restricting movement, lowers blood pressure, destresses the mind and body and allows for better movement and flexibility. Our massage team is trained in manual stretching, too.

Oksana Robertson is one of Cordillera’s massage therapists who believes “Massage is not just a luxury. It is a way to a hap pier, healthier life.” She offers luxury and deep tissue, stone and honey treatments, exfoliating and trigger point massages. This is

to deep tissue, aromatherapy, stone and cupping. Many might shy away from cupping, but it truly aids in releasing a knot that has trouble letting go. What you see on the skin is not bruising, but cupping marks, which reveal “stagnant blood, cellular debris that are a result of past or present injury or illness.” The body is releasing toxins, which leads to healing in that area. Many pro-athletes use cupping to reduce the severity and speed up the healing process of an injury.

Amanda Rebollar has a schedule full of Cordillera Ranch athletes. They know the weekly, bi-weekly or monthly regu larly scheduled massages are what keep them stretched, less injury-prone and relaxed. Amanda offers stretch sessions as well. There is a reason she is booked solid, but if you ever go from her waitlist to being a client, it will be a treat!

a great way to work through soreness from your sports and activ ities and to calm your mind from everyday stressors. Her honey massage is one option to cupping, being that it gently releases the muscle’s knots and bound-up fascia, bringing optimal blood flow to the area. More blood flow equals quicker healing and release of tightness. Oksana is available on the weekends, which makes it convenient to schedule a session. If you just finished a golf round, or are staying at the Lodges and need pampering, Oksana is here for you!

Lisa Geiman has the gift of release for tight muscles and a bound-up neck. While you might have to schedule a few days in advance, she is worth it. She offers everything from relaxation

To recap, it’s all about the balance of health and wellness — when you are physically active and especially dedicated to a certain sport or two, you must do all the things! They are essen tial in the continuation of your workouts. Working out requires proper nutrition. When you are working out, you must practice flexibility, especially flexibility specific to your sport. After finish ing your sport, static stretching is important because a HUGE part of being physically active is recovery.

Tamra Christiansen is the Fitness and Wellness Director at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at tchristiansen@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.9184.

EDIBLE MEMORIES

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch strives to offer unique experiences and next-level services for our members and guests, and our pastry team plays a large part in achieving this goal.

By Brianna Botine, Director of Membership and Lodging

A recent Lodges guest came to visit a Cordillera Ranch member as his family’s last getaway before a complex surgery to remove a life-threatening tumor. The member shared the young man’s passions and how important this trip was, not only to the family coming to the Ranch, but for the member as well. After learning of the special guest’s artistic talents, the pastry team printed some of his acclaimed artwork on sugar cookies and, along with Callan Strong cookies, left them in the Lodge to greet the family when they arrived. This experience brought the family so much joy that they saved the cookies and took them to the surgery team in Philadel phia. Once the Lead Cardiovascular surgeon completed the nine-hour successful surgery, she stepped out to enjoy her Callan Strong cookie. It was such a joy for the Club’s pastry team to help provide treats for the family and the medical team 1,500 miles away.

Our priority is creating magical events with one-of-a-kind pastries, desserts and baked goods. Our talented pastry team can person alize cookies, cakes and cupcakes for a lucky guest of honor, themed party or corporate event — a mother’s lifelong memory of her child’s eyes light up seeing their custom birthday cake for the first time, the most adorable avocado macaroons to make a statement at a Fiesta party or the cutest teeth design for a corporate dental gathering. And while they have the artistic and creative abilities for decorating, these showstopping sweet treats also taste as good as they look.

We think outside the box to provide exceptional food and service that will set your event above the rest. Let our pastry team help build your memories through edible creations!

Contact Jessica Beals to place orders at 830.336.9176 or jbeals@cordilleraranch.com.

Brianna Botine is the Director of Membership & Lodging at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at bbotine@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.9177.

TASTE!

taste noun /tãst/

:the sensation of flavor perceived in the mouth and throat on contact with a substance.

By Jeffrey Cohen, Wine Specialist

NICKEL & NICKEL SINGLE VINEYARD WINES

For this installment, I would like to highlight three new wines that will be on the next printing of the wine list at the Club. Nickel & Nickel/ Far Niente are no stranger to many of you. They come with excellence, expertise and very great juice in the bottle. I enjoy learning the Nickel & Nickel line-up each year because they have new single vineyard offerings each year.

Tenacity, innovation and a single-minded commitment to “vineyard and varietal” have established Nickel & Nickel as the leader in single-vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvi gnon. Every Cabernet offers the purest expression of its vineyard. No two vineyards are alike. And, as the release of the new 2018 Nickel & Nickel Cabernets can attest, neither are any two vintages. Taste the pure, powerful expressions of unparalleled Napa Valley vineyards. The 2018 Nickel & Nickel Single-Vineyard Cabernets are crafted with excellence and made to be savored.

Bear Track Vineyard is planted in three terraced blocks on the eastern hillsides of Napa Valley, just outside of the Howell Mountain AVA. The cool climate and iron-rich volcanic ash soils result in small, tight clusters of concentrated fruit. Ample hang time before harvest yields a Cabernet Sauvignon with intense, dark fruit flavors and integrated tannins.

The 2018 debut vintage from Bear Track Vineyard delivers a wine perfumed with elegant rose petal, blueberry, blackberry and black cassis notes. On the palate, the same elegant floral and fruit notes are found in tandem with savory elements such as sage and black olive tape nade. This spectacular hillside wine is certain to age with grace over the next several years.

State Ranch is located northeast of the town of Yountville. The 23-acre vineyard is divided into two parcels by State Lane Road and consists of both older and younger vines. Many excellent wines are produced from this area, in part due to the rocky, loam soil, which has excellent drainage throughout the year. The vines, as well as the clusters, are moderate in size and the vineyard gets full sun throughout the day. As the young vines mature, the team will be harvesting many different clones to make the final wine. Nickel & Nickel selects fruit from 11 acres of the vineyard.

The Dogleg Vineyard is located in the St. Helena AVA. Dogleg Vineyard Cabernet opens with tantalizing aromas of red and blue fruit with hints of wet stone and graphite. Loaded with flavors of plum and red currant from the start, a slight minerality further lifts to a firm ly-structured mid-palate and an elegantly long finish.

The growing season kicked off in late February and eased into a mild spring that gave extended flowering and uniform clusters throughout the vineyard. Summer continued with an even trend, with consistent temperatures allowing fruit to have beautiful, extended hang time. With no heat spikes the team was able to wait patiently for every cluster to achieve perfect phenolic maturity. A no rush approach to harvest allowed fruit to develop beautifully on the vine and the Cabernet came into the winery with mature tannins, great acidity and perfect ripeness. This vintage was “near picture-perfect,” and the resulting wines are gener ous yet structured and expand on the palate.

