Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine - September/October 2011

Volume 3, Issue 5

•

September/October 2011

Happy Are Those Who Dream Dreams CORDILLERA RANCH RESIDENTS LUPE AND DIANA GARZA

th is is living. p ure a nd simp l e. www. co r d i lle r ar anchLIVING.COM

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

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

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welcome

W

e’re mixing it up a little this issue and hope to expand on it more in some future issues. We’ve always tried to explore new ways to highlight the lifestyle that you lead here in our little slice of heaven. Now we’re doing it in photos (admittedly this is my attempt to keep you from falling asleep before you get to the good stuff in this issue). Below is just a small flavor of some of the “Ranch Scene” activity that we’ve captured on camera. We’ll continue to expand this collection of pics in the future, but I hope you enjoy this first edition of the Scene.

Go to facebook.com/cordillera.ranch to upload your photos from recent parties in and around Cordillera Ranch. We’ll select a few to add to each upcoming issue of Cordillera Ranch Living.

Thanks to those of you that have offered ideas and feedback for the magazine - we appreciate your input. Also a reminder that keeping up with the most current news at the club and in the community is easy by following us on Facebook or Twitter - plus there’s the occasional opportunity to win some free gear at the club by correctly answering some of our Facebook trivia questions. Enjoy this end of Summer edition of the magazine and hopefully by the time you’re reading this we’ve broken the drought (miracles happen).

Sincerely,

Charlie Hill Vice President Cordillera Ranch

8 | September/october 2011

Proudly Serving Cordillera Ranch Since 1997

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

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table of contents

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

Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine 265 N. Main Boerne, TX 78006 210-507-5250 info@smvtexas.com

Contents 8 Welcome Letter 12 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 16 GOLF - MARC DEWALL 20 DINING - Wild Game 26 COVER STORY - Happy Are those that dream dreams 36 STAFF PROFILE - dwight webb 38 FASHION - San ANtonio Trend Setters 44 EQUESTRIAN - Full speed ahead 48 Fitness - Active Lifestyle 54 OUTDOORS - Pass along our hunting heritage 57 Di lusso villas - total home technology 58 In The News

Cover & cover feature photography provided by Snap Chic Photography.

830-220-2442 www.snapchicphotography.com

ALLIANT GAS: PUBLIC AWARENESS There are many benefits to using a community gas system over an individual yard propane tank.

Here are a few: One central system for the entire development allows for better curb appeal. The need for propane delivery trucks in the neighborhood is eliminated.

Community tanks are maintenance-free for homeowners. Community gas systems are required to meet high safety standards imposed by the Texas Railroad Commission.

Before digging or excavation in or around your property, please call 1-800-344-8377 for a line locate at no cost to you 24/7.

Excavation can be as simple as planting a tree, building a fence, or installing a swimming pool.

If you see, smell, or hear a gas leak call 1-877-LEAK-GAS. A few of the indications that you may have a gas leak are: if you notice a rotten egg smell, if you notice discolored vegetation around a meter or if you hear a hissing or roaring noise near a meter.

For additional information please call 1-866-764-0283 or email James Johnson at rrnelson@alliantgas.com

62 Preferred builders: VALUE IS WHAT YOU GET 68 HOME TOUR - Modern English,

A Robert s. Thornton Project 74 CORDILLERA RANCH REALTY

10 | September/october 2011

Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 203 Shadywood, Boerne, TX 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2008. All rights reserved. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions. Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The content contained does not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation, Schooley Media Ventures, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents.

Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.

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CALENDAR

Member Traditions

Tuesday Evenings FAMILY FRIENDLY BUFFET 5pm – 9pm A buffet filled with great food everyone will enjoy. On select nights a drink special or two will be offered for the adults! The best part…kids eat free!

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

Thursday Evenings PLENTY FOR $20 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Join us at the Club every Thursday evening and enjoy our fantastic features, accompanied by a specialty wine menu featuring selections from around the World for only $20 per bottle.

Thursday - Saturday Evenings CORDILLERA RANCH’S FRESH STEAK AND SEAFOOD MARKET MENU 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

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

September 1 Men’s Night Out

September 15 3rd Thursday

Join us for our final Men’s Night Out and enjoy 9-holes of golf in a relaxed, fun, atmosphere. This is your last chance to enjoy Men’s Night Out this summer, so sign up!

Oktoberfest! Come enjoy German beer and food as we celebrate this uniquely German tradition with a Hill Country twist.

September 5 Labor Day Come out and join us on Labor Day for some fun in the sun, and pool games on Monday, September 5th! The Pool Menu will be available from 11am - 8pm, live DJ from 12pm - 4pm and Happy Hour prices all day long!

(We will be open from 11am - 8pm on Monday, September 5th. The Clubs will be CLOSED on Tuesday, September 6th.)

September 10 - 11 Senior Club Championship

12 | September/october 2011

September 21 - 22 Ladies’ Club Championship October 6 Pinot and Pearls Ladies Only! Main Clubhouse Dining Room, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine with a presentation from an international pearl expert! This fabulous event will include prize drawings and a special opportunity to view the World’s largest selection of pearl jewelry and opportunity to purchase direct at incredible savings. ALL ladies attending will receive a pair of pearl stud earrings with a retail value of $199.

Friday Evenings SIGNATURE DINING Featuring live entertainment from 6pm – 9pm. Join us for an elegant dining experience, live music and Chef’s finest features. Advance reservations strongly suggested.

Saturdays CARDIO TENNIS Saturdays at 9:30am. Contact Glenn at the tennis shop or by e-mail: gbarton@cordilleraranch.com.

October 13 - 15 C-Star Member Guest Tournament October 18 Pumpkin Carving October 20 3rd thursday Wine and art walk featuring art from Texas Treasures Fine Art Gallery in Boerne, we plan on making Thursdays your favorite day of the week!

October 30 Trunk or Treat Join us if you dare for a night of fright!

Decorate the trunk of your vehicle with your best Halloween spooks and head on up to the club for a spooktacular evening of fun!

We’re constantly in search of products, services and activities that will enhance your lifestyle and experience here at the Clubs. The team and I are happy to announce both a new amenity and monthly tradition designed to accomplish that objective.

The Clubs of

Cordillera Ranch www.clubsofcordilleraranch.com 830.336.9000 Visit this site for more information on:

This new Member Tradition will incorporate something fun and new each 3rd Thursday; from Oktoberfest in September, to a Wine & Art Festival in October featuring art from Texas Fine Art Gallery in Boerne, we plan on making Thursdays your favorite day of the week!

We are ready for the debut of this fun, new tradition on Thursday, August 18th with the Cordillera Ranch Summer Hoedown. Come enjoy music, food and fun for only $19.95++ per person. Reservations are strongly suggested; please call the receptionist at 830.336.900 to make one or for any further questions.

TENNIS AND TRADING SHOP: New to Cordillera Ranch is the Tennis and Trading Shop! At the end of September we will debut the newest outlet of our Food and Beverage Department, located in the Tennis shop. The shop will now be a one-stopshop for beer and wine to go. This new shop will accommodate all of your beer and wine needs; whether grabbing a last minute 6-pack for the big game, or picking up your wine order from the latest wine dinner, it’s our convenient answer for your beer and wine needs!

I hope you’ll take advantage of these new activities and amenities.

See you at the Clubs!

Ladies’ Golf Events Sporting Clay Leagues Men’s Golf Events Tennis Leagues Guided Fishing Excursions Equestrian Activities

cordillera social club www.lifeattheranch.com A website for the residents by the residents.

View this site for more information on these recurring monthly events: Nature Club Book Club Bridge Club

Monty Becton General Manager The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch

Men’s Bible Study Movie Night Bunco Night Cooking Club Fine Wine Club

www.cordilleraranchevents.blogspot.com

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

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

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CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 15

Golf GOLF

With the summer heat finally starting to wane, the Fall golf season is upon us and we have a few fantastic events on the golf calendar that I hope you will be able to participate in.

Both the Men’s Senior Club Championship and Ladies Club Championship take place in September. These events have continued to grow in popularity as they are a great way to test your skill and meet some different players that may not be part of your regular group. Both gross and net prizes are awarded. Jarratt Jones is the defending champion in the Men’s Senior and has won the event all four times it has been played. Marilyn McGaw played great golf last year to win her second LCC. It is hard to believe but the C-Star Member-Guest will be held for the 6th time already in the Club’s brief history.

Last year’s event was one of the most incredible I have ever had the pleasure of hosting. We introduced a new format (9-Hole Matches) that was well received by all those who played. It kept everyone involved until the last putt dropped in our Lone-Star Shoot-Out. Chris Hill and his guest Patrick Barley defeated Phil Pfeiffer and his guest Jeff Kuhn on the last hole when Patrick made an 8 foot putt that just snuck in the hole to win! The Member-Guest is a fantastic way to showcase the Club to a client or friend and really is a celebration that reflects the lifestyle of the Cordillera Ranch community and Club members. I hope you will consider playing and please let me know if you need more information regarding the event.

One of the most enjoyable things I do as the Director of Golf here at Cordillera Ranch is experience some of the great golf courses of the world with our members. This October we will be traveling to historic Pinehurst on one of our Cordillera Ranch Signature Vacations. I will be joining 24 CR members, Outdoor Activities Director Shane Reynolds and General Manger Monty Becton on a Golf and Spa trip that promises to be memorable. Pinehurst has eight great golf courses, including the famed #2 which hosts the Men’s and Women’s US Open in 2014. I truly look forward to spending this time with our members and building new relationships that otherwise would not have been possible.

Come out and enjoy our Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, one of the very best in the country. Despite the summer drought, Mark Semm and his team have the golf course in great shape and the September, October and early November time frame brings ideal weather.

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

TIPSANDTRICKS Choosing The Right Sand Wedge The total playability of a sand wedge is a combination of factors. The most important factors are built into the head itself. Outside of the loft, the design of the sole is a critical factor in how the wedge will play. Since most all wedge shots require that the sole of the club contact either turf or sand to work properly; the width of the sole and the bounce will determine how the club will play.

There is a difference between the sole width and the bounce of the sole and how it will react during a golf shot. The distance between the trailing edge and the leading edge is the sole width. The angle between the trailing edge and the leading edge is the bounce angle. For soft bunkers, lush fairways and rough you will need a higher bounce angle and a wider sole width. For harder bunkers and hardpan lies you will need a lower bounce angle and a narrower sole width.

For maximum playability, it is recommended to buy a wedge with a lower bounce angle and a wider sole width or a higher bounce angle and a shorter sole width. The combination of shorter sole width and a lower bounce angle is not recommended.

The combination of the two will offer no forgiveness even in tighter lies.

If you prefer hitting lob shots with a square clubface then choose the higher bounce angle with a shorter sole width. The shorter sole width can help the club glide through the turf, while the higher bounce angle will offer more forgiveness through the shot especially with a squarer clubface.

