Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine: January-February 2023

ACCOLADES FOR THE CLUB’S GOLF PROFESSIONALS

Corey Roberson and Katie Dillard were both recognized by the Southern Texas PGA. Corey was honored for his mentorship and advancement of PGA Professionals, while Katie was awarded for her leadership in player development initiatives.

CHANGE

OLD

The professionals at the Fitness Center are ready to shake up your workout in 2023 by varying

OUTDOORS IN THE HILL COUNTRY WINTER

For hunting, shooting and fishing enthusiasts, the area’s pristine rivers and lush pasturelands provide plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities on and around the Ranch during mild Hill Country winters.

Todd Glowka is a Certified Graduate

Builder and Certified Master Builder as well as a Certified Green Builder by the National Association of Home Builders. With almost two decades of luxury residential experience, he is a solution-focused professional, accustomed to leading and directing employees and subcontractors in the planning and execution of large-scale residential projects and custom renovations. As his clients’ first point of contact, Todd oversees all quality control and is highly skilled in resolving project obstacles, managing construction schedules and adhering to design requirements.

Master

Past, present and future; Cordillera Ranch attempts to be a place that encapsulates all of those tenses at once. Always trying to maintain a connection with the history of the property and those who settled on it before we got here, we’ve strived to stay connected to the heritage of the land. Whether it’s covenants that preserve the scenery, natural beauty and wildlife or new improvements highlighting the heritage through architecture and monikers, the community is intentionally designed to bring the past into the present so that it’s not forgotten, but preserved and enjoyed in the future (think long-term mindset). In this issue you’ll find a story of the Philpy’s living the same past, present and future at once in Cordillera Ranch, as Mark and Sarah sought a connection to Sarah’s past German experiences while looking to have a present home to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Hill Country, and preparing for a future where the kids could enjoy visiting.

Connecting the past, enhancing the present and providing excitement about the future is the most intriguing and exciting part of this constantly evolving and growing community. That’s why when someone inadvertently questions, “Y’all developed Cordillera Ranch?” I politely redirect it by clarifying that “yes, we’re developing Cordillera Ranch, and there’s more to come.” The point is, it is not completely in the past — it is evolving and growing into the future. We recently added to the future of the Tennis and Pickleball operations with six new pickleball courts and the Clubhouse Cabana renovation and expansion will add an entirely new social and dining scene, unmatched by any private Club in the area. We’re also preparing for the future with several new phases of homesites coming to market including 3+ acre view estates near the front entry, new Clubs Village estate homesites and, for the first time in over a decade, Guadalupe River homesites — stay tuned for more information about these upcoming releases. However, it’s really the people that make Cordillera Ranch, and we’re preparing for the future with the addition of Michael McClellan (new F&B Director) and Gary Short (new Director of Real Estate Sales) to our esteemed staff.

This desire to stay connected to the past and present while always looking towards the future results from a core principle guiding every plan for Cordillera Ranch, which is always having a long-term mindset. Here's to a Happy New Year and hoping you connect to the past, present and future with us at Cordillera Ranch!

Charlie Hill President Cordillera Ranch

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

Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 28 Cordillera Trace, Boerne, Texas 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2023. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions. Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The content contained does not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation, Traveling Blender, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents. Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Traveling Blender, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

The Clubhouse The 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 the Golf Shop at 830.336.4653. For tennis events, please contact the Tennis Club at 830.336.4823.

EVENTS EVENTS

January 1

The Clubs will be closed.

January 17 :: 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.

January

24 :: NEW! More Than Magic

Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Bring your friends for an adult-only night and enjoy dinner and a show with award-winning magician Ben Jackson! Ben is a nationwide traveling magician known for his charisma and professionalism, and bringing more than just magic to wow his guests. The evening begins with a mix, mingle and magic cocktail hour with Ben. Then take a seat for a wonderful dinner and entertaining magic show. Ben has been featured on NBC’s TODAY show and at Bellagio® Las Vegas! Be entertained with laughs and a bit of magic for a fun-filled night.

February

2 :: 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.

February 4 :: NEW! Rodeo Kick-Off Night

Time: 6:30 to 9:30pm

Location: Main Clubhouse

Come out for a night of boot scootin’ boogie as we host our first annual Rodeo Kick-Off Night! Gear up in your favorite western wear to shop, eat, drink and dance the night away with country band Smoke Wagon. Ladies, get ready for some special fashion including custom cowgirl hats from Wheeler’s Western Wear. Our culinary team will also serve all the rodeo food favorites including Texas BBQ, house-made smoked brisket and fried sweets to keep up your energy on the dance floor.

February 11 :: Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner

Time: Reservations available every 15 minutes from 5:00 – 9:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Join us for a romantic evening at the Club featuring live entertainment by Berni Martini and a special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu for you and your special someone. Specially selected wines and champagnes will be available to complement your dining experience. Need flowers? No problem! We can have a sweet surprise ready tableside for your loved one.

February 12 :: Super Bowl Sunday Catering To-Go

Planning a watch party but don’t want to deal with all the mess? Call the Club receptionist to order some game day party grub to-go. We will have wings, heavy sides and more.

February 14 :: Valentine’s Day

Location: Main Dining Room

Relax and enjoy a romantic dinner at the Club as Executive Chef Isaac Cantu and his culinary team prepare a special Valentine’s Day feature for you and your loved one! Reservations are strongly recommended.

February 16 :: W.O.W. Women of Wine

Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Calling all ladies! Enjoy this delightful food and wine pairing experience while you socialize with your friends. There will be food demonstrations by Executive Chef Isaac Cantu paired with selected wines by Wine Specialist Jeff Cohen.

February 16 :: M.O.B. Men of Bourbon

Time: 6:00 to 9:00pm

Location: Men’s Grille

Attention Gentlemen! Come out and quench your thirst and appetite with bourbon spirits and food demonstrations as Mando Alvarado hosts an evening in the men’s lounge.

February

21 :: “A Night in Tuscany” featuring Tenuta Casanova Winery

Time: 6:30 to 9:30pm

Location: Main Dining Room

Please join us as The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch welcome back special guests Rita Salvi and Silvano Cis from Tenuta Casanova Winery. Tenuta Casanova is 20 hectares of vineyard and farm located inside the natural park of Cipresseta Sant’Agnese, in the heart of Chianti, in Tuscany. You will be able to enjoy the irresistible flavor of their farm right here in the Hill Country. Silvano will guide you through an authentic coursed dinner featuring their scented organic wines and real Casanova products, such as 30-year-old Balsamic Vinegar and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. You will be surrounded by the flavors and aromas of Tuscan wine tradition and by the owner’s love for his land.

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

2022 WHAT A YEAR!

By Marc DeWall, General Manager

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Before we turn the page to new beginnings, I thought I would recap some of the highlights from 2022. The Club continued solid growth last year and it was nice to see the return of a few more special events that help make life better at Cordillera Ranch!

The Food and Beverage experience at the Club has never been better. Chef Isaac just passed the 10-year mark here at the Club and he and the culinary team continue to push the envelope with quality dining and unique events. After being in this role for the last 4.5 years, my appreciation for the challenges in meeting and exceeding customer expectations in F&B is stronger than ever. We recently hired Michael McClellan as our new Director of Food and Beverage and are excited to have him on our team! Michael has great experience in the industry and I am confident he will do a great job elevating all of our members’ dining experiences here at the Club. If you would like to learn more about Michael, please check out a more complete profile of him on page 48 of this issue.

Corey Roberson and the golf professional staff continue to grow the golf operation. Total rounds played were flat compared to 2021 but the Player Development Program led by Katie Dillard had an outstanding year. Junior Golf had a record year with so many kids learning to play the game through the Little Linkstars program. They are fun to watch but even better to listen to when they are dishing on one of their most recent rounds! I hope many of you are taking advantage of the new merchandise pricing structure that was introduced early last year. The Golf Shop has some great selections with competitive pricing and I know Camille is always looking for ways to help you when shopping for yourself or a friend.

Director of Agronomy Stuart Rowland and the Golf Corse Maintenance team have the golf course in fantastic condition. His attention to detail and grooming standards for the course are clearly noticeable. I have had so many members compliment the course this year despite one of the worst droughts on record in the state of Texas. Playing our Jack Nicklaus Signature Course when it is fast and firm is always challenging and fun!

If you like to work out or just relax, the Fitness and Spa offer-

ings continued to grow this past year. More programming and diverse classes were hosted in Group X by Tamra Christiansen and her team last year. They are certainly busier than ever and there is something there for everyone who wants to stay in shape, get in shape or just unwind and relax!

Pickleball! This game just continues to explode in popularity. The six new dedicated pickleball courts opened in August and reviews from our members have been great. It is a popular game that can be played by people of all ages and abilities, with an emphasis on fun. I truly enjoy watching our members playing and competing in a great atmosphere that is also very social. If you are still wanting to pick up the game, please get with Director of Tennis and Pickleball Joe De Luna or one of the assistants and they will help you get started!

With the terrible drought conditions last year, we obviously did not host many groups on the river this past summer. Shane Reynolds was still able to take groups to the Devils River and some of the great fishing and hunting spots all over South Texas. I would like to welcome Jenn Guidt as the new Equestrian Manager as she assumed that position in September. The Club also purchased two new Mercedes Sprinter vans last spring and they continue to be a great resource for our members’ traveling needs.

While we were sad to see longtime Director of Membership Debbie Pepper retire in September, we were very happy to appoint Brianna Botine to that role and know she will serve our members’ and guests’ needs very well here on the Ranch. Brianna also maintains her role as Lodging Manager and continues helping make memorable experiences for all who stay there.

We are looking forward to a great 2023 and the opening of the new Cabana this year! Construction is well underway and I know once complete will serve as another fantastic amenity for all of our members to enjoy.

We wish you all a healthy and blessed New Year!

Marc DeWall is the General Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at mdewall@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.9151.