Now to pair these wines is quite easy unless you are a vegetarian, even then a grilled marinated portabella mushroom would work. Think of your favorite steak! That is what you will enjoy these wines with the most. Grilled preferably for me, but any steak cooked to your liking will work. Now that we are in autumn, with winter catching up, there are a multitude of squashes that would help make the elegance of your meal. Hit with a touch of nutmeg or baking spices and that will reach the midpoint of the wine on your palate. The perfect har monious bite is what we are looking for.

I’m sure that I say this every year, but I love this time of year! Everybody in a jolly mood as families reunite for Thanksgiving and the talks of Santa and the gifts to hand out. From my family to yours, may you have a very healthy and memorable holiday season!

Jeff Jeffrey Cohen is the Wine Specialist at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at jcohen@cordilleraranch.com.

CAST AND BLAST: A TEXAS PASTIME

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter

With fall weather in sight, the Texas outdoor enthusiast is now busy preparing for winter activities. For many Texans, this includes waterfowl hunting and fishing. This article will focus on waterfowl hunting, and highlight a few hunting and fishing trips The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch will offer this winter.

Of all the fowl that can be hunted, ducks are the most popular. Some of my most vivid memories that I have as a child are going on duck hunts with my father and his friends. Duck hunting starts extremely early in the morning, and there is much work to do prior to sunrise, or what duck hunters refer to as LST (legal shooting time), which is actually a half hour before sunrise. Prior scouting of your chosen duck hunting lo cation is a must. You must be familiar with the area, access to your blind and know the terrain and underwater features with your chosen location.

Duck hunting is not about the thrill of the kill. It’s about marks manship. It’s about precision. And most importantly, it’s about class. Waterfowl should never be shot on the water, but rather while in flight. Attracting ducks that are in flight to come within firing range is accomplished through the use of decoys and call ing. Decoys are manmade ducks, teal and geese, usually made of plastic, wood or some type of synthetic rubber. The larger the spread of decoys, the more attractive your spread will look to groups of ducks passing by.

Another way of attracting the attention of ducks is by call ing. This is done by mastering the blowing of a duck call. It is advised, however, that if you have not mastered this art, you should not dare try it. You might end up scaring the ducks away instead of inviting them towards where you sit or lie in wait.

Ducks have excellent vision! Another important as pect of duck hunting is a blind. Blinds are vital for the sport. Ducks are very wary of traps. Blinds help cover you as you sit or lie in wait as they approach. Blinds are made of branches, stems and leaves over a tent-like structure where you can comfortably stay while waiting for a flock to come within sight.

Duck hunting is a very addictive sport. It combines manual dexterity, physical agility and a sharp mind. Because of these requisites, some people have come to label it as the ultimate test of the human will. Indeed, all the faculties of our bodies will be exercised and our minds will get a much-needed practice as well. Duck hunting is also a relaxing and invigorating pastime. Do give it a try, and chances are, you won’t regret the ex perience. Most of the duck hunts we offer will be on the rice prairie near Eagle Lake and in central north Texas, near Mineral Wells.

Why cast and blast? Again, I look back to the youth adventures with my father, grandfathers and the count

less friends they ran with. After a long morning of duck hunting, we usually headed in for a second breakfast or early lunch, before heading out to fish for the middle part of the day. We needed something to do to kill time before heading out to the duck blinds in the afternoon. We usually found ourselves chasing largemouth bass or crappie if hunting on lakes or rivers or going after speckled trout if we were hunting the coast.

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch will offer a few trips this win ter that feature duck hunts in the morning and fishing in the afternoon. We’ll be visiting Captain Sally Black in Baffin Bay. Sally specializes in fishing for trophy-sized speckled trout in Baffin Bay or fly casting for redfish and specs. We’ll also visit Captain Chris Martin at Bay Flats Lodge in Seadrift, Texas on San Antonio Bay. They offer a first-class lodge, great guides and accommodating staff, all dedicated to provide the ultimate outdoor experience.

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

CordilleraRanchLiving.com

HORSES AND KIDS: A NON-TRADITIONAL APPROACH TO HORSEMANSHIP

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter

In today’s competitive world it has become much more imperative to get ahead of the pack early in life. However, due to greater stress rates among school-aged children, especially in high school and collegiate prep schools, it is much harder to remain competitive. On the premise of preparing students to learn how to be successful, working with horses can give kids the confidence and skills they need to work towards goals in other areas of their lives.

Jenn Guidt, the new Equestrian Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, has realized that horses can serve as the missing piece of the puzzle to help adolescents prepare for adulthood and to harness their energy, motivation and goals into a design for future successes. Jenn has combined her love of horses and her past experience in equine facilities to develop a lesson program where horses are utilized as teachers for youth who are yearning to excel but are strug gling with competition, grades, peer pressure, concentration and concern about their future.

Horses rely on their instinct and intu ition. Because of this they are adept at reading non-verbal cues and reflect back to the individual with their responses. They are sentient beings with emotions, memories and empathetic abilities pro viding an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. The horse is the teacher via cause and effect creating a challenging arena to process students’ limiting beliefs, stress triggers, self-man

agement and other core issues that may be standing in the way of achieving excellence.

Lesson activities may involve group tasks using several horses or may pair up one student to one horse; this dynamic can offer a myriad of learning opportunities for both intraper sonal and interpersonal skills. One example of this may start out with students individually paired with a horse and the aim of getting “their horse” to pass between two marked cones. Then, as a variation or continuation of this same exercise, we might have the entire group work as a team to get one horse (that they collectively select) to pass through the cones...only this time “no talking.” Suddenly students are able to deter mine the difference between solving problems independently and that success sometimes means reaching out to others for assistance. Developing this wisdom is essential to navigating through all of life’s adversities.

Students begin to understand cause and effect, how what they verbally say (or don’t say) and physically do will relate not

only to themselves but to their peers, classmates and family. This mirror-like heightened awareness that results from interacting and working with the horses naturally provides guidance for stu dents to arrive at a clearer sense of self, self-awareness and improved self-confi dence. This process encourages com munication of conflicts and insight into problems with the goal being relief of symptoms, changes in behavior, im proved social and vocational functioning and personal growth. These skills are easily transferred into real life by helping to develop a plan to nurture other areas of their life.

At The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch one of our “Main Things” is to offer unique programming for our members and their guests. Contact Jenn Guidt at the Cor dillera Ranch Equestrian Center to learn how equine-facilitated learning can help adolescents foster invaluable life skills, such as:

• Responsibility for self and their actions

• How to trust and be trustworthy

• Body language and social cues

• Coping skills

• Setting goals and follow through • Resiliency to reassess if obstacles arise

• Self-confidence and self-esteem

• Provide insights into stress and personal management

• Building important social and relationship skills

• Concept of personal and time management

• Self-initiative and motivation

Jenn Guidt is the Equestrian Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at 803.840.0875 and jguidt@cordilleraranch.com.