If you prefer hitting lob shots with an open clubface then choose the lower bounce angle with a wider sole width. The lower bounce angle can keep the leading edge tighter to the ground when the clubface is open, while the wider sole width can offer forgiveness and prevent the club from digging through impact.

If you have any questions regarding the difference between the two wedges, please visit us at the golf shop.

UPCOMING EVENTS

GOLF

SEPTEMBER

830.336.4653 | mdewall@cordilleraranch.com

Men’s Senior Club Championship Date: September 10-11 Time: AM Tee-Times Format: 36-Holes Stroke Play Senior Division: 50-59 yrs.

Super-Senior Division: 60 yrs. Plus Gross and Net prizes Entry Fee: $75 includes food and prizes The Senior Club Championship has grown in popularity over the last few years here at the Club. The event is a great way to test your skill against many of the same players you often play with on a regular basis but also a great way to meet some different players. Jarratt Jones is the defending champion and has won this event all four times it has been played.

Ladies Club Championship Date: September 21-22 Time: AM Tee-Times Format: 36-Hole Stroke Play flighted by handicap Gross and Net Prizes Entry fee: $60 includes food and prizes This tournament is open to all lady members of the Club. Prizes are given for both Gross and Net competitions and players are flighted by their handicap so they are competing against someone of similar ability. The 2010 champion was Marilyn McGaw.

OCTOBER

C-Star Member-Guest Date: October 13-15 Format: 45 Holes Non-Elimination FourBall Match Play (5, 9-Hole Matches) For more information about this event please contact Director of Golf Marc DeWall at 830-336-4653.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 17

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DINING

Wild Game ON THE MENU

By Dwight Webb

The Texas Hill Country has many options for wild game. We are all familiar with the white tailed deer hunts of November and December, but one of the most popular hunting options is fast approaching: dove season.

Maybe the only thing more Texan than a late-afternoon hunt spent at the edge of a stock tank – shotgun in hand, searching for doves, shade, and cold beer – is the ritual of enjoying the fruit of the hunt.

For many Texans there is one way – the only way, of preparing dove for the table. It involves three ingredients: dove, jalapeños, and bacon. As Executive Chef at the Clubs of Cordillera Ranch I am presented with the privilege of furnishing a recipe for you, the reader.

I have selected a recipe that both utilizes game indigenous to our area and is the perfect meal for a delicious dove-season dinner. But if you’re a Texan like me, a recipe for bacon-wrapped dove would be downright insulting. We don’t need a recipe for that. As Texans, that information is something we were born with. It’s in our DNA. Instead, I’m giving you a recipe for another dove dish that, in my estimation, is every bit as comforting as the one that’s part of the Texan’s genes. Just like the quintessential recipe for bacon-wrapped dove, it is also simple, with only three ingredients: dove, canned chicken broth, and canned biscuits. Dove and Dumplings. It’s adapted from my Mom’s recipe for chicken and dumplings, so I guess you could say it’s in my DNA as well, right next to that other one.

Here at the Club, we sometimes make Mom’s original, chickenized version, but don’t be alarmed – we make the biscuits and chicken stock from scratch. I adapted this version to make it more userfriendly for the home cook, but if you’re so inclined, feel free to use scratch ingredients the way we do here at the Club.

Dove & Dumplings Serves 4

16 Dove Breasts, bone-in 6 Cups Chicken Broth Salt, to taste Fresh-Ground Black Pepper, to taste Sugar, to taste 4 Canned Biscuits Flour Place the dove in a 6 qt pot and cover with the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and skim off any foam that rises to the top as the liquid comes to a simmer. Cover and maintain at a low simmer until the dove is tender a starts to come off the bone. This will take 1 to 2 hours depending on the age of the doves.

Once the doves are tender, remove them from the broth and let cool. Season the broth well first with the salt and pepper. Next, season with some sugar. Using a little bit of sugar to season savory dishes is a secret that all chefs and some home cooks know.

You are not trying to make the broth taste sweet, instead, you will find that the right amount of sugar will round out and add depth to all the other flavors in the broth.

Prepare the dumplings by using a rolling pin on a well-floured surface to roll the biscuits to a 1/8th inch thickness. Cut each biscuit into 8 pieces like you would a pizza.

Toss all the pieces well in some extra flour to ensure that they don’t stick together.

This extra flour is also important to help thicken the broth a bit.

By now the dove will have cooled enough for you to de-bone them.

Remove the meat and reserve, discarding the bones. Bring the broth back to a simmer, then add the dumplings and their flour all at once.

Stir well to mix in the flour and to make sure the dumplings don’t adhere to one another. The dumplings will swell and float to the surface. Stir gently and constantly until the dumplings are done, about 5 to 10 minutes. You will know they are done when the appearance changes from opaque to translucent and they begin to sink rather than float.

Add the dove meat to the pot and simmer 2 to 3 minutes until the dove are heated through, and serve.

This dish is good served any time of the year, but is really best on a chilly night served with hot crusty bread, real butter, and maybe a good glass of un-oaked Chardonnay.

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COVER FEATURE

Dreams...

Happy Are Those That Dream

O

ftentimes, dreams are our most prized possessions. As a child, you might have dreamt of walking on the moon. As your life matured, those dreams might have changed to reflect your different priorities. Lupe Garza’s dreams were as humble as his beginnings: to get an education and positively impact children. Lupe and his wife Diana accomplished that goal, in a much bigger way than either of them imagined.

Lupe begins, “I grew up in Hebbronville, Texas.

It’s not too far from Laredo. Most people have never even heard of it. Diana and I come from very humble beginnings. My dad was a vaquero, and was kind of a ranch manager. My mom was a homemaker, and neither of them spoke English. Even though they were born here in Texas, they didn’t have the opportunity to go to school. They had to work and eat. Their generation didn’t have that opportunity.” However, they drilled into Lupe that an education would give him the opportunities that they did not enjoy, and Lupe took note. “I was like most kids and I just wanted to be a truck driver! I really didn’t know what I wanted to do – I never even really gave it a thought. I was born on a ranch, and had 5 sisters and my parents believed in education but I didn’t think I’d ever get to go to college. I knew I needed a diploma, but I didn’t think I’d ever be able to continue to college.”

“One of my sisters was actually able to attend college. I graduated 8th out of 75 kids in high school.

She was a school teacher, so I went in and wanted to do the same. My dad sold a plot of land so that my sister could go to school. I took out loans, grants, and anything I could find to help me get through it.

My sister was working by the time I got to college, so she gave me $5 a week to help me out. We would hitchhike to come home for visits. It was about 80 miles, and that was the only way I could get home.”

While still in high school, Lupe met his future bride, Diana. She explains, “I was living with my grandmother who was ill. I went to stay with her to take care of her. I went to a school dance with some friends. He walked in and my friends called him Lupito. I thought he looked cocky, and thought “No way am I dancing with him.” But it turned out that he was the best dancer there, and so I was hooked. I was 15, and he was 18.”

Lupe majored in Business Administration, but quickly transferred over to Education, with specializations in Math and PE. Upon graduation, Lupe and Diana were married after 6 years of dating.

Lupe laughs, “I had to graduate college so I could afford to be married!”

Quickly, Lupe found work in Alice, Texas as a Junior High school coach and Algebra teacher. Lupe laughs, “Hey, I had a job! We were ecstatic. I think I took home $264 per month. Our rent was $55 a month.

It was a start, and we were so grateful.” Lupe and Diana moved through a handful of other South Texas schools, gradually moving up the ranks of coaching.

At one point, Lupe coached with future Texas Tech University head football coach, Spike Dykes in Alice, Texas, where Dykes was the Athletic Director.

Additionally, through the mid 1970s, they had their three daughters, Vanessa, Cynthia, and Sonya.

Lupe continues, “We came from humble beginnings. We wanted to give our children the best education we could give them. We weren’t making much in Alice. I had a bumper sticker on my old Chevy Station wagon that said “Teachers Forever”.

I loved it.” Diana adds, “Lupe was the type that watched out for kids, and provided discipline when they needed it. Some of the kids didn’t see education as necessary. Lupe told them constantly that they must have an education. Nobody wanted to discipline kids, or catch them. He knew that they were doing drugs by the baseball field, and nobody wanted to mess with it. So he dragged them all into the Assistant Principal’s office, and 2 days later his beautiful station wagon had been graffitied. Later in the years he had some of those kids come back and tell him how much they appreciated him watching over them.”

While Lupe enjoyed the teaching and coaching, the reality of finances came into light, and forced Lupe to look at different vocations. “In ‘79, I was making $16k year. Diana was a social worker, and she was making more than I was, and I had been coaching 11 years.

I talked to Diana about leaving the field. I applied for a job with the local newspaper. It was a job in sales. It was an encyclopedia company based out of Danbury, CT. I didn’t know what a “lead” was. And they kept talking about sales leads, and I didn’t know what they were saying! Several people interviewed, and I didn’t think I stood a chance, but they gave it to me. This company sold an educational program that was geared toward preschool. We were selling

in people’s homes. We would get leads from schools, contact the parents, and sell them in the house. In the first year, I realized I was pretty good and I tripled my income. My second year, I did much better. I started hiring people. I became a manager and started adding to my team. I began to develop my territory, and they transferred me to San Antonio, which was 1980.”

Three years after Lupe joined his new organization, the company went through a re-structuring and Lupe’s direct boss was given a distributorship for the company.

Lupe, being the top sales manager, was promoted to Vice President. Quickly, however, that would change “When we were about to get started on Labor Day of 1984, my boss called me to get my sales report for the week.

We didn’t work 24/7, but we worked 14/7 for many years. He would call me at 7am, and I would sit at my kitchen table.

He had a massive heart attack talking to me on the phone and he died. So I called all the reps and I said we have to keep going, we can’t stop now. So I took over. I had never run a company before.

I took over for a month or so and I had a friend in Danbury, CT that really liked me. He told everybody that without me in their territory, it wouldn’t work. So after some discussion, they gave me the distributorship in ‘84. We had 54 people, and we did very well.”

Finally earning the money that would ensure his children’s educational future, Lupe continued growing his business with the passion that still defines him today. However, in what seemed to be a credible business opportunity, Lupe found his family in a situation that ultimately stripped them of everything they had worked so hard for.

“I was approached by some folks out of Pakistan. They were based out of Houston. They asked me if they could

buy some of my product from me, and they wanted to process their business through my merchant account. I would go into their offices, listening to the people that were selling, and everything looked so legit. They were selling 30, 40, 50 per week, and then it was 100.

My controller called me and said there was an unusual amount of charge backs from this Houston group. However, because outwardly everything appeared to be legit, we weren’t overly worried.

Long story short, they did a $1 million worth of sales. I personally guaranteed my merchant account. Of the $1 million in sales, $600,000 charged back. It all ended up back on me. They froze my accounts and took all the money. We kept our house, a car, and a credit card.