Hess Wine Dinner

Cordillera Ranch Color Run 2022 W.O.W. Women of Wine: Let’s go Super Bowl

Easter Brunch

Little Linkstars Junior Golf

Easter Eggstravaganza

Unfiltered Wine Dinner

A Night in Tuscany Wine Dinner

Mommy and Me Tea Party

Young Guns of Cordillera Ranch Mixer

C-Star Ladies’ Day Out

C-Star Men’s Member-Guest Tournament

Roy Estate Wine Dinner

C-Star Men’s Member-Guest Tournament

New Member Cocktail Reception

Memorial Day Pool Party

Last Day of School Pool Party

Ranch Round-Up Ladies’ Member-Guest Tournament

Junior Club Championship

Little Mermaid Swim Camp

C-Star Games Camp

Junior Golf Clinics

Taste of Spain Wine Dinner

Round Pond Wine Dinner

Princess Horse Camp

Taste of Spain Wine Dinner

Pickleball Courts Grand Opening

Little Chefs Culinary Camp

Junior Cooking Camp

Behind the Vines Wine Trip

Pickleball Playdate

Cordillera Cup Daddy-Daughter Dance

Boo Festival

Ladies’ Club Championship

Revana Family Vineyard Wine Dinner Men’s Club Championship

Fairway Fest

Oktoberfest

Turkey Trot & Stuffing Stroll

Kids Christmas Lego Night

Breakfast with Santa

Breakfast with Santa Gingerbread House Decorating

Ugly Christmas Sweater Gold Rush

GARY SHORT

Director of Real Estate Sales

281.627.1092 / gshort@cordilleraranch.com

HOMETOWN: The Woodlands, TX FAMILY MEMBERS: Allison, wife; Emma, daughter-15

HOW DID YOU BECOME EMPLOYED AT CORDILLERA RANCH?

A gentleman that I’ve known for about 20 years was helping Cordillera Ranch search for a Sales Director and he asked if I might have interest in the role. I knew of Cordillera, so that was an easy answer — Yes!

WHAT PAST WORK HISTORY PREPARED YOU FOR CORDILLERA RANCH?

I’ve had the great fortune to be involved with real estate at some tremendous private communities in Texas over the past 20 years, both on the selling and managing sides. There’s been a lot of lessons learned along the way that have helped to prepare me for Cordillera Ranch, but the most important lesson, and one thing that will carry over anywhere is to just be a good listener.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE?

This is the easiest question! The most rewarding experience is watching families grow communities. From selecting a home site to moving-in, watching folks go from dream to reality is by far the most professionally gratifying experience for me.

WHAT

HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST PROFESSIONAL CHALLENGE?

My greatest professional challenge is trying not to do too much at once!

WHAT’S YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION OF WORKING AT CORDILLERA RANCH?

It’s very much a family atmosphere. Everyone is always willing to drop whatever they’re doing and help, which for someone new like me, has been a real blessing.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?

I enjoy getting outside and being active, but any chance I get to spend with family and friends is by far my most valued free time.

WHAT IS YOUR SECRET TO HAPPINESS?

I think anytime you try to be something you aren’t leads to undue stress and pressure. Just be true to yourself and happiness will follow!

WHICH SUPER POWER WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE?

If there’s a superpower to make the Dallas Cowboys great again, then that’s the one I want!

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

Well according to my parents, I originally wanted to be a volcano when I grew up, although I’m not sure I believe that! My earliest memory was wanting to be a paleontologist and dig-up dinosaur bones.

IF YOU HAD TO LIVE IN A DIFFERENT STATE, WHAT WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Are there states other than Texas? I’ve visited a lot of states and there’s no place I’d rather live than Texas!

WHAT WOULD YOUR LAST MEAL BE?

I’m a sucker for simple, so a great bowl of spaghetti and marinara is what I’d like to go out with.

WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

A photo-safari in Africa.

MOST MEANINGFUL PERSONAL EXPERIENCE?

The birth of our first and only child, Emma, was and continues to be my most meaningful personal experience.

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WEAVING TWO WORLDS TOGETHER SARAH AND MARK PHILPY

By Jenny Jurica :: Photography by David Teran Personal photos courtesy of the Philpys

More than five thousand miles, and a complete world away from modern day Boerne, Sarah Findlay Philpy was born in 1961 in a “Kinderheim” (a children’s home) in Duete, West Germany. Sarah was adopted as an infant by an American family and spent her childhood living in Germany, Spain, California, Maryland, West Virginia and Ohio. She attended college in Tennessee before transferring to Texas A&M University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Parks in 1984.

While a student at Texas A&M, Sarah noticed that there were no traditional cheerleaders at the university — only the Yell Leaders — the group of male students who are each elected annually to lead Aggie fans in “yells” at sporting events and other school activities. When Sarah expressed an interest in becoming a Yell Leader, a friend gently explained, “You can’t be a Yell Leader because you're a girl, Sarah.”

“Well, that’s all I needed to hear,” remembered Sarah.

So, in the spring of 1982, Sarah Findlay became the first female to ever be added to the ballot for Yell Leader at Texas A&M University. These days, women periodically stand as a candidate for Yell Leader, following in Sarah’s trailblazing steps, but never has a female been elected to this role…yet.

Eight years prior to Sarah attending Texas A&M, another Aggie was blazing his own trails at the university. Mark Philpy headed to Texas A&M after graduating from high school in Midland, Texas in 1973. “I graduated in 1977 when the ratio of men to women was about eight to one, so social life was somewhat limited and we studied all the time!” said Mark. It worked. He graduated from A&M cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering, and he was a member of the engineering honor society, Tau Beta Pi, as well as the President of Pi Epsilon Tau, which is an honor society for

Petroleum Engineering. Following graduation, Mark began his career in the Oil and Gas Exploration and Development realm, a career that continues to the present day.

Sarah married after college and began a family in Bryan, Texas. During this time, she worked as a special events programmer and completed graduate work to become a certified recreation therapist. She and her spouse also became house parents for a children’s home in Amarillo, drawn to a charity near to her heart, after her own birth in a similar environment back in West Germany.

Following a divorce, the single mother of three moved herself and her children to Midland, Texas, where she earned a Special Education teaching certificate and went on to teach 3rd and 4th grade. It was also there in Midland that Sarah’s life changed forever when she met Mark Philpy, himself a divorced father of two.

“Several of the teachers and myself would go to happy hour (which we jokingly called ‘Professional Development’) on Fridays,” said Sarah.

One Friday in September, the group of teachers invited Mark to this “Professional Development” in order to introduce him to another single teacher in the group, but Mark and Sarah gravitated towards one another instead.

This chance encounter coincided with homecoming weekend in Midland. After Happy Hour that evening, Mark asked Sarah if she’d like to go to the high school football game. “We went to the game and had coffee after. He asked me out the next night and I fell in love with him over a two-and-a-half-hour dinner,” said Sarah. “I feel truly like Cinderella, because I was never going to get married again,” she added.

They married in September of 2004, and finished raising their kids in Midland. With Mark’s girls in college, Sarah supported their endeavors along with her kids’ various hobbies, while Mark acted as Founder and President of NorthStar Operating Company, an organization that he still leads today.

With the promise of retirement approaching, one day Mark posed a question to Sarah:

“Where do you want to retire?”

Without hesitation, Sarah replied, “Germany.”

To which Mark quipped with one important caveat: “No, it has to be within three hours of Texas A&M.”

So, the Texas Hill Country it was!

Shortly after this conversation, and after dropping their daughter off at T-Bar-M camp in New Braunfels one summer, Mark and Sarah decided to wander around the Texas Hill Country a bit to have a look around. They had talked about migrating to the area but wanted to make sure to pick a spot that had a nearby international airport, great medical facilities and close proximity to their beloved Texas A&M University. The couple knew that they had struck gold that summer day when they stumbled upon Cordillera Ranch. “When we topped the hill at the main entrance, we knew we had found the place,” said Mark.

Over the next several years, they visited the area often and finally closed on a lot in the Bear’s Ridge neighborhood in

2015. “We love everything about our home and enjoy our wonderful ‘Bear’s Ridge’ neighbors,” said the couple, who wanted to capitalize on the exquisite views that their property affords. The home has amazing panoramic views of the Guadalupe and Cibolo Valleys, and Blanco’s “Twin Sisters” can even be seen from the home. “I wanted a home that was calm and serene, so we kept the interior color scheme neutral. We love that the people who visit, as well as our artwork, bring life and color to the inside of our home,” said Sarah, highlighting what is important to the Philpys.

Throughout their home are samples of some of Sarah’s intricate weaving work. Since age 12, Sarah has had a love for sewing and creating. She was introduced to spinning and weaving during her childhood in Columbus, Ohio and plans to make more time for her hobbies in the future. “My mother told me a long time ago, ‘You’re the happiest when you're creating,’ and she was so right,” said Sarah, who, in addition to basket weaving and off-loom creations, has five floor looms that she has used to create tapestries, soft sculpture and other fiber arts.

Since settling in Boerne, the Philpys have grown to love their community and are among the founding members of the new Bergheim Christian Fellowship, a church plant of Currey Creek Church, which has afforded them the chance to get involved and make an impact. “I’m inspired by solid, loyal and long-lasting friendships and also by the ability to help

others,” said Mark. “Although BCF has just started rolling, big things are in store and we are very happy with our new environment and excited about the future,” he added.

Ever the loyal Aggies, Mark and Sarah also remain active members in organizations at Texas A&M. “The core values of the place keep me coming back,” shared Mark, “And Aggie football is always exciting!” Sarah’s passion lies in the Texas A&M Press Advancement Board, and through their sponsorship of the series “Texas Experience,” they have been instrumental in promoting the publication of 10 books to date.

Though they are empty-nesters now, their combined five children visit often, and love to bring their own dogs with them. This dog-friendly residence is ruled by Cleo Petra, Mark and Sarah’s two-year-old Standard Poodle. “Every morning when Cleo gets up, she will sit by me and look ‘sad eyed’ until I agree to take her for a walk,” said Mark — who, ironically, was the family member least enthusiastic about the procurement of this “Covid puppy.”

With ample time to play with Cleo, golf, garden, travel and attend the community’s Bible study, the Philpys have found their

paradise at Cordillera Ranch. The natural beauty and the friendships that Cordillera Ranch has brought to the Philpy’s lives have solidified the couple’s decision to move to the area.

“I love the casual and relaxed, yet refined attitude of the people and surroundings,” said Mark of Cordillera Ranch. And, with the area’s German influence, Sarah feels as though a part of her heritage has found a home as well, saying, “Boerne feels like home to me…the community, the German culture. I feel at peace and I feel at home here.”

