Cordillera Ranch Living January/February 2015

Volume 8, Issue 1

•

January/February 2015

BEYOND THE DIAMOND

JOSH BECKETT

+

2014 YEAR IN REVIEW CLUBS VACATIONS FROM THE MOUTHS OF BABES FITNESS FOR YOUR GOLF GAME AND MORE

c o r d i l l e raranch LI VIN G. COM

Furnishings & A l l Th e F i n e r Th i n gs C a la m it y Ja n e

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Specializing in:

Other Features:

Architectural color rendered master plan including brilliant images and plant descriptions

• Irrigation Installation and Repair (including water efficient drip irrigation)

in both 2D & 3D, outlining 10 months of

• Outdoor Kitchen

color with a balance between evergreen

• Lot Clearing, Cedar Tree Removal and Mulching

and deciduous foliage containing movement

• Outdoor Lighting

throughout, resulting in low maintenance,

• Hardscape (including Fire Pits, Seat Walls, Retaining Walls, Flagstone Patios, Stained and Stamped Concrete, Arbors, Pergolas, Split Rail Cedar Fencing, and more)

drought tolerant and deer resistant landscape.

Stop in and see us, our associates are ready to assist you.

32255 IH 10 West, Boer ne, TX 78006 | Tel: 830.816.3200 | Fax: 830.249.3090 www.acacialandscapeanddesign.com

F E AT U R E S

32

Beyond the diamond Former World Series MVP Josh Beckett talks life after a storied Major League Baseball career.

BY MICHAEL MANCHA

52

FITNESS AND GOLF Improve your game by improving your fitness with TPI certified trainers at Cordillera Ranch.

BY ANN-KRISTIN AND GEVIN ALLEN

58

YEAR IN REVIEW A look back at 2014 and sneak peak of what’s on tap for 2015.

BY CHARLIE HILL

ALSO INSIDE: 16 Welcome Letter 18 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 22 From the clubs manager 26 RANCH SCENE 28 GOLF 38 STAFF PROFILE 40 Cordillera Ranch history 42 OUTDOORS 46 from the mouths of babes 48 dining 54 birding at cordillera ranch 66 mike sheridan retires 68 HOME TOUR 74 CORDILLERA RANCH REAL ESTATE

8 | January/february 2015

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If you’re in the market for a new home just ask any of our current and former clients, and along with rave reviews of quality and creativity you’ll hear the intangible reasons for our success first hand.

Thank you to each of our 80+ friends and clients of Cordillera Ranch for allowing us the opportunity to be a part of your team.

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After interviewing several high quality custom builders, my wife and I chose Garner Homes

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I

In September 2009, the Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine feature story titled “All Roads Lead to Cordillera Ranch” highlighted the broad diversity of members and residents that make up Cordillera’s unique fabric. The article noted that Cordillera residents have roots in all fifty states and six different continents, which illustrated how the Ranch had become a melting pot of people from all over the place with various backgrounds and adventurous paths to the Ranch. The consistent theme from the six families in this ‘around the world’ issue was that they were drawn to Cordillera for the lifestyle, the outdoors, the friendliness of the people and the family environment. While those sound cliché, the reality is they are the common thread that has not only drawn over a thousand families to Cordillera, but helped them forge so many new close friendships here on the Ranch.

Interestingly, you’ll find those same common threads in the varied profiles of this past year’s Living magazine cover features. We started the year with the Schofield’s busy corporate travels which had them seeking an outdoor lifestyle – and true community – that Cordillera offers. In the March issue, Adam Clements, born and raised in Africa, shared with us the world of African safari hunting, his life as a professional hunter and how the natural Hill Country beauty isn’t too dissimilar from the African landscape. The following issue went a completely different direction with an oil and gas executive from Tulsa/ Midland/ Dallas who chose the Di Lusso Villas as way to get in a tighter-nit enclave in the community and convenient clubhouse access while still getting the big Hill Country views and outdoors.

Our July feature, Randy Frazee, whose profession is articulating the gospel, best put into words what intrigues him about the Ranch, “Deep enduring friendships is what makes Cordillera work. Whether you meet people through golfing, doing dinners at your home, or working out together, when you live here, people will know your name.” The next issue offered us Paula Mitchell’s stories about conquering ultra-marathon’s all over the world and how the scenery and quietness of the Hill Country drew Paula and her family to the Ranch.

We concluded the year with the Hunke’s and their love of the outdoors which earned them the honor of Texas Land Steward of the Year after they sold off part of their El Tecolote Ranch to the Nature Conservancy as a way to forever preserve habitat for numerous endangered species. The Hunke’s noted how Cordillera’s unique layout mirrors their philosophy, “Cordillera is an example of how to build and keep the environment pretty close to the same as it is. This is set into nature, and they’ve really respected it and I think that’s really something that makes Cordillera.”

We hope you enjoyed the 2014 Living magazine features and are sure you’ll enjoy the first edition of 2015 with our feature, the World Series MVP, Josh Beckett. While Josh’s elite career as a dominating pitcher earned him two World Series rings and a World Series MVP, you’d never know it by the genuine, unpretentious, down-to-earth personalities that he and his wife Holly have. Their just another example of how people from all over the country with all backgrounds have gravitated towards Cordillera with for the Hill Country beauty and friendly people. Enjoy the read and Happy New Years to all.

Charlie Hill Vice President Cordillera Ranch

16 | January/february 2015

LIVING www.cordilleraranch.com 830.336.3570 www.facebook.com/cordillera.ranch PUBLISHERS: SMV Texas Design Group, LLC / Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation SMV TEXAS DESIGN GROUP, LLC CEO/PRESIDENT Benjamin D. Schooley ben@smvtexas.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Benjamin Weber ben.weber@smvtexas.com CORDILLERA RANCH DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION VICE PRESIDENT Charlie Hill cphill@cordilleraranch.com CONTACT: Ad Sales Sara Hill shill@cordilleraranch.com Cordillera Ranch Real Estate 830-336-3570 www.cordilleraranch.com Clubs of Cordillera Ranch 830-336-9000 Feature article photography provided by West Vita Photography.

830-431-1157, www.westvita.com Cover photograph provided by Ben Weber, 830-285-5477, www.benweberdesign.com

Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 930 E. Blanco, Ste. 200, 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.

CALENDAR : MEMBER TRADITIONS Come check out the new Ranch Menu available every day! Great new features!

Tuesday FIESTA BUFFET

Wednesdays CORDILLERA RANCH GOLD RUSH

Wednesday Evenings

$15.95 Adults and $7.95 for children under 10. 5-9pm. Join us for a South Texas Favorites featuring Beef & Chicken Fajitas. Chicken Enchiladas with Salsa Verde, Beef Taco Salad, Guacamole, Queso, Rice, Beans and all the fixings. Enjoy $5 Blue Margaritas and $4 Mexican Beer.

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 is not present).

Come and sample Manny’s wine picks of the week!

Thursay-Saturday Evenings CORDILLERA RANCH’S SIGNATURE DINING MENU

Friday Evenings SIGNATURE DINING

Sunday FAMILY MEAL FEATURE

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

Featuring live entertainment from 6-9pm. Join us for an elegant dining experience, live music, and chef’s finest features. Advance reservations strongly suggested.

$15.95++ Adults $8.95++ for children 10 and under. 11am-8pm. Remember when Mom used to cook Sunday family meals?

We do! Come join us as the club for some home style cookin’!

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

18 | January/february 2015

THE

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

January 1st CLUBS CLOSED

February 6th RED NIGHT OUT

January 15 Joseph Jewell Winemaker Dinner 6:30pm – 9:30pm $135 Members & Guests $108 Cellar Club Members Young winemakers Micah Joseph Wirth and Adrian Jewell Manspeaker started out in a garage in 2006 and have slowly expanded, making Russian River wines that tend to emphasize discretion rather than bombast.

Rated 95 points by Wine and Spirits Magazine and a “Best Buy” feature in the magazine Top 100 , their even-handed approach clearly paid off in the moderate 2012 growing seasons resulting in sleek, vidid apotheosis of Russian River Pinot Noirs.

Join us for a wonderful five course meal showcasing great single vineyard pinot noirs, chardonnays and zinfandels.

Friday , February 6th 6:30pm – 10:00pm $100++ Couple Red Night Out celebrates “Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus “ with a classic night of food, tasty libations, dancing and merriment. We are inviting all of the ladies to dress in red & gentlemen in your best cowboy tuxedo. Couples will start their evening with ladies in the main dining room and gentlemen in the Men’s 19th Hole. Ladies will enjoy a Communal Fondue Feast featuring Akaushi Beef, seafood, cheeses, fruit and veggies matched with wine flights paired to enhance their dining experience. Gentlemen will enjoy a single malt tasting featuring scotch whiskies from the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, while enjoying hors d’ouevres of wild game, seafood, chocolate and caramels. The evening will end with ladies and gentlemen joining back together for a Groovy Dance Party where special guest Disco DJ Stars Austin Powers and Penny & Polly Shagwell will be spinning favorite hits from the past and present.

February 14th VALENTINE’S DAY PRIX FIXE MENU Join us for a romantic evening at the club, featuring live entertainment and a special Valentine’s pre-fixe menu for you and your special someone! Indulge your taste for romance. Treat your sweetheart to a fabulous four-course dinner and enjoy the music & vocals of Bernie Martini on piano. Specially selected wines and champagnes will be available to complement your dining experience. Reservations are strongly recommended and are available starting at 5:30pm.

BS U CL

EVENTS : CALENDAR The Clubs of

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

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

210.363.6194 Tammera Aranda, Esthetician And Masseuse

830.336.9000 Ann-Kristin Allen, Personal Trainer

830.336.9000

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 19

MANAGER’S NOTE

22 | January/february 2015

THE

NO

BS U CL

TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE? TOO GOOD TO BE IGNORED!

By Monty Becton, General Manager The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch

Members often use the term “exclusive” when describing their club. However, the definition of ‘exclusive’ includes the description “not shared : available to only one person or group”, “only allowing in people from a high social class”, “available to only a few because of high cost.” In some cases this is an accurate description, as we hear about clubs that have become so exclusive that they’re having a difficult time generating enough revenue from their membership base to cover the expenses. As those clubs continue to struggle, their exclusivity is a contributor to failure. That doesn’t sound like a place I would want to invest in or be proud of.