Everything else was taken. This was 1989. Our oldest was just about to go to college. All their lives, all we had drilled into them was education. And we couldn’t do it. My brother in law loaned me $50,000 to defend ourselves. That was like $50 million to us back then!”

And faced with the prospect of not being able to support their children through college, Lupe packed up two briefcases full of books, and simply got back to work. He continues, “While we were being sued, I incorporated National Education Systems, Inc. The motivation was to start selling direct to the schools.

I started out with two briefcases full of books. I sold $40,000 worth of business in a month. We finally began to get some breathing room.”

National Education Systems was incorporated in 1990, and for years the Garzas simply struggled as they grew the business. As Lupe put it, “Live scared, and you will never fail. We would have one year that we were successful, and you can say that’s great, but then you have to start over again. So the company grew, but I was still working

as hard as the day I started. After her own successful career, Diana made the decision to join the family business as well. She explains, “I worked 23 years as a social worker. The girls had started to leave home, and I would never see Lupe. So in 1999, I decided to quit and work with him. My real motivation was just to see him. I wanted to know more about what he did, but I missed him also.” Lupe adds, “By the time Diana joined, we had grown to a multimillion dollar company. It was all just hard work, and it was all sacrifices. The main sacrifice I made was that I missed out on the majority of the kids growing up. I was never there. I don’t know if I could have done it differently. I would have loved to have been home more, and if there had been a way, I would have done it in a heartbeat. And it just goes to show you how much of a role Diana played in our successes. Without her, I never could have done any of it. It’s true what they say about there being a greater woman behind every great man.”

Over 20 years later, and Lupe is still running as hard as ever. “I am still the top sales person in the company. I’m the sales person that goes outside the state, while I still service several accounts here in Texas. We have about 10 reps here in Texas, but I still sell more than any of them. Why? Because I’m still scared. I love my business, but I’d love to stay home too. However, I can’t let go of something that has blessed us.

That episode where we lost everything really scarred us as well.” And Diana concedes that’s Lupe’s internal drive is pretty impossible to stop. “Yes, I wish he’d slow down. He loves his grandkids so much, and I wish he’d be with them more, because I know he wants that too. I don’t think he’d ever truly retire, though. I don’t think he could ever stay

home. It’s just not in his nature. He’s the type that works on weekends, Sundays, and he gets so close to his clients. They become great friends to him, and he wouldn’t know how to not take their calls, handle their problems, and provide them the service they’ve become accustomed to.”

Even though Lupe continues to work feverishly, they did identify a mutual desire to seek out some solace in the Hill Country, which ultimately landed them at Cordillera Ranch. “We used to live out at Cross Mountain Ranch in Leon Springs. Lupe wanted to get out of the city, and move closer to the Hill Country. We enjoyed our neighbors at Cross Mountain Ranch, but Lupe decided he wanted a bigger house. We looked everywhere, even in Comfort. We looked at Estancia. We just kept coming back to Cordillera Ranch. Tracy (Harris – Cordillera Ranch Realty), who was just so wonderful, showed us this lot, along with a bunch of others, and the view was just amazing. It’s just incredible.”

So while taking in the view from the patio of their beautiful Stadler Custom Home, Lupe and Diana take a moment to enjoy their many blessings. They are both members of the Cordillera Ranch Club, but admittedly don’t use it as much as they’d like, for good reason.

Lupe explains, “We aren’t really that active at Cordillera Ranch, but that is mainly just because I’m gone so much, so when I’m here I want to be at home; I just want to be with Diana and my family. Goodness knows I’ve been gone enough.”

And that time away from home hangs heavy on Lupe. “A lot of the credit of the things we’ve accomplished is that I want to give equal credit to my wife for giving me the opportunity to do the things I’m good at. If I hadn’t had her, I would never have accomplished many of these things. And my children as well.

I want to be a better grand-daddy than I was a father. I don’t want to miss it all.

I want to be able to do all the things I wasn’t able to do with my own kids. We went through a lot as a family, and our kids were just so great in staying strong throughout their lives. And I’m so glad they’ve learned from everything.

I tell them all the time ‘Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising when you fall.’”

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Stability • Experience • Financial Strength

Philip Turturro

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

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

Brian Baize

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

THE FARM AT WOODLAND ACRES BOERNE, TEXAS

Grass Fed Pasture Raised Lamb, Farm Fresh Free Range Eggs, Produce, Texas Goat Cheese, Dairy Goat Milk Ice Cream, Bagels from the Bronx, NY, African Farmers Market Bolga Baskets Please come out and see us at the following markets

Leon Springs (Year Round) Saturday 8:30 - Noon 24133 Boerne Stage Road Boerne (April 9th - Sept 24th) Veteran’s Park on Main Street Saturday 2:30 - 5:00 Legacy Outdoor Market (Year Round) Sunday 10:00 - 3:00 Hwy 281 N & Loop 1604 For on Farm purchases, please call

We are a small family farm here in Boerne. We raise Dorper Lambs, Free Range Layer Chickens for eggs and grow our produce organically.

We have also partnered with other Texas farmers to offer Goat Cheese, Dairy Goat Milk Ice Cream and Raw Cow Milk Hard Cheese. The only products we have that aren’t from Texas are the Bagles from New York and our Fair Trade Market Baskets.

830-431-0664

www.TheFarmAtWoodlandAcres.com

Dog & Cat Boarding large, air-conditioned & heated • inside/outside dog runs • free exercise time • cats stay in separate quarters in the main reception building

Luxury Boarding Suites large, quiet rooms • luxury bedding • piped-in calming music • daily playtime

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STAFF PROFILE

DWIGHT WEBB EXECUTIVE CHEF, Clubs of Cordillera Ranch dwebb@cordilleraranch.com 830.336.9000

NAME: Dwight Webb HOMETOWN: Perryton, TX. Population 8,000

FAMILY: Wife, Patti; Daughter, Ashley Divine, 28; Son, Dutton, 18; Grand-daughter Avery Divine, 18 months; Black Lab, Max, 7

EDUCATION: I completed a 3-Year Formal Apprenticeship under the auspices of the American Culinary Federation and the U.S. Dept. of Labor. My apprenticeship was carried out at the Westin Hotel Dallas, TX. Prior to that I studied Pre-Vet and Agricultural Economics at Texas A&M. Life throws curve balls sometimes.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR FIELD? While studying at A&M I took a part-time job cooking at a pretty hip restaurant. I liked it so much I started spending more time working and less time studying. That first cooking experience lit a fire in me that never went out.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH CORDILLERA RANCH? A little over a month.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF WORKING IN THE HILL COUNTRY? I am an outdoorsman, so my favorite aspect is the abundance of wildlife and diversity of habitat. Crystal-clear rivers that carve out canyons filled with cypress, springs, and ferns, while up past the top of the canyon wall you’ve got prickly pear, road runners, and rocks.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES/ INTERESTS? Fly fishing; bow hunting, especially for hogs; I used to enjoy catching rattlesnakes but that’s a story for

another day.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE SPORT? I’m not really a big sports nut, but if I had to name a favorite it would be golf. Can’t think of another sport that requires as much self-discipline, especially the mental kind. No offense to you tennis people.

FAVORITE SPORTING EVENT YOU’VE ATTENDED? Several years ago I was at the Byron Nelson in Dallas and watched Payne Stewart make his approach on # 18. The ball hit the pin about a foot above the hole and dinged-up the lip of the cup.

Play was stopped for about an hour while the officials were making their ruling and repairing the damage to the cup. I remember feeling sorry for Payne because the stop in play had to be a tremendous mental challenge to the momentum he had going up to that point. I don’t remember if he made the putt, but like to think he did for his sake.

FAVORITE QUOTE? From my Mother: “Bloom where you are planted”. From my father “Don’t worry

36 | September/october 2011

about the S.O.B. or let him get you down. His day is coming”. Dad told me that when I was young and I’ve lived long enough to see that it’s true. Both quotes are great advice for successfully navigating life.

FAVORITE MOVIE AND WHY? To Kill a Mockingbird. Gregory Peck is amazing, as is the story. It was the first and only book written by Harper Lee.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR BUSINESS? Keeping the balance between work and family. This industry is notorious for it.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE IN YOUR BUSINESS? To name one would diminish all the others, and there have been so many great ones I’m just not able to do that.

FAVORITE ASPECT OR FEATURE AT CORDILLERA RANCH? The members. Everyone I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so far have been real salt-of-the-earth folks, and that’s been refreshing.

FASHION

SAN ANTONIO Trend Setters

By Erin Busbee

I’m always amazed at the great talent we have here in south Texas. There are so many people taking simple ideas and turning them into extraordinary things. I have had the great fortune to come across several of these exceptional individuals. Recently, I interviewed three women who all channeled their passion for fashion and business savvy… and created successful companies. These inspirational women prove that with the right amount of desire, hard work, sacrifice, dedication and drive, your dreams can become a reality! Here’s how they did it… in their own words.

BEJEWEL

San Antonio based jewelry designer Carroll Dorsey Walker founded Bejewel. The business started out of Walker’s home fourteen years ago. Now, she has showrooms on both coasts and adorns some of the most recognizable names in showbiz.

EB: “Why jewelry?”

CDW: “Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved the sparkle of gemstones. I love the femininity of wearing stones that are colorful and eye-catching. I never got the opportunity to design until about 14 years ago. I finally had the time to take jewelry design classes, and from then on I was somewhat unstoppable.”

EB: “You have operated a successful business for many years. What’s the secret to your longevity?”

CDW: “My business grew from a home-based venture to my own studio.

At one time I was represented in showrooms in Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York. I was comfortably creating for stores across the nation, with a staff of five.

I came to this jewelry industry with a background in business marketing and management. This tremendously helped me as an artist. I have seen so many artists trying to make it in jewelry, but if the product is not marketed right, priced right, showcased right, and “look” right, you will not succeed.

I must admit that the biggest reason for my success is my belief in my design and workmanship. I am pretty genius when I am at work. I consider my pieces to be like my babies. I give them good energy and want them to wear well on the Bejewel customer. The best compliment for me is to hear all the time that my customers get a ton of compliments when wearing my creations!”

EB: “Who is the most famous person who has worn your jewels?”

CDW: “I have been lucky to have had Bejewel jewelry featured in many national magazines and print ads. My jewelry has been on red carpets in Hollywood and New York. I also have had my jewelry represented at the Oscars several times by “Good Morning America” host, Robin Roberts. It is fascinating to see her surrounded by the Hollywood Stars and she is wearing my necklace. I want to shout to the TV, “hey, that’s my work!!!”

EB: “What is your most exciting accomplishment as a jewelry designer and business owner?”

CDW: “My most exciting accomplishment was when Robin Roberts named Bejewel jewelry as one of her favorite things on “Good morning America.”

EB: “What advice do you have for entrepreneurs who are just starting out?”

CDW: “When people interested in starting their own business come to me for advice, I try to really be blunt. So many have good intentions and plans.