ACCOLADES FOR THE CLUB’S

GOLF PROFESSIONALS

By Corey Robertson, Director of Golf

The golf operation at Cordillera Ranch won a couple of really cool awards this year through the Southern Texas PGA — Katie Dillard, Player Development Coordinator, won the STPGA Player Development Award and Corey Roberson, Director of Golf, won the Bill Strausbaugh Award.

Katie started at Cordillera Ranch in 2016 as a shop attendant and was quickly promoted to Assistant Golf Professional. After a few years in this role, she found her true passion — teaching. In 2019, her title was changed to Player Development Coordinator and she was given the freedom to transform our player development offerings in addition to teaching full time. While her focus is mostly on developing programs and teaching, she is also a valuable teammate of the golf operation as she helps with the day-to-day operation and is heavily involved with staff development. The STPGA Player Development Award is based on the following criteria:

Corey Roberson

• Contributions to the STPGA Player Development initiatives

• Leadership at the Section and National levels in the area of player development

• Quantity, quality and diversity of player development programs

• Quality of best practices, including uniqueness of ideas, increase in rounds, retention and customer satisfaction

• Inspiration of fellow PGA Professionals in the area of player development

Generally speaking, she’s being recognized for helping our members enjoy this difficult game. Katie loves learning and is constantly driven to fine tune her craft. She expanded our junior golf offerings from seasonal camps into semester long sessions where kids are really learning how to play the game. She’s used tools like the Operation 36 development model to grow our ladies and junior programs and is constantly coming up with

for golf professionals. This experience instilled in me the desire to give back and help enhance that culture at Cordillera Ranch. We’ve been very fortunate that our General Manager and Developers share that desire and have invested in our team to get better both professionally and personally. This year, we started working with industry expert, Bruce Crowley, who consulted for us at Preston Trail. Bruce uses several tools like the Birkman Method and Total Motivation Spectrum to accurately identify what makes each individual tick, how they react under stress and how to improve. We focus on creating an environment where it’s safe to fail, but success is highly sought after. Each individual is trying to grow through healthy competition while also achieving a common goal — serve the membership.

This award means a lot to me as my mentor and his mentor, Bill Eschenbrenner, both won the Bill Strausbaugh award at the national level — as you can imagine, that is one of my career

new ideas to help people enjoy the game. For example, she started a clinic for guys who are new to the game this year and the turnout has been great. Katie also pioneered the concept for Fairway Fest where we used other sports in addition to golf to create a 9-hole competition on the golf course. In addition to her group instruction initiatives, she also teaches individual lessons to players of all abilities, she’s a great fitter and an accomplished player. We are honored to have her on our team and excited that she’s being recognized for pursuing her passion.

As mentioned above, I also won an award — the 2022 STPGA Bill Strausbaugh Award. This award is focused on mentorship and advancement of PGA Professionals. I came to Cordillera Ranch in 2019 after serving eight years at Preston Trail in Dallas, Texas. While at PT, I was mentored by the 2018 PGA National Bill Strausbaugh Award recipient, Cameron Doan. Cameron, with the support of the membership, has built a training ground

goals. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is you have to fully understand what you have and then figure out how to make it better — in order to do that, you must try to get better every day. One of the questions I ask our young professionals on a regular basis is, “What have you done to make us better today?” I do it so much that they usually laugh first before responding, but it makes them think. Cameron helped me learn how to become a better thinker and I’m trying to pass that down to the next generation of golf professionals.

Marc DeWall, General Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, adds, “Corey has done an absolutely remarkable job mentoring our professional staff here at Cordillera Ranch. While Corey has many strengths as a PGA Professional, I believe his mentoring skills are his number one asset as a golf professional for many reasons… I have seen significant growth in our staff professionals and how they have learned to deal with difficult

Katie Dillard

situations. Corey is not afraid to have the tough conversations but at the same time does a very good job of praising his team when things go right. This is the mark of a good leader. Most importantly, I know how much Corey cares about the team members that work for him because of the amount of time he spends with them. He provides support on a personal and professional level which already has made a significant impact on them.”

Our membership at Cordillera Ranch benefits from this culture as we have a high-functioning team that is driven to enhance their experience. For example, Jacques LeBlanc, who is our current Head Professional and has been here since 2017, has had his hands on every part of our operation. Jacques has grown significantly over the last few years and is ready

to lead his own golf operation. Knowing this was coming, we hired Mark Bober as our First Assistant last year and Jacques has been coaching him up to take over his role when the time comes. Jacques will be missed, but the team won’t skip a beat because we are prepared.

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.

Katie Dillard is the Player Development Coordinator at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. She can be reached at kdillard@cordilleraranch.com and 830.336.4653.

2023 GOLF CLUB CALENDAR

MGA KICKOFF, January 21

SPRING COUPLES PUTTING, February 19

EL COMPADRE, March 3-4

•• AERIFY GREENS, March 6-9

CWGA ST. PATRICK’S DAY, March 15

MATCHPLAY (Men & Women), March 24-26

AZALEA INVITATIONAL, April 7

CWGA – FIESTA, April 12-13

C-STAR, April 27-29

CWGA LONE STAR, May 10-11

CORDILLERA CUP, May 20-21

MGA SALUTE TO SUMMER, June 3

SENIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP, June 24-25

JUNIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP, June 24-25

PATRIOT PARTNERSHIP, July 4

•• AERIFY/VERTICUT FAIRWAYS & TEES, July 17-24

LADIES’ CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP, September 13-14

MEN’S CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP, September 15-17 RANCH ROUND-UP, October 3-5

•• AERIFY GREENS, October 9-11

CWGA HALLOWEEN, October 25 MGA CUP / FALL STABLEFORD, October 28

CWGA POINTS RACE FINAL, November 1 FALL COUPLES PUTTING, November 5

FAIRWAY FEST, November 11

CWGA TURKEY SHOOT, November 15 MGA TURKEY SHOOT, November 18

THE GAUNTLET, December 1 CWGA HOLIDAY HOOPLA, December 6

Our Match Play event will be conducted over a weekend in 2023 for men and women (competing separately). Our intent is to rotate this event every two years between over a weekend and schedule on your own over three months.

Fairway Fest was a new kids event in 2022 and will return in 2023. Please note, this event is conducted in the afternoon and only uses a small portion of the golf course. This event has a minimal impact to regular play. Our Couples Golf events are going to be revamped for 2023. In addition to the two scheduled putting tournaments, we’ll have two 9-hole events and two 18-hole events. Details will be announced after the first of the year.

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DUPR: INNOVATE THE GAME. UNIFY THE SPORT.

By Joe De Luna, Director of Tennis and Pickleball

The growth of pickleball at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch has exploded over the last couple of years. We have more members playing now than ever before and it is great to see so many members of all levels participating in open play, tournaments, clinics, mixers and rating sessions. Because of this growth, we have announced our new official partnership with DUPR, the most accurate global rating system for pickleball and trusted by the world’s premier private clubs, professional tours and recreational players alike.

WHAT IS DUPR?

Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating, as mentioned, is the most accurate rating system for pickleball. All players regardless of age, gender, location or skill are rated on the same scale between 2.00-8.00 based on their match results.

WHO CAN HAVE A DUPR RATING?

DUPR is free and anyone can have a rating. One match result is all it takes to have a DUPR rating, and five to ten match results is all it takes to have an even more accurate rating. If you’ve ever played in a pickleball tournament, you most likely already have a DUPR.

HOW IS THE DUPR RATING CALCULATED?

DUPR is a modified Elo algorithm that uses a player’s last 30 (singles) or 60 (doubles) eligible matches. The algorithm considers three factors:

1. Points Won: How many points did you win?

2. Victory: Did you win or lose?

3. Type of Result: Was this a self-posted rec play score, a league match, unsanctioned tournament or a sanctioned tournament result?

The Bryan Brothers, Mike and Bob Bryan

WHY IS DUPR BETTER THAN OTHER PICKLEBALL RATINGS?

In addition to being more accurate, DUPR is the only global rating system in pickleball that encompasses all of a player’s results and rates all players on the same universal scale regardless of age or gender.

WHAT WILL CORDILLERA RANCH USE DUPR FOR?

It is important you get a DUPR because your rating will be used for entry into all Club programming — clinics, leagues and ladders and for skill assessment and improvement tracking with lessons.

DO POINTS SCORED IN A MATCH AFFECT RATING?

Yes! Fight for every point and every game because they all count — not just wins and losses like traditional ranking systems.

WHAT IF I AM UNRATED AND I PLAY AGAINST OTHER UNRATED PLAYERS?

That’s okay! Those scores will retroactively count once you or the other players play against someone who does have a DUPR. This is called “connectivity.”

WHERE DO I BEGIN?

STEP ONE: DUPR RATING SESSIONS

The Tennis and Pickleball Club at Cordillera Ranch is excited to offer opportunities for individuals to build their official rating through DUPR. To join our DUPR Match Sessions, you must first create a free DUPR account by simply downloading the app at www.MyDUPR.com. Then, sign up for a DUPR Rating Session based on either a self-rating or a current DUPR rating. An official rating is not required to play in these DUPR Rating Sessions.

During DUPR Rating Sessions, players are expected to record all matches on the designated clipboard, provided by the Tennis and Pickleball Club staff at the time of the session.

After about 10 matches are logged on your profile, you will receive an official DUPR rating. You will then get entered into a restricted rating group that will allow you to register for our Official Rated Play.

STEP TWO: OFFICIAL RATED PLAY

Once you have logged about 10 matches through our Match Sessions, you are now ready to join our Official Rated Play! This is essentially an open play for players within your specific rating group, allowing for more quality-controlled play and for each of you to continue to build your DUPR scores. The Tennis and Pickleball Club staff check DUPR ratings and update the specified member groups weekly in the case that players move to another level bracket.

In the end, getting your DUPR rating is helpful for the Tennis and Pickleball Club staff to place you in the right groups of similar level for you to have the most fun and competitive matches as possible. You don’t have to have a DUPR rating to play pickleball but is a great way to track your improvement.

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

CHANGE IS GOOD!

OUT WITH THE OLD & IN WITH THE NEW

By Tamra Christiansen, Director of Fitness and Wellness

Just like the human body, we like to be in a state of homeostasis: a balanced state of well-being. We like things to stay the same, but sometimes change is good. I venture to say that self-induced change is wonderful when it comes to fitness. Our bodies are designed to be as efficient as possible, so when we do the same thing over and over, our muscles seem to say, “Meh, I am just going to go through the motions.”