I’ve had the opportunity to visit clubs where more time is spent discussing whether they should lift their coat and tie policies in their dining areas rather than creating innovative ways to welcome new Members to the club. Can you imagine how many of our members would stop supporting the club if they had to wear a coat and tie to dine?

Although The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch is considered one of the top ranked clubs in the state, the appropriate term for us is “inclusive.” I also researched that term and found “covering or including everything” and “open to everyone: not limited to certain people.” One of the things that make this community and club unique is the welcoming nature of our members and residents. As we host prospective members around the club, we typically encounter several members who ask our guests where they are from and enthusiastically welcome them to the community.

I certainly realize that we have guest policies in place to ensure that our members have ample access to their club, and that there are costs associated with the club, but in general I believe our members and staff embrace an inclusive environment. As a matter of fact, as a staff we have 4 main objectives we try to stay focused on and the #1 item on that list is “To be the friendliest and most engaging club in the world.” While that may seem like a lofty goal, it sets the tone for the experience and environment we’re dedicated to providing. Our commitment to this begins with our new hire orienta-

tions. I thoroughly enjoy leading those tours and introductions, and the opportunity to personally welcome our new team members to the club while sharing our core philosophies.

Inclusive also comes to mind when you think of the variety of amenities the club has to offer, from the River, Equestrian, Rod & Gun, Social, Golf, Spa & Athletic, and Tennis and Swim Clubs we strive to provide amenities that are attractive to a wide range of members. We challenge ourselves every day to step out of the box and think of programming we can create, designed to include more of our members in club activities. We’ve even expanded our offerings out of The Ranch to include Signature Vacations to Pinehurst, Kaui, Las Vegas, and Napa Valley, fishing trips to the coast, and excursions to shows and performances in the local area.

We certainly don’t want to be inclusive without providing value. Every year we participate in a competitive study which compares other clubs in the state and what they charge for dues and other fees. I’m proud to report that out of the three clubs in the local Hill Country area that have golf courses that rank in the top 10 according to the Dallas Morning News, our dues are $500 - $700 less per month than the other 2 clubs. We also claim the highest ranking among our competitors based on the fact that our Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course ranked 4th in the state in 2014, which is the highest ranking of any club in south Texas or the Hill Country.

Stability is another important aspect of a club. 2014 brought ownership changes to several clubs in the San Antonio market. To my knowledge, 3 private clubs and 2 resorts in our local market experienced ownership changes in the last year.

We’re one of the few clubs in our market who have the great fortune of maintaining the same ownership since the club opened in 2006.

2014 was a very good year for the club and a great example of how our members and residents embrace growth within the community and club. We enrolled or upgraded 76 memberships for the year.

Our attrition was at an all-time low with only 26 resignations, and the majority of those were due to relocations. It’s been

almost nine months since we were awarded Golf Course of The Year by the NGCOA (National Golf Course Owners Association) and the criteria for winning that award: • Exceptional Quality of the Course • Exceptional Quality of Ownership and Management • Outstanding Contribution to its Community • Significant Contribution to the Game So when you consider the variety of amenities we provide to our members, the beauty of the community and clubs and the value and stability associated with the club, we have a lot to be proud of. After all, “Life is better out here”!

I’m excited about the future and believe 2015 is going to be another outstanding year; we have over 40 homes under construction on The Ranch which will provide us with more friendly faces around the club.

We have a great calendar of events scheduled for the New Year, including the 2015 “Denim & Derby” Shindig on Saturday, May 2nd which lives up to its billing of “A GOOD TIME FOR A GOOD CAUSE.” For more information, log on to www.cordilleraranchshindig.org.

Happy New Year!

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 23

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26 | January/february 2015

THE BS U CL

eat t at Trunk or Tr

Gavriella & Ellio

Todd, Alliso n, Catherin e Gerch at Trunk or Tre at

Trevinos at Trunk or Treat

Wicked Witches at the Equestrian Center t 50s Girls a at re T Trunk or

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 27

Golf

GOLF

Happy New Year! I wanted to take an opportunity to share with you some of the exciting things we have planned for 2015.

There were a number of successful events last year that we hope to build on this year and a few new things planned for next year. The Bear Trap Friday afternoon game will be in its third year and I hope you will come out and participate. It is a great way to get to know other players or just play in the weekly game with your own group. The format is a running quota with skins. We will be trying a few new things with our Men’s Night Out program during the summer months so stay tuned.

The MGA Staff Kick-Off Scramble will take place on Saturday, January 31st. We will once again have key Cordillera Ranch staff personnel joining each group. This is a great way for so many of us to get to know our members and a chance for you to maybe play with someone that you have not yet played golf with. I think everyone that participated last year enjoyed the day so hope you will help us get the year started off right and play in the tournament.

Cordillera Ranch will be hosting the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America National Championship on February 22nd-23rd. Take a look at the feature article on this event in this issue for details. I know Director of Agronomy Mark Semm and his team are excited to be showcasing the golf course and we are looking forward to a special event.

On February 28th, we will be hosting the Second Annual Cordillera Ranch Putting Championship. We have an awesome day planned as we hope to identify the best putters here at the Club. Breakfast and Bloody Marys begins at 7:30am before heading out for a 9:00am shotgun. The format is BB of the twosome and there will be two flights based on combined handicap. Team entry fee is $80 and we will have an optional skins game, as well as pari-mutuel wagering for those who would like to make it a little interesting. I hope you will join us as we look forward to a fun day on the course.

Finally, thanks for your support of Gevin Allen in his first year as our Director of Instruction. He had an outstanding year and will continue working this year toward developing an instructional program that will benefit all of our members. He will have new programs developed specifically for golfers of all varying abilities. Gevin is now a TPI Certified Level 3 Golf Professional which affords our members an opportunity to gain insight into the latest trends in teaching and golf fitness.

We are always looking for ways to grow and improve our golf operation so please let me know if you have any suggestions that will help us improve the member golf experience here at Cordillera Ranch.

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

28 | January/february 2015

E TH BS U CL

GOLF Cordillera Ranch to host GCSAA National Championship

by Robert Rodriguez

The 2018 Final Four and its potential economic impact may have absorbed most of the local headlines recently, but there’s another national championship headed to the San Antonio area in late February that is sure to bring a lot of green.

Green thumbs, that is.

The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) will conduct its 2015 golf championships February 21-23 at several area golf courses, including The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch.

The club’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Design will be the site of the championships’ marquee event, the National Championship, a 36-hole stroke play event featuring 100 of the top superintendents with a verified handicap index of 5.0 or below. An overall champion, as well as a senior champion (age 50 and over), will be crowned.

“Having our national championship at a place like Cordillera Ranch adds even more energy to this event,” said Keith A. Ihms, President of the GCSAA. “We are extremely honored to have such an elite club host our most prestigious tournament.”

Executives from the GCSAA, Cordillera Ranch and The Toro Company, the event’s presenting sponsor for the past 21 years, attended a November 18 press conference to introduce the club, as well as superintendents from different area golf clubs and select media.

Following the news conference, many toured the club and played the course.

They all came away awestruck.

“The course is simply amazing,” said Jonathan Wall, Equipment Editor for PGATOUR.com. “There is so much character and the conditions were flawless. And the par-3 16th, it’s as good as advertised.”

The Golf Championships are held in conjunction with the 2015 Golf Industry Show (GIS), the GCSAA’s annual industry gathering. The GIS will take place February 21-26, 2015 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in downtown San Antonio.

“People are eagerly anticipating coming to San Antonio,” Ihms said, “and having the national championship here adds to that excitement.”

A year ago, Deron Zendt won the GCSAA National Championship, shooting 5-under over two rounds at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Fla. While 2014 U.S. Ryder Cupper and Cordillera Ranch member Jimmy Walker’s course record 63 should be safe, what participants might find most attractive about the club (besides the par-3 16th) is the wonderful hospitality and the friendly membership.

“We look forward to hosting the GCSAA National Championship,” said Monty Becton, Cordillera Ranch general manager. “Mark Semm and his

staff do an incredible job of getting the course ready for the membership and their guests on a daily basis.”

Semm was honored that Cordillera Ranch would host the GCSAA National Championship. After all, it’s not every day that he gets a chance to showcase his work to his peers.

“We have the opportunity to hear feedback from some of the best [superintendents] in the industry,” Semm said.

“It will be a great learning opportunity.”

One would think Semm would be stressed since he has to prime the course for his cohorts. Yet, as Becton attested, Semm and his staff approach every day like it’s the club championship or the C-Star member-guest.

However, those events occur when the weather is typically warm and sunny.

The GCSAA National Championship will occur in late February, when the weather could be unpredictable.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Sunday it’s 75 degrees with a 15 mph south wind and Monday it’s 40 degrees with a 25 mph north wind,” Semm said.

“The pressure will be on the players [to play well].”

No matter what Mother Nature throws at Semm and his peers, the GCSAA National Championship promises to kick-start a wonderful and exciting week for not only Cordillera Ranch, but the 2015 Golf Industry Show.

“This [national championship] is like an icebreaker for a weeklong show,” Ihms said. “It’s away from work, gives them some time to loosen up and relax, and gets them ready for a full week in San Antonio and at the convention center.

“As a Texas native, I can confidently proclaim Cordillera Ranch is Hill Country golf at its finest. The players are really going to enjoy this venue.”

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 29

GOLF The Callaway Alpha 815 is the predecessor of the original Alpha launched last year. When Callaway designed the 815’s they listened to tour players and average golfers, hence the Alpha 815 has two versions with the other being called the Alpha 815 Double Black Diamond (DD).

The size of both of the drivers is 460 CC, however the Double Black Diamond has a deeper face with a more compact look when addressing the ball (much like a persimmon driver). The Alpha 815, on the other hand, looks larger and wider because of its shallow face. Both drivers feature a new technology called RMOTO, which is a redistribution of weight inside the club head to increase Moment of Inertia (it keeps you in the short grass).

All of the drivers in the market have a very thin face to produce maximum distance, however both of the Alpha 815 has more adjustability than any driver made with 16 different face angle/lie combinations, 2 interchangeable weight ports and a gravity core located vertically inside the head to produce various spin rates. This is where the flexibility of the adjustability will produce more distance.