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

Holiday GiftsatClub the 10

Gift certificates from The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch make the perfect holiday gifts for family and friends who need a little adventure or relaxation in their lives!

Massage

You cannot go wrong with this gift! Our Club Masseuses, Lisa Geiman, Amanda Rebollar and Oksana Robertson, will mas sage any stress away. Get these gift cer tificates for the existing pricing before the price increase in January. 60-minute treat ment for $90 (value of $100) or 90-minute treatment for $125 (value of $135). Due to the high demand, Massage Gift Certifi cates are limited to 10 per member.

5-Stand and Flush Shotgun Package

The 5-Stand and Flush Package at the Gun Club accommodates a group of two to four shooters and includes shotguns, shells and six rounds (150 birds) on the 5-Stand and Flush field. $150 (value of $220)

Pilates

This package is perfect for anyone new to the world of Pilates — three private Pilates training sessions with Pilates profession al Ronnie White. Pilates is a system of exercises that helps strengthen, stretch, balance and tone the body. Available to new clients only. $225 (value of $255)

Camping Outing

Plan a Camping Trip with your family or friends. This package accommodates a group of four to six and includes all camping equipment, reservation service, set up and strike equipment at campsite, and firewood so you can enjoy a beautiful evening under the stars at the river park at Cordillera Ranch. $235 (value of $372)

Personal Fitness Training

A great way to start a New Year’s resolution is with this gift — five one-hour personal training sessions with professional trainers Tamra Christiansen, Kelly Vizzone, Kevin Durio or Kathy Miller. $350 (value of $400)

Tennis and Pickleball Lessons

Do you have a tennis or pickleball enthusiast in your life? Treat them to five lessons from any of our pros, Joe De Luna, Brad Hill or Alejandro Chong. $375 (value $425)

Gun Club Experience

Have you wanted to try out everything the Gun Club has to offer? Give someone the gift of discovery with this full range experience. This certificate is good for one to four people, includes all guns and ammo and you’ll get to experience our shotgun range, rifle range and handgun range. $150 (value $208)

Trail Ride

Go on a gorgeous Hill Country Trail Ride with a group of four friends or family members. All Trail Rides are for those ages 12 and older. $175 (value $200)

2Fishing Trip on the Guadalupe River

Give a relaxing half-day trout or bass fishing trip on the Guadalupe River. This trip accommodates two people and includes beverages and fishing equipment. $315 (value $375)

THESE SPECIAL OFFERS must be purchased by December 23, 2022 and ALL EXPIRE December 31, 2023.Please contact Megan Soltis to purchase any of these great gift certificates.

1Kayak Fishing Trip on the Devils River

This spectacular river is the best in Texas by far! Any angler and adventurer would love to spend four nights on this bass fishing outing. Please contact Shane Reynolds at outfitter@cordilleraranch.com for any questions regarding this trip. $725 per person (value of $795)

Megan Soltis is the Communications & Family Activities Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at 830.336.9172 or msoltis@cordilleraranch.com.

THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS

By Jessica Beals, Club Events Coordinator

Activities surrounding the holiday season are a heartwarming testimony to the importance of family, joy and goodwill in Cordillera Ranch. Family-friendly gatherings are set within the spectacularly decorated Clubhouse, which is transformed into a Texas-style winter wonderland where ornaments and garland are truly hung with care. In fact, with Christmas trees and wreaths decorating all buildings on the Ranch, it’s easy to be drawn into the spirit of the season. We are happy to celebrate these holiday traditions at the Clubhouse.

TURKEY TROT

Date: November 25

Time: 9:30am Registration Opens / 10:00am Run or Walk Begins

They say that Christmas officially begins right after Thanks giving dinner. If this belief holds true for you, then before you hit the malls, take a little trot around the Clubhouse to work off that extra helping of dressing (Texas Fun Fact: we call it dress ing whether it’s stuffed or not!). The Friday after Thanksgiving marks the annual Turkey Trot where more than 100 Cordillera Ranch residents come out for a 5k walk or run followed by some healthy breakfast choices at the end of the race. All ages are welcome, so push the kids in strollers and bring along your pets!

UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER GOLD RUSH / BLUE SANTA FUNDRAISER

Date: November 30

Time: 5:00 to 9:00pm

Ugly Christmas Sweaters are cool, so put on your most outrageous holiday attire and join your neighbors who are all vying for the coveted 1st Place Award, bragging rights includ ed. It’s also cool to help local kids have a very merry Christmas. Cordillera Cares is partnering with the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office BLUE SANTA program to fill stockings for children this holiday season and you can bring your donations along for this special fundraiser! Please reach out to Vicki Hansen at vhansen@cordilleraranch.com for more information.

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

Date: December 10

Time: Reserved seating at 9:00 and 11:00am Picture Fee: $15 for the first photo; $5 for each additional photo

Kids, bring your whole family to the Clubhouse for breakfast with Santa and enjoy all of your favorites such as Chef-crafted omelets, traditional pancakes and so much more. Be sure to dress festively to have your pictures taken while you tell Santa what you would like for Christmas. There will also be Christmas crafts to make while your parents and grandparents are enjoy ing mimosas and entertainment by Peter Gloria. If your wish list changes, do not worry — the Letters to Santa Mailbox will be out during all of December to make sure your letters arrive at the North Pole on time.

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING

Date: December 17

Time: Reserved seating 9:00 to 11:00am and 12:00 to 2:00pm

Welcome to the ultimate candy land! Every year more than 50 kids attend our annual holiday Gingerbread House Deco rating Party. We provide everything needed to create these colorful confections: assembled gingerbread houses, icing and candies to decorate and, best of all, we take care of the cleanup! Drinks, a brunch buffet and holiday treats are also included, and did we mention that the Gingerbread Houses are completely edible?

Watch for more fabulous holiday events to pop up around the Ranch. We look forward to celebrating with you and we wish you and your loved ones merriment and magic during this holiday season.

Jessica Beals is the Club Events Coordinator at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at jbeals@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.9176.

As a leading aircraft acquisition and brokerage firm, Vertical Jet Sales provides comprehensive aviation services which include but are not limited to aircraft valuation analysis, market research and intel, and consulting services. Whether it is time to buy, sell, or trade, our insight and expertise will provide you with the best possible outcome.

VOLUNTEERING IN THE COMMUNITY

CORDILLERA CARES CONTINUES TO GAIN TRACTION, SUPPORTING FOUR LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS.

By Brianna Botine, Director of Membership & Lodging

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY

When Maureen and Joe Cheben took over the duties of coordinating the Families of Cordillera Ranch Adopt-a-High way Program in March of 2016, they inherited a 12-year legacy of hardworking volunteers who were even recognized by the Texas Department of Transportation Adopt-a-Highway Litter Prevention Program. Cordillera Ranch residents continue to ban together to clean up trash along two miles of Highway 46. On Saturday, September 17, Cordillera Cares partnered with the group and with a team of 11 volunteers were able to pick up 21 bags of trash and a lot of loose construction material.