However, what is your product? Have you made one? No? Then why do you think people will buy it? Start small… is the best advice. Take your product and identify your market. Who is buying it? Enjoy long work hours, and put aside any money made for lean days. Most of all, love what you do, and be the best at it!”

Carroll Dorsey Walker’s jewels can be found exclusively at Julian Gold or online at bejewel.biz.

FASHION

HERFF CHRISTIANSEN

Mary Herff and her business partner, Randi Christiansen, started with one piece, a tank top. Now, the designing duo unveils a complete collection each fall and spring. Their clothes are sold in some of the most exclusive boutiques worldwide. And they have been featured in some of the most prestigious fashion publications like Vogue Magazine and Women’s Wear Daily.

EB: “You started out with just one piece. Why was it so important to you to take this venture slowly?”

MARY HERFF: “There are many reasons we started with just one design, The Tank, to launch our brand. First, we were both coming from experience in Beauty and Film Publicity and we wanted to make sure we learned the Fashion industry. Second, we also believe that the greatest brands are those that pace themselves and have patience - this way you are less likely to make mistakes and grow your consumer base in a steady manner. Third, my partner and I are both mothers and fortunately our organic and steady growth of our business has grown in a complimentary manner to our children lives.”

EB: “How do you juggle motherhood and running a successful company?

MH: “Often times I say, balancing motherhood and a business is like walking a tight rope each day. Some days it is perfect and you achieve all the tasks needed that day for both parts of your life but sometimes you fall off and one part of your life takes precedence - a sick child or day long photo shoot. Most importantly, I am thankful I am my own boss and believe critical you live day by day.”

EB: “How would you describe San Antonio style?”

MH: “I find it very inspiring seeing how San Antonio as a city is growing more interesting and progressive in every area - culture, entrepreneurship, culinary arts etc. So, no longer are we stereotyped by the Mexican dress, but now I see San Antonio women having more and more sophistication and diversity due to the addition of great boutiques like Penny Lane and Meadow as well as the arrival of Neiman Marcus. I would say if I had to describe one style of San Antonio it would be casual sophistication with an emphasis on color.”

EB: Is it tough to keep a competitive edge when you’re based in San Antonio? Would it be easier if you lived in NYC? MH: “For quality of life, living in South Texas is a true benefit and my partner (who lives in Austin) and I would never trade it after living in New York. Fortunately, my partner who is the designer travels frequently to her native home of Denmark and goes to New York for her inspiration. She also finds inspiration from Austin with its outdoor lifestyle and the independent music scene.”

EB: “You’ve been building this business for several years. So far, what has been your most exciting moment?”

MH: “Every moment has been exciting - the first time we saw our logo, the first sell, the first time we sold out of our inventory of The Tank, the first time Vogue called us for a sample, the first time we started our partnership with our showroom, the first time our product was sold in Paris and Tokyo. We look forward to many more - that is what keeps us going.”

EB: “What advice do you have for someone who wants to start his or her own clothing line?”

MH: “I think it’s important to work hard on a business plan and point of differentiation. You should pick a partner with complimentary skills. I would strongly advise someone starting out, to pace themselves; it’s a marathon, not a sprint. And lastly, just do it. Do not be afraid.”

You can find Herff Christiansen clothing at Penny Lane in San Antonio, or online at HerffChristiansen.com.

EPIPHANIE

Maile Wilson, an accomplished San Antonio photographer, was tired of carrying around geeky “man bags” to haul her camera equipment. She wanted something feminine and stylish. Wilson obviously wasn’t the only one. In just a few short years, she has taken her company, Epiphanie from a concept… to a half-million dollar business!

EB: “Many people have ideas, but few actually do something about them, what prompted you to take action?”

MW: “I don’t think there was one thing that prompted me, other than the fact that I knew there was a huge gap in the marketplace when it came to stylish camera bags. It took two years of research and work before we could launch our site. So I think the process was more about putting one foot in front of the other, and believing it would happen if I put enough effort into it.

EB: “How did you know there was a market for your camera bags?”

MW: “I was always looking for a stylish camera bag, and couldn’t find one. All the options were bulky and focused on utility.

Whenever I wanted to take my “good” camera, I had to lug the extra bag with me, which was cumbersome. I figured I couldn’t be the only one with this problem.”

EB: “Has there ever been a time when you thought, “this isn’t worth it”? What kept you going through even the most difficult times?”

MW: “Yes, definitely. There are so many unknowns when you’re creating something new. It’s easy to make mistakes, and to become discouraged. I think what kept me going was… knowing there was a real need for this product. Also, I’d been working on it for such a long time, I was really motivated to see it happen.”

EB: “What does it feel like to not only create your concept, but also watch it grow into a successful business?”

MW: “When you’re working every day, it’s easy to get mired down on the day to day challenges that are presented in any business.

Sometimes, I forget how far we’ve come from three years ago when this was nothing but an idea. It’s definitely a dream come true to watch one of your ideas turn into something tangible. And I’ve been blown away by the response people have had to it. It’s really humbling, and I’m so grateful.”

EB: “Any advice for budding entrepreneurs?”

MW: “If you’re making a product, think in terms of helping people and solving a problem for them. Expect obstacles. And when you get overwhelmed just pick one thing to focus on and to work through. Be easy on yourself too, mistakes are part of the process.

And most all, if you really want to make something happen, don’t give up!

You can buy Maile’s bags online at EpiphanieBags.com.

Erin Busbee is the founder of Busbee Style, a consulting company specializing in fashion styling, personal shopping and closet organization.

Busbee learned the biz while working as a reporter/producer for WCBS TV in New York City.

For years, she covered the fashion and beauty beat, interviewed countless stylish celebrities and collaborated closely with top magazine writers and editors. Now, she brings her experience, expert eye and passion for fashion to San Antonio! www. busbeestyle.com (917) 292-1133

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EQUESTRIAN

FULL SPEED

AHEAD

By Kassandra Leachman

There are several families that are residents in Cordillera Ranch and members of The Clubs who have children involved with horses in one capacity or another. Many take lessons at the Equestrian Center or go on occasional trail rides with friends and family. Some ride at facilities outside of the gates, and others simply dream of the day they will own a horse. One such family in Cordillera Ranch, Bruce, Lisa, Jordan and Justin Maldonado, have come to epitomize what it means to be a “horse family”, and had it not been for the casual comment of one of their friends telling them of an amazing community in the Texas Hill country, and urging them to fly out from California to see it, their story may have turned out quite different. Their daughter Jordan was born loving horses. She was just a baby when she sat on a horse and was led around for the first time, and was only three when she began riding by herself. Her early riding experience began in Southern California, so it was no surprise she started out learning to ride English. Her dad Bruce was the farrier for some of the most successful show barns in that area and would often take Jordan with him to work, which further strengthened her love for horses, as well as sparked her competitive interests. Those early lessons, her first horse Spirit, and the encouragement of her family all helped lay a solid foundation for Jordan’s future with horses.

When the family moved to Cordillera Ranch, six years ago, they were some of the first to build and reside on Rio Cordillera near Sendero Ridge. Because of Bruce’s lifelong affiliation with horses,

his profession as a farrier and Jordan’s love of riding, they bought a 5 acre lot that was designated horse property.

As it turns out, the extra acreage was a very good idea, and is being put to good use. Shortly after they got to Texas they met the Curry’s, another “horse family” in Cordillera Ranch with whom they formed a great friendship. Charlene and her daughter Shelby are both very

talented barrel racers and have won numerous awards on a local and state level. Charlene was the first person to introduce Jordan to barrel racing and the thrill of going fast, and from the onset, Jordan was hooked. She never again sat in an English saddle and she began amassing everything needed to be a barrel racer. Everything that is, except a horse. The Maldonado’s knew the right horse would come along,

and they were in no hurry to rush to a decision. In the interim, Jordan learned on Shelby’s very wise and experienced partner, Buttercup. Together, Charlene, Shelby and Buttercup helped Jordan learn the basics of barrel racing and pole bending, and in a very short period of time, she was entered into her first competition. Although Buttercup was plenty capable of posting lightning fast times, she seemed to know Jordan was not, and as many seasoned, good horses do, she took care of her young and inexperienced rider. For two years Shelby and Jordan shared Buttercup at the local rodeos and play days. Her time spent with the Curry’s and Buttercup not only helped Jordan become an accomplished rider, she also learned to have confidence in her abilities and the importance of winning and losing graciously. During that time, Jordan also logged many hours riding horses at the Cordillera Ranch Equestrian Club. Poco and Cody were her two favorites, neither of which had any formal barrel training, but she was determined to change that.

It’s hard to teach “old horses new tricks”, and even though she didn’t win many prizes with them, she had fun, became a better rider, and learned to appreciate and understand the importance of good horse training.

The more Jordan rode, the better she got and the faster she wanted to go.

The need to find a horse that had the ability to take her to the next level was apparent, but not easy. Horses with the disposition, talent and level of training needed to take a young rider to a higher level are not only difficult to find, but generally very expensive. The saying “all good things come to those who wait”

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 45

FEATURE could not have been more appropriate than in Jordan’s case. A friend of a friend had fallen on hard times, and had this Quarter Horse mare they needed to sell quickly and relatively…cheap. She was said to be finished for the speed events, a great kid’s horse and except for a few minor maintenance issues, sound and good to go. As is typical in the horse world, this drew skepticism; after all, things that have every component

division. One of the bigger and more competitive point series in the area is put on by the Youth Horse Club of the Hill Country and held at Cibolo Creek Livery Stables. Points are accumulated over several weekends of competition in various events ranging from barrel racing to goat tying to dummy roping.

The points from all events are added up and the rider with the highest point total in each age division is named

necessary to be successful usually are not cheap. This situation proved to be the exception to the rule, and resulted in the Maldonado’s purchasing Jordan her first competitive barrel horse. From the first time she sat on Sunny, Jordan has not looked back. Throughout 2010, Jordan and Sunny were regulars at many of the local youth rodeos, and the awards began to pile up. They started adding more events to their repertoire, and Jordan started to become a serious threat for the all-around in the Pee Wee

the Champion All-Around cowboy or cowgirl. It is the award that is the most prestigious; as it showcases the rider’s skill and versatility as well as the caliber of horse they ride. In 2010, upon completion of their rookie season together, Jordan and Sunny finished 4th in the all-around standings for the YHCHC in the Pee Wee division, and she won her first trophy buckle.

2011 has been very successful for the pair thus far. Jordan joined 4-H and has entered and won many prizes

46 | September/october 2011

at club play days and rodeos. She has gone to barrel races throughout the Hill Country, and finished in the money every time. She once again competed in the YHCHC summer point series determined to do better than last year, and just as many seasoned, good horses will do, Sunny took care of Jordan. As Jordan proved she could handle a change in gears, Sunny shifted and hit the gas, racing Jordan straight to the title of 2011 YHCHC All-Around Champion, and winning her first champion buckle.