The driver is available with lofts of 9, 10.5 and 12 degrees while the Double

Black Diamond is available in lofts of 9 and 10.5 degrees. Each driver head can be adjusted by adding up to 2 degrees or reducing by 1 degree in lofts, in reality you will receive four drivers with the price of one. The lie angle of each head can also be adjusted to a more upright setting, which favors a draw ball flight. The upright setting is also useful for the taller players who are fitted with upright irons.

The look of the driver will be similar to their irons.

The two weight ports contain two interchangeable weights. These weights will influence the face angle at impact. When the heavier weight is toward the toe, the club will have a tendency to stay open at impact and vice versa. The weight ports can also be used for swing weight purposes. The weights can be changed with lighter or heavier weights depending upon the player.

The gravity core technology is what makes the Callaway 815 unique compared to other drivers on the market. The gravity core is a steel stick with one side of the stick heavier than the other (similar to a tee). The stick is inserted from underneath the club head. The spin rate will increase when the heavy side of the stick

CALLAWAY

ALPHA 815 30 | January/february 2015

is inserted on the top of the driver and vice versa when the heavy side is inserted towards the sole driver. With this feature the spin rate can be manipulated independent of the loft and hence change the shape and trajectory of the shot. The difference in spin rate can be as much as 500 rpm, which is significant.

The most important benefit to the Callaway 815 is the flexibility of changing the performance of the driver to your advantage. For example, your swing may change with time and now you can adjust your driver to liking. A slicer may need a driver with a higher loft, weight towards the heel and an upright lie angle.

Another advantage to the gravity core is the adjustment of spin rate to accommodate certain conditions. When it is windy, the gravity core can be changed to lower the spin rate. On the other hand, when the fairway is wet, the gravity core can be adjusted for maximum carry by setting it to favor more spin.

Please contact us if you have any questions or want to get fit. We can further explain the benefits of each setting and how it will enhance your game.

PLAYING THE COURSE Hole #1 – 493 yards Par 4 – Handicap #9

The journey begins! Like the Par 4 #10 hole at Cordillera Ranch, the opening hole offers stunning views of the Texas Hill Country and the Twins Sisters peaks. It is the #9 handicap hole on the course and serves as an excellent opening hole that is very fair yet challenging.

The hole from the very back Bear tees is extremely long but typically plays a little shorter with a prevailing SE wind and it is down valley. The tee-shot favors a draw on this dog-leg left Par 4 as the fairway slopes from right to left. A tee-shot hit at the fairway bunkers on the right-hand side will often end up in the middle of the fairway. It is better to favor the right side as there is trouble left where an errant tee-shot can bound into a hazard full of native grass on the left side of the hole. The fairway is fairly wide and hitting it will leave a short to mid-iron.

The second shot requires the right club selection as the green is large but well protected on the left-hand side by two bunkers. When the flagstick is located on the back-left corner it is important to take enough club to carry the bunkers. There is a bail-out area to the right of the green that is the safe shot but this area requires a deft touch with your chip shot as the green runs away from you in that direction and gauging speed is very difficult.

Trying to figure out green speeds at the beginning of the round can be challenging. A putt toward the back of the green on this hole runs down valley and down grain so will usually be very fast. A putt moving the other direction is just the opposite. Understanding this and how it affects putting will go a long way in determining how many putts are holed that day as it is not easy to see.

Hole #1 at Cordillera Ranch can be considered a birdie hole. It is very fair and by getting your tee-shot in the fairway players have a chance at accomplishing that.

The hole is a great beginning as it showcases a little of everything the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course has to offer. Get ready, the experience is just beginning!

32 | January/february 2015

BEYOND the

DIAMOND

by Michael Mancha :: photography by West Vita

Driving onto the Beckett’s Hill Country ranch, you get a deep sense of Texas country living. The sprawling 115 acres are picturesque with distant hills splashed against rich blue sky. From the moment you enter you are greeted with beautiful trees peppered across the property, all changing colors in the crisp fall air.

The porch of their beautiful ranch home is covered with Christmas décor seemingly in mid-design. Wreaths, trees, green, red and gold create an inviting Texas Christmas vibe. Josh stands towering in the front door and welcomes us in.

For Beckett, a Spring native, Texas has always been home. As a former Major League Baseball pitcher, Josh has seen a lot of the country. After his brilliant high school career, Josh was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 1999 draft. After 4 years in sunny Miami, Josh was traded on Thanksgiving Day in 2006 to the Boston Red Sox. Josh would spend another 6 years on the East coast before moving teams once again in 2012, this time to sunny Los Angeles where he would spend his last two years with the Dodgers.

But some where in all that, going from south to east to west, and traveling across the country in between, Texas never left Josh’s heart.

“There is something weird about Texas guys,” Beckett said. “I met a lot of them through the years playing, and it seemed like none of us ever moved. A lot of guys would adopt the city where they were playing and stay there. I never did that.”

Despite spending months away from home, at the end of every season, Josh would make his way back.

“I always foresaw myself coming back, and I did, every year in the off season,” he said. “I never spent an off season away from Texas.”

So much of what makes Beckett who he is, has to do with where he makes his home. Josh and his wife, Holly bought their Hill Country home three years ago and have since settled into the life out here.

“I’m not a slow person,” Beckett said.

“I like to stay busy. I like to be going and getting stuff done. I’m not a guy who just has somebody come and do everything for me.”

But, in spite of his admittedly active nature, he has found that they enjoy the slowness of the Hill Country.

“When we want to slow down, that’s the way the Hill Country is. That’s the way Boerne is,” he said. “It’s nice to live back here away from the hustle and bustle.”

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 33

“

That’s what Cordillera Ranch is all about. The golf course is obviously awesome, but it’s about the people more than anything.

”

34 | January/february 2015

GOLF AND CORDILLERA RANCH Having lived in central Texas for a few years now, Josh has lived in a couple different spots and played around the area, but there was something special about Cordillera Ranch that led him to become a member.

“A lot of friends who are members there, talked to me about it,” he said. “I went out there enough times with them and I got to meet more guys, meet more of the people. Holly got to meet the wives of a lot of the guys I played golf with.”

For the Beckett’s, finding a community they loved didn’t require a big city. It was just about finding people they could actually connect with.

“That’s what Cordillera Ranch is all about,” he said. “The golf course is obviously awesome, but it’s about the people more than anything.”

Josh start playing golf not too long after he was drafted. A fellow minor leaguer told him to get some clubs and 16 years later, he’s never looked back. And getting to play at Cordillera Ranch is a huge benefit to living in the Hill Country.

“Golf, to me, is about that competitiveness with yourself but I enjoy playing golf with other people,” he said. “I like the s**t -talking, the banter. I like everything that comes with golf.”

Josh says that when he started, he found that it was a lot like pitching.

“I’m a competitive guy, and it’s one of those sports where you’re not just playing against the guys you are with, but you’re playing against the golf course, you’re playing against the game itself, and I don’t think it’s something you ever really master.”

Playing golf became a regular thing for Beckett, he says it was something he could do between starts. Eventually, fate would bring the two games together like he never expected. Earlier this year, on Memorial Day weekend, Beckett and the Dodgers were in Philadelphia to play the Phillies. On his day off, just like he’d done many times before, Josh went to play golf. But not just any course. That day, Josh was invited to play at Pine Valley Golf Club, the number one rated course in the US. An opportunity that could only be matched by what would happen that Sunday. As the starting pitcher for Sunday’s game, Josh would go on to do what most Major League pitchers never accomplish - he pitched a no-hitter, the

first of his career. It was a weekend he wouldn’t forget - two rare events happening so closely together.

Josh has played his share of great courses, Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, LA Country Club, Bel-Air Country Club, The Cal Club in San Francisco, and Pine Valley. But when he’s home, Cordillera Ranch is were you’ll find him.

“Every year going to spring training in February, I’d have that one last round at Cordillera and I’d ask myself, ‘Why am I leaving?’” he said.

ON THE RANCH Just 28 miles southeast of Cotulla, Texas, is a place you’ll find Beckett if you don’t find him in the Hill Country.

A 7,000-acre spread of the finest South Texas land called Herradura Ranch.

Beckett’s ranch is very much his second home. Even though they offer commercial hunting, the ranch is a family place. Since he was young, Josh says that his dad was into hunting and anything outdoors. It’s a lifestyle that has never left.

“Anytime I’m at the ranch my family is with me. We have our own little place out there,” he said.

Whether it’s fishing, hunting or mending fences, the South Texas life is a big part of his. Josh says he isn’t one to just let other people do things for him. If he’s out there, he’s working and if he’s not working, he’s hunting.

Unlike pitching or golf, hunting is a change of pace. It’s slower and quieter.

It’s brings a kind of balance to the things he loves to do.

“I love being out there at five in the morning - you can see but the sun’s not up yet. Just being by yourself in a blind and respecting God’s creation,” he said.

Hunting and living life on the ranch is in his blood, it’s very much of part of who he is.

“Whenever I’m leaving the gate, I already know when I’m coming back,” he said.

FOR A CAUSE It’s clear that off of the pitchers mound, Beckett loves two things, hunting and golf. A few years ago, he decided to take those two passions and use them for a good cause which is when Beckett and his friend radio host, Rusty Baker, began a celebrity charity event.

“It started out at the ranch, we did a doe hunt,” Beckett said. “We donated all

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 35

the meat to Hunters for the Hungry. We had a bunch of celebrities there, comedians and country music artists, playing guitar and telling jokes.”

For four years they held the event at the ranch, and despite people excitement every year, they didn’t seem to be raising the kind of funds they wanted.

“I think the first year we raised $5000,” he said. “The next couple years it was four then six.”

Three years ago, Beckett and Baker decided to move the celebrity charity event to the Hill Country and to change it from a hunt to a golf tournament and that’s when it really took off.

“It just exploded,” Beckett said.

“Since we turned it into a golf tournament... we’ve gone over $2 million that we’ve donated.”

The money that the event raises is donated to Show of Support, a non-profit started by Terry Johnson, takes wounded warriors on hunting trips. While they are off hunting, they also take their spouses and children and treat them as well.

“Whether it’s a man or woman, coming back from war, they are trying to get back to some kind of normalcy,” Beckett said. “Sometimes just going deer hunting gets them back to what they’re used to. They do stuff for the whole family and it’s just awesome.”

Josh says the celebrity event attracts everyone from professional golfers, baseball players and football players to many musicians, especially Texas country artists.

QUITE A CAREER This past season with the Dodgers would be Beckett’s last. Battling several different injuries he officially retired in October after 13 amazing seasons in the majors.

