Volume 1, Issue 5
•
July/August 2009
BergheiM Volunteer Fire Dept. Community Coming Together in True Texas Fashion
this is living. pure and simple.
Over 30,000 sq. ft. of Unique Furniture, Rugs, Lighting & Accessories for Home, Ranch and Office 1410 N. Loop 1604 West San Antonio, TX 78248 • (210) 495-5768 (at Blanco across from The Vineyards)
2
|
(210) 495-5768
www.hillcountryinteriors.com July / August 2009
Western, Hill Country & Old World Styles Complimentary Design Services!
VIVA
ROUGE Fine Gifts, Stationary & Home Decor
MacKenzie-Childs Victoria and Richard Emprise Jon Hart Designs Crane & Co. Fine Stationary Sid Dickens
Gift & Bridal Registry 422 S. Main Street Boerne, Texas
830.249.9787
WWW.VIVA-ROUGE.COM
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
3
welcome
T
his is an exciting issue of Cordillera Ranch Living for me personally. The feature story about Mike and Paula Marsh is a truly interesting story and testament to all that this community is about. I have not only developed a great respect for Mike Marsh and his company during the past 5 years, while working with them as we’ve built the club and clubhouse, but we’ve also become friends and I couldn’t be happier to have such great people as a part of this community. In addition, the Fisher family opened up their gorgeous home to us and many of you will certainly enjoy the new service being offered to the Cordillera Ranch community by FlighTime Business Jets of San Antonio. As most of you know, we really try to emphasize that Cordillera Ranch is not just a golf community. There is so much more here than just a fantastic golf course. When you read through this issue you will notice there are more stories about the golf course in this issue than in previous issues. As we move into the prime golf season and are coming off some incredible golf course recognition by the Dallas Morning News, I just felt it was appropriate for this issue to have a little more emphasis about the golf course. Our Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course is very special and it affects all of us who are a part of this community, whether you play golf or not. Many of you have given us positive feedback on how much you enjoy the Cordillera Ranch Living magazine. It is our mission to bring new ideas to each issue so that it always gives you something new that you are interested in hearing about. The best ideas for future issues will come from those of you who live and socialize in Cordillera Ranch. I encourage you to call or email me with any ideas you think will interest you and your fellow residents, members and property owners. Please don’t hesitate to send your feedback and ideas. Enjoy,
Publishers: Schooley Media Ventures, LLC/Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation Schooley Media Ventures, LLC Benjamin D. Schooley – CEO/President
[email protected] Jeanna Goodrich – Associate Publisher
[email protected] Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation Chris Hill – Vice President
[email protected]
Creative Director: Laura Kaples
Operations Manager: Natalie Meadlin
Assistant Operations Manager: Amber Crawford
Contact: Chris Hill Vice President Cordillera Ranch
[email protected]
Cordillera Ranch Living Magazine 113 South Plant, Suite F Boerne, TX 78006 210-507-5250
[email protected]
Cordillera Ranch Living is published bi-monthly through a joint venture between Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. No reproduction in any form is authorized without the consent of both Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC. Cordillera Ranch Living is a registered trademark of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation. 203 Shadywood, Boerne, TX 78006. Printed in the USA. All rights reserved 2008. All rights reserved. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions. Manuscripts, photographs, and other submitted material can be acknowledged or returned if accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The content contained does not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation, Schooley Media Ventures, LLC, or Cordillera Ranch residents. Cordillera Ranch Development Corporation and Schooley Media Ventures, LLC assumes no liability for misinformation, omissions, or errors.