She still has several rodeos and events she plans on attending this fall as well as the Kendall County Fair. Jordan will be in the 7th grade this year, and is an exceptional student. Her goal is to go to a college that has a top rodeo program and attend on scholarship, and then go to vet school. Her horse activities don’t leave much time for other hobbies, but she and her brother Justin will each show a market goat at the county fair and the San Antonio Stock Show this winter. The horses are a family affair for the Maldonado’s with each one adding their own touch to Jordan’s success. Such tremendous support has enabled her to begin her journey towards her goal of one day competing in professional rodeo with dreams of making it to the Women’s National Finals Rodeo. She is fortunate to be able to learn from great teachers, both horse and human, who have helped her achieve a great deal in a very short time. She wants to compete on Sunny and learn all she can from her over the next couple of years then retire her and possibly breed her. The search for the next great one is already underway, but with no real sense of urgency. All signs point toward her continual climb up the ladder of competitive success, suggesting she will be a force to be reckoned with. Had it not been for the career path chosen by her father gaining her access into the world of horses, and instilled a desire to compete; her early list of accomplishments might not grow each time Jordan competes.

FITNESS

The Cordillera Ranch

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

by Lindsey Minarcik, Fitness Director

An active life can do your mind and body wonders. The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch has an amazing amount of resources that can not only get you moving and active, but also out into the beautiful Hill Country outdoors enjoying life to the fullest. From a simple visit to the Fitness Center, a day of golfing, a dip in the pool, a morning of tennis with friends, to kayaking the Guadalupe River, visiting the Equestrian Center, and fishing in numerous waterways available on Cordillera Ranch, the possibilities are endless when it comes to being a healthier, happier you!

WEIGHTS The Fitness Center is an obvious place to start to become more active or continue an exercise regimen. With cutting edge Precor equipment, the Club has your cardio and strength needs covered. Two authorized personal trainers, Michael Reyes and Miriam Hernandez, are also available to help steer you in the direction of your fitness goals. But that is just the tip of the iceberg, there is definitely more to be offered at the Clubs when it comes to your health and fitness.

GOLF Golf, for example, offers a great opportunity to have fun while exercising.

By simply walking the golf course rather than grabbing a cart, you have the potential to walk 5 miles if you play all 18 holes. Add the fact that you will be carrying golf clubs creates a weight bearing exercise increasing bone density and building lean muscle mass. With this, it is easy to see that golf has huge potential in helping you become more active and can be integrated into any fitness regimen to increase cardiovascular health.

SWIMMING Aquatic exercise is an excellent alternative or addition to any exercise regimen with the Clubs pools acting as a great outlet to swim laps or engage in water aerobics. One of the benefits of water based exercising include supported body weight thus taking pressure off of your lower body with the buoyancy allowing your joints and muscles to experience less stress. Water also provides resistance in all directions aiding in burning more calories, strengthening your muscles and increasing the effectiveness of your workout. With the Clubs pools opening early morning, a dip in the pool overlooking the Clubs breathtaking views may be just what the doctor ordered.

TENNIS Tennis is also an activity offered at Cordillera Ranch that can fill many purposes.

Tennis is considered a moderate aerobic exercise, allowing participants to raise their heart rate and burn calories. The quick bursts of activity required while paying tennis (termed interval training) is a great way to improve muscle performance and agility. Another benefit of tennis is the camaraderie associated with it. Tennis is an ideal sport to meet

fellow members with similar interests and lifestyles. From cardio tennis to leagues and tournaments there is something for everyone; beginner to advanced, young, and young at heart.

KAYAKING While we have had a cruel summer and the Guadalupe River suffered from this year’s’ drought, the river is a great resource to add to an active lifestyle once it rebounds. The Clubs uses sit-on-top plastic and inflatable kayaks to float the Guadalupe with the basic skills required to maneuver a kayak learned in a day or so. This scenic ride through carved limestone walls can be a refreshing, sometimes challenging, social activity that doubles as a fun way to enjoy nature at Cordillera Ranch and get some exercise.

Health benefits associated with kayaking are all in the paddling. Propelling your kayak through water will get your heart pumping to improve cardiovascular health while each stroke you take with the paddle will incorporate every muscle in the upper body and some in the lower body, leaving you with lean, toned arms, back, chest, and stomach.

EQUESTRIAN Another outlet that can lead to an active lifestyle, suitable for both the young and old and all ability levels is the Equestrian Center. Horses can do wonders not only for the soul, but can improve balance, muscle tone, and flexibility to name a few. From the obvious requirement of balance to stay on a horse, posture and core muscles will strengthen as your hips are required to keep you centered and horseback.

Riders will also de-

velop good muscle tone in the legs as they play a crucial role in riding. More experienced riders can benefit aerobically from riding as trotting and cantering can raise the heart rate similar to that of a jog.

FISHING Fishing is yet another one of those outdoor activities that can fill many needs.

It can be an activity you enjoy with family; teaching kids, something you do to get away for some peace and quiet or something you and your lifelong friend or spouse do together to spend some quality relaxing “decompressor” time. Whatever the case may be, fishing is plentiful at Cordillera Ranch with equipment and knowledge easily accessible. Physically, fishing is not too demanding, it does however have benefits that leads to an active, healthy lifestyle. For one, travel by foot is virtually a requirement to get to your favorite spot where the fish are biting, and of course, you have to carry your equipment. The more walking we do, the more we burn calories and work the heart and lungs. Secondly, casting your bait into the water and the number of reputations done in one fishing session will work the back, shoulders and upper arm. Finally, we can all understand that sitting by a lake enjoying the sounds of nature and warm sunshine on your face is much healthier than sitting in traffic, pollution surrounding you and stressing out about the daily grind. This ability to decompress is very important for a healthy mind.

If becoming healthy and active or continuing your life in this fashion is something that is important to you, as it should be for all of us, Cordillera Ranch is the place to do it. There are so many different opportunities to get out and enjoy the beautiful Texas Hill Country, spend time with family and friends, and carve out some solitary time.

So get out, try something new or pick back up where you left off! Your mind, body and spirit will thank you for it. As a final note, as with any exercise regimen or physical activity, make sure you are healthy enough to pursue the above activities by checking with your doctor. We would love to see you out enjoying all the great amenities offered at Cordillera Ranch but want all our members to safely enjoy the experience!

To your health!

Lindsey Minarcik Fitness Director The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch lminarcik@cordilleraranch.com 830.336.GUAD Editor’s Note: As of this printing Lindsey & husband Jeremiah, are the proud parents of a new baby boy, Wyatt. Congratulations!

At Mercedes-Benz of Boerne every employee is dedicated to providing world class customer service. That is why we continue to improve every day and maintain a “whatever it takes� attitude.

We feel that buying or leasing a vehicle should be easy and hassle free. Simply put, we are dedicated to your complete satisfaction and that dedication has led us to recognized with the Merdedes-Benz Best of the Best Dealer Recognition Award five years in a row now.

Enhance Your Life at the Lodge

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

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

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

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

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

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CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 53

OUTDOORS

GET OUTSIDE

&

Pass Along Our Hunting Heritage

By Shane Reynolds

Hunting and other forms of outdoor recreation have been a way of life for many Texans since the beginning of this great state. With each new hunting season, hunters flock to the fields and forest in pursuit of their favorite quarry.

Whether you hunt to put food on the table, for the excitement of the chase, or for the relaxation and pleasure of being in the field on a crisp autumn day, hunting continues to be a popular pastime for many Texans.

I grew up in the Piney Woods of East Texas, hunting with my father and grandfather in a renewable pine forest planted by Kirby Lumber, where my father worked. As we ventured from our vehicle out into the pine forest on a cold winter morning in search of whitetail, my father would plant me at the bottom of a pine tree in a creek bottom well before day break and say “son, don’t leave this spot until I return for you.” For a young boy, this was a challenge. To sit and wait, and hope for a deer to cross

my path, was a life learning experience that I didn’t realize at the time. I certainly learned patience, perseverance, selfcontrol, and many other qualities that hunting bestows upon a youngster. I also vividly remember running through flooded timber with my father and his friends after an evening of roosting wood ducks, which was and is illegal.

We were running from a game warden.

He was not as familiar with the property as us, and found himself chasing ghost in the dark as we headed for a vehicle left at a conspicuous location for this exact scenario. This was yet another experience that began my transformation into a lifelong outdoorsman and the development of my own hunting ethics and traditions.

Unfortunately, in today’s society, fewer youngsters and adults experience these memories and the enjoyment associated with the hunting experience and our wonderful outdoors. I have read many studies over the years that indicate

the number of hunters across the United States has declined significantly.

Although much of this decline is likely associated with our state’s aging population, decreased interest by our youth may also be contributing to the decline.

In today’s society, unlike years ago, youngsters and adults are involved in numerous other activities which compete for their free time and interests. Expansion of youth athletic programs, home-video games and the Internet craze are a few of the activities which occupy a large portion of our children’s time today. State fish and wildlife agencies across the nation have reported significant declines in the number of youth hunters.

Here is my call to action! Please consider taking your son, daughter or grandchild on a hunting excursion this year. Texas Parks and Wildlife has implemented special seasons or hunts to provide youth hunting

opportunities. The primary objectives of these special seasons are to encourage youth to participate in hunting and to develop an interest and appreciation for the outdoors and our state’s natural resources. In addition, special youth seasons provide an excellent opportunity for adult mentors, while not carrying a firearm, to provide one-on-one instruction to the youth on various aspects of hunting such as proper gun safety, hunter ethics and the development of hunting skills. All of these seasons are established during times when kids are out of school and when ranches are not crowded with other hunters.

As the Outfitter for The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, I have access to a myriad of resources to arrange hunts.

From a network of ranches through the Texas Deer Association to personal relationships with guides for dove, duck and goose hunts, I can help arrange any type of native or exotic hunt in

Texas. Most importantly, I’m available to take your children or grandchildren on hunting trips. I look forward to passing on my hunting heritage to my own daughter Penelope and son Rio as soon as they are able to join me, and I have completed my twenty year hunting educational seminar with their mother.

After living in California for 11 years and constantly educating others on the hunting lifestyle and heritage passed on to me through my family, I often struggled to find the right message to convey. Each fall, I would search to find the source of the feelings that arose, as the crisp morning air and the changing colors of the land and sky stirred something deep in my soul.

The biggest challenge I had when defending my hunting heritage was ‘why’. The books below will help in understanding the ‘why’, our hunting heritage, and our obligation to pass along hunting traditions. They are not a collection of “how to hunt” publications;

they’re explorations into the things we know—in our souls—about hunting, but cannot always find the right words to describe them.

After reading one or two or three of these you may find it easier to explain why you hunt.

A Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold The Sacred Art of Hunting, James Swan Heartsblood: Hunting, Spirituality and Wildness in America, David Peterson Beyond Fair Chase: The Ethic and Tradition of Hunting, Jim Posewitz Inherit the Hunt: A Journey into the Heart of American Hunting, Jim Posewitz If I can be of any assistance to our members, I am always a phone call or email away.