Josh’s career was one that many major leaguers never accomplish. He won the 2003 World Series with the Florida Marlins, a team that was never expected to.

“I don’t think any of us would have believed if you had told us at the beginning of the year that we would win the World Series,” he said. “I’ll never be a part of anything that was that tight-knitt.”

Beckett won the World Series MVP that year. He would play a couple more seasons with Florida before being traded to the Boston Red Sox in 2006. Once again, Josh would join a team that was making

36 | January/february 2015

history. A year after Florida had won the series, Boston would make a run in 2004 and end an 86 year “curse”. In 2007, with Beckett on board, Boston would make another run at the championship winning the World Series. That year, Josh won the American League Championship Most Valuable Player (MVP). Aside from his World Series wins and MVP awards,

Beckett is a three-time MLB All-Star and had his no-hitter with LA in 2014.

“When it’s all said and done, you end up with memorabilia from three different teams and you don’t know which one to hang up,” he said.

Looking back at where his career had taken him, Beckett has a great perspective. He speaks with no regret, no lack

of closure. He has worked hard to put himself in a place where he can continue to do the things he loves and he wears it proudly.

“Where I started was a perfect place for me to start and were I finished was a perfect place for me to end.”

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 37

STAFF PROFILE

KRISTEN SELBY

830.336.9000 Equestrian Center Manager HOMETOWN Bulverde, TX FAMILY Husband, Mom and Dad, and Brother

HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR FIELD? I have always had a love for horses and I began riding when I was 9. I began training horses when I was 14 and have been training ever since. I also started teaching horseback lessons when I was 17 and have greatly enjoyed sharing my knowledge with children and adults.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH CORDILLERA RANCH? 4 months WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF WORKING IN THE HILL COUNTRY? I love the fresh air, the peace of nature, and the relationships I develop with the horses.

What are your hobbies/interests?

Training horses and competing in cutting and roping events.

FAVORITE QUOTE? “We ride and never worry about the fall, guess that’s just the cowboy in us all” –George Strait

FAVORITE MOVIE AND WHY? The Man from Snowy River. I love the natural way of living and that horses were their means of transportation.

Riding through mountains, valleys and woods is such an amazing experience.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR BUSINESS? The horse business, like many things in life, has its extreme highs and extreme lows. Some years the breeding and selling business is booming and some years it is a big challenge. Through the good and the bad, I have always kept horses as a part of my life.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCE IN YOUR BUSINESS? I love that moment when you finally get a great connection and bond between you and a young horse. I love the feeling of knowing that I was the first person to ever touch, halter, or ride that horse, and that I gained his trust enough to do so.

FAVORITE ASPECT OR FEATURE AT CORDILLERA RANCH? Even though Cordillera Ranch turned into a neighborhood, it is still natural. The grass is still long and ungroomed. There are still open fields, and thick brush.

38 | January/february 2015

HISTORY

A few years back I received a short article written

by Mark McCurley for the Cordillera Ranch Nature Club. He wrote about moving to Cordillera Ranch and wanting to learn more about the history of the area. The Clubs has been using what we call the “Stagecoach House” for our Outfitter Center since the summer of 2006, and the summer of 2015 will see our departure into a new Outfitter Center on the east end of the ranch.

Mark found an interesting history book on the area titled “The German Settlement of the Texas Hill Country” by Jefferson Morganthaler. It is a great little book that tells why, when, where and how the Germans settled this part of Texas. Cordillera Ranch, although not mentioned by name in this book, does have a connection that some of you may not have realized.

40 | January/february 2015

Page 107 of the book says “Charcoal City was an extended string of charcoal-burner camps along the Guadalupe River between Sisterdale and New Braunfels. Lasting from about 1880 to 1919, it had a post office in the Sueltenfuss home, called first the Guadalupe Post Office, then the Schiller Post Office.”

The Sueltenfuss home and Schiler Post Office is what we refer to as the “Stagecoach House”, or Outfitter Center, and is located at the end of Swede Springs Road. If you have never stopped by, you should contact me to see the place prior to us moving out in late spring of 2015. The Outfitter Center has been a wonderful place for our members and their guest to gather prior to going on a river trip over the years and provides a glimpse of what homes looked like in the area in the 19th century.

As the name Charcoal City suggest there was a pretty successful enterprise working in this area at that time. The Germans found a practical use for the Ashe Juniper (Cedar) that covered so much of the land in this area. They began to turn the wood into charcoal for their own settlements use but also as a trade or cash source from the larger San Antonio market. As commercial charcoal production rose, they needed more hands to work the business and so Anglos and Tejanos were hired to clear land on a sharecrop basis.

If you are like most Texans, charcoal comes in a Kingsford bag, is the little crumbly stuff that works in the aquarium filter or in its finest forms is used by budding artist for their sketches. As Mark researched his article he learned that charcoal also has a medicinal use, a common treatment for gastric issues like indigestion. Mark was clueless however on how charcoal was made by the settlers who inhabited this area.

If you have cut any Ashe Junipers on your property, you know how hard that work is. Obviously that was the start of the process for the settlers. The downed trees would then be cut into relatively equal size pieces for the billets. The next step takes a bit more skill and experience to pile billets of wood on their ends so as to form a conical pile, openings being left at the bottom to admit air, with a central shaft to serve as a flue.

The whole pile is covered with turf or moistened clay. The firing is begun at the bottom of the flue,

and gradually spreads outwards and upwards. The success of the operation depends upon the rate of the combustion. Under average conditions, 100 parts of wood yield about 60 parts by volume, or 25 parts by weight, of charcoal; small scale production on the spot often yields only about 50%, large scale was efficient to about 90% even by the seventeenth century. The operation is so delicate that it was generally left to colliers (professional charcoal burners).

Thanks to Mark’s article, we know a little bit more about the first neighborhood in this area. I really hope that reading this story will encourage you to learn more about the Texas Hill Country and also that it will entice you to visit our Cordillera Ranch Outfitter Center. Who knows that might just lead to a day with your family and friends on a kayak trip down the Guadalupe, an afternoon of fishing or a nature walk to make your own fossil or Indian artifact discovery? Have fun outdoors and enjoy the wonders of nature in this amazing place.

Thanks to Mark McCurley who put together most of this information!

Shane Reynolds Outdoor Recreation Director The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 41

OUTDOORS

By Shane Reynolds, Outdoor Recreation Director Clubs of Cordillera Ranch

42 | January/february 2015

FLY FISHING THE HIGH SIERRA The Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, also known as the Range of Light by naturalist John Muir, runs north to south for 400 miles and 70 miles east to west.

There are three National Parks within its boundaries, Yosemite in the north and Sequoia and Kings Canyon in the south.

The Sierra is also home to Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America, as well as twenty National Wilderness Areas and two National Monuments.

One of the special things about working at Cordillera Ranch is getting to travel with our club members and introducing them to some of the great outdoor recreation opportunities in this wonderful country of ours. When a few members asked me about doing something special this summer, I spoke to them about visiting the high country of the Sierra Nevada. For most people who live, work and play here in Texas, the alpine setting of a high mountain range is usually only a passing thought. The further I explored their interest of fly fishing and visiting the mountains, I focused in on an area I’ve visited many times with both groups and by myself solo, the eastern slope of the Sierra just south of Mt. Whitney. Mt Whitney, at 14,505’, is the highest point in the contiguous United States and just to the north, south and west of this majestic peak are hundreds of high alpine lakes full of trout.

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

As our group prepares for this summer adventure, there are several things we will do to ensure all are prepared and have the right expectations on what to look forward to. The logistics for this trip include a flight from San Antonio to Los Angeles International Airport. Once in Los Angeles, we’ll load our gear into a rental van and head north, making three stops along the way. One stop is for groceries, which will include backpacking gourmet meals made from fresh ingredients. As a backcountry guide for the past twenty

BS U CL

LEGACY LODGE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA The Club will offer a 4 day/3 night trip with a layover in Vancouver to Legacy Lodge in British Columbia. Legacy Lodge offers exceptional conventional and fly fishing for Pacific salmon on the calm, protected waters of Rivers Inlet. Known around the globe for it’s magnificent scenery and unparalleled salmon fishing, the waters of Rivers Inlet teem with some of the largest Coho and Chinook Salmon in the world.

In fact, more 50 to 60 pound Chinook salmon are caught in this fjord-like inlet each year than in any other area in British Columbia. Full of energy and fight, these salmon can battle for hours, over incredible distances.

Rivers Inlet lies within the Great Bear Rainforest, the planets last large expanses of coastal temperate rainforest. At 8+ million acres, it is 5 times the size of Banff National Park and represents one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

With an unmatched biological output of 500 tons per acre, it’s 40 percent greater than tropical rain forests.

Rivers Inlet holds the largest concentration of brown bears in BC, and represents the epicenter of BC’s salmon producing areas with over 20 streams, rivers, and feeder creeks supporting the annual spawning rituals of all five salmon species.

Rivers Inlet long history of commercial fishing and canneries has given way to the adventurous angler who pry its craggy shoreline and steep granite walls in search of North America’s largest salmon, the Wannock Chinook.

Whether you prefer fly fishing or conventional fishing, this Signature Vacation will offer memories of a lifetime.

The abundant Coho, often in excess of 20 pounds migrate through amazingly high in the water column are so aggressive, they are often caught a few feet behind the boat.

Imagine a 20-pound Coho striking your cut plug bait trolled 20 feet from your rod tip, then peeling 200 feet of line off your single action reel in seconds. This is Rivers Inlet excitement, and your Legacy Lodge experience at its best!

The fertile waters of Rivers Inlet offer a variety of bottom feeders, as Halibut, Yellow Eye and Lingcod are abundant all season.

“In 19 years of producing fishing shows throughout Canada and B.C., this is absolutely the best saltwater fly fishing I have EVER experienced! Legacy offers some of the best access you will ever find.” – MARK PENDLINGTON, HOST OF WEST COAST SPORTING JOURNAL

THE

The summer of 2015 will see us offer two fishing trips that offer a once in a lifetime experience. The first is a trip to Legacy Lodge in British Columbia to fish for Coho and Chinhook Salmon as well as Halibut. The second trip is to the Sierra Nevada of California to fish for Golden, Brown and Rainbow trout.

three years I have learned that there are fewer things more enjoyable than a great meal at the end of a long day in the mountains. Our second stop will be at a local backcountry store to pick up fuel for my backpacking stoves, which you cannot fly with, and our California fishing license. Our third and final stop will be in the eastern Sierra where we pick up our backcountry permits.