SERVICE FOR SERVICE

On Monday, August 29, Cordillera Cares through The Clubs at Cordillera Ranch hosted the Boerne Blaze Special Olympi ans’ end-of-season swim meet and pool party. Boerne Blaze Special Olympics falls under Special Olympics Texas – San An tonio Area 20 and for more than 15 years has provided special

athletes a safe and supportive outlet to participate is sports and engage in social camaraderie. 14 employee volun teers hosted 75 people at the Cordil lera Ranch pool and the Blaze families were blown away by the kindness. Both organizations look forward to partner ing on many more events!

OUT DRIVE HUNGER

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch hosted Hill Country Family Services (HCFS) for their 7th Annual Out Drive Hunger Golf Tournament on Monday, September 26. HCFS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Kendall County residents in crisis. The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch were the Golf Course Sponsor for the event and eight volunteers from Cordillera Cares worked throughout the course.

A BLUE CHRISTMAS

Cordillera Cares is excited to announce their partnership with the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) Blue Santa Program. For more than 25 years, this branch of the Blue Santa program has provided Christmas presents to about 400 disadvantaged Kendall County children annually. Last year 145 families bene

fited from the assistance of the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office, many local businesses and individuals.

The KCSO Blue Santa Program was originally called the Brown Santa Program but the name changed when the Sheriff’s Office, Boerne Police Association and the Fair Oaks Police Department joined forces in 2004. The program now consists of the Sher iff’s Office, Hill Country Family Services, Boerne Community Coalition, Boerne I.S.D. and the American Legion. The program continues to grow every year and Cordillera Cares is proud to be a new partner. (www.kendallcountysheriff.com/blue-santa)

STOCKINGS! This year Cordillera Cares’ mission is to do nate 400 age and gender-appropriate stockings for these kids. This is Cordillera Cares’ biggest and most significant philan thropic effort of the year and is requesting help from commu nity families. There will be five opportunities for the Cordillera Cares team to volunteer and get involved: Shopping, Spon soring a Stocking, Helping at Blue Santa Gold Rush, Stuffing Stockings and Blue Santa Distribution.

On Wednesday, November 30, Cordillera Cares will be taking donations for stocking sponsorships at the Club’s annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Gold Rush. Each stocking will be valued at $25 and broken down by age group and gender. Stockings will include toys, games, stocking hat and mittens and other goodies based on age groups. Volunteers can look forward to community fellowship through shopping, stuffing, sponsoring and supporting these Kendall County kids and the Sheriff’s Office. Please reach out to Vicki Hansen at vhansen@cordilleraranch.com to vol unteer and donate.

Brianna Botine is the Director of Membership & Lodging at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at bbotine@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.9177.

SHOW TIME!

By Lakendra Lewis :: Photography courtesy of Boerne Performing Arts

Music, dance and family fun will continue to take center stage during Boerne Performing Arts’ 2023 season, with performances from around the world that will not only take audiences on a globe-trotting exploration of sights, sounds and experiences but will also help to educate, influence and inspire the next generation of performers.

After a jam-packed calendar of performances celebrating its 10th anniversary, Boerne Performing Arts (BPA) will present a Special Event on December 15, 2022 with the Canadian Brass, the world-renowned quintet known as much for their quirky sense of humor and signature dark suits with white running shoes as for their toe-tapping arrangements of holiday favorites.

Some of the highlights from the upcoming 2023 season in clude a concert with The Four Phantoms in January that will fea ture a special evening celebrating the iconic music of Broadway as sung by four former Phantoms from the Tony Award-winning musical “The Phantom of the Opera.” Upcoming shows later in the new season will showcase performances by the Royal Na tional Dance Company “Fire of Georgia,” as well as the Peking Acrobats featuring the Shanghai Circus.

Proceeds from ticket sales, donations and corporate spon sorships help BPA to continue its mission of bringing the performing arts to the Hill Country by presenting concerts from internationally acclaimed artists to improve the quality of life in our community and those that surround us as well as enrich the organization’s FOR KIDS Concerts (student outreach program) that selects elementary students from various grade levels to attend concerts at the Boerne Champion Auditorium.

“The grade level is selected according to which concert would relate best to those students,” said Cathie Meadows, BPA artistic

director. “For instance, the 5th grade classes would benefit most by attending the Canadian Brass concert. This is most appropri ate for them, as they will be selecting electives soon for middle school. They will see the possibilities of learning a band instru ment. Many will be inspired to play in the band during middle school. For the Peking Acrobats, we have selected the 3rd grade…because they are the youngest grade level attending this year and the acrobats will definitely hold their attention.”

To date, more than 32,000 students have benefited from the FOR KIDS Concerts. BPA also offers Master Classes for middle school and high school students taught by the visiting perform ers. Three Master Classes will be offered during the 2022-2023 season including the Canadian Brass for brass students, The Four Phantoms for choir students, and “Fire of Georgia” for dance students.

The Master Classes are scheduled in collaboration with the Boerne Independent School District fine arts director and the school district’s fine arts teachers. Students also will have the opportunity to get in on the act by performing prelude and interlude music at each evening concert and displaying artwork in the lobby.

“I was a band kid in a small rural town in Kansas, and the ex posure to music and performing arts at a young age has brought me joy my entire life,” said Shari Elia.

Shari, who moved with her husband, Pietro, to Cordillera Ranch 18 months ago and joined BPA’s board of directors this past spring, was looking for avenues to enjoy fine arts, as well as engage with the community. “I love watching our Boerne ISD kids light up when they experience our unique, eclectic acts from around the world,” Shari said. “We strive to bring great international entertainment to our Hill Country patrons and inspire our next generation of musicians and performing artists.”

In addition to revenue generated from ticket sales, donations from corporate sponsors like Cordillera Ranch, which in past seasons has hosted private meet and greets between visiting artists and BPA patrons, is key in helping BPA continue to carry out its mission.

“Cordillera Ranch has been involved as a sponsor of Boerne Performing Arts since the beginning of our organization,” said Cathie, a former Cordillera resident who is a founding member

and former vice president of BPA. “Their support and the sup port of our other sponsors, is the reason we are able to continue offering world-class entertainment in Boerne.”

“We recently found out that BPA is eligible for a material grant from the Kronkosky Foundation, provided we can raise matching funds from new subscribers and donors. It’s a unique opportunity for new patrons to double their impact for our kids,” said Shari, adding that this would apply to corporate sponsor ships and all new donations.

BPA is a 100% volunteer-driven 501(c)3 non-profit that in 2014 was awarded the Non-Profit of the Year by the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce. For more information on BPA’s 20222023 season, ticket purchases and how to become a patron, visit www.boerneperformingarts.com, call 830.331.9079 or email info@boerneperformingarts.com. For corporate sponsorships, contact Paula White at paulawhite107@gmail.com.