“What doesn’t change you doesn’t challenge you.”

I taught Les Mills Body Pump for many years and they stated that when participants use the same release or routine for more than two to three weeks, they simply don’t work as hard; they go through the motions. Those classes are done to music and certain beats. Imagine if you are in your own routine in the Fitness Center on the machines: we might get caught up in “going through the motions.”

Being present in a workout doesn’t mean you have to meditate, though meditating has so many benefits for you, but that is for another article. Your workout is your ME time so use it to the fullest. As you are driving or walking to the Fitness Center, create a way to bring your mind to focus on what you will do during your workout. Let go of the calls, the lists, the extra thoughts. Think about how good it will feel to elevate your heart rate. Consider how much effort you are going to give yourself. If you are going to a Pilates class, think of how much strength and length your muscles are getting. If you are attending a cycle class, imagine how the beat is going to move your feet and legs. Gratitude is huge for our psyche. Ponder on gratitude for your health, that you have a beautiful place to work out and the things your body CAN do. Many focus on what is wrong with their bodies but there is so much we can do around any injury. This is before you even enter the gym!

I have two points to make in this article.

One: how to be present in your workouts.

Two: how to vary your program, even if in small ways.

During the workout, take a second to let go of your busy brain and focus on everything in your workout. Ask yourself, “Where can I challenge myself today? What do I need to scale back on? How is my energy? Did I hydrate before I started? What am I working?” Staying in your workout moment gives you the opportunity to know what body parts to warm up for the workout you are doing. And, while you are lifting or bringing up the heart rate on the cardio equipment, be “in” the muscles you’re working. It is proven that when one thinks about what they are working and where in their body they feel a particular move, two things will happen: you become more body aware and your muscles work that much harder because you have connected with them. Brain to muscle — neuromuscular awareness — creates better tone.

Next, I want to discuss varying your program. There is an ebb and flow to life — highs and lows, some days are easier, some harder; etc. Whether you have a seasonal or monthly set of workouts, your body appreciates the challenge. I have said it and I mean it: we are all athletes in our own way. Endurance athletes have seasons and different workouts throughout those times so that their body is challenged at peak times and has an appropriate amount of recovery for the next challenge ahead. Your body needs that kind of variance, too, even if for

your golf season verses your pickleball season or your hunting season verses your ski season. Some do more ELDOA, yoga and stretching to gain more flexibility or calmer workouts in busy holiday seasons. Sometimes we have been practicing and working so hard, we just need to undo tangled and overworked muscles with flexibility and lighter workouts. Adding in or taking away can both be beneficial to your workout regimen. Others will take an extra strength class or add a second leg day prior to a ski trip.

One of the BEST reasons to change your routine is this: you will work harder and you will stick with your workouts. A huge factor in gym fallout is boredom. The moment your workout feels like a chore or feels too much like a routine, change it! For those who love a routine and don’t want to change their workout, good news — you can change how you do your routine. Try doing your workout timed rather than counting reps. Do set one for 60 seconds then make the second set heavier for 45 seconds. You can also change the order of your workouts. Try doing your workout as a circuit. Do a set to one song and incorporate cardio blasts into your routine. There are so many ways to make your workouts challenging, balanced, fun and most of all, continuous.

Our trainers and instructors are here to help motivate you in 2023! We are happy to set up a workout for you, even if it means that you practice a routine for a couple of months and change it up to shake it up.

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.

FROM CASUAL LUNCHES TO

By Marc DeWall, General Manager

World-Class Wine Dinners

The Club’s new Director of Food and Beverage defines fine dining and uses a quality-first approach to turn any meal into the most extraordinary experience.

We are excited to introduce our new Director of Food and Beverage, Michael McClellan, and welcome him to Cordillera Ranch! Michael is from San Antonio and has an impeccable reputation as being one of the best in his field. He is going to bring a wealth of experience from his time spent at some of the finest restaurants, hotels and private clubs in Texas.

Michael has a terrific resume that includes Director of F&B St. Anthony Hotel, GM Signature at La Cantera Resort, GM Supper at Hotel Emma and most recently as opening GM of Carriqui Restaurant at the Pearl. He also previously served as F&B Director at UT Golf Club in Austin. Michael’s background and experience are impressive, and after thorough vetting we realized he possessed all of the skills we were looking for in our next Director of Food and Beverage. He is an excellent communicator and understands the importance of building relationships. He is a great team builder and his experience at various levels of fine dining will serve our members well.

We truly believe Michael is going to fit very well with our membership and continue to grow and enhance the dining experiences here at the Club. We asked him to share his most valuable lessons learned from his years in the industry and how they ignited a passion for creating the most exceptional dining experiences.

The hospitality industry has changed so much from when I started, especially in the fine dining realm. When I first got started in the hospitality industry, fine dining is what really intrigued me the most. It was all about being as close to perfection as possible — pushing the limits on the food and service. It is a sophisticated, well-orchestrated performance from every aspect — think of a Broadway performance with the very best talent.

I always found fine dining is traditionally the most expensive dining experience, typically multiple courses based off a prix fixe menu thoughtfully designed by the Chef. The service

standards are very strict, elegantly presented and very professional. From this, I emphasize a quality-first philosophy and focus on providing an excellent experience and great value through exceptional food, a great atmosphere and impeccable service. I know that any success I have had is a result of this mindset and philosophy. That was what fine dining taught me very early on and I use this strategy in my approach to hospitality.

Overall, I’m a product of all my experiences in the industry. I have been fortunate enough to work for so many great Chefs and industry leaders. We always valued each and every customer like they’re our only one. The goal was always perfection in food, service and atmosphere each and every day. We called it fine dining. But now you can have as amazing a meal in the neighborhood café as you can in an expensive fine-dining establishment. Like these holes-in-the-wall restauranteurs, the best operators simply focus on providing excellent food and service and not on how others define their establishment.

Early in my career, I was taught the importance of visiting every table, customer and team member. I have continued this throughout my career, regardless of the type of food or establishment. This simple tactic yields huge results in relationship building, feedback and quality control. I believe this is a tremendous opportunity to join Cordillera Ranch and contribute in building to the great culture of hospitality already present here at the Club. It is an honor to be on the team and we will work to create consistent, great dining experiences for you and your guests.

I look forward to meeting you and hope you will stop and say hello when you’re at the Club.

Michael McClellan is the Director or Food and Beverage at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at mmcclellan@cordilleraranch.com and 210.717.2146.

TASTE!

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CLASSIFICATION: THE 1855

In 1855, Napoleon III, emperor of France, decided to throw a Universal Exposition in Paris, a kind of world’s fair, and wanted all the country’s wines represented. He invited Bordeaux’s Chamber of Commerce to arrange an exhibit. The members of the Chamber knew a hornet’s nest when they saw one, so they passed the buck. They agreed, according to their records, to present “all our crus classés, up to the fifth-growths,” but asked the Syndicat des Courtiers, an organization of wine merchants, to draw up “an exact and complete list of all the red wines of the Gironde that specifies in which class they belong.”

noun

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

By Jeffrey M. Cohen, CMS, Wine Specialist

The courtiers hardly even paused to think; two weeks later, they turned in the famous list. It included 58 châteaus: four first-growths, 12 seconds, 14 thirds, 11 fourths and 17 fifths. They expected controversy. “You know as well as we do, Sirs, that this classification is a delicate task and bound to raise questions; remember that we have not tried to create an official ranking, but only to offer you a sketch drawn from the very best sources.”

Curiously, all of the courtiers’ selections came from the Médoc, with the single exception of Haut-Brion (they also ranked the sweet white wines of Sauternes and Barsac). It’s not that other wine regions weren’t active; the Graves boasted a much longer history, and Cheval-Blanc in Saint-Émilion and Canon in Fronsac were highly regarded by the early 19th century. But the 18th century revolution in wine quality took hold first and most firmly in the Médoc.

Reaction to the classification was heated. The courtiers’ original list ranked the châteaus by quality within each class, so, for example, Mouton Rothschild appeared at the head of the seconds. But undoubtedly responding to criticism, they wrote the chamber in early September insisting that no such hierar-

chy had been intended, so the chamber rearranged the list of each class into alphabetical order.

Since 1855, many changes have occurred in the châteaus’ names, owners, vineyards and wine quality, and because of divisions in the original estates, there are now 61 châteaus on the list. But if an estate can trace its lineage to the classification, it retains its claim to crus classé status. The only formal revision came in 1973 when, after half a century of unceasing effort, Baron Philippe de Rothschild succeeded in having Mouton elevated to first-growth status.

I wanted to give just a little bit of history of how things are classified in the world of wine, mainly France. Over the course of the year, many of these wines have been procured by the Club for your dining enjoyment. It is a challenge to get these wines regularly and as soon as they are consumed it leaves me trying to find replacements. Some of the wines to talk about are the Château Haut-Brion, Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou and the Château Lynch-Bages. These all are Cabernet Sauvignon dominant wines. Another that was just brought in was the Château Angélus, which is a Saint-Émilion Grand Cru that will be Merlot dominant. All of these wines are made in an old-world style that will totally encompass the “place.” They might seem earthy at first before the fruit comes through. These are quite different than the domestic wines where the winemak-

ing is made to be all about the fruit. Whichever style you like, all of these wines will pair nicely with beef and game.

One dish that is well known is the Beef Wellington. It is perfect for the French wines. I will break down the ingredients and why it will be so harmonious. First you start with a super lean beef tenderloin. A mushroom-duxelles is added to the top of your tenderloin with fresh truffles. These both bring out the earthiness of the wine. The richness comes from the buttery, flaky, puff pastry, which will surround the steak as it bakes to a perfect golden brown. It is also traditional to finish off with some sort of rich sauce like a port wine demi-glace. To complement the wine even further, dark berries can be added to the demi-glace.

If there is wine left over, you can certainly pair the rest with dessert or have a second bottle. A deep dark chocolate torte will certainly be nice. The tannins from the chocolate will balance with the wine’s tannins. Another dessert that will work, are chocolate covered strawberries!

Happy holidays to all of you and let’s all wish for a happy and healthy New Year!

Jeffrey M. Cohen, CMS, is the Wine Specialist/Beverage Manager at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. He can be reached at jcohen@cordilleraranch.com and 210.677.9234.

HILL COUNTRY WINTER OUTDOORS IN THE

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter

With the often-mild winters we see in the Kendall County area, there’s plenty of time to remain active in and around Cordillera Ranch.