From there we head to our trailhead in the eastern Sierra just outside of Lone Pine, California. The trailhead where we spend our first night, Horseshoe Meadows, is located at 9,698’ above sea level.

Our first night is spent here to acclimatize our bodies to the altitude. If you have never been at this altitude you will be short of breath just walking across a parking lot with no backpack on. We’ll pitch camp and settle down around a campfire on night one simply getting used to the thin air. On day two we will layout and distribute all the group gear and food for the trip. Each person in the group will be carrying anywhere from 25% 40% of their body weight in a backpack.

Although I teach minimum impact and lightweight packing, people who are not used to backpacking always bring too much gear. One of my favorite teaching methods I use is a pre-trip meeting where I lay everything I bring with me out on a tarp and let people see my gear. For some, they take note, but for most, they soon forget as they begin to cram pounds and pounds of unnecessary gear into their pack. Go light is my motto.

Our destination is Cottonwood Lakes basin. Cottonwood Lakes, located at the southern tip of the John Muir Wilderness, are home to California’s state fish, the Golden Trout. Cottonwood Lakes basin has many pristine lakes and creeks located between Mount Langley and Cirque Peak. Other lakes in the area we may choose to fish are Muir Lake, South Fork Lakes, Cirque, Long and High Lakes.

From our basecamp in the Cottonwood Lakes basin, we’ll explore the rugged alpine setting in search of trout with fly rods in hand. The primary trout found in these waters are the California Golden trout and native Brook trout. Occasionally we’ll hook a Brown trout and there are a few types of hybrids. One of my favorite fly fishing quotes is from Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and he states that “It’s not about catching the fish, it’s about the fish catching you.” This trip is sure to be a lasting memory for all who venture into the Sierra Nevada with us!

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 43

Rehabilitate in Boerne, One Step Closer to Home Cibolo Creek provides accommodations in the heart of Boerne,

with individualized therapy programs that enable one to return home quickly. By receiving rehabilitation services close to home, family and friends are able to visit often and with ease.

Cibolo Creek stands apart by:

• Being the most contemporary rehabilitation facility in Boerne • Providing physical, occupational, speech, and vital stim therapy in a modern and innovative setting under the guidance of highly trained and experienced therapists • Offering both inpatient and outpatient therapy services to improve one’s overall strength and mobility • Facilitating admissions 24/7

1440 River Road • Boerne, Texas 78006 • 830.816.5095

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NEW YEAR NEW HEALTHY SMILE NEW HEALTHY YOU

The New Year is a perfect time to commit to improving one’s health. Now that research has shown that an unhealthy mouth can contribute to cancer, heart disease, and stroke... there is no better time to commit to making a new patient exam appointment with Dr. Chet Hawkins. Just as Dr. Hawkins was committed to obtaining the highest level of dental continuing education, he is committed to serving his patients with the highest quality of dental care.

We would be honored with have you join our dental family.

Please call our office at 830-249-7870

Master in the Academy of General Dentistry • 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

The Dental Wellness Center • 806 N. Main St. • Boerne • 830-249-7870 • www.drchethawkins.com

44 | January/february 2015

from the mouth of babes

ANSLEY BUSBEE Age 6 School Cibolo Creek Elementary What’s the meanest trick one of your siblings has ever played on you? Did you do anything to get him / her back?

She doesn’t play tricks but she tries to boss me around.

What does your mom do all day while you are at school?

She walks the dogs and goes shopping for clothes.

46 | January/february 2015

What does your dad do all day while you are at school?

He goes to work but I don’t know what he does.

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?

Chocolate chip pancakes and bacon If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would go to Hawaii because it has a big beach.

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Stay home and play with my dogs and sleep late.

Do you think your dad would rather watch football or go shopping with your mom?

Watch football because he loves football.

I have never seen him shop.

What do you want to do on your next vacation?

I want to go swimming because swimming is fun.

How do you think your school teacher would describe you?

Helpful to my friends.

CASEN HOEGEMEYER Age 8 School Cibolo creek elementary school What’s the meanest trick one of your siblings has ever played on you? Did you do anything to get him / her back?

My brother flew a helicopter in my face and I punched him for it. That’s a true story.

What does your mom do all day while you are at school?

She washes the dishes and runs errands.

What does your dad do all day while you are at school?

He goes to work and sleeps:).

What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?

Scrambled eggs and bacon.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

The Himalayas because it’s cold there and there is a lot of snow.

What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?

Play football outside with my brothers and watch football on TV. Do you think your dad would rather watch football or go shopping with your mom?

Definitely football because he loves football.

What do you want to do on your next vacation?

I want to go to Colorado because i like the snow. It’s fun to build a snowman and have snowball fights with my brothers.

Skiing with my family and friends is fun too.

How do you think your school teacher would describe you?

She would say I’m funny, rowdy, nice and smart!

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 47

DINING

CELEBRATE LOVE AND ROMANCE IN FEBRUARY WITH EVENTS GEARED TO STIR YOUR HEART!

CLASS presents “Red Night Out” Friday, Feburary 6th 6:30pm – 10:00pm $100++ couple Red Night Out celebrates “Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus,” with a classic night of food, tasty libations, dancing and merriment. We are inviting all the ladies to dress in red and gentlemen in your best cowboy tuxedo.

Couples will start their evening with ladies in the Main Dining Room and gentlemen in the Men’s 19th Hole.

48 | January/february 2015

Ladies will enjoy a Communal Fondue Feast featuring Akaushi Beef, seafood, cheeses, fruit, and veggies matched with wine flights paired to enhance their dining experience.

Gentlemen will enjoy a Single Malt Tasting featuring scotch whiskies from the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, while enjoying hors d’oeuvres of wild game, seafood, chocolate and caramels.

The evening will end with Ladies and Gentlemen joining back together for a Groovy Dance Party, where Special Guest Disco DJ Stars Austin Powers and Penny & Polly Shagwell will be spinning favorite hits from the past and present.

THE

Valentine’s Day

BS U CL

Saturday, February 14, 2015 Prix Fixe Dinner Dining & Dancing 6:00pm – 10:00pm $75++ per member 2014 Valentine Prix Fixe

First

Wild Mushroom – Florentine Soup Croissant Crisps

Second

Grilled Shrimp and “Pearls” Ginger – Sweet Chili Butter

Third

Cider Poached Gala Apple – Baby Spinach Salad Cheddar Curds, Toasted Almonds Champagne Vinaigrette

Fourth

(Choice of…)

Rosemary Dusted Texas Quail Shitake Risotto, Buttered Broccolini Aged Balsamic Reduction – OR – Pan Seared Jumbo Diver Scallops Shrimp and Spanish Chorizo Saffron Rice, roasted Brussels Sprouts “Tio Pepe” Sherry Butter – OR – Akaushi Steak Au Poivre Yukon Gold Potato Gratin, Asparagus Bundle – OR – “Lover Duet” Grilled Petit Filet and Poached Main Lobster Tail Tillamook- Truffle Mashed Potatoes, Tomato Tartlet Drawn Butter and Red Shallot Demi-Glace (Additional $10 Charge)

Sweet Endings

Cordillera Opera Cake Or Red Velvet Cake – Sweet Cream Parfait Indulge your taste for romance. Treat your sweetheart to a fabulous four course dinner and enjoy the music & vocals of Bernie Martini on piano. Specially selected wines and champagnes will be available to complement your dining experience. Reservations are strongly recommended and are available starting at 5:30pm.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 49

210.623.0505

www.pristinepoolstexas.com

830.537.3410

www.sterlinghometech.com

FITNESS

The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch

Golf Fitness • Update •

By Ann-Kristin and Gevin Allen

The connection of golf and fitness has been vague among common golfers, however on the professional tour, it is a necessity. Almost all PGA Tour players have a specific exercise routine that enhances their performance and most importantly prevents injury. At the amateur level, a golf specific exercise program should not be an afterthought, gut rather a precursor when playing golf regularly.

Why? Physical limitations are one of the leading causes of swing faults. The primary reason tour players’ golf swings are functional is because they have trained their body off the golf course to assist in fixing their swing faults.

TPI (Titleist Performance Institute) is the world’s leading educational organization and research facility dedicated to the study of how the human body functions in relation to the golf swing.

TPI has studied thousands of golfers ranging from the top professionals to amateurs, and the differences between them in relation to their physical capabilities to their swing pattern.

We received the original TPI Certifications a few years ago but completed Level 3 certifications at the end of last year. This is not to say that the original certification was not important, in fact it was necessary to acquire a system to evaluate golfers, identify their limitations and prescribe the correct exercises for those limitations. These evaluations and exercises have been proven by TPI to improve a golfer’s performance regardless of their level.

Level 3 certifications were important for us to acquire in order to separate us from other fitness and golf professionals.

Although we have over 50 years of experience combined, we had to stay current with the latest findings in our industry.

52 | January/february 2015

Not many Level 3 Certifications were acquired in the State of Texas and currently none in the Hill Country area. Each level of the certification process consisted of testing, lectures, intense hands on training and case studies.

TPI Level 3 Fitness Professional is a certification that Ann-Kristin has acquired.

TPI Level 2 Fitness Professional focuses on strength, power screening, exercise progressions, body weight training, group training, cardiovascular evaluation and protocols, wrist and ankle screens and advance biomechanics. Level 3 objectives include: nutrition, advance strength, power development, advance swing concepts and balance.

TPI Level 3 Golf Mechanics is a certification acquired by Gevin that concentrates on the science of the golf swing, new ball flight laws, short and long game advance 3-D biomechanics, force plate data and advance club fitting. Different swing philosophies and their effects were also discussed. The information given is separated into two different levels.

Most importantly these certifications assist our clients by improving their golf game faster and more efficiently. All of the information and resources that we have acquired have been proven accurate as a result of the data collected from TPI and their testing. TPI has a specific system for improving each of our clients’ golf game in relation to their swing limitations and faults. Our job is to use the system and simplify it for the members where they can self coach themselves.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call Gevin at 210-632-2787 or email at gallen@cordilleraranch.com, and Ann-Kristin at 210-367-5942 or norway1961@yahoo.com.

THE BS U CL

FAST HARD FACTS TO

IMPROVE YOUR GOLF GAME When working on a new golf swing, it is better to play rather than practicing on the range. The change will be more permanent because you are encountering random targets.