Shane Reynolds Outdoor Recreation Director The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch 210.616.6051 cell sreynolds@cordilleraranch.com

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 55

The San Antonio Opera In conjunction with

Cordillera Ranch Realty Present

The First Annual Holiday Spectacular Featuring

San Antonio’s Three Tenors A Tour de Force of Vocal Virtuosity

Timothy Birt

Donald Braswell

William Chapman

Experience an evening of holiday elegance combining the tastes of wine, food & music of the season Wine / Hors d’oeuvres Recption 6:00pm - 7:45pm

December 3, 2011 The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch Main Clubhouse 1092 Clubs Drive Boerne, TX 78006

Performance 8:00pm - 9:00pm Tickets $150 per person To Purchase Tickets Contact:

The San Antonio Opera 210.225.5972 www.saopera.com

Di Lusso Villas Total Home Technology This custom-designed home control system

by Sterling Home Technologies delivers

complete lock-and-leave convenience. Control your thermostats, interior and exterior lights, security system and much more with your smart phone from anywhere in the world.

Learn more about these features and how the Di Lusso Villas are your simplest connection to Cordillera Ranch home ownership by contacting Cordillera Ranch Realty at

877-571-3286. Cordillera Ranch Realty is the exclusive broker for the Di Lusso Villas.

In the

News:

Congratulations to 14-year old Taylor Coleman for getting selected to represent the United States in The Duke of York Young Champions Trophy (Sept. 13-15) in Hoylake, England. Taylor’s impressive junior career has continued this summer as she has earned several more wins on the AJGA circuit, most recently her repeat win at the AJGA Harvey Penick Junior All Star at Grey Rock GC in Austin. This win, along with her world ranking of 26, got her the invitation to serve as the U.S. girls representative in a field that features the top junior female and top junior male from 35 countries to compete for one trophy. Congratulations and good luck Taylor! Learn about the event: doy-champions.com.

Congratulations to the Boerne Chargers T-Ball and Coach Pitch teams for earning trips to the All Star State Tournament in Burleson in July. We are proud that Cordillera Ranch was wellrepresented in the great seasons by these two teams, and thanks to Jarratt Jones for his hard work and dedication during seven years as the Shetland League Commissioner. Congratulations to Cordillera Ranch residents Braden Baize, Jaxon Baize, Price Hill, Hayes Hutton and Landon LeStourgeon. Both teams had dramatic runs in the State Tournament.

JP Energy Partners secured a $100 million private equity commitment in July 2011 from ArcLight Capital Partners, LLC to significantly expand its propane-related business. Chris Hill, VP of Business Development for JP Energy, said, “This was a key step in our business plan to strategically grow the footprint as well as continue connect the geographic gaps within the existing Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma regions we serve through Pinnacle Propane, Alliant Gas and Propane Direct.” Arclight is one of the world’s leading energy investment firms and their first installment of this investment enabled JP Energy to acquire several propane retail companies supplementing existing assets. Since forming in July 2010, JP Energy has acquired five companies, and they now control around 27 million gallons of annual propane sales in the U.S., making it one of the largest propane retailers in the country. jpenergypartners.com Congratulations to teammates Samantha Sherwood and Thalia Berry and also teammates Avery Lemmons and Ricky Montezuma who won their respective age group gold medals at the recent National Acrobatics Gymnastics meet in San Jose, California. For Samantha and Thalia, who picked up top honors in the Level 6 age 12-14 bracket, it was their 2nd straight year to bring home the gold medal at the Nationals – last year they took gold in the Level 5 group. Avery and Ricky took gold this year in the Level 9 age 17+ group. This was also Avery’s second national title. These talented Cordillera Ranch kids are part of the growing list of top gymnasts under the training of the husband and wife coaches of Rumen Lachkov and Rodostina Lachkova. The former Bulgarian National Acrobatics Team members have developed one of the top U.S. Acrobatic Gymnastics programs at Boerne Gymnastics Center.

Finally, congratulations to all the Cordillera Ranch high school kids at Boerne Champion High and Geneva School of Boerne for earning top honors in a ranking that combines academic and athletic achievements and rates the schools among their peers. Boerne Champion High School recently won the UIL’s coveted Lone Star Cup recognizing the school as the #1 high school (4-A) in the state among 200 high schools. There have only been three other 4A high schools (Highland Park, Southlake Carroll and Friendswood) that have earned the honor in the 14 years that UIL has been awarding it. Including all district sizes, San Antonio Churchill is the only other area school that has ever won the Lone Star Cup. Geneva School of Boerne won its second consecutive TAPPS Henderson Cup for 1-A by winning seven athletic state championships last year and added an Academic State Championship and a Fine Arts State Championship in Instrumental Music to produce a point total for the ranking that doubled the nearest school. Congratulations to all of the Boerne kids and Cordillera Ranch families that worked so hard to achieve such impressive accomplishments!!

58 | September/october 2011

TEXAS INVESTORS TITLE

Performance is ourPriority Commercial, Ranch and Residential Title Transactions

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

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS

Value Is What You Get PRICE IS WHAT YOU PAY

You have found the perfect property for your dream home, and now you just need to match it with the perfect builder to turn your vision into reality. Where to begin the search?

First, it’s important to understand that building a custom home is not a transaction: it’s a relationship and a commitment that should not be oversimplified. Having built close relationships with so many of their clients, sales agents at Cordillera Ranch can tell you firsthand some of the feedback and experiences they have witnessed in the home-building process. “After just a few hours with a new lot owner, I can almost always predict the builder they’ll end up selecting for their home,” says Cordillera Ranch agent Tracy Harris. “It’s such a chemistry, relationship, personality and value decision. I take great pride in seeing customers find their right fit because it makes such an invaluable impact on their building experience,” continues Mr. Harris.

Cordillera Ranch currently has four Preferred Builders who were initially approved to build custom homes in Cordillera Ranch based on their reputation, experience building high-end custom homes and references from satisfied customers.

Although it is not a requirement to use a Preferred Builder, their reputation for delivering the highest quality homes and value has allowed them to build the majority of homes in Cordillera Ranch. Their extensive experience in building custom homes in Cordillera Ranch and their knowledge of these uniquely comprehensive and detailed design guidelines is extremely valuable. Furthermore, Preferred Builders are the only builders that are pre-approved to build a home in Cordillera Ranch – all other builders must get approval on a home-by-home basis.

THE VALUE PROPOSITION

So often the search starts by seeking a comfort level that you’re getting a great value: after all, for most families, building

a custom home is their most significant investment, as well as a lifetime dream. The first question that pops into everyone’s mind is, “What does it typically cost you to build a house per square foot?”

That’s the ‘million dollar question,’ and it obviously varies widely based on the programming of the home features, the detailed specs, site characteristics and, not to be overlooked, the community in which the home is being built. Robert Thornton of Great Homes offers up, “Cordillera Ranch has such a high quality of architectural requirements and restrictions that it’s sometimes unfair to compare home building cost to other surrounding communities.” For example, a builder that answers that question based on past construction experience in a community with weaker restrictive covenants and design guidelines may underestimate the cost for your home in Cordillera Ranch, particularly if your expectations are for quality of finishes and details comparable and consistent with homes recently built in Cordillera Ranch. These thorough restrictive covenants and the diligent enforcement of them is one of the key factors in the 14 years of appreciating home values in Cordillera Ranch and the truly distinct feel of the community.

One myth about the Preferred Builders at Cordillera Ranch is that they are more expensive than other builders because of the marketing fee they pay to Cordillera Ranch.

This is simply an inaccurate assessment of

how all builders (and frankly all businesses) operate. Israel Pena of Authentic Custom Homes explains, “Our marketing relationship with Cordillera Ranch allows me to focus on operating a building company and delivering the best possible home for my client.

I’ve effectively outsourced a major part of my marketing and branding to Cordillera Ranch – there’s not a successful company in any industry that exists without some marketing budget.” The notion that other builders don’t have a marketing cost built into the cost of the home is a misconception. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It’s likely that because of the scale of Cordillera Ranch’s annual marketing budget and the ability to create a consortium of marketing power with the builders, that the Preferred Builders have a more cost efficient marketing operation and thus can allocate less dollars per home to marketing.

Simply put: the Cordillera Ranch Preferred Builders have a marketing economy of scale that allows better cost efficiency than some equally-sized custom builder competitors.

The Preferred Builders’ cost efficiency does not end with marketing. The Preferred Builders are each consistently building three to five more homes at all times in Cordillera Ranch than other builders. This leads to economies of scale with trades and suppliers that is difficult to achieve otherwise. You can figure the math pretty easily: if your builder has five homes currently under construction (versus one) wouldn’t you think that would lead to more efficient material and labor costs because of buying power? In addition, each of the Preferred Builders have most, if not all, of their construction jobs within Cordillera Ranch which allows for much more cost efficient job supervision. The current builders in the program each have been building in Cordillera Ranch for at least nine

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS years (45 years combined) and have built a combined 230 homes in Cordillera Ranch.

Their lengthy relationships with suppliers and trades translate into economic advantages and pricing power.

The value proposition of a Preferred Builder extends beyond their cost-efficient model. How valuable is your time? Do you want to partner with a builder that knows the architectural review process like the back of his hand or one that may still be sorting through the nuances and thus may lead to costly delays or change orders? You cannot really put a price on your time, but it’s easy to understand how much smoother your building process would be with someone that’s built over 50 homes in Cordillera Ranch versus somebody that has just one under his belt. “It saves everyone time and provides great comfort to clients when I can confidently guide a client through the site layout process by understanding what has worked for me previously in the community on a similar lot,” says Damon Christofilis of Burdick and Christofilis Custom Homes. “We have some unique opportunities to capture stunning views that you don’t have in other communities,” adds Ray Stadler. “There is a lot of art in laying out your home site here, and if you approach it any other way then

these builders have to the community adds an intangible value. “I live here in Cordillera Ranch,” says Christofilis, “and we are all members of the club so we, as Preferred Builders, have an elevated sense of obligation to protect our reputation! I’m going to see my clients for years to come at the club, and I’ve enjoyed continuing these positive relationships beyond the building process.”

This philosophy of trust and long-term commitment was echoed by Burdick and Christofilis’ clients Jan and Frank Newton, “We interviewed several builders. We chose Damon because we liked the quality of his work. We would go to see his worksites and they were very clean and really nice. We wanted to work with people who lived here because we knew we would always have a relationship with them.”

In summary, choosing your custom builder can make or break the ease and enjoyment of your building experience. More than 60% of the homes in Cordillera Ranch have been built by a Cordillera Ranch Preferred Builder over the life of the community and that can only be attributed to consistent quality, dependability and good value provided by the Preferred Builders. As Warren Buffet says “price is what you pay, value is what you get”.