Hunting is the most popular winter outdoor activity, but there are many other options.

If you’re not a hunter but you’re a gun and shooting enthusiast, then you should definitely try the Sporting Clays course or Wobble Trap, 5-stand and flush field at the Gun Club, or come out and shoot at our hand gun range or rifle range. The Gun Club is located on the far west end of the Ranch in a beautiful Texas Hill Country setting.

If you are interested in a bird or deer hunt, we have a great relationship with our friends at Joshua Creek Ranch. Only 30 minutes from Cordillera Ranch, Joshua Creek Ranch occupies a uniquely diverse terrain including miles of Joshua Creek and Guadalupe River bottomland planted in fields of grain crops for prime pheasant hunting habitat; bordered by limestone bluffs that rise to oak and elm studded pastures lush with prairie grasses providing perfect quail hunting cover; and densely wooded areas conducive to Texas deer hunting, both Whitetail and Axis. You’ll call it paradise when you experience the combination of this pristine hunt country with the outstanding cuisine and up-scale lodging accommodations at Joshua Creek Ranch. They also offer a long-range rifle range, going all the way out to 1,000 yards. Our rifle range at Cordillera Ranch only goes out to 200 yards. With the recent drought conditions and low water flow on the Upper Guadalupe River, we have been traveling to other central Texas rivers and streams to fish. Lake Austin is only 80 miles northwest of Cordillera Ranch and offers some great kayak fishing opportunities. The San Marcos River is 55 miles east and offers some outstanding bass fishing. The State of Texas recently stocked the San Marcos River with Rock Bass and they are fun to catch on both a fly rod and conventional fishing rod and reel.

Have you ever noticed that fly fishing is always done in beautiful places? That’s why the lower Guadalupe below Canyon Lake is the perfect place for fly fishing in the Texas Hill Country! The state and Trout Unlimited both stock the lower Guadalupe

with Rainbow and Brown Trout. It’s a short drive from Cordillera Ranch for some great trout fishing in the winter! The Blanco River, just north of Cordillera Ranch, is another stocked river that provides some trout fishing in the winter months. If you have not had the opportunity to get on the Club’s newest fishing vessel, our FlyCraft, you should book a trip with us to fish for trout on the lower Guadalupe River in Sattler or for bass on the upper Guadalupe River.

Other rivers in the area are great as well for warm water species in winter including the Frio, Nueces and Sabinal River near Bandera. But by far, the best river to fish in South Texas during the winter months is the Devils River. The Devils River is one of the most rugged and pristine rivers in the U.S. Very few people get to experience the phenomenal fishing and scenery because of the guarded access. The best fishing begins at Baker’s Crossing and continues for more than 23 miles downriver. Whether you’re a tent camper or a cabin camper looking for the ultimate fishing trip, the Devils River has both options.

As the Outfitter for the members of The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, I can guide or arrange for your family or guests to do a variety of outdoor recreation activities, so don’t hesitate to contact me. Whether you’re looking for an upland bird hunt, an offshore fishing trip, a family camping adventure or a backpacking trip to a secluded wilderness area, it’s my pleasure to be of service to you.

Have a great winter!

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.

GOOD COMPANY COZY CAMPFIRES

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter

Some of the greatest amenities that Cordillera Ranch have to offer are its parks and trail system that include access to the Guadalupe River and the spring fed creeks on the Ranch. The River Park at Cordillera Ranch has five campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, barb-q pit, fire pit and trash can. All Cordillera Ranch property owners and Club members may reserve these campsites through the Property Owners Association for no fee. If you want to take it up a notch, the Clubs’ Outfitter offers a full line of camping gear to rent and a full-service campsite setup and strike service for our Club members.

Camping with family is a great way to re-connect with each other through a shared experience. When parents go to work and kids go to school on a daily schedule, family members experience separate realities. But sharing the same tent on a family camping trip has a way of uniting and strengthening family bonds. Here are a few reasons to go camping.

QUALITY TIME TOGETHER

Use camping as an excuse to limit your use of screen time, cut back on distractions and turn to each other to supply the entertainment. Statistics show that teens like to camp because they see their parents relaxing. Find fun things to do and immerse yourself in the company of family.

MULTI-GENERATIONAL OUTING

Bring generations of family together at a campsite at Cordillera Ranch. Grandparents want to join in the family camping fun, too! But if camping is not an option for them, grandparents can stay in one of our Lodges at the Club while the kids and parents sleep in a tent. During the day, enjoy activities together.

EXPLORE A NEW ENVIRONMENT

A simple change of environment can create a fresh perspective. Depend on family members to help navigate new experiences — you don’t have to go far away to try something new. Get to know

the natural beauty of Cordillera Ranch — the sounds at night outside will certainly be a thrill and experience for the kids!

TIME OUTDOORS

Let the outdoors invigorate your senses. Quietly observe animals in their natural habitats. Sit on camp chairs and take in a sunset and the sparkling night sky from a campsite. Feel the natural cool air of a winter or spring morning against your skin.

NEW SKILLS

Grandparents and parents have tons of knowledge to pass down to the younger generations. Convey some of that education during a camping trip such as pitching a tent together, starting a campfire and cooking outdoors — useful teaching moments and accomplishments that everyone will feel good about.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Camping, by nature, is a physical activity. Setting up tents, prepping food and building a fire takes energy. Then pick an activity the whole family would enjoy like horseback riding or river kayaking to experience together. Feel refreshed and healthy when you breathe in clean Hill Country air, swim in the river or feel a sense of awe waking to a large axis buck outside your tent.

Contact Shane Reynolds with questions about making the most of your Cordillera Ranch camping 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.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

at Home and Abroad

LOS SUEÑOS RESORT IN COSTA RICA

FEBRUARY 20-25, 2023

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director and Outfitter

FLY FISHING COLORADO’S BACKCOUNTRY JULY 12-17, 2023

Because of its popularity, this will be the third time we venture to Costa Rica, a country not only rich is biodiversity, but in culture and in happiness.

Los Sueños Resort and Marina is a hotspot for both inshore and offshore fishing. Costa Rica’s waters literally teen with big game: dorado averaging 40 lb, yellowfin tuna that push the 300lb mark and one of the largest concentrations of big Pacific sailfish found anywhere. The Los Sueños Marina is home to an extensive charter fleet certified by the Costa Rican Ministry of Tourism. It is not just the offshore fishing that is good in this area, the inshore fishing offers a great opportunity for 50lb+ roosterfish and 40lb+ dorado. You can try your hand at trying to catch these on a fly rod as well as regular spinning rods.

The resort also offers golf. The La Iguana Golf Course features 18 championship holes with a 73.4 course rating, par-72 and slope 145. Playing the 6,698-yard Ted Robinson-designed golf course in Costa Rica would be any golfer’s dream. The golf course is richly landscaped to include exotic native plants, with monkeys and more than 150 species of birds and local wildlife.

This trip accommodates a minimum of eight participants and a maximum of 12.

It was 26 years ago when I first wet a line in a high-mountain lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, and I was hooked forever. Fishing these lakes interested me in backpacking — often the only way to fish some of the more remote alpine lakes. I enjoyed the solitude of the backcountry and not having to compete for choice waters. As the Director of Outdoor Adventures at UCLA, I would plan backcountry backpacking trips for students, and little did they know, our destination was an alpine fishing stream or lake. I honed my dry-fly fishing skills, caught more trout in an afternoon than you could shake a rod at. Best of all, I enjoyed swapping fishing tales with close friends and sharing what I learned.

One of the special things about working at Cordillera Ranch is getting to travel with our Club members and introducing them to some of the great outdoor recreation opportunities in this wonderful country of ours. When a few members asked me about doing something special next summer, I spoke to them about visiting the high country of Colorado. For most people who live, work and play here in Texas, the alpine setting of a high mountain range is usually only a passing thought.

Colorado’s 2,000 high lakes are the remnants of our last glacial episode that ended about 12,000 years ago. These lakes are located primarily along the crest of the Continental Divide, in the Flat Tops of northwest Colorado and in the Sangre de Cristo Range of southern Colorado. Elevations at most lakes are between 9,000 and 12,500 feet. Ninety percent are less than 20 acres in size, and three-quarters are less than 30 feet deep, making them easily fishable with a fly rod. Most can be fished from shore for at least part of the open water season.

Although more than half of the high lakes today contain trout, few high lakes in Colorado originally contained fish. People

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch offer the finest in outdoor recreation and through Signature Vacations, this same level of attention is considered with a variety of exclusive trips designed to appeal to the many interests of Club members. While the calendar fills for 2023, here are two vacations planned for outdoor enthusiasts.

began stocking the lakes as soon as they settled the state, and by 1900 most lakes contained an assortment of different species of trout. In the majority of these lakes, only brookies and lakers can successfully reproduce so other species must be stocked periodically to maintain populations. Today, Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks a large number of these lakes on a regular basis and introduces predominantly inch-long cutthroat trout — greenback hybrids to the east of the Divide, Rio Grande cutthroats to the west of the Divide in the southern mountains, and Colorado River cutthroats to the west of the Divide elsewhere. Brookies persist in many lakes, often overpopulating the lakes and seldom reaching 12 inches. However, in some lower elevation lakes where populations are sparse, we catch brook trout up to 20 inches. Cutthroats grow slowly in the cold mountain waters, reaching 12 inches in three years, 16 inches in five years, and topping out at over 20 inches. They can live for up to 14 years.

Anglers will be pleased to know that fishing high lakes has many similarities to fishing lower elevation streams and rivers. However, there are also many differences. Fish respond to weather, water conditions and insect life similarly in both types of water. In rivers and streams, the water is moving and the fish are primarily stationary, holding in feeding lanes. However, in lakes, the water is stationary and the fish are constantly moving. Understanding the movement of trout is the key to successfully fishing high-mountain lakes. Trout in high lakes move in response to water temperature, insect hatches, light intensity and cover.

Summer brings insect activity to the high lakes and the opportunity to match the hatch. Along with temperature and insect hatches, trout in high lakes move in response to light intensity and cover. Trout move into the shallows when light is low at dawn or dusk. On cloudy days, trout are often more active and move closer to shore. However, on bright sunny days, trout often move into the deeper water to filter the bright light. Trout also move to shore under the temporary cover of a lake surface that is rippled by a stiff breeze. The broken surface diffracts light and makes trout less wary.