YOUTH SPORTS

By Trisha Doucette

Way back in the day there was Little League Baseball. Softball wasn’t introduced until the mid-70s.

And that was about it. Kids rode bikes around the neighborhood for hours and played GI Joe and Barbie in the front yard, and we all turned out okay.

But things changed. Beginning in the 70s, college enroll ment grew exponentially and suddenly it wasn’t enough to sim ply be smart. Applicants needed a competitive edge, whether their talents were in sports or the arts. The 70s also marked the enactment of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and female participation in sports skyrocketed. As the popular ity of youth sports evolved, backed by a countless number of statistics extolling the physical, emotional and social benefits, so did parents’ dedication to exposing their kids to as many opportunities as possible. It’s safe to say that a lot of kids are introduced to team sports as early as 4 years old. Parents hud dle together at early Saturday morning games and sign up for snacks, including this Boomer.

Nowadays, kids have the opportunity to try a variety of sports to determine interest and talent — some sports stick and some don’t. For some it’s recreational, while others contin ue on to highly competitive levels. In Boerne and the surround ing areas, access to a wide range of sports has never been greater. And both parents and kids recognize that the effort reaps rewards.

Regardless whether kids choose to play recreationally or competitively, or what their sport of choice is, the experi ence stays with them well beyond school years. Joe De Luna, Director of Golf at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, said it is so rewarding as a tennis professional to give a child an opportuni ty to learn a sport for a lifetime. “It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to go from a beginner to an advanced player. Here at the Tennis Club, we have had so many kids that have taken this path from beginner to a middle school player to a high school varsity player. It’s great to know that if they choose not

to play in college, they still can play for the rest of their lives,” shared De Luna.

Like the Tennis Club, The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Golf Club has also helped junior members foster a love and appreciation for the game. Katie Dillard, Player Development Coordinator, said, “There is nothing better than seeing a junior golfer excited about the sport you love, and we could not be prouder seeing a player’s hard work pay off.”

But there is more that happens on the court or course than mastering a sport. “As Jack Nicklaus once said, ‘a child grows up much faster on the golf course.’ Golf is about so much more than just playing the game. From honesty and integrity to handling adversity and social skills, junior golfers learn count less valuable life skills and lessons along the way, which have a lasting impact. Coaches witness junior golfers blossom into goal orientated, dedicated and mature young adults,” added Dillard.

At Cordillera Ranch, youth sports are encouraged, with opportunities throughout the Clubs and designated practice areas. A soccer field and half basketball court are near the en trance and the river park has a half football practice field. The new Springs Sports Park consists of a basketball court, foot ball/soccer field and baseball/softball field, along with miles of hike-and-bike trails and are utilized regularly by residents. Renee and Scott King shared, “We moved here when our boys were just 7 and 3. It has been fun to see the opportunities for sports and other types of activities for kids grow. Jacob was one of a handful of youth golfers years ago but that has sure changed. The investment in facilities, coaching and engage ment in golf at all levels has been great for us. Our other son, Joshua, is a sophomore at BHS and is literally 7 feet tall and plays basketball. We participate in the select teams in Boerne and San Antonio, but we most appreciate the new hoops over at Cordillera Springs. He is there a couple of times a week to practice. It is so fun and convenient to have that (and the base ball fields) five minutes from our house.”

There are many youth clubs for every sport throughout the Boerne/Hill Country area and San Antonio, and often athletes travel to Austin and beyond to play at the most competitive lev els. Parents of longtime athletes know that word-of-mouth is the most effective way to find a team. Here are a few to get started.

TRAINING

D-BAT: With boys in baseball, owners and Cordillera Ranch residents, Han and Ben Guerrero, recognized the need for additional training facilities and opened D-Bat two years ago. Since then, they have been impressed with the work ethic and dedication of their members, particu larly softball girls, five of which will go to play at collegiate levels this year alone. Baseball and softball training extends to private lessons, camps, clinics, batting cages for baseball, fast pitch softball and slow pitch softball and birthday parties. Every year, D-Bat hosts Middle School Mayhem, a baseball tournament that provides a place for middle schoolers to play and join in friendly competition. This year’s event will take place December 2-4. www.dbatboerne.com

THE DUGOUT: Services include per sonal baseball training, camps and clinics. The Dugout shares space with D1 Sports, (owned by Club Members the Hoege meyers and Perezes) which offers athlet ic-based and sports-specific training for ages 7+. www.thedugoutofboerne.com, www.d1training.com

MULTIPLE SPORTS

BOERNE FAMILY YMCA: Basketball, flag football, soccer and volleyball are offered throughout the year. In San Anto nio, dance/gymnastics/cheer, martial arts and tennis are available. Inclusive sports are offered in partnership with Morgan’s Wonderland and there are even egaming leagues. www.ymcasatx.org/boerne

CATHOLIC YOUTH ORGANIZATION (CYO): A variety of sports are offered throughout the year for boys, girls and co-ed teams and include baseball, softball, basketball, cheer, flag football, soccer and volleyball.

ST. ELIZABETH ANN SETON CYO ATHLETICS: www.seasyouthathletics.com

ST. PETERS BOERNE CYO: www.stpetersboerne.com/cyo

BASEBALL & SOFTBALL

BOERNE LITTLE LEAGUE: www.boernelittleleague.com

SELECT BASEBALL CLUBS: There are many boys Select Baseball Clubs in Boerne and San Antonio and most athletes

continue playing in addition to their high school teams.

BOERNE BUCKS: www.boernebucks.com

CANES SOUTHWEST: www.canessouthwest.com

LOBOS BASEBALL SOUTH: www.lobos-baseball.com

LONESTAR BASEBALL CLUB SOUTH: www.prospectprepbaseball.com

SOUTH TEXAS TRIBE: www.facebook.com/southtexastribe

TEXAS TWELVE: www.texastwelve.com

SELECT SOFTBALL CLUBS: As popular as baseball, select softball clubs span throughout Texas.

TEXAS BLAZE: www.texasblaze.org

TEXAS BOMBERS: www.bombersfastpitch.net

TEXAS GLORY: www.texasgloryfastpitch.com

BASKETBALL

TEXAS PRIME ATHLETICS: www.texasprimeathletics.com

TEXAS HARDWORK: www.facebook.com/texashardwork

Many kids in the competitive Academy and Select programs continue to play in high school and college, having trained under high school and collegiate coaches on staff. The recreational program has 750+ players. www.boernesoccer.org

TORO SOCCER ACADEMY: With fall and spring seasons, and players grouped by birth year, Toro offers beginner instruc tion to competitive teams with disciplined curriculum for boys and girls. www.torosocceracademy.com

FOOTBALL & CHEER

Boerne Youth Football and Cheer Asso ciation: More commonly known as Boerne Bulls, the program provides recreational youth tackle football and cheer experience. The program is open to all participants regardless of size and experience. In 2023, teams will be aligned with our high school attendance boundaries: Greyhounds and Chargers. www.boernebulls.com

LACROSSE

BOERNE LACROSSE: tshq.bluesombrero.com/boernelaxtx

SOCCER

BOERNE SOCCER CLUB: Spring and fall seasons accommodate ages 3-18.