CHECKLIST FOR CHOOSING YOUR CUSTOM BUILDER IN CORDILLERA RANCH: _ Ask the builder: Are you a Preferred Builder? _ Ask how many homes have they have built in Cordillera Ranch and how many are currently under way? _ Ask to see some photos, elevations and floor plan examples of some homes they have built in Cordillera Ranch (and the area of Cordillera Ranch where your lot is) and explain how their square footage variations, site characteristics and finishes would compare to your house plans. _ DO NOT get caught up in a builder over selling you a cost per square foot. Custom home costs / square foot can vary widely.

Recent figures show that building costs have been ranging from $170 – 330 /sf depending on a large variety of factors.

The less the square footage, typically the higher the cost / square foot. Also consider whether the cost includes architecture fees, landscaping, pool etc. The point is, take the cost / square foot answer with a grain of salt until you really understand what it means. This all leads back to history, experience and reputation of the builder in Cordillera Ranch. _ Do they have a local representative always in the community to oversee the job? _ Are their trades local so when you have warranty work to be performed it will be quick response?

you probably haven’t maximized the beauty of your lot and ultimately the value of your home. That’s one of things I enjoy the most here is the flexibility and artistic approach to building,” continues Ray.

TRUST, EXPERIENCE AND LONGEVITY

One word that is used over and over in reference to our Preferred Builders is “trust.” As Ken Nibling described when discussing his decision to choose Ray Stadler, “We had to do this [build] long distance, and we needed to be able to trust the person on the other end of the phone. We just felt we could put our faith in Ray.” The long-term commitment

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS | ROBERT S. THORTON, L.P.

Photography by West Vita

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

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

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

830.249.3646 • 507 E. BLANCO, BOERNE • RSTHORNTON.COM

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS | STADLER CUSTOM HOMES

“Voted one of San Antonio’s Top Green Residential Builders” – San antonio BuSineSS Journal –

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CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS | AUTHENTIC CUSTOM HOMES, L.L.C.

CORDILLERA RANCH PREFERRED BUILDERS | BURDICK & CHRISTOFILIS CUSTOM HOMES

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Homes Shown by Appointment

UNCOMPROMISED CONSTRUCTION

www.burdickhomes.com

ECSTATIC HOMEOWNERS

Cordillera Ranch | 830 229 5176

HOME TOUR

MODERN

ENGLISH

By Bethany Heinesh

Photography By Ben Weber

A

When Houston residents Richard and Kristin Martin went looking to build a custom vacation home, they didn’t have to look far –even though they did at first.

Richard always wanted to live on a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and when he and Kristin began scouting land, they focused on an area in Idaho, just fifteen miles from the Canadian border.

“Thank God we found Cordillera,” said Richard, an insurance broker in the oil and gas industry. “I knew that if we built, we would feel an obligation to visit the house regularly. It would be quite a journey to Idaho several times a year and certainly very expensive. Now, we are just three short hours from the door of our Houston home to the door of our home in Cordillera, complete with the Nicklaus course I was looking for. It’s perfect. We can come here every weekend if we want.”

Richard, originally from a town on the south coast of England just ten miles from Brighton, has always loved Texas. After earning a degree in history from Southern Methodist University, he was obligated to return to England, but had every intention of returning to the Lone Star State as

Project

soon as possible. “I just love Texas. I love the weather, the people and the culture.

I’ve been living here since 1990 and I’ve never been happier,” says Richard, in his charming English accent.

Upon learning about Cordillera Ranch, Richard first visited the community alone.

“It was exactly what I was looking for.

When Kristin came down with me on the next trip, she fell in love too. After four or five visits, we decided on a lot.”

Full-time mom Kristin added, “We were really looking to build a home that would be great for entertaining, one that we could enjoy with family. With four kids between us –two sons and two daughters –we wanted somewhere to create memories and have lots of fun.”

The many recreational and leisure activities offered at Cordillera Ranch were also a factor in the Martins’ decision to build in this particular community. “There’s so much to do here,” Richard and Kristin agree. “We consider ourselves outdoorsy people and we love to hike and go cycling. The fact that Cordillera offers so many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors is just another one of the perks to living

here.” And with a house that overlooks the Guadalupe River, the Martins plan to get in plenty of kayaking.

The couple purchased their land in 2007, but admits they didn’t do anything with the property until 2009. “We were kind of intimidated by the idea of building a custom home. All of the decisions and planning felt a little overwhelming. You just don’t realize how many choices must be made when building a home from the ground up. Friends joked that before it was all said and done, we could wind up divorced,” Kristin laughed. “Eventually, though, we realized we couldn’t wait forever so we jumped in with both feet.”

The Martins interviewed several builders, but Richard and Kristin were most impressed with Robert Thornton, owner of Great Homes. “We just had this immediate sense about Robert. We felt we could trust him and instinctively knew he would get the job done right,” said Richard and Kristin. Building began in 2009 and in March of this year, the Martins started moving in.

In spite of the ominous warnings from friends, the Martins marveled at how easy,

and fun, the entire process was. “It was a breeze,” said Kristin. “We only came down about once a month because we had such faith in Robert and his team, we didn’t feel we needed to check up on what they were doing. The cool thing was that we were able to see big changes and progress. I was amazed at how much they got done from one month to the next.” Robert added jokingly, “We’ve stayed in every hotel around here. Every time we came down we tried to stay somewhere new.”

While the Martins’ home was being built, Kristin spent a lot of time with Great Homes Designer Stephanie Latham.

“She is not only an all around awesome person, she has an incredible gift. Her eye for style is amazing. I basically tore out different looks from magazines and Stephanie brought it all together. We traveled to Roundtop and she helped

me pick out all sorts of cool stuff. Then, she incorporated what we bought in the most unique ways. I would tell Stephanie when I liked something and she would make it work.” Kristin added that she and Stephanie have a long way to go together. “She is going to help me furnish the place and add those delicate touches that make a house a home.”

Robert says working with the Martins was equally enjoyable for him and his staff. “The Martins were fantastic clients.

They desired and encouraged creativity, they sought and valued our professional opinions, and they trusted our judgment when opportunities for improvement arose. But they were also fun, easy going and appreciative, and those characteristics go a long way.”

The Martins’ home, just under 6,000 square feet, is unique in comparison

to the popular Tuscan theme so many Cordillera Ranch residents have embraced. With four bedrooms, a bunk room and six and a half baths, the Martins definitely had some challenges on their hands in the area of interior design. “We wanted a modern feel to our home with a sort of industrial touch to it,” Kristin said. “Maybe we’re weird, but we chose concrete floors for much of the house and we wanted chrome accents. I like a more contemporary design with crisp, clean lines.” Robert says he loves the lightly stained concrete floors that are rich in character, looking aged and worn.

Essentially, the Martins’ home was designed around the master bathroom.

“We wanted our bathroom to look a certain way with black, white and chrome.

When I started picking out neutrals for the rest of the house, Stephanie suggested we carry the bathroom’s theme throughout. I’m glad we did because I am thrilled with the way everything turned out,” Kristin said.

The Martins’ home is U-shaped, and although Richard wanted a continuous space with no breaks, Robert suggested adding a walkway between the guest end of the house and the outdoor pool house/game room. Doing so created an opportunity for prevailing wind to blow through the open space, acting as a fan.

“It was that kind of attention to detail, as seen throughout the house; that made for such an amazing finished product,” Richard said.

Indeed, it is the details found in the Martins’ home that make it great. For instance, Richard special ordered faucets from England for the master bath and had a black and white antique claw foot bathtub put in. Kristin picked out a metal black base Stephanie would later

use to make a custom metal table for the kitchen. They also affixed old-timey handle latches to many of the doors and installed motion-sensor lights in the stairways to illuminate pathways at night. The unique tile in each bathroom was hand-picked, with one boasting a beautiful mosaic tile trio set into the wall.

One of the bathrooms even has an oldfashioned shower head reminiscent of pipe work you might see abroad. There are also farmhouse-style sinks in the house, something Kristin always wanted.

Additionally, Richard wanted a toilet with a wooden seat, complete with antique, industrial piping affixed to the wall behind the toilet –one that would resemble the latrines found in English boarding schools.

“This home has a unique site, with long northern views to the front which posed some design and execution challenges because the Martins desired that the pool be to the front. But honestly, the biggest challenge was dealing with some of the selections,” Robert said. “There were a handful of plumbing fixtures that came directly from a manufacturer in England, and holding this manufacturer accountable to timely communication and delivery when separated by an ocean proved to be a trick. The fixtures eventually arrived, but not without seriously testing the patience of one certain plumber, tile layer and a couple of job foreman to the hilt. But if that’s what it took to insure that Richard feels more at home when standing at the head (aka commode) then it was worth the wait!”

Richard and Kristin added several smart features to their home. There are five separate air conditioning units, which allow heating and cooling in only the areas being used, making the house incredibly efficient. “We have been

amazed at how low our utility bill is,” the Martins said, adding that their house is also wired for solar power. They also have surveillance equipment that allows them to check on the house from Houston.

The Martins’ home was laid out to best accommodate Richard and Kristin’s desire for their own privacy, as well as that of their guests and their children.

“The home has three interior staircases,” Robert explained. “One to Richard and Kristen’s master suite at the front right of home so as to take advantage of the northern view, a second stair to two second story bedrooms on the left side of the home for their girls, and a third to the bunk room over the garage at the back of the home for their boys. The separation makes for very private bedroom quarters, but not without some required travel.”

At the heart of the home is the living room –a wide open space with wooden beams lining the ceiling made from rustic barn wood brought in from Pennsylvania.

“I love the beautiful reclaimed long leaf pine ceilings with matching, massive truss beams,” said Robert. The living room also has a wall of windows that overlook the couple’s edgeless swimming pool and Jacuzzi with a breathtaking Hill Country view as the backdrop. On the back wall of the living room is a two-sided fireplace set in dry stack brick to give the wall a distinct texture.

Kristin says her favorite place in her new home is the kitchen, complete with a metallic vent hood above the oven. “I saw that in a magazine and Robert’s team was able to refabricate for me. It’s just another detail that adds to that industrial feel I was talking about,” Kristin explained.

There is also a roomy food pantry with a beautifully carved wooden door that brings a subtle English touch to the room, another feature brought to life from the pages of a magazine.

Off the kitchen is a set of stairs that lead to the bunk room, a large room designed for child’s play with four wooden bunk beds cleverly built into the far wall.

Each bed has its own light and electrical socket, a feature Kristin pointed out as just one more example of how Robert’s attention to detail made for their perfect custom home. “This is a great place for our kids and their friends to hang out.

They can read in bed or plug in any kind of electronics for entertainment.”

Off the opposite end of the kitchen is a formal dining room with a wall-to-wall wine cellar set into the back wall, one that holds 600 bottles of wine. “My favorite bottle is a 1960 port wine,” said Richard, who hopes to one day fill the entire wine cellar with excellent wines. On the other side of the dining room is what Richard and Kristin call their end of the house. A massive office space with stained wooden bookcases stretching from wall to wall, this room also leads up to the master bedroom by way of a staircase with a chrome banister.