For the avid fly fisherman a trip into the high country is not generally what comes to mind. But I can assure anyone who ever questions whether it’s worth the work to get there, I would answer absolutely yes! It’s not an easy task by any means. For us Texans who live at or near sea level, a trip to the high country means preparing one’s self for both a mentally and physically demanding trip.

As our group prepares for this summer adventure, there are several things we will do to ensure all are prepared and have the right expectations on what to look forward to. The logistics for this trip includes a flight from San Antonio to Denver. Once in Denver, we’ll load our gear into a rental van and head west into the Rockies, making three stops along the way. One stop is for groceries, which will include backpacking gourmet meals made from fresh ingredients. As a backcountry guide for the past 30 years, I have learned that there are fewer things more enjoyable than a great meal at the end of a long day in the mountains. Our second stop will be at a local backcountry store to pick up fuel for my backpacking stoves, which you cannot fly with, and our Colorado fishing license. Our third and final stop will be in the eastern Rocky Mountains where we pick up our backcountry permits.

From there we head to our trailhead in the Rockies where the adventure begins. Our first night is spent here to acclimatize our bodies to the altitude. If you have never been at this altitude, you will be short of breath just walking across a parking lot with no backpack on. We’ll pitch camp and settle down around a campfire on night one, simply getting used to the thin air. On day two we will lay out and distribute all the group gear and food for the trip. Each person in the group will be carrying anywhere from 25 to 40 percent of their body weight in a backpack. Although I teach minimum impact and lightweight packing, people who are not used to backpacking always bring too much gear. One of my favorite teaching methods I use is a pre-trip meeting where I lay out all my gear on a tarp and let people see it. For some, they take note, but for most, they soon forget as they begin to cram pounds and pounds of unnecessary gear into their pack. Go light is my motto.

One of my favorite fly-fishing quotes is from Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and he states that “It’s not about catching the fish, it’s about the fish catching you.” This trip is sure to be a lasting memory for all who venture into the high Rockies with us!

This trip accommodates a minimum of three participants.

These exclusive Cordillera Ranch Signature Vacations are planned for our members and their guests. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Shane Reynolds.

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.

PUTS COMMUNITY FIRST

By Brianna Botine, Director of Membership and Lodging

The inaugural year of The Cordillera Cares mission has been incredibly successful. Charlie Hill announced the initiative in July with a YouTube video highlighting the three organizations that Cordillera Cares would support in 2022: Hill Country Family Services, Boerne Blaze and Kendall County Sheriff’s Foundation. The committee, made up of Brianna Botine, Victoria DeRocher, Amy Schoemaker and Kathi Spink, coordinate the different projects and organize our Cordillera Ranch team.

From July through December, there were five opportunities for employees to volunteer their time. We are proud to announce that more than 50 employees stepped up to the challenge and their excitement to get involved has been contagious!

Our first mission was to support Hill County Family Services (www.HCFSTX.org) and their BISD Back to School Hygiene Drive. HCFS works to foster mental and physical wellness, stability and independence for individuals and families who are in crisis in Kendall County.

The Hygiene Drive supplied full-sized soap, toothpaste and other necessities so these students can head to school feeling fresh and clean, along with a few sweet treats all supplied in a reusable lunch bag. Cordillera Ranch and Cordillera Cares teamed up to provide 60 bags — 10 over goal! Some staff donated items while other team members came together to shop for supplies and stuff the bags.

This summer, the Cordillera Cares project supported Boerne Blaze, the local chapter of Special Olympics Texas. Boerne Blaze is an active group of more than 50 athletes with intellectual challenges ranging in age from 6 to 45. Cordillera Cares volunteers assisted at their annual kick-off event in July and their End-of-Season Swim Party at The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. We had 14 volunteers and hosted 75 guests at the Cordillera Ranch pool. The Cordillera Cares group did a fantastic job in helping to set up and breakdown the event. The Blaze families were blown away by the kindness of the team and look forward to many more events partnered with Cordillera Cares!

Blue Santa

Blue Santa

In September, Cordillera Cares partnered with Joe and Maureen Cheben in the Families of Cordillera Ranch Adopt-aHighway program to pick up trash along Highway 46. We had 11 volunteers and were able to collect 21 bags of trash and a lot of loose construction material.

We also partnered with the Hill Country Family Services to volunteer at their 7th Annual Outdrive Hunger Golf Tournament. The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch was the Golf Course Sponsor and we had eight volunteers to help work different holes on the course.

Our final mission was to partner with the Kendall County Sherriff’s Office Foundation Blue Santa Program. This annual event helps the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office provide Christmas presents for children in need throughout Kendall County. We met with the Sheriff's Foundation and

determined the best way we could help would be to donate stockings to every child that signed up for Blue Santa. Each stocking was gender specific and broken up by age group from 0-5, 6-10 and 11 and older. The goal was to make each stocking something the kids would be really excited about and included toys, something to read, stocking caps, candy and so much more!

The Blue Santa mission was introduced to The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch members and Cordillera Ranch community. On our kick-off night at the Gold Rush Ugly Sweater event, we asked members to help sponsor stockings for $25 apiece. Our goal was to get 400 stockings sponsored. The response was overwhelming as we had over 500 sponsored stockings by the end of the event!

The next step was to get the stockings

stuffed! Employees, members and residents selected days and times to come stuff in the “Santa’s Workshop.” The Christmas spirit was truly alive as employees were able to hear the laughter and love coming from the workshop.

The final step to Blue Santa was to help the Kendall County Sheriff’s Foundation by handing out the stockings at their Blue Santa event on Saturday, December 17.

The Cordillera Cares committee is excited to continue to support these three organizations through 2023 and see all the new ways we can give back to our incredible community.

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

Families of Cordillera Ranch Adopt-a-Highway

Families of Cordillera Ranch Adopt-a-Highway

Blue Santa Blue Santa

BERGHEIM MEMORIAL SHOPPING CENTER

By Ann Koehler

Two Boerne/Kendall County residents and businessmen respond to growth in the Bergheim area with a new convenience store and gas station at the intersection of SH 46 and Voss Parkway.

The developers, Cordillera Ranch resident Jason Hirko and his business partner James Schuepbach, recognized the need for more businesses in Bergheim and purchased the 4.8-acre property in 2017 when construction of the adjacent Voss Middle School was announced. Both men’s backgrounds led to this venture, having worked on numerous types of projects from multi-family, restaurants, shopping centers and business parks: Jason said he began investing in residential real estate in 2010 in Southeast Texas and expanded into commercial real estate in San Antonio and the Hill Country in 2015, including several historic properties on Main Street in Boerne. James, with Ryoak Real Estate Group, has been in commercial real estate since 2005 and has completed numerous ground-up construction projects including a 292-unit multi-family project in Southtown, San Antonio. “This is our first convenience store and gas station. We decided on this type of project because we felt there was a need for an alternative to the Valero in Bergheim. Our convenience store has a full commercial kitchen that will serve a variety of freshly prepared food, which is the biggest void in Bergheim,” said Jason.

The new business consists of a 6,000-square foot convenience store and gas station as well as a 7,700 square feet of shopping center for a total of 13,700 square feet. The developers were intentional with upgrades to the building and surrounding land to make sure the project didn’t end up looking like your average gas station. Some examples of this attention to detail were the developers’ use of high-end materials such as locally sourced Ashlar stone, Nichiha Vintagewood architectural panels and native plants and grasses throughout the project. They also engaged with two local firms, Grit Co. and Manifestive Design, to design a hand-painted mural that highlights Bergheim, Kendall County, Boerne ISD and the Guadalupe River.

The convenience store is operated by “Halftime” and the fuel is provided from Chevron. Halftime is a new brand from Karim Ali who currently owns and operates approximately 50 “Big’s” convenience stores in South Texas, including the location on Highway 46 at Herff Road in Boerne at the Longhorn Cafe. His company is in the process of rebranding his stores as Halftime,

which is a sports-themed concept. The new store will have a full kitchen and provide a variety of food options to include “Hanger54” pizza and “Champs” chicken.

One of the first tenants in the shopping center is “The Cup,” a new coffee and restaurant concept from Karen and Eric Cate. Eric is the Pastor of Bergheim Christian Fellowship, a new church plant sponsored by Currey Creek Church in Boerne. They are currently holding services at Voss Middle School every Sunday. The Cup is affiliated with the church and will help with their ministry. The developers are working with the owner of Botero in Boerne to expand dining options for families in the Bergheim area, and have signed a lease with Texas Treasures Fine Art to move the high-end art gallery to the property. A recent purchase of adjoining property to the east of Halftime will bring more restaurant, retail and office space to Bergheim.

In addition to this project bringing needed services to the Bergheim area, it will also give back to the community. A portion of the proceeds from this project will be donated to The Wounded Warrior Project, and Chevron has agreed to match

this donation dollar-for-dollar. “The Kendall County community is very supportive of our United States military and with the middle school being named after Mark T. Voss, a fallen Airforce serviceman and Boerne ISD student, we believe that our commitment to helping The Wounded Warrior Project will engage the community with this important effort and will be reflective of the values of Boerne and Kendall County,” shared James whose father and father-in-law were both disabled military veterans.

This project was not without its challenges, from Covid-related labor shortages, supply chain issues, to wild material cost fluctuations. However, the developers said the positive feedback from the community who welcomes more businesses to Bergheim has made it worthwhile. Chevron and Halftime, along with The Cup, opened in December, with projected openings for the other two businesses in the first quarter of 2023.

Bergheim Memorial Shopping Center

919 E. State Highway 46, Bergheim, Texas 78004

Jason Hirko, Karim Ali, Hasanain Ali, James Schuepbach

Jason Hirko and James Schuepbach show off the new mural that captures the area’s heritage.

BOERNE ISD HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ARE

FIRED UP!

The Boerne Independent School District is a driving factor for the continuous growth in Boerne/Kendall County, with a current student population of more than 10,600. In 2022, BISD received its third consecutive ‘A’ rating with a grade of 94 in The Texas Education Agency’s statewide Student Testing and Accountability ratings for the 2021-22 school year, among only one percent of districts across the state to receive an ‘A’ rating in each of the three rating periods.