SWIM

AQUA SWIFT BOERNE: Ages 5 to 21 compete year-round in this community program. www.aquaswiftboerne.com

TRACK & FIELD

HILL COUNTRY COMETS: Training for all track and field events is offered for ages 8-18 with meets at state and national competition levels. Event specific coaches also train high school athletes. www.hillcountrycomets.com

VOLLEYBALL

Most clubs offer varying levels of play — from recreation to national levels. A few closest to the Boerne area: ALAMO VOLLEYBALL ASSOCIATION: www.alamovolleyball.com

BULVERDE VOLLEYBALL CLUB: www.bulverdevolleyball.com

HILL COUNTRY VOLLEYBALL: www.hillcountryvolleyball.com

IGNITE VOLLEYBALL CLUB: www.ignitevolleyballclub.com

Boerne Bulls

Boerne Soccer Club

Aqua Swift

SAFETY AND SECURITY at Boerne ISD

Courtesy of Boerne Independent School District

At Boerne ISD, the physical safety and emotional well-being of all students, staff and visitors are a priority. Safety measures are in place at every campus, and in partnership with the Texas State School Safety Center, BISD is continually reviewing and updating the Emergency Operations Plan, which includes guide lines for severe weather, intruders and gas leaks, among others. This also includes protocols and staff and student training for re sponse to critical incidents. In an effort to strengthen the safety and security at all BISD facilities, new initiatives were introduced at the start of the 2022-23 school year, such as creating the new position of Chief of Safety and Security and the See Something, Say Something student campaign.

CHIEF OF SAFETY AND SECURITY

The district recently hired Rick Goodrich as the new Chief of Safety and Security. Goodrich served 22 years in the United States Airforce and has a distinguished career as a Supervisory Special Agent having worked with multiple investigative agen cies including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Texas Department of Public Safety, Internal Revenue Service and Homeland Security through the San Antonio Texas Anti-Gang Initiative, as well as the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, DHS/HSI and the San Antonio Police De partment Narcotics Unit. He has responded to multiple critical incidents, including on 9/11 at the World Trade Center.

Boerne ISD Superintendent Dr. Thomas Price stated, “The safety of our students, staff and visitors has always been our top priority. When selecting a Chief of Safety and Security, Rick stood out due to his vast expertise, skill set, and knowledge.”

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

The Safety and Security Department has appointed 12 School Resource Officers (SRO), one for each school campus. SROs are certified law enforcement officers responsible for safety and crime prevention in schools and have extensive backgrounds and training for critical incidents. The City of Boerne provid ed eight officers, and the City of Fair Oaks Ranch and Kendall County provided two officers each. BISD and the law enforce ment agencies share the costs associated with SROs.

SCHOOL ACCESS

This past summer all campuses in BISD were assessed for structural hazards and security, which includes exterior doors,

alarms, notifications and surveillance systems. The district has also hired an external management group to conduct a safety audit of all facilities, plan and protocols this fall.

Already established and enforced procedures are in place for access to all campuses. Each school as only one access point and visitors must submit to screening through the districts Rap tor Visitor Management System. During school hours, all exterior doors remain locked and classroom doors are secured.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROTOCOLS

Established protocols are in place to address all emergency situations.

LOCKOUT: If a threat occurs outside of a school, all students are escorted into buildings, doors are locked and class resumes.

LOCKDOWN: If a threat occurs inside a school, students are moved to classrooms, doors are locked, lights are turned off and everyone is to remain silent until a first responder opens the door.

EVACUATE: During a lockdown, officials might order an evac uation where students are required to leave buildings in single file with their hands visible.

SHELTER: In the case of severe weather, students will either be evacuated or moved to safe shelter within the school.

HOLD: If hallways need to be cleared, students will remain in locked classrooms.

SAFETY AND SECURITY COMMITTEE

This advisory and oversight committee consists of representa tives from local law enforcement agencies that serve Boerne ISD, along with parents, BISD staff and members of the BISD Board of Trustees. The committee participates in the development and implementation of the district’s emergency response plan and af firms the district completes safety and security audits and reports.

SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING CAMPAIGN

This new awareness campaign is promoted through PSAs on campus morning news shows, announcements and posters placed throughout all BISD campuses. Students are encouraged to report dangerous or suspicious activity as soon as they be come aware of a situation by telling a teacher, principal, parent or SRO, or reporting anonymously through a link accessible from every BISD website page or a QR code on posters that leads directly to the reporting page.

NEW EMS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT SUBSTATION

After many years of significant growth in Bergheim, and without county-owned land in the area, an agreement was made by which Boerne ISD will lease land to Kendall County on the site of Voss Middle School at the corner of FM 3351 and SH 46 E. The agreement for a 50-year ground lease for $1 per year will not only benefit the growing population in eastern Kendall County but provide additional safety and security for Voss students and staff. Voss is the designated middle school for Cordillera Ranch.

RESPECTING THE GEORG HOMESTEAD

By Janice Brazil :: Photography by Nick Menger

There’s an old abandoned home just off the ladies’ 9th tee box of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Cordillera Ranch, east of Boerne off SH 46. This was once the home of Sophia and Carl Georg and their family.

Born in Prussia in March 1827, Philip “Carl” Georg arrived in Texas in 1851 at the age of 24. He originally resided in New Braun fels and married Sophia Elizabeth Georg (perhaps a cousin) on March 21, 1852. According to Carl’s great granddaughter Gloria Georg Schrempp Obst, Carl hauled freight from Indianola, Texas to San Antonio, New Braunfels and Fredericksburg in ox-driven carts. The trip took six months and Carl was one of two masters who split the year in two hauling the freight. While living in New Braunfels, Carl was also one of the early settlers who helped establish Landa Park. He petitioned to become a citizen in the fall of 1857.

By the time of the 1860 census, Carl and Sophia had four sons — Rudolph, Edward, Hermann and Moritz. In 1867 they were still liv ing in New Braunfels where Carl registered to vote. But by the time of the 1870 census, they are found in Precinct 1 of Kendall County. The post office was in Boerne at the time. Moritz must have died by then but two more sons, Julius and Charles, had been born.

In 1860 Carl purchased 320 acres of land from C. H. Berg strom. He then purchased 60 acres from W. Gilmore, and in 1882, patented 128 more acres from an original grant. In 1872 he built the house, which is still called the Georg house. By the time of the 1880 census, Sophia and Charles must have died. Carl is listed as a widower and in his household are Rudolph and his family, as well as Herman and Julius. According to his great granddaughter, Carl and Sophia also lost twin girls.