Your daily water intake should be half of your weight in ounces. 25% of that amount should be in the morning. Dehydration will lead to stiffness in the back nine.

Always make your practice sessions more difficult than the experiences you will encounter on the golf course. For example, practice out of tight lies or practice putting to a smaller hole.

The face angle at impact will determine the start line of the ball.

The swing path will determine the curvature of the golf ball (i.e. slice or hook). Not the other way around, as taught in the past.

Before starting an exercise program, you must consult a professional to determine your current physical state.

Functional exercises should be the start of any exercise program.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 53

NATURE

By Shane Reynolds

54 | January/february 2015

Bird watching can be a joyful experience. The sounds of birds frolicking outside your Cordillera Ranch home can be a great addition to your garden and landscape. Bird feeders are the quickest and easiest way to attract our winged friends to your yard.

Before I get into information on feeders, here is some information to get you started: A book I’d strongly suggest on the birds you may begin to see around your home once you get your feeders set up.

• Birds of the Texas Hill Country - by Mark W. Lockwood, Terry Maxwell (Foreword), Clemente Guzman (Illustrator) A Little Nature Store - 106 E Theissen, just off Main Street in Boerne; 830.249.2281 – a great little shop with lots of bird feeders and friendly information.

Guadalupe State Park – visit the park, just 3 miles east on Hwy 46, and pick up these 2 FREE publications by Texas Parks and Wildlife.

• Birds of the Edwards Plateau • Providing for Backyard Wildlife Local Birds of Central Texas – an easy foldout of bird pictures and descriptions.

Find it at the Bergheim General Store.

Bird feeders come in a dazzling variety of shapes and sizes. Many designs are based upon careful research to attract birds with spectacular efficiency. More than ever, anyone can quickly learn the basics of bird feeding and choose a feeder that will lure a wide variety of birds throughout the winter months.

CHOOSING A FEEDER There are five types of bird feeders: hopper, platform, tube, nectar, and suet.

Variations of each type number in the hundreds. Many species of birds will visit hopper and platform feeders filled with seed mixes. Tube feeders are designed for finches, but will attract other kinds of birds, especially if a bottom tray is attached. Woodpeckers are attracted to suet feeders.

BUYING A FEEDER Before buying a feeder, decide how many feeding stations you want, and where you’ll place them. A feeding station is a single feeder, or a group of feeders in one location. Be practical at first.

Check out seed prices and decide if you have the time and energy to fill several feeders weekly. When shopping for a feeder, consider the quality of its materials and construction, its ease of filling and cleaning, and how much seed it can handle. Try to imagine the feeder after a heavy rain or after strong winds. Are the seeds soaked-- Is the seed tray filled with water-- The best feeders include covers and built-in drainage systems.

WHERE TO PLACE FEEDERS The location of your feeding station is important in two respects: Birds need the cover of trees or shrubs nearby to feel safe and welcome and the feeder should be close enough to your window or porch so that you can enjoy their theatrics.

A BASIC FEEDING STATION Start with a single platform, hopper, or large tube feeder. Each accommodates large and small birds and can be hung from a tree or hoisted on a pole. Fill any of these feeders with black oil sunflower seeds and you’re certain to get visitors, usually within days. Remember to position the feeders where you can see them clearly. Provide a birdbath filled with fresh water. Keep your feeders filled with dry seeds. If jays, cowbirds, and other large birds are crowding out smaller birds, switch to a feeder that discriminates, or blocks, them, but not the smaller, more desirable birds.

Have fun exploring the many types of bird feeders on the market. Attracting birds to your yard and around your home will greatly enhance the sights and sounds found in Cordillera Ranch.

If you keep your feeders full of seed and food year round, you’ll be amazed at the number of our feathered friends that visit your home.

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WE ALL KNOW THE OLD SAYING “CLOSE ONLY COUNTS IN HORSESHOES AND HAND GRENADES.”

DON’T LET IT APPLY TO YOUR MARKETING. Logos, websites, branding, and every issue of Cordillera Ranch Living 210.507.5250 • 930 E. Blanco • Boerne, TX 78006

56 | January/february 2015

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 57

DEVELOPER

YEAR IN REVIEW 2014: LOTS OF ENERGY

by Charlie Hill

58 | January/february 2015

SPARK PLUG TO START THE YEAR Looking ahead and planning for the future is the nature of life and it’s definitely the routine of our business: planning the next project. However, it’s the time of year when we take a look back and see what all the year entailed at Cordillera Ranch and now that we stop to look back, it’s remarkable what all has occurred over these 12 months. One thing is for sure, ‘energy’ has been the key theme at Cordillera Ranch. There has been a vibrant energy at the Club with growth in new membership and lots of members enjoying the various amenities more often this year at various events. We’ve benefitted from the energy boom with the historic expansion of both the Eagle Ford Shale and Permian Basin oil and gas fields. Many new property owners and members are moving here from Houston, San Antonio, and Midland and are involved in some way in these

energy plays. You can also see the positive momentum simply driving around the community and seeing all of the homes under construction. It’s been a fun year at the ranch and it was kicked off by a great honor at the NGCOA conference that has no doubt helped affirm Cordillera’s national reputation as a premier upscale community.

We were honored to open the year by winning the NGCOA’s Course of the Year Award which recognized Cordillera’s renowned Nicklaus Signature golf course and also its contributions to the community and the game. Making the moment more memorable was that the award was given the same night that Jack Nicklaus was given NGCOA’s Award of Merit for his part in golf’s global expansion.

While the year started out hot from a real estate and membership sales standpoint (we’ll get back to that), no one

started the year hotter than Jimmy Walker with three PGA Tour wins in his first eight starts to the season. Jimmy, who moved into his new Cordillera home in the midst of this run, continued the great play through the four majors with three top ten’s and another T26. The media also took notice of Jimmy’s game with several cover magazine features and his starring role on Golf Channel’s “Playing Lessons with the Pro’s” hosted by Holly Sonders.

“Playing Lessons” was filmed on the back 9 here at Cordillera Ranch and aired on the Golf Channel late this summer.

Jimmy’s consistent golf over the past two seasons earned him a spot on the 2014 Ryder Cup team where he had a stellar debut adding 2.5 points for Team USA.

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 59

REAL ESTATE BUZZ As mentioned, 2014 was a banner year for all sales and club memberships, and while that may sound a bit boastful, it’s really more of a testament to the 1,000+ families that have put their trust in Cordillera Ranch. Cordillera is blessed to have so many great Club members and property owners because it’s this core of people that has helped this place grow through so many referrals that are brought in to the community. You can’t replace a great testimonial and we’re proud that so many people that have introduced Cordillera to their friends and family.

From a numbers standpoint, total lot sales were up 35% in 2014 to $16.6MM (total resale and developer lot sales) driven by both an increase in actual lots sold and an increase in the average sales price ($264k/lot). A total of 70 lots were sold in Cordillera Ranch (on 63 disclosed pricing) in 2014 and Cordillera Ranch Realty sold 57 of those 70 lots (73%). The increased lot sales activity was driven partly by some new releases of lots this year in three sections and a continued growth in demand for the unique lifestyle at Cordillera Ranch.

In the two newest sections that were released in 2014, Bears Ridge and the Golf Frontage Estates, over half of the lots were sold prior to completion of streets – a strong indication of demand.

Home sales activity has also been robust in 2014 with 33 sales at an average price of $852k; these numbers do not count new home starts (discussed below).

However, digging into these sales stats reveals what we’ve said for several years: that there are really two communities in Cordillera Ranch, the pre-Club community and the post-Club community. In 2014, 21 homes sold that were built prior to 2006 at an average price of $686k while 9 homes sold that were built after 2006 at an average price 81% higher at $1.24MM. Average price per square foot of the pre-2006 constructed homes was $169/sf versus $255/sf average price for the post2006 constructed homes. The following chart illustrates the distinct difference:

During the year, two of the most recent spec homes, built by Burdick and Christofilis and Authentic Custom Homes on hole #6, were both sold. There are currently almost 700 homes complete in Cordillera Ranch and 47 total on the market, representing a healthy supply of less than 8% of total inventory. Further, this inventory of available homes varies widely in price ($499k - $2.8MM), age and lot attributes.

With 255 lots sold in Cordillera in the last five years, that leaves a healthy pipeline for new home construction, which we’re seeing all over the ranch. The primary area of construction right now is in the Clubs Village, with roughly half of the 48 total homes under construction being built in this area. Take a spin around

sales “ Home activity has also

been robust in 2014 with 33 sales at an average price of $852k ”

60 | January/february 2015

Clubs Drive and you’ll see for yourself.

It’s estimated that there is currently over $50MM in new home construction activity in Cordillera Ranch, which is unquestionably more than any other community in the San Antonio area. The 2015 home construction activity looks robust as well with another 38 homes currently in ARC design review.

The increase in home starts led to the addition of two new Preferred Builders in 2014, Partners in Building and Garner Custom Homes. Both builders are going to be great long-term additions to the neighborhood; Partners in Building recently broke ground on their new spec home in Clubs Village and Garner plans to start theirs on one of the new lots on hole #9 in the spring.

Needless to say the fast pace has brought its challenges, which is why we have added three new Real Estate Sales Agents to the CR Realty sales team over the past year. Eric Metzger, Frank Leblanc and most recently Jasen Miller all join Cordillera coming from extensive real estate backgrounds in the luxury market.

Eric hit the ground running early this year and, because of his worldwide experience in luxury property marketing and sales, has really recognized the opportunity offered at Cordillera Ranch for clients and has thrived as a result. In his first year, Eric was second on the team in lot sales only to our veteran Rick Grimes who closed 22 home and lot sales totaling over$10MM in transactions in Cordillera (through 12/7/14). We are excited to have an outstanding team of professionals that have helped so many property owners here find their perfect spot.

Not only was the home construction booming in 2014, but we brought on a broad array of new lots which has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response. This summer we completed a new section of Di Lusso Villas (Phase 2), where from hole #3 you can see two new homes under construction, one complete

The Making of …. ‘Life is Better Out Here’ TV Ads You might have seen some of the recent TV ads that were shot this fall all around the ranch. The Wood Agency’s production team took some “making of” action photos during the 5-day video shoot. While it’s impossible to compress 8,700 acres of Hill Country beauty and 7 different Clubs into 30 second commercials, they did a great job of giving a glimpse into the Cordillera Ranch lifestyle. We’re sharing a few of the photos from the video shoot here. The three different TV spots can be found on our website at: www.cordilleraranch.com/discover/video-gallery/

CordilleraRanchLiving.com | 61

and one more about to start – all of which are pre-sold.