“This is a very popular concept in England,” Richard explained. “People like to have their master bedroom upstairs because of the privacy it offers. We have an incredible view from the patio off our room and it just felt right to have the master on another level.”

Outside, the couple has a nine-foot swimming pool. “Pristine Pools put in the pool and built it to compliment the natural terrain. They didn’t even have to do any digging,” Richard said. The game room, with a salt-finish concrete floor, is now empty, but Richard says he’s

HOMETOUR CHECKLIST got big plans for that space. “I want to put in some pinball machines, billiards and shuffleboard. It all depends on how childish Kristin will let me get!”

Even though construction on the Martins’ home is complete, Robert says his dealings with Richard and Kristen are far from over. “Through the many months of design and construction, a relationship is formed that could never simply come to an end once a home is complete and occupied. At a minimum we will interact for a handful of years as they become accustomed to the idiosyncrasies of their new home, but there will also be service items and various discoveries that will involve interaction. Also, I have a son who is an avid golfer, as is Richard. Anytime Nick has the opportunity to play golf with Richard, he jumps at it. The last such outing resulted in some colorful British slang coming home.”

BUILDER

Great Homes, Robert S. Thornton, L.P.

ARCHITECT

David Morris

DESIGNER

Stephanie Latham

POOL

Pristine Pools

LANDSCAPING

Pristine Pools

CABINETRY

Chaparral Cabinetry

FLOORING

Dan Cowart of TWC Moldings

WINE CELLAR

Vito Alvillar

ELECTRICAL WORK Sterling Technologies

BY THE NUMBERS: Cordillera Ranch Realty Dominates Home Sales

By Barry Denton

When friends or business associates are contemplating selling their home, one question I get asked more than any is: “Who should I choose to SELL my home?” I invariably ask them, “Do you want to SELL your home or do you want to LIST your home? There is a big difference.” You need to select an agent/broker who SELLS homes, not someone who’s just a listing agent. It’s very important to know how many homes your prospective broker has actually sold in the neighborhood, not how many of their listings have been sold. That is an excellent gauge of how much selling attention your home will get with the listing agent.

While Cordillera Ranch Realty offers all of the sophisticated listing and marketing services that are available, we are known as the #1 SELLING brokerage firm in Cordillera Ranch! The chart below showing home sales volumes by brokerage firms for the last year and a half is crystal clear:

The numbers say it all: Cordillera Ranch Realty has sold more homes in Cordillera Ranch since January 2010 than all other brokerage firms combined. We’ve sold almost 3x as much as our nearest competitor. As illustrated below, we’ve accounted for 52% of the resale home sales volume in Cordillera Ranch in the last year and a half:

% of Homes Sold in Cordillera Ranch by Broker Misc. Firms Independents 5% 6% Brokerage Firm D

6% Brokerage Firm C 6% Brokerage Firm B 6%

Cordillera Ranch Realty 52%

Brokerage Firm A 19%

Recipes for success in being the #1 seller of homes in Cordillera Ranch? They’re simple:

• We only focus on Cordillera Ranch property. We’re not taking customers to other communities with competing listings. We’re committed to Cordillera Ranch…ONLY!

• Our agents have the most longevity in the community and a majority of our development / sales team are Cordillera Ranch property owners and residents.

• We understand the Cordillera Ranch membership classifications and Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions better than any other firm.

• We’re most familiar with the lifestyle, amenities and privileges of membership.

• Our commission structure is competitive with anyone in the business There are many great brokerage firms in the area and we enjoy working with them on a daily basis. But ask the difficult questions of any agent or broker you’re considering and have them show you their specific Cordillera Ranch listings they’ve actually been the selling agent.

More often than not, you’ll see that a Cordillera Ranch agent SOLD the property. We’re proud of our listing/selling ratios and would be happy to share them with you when you’re ready to SELL your property.

Realty

The #1 resource for Cordillera Ranch Real Estate Information.

DID YOU KNOW….

• Home sales volume in Cordillera Ranch is up 55% year-to-date and inventory is down from 54 homes on the market at the peak to just 36; this represents a very healthy ~7% of the overall homes in the community. Further, at each price segment, there is a very limited number of homes available. There are only two spec homes available in the community (the most recent spec start by Burdick and Christofilis sold, midway through construction).

• New home construction in Cordillera Ranch continues to rise: a good sign of the confidence in this market. There are 57 homes in design /construction and of those 27 are in the “sticks and bricks” stage. The 57 home start figure is well up from the bottom of 21 homes under construction in July 2009.

• If you are considering buying or selling property in Cordillera Ranch, it’s very important to address membership questions with our Membership Director, Debbie Pepper, early on in the process so there are no surprises during contract period or after closing. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until it’s too late.

• The Club membership transaction is wholly separate from the real estate transaction.

• There is not a standard average cost per square foot in Cordillera Ranch that applies to every home. The sale price and building costs per square foot vary WIDELY depending on site features like views, trees, golf frontage, water frontage and acreage. Be sure to understand the differentiating factors when considering properties in Cordillera Ranch: no 2 properties are alike. Cordillera Ranch Realty is the expert on property in the community (and our sales stats prove it). Let one of our agents guide you through the process to give you the confidence you need in buying or selling property.

Agents: Tracy Harris

Gary Peterson

Rick Grimes

Mike Sheridan

Charles Mueller

tharris@cordilleraranch.com

gpeterson@cordilleraranch.com

rgrimes@cordilleraranch.com

msheridan@cordilleraranch.com

cmueller@cordilleraranch.com

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

44 OAKLAND HILLS $1,599,999 5,066 Square Feet This Ray Stadler Tuscan designed bluff view home overlooks the fifth fairway of the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. Come enjoy the good life!!

• 4 oversized bedrooms • Open floor plan with high ceilings and treatments • Chef’s gourmet kitchen

• • • •

Outdoor living space with fireplace and grill Travertine and hand scraped oak floors.

Relaxation water feature Office/study

• Fairway living with views of the waterfalls, • Deep 3 car garage. creeks, and the Texas Hill Country.

• Master golf membership available.

• 1.05 acres

176 Riverwood $929,000 4287 Square Feet An Israel Pena Authentic Custom Home on 2.12 acres and surrounded by beautiful Texas Hill Country featuring views of the Guadalupe River Valley and just walking distance from Guadalupe River and Swede Creek Park.

• 4 bedroom plus study, and 4 full baths • Oversized 3 car garage • Master bath includes separate vanities • Master bedroom features his and her closets

• Large Island kitchen with gas range and granite countertops • Separate family area off of breakfast room • Wood and tile floors throughout living area

• Gas or wood burning fireplace in living area • Wrap around covered front porch • Heated pool and spa in backyard

•• Native privacy landscape

40 Sunriver $1,190,000 4,692 Square Feet + 1,100 Square Foot Casita Immaculate Mediterranean style home nestled among many oaks on this 4.8 acre homesite. Enjoy the Texas Hill Country with the sprawling porches and outdoor kitchen.

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

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

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

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

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

3383 rio cordillera $1,299,000

4,730 Square Feet + 717 Square Foot Casita

This beautiful custom home by Burdick & Christofilis sits among the oaks and is on 5.43 horse friendly acres. Enjoy a private setting from the covered patio overlooking the pool with an outdoor kitchen.

• 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bath, 3 car garage & 48” built-in • Detached casita with full kitchen, • Elegant slate, wood & travertine living, separate bedroom & fireplace with flooring 1 car garage • 180 bottle built-in wine cooler • Thermador professional stainless steel • Sound system is throughout the appliances including a 6 burner-griddle house & outdoor kitchen cook top, double ovens, warming drawer • Outdoor kitchen with DCS grill &

fireplace • Media room with HP projector & 96” screen

• Full Golf Membership Available

• Keith Zars Pool with pebble-tec finish & automated salt water system

325 Park Ridge $1,899,000 5,953 Square Feet This Burdick & Christofilis model home lacks nothing. The 3.38 acre estate features fantastic views of the hill country from the spacious outdoor living area.

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

148 RIVERWOOD $1,175,000

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

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

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

4,538 Square Feet

Spectacular Burdick & Christofilis home nestled among mature oak trees. The perfect hill country setting in the prestigious Cordillera Ranch gated community.

Ideal for entertaining. Open floor plan and spacious outdoor living with pool. · Elegant hill country blend of slate and hardwood flooring makes this home warm and inviting · 2 acres on central water and sewer

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

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

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

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

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

108 ARROYO $655,000

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

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

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

+/-3,700 Square Feet

This beautifully appointed hill country home sits among the richly developed area of Riverwood in Cordillera Ranch. The open floor plan includes an island kitchen with gas cook top. Enjoy the peaceful and quiet setting leading from the back porch to the beautifully landscaped pool/spa on 2.37 acres.

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

island, breakfast bar

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

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

and metal seam roof

112 Horseshoe bend $920,000 3,984 Square Feet Beautiful Burdick/Christofilis Mediterranean designed home sits amongst 6.23 acres of undisturbed views. This spacious open floor plan is perfect for the family that wants to entertain. Sit in your living room and look out over your infinity pool that blends in with the views of the Texas Hill Country. If you are looking for privacy it does not get any better than this!

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

• Oversized master bedroom with sprawling

• . .

master bath.

Separate walk in closets.

Masculine office/study.

Elegant family living area with crown

moldings, vaulted ceilings, and travertine . Huge game room with full bath. floors. . Expertly designed Panache landscaping. . Two fireplaces for your enjoyment.

• Massive 3 car garage. . Heated infinity pool. 

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

120 Acker $1,925,000 +/- 5,514 Square Feet 23.96 Acres This spectacular home is nestled on nearly 24 acres on the Guadeloupe River with approximately 1200’ of frontage. The custom home by Robert Thornton offers all his finest architectural detail and design positioned to take in the incredible views.

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

• Scored and Stained Concrete Floors in Living Area.

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

arched entry & beamed ceilings.

• Hand trowel walls & wrought iron accents.

• Gourmet commercial grade kitchen.

• True butler’s pantry including wine chiller.

• Covered outdoor Living.

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

• Fully equipped security System.

• Master Transferable Full Golf Membership is available

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

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

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

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

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

www.CordilleraRanch.com/realty | 830.336.3570

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Cordillera Ranch Realty Homes for Sale 1 - 176 Riverwood 2 - 44 Oakland Hills 3 - 40 Sunriver 4 - 3383 Rio Cordillera 5 - 325 Park Ridge 6 - 148 Riverwood 7 - 25 Augusta 8 - 2825 Rio Cordillera 9 - 108 Arroyo 10 - 112 Horseshoe Bend 11 - 120 Acker

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CORDILLERA RANCH LIVING

808 Hwy 46 East Boerne, Texas 78006

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