By 1886, all of Carl’s sons had married and moved away except for Rudolph. He and his family stayed to help Carl run the farm. Carl died in 1906 and, along with Sophia, their twin daughters, Julius and three of Rudolph’s children, is buried in the family cemetery. Family tradition says that there was an old couple already buried there when Carl and Sophia built their home. The cemetery is located south of the eight hole, but not much is left of it today. The rock wall still encloses it, but it’s hard

to see where the graves are. After Carl’s death, the family sold the property to Edwin, Walter and Henry Mertz.

Today, the home remains near the 9th tee box with a plaque paying homage to these early settlers, which is a subtle remind er of how we should appreciate the luxuries we have today and what the early settlers endured to simply sustain a livelihood in this remote area.

Sources:

• 1860, 1870, 1880, 1900 U.S. Censuses

• ”Gone But Not Forgotten, Vol. I”; p63 / Catharine Schwarz // printed June 1997; marriage record of Carl and Sophia Georg.

• Tax records for the years 1880-1890

• Naturalization record of Philip Carl Georg

• “Georg Family” by Gloria Schrempp Obst

SPORTS FIELDS AND PARK RESERVATIONS

Kevin Koether, POA General Manager

The Cordillera Springs Sports Park also contains a baseball/ softball diamond with a backstop, two adjustable basketball goals located in the parking lot and soccer goals in a soccer/ football field and, like the Cordillera Trace Pavilion Park, is often home to football, basketball and baseball practices. The Springs Sports Park connects directly to the trail system as well.

Some of the greatest amenities that Cordillera Ranch has to offer are parks and outdoor recreation with connecting trail systems that include access to the Guadalupe River and spring-fed creeks on the Ranch.

Cordillera Ranch has multiple athletic fields set up for various sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and football, and water front parks equipped for camping. All Cordillera Ranch property owners and Club members may reserve these amenities through the POA office.

The Cordillera Trace Pavilion Park, located between Indian Bluff and Park Ridge, has a diamond with a backstop that can be utilized for baseball, softball or kickball. The park also contains soccer goals and is large enough to host football practice. A covered pavilion with picnic tables can be reserved for events such as birthday parties, luncheons, family gatherings or any other outdoor event. The park also has a restroom, fireplace, BBQ pit and a volleyball net, plus access to the fantastic trail systems. A paved parking lot is located directly off Cordillera Trace and, if needed, overflow parking is available with entry from Park Ridge.

Swede Creek Park and the Guadalupe River Park have five campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, BBQ pit and trash can. The Club’s Outfitter Center offers a full line of camp ing gear to rent and a full-service campsite setup and strike service for residents.

Cordillera Ranch is proud to say that our athletic fields are utilized frequently, and with that we highly recommend reserving dates and times for your teams to practice.

Non-residents who are attending a practice at Cordillera Ranch must check-in with the Security Team if the reserving resident does not provide a directory code.

Reservations do require a $100 refundable deposit, that must be delivered to the POA office to ensure your date(s) are held. If reserving multiple dates, the POA staff will hold the deposit check until after the final reservation date. The POA does try to maintain at least a twenty-minute buffer between reservation times as to allow for clean up of equipment and the fields. If you notice any damage or trash left on-site, please report it to the POA or the guardhouse prior to utilizing the facility. We are al ways happy to see our athletic fields being used as a community gathering place so please reach out to the POA office should you have any questions. To reserve any of these amenities please reach out to the POA office via email at crpoa@cordille raranch.com or call our office at (830) 336-3501.

Kevin Koether is the POA General Manager at Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at crpoa@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.3501.

Burdick Custom Homes

BUILDING A LEGACY

By Kimberly A. Suta

There’s something to be said about the legacy of a company like Burdick Custom Homes, which is built on a seemingly forgotten code of ethics and business practices, but which continues to serve its people well, whether they be staff or clients.

“There’s a history of accomplishments that accompanies our dedication to the finest custom home projects, and an equally long list of industry awards that represent our commitment to our clients’ satisfaction. And really, that’s our finest achievement of all,” said founder, Art Burdick.

In fact, Burdick Custom Homes recently won the 2022 Summit Award for Best Product Design for homes in the $2.5 - $3.0 mil lion and their star salesman, Tracy Harris, won Sales Counselor of the Year award.

According to Art, who in his nearly 50 years in the business has served as President of the Greater San Antonio Builders Association and on the boards of the National Association of Homebuilders and Texas Association of Builders, “Burdick Cus tom Homes has been recognized as the leader in San Antonio custom homebuilding. We have received more awards from our peers and our industry than any other builder in our category. Excellence in design, craftsmanship and service has resulted in an unparalleled reputation for homeowner satisfaction. We continue to build on that reputation.”

Although Burdick builds in a number of affluent neighbor hoods, including Huntington at Shavano Park, The Canyons, The Dominion, Cantera Hills and Anaqua Springs Ranch, they enjoy nothing more than being a Preferred Builder for Cordillera Ranch. Before Tracy was the Director of Client Relations for Burdick,

he held many interesting jobs, including a teacher, school ad ministrator, golf coach and even a professional comedian in Los Angeles for a time.

“I came back from L.A. — I’d given up on maturing,” joked Tracy, “And I ran into David Hill, whose son had played golf for me when I was a high school golf coach. He asked what I was going to do now, and I told him I had no idea. He said, ‘I have something you may be interested in — a development north of San Antonio.’”

After passing a sales aptitude test, Tracy spent the next 15 years, up to 2012, working at Cordillera Ranch.

“When the gates opened, I used to play the theme song from Jurassic Park, for potential clients who had a sense of humor. Cordillera Ranch was my Jurassic Park because whatever you can dream of, it’s there,” shared Tracy. “It’s beautiful at night be cause of the restrictions on lighting. There are no street lights or speed bumps. I always say there’s no perfect house or develop ment, but Cordillera Ranch hits on all cylinders.”

Nomad that he is, Tracy eventually decided to take a year off to travel the world. Upon his return, Tracy could have worked for any number of top builders. During his time at Cordillera Ranch, he had the opportunity to work with 28 different builders and got to see behind the scenes, so to speak. It was Burdick, however, that made him feel the most comfortable and won his favor.

Tracy started working for Burdick but, not soon after, got sick with hepatitis, which he had likely picked up on his travels. After a harrowing liver transplant and a long road to recovery, Tracy started working with the Burdick team yet again.

“I had lost over half my body weight. No one thought I was coming out of the hospital and I was beginning to wonder myself. It brought me closer to God, knowing that, hey, it wasn’t my time. I’ve seen some of the purpose of why in what I do. When they offered me my old job back it was like a dream come true. I said I’ll be over there tomorrow and the rest is history,” remembered Tracy.