In October, we completed the first phase of Bear’s Ridge, the newest release of premier Clubs Village view lots with 20+ mile views in all directions. 12 of the 25 lots were sold prior to completion of paving which is an excellent start to what is going to be one of the finest additions

62 | January/february 2015

to the Ranch. Lastly, our most recent offering of new lots, the Golf Frontage Estates on holes #9 and 10, have had the most resounding response with 10 of the 14 lots already sold and construction of the streets starting this month and the first homes starting in this section during 2nd quarter of 2015.

CLUBS OF CORDILLERA RANCH The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch have been both a contributor to and beneficiary of this real estate activity. The Clubs vast offering of amenities is clearly a key part of the lifestyle people are looking to enjoy when they buy here, but the real estate demand has also helped drive the best year of membership sales in the

past five years. There are many new faces around the club, with a total of 70 new members joining this year, comprised of new membership sales/developer lot sales (54) and resale property transactions (16). Of those 70 new members, 52 are new golf members (Full and Limited combined) and another 18 are Ranch members. This marks the 8th consecutive year of net new membership growth at the Club since opening; a remarkable feat that is again a result of the many people that enjoy proudly sharing the Club with their friends and families. The Club has now grown to over 640 total active members and has done so without ever reducing Membership Deposit pricing.

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64 | January/february 2015

LOOKING FORWARD Much like the upgrades to the Club this year such as an entirely new fleet of 19 new cardio equipment units in the fitness center and new traditions started such as the inaugural Legacy Cup at Cordillera Ranch, plans for 2015 include a variety of new endeavors and events. One event we’re proud to be hosting in 2015 is the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America (GCSAA) National Championship (that’s right those grass guys actually

play golf too). In February, the GCSAA is having their annual conference in San Antonio, and Cordillera Ranch has been selected to host their National Championship featuring 100 superintendents with handicaps of 5 or less. We are also looking forward to delivering some new golf frontage lots; based on the strong demand for the most recent release of the Golf Frontage Estates we will be adding some more golf frontage lots along hole 11 during 2015. Additionally, we are

making some progress in designing and developing some new lodging accommodations near the club. Construction of the Springs of Cordillera Ranch is also slated to start in early 2015 with some great pent up demand for this new addition.

We are appreciative of the tremendous support of this incredible community of people and hope you have all had a memorable year and wish you a blessed 2015.

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MIKE “THE SHERIFF”

SHERIDAN RETIRES

by Charlie Hill

66 | January/february 2015

Please join us in congratulating Mike Sheridan on his retirement from Cordillera Ranch Development. As an original member of the development team at Cordillera Ranch 17 years ago, Mike has been an instrumental part of the growth and success at Cordillera Ranch.

Having worn many hats of Development Manager, Sales Manager, Sales Agent, de-facto POA Manager, Architectural Review Committee manager and many other roles, Mike’s experience and knowledge of the ranch is vast. His vision and talents in land planning the community complimented by his attention to detail reviewing new home plans have helped Cordillera become recognized as one of the highest caliber developments in not only Texas but the entire U.S. Further, his passion for Cordillera’s ongoing success is matched only by his love of the highly ranked Nicklaus Signature golf course he helped create.

On behalf of the entire Cordillera Ranch ownership and staff, we offer an enormous ‘thank you’ to Mike for his contributions to this truly unique community. Aside from his artistic vision in land planning, Mike’s steadfast approach to guarding the integrity of the community for the past 17 years has been invaluable not only to the developer but also for the 1,000+ property owners. Sometimes underappreciated by residents is the daily work he has done as protector of detailed covenants by making sure there is strict adherence to these restrictions both from a home construction standpoint and general community maintenance perspective. Upholding these core principles is one of the many ways Cordillera is set apart from other luxury home communities in the Hill Country.

While Mike is formally stepping aside from his regular day-to-day roles of managing various development and POA operations, he’ll still be contributing to Cordillera Ranch on a less intensive consulting basis. This transition will allow Mike to continue to play a role in land planning of new phases as needed and assure that his knowledge of the community and role as one of its guardians is conveyed to successors, including new POA General Manager Matt Haire. Mike will continue on a consulting basis with the POA as a member of the Architectural Review Committee while also assisting in a long-range transition of the ARC that will include additional members. So you’ll still see Mike around the office some, but he’s looking forward to a less rigid schedule, less managerial responsibility and – most importantly – relinquishing the title of Mike Sheriff!

Congratulations, Mike, on a wonderful career and long-lasting contribution to the finest community in Texas!

WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

ASK ABOUT PRIORITY AD PLACEMENT

Sara Hill, Ad Sales Director 210.332.8628 • shill@cordilleraranch.com

HOME TOUR

somewhere they could see themselves retiring. “As soon as we “It’s what I do,” designer and decorator Marcia Pratt says referring to her involvement in the architectural design of her saw this lot, I said, ‘I know exactly what to put on this lot!’”

Almost immediately, the Pratts chose designer Jim Terrian to dream home at 2320 Clubs Drive. Her husband’s career with embark on their journey toward a southern antebellum home.

Exxon Mobil has moved them around the globe twenty times, “We sat down together and we talked about their lifestyle and and Marcia is elated to finally have the southern-style home she how they really live always wanted.

Originally from in an everyday atmosphere, how their Louisiana, the Pratts’ family interacts, how most recent assignment has been in they want to entertain, what their furniJakarta, Indonesia, ture needs are, what where they’ve been their likes of décor living for the past are and the mechanthree years. Before moving to Jakarta, ics of the house.

Then we looked at the Pratts became the site and evalufriends with Nalga ated how we were and Paul Mebane going to fit all of while living in Doha,

by Kristine Duran :: Photography by Ben Weber these things on it,” Qatar. Nalga had Jim says of his process. “This site had a lot of unique characters searched high and low for the perfect place for her and Paul to in the slope of the land and it also had a lot of setbacks which retire and landed on Cordillera Ranch. “So that’s how we got were difficult to fit everything that they wanted in. Cordillera was out here and we were like, ‘oh my gosh, this is beautiful!’ But really generous in how they worked with us and trusted us in our of course, it took me like a year to learn how to say Cordillera,” vision of what we wanted to put here. They were very generous Marcia remembers. So in 2007, Nalga set the Pratts up with Tracy in allowing us to do some things that hadn’t been done before in Harris to review several lots to determine if Cordillera Ranch was

68 | January/february 2015

Cordillera.” But their efforts were delayed due to Mark’s career. Marcia explains, “Years passed, Jim left the builder he was working with and went on his own and we moved several more times. I was living in the Woodlands and Mark was rotating to Iraq and I got a package in the mail from King Bravo. It was a book; basically How to Design Your House for Dummies by Trey Garner. King Bravo said he had been working with this great kid, so Mark came back from Iraq one weekend and we started looking at it and called Jim up to say, ‘let’s fire this thing back up.’”

That’s when the Pratts made the switch to Garner Homes in 2011. They took a look back at the 2007 design they had begun and realized that they would need to make some major changes. “We were building a two-story antebellum that every Louisiana girl wants. Then I hurt my knee, and I was like, ‘I’m never going to bring any beer upstairs to the icebox on the second floor.’ So then we said okay, that’s ridiculous. It was too big and too expensive” Marcia says. So they brought the home

down from a two-story plantation home to a one and a half story southern British Colonial home. “They also wanted to have top quality of everything and this house has top quality of everything. They wanted the technology, like the geothermal heating and air conditioning systems, rainwater catchment, a lot of technology in this house that you can’t see. Mark did a whole lot of research on the modern sciences of building. We really became intrigued about all of the stuff that he brought to the table, and we started implementing some of those ideas even before we started building their house in other projects. ,” Jim says.

From Jim’s first renderings of the house, Mark and Marcia were taken. “Right off the bat, with Jim, we told him what we wanted and boom. It’s amazing,” Marcia says. “His willingness to listen to our suggestions and questions, his sense of proportion and perception, and his quickly drawn 3-D hand sketched drawings really helped us in making decisions,” Mark says in agreement. Jim acknowledges that

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70 | January/february 2015

Marcia’s expertise is what really made it so simple. “With someone like Marcia, she’s got fantastic experiences with design, so it was easy for her to communicate back and forth with me. Sometimes clients don’t know how to communicate that as well, so it takes more attempts.”

Making sure they would get all that they desired and needed in a home within their

financial parameters was made possible by Garner Custom Homes’ reversal approach.

“We do a reversal of what is normally the process. You [usually] design everything then put out the price. With Garner, they take the initial concept and they price it initially, then work backwards to make the design fit the price. It gave us the opportunity to design the house more specifically

to what they wanted,” Jim explains. Since Jim has started designing on his own, he has worked with several builders, but is especially impressed with Garner Homes.

Marcia describes her positive recollection of working with Garner Homes, “They’re great! They’re young and they’re on the ball. My husband wanted a tin roof; I never wanted a tin roof. It’s just not my look. So Trey Garner said, ‘why aren’t you going with that new concrete slate roof?’ He said about two or three houses up, another house has one. So I went by and I said, ‘yes!’ And when it rains on it, it turns a little darker. I love it.”

Aside from the roof, Marcia’s favorite part of her home is her fireplace, which she turns on during chilly mornings. Marcia wanted large windows to allow plenty of natural lighting into the kitchen, which left no room for outlets, so now she is able to pull hidden outlets out of the counter at her convenience. Also a part of the Pratts’ kitchen is Marcia’s grandfather’s influence.

The clear story above incorporates cypress beams from his farm that she grew up visiting. Their trim carpenter placed them so that, from below, Marcia can still see her great aunt Edna’s name etched into one of them. To add even more character, they incorporated bricks that Marcia had

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collected from her hometown of Natchitoches, Louisiana. The majority of the home is handicap accessible for both elderly family members and for themselves later on in life.

The outside of the Pratts’ home was done, in large part, by John Hackett at Dynamic Environments. “He had a really integral involvement in the outdoor involvement that we have with the New Orleans style rear courtyard. He and I worked together to create the look, then he did all the finishes and actually built all of the walls. Then of course, he was involved in all of the front landscaping and rainwater catchment design as well,” says Jim. The Pratts’ were involved in every nuance of their home. They worked closely with Jim on the design to ensure that every need and desire of theirs was met, and Jim made every attempt to make those ideas a reality. “I was impressed with the way the Architectural Review Committee did a really good job with working with the Pratts to take care of the hardships that this lot had. Also, with the styling of the home. Most of the houses are Hill Country, Mediterranean, or Tuscan and we wanted to go in a different direction. We were able to convince them with the quality of the materials and the finishes that it was going to be fitting because it was just going to be a quality house. They are protecting the homeowners out here and I’ve come to appreciate the job that they do because it’s a hard job,” Jim says.

With Mark still residing full-time in Jakarta, Marcia continues to travel back and forth.” I kind of repatriated several months ago, but I still go back every couple

72 | January/february 2015

months. It’s great when you’re over there, but just getting there isn’t. If something happened to my parents in Louisiana, it’s 34 hours to get from my door to their door. That’s a long way.” Mark will permanently join Marcia in their new home at Cordillera Ranch when he retires in August. Marcia continues to decorate and is currently gearing up to help with Shindig and admits that traveling is not high on the agenda at this moment.

“Boerne’s great, you can do everything on two streets! I finally got the house I wanted; I’m going to stay in my house.”

Garner Homes recently won GSABA’s 2014 Summit Award for Best Design for a Custom Home for the Pratts’ home, with Marcia Pratt recognized for Best Décor.

SPECS 4 bedroom 4 1/2 bath 3-car garage 4360 heated/cooled square feet Classic merged South Louisiana plantation/British West Indies/Texas Hill Country architecture New Orleans courtyard with antique brick columns/stucco walls Eclectic Louisiana heirloom/Middle Eastern/North African/Far Eastern dĂŠcor Ultra high efficiency Ground Source Heat Pump HVAC system (+30 SEER) with standalone dehumidification and fresh air ventilation 40,000 gallon rainwater collection system

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The #1 resource for Cordillera Ranch Real Estate Agents: Charles Mueller

Rick Grimes

Eric Metzger

cmueller@cordilleraranch.com

rgrimes@cordilleraranch.com

emetzger@cordilleraranch.com

Realty Frank LeBlanc

Jasen Miller

fleblanc@cordilleraranch.com

jmiller@cordilleraranch.com

Director of Real Estate Sales: Barry Denton bdenton@cordilleraranch.com

69 Augusta

1

$1,299,000

4,372 Square Feet

MLS# 997966

This Robert Thornton home is a perfect example of Contemporary Hill Country style. The spacious house sits on 1.09 acres overlooking the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and gorgeous views of the Twin Sisters horizon.

PR IC

E

CH

A

N

G E

· 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 2-car garage with port-cochere and golf cart storage and hobby sink · Stained concrete and reclaimed longleaf pine floors, with gas fireplace and wood trusses in the open great room · Kitchen is equipped with stainless steel designer appliances, walk-in pantry, custom longleaf pine cabinetry, and polished concrete and formed stainless countertops · Private study overlooks the golf course and is lined with longleaf pine slats for photo and art arrangements · Master suite’s tall windows welcome natural light and a panoramic view of Hill Country sights · Lux master bath includes walk-in shower, concrete vanity tops, spa bath, and fully accessorized closet · Detached backyard cabana is housed with wet bar, outdoor kitchen, half bath, and adjacent stone fire pit • Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

116 Valley Knoll $529,000

2

3,024 Square Feet

MLS# 1085874

Located at the end of a cul-de-sac with stunning Hill Country and Guadalupe River Valley views, this single-story home, with a native stone exterior, is on a 3.5 acre flat lot with ample space, privacy, large mature oaks and views. Home has been recently upgraded with new interior paint, hardwood floors/carpet, stainless steel kitchen appliances (Bosch 5-top gas cooktop) and new light fixtures. An all new outdoor environment includes new landscaping, large Rainbow Systems playscape and patio-mounted flat screen TV. • 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, game room/office, 2 car garage • New hardwood floors and carpet recently installed • All new Bosch stainless steel kitchen appliances/ Bosch 5-top gas stainless stove cooktop • Entire new front and back yard landscaping with new irrigation system; completely re-sodded with Zoysia • Long Hill Country and Guadalupe River Valley views off of the rear of the home • Outdoor entertainment center with flat screen connection • Back lawn is fenced with gates and an invisible fence for dogs that covers about 2 acres of the property • Great buy for family wanting move-in ready home with a view on a spacious lot with privacy • Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

www.CordilleraRanch.com | 830.336.3570

209 Swede Creek $1,499,900

3

6,036 Square Feet

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

• • • • • • • • • • •

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

25 AUGUSTA $2,395,000

4

7,299 Square Feet

MLS# 638461

This Stadler Custom Home was featured as the “WOAI Concept Home.” The ultimate entertainment home on more than 1.5 acres overlooking the 15th tee box on the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course.

• • • • •

• • • • •

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

445 Augusta $2,500,000

5

5,465 Square Feet

MLS# 1038461

Experience the feel of the Tuscan sun as you take in Burdick & Christofilis’ new Model Home on the 17th Fairway of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. 3 Bedroom, 4 Bath home has a fabulous game room and bar off of the large covered patio.

Enormous, vaulted kitchen and great room give way to 10’ tall sliding pocket doors that open to patio. Master suite includes decorative ceiling with timbers, lavish master bath with a hammered copper slipper tub. Adjacent to master bath is a flex room that has multiple use options. Circular courtyard completes the feel on the front of the home. · 2 + 1 garages · Fully equipped outdoor kitchen · Custom infinity pool and spa · Stone and wood flooring in all gathering areas · Countless Burdick & Christofilis Signature features · Convenient to Cordillera Ranch Clubhouse · Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

www.CordilleraRanch.com | 830.336.3570

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12 Di lusso Drive $999,000

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2,896 Square Feet

MLS # 1042649

Tuscany meets Texas in this fabulous, gated hillside enclave. Panoramic Hill Country views from outdoor living areas fuse with transitional contemporary elegance. The finest selection of materials and finishes embody this Di Lusso luxurious experience.

Beautifully appointed throughout, this three bedroom villa includes an endless array of features that must be viewed to be appreciated. Closest proximity to the amenities of The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch clubhouse.

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· 4 Bedrooms, 3½ baths · 337 sq. ft. Casita with full bath and coffee bar · Solid mahogany doors, windows and beamed ceilings. · Finest selection of materials including travertine and wood floors, granite counters and limestone fireplace. · Outdoor kitchen and nearby fire pit for enjoying starry nights. · Finest appliances and functional kitchen serve multiple dining areas · Panoramic views of the Guadalupe River Valley and Twin Sisters · Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

907 Cordillera Trace $1,175,000

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5,136 Square Feet

MLS# 1003673

Mediterranean home by Burdick & Christofilis sitting on 4.60 acres with views for miles of the Hill Country. Multiple outdoor living areas open to the surrounding countryside.

Picturesque pool, spa, waterfall and outdoor kitchen, cabana, and fireplace create a perfect relaxing backyard retreat.

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5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3 car garage Open, spacious floor plan with three living areas Tile granite countertops Stainless steel appliances in the kitchen with gas oven range Luxurious master suite includes a sitting room, his and her walk-in closets and a large bathroom with dual separate vanities and Whirlpool tub Adjoining 5 acre lots on each side also available

60 oakland hills $1,735,000

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5,136 Square Feet

MLS# 1089030

Now Available!

5136 Square feet of brilliantly designed elegant living on Hole #7 of the Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. Currently under construction and awaiting your preferences of interior element selections.

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4 Bedroom/4.5 Bath/3.5 Car Garage Designed by Gustavo Arredondo Secluded living in Clubs Village Fabulous Oak Trees Panoramic Views Master Full Golf Membership Available

www.CordilleraRanch.com | 830.336.3570

44 Oakland Hills $1,349,000

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5,280 Square Feet

MLS# 1019540

Tuscan-style home by Stadler Custom Homes with a bright, open floor plan that overlooks the fifth fairway of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

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4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3 car garage Tall windows, travertine and wood floors, custom window treatments, lux ceiling treatments Chef’s kitchen with premium stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, built-in coffee maker, eat-at island and additional breakfast bar Master suite and its sitting area have great views of hole #5 and the Hill Country beyond Master spa bath with his and her vanities, coffee bar with wine fridge, oversized closet, built-in dressers, granite counter tops, and travertine throughout Outdoor living area, including fireplace, kitchen with gas grill and fridge, and dual rock water features looks out over breathtaking Hill Country views and hole #5 of the golf course Master Full Golf Membership available for purchase

1838 Clubs Drive $1,142,000

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4,267 Square Feet

MLS# 1089152

Partners in Building is beginning construction on their first luxury, custom home in Cordillera Ranch. It is a single story Hill Country jewel with beautiful natural stone and luxury lifestyle features throughout. Contact John Moon at 210-978-2424 for more information.

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

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

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122 Greystone POINT $1,599,500

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7,053 Square Feet

MLS# 1067747

Burdick & Christofilis custom features and the finest finishes complement spacious indoor and outdoor living. Exceptional, oversized covered Lanai and balcony overlook pool, native landscaping and Hill Country views beyond. Refreshing pool enveloped by multiple leisure areas and natural surroundings.

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4 bedroom, 4.5 bath, 3 car garage 3.41 acres with end of cul-de-sac solitiude Hardwood and natural stone flooring in main living areas Open kitchen design featuring island prep area and Wolf, Bosch and Sub Zero appliances All bedrooms have en suite baths Oversized laundry room Exercise room convertible to fifth bedroom Open floor plan with oversized living areas Premium electronics featuring Lutron lighting system, upgraded fixtures, whole home audio, motorized shades and surround sound/media projection.

Warm, neutral colors and custom window coverings throughout Swimming pool with adjoining hot tub

www.CordilleraRanch.com | 830.336.3570

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Cordillera Ranch Realty Homes for Sale 1 - 69 Augusta 2 - 116 Valley Knoll 3 - 209 Swede Creek 4 - 25 Augusta 5 - 445 Augusta 6 - 12 Di Lusso Drive 7 - 907 Cordillera Trace 8 - 60 Oakland Hills 9 - 44 Oakland Hills 10 - 1838 Clubs Drive 11 - 122 Greystone Point

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