While the district shines academically, the athletic departments at both district high schools are equally and consistently recognized as well. Based on UIL Lone Star Cup rankings, Boerne High School Greyhounds placed 4th out of 213 high schools in the 4A classification for the school year 2021-22, and Boerne-Champion High School Chargers placed 10th out of 253 5A high schools. This is the district’s third achievement in recent years, with Boerne ranking 3rd and Champion 10th in 2020-21 and Boerne 18th and Champion 9th in 2018-19.

Each high school offers baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, cross country, football, golf, swim & dive, tennis, track & field and volleyball, with the introduction of a boys and girls water polo pilot program at Champion this year. Nearly every sport at both schools makes it to the playoffs year after year, and with seven levels of playoff competition — Bi-District, Area, Regional Quarter Finals, Regional Semi-Finals, Regional Finals, State Semi-Finals and finally the State Championship — it’s an impressive feat. And one that our community is very aware of with the success of Greyhound Football!

The following accolades are based on sports played between 2021 and 2022 unless otherwise noted.

Greyhounds Boys and Girls Cross Country State Qualifiers 2022

Greyhounds Football State Finalists 2022

Chargers Girls Cross Country State Finalists 2022

BOERNE GREYHOUNDS

DAN COOK CUP – 2021 & 2022

BASEBALL

Class of 2022 Graduate Cole Phillips drafted by Atlanta Braves

SOFTBALL

Regional Quarter Finalists – 2022

BOYS BASKETBALL

State Semi-Finalists – 2021 & 2022

GIRLS BASKETBALL

State Finalists – 2021 Regional Finalists – 2022

BOYS SOCCER

State Championship – 2021 & 2022

GIRLS SOCCER

State Semi-Finalists – 2022

CROSS COUNTRY

Boys: State Finalists – 2022 Girls: Fourth Place – 2022

FOOTBALL

State Finalists – 2022

GOLF

Boys: State Finalists –2021 & 2022

TENNIS

Team: State Finalists – 2022

Boys Singles: Justin Koth – 2022

Boys: Region IV Champs – 2022

TRACK & FIELD

Individual medalists at State level

CHAMPION CHARGERS

SOFTBALL

Area Finalists – 2022

BOYS BASKETBALL

State Semi-Finalists – 2021

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Bi-District Finalists – 2021

GIRLS SOCCER

State Semi-Finalists – 2022

CROSS COUNTRY

Girls: State Finalists –2018, 2021 & 2022

Girls: State Championship –2019 & 2020

FOOTBALL

Area Finalists – 2021

GOLF

Boys: State Finalists – 2021

SWIM & DIVE

Girls 200 Freestyle Relay – 2021

Girls 1600 Meter: Anastacia (Chachi) Gonzales – 2021 Girls 400 Freestyle Relay: Paige Clark, Kate Deykin, Peyton Brehmer, Regan Garcia – 2021

TRACK & FIELD

District Champions – 2022

VOLLEYBALL

Bi-District Finalists – 2022

WATER POLO

Boys: State Finalists – 2022 Girls: Playoffs – 2022

Greyhounds Boys Soccer State Champions 2022

Greyhounds Team Tennis State Finalists 2022

INDEPENDENCE: THE LONE STAR SPIRIT

By

Texas pride is more than a slogan — it is the spirit of the state and its residents, whether they were born here, or just “got here as fast as they could.” This fierce independence once sparked a revolution and a republic.Texas history is the stuff of legends, and its stories are preserved in many places across the state.

COMMEMORATION OPENING

CEREMONY, FEBRUARY 23, 10:00AM: February 23 was the first day of the 13-day siege leading up to the Battle of the Alamo and an opening ceremony in Alamo Plaza will commemorate the battle. There will also be living history demonstrations from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

NEVER SURRENDER OR RETREAT, FEBRUARY 24, 10:00AM: Colonel William Travis’ call for reinforcements is depicted with a reading of this important moment. Students are also invited to learn about life in the 1830s.

THE IMMORTAL 32 ARRIVE!, MARCH 1, 11:00AM TO NOON: Honoring the 32 men from Gonzales who rode through enemy lines in response to Travis’ plea, a ceremony will feature descendants of the brave men.

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION, MARCH 2, 9:00AM TO 4:00PM: Celebrate at the Alamo with music and living history demonstrations. At 6:30 a fundraiser benefitting the Remember the Alamo Foundation will include food, drink and live entertainment along with a viewing of the Alamo Collections Center. Fundraiser tickets are $250.

March 2 is Texas Independence Day, an official state holiday. On that date 187 years ago, the Republic of Texas was born. Did you know that Texas was “a whole other country” to the south of the United States, with its own Constitution, elected leadership and laws for a decade before it joined the Union? Fun fact: that is why in Texas, U.S. law gives us the right to fly the Lone Star flag of the state at the same height as the United States’ star-spangled banner.

THE ALAMO

The Alamo is the holy grail of Texas heritage, and by far the most famous battle of Texas’ War of Independence against Mexico. On March 6, 1836, more than 2,000 Mexican soldiers under General Santa Anna’s command overran the Alamo after a 13-day siege. Between 182 and 257 Texian and Tejano defenders, including Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie and William Travis, were killed outright or taken prisoner and executed. Between Thursday, February 23 and Monday, March 6, Alamo history comes alive with several free memorial events featuring solemn ceremonies and costumed re-enactors.

THE ALAMO OBSERVANCE, MARCH 4, 1:00 TO 2:30PM: The Grand Lodge of Texas will honor the freemasons who died at the Alamo by laying a wreath in front of the chapel and speaking on the history of freemasonry in Texas. That evening beginning at 6:00pm, the 16th annual Evening With Heroes after-hours theatre is a guided tour of nine scenarios where guests can witness the events and conversations that took place the evening before the final attack. Timed tours are $40.

DAWN AT THE ALAMO, MARCH 6, 6:00AM: This ceremony honors the sacrifice of the Alamo defenders through descriptions of events leading up to the morning hour of the battle, readings, vignettes, music, wreath-laying and a musket volley. There will also be an evening ceremony followed by a reading of the defenders’ names.

Susan Yerkes and Trisha Doucette :: Photography courtesy of the Alamo

Never Surrender or Retreat

Evening With Heroes

Admission to the Alamo Church is always free but to preserve the historic building and reduce crowds for a memorable experience, timed reservations are required.

The Alamo, formally known as Mission San Antonio de Valero, is one of five San Antonio missions named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada, they represent the largest concentration of Spanish colonial missions in North America.

Around the corner from the Alamo, the AMC IMAX Theatre in the Shops at Rivercenter features Alamo: The Price of Freedom with daily shows. For Alamo newcomers, it is a great introduction to the heroic saga that took place in here.

THE ALAMO COLLECTIONS CENTER

In 2014, recording artist Phil Collins generously donated his priceless collection of Alamo and Texana artifacts to the Texas General Land Office, the guardian of the Alamo. Collins built the collection over decades, falling in love with the Alamo’s inspiring story at the age of 5 while watching Disney’s production of Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier. His collection contains more than 100 pieces of Alamo artifacts, weapons, relics and original documents.

On March 3, the new state-of-the-art Alamo Collections Center opens, housing the Phil Collins Collection, the Donald and Louise Yena Spanish Colonial Collection, the Alamo Collection and interactive exhibits. The two-story, 24,000-square-foot Collections Center is directly behind the Alamo Church.

OTHER BATTLES

IN

TEXAS’ FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE CONCEPCIÓN

On the grounds on Mission Concepción, a band of Texian rebels led by James Fannin and Jim Bowie won a skirmish with Santa Anna’s men in the first major conflict of the Texas Revolution.

GONZALES: COME AND TAKE IT

It was not a battle, but the first shot of the Texas Revolution was fired in the little town of Gonzales. In October 1835, as full-scale war approached, a small Mexican force was dispatched to Gonzales to reclaim a cannon that had been given to the settlers to defend against marauding Indians. The defiant town leaders refused. They made a flag showing a cannon, a star and the slogan “Come and Take It.” They fired the cannon to make their point, and won the day. Don’t miss the Gonzales Memorial Museum, featuring the original “Come and Take It” cannon.

GOLIAD, FANNIN BATTLEGROUND AND FORT DEFIANCE

Near the town of Goliad, Colonel James Fannin and his men made a stand in an old Spanish fort called Presidio La Bahia, which Fannin re-named Fort Defiance. Three weeks after the fall of the Alamo, Fannin’s outnumbered, outgunned troops surrendered to the Mexican army. Some 350 Texians were executed at Santa Anna’s orders. Today the nearby Fannin Battleground State Historic Site includes a memorial that marks the mass grave of the martyred rebels.

SAN JACINTO BATTLEGROUND

In April 1836, General Sam Houston and his men decisively defeated Santa Anna’s armies at this battlefield near Houston, shouting “Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad.” The fight lasted just 18 minutes, and when the smoke cleared and Santa Anna surrendered, Texas was free. Today, the San Jacinto Museum of History and the 567-foot-tall San Jacinto Monument draw nearly 250,000 visitors a year.

WASHINGTON-ON-THE-BRAZOS

This historic site is called “Where Texas Became Texas.” On March 2, 1836, 59 delegates adopted the Texas Declaration of Independence. The little town with the big name was the national capital of Texas from 1842 to 1845. The small, humble Independence Hall, the modern Star of the Republic Museum and the restored Barrington Plantation offer a full schedule of events and programs to visitors. The founding fathers of Texas hammered out a constitution for the new republic here — an independent nation that ruled itself from 1836 to 1846, when Texas joined the United States. But the Texas spirit of independence still reigns today.

The Texas Historical Commission’s Independence Trail maps out the places where the history of the Republic of Texas was forged and where the legendary moments are still recalled, honored and re-enacted. Today, revisionist historians debate the causes and characters of the Texas Revolution, but the stories are woven deep into the spirit of the Lone Star State.

Dawn at the Alamo

Alamo Collections Center

POA STAFF INTRODUCTIONS

By Kevin Koether, POA General Manager

Cordillera

the Property Owners Association must scale to meet the needs of our property owners.We have continued to expand our maintenance team as well as our administrative team, and we wanted to provide you a staffing update and introduction to all of the administrative staff.

Amber Flores has been a part of the administrative team for the last two years as the POA Office Manager. Amber was recently promoted to Operation Coordinator for the POA and will assist in managing multiple areas such as CCR compliance, assessment billing, resale and account compliance and gate services. She was an active volleyball athlete and has coached now for many years. She enjoys traveling to the coast to enjoy the fantastic fishing, sunshine, sand and surf. Amber and her son Ayson are also active Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners and she enjoys cheering Ayson on during his competitions.