Craig McCasland

According to Art, Tracy is something of a site selection virtuoso. “He’s as good at site selection and lot evaluation as anyone I’ve ever seen. Getting our clients to the right site is very important and not everyone has that ability. He’s also a character and just an electric and extraor dinary human being. He truly cares about people and helping them achieve their goals as opposed to just selling them. Tracy will tell you the truth, even if it hurts him,” explained Art.

When it comes to site selection there are a myriad of variables that come into play and Tracy’s keen eye is constantly evaluating each of these factors. “I want to know where the sun is setting, where the prevailing winds are coming from, how much of a grade we’re dealing with, where your neighbors are going to be situated, and so on,” Tracy elaborated. Tracy asks clients questions, like what do you want to wake up and see every morning? It’s these kinds of questions that help him determine the best lot and it’s practical ly guaranteed he’ll find it.

Alexia Herber, the President of Burdick Custom homes, has

been with the company for 24 years. She works closely with Tracy, Monika Morris-VP of Design and Dave Herber-Cordillera Project Manager throughout the design/build process. She claims to be more behind-the-scenes but it’s undeniably a team mentality and effort that keeps Burdick running like a well-oiled machine.

“We listen to our clients and try to make sure we get involved

Lauren Keller

Lauren Keller

from the inception of design. A lot of customers have come to me with complete sets of plans that don’t work out well in the field, so it’s beneficial to have your builder involved to ensure the design fits the topography of the lot as well as your budget,” advised Alexia.

“We have many clients that have trusted us enough to build

second or third homes. Additionally, we have new clients who are relocating from California and the Northeast. They’re wanting to come to Texas to retire because of the political climate as well as the general Texas Hill Country atmos phere,” she shared.

She, too, lives in Boerne and appre ciates the surrounding hills, trees and beauty of nature. “Cordillera Ranch has done a fabulous job of preserving that aspect when it comes to design and size of the lots at the Village, for example, which allows the deer to meander and roam freely in the subdivision,” she said.

“Cordillera provides a lifestyle for people of peace and serenity in a Hill Country environment that is still close to town.

They have a Club and all the facilities and opportunities, such as the Gun Club, horseback riding and golf. Most people are relocating there now because of the premier golf course.”

Another aspect that has most assuredly impacted Burdick’s own premier status as a Preferred Builder is their commitment to work with highly skilled tradesman, even if that means they

Craig McCasland

Jason Roberts

have to wait a little bit longer. For Burdick, quality will always trump quantity.

“Our loyalty and integrity have resulted in long-standing relationships with vendors, suppliers and subcontractors and, now their children, who have taken over the businesses. In this environment, it gets us preferred status, but ultimately we would rather wait on our highly skilled subcontractors. Time liness is important but what’s more important is our clients’ satisfaction,” noted Alexia.

As the years roll by, we all learn change is inevitable. Although Art has such a love for his work and the incredible company he’s built over half a century, he is currently in the process of retiring.

“Alexia has been the president and my partner for a while. She shares my passion for this industry and is committed to upholding the reputation and level of client satisfaction I spent

my career establishing. Alexia has been running the business for several years, and we’re now well into the transition of full ownership and control to her,” he said, proudly.

“Longevity is one of the qualities that has enabled BCH to achieve such outstanding homeowner satisfaction,” stated Art. “Most of our staff have been with us for more than 10 years with several exceeding 20 years. They are each extremely committed individuals. This is paramount in our success and our homeowner satisfaction.”

Alexia, Tracy and team welcome the opportunity to visit with potential homeowners to discuss why you should choose Burdick to help you build your Cordillera Ranch dream home.

BURDICK CUSTOM HOMES 210.497.2200 :: BurdickHomes.com

Lauren Keller

234 CORDILLERA RIDGE

$4,225,500 6,044 Square Feet MLS# 1598223

This stunning Modern Organic concept by Paul Allen Homes opens to a wide living area with a great room and dining room with floorto-ceiling windows accenting panoramic views. The chef’s kitchen is complete with Wolf/Sub-Zero/Cove appliances and wine tower and a separate caterer’s kitchen. The luxurious master suite includes an over sized closet with dressing island, coffee bar, free-standing tub that looks out over an unobstructed Hill Country view and access to an outdoor patio. Flex spaces include an executive study and game room. Outdoors, two covered patios are perfect for entertaining with a kitchen, full bar, audio/visual package, impeccable pool with a spa and waterfall, and a complete landscaping package.

5 bedrooms / 5 full baths and 1 half bath / 4 car garage

Designed by A-Design by Gustavo Arredondo Chef’s kitchen, caterer’s kitchen and outdoor kitchen

Stunning craftsmanship with amazing ceilings and endless details throughout

Spacious game room with access to outdoor entertaining

Construction completion and move-in spring 2023

Master Full Golf Membership Available

14 MARIGOLD CIRCLE

$1,637,186 3,527 Square Feet MLS# 1596268

Built in the Hill Country Transitional style, this 3,527-square-foot home is situated on 1.26 acres at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac graced by live oaks, backing up to one of Cordillera Ranch’s tranquil parks.

A welcoming entry through impactful double iron front doors leads to an expansive living-dining-kitchen space, along with a separate game room, that opens onto a covered patio through panoramic sliding glass doors. The chef’s kitchen features an upgraded Thermador® kitchen package complete with a 42-inch range, and the master suite opens to a private garden area.

3 bedrooms / 4 bathrooms / 3 car garage 1.26 acres on cul-de-sac Amarillo floorplan

Outdoor living and private master suite garden

Multiple-use study

Master Full Golf Membership Available

Rendering/Design subject to change

Rendering/Design subject to change

FOOT

With perhaps the best views of the golf course in Cordillera Ranch, this beautiful home sits on the 6th green of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. You can view a total of six holes from the back patio as well as a 20-mile-long range view. There are high-end finishes throughout this home, including a brand-new pool with an automated cover. You will have plenty of room inside and out for entertaining. It’s only a short cart ride to the Club with easy access in and out of the Ranch using the Joe Klar gate.

5 bedrooms / 5 full baths and 2 half baths / 3 car garage 1.58 acres

Two eating areas, walk-in pantry, game room, media room

Covered patio overlooking large pool

JOHN KUHRY

Listing Agent :: 512.424.9924

SWEDE SPRINGS

This stunning custom home sits on 3+ secluded acres in the Texas Hill Country’s most exclusive country club community, Cordillera Ranch. Hill Country views of Swede Lake and Swede Creek Park characterize this premium location, which features cul-de-sac privacy and multiple mature oak trees. This home is just a short walk to 66-acre Swede Creek Park and Cordillera’s private Guadalupe River frontage. The open floor plan features granite counters, stainless Bosch appliances, custom cabinets and native stone accents. A spacious summer kitchen and covered outdoor living space create the ideal venue for family gatherings and entertaining guests. This home also features central water, sewer and high-speed fiber optic service.

3 bedrooms / 3 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage

3.01 acres

Covered patio with bar-b-que/grill

VANCE

Listing Agent :: 830.388.2828

Cordillera