4
|
July / August 2009
9\e\Ôk]ifdk_\
Efnf]]\i`e^j\im`Z\j\oZclj`m\cp Xkdpgi`mXk\#kiXehl`cjXcfe i`^_kfeDX`eJki\\k`e9f\ie\
Integrity Salon
.(+J%DX`eJki\\k
[`i\ZkcpY\_`e[LiYXeKlihlf`j\
,'F]]:fcfiXe[:lkn`k_Pfli=`ijkM`j`k
=fi=i\\G_fe\:fejlckXk`fe fi9ffbXe8ggf`ekd\ek:Xcc
/*(%0(.%-,.,
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
5
K_\i\ Xi\ dXep Y\e\Ôkj kf fne`e^ I\Xc <jkXk\# Yfk_ :fdd\iZ`Xc Xe[ =Xid IXeZ_% N`k_ k_\ \m\i Z_Xe^`e^ dXib\kj#k_\b\pkf\eafp`e^k_fj\Y\e\Ôkj`jkfjkXpX[m`j\[% 8kGXikcfnGifg\ik`\j@em\jkd\ekj#n\gifm`[\mXcl\kf fliZc`\ekjYpX[m`j`e^k_\dn`k_lgkf[Xk\dXib\kbefnc\[^\ Xe[ \o\Zlk`e^ Zfdgi\_\ej`m\ dXib\k`e^ jkiXk\^`\j fe k_\`i Y\_Xc]%8Yfm\Xcc#n\[f`kn`k__fe\jkpXe[`ek\^i`kp% :Xccljkf[Xpjfk_XkpflZXejkXpX[m`j\[%
:FDD
FLKJK8E;@E>I8E:?=FIJ8C<#;@CC
8\i`Xcg_fkfYp8[feX`Xm`Xk`fe%Zfd
?NP+-<8JK?
I\XjfejKf9lp =XYlcfljCfZXk`fe$Yp?\i]]IXeZ_#JXd:_Xdg`fe?`^_JZ_ffc# :`Yfcf:i\\b
I\XjfejKf9lp CfZXk`feÆn`k_`eXe_fli]ifdJXe8ekfe`f ;`m\ij`kpÆ>i\Xkd`okli\f]Yilj_Zflekipn`k_jfd\ `dgifm\[gXjkli\ @eZfd\Fggfikle`k`\jÆIXeZ__Xjk_\XY`c`kpkf^\e\iXk\ jlYjkXek`Xc`eZfd\ @dgifm\d\ekjÆEld\iflj]leZk`feXc`dgifm\d\ekj ?lek`e^ÆKi\d\e[fljXdflekf]^Xd\1[\\i#hlX`c#[fm\#klib\p Xe[dfi\ NXk\iÆCfkjf]nXk\i 8ZZ\jjÆ
=FIDFI<@E=FID8K@FE8E;GI@:@E>:8CC1/*'%/(-%,/'' 6
|
July / August 2009
-)+E%D8@EJK%JL@K<('(s9F
24
Home Tour
Open Hearts and an Open Home
Contents
34
10: Developer’s Corner
The Cordillera Ranch Architectural Review Committee
16: Get Away
Texas Lakes...Fun In The Sun!
20: Club News
Fishing In and Around Cordillera Ranch
34: Feature
The Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department – Community Coming Together in True Texas Fashion
42: Dining
50
Summer is Just Peachy!
46: Shopping
Unique Finds in Gruene
50: Builder Feature
Excellence and Elegance – The Burdick and Christophilis Experience
60: Staff Feature Rod Boyle 66: Calendar of Events 69: In the News 8
|
July / August 2009
Extraordinary Environments
Landscape / Lighting / Pools / Paving
www.landdesigntx.com
830.816.6670
Come visit our newly completed studio/gallery Call for appointment. CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
9
developers corner
The Cordillera Ranch
Architectural Review Committee by Chris Hill
A
s it looks like the real estate market and overall economy is starting to stabilize a bit and find the bottom of the recession, many more people are starting to think about moving forward with building their dream home. For the past 12 to 18 months, many of the families who already own property in Cordillera Ranch had put their building plans on hold to “wait and see” how this played out. It seems that over the most recent few months, some confidence has started to creep back into the minds of buyers and potential home builders. We have seen an increase in new customer traffic, sales activity and new construction commitments within Cordillera Ranch during that time. The combination of increased confidence in the overall economy, decreased home construction costs and the fact that all Cordillera Ranch property owners are starting to see the impact the magnificent new clubhouse will have on the lifestyle in Cordillera Ranch, has me expecting to see this trend of more home building continue. Because of this I feel like this is a good time to make sure everyone understands the role of the Cordillera Ranch Architectural Review Committee (ARC) and why it is such an important component to protecting values with the community. If you have already built a home here or in any other master planned community you are likely familiar with the process and the role of the ARC. However, with more than half the lots still not built on in Cordillera Ranch, there will be plenty of you who go through the process sometime in the future. When you do, it’s important to remember one thing, the ARC is here to help protect your investment in this community. For those building the home of their dreams, the ARC can seem like an obstacle on the road to paradise. However, what many property owners may not realize is that the architectural guidelines in this community are an asset to them. In fact, with an understanding of the process and a few key strategies, the ARC can serve as a resource during the challenging process of building a custom home, rather than a hindrance to the project.
All about the Cordillera Ranch ARC
The Cordillera Ranch ARC is managed by Mike Sheridan and Valerie Shaw. Mike has been a part of the development team at Cordillera Ranch since the beginning of the project in 1996 and not only manages the ARC but has been responsible for the land planning of the entire community and worked closely with the Nicklaus Design team to oversee the design and construction of our beautiful golf course. Valerie has been the ARC administrator
10
|
July / August 2009
since 2005 and as the number of homes being built has increased dramatically she has been able to keep up with the increased workload and efficiently manage the process. The ARC works very hard to consistently review and approve all home plans and other improvements proposed in the community. Cordillera Ranch, like most communities, subdivisions and neighborhoods that have property owners’ or home owners’ associations, has architectural guidelines (also known as covenants, conditions and restrictions) that must be followed, and an architectural review committee to enforce those guidelines. In addition to Mike and Valerie, we are fortunate to have Boyce Tucker, a Cordillera Ranch resident and AIA architect, on the committee involved in the review of each home plan submitted. The role of the ARC is especially important in communities that feature custom homes, wherein the property owner is allowed the freedom to design a home from the ground up, rather than choosing from a selection of floor plans offered within the community. The purpose of the ARC is to ensure the integrity of the community itself. Property owners purchase land in this community because the character and quality of the community
appeals to them. Maintaining the integrity of the community not only extends the vision of the developer and makes residents happy, it also keeps property values within the community high. Long after owners have gained the approval of the ARC and completed their new home, the architectural guidelines of the community continue to serve them by protecting their investment. In addition to the obvious ways in which covenants, conditions and restrictions protect the interests of community residents, guidelines also function in subtler ways to maintain the unique features of the community and protect the environment. For example, Cordillera Ranch has restrictions on the type and amount of outdoor lighting that is allowed in order to preserve the view of the night sky. Even with approximately 500 homes built today, as you drive through the community or just sit on your porch overlooking it, you can really get a sense of why this is so important. In addition, Cordillera Ranch has covenants indicating that a certain percentage of native vegetation must be preserved, and that plants used in landscaping must be drought tolerant and/ or that irrigation must be limited. This provides for responsible water use among residents, helps to safeguard the natural surroundings and preserves the “ranch” feel of the community.
Tips for a smooth architectural review process
Before you even start the design process there are several things you can do to make the entire experience as smooth as possible. When approached in an organized and thoughtful manner, the architectural review process can be an important asset to property owners. A few simple strategies can help ensure that the review process is both painless and beneficial for everyone involved.
Draft a schedule:
The ARC meets weekly (currently every Tuesday). Owners should be prepared to follow the schedule of the ARC with the understanding that the stages of the review process often follow the conception, design and construction of the home. Identifying appropriately spaced deadlines that coincide with the ARC’s review and approval process for each stage will help keep the plan on track.
Choose the team wisely:
The choice of professionals that will design and build a home can often mean the difference between the seamless integration of an owner’s vision with ARC guidelines, and a frustrating struggle between the two parties. Builders and architects with experience designing homes in Cordillera Ranch will have a better understanding of the challenges that may be presented by the climate, terrain, vegetation and other natural features of the property. In addition, architects and builders who have experience working with the ARC will be better prepared for the processes and paperwork associated with them.
Utilize the ARC:
Members of the ARC have extensive experience in the processes and challenges of planning and building homes in the community, and they can provide a wealth of knowledge and advice to property owners. It is beneficial to solicit the ARC’s input during the planning stages and consider and discuss their suggestions. Treat the ARC as a member of the planning team, rather than an opponent. This will help ensure a “win-win” situation for both parties. Managing the ARC is not an easy job or process. It is often
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
11
developers corner
Planning for the steps in the process: First Meeting – Site Analysis Meeting This meeting is to initiate the review and approval process prior to preparing any drawings other than sketches for the proposed improvements. This informal review is to offer guidance to the owner, architect and builder (if chosen) prior to the initiation of preliminary design and to fully understand what the property has to offer in relationship to the topography, sun orientation, vegetation, adjacent land uses and property set backs. Second Meeting – Preliminary Design Meeting At this time we will review all elements of the design, the architecture, the site plan, materials, colors and other proposed and future improvements. During this meeting, pre-construction requirements are discussed and the responsibilities of property owner and builder are covered. Third Meeting – Final Review and Approval to Construct by ARC Before final plan approval is granted, a stake-out of all improvements, installation of construction veg fence, payment of all fees, possible TCEQ requirements and any plan revisions must be approved in writing. You do not need to attend the Final Review meeting.
12
|
July / August 2009
an emotional time for the owner because they are committing an incredible amount of time and money to build the home of their dreams. At Cordillera Ranch, the role of the ARC is to be fair and consistent in our implementation of the design guidelines and covenants, conditions and restrictions. As you drive through the community today it more obvious than ever that the intention of our restrictions and the consistency of the ARC has had an impact on this community that sets it apart from any other.
Fine Furnishings Hand-Selected for Exquisite Beauty and Quality Construction Complimentary Design Assistance 322 South Main St. Boerne, Texas 78006 830-249-0081
www .C alamity J anes T rading C o . com
Change Your Body. Change Your Life. Boerne Personal Fitness is a private personal training studio located in Boerne, Texas. What makes a personal fitness studio different from other workout facilities? s You set times to come in to work each week. Your trainer will be there to devote time to YOU and your specific training needs. s You won’t have people looking at you while you work out! s Your personal trainer will be there with you from day 1 to listen to your fitness goals, and most importantly, be there with you EVERY WORKOUT. s Your personal trainer will provide diet and health counseling throughout your training. Who is right for this sort of fitness studio? Anyone! Boerne Personal Fitness’ trainers will formulate a training routine for housewives and working moms, for those who are recovering from injury or illness, or for athletes who are trying to get an edge on the competition. We train people from 8 to 88!
s s s s s s s
14
|
One on one personal training Sports specific personal training 2-3 on one personal training Small group training Sports group training Size and strength training Volleyball performance training
s s s s s s
Speed and agility Target toning Circuit training Yoga Tai chi Massage
1595 South Main St. | Suite 103 | Boerne, TX 78006 ph: 830-331-8455 | alt: 210-859-2441 | boernepersonalfitness.com July / August 2009
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
15
Get away
Texas Lakes...
Fun in the Sun!
by Jeanna Goodrich
Medina Lake Medina Lake offers a water-filled sanctuary for swimmers, anglers, and divers alike. Nestled inside an intricate network of trees, hills, and limestone bluffs, Medina Lake’s 4,000+ acres are a haven for those wishing to escape to the beauty and serenity of the outdoors. Only 23 miles south of Bandera—the perfect distance for a family day trip—public access to the lake is available at Plum Creek Cove in Bandera County Park, where a boat ramp and parking are available. Once out on the clear, fresh waters, park your boat against a lush area of shoreline for a picnic or for swimming fun; or, head away from the shore for some of the best fishing in the area, as the lake is known best among fishermen for its large yellow catfish. The lake is also an attraction for local SCUBA divers, as the clear, cool waters and rocky landscape create coves and caverns for aquatic wildlife. Though no overnight camping sites are available for public use at the lake, small cabins and lake homes available to rent are scattered along the shoreline. Pack the cooler for a quiet afternoon on Medina Lake, or pack the SUV for an entire weekend. Boat ramp fees are $5, or $10 if you are launching jet skis. For a map and more information, visit www.banderacounty.org/services/MedinaLakePark.htm.
canyon Lake At Canyon Lake, there really is something for everyone. Whether seeking solace at a secluded campsite, or renting a party boat with a huge group of friends, the over-8,000-acre lake offers 80 miles of recreational and sporting shoreline for all to enjoy. From sailing lessons to primitive camping, the multiple public and private facilities at Canyon Lake offer opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking, camping, hiking, hunting, even horseback riding and mountain biking—truly all of the outdoor “ing”s you could possibly imagine. Two swim beaches, 22 boat ramps, and 38-pound striped bass make Canyon Lake a water recreation paradise. The Army Corps of Engineers at Canyon Lake even offers numerous volunteer programs to help keep the lake clean and assist with the lake environment’s safety and stewardship. Campsite fees range from $12 to $54, and it only takes $3 to put a boat in the water. And if you really like the lake, you may purchase an annual, day-use pass for $30. For a map and more information, visit http://www.canyonlakechamber.com.
Lake travis Of course, Lake