Brandi Wright is a long-standing Cordillera Ranch team member, working for different entities over the last 17 years. Brandi has worked for the POA for the last three years and is currently the Manager of Architectural Review. Brandi works with property owners, builders and architects on assisting them through the ARC process. She reviews and notates all ARC-related documentation and presents completed files to the Architectural Review Committee. She is also the liaison between the ARC and property owners. Brandi most enjoys “working with clients to help move them through the ARC process to be able to build their dream home.” Brandi fits right into Cordillera Ranch as she and her family have a tradition of attending the NFR in Las Vegas every December.

John Myers is the POA Financial Specialist and manages the financial services department of the association. His responsibilities include accounts payable and receivable and financial reporting, and his talents also include the digitization of building plans for the POA. John has been a POA team member for almost four years and claims “I am not very interesting,” which is far from the truth. John enjoys working with the entire team and loves the game of golf. John brings a background in the banking industry

and his knowledge, skills and amazing personality are an asset to the Cordillera Ranch Property Owners Association.

Julie Mote is our newest team member, starting only a few short weeks ago. Julie was hired as the POA Office Administrator and is excited to learn more about property management, development, preservation and promotion of the beautiful Texas Hill Country. She will be the first point of contact in the POA office and will assist property owners with RFID tags, maintaining the staff calendars, scheduling property owner appointments and proactively working with the POA team to build, implement and manage systems for optimum efficiency. Like many of our residents, Julie loves to travel, having visited 20 of the 50 states in the U.S. as well as international travel including Canada, Mexico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Bahamas, England, France, Ireland, Belgium, Italy and Scotland. Julie enjoyed Italy the most “for the food and wine.”

Kevin Koether is the General Manager for Cordillera Ranch Property Owners Association and has managed the property for two-and-a-half years. Kevin manages and oversees all aspects of the POA including the POA office, POA maintenance, capital projects, financial reports, budget development and forecasting. He is also part of the Architectural Review Committee, reviewing new home construction as well as all other improvement requests. Kevin sits on the Executive Board of the local Boerne non-profit organization Legacy Farmstead and enjoys serving our veterans, first responders and their families. Kevin truly enjoys developing people and building teams for the Cordillera Ranch Property Owners Association.

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

As

Ranch continues to develop and evolve,

Julie Mote, Amber Flores, John Meyers, Kevin Koether, Brandi Wright

O PEN M INDED

By Drew Henry :: Photography by Paige to Page Photography

Paul Allen Custom Homes unveils their latest home showcasing a reimagined Spanish Colonial design, a secluded courtyard and an open floorplan that seamlessly flows inside and out.

Paul Allen Custom Homes has been a Cordillera Ranch Preferred Builder for more than a year now, and the team has settled in nicely — creating showstopping homes that take full advantage of the beautiful Hill Country landscape. A new Preferred Builder but not new to the Ranch, Paul Allen and his team have built custom homes in the Texas Hill Country since 1984. With almost four decades of experience, this group knows how to guide every client through the home-building process, from the first consultation to move-in day.

“We’re advocates of our clients,” said Director of Client Relations Brittany Mayberry. “You work with many professionals during the home-building process, including architects, contractors, showroom managers and interior designers. My job is to walk our clients through every step of the process, ensuring each professional truly understands their vision to deliver a beautiful and functional finished home they can enjoy for years to come.”

With experience in almost every facet of home design and construction, Brittany assures no detail goes unchecked. “We’re not just thinking about the finished house, but how the clients will live in the home and make it their own,” explained Brittany. “We consider how often they will entertain, their daily routine, their style preferences and even where they can place their favorite furniture and art pieces when they move in.”

For those looking to take advantage of stunning Hill Country views and fresh Texas air, check out Paul Allen Home’s latest project. “This was a Santa Barbara style home,” said Brittany. “It pulls inspiration from Spanish Revival architecture, but we brought in modern elements for contrast and a more transitional feel.” The exterior features red blend roof tiles and white stucco with the addition of oversized black Sierra Pacific windows, panoramic sliding doors from Western® Window Systems and a show-stopping arched iron entry door.

Upon entering the home, you are greeted with a stunning view through the grand great room to the private courtyard

retreat. “We designed this home for those who love indoor-outdoor living,” said Brittany. “Every room has a view, either out onto the gorgeous courtyard or overlooking the backyard pool and patio. There’s no better way to take full advantage of the Hill Country than with these outdoor spaces.” The courtyard provides a direct connection to nature and invites you in with travertine pavers that cross a babbling pond and lead to a sunken brick patio grounded by a cozy wood-burning fireplace that partially encloses the space to ensure privacy. “This par-

ticular couple loved New Orleans French Quarter charm,” added Brittany. “So, we included Old World elements like the herringbone brick lay and lanterns.”

Two outdoor areas are better than one. In addition to the courtyard, the home’s stunning back patio provides multiple spaces for relaxing, dining and comfortable conversation. The covered patio is framed by sweeping arches and offers luxurious entertaining amenities, including the fully equipped outdoor kitchen and pool with a tanning ledge.

Back inside, the home’s great room provides even more gathering space for guests. The room gives prominence to towering 23-foot ceilings accented with a striking dropdown barrel curve. “We’re known for our unique ceiling treatments,” noted Brittany. “Paul Allen himself loves to get involved with the ceiling designs for each home, adding a little something extra to the design.” This particular ceiling barrel drop-down includes cove lighting, which produces an ambient glow perfect for highlighting the architectural detail and setting the mood for any number of activities.

mented by a massive range hood directly opposite in the kitchen. “We selected matching Sienna Cut Limestone for each of these features,” said Brittany. “They were both custom carved in Mexico, bringing in that touch of the Old World and anchoring either side of the main living space.”

The kitchen is outfitted with a professional-grade stainless steel appliance package by Wolf® and Sub-Zero®, fit for the most avid cooks. In addition to practical features, the kitchen is designed

with luxurious finishes. “Again, we wanted that modernized Old World feel,” said Brittany. “So, we paired contrasting elements like the traditional stone range hood with the more modern pendant chandeliers over the island.” The kitchen includes Taj Mahal Quartzite counters, two-tone cabinetry and Brizo fixtures in Champagne Bronze. Additionally, there is a caterer’s kitchen for more prep and storage space, including unique features like wire mesh cabinets and even a sliding ladder.

Of course, the home includes a relaxing primary suite for the owners to unwind. The oversized bedroom is divided by a two-sided fireplace feature, creating separate sitting and sleeping areas. The adjoining bath utilizes the same Taj Mahal Quartzite counters, marble tile, gold accents and a wetroomstyle shower. Interesting ceiling details are carried throughout the entire suite, which has access to the patio and courtyard.

With multiple indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy, this Paul Allen Custom Home offers the perfect framework for Hill Country living and is a testament to the company’s designbuild philosophy.

PAUL ALLEN CUSTOM HOMES

210.493.3204 :: PaulAllenHomes.com

Transitional Mediterranean in design with a charming front courtyard, this approximately 5,075-square-foot home is positioned to overlook the fairway green of hole #12 from over 900 square feet of covered patio space. The open concept living area is adjacent to a chef’s kitchen with a secondary kitchen and separate dining area. The game room includes a fabulous wet bar, and additional spaces include a library/study and flex room. The master suite has access to the outdoor patio. Estimated completion date is June 2023?

4 bedrooms / 4 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage plus golf cart storage

Chef’s kitchen plus secondary kitchen Library, game room and flex room Covered patio overlooking fairway green #12 Master Full Golf Membership Available

3728 CLUBS DR. $3,495,000 5,075 Square Feet MLS# 1636117 1 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

7 WINGED FOOT

$2,795,000 4,785 Square Feet 3

This breathtaking home, located on the 5th green of the prestigious Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, has the rare combination of views and privacy. Upon entering, your eye is immediately drawn out through the many patio doors to the perfect venue for entertaining and enjoying family times together. Imagine sitting on the generous patio with fireplace, swimming in the oversized pool and using the spacious covered patio with ample seating by the outdoor kitchen to host friends and family! Every detail has been thought through and beautifully executed — the only thing missing is you!

4 bedrooms / 4 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage

1.96 acres

Located on a cul de sac street Master Full Golf Membership Available

CAREY YEAGER

Listing Agent :: 830.388.6363

20 OAKLAND HILLS

$2,999,500 4,257 Square Feet 4

This organic modern style home is 4,257 square feet on 1.15 acres bordered by stands of trees adjacent to hole 5 of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Luxury touches abound within including Thermador® stainless steel appliances and a flex room with its own bathroom and covered patio, along with an 800-pound free-standing tub in the master suite! Huge sliding doors framed in black bring the outdoors in, with abundant natural light accenting the main walls and ceiling.

3 bedrooms / 4 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage 1.15 acres

Pool plus additional pool bath Game room, upstairs flex room, walk-in pantry

Rendering/Design subject to change

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 oversized 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

Rendering/Design subject to change

14 MARIGOLD

$1,637,186 3,527 Square Feet MLS# 1596268 6

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

NewListing

17

VAQUERO PASS $2,195,000 4,717 Square Feet MLS# 1655756 7

Master Full Golf Membership is available! This striking transitional home designed by Jim Terrian and built by Garner Custom Homes in The Springs of Cordillera Ranch offers approximately 4,717 square feet of living space. Upon entering, your eye is immediately drawn through oversized 20' multi-slide doors to the privacy of a generous patio, pool, spa, fire feature and outdoor kitchen. The openness between indoor and outdoor living spaces creates a flowing, al fresco-style effect to the home, sure to be enjoyed by friends and family! Unique and inviting, 17 Vaquero Pass has served as the Garner Custom Homes model, so it’s been carefully cared for and never lived in! From the spectacular gourmet kitchen to the upstairs play room and balcony featuring views of the Twin Sisters, every detail has been meticulously planned and beautifully executed. This is the perfect venue for entertaining and enjoying family times together!

• 4 bedrooms / 4 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage

1 acre • Pool and spa

Two living areas, walk-in pantry, study/office, outdoor kitchen

67 CORDILLERA SPRINGS

• 4 bedroom / 4 full baths and 1 half bath / 3 car garage

• All bedrooms include en-suite baths

• Large covered patio with access from multiple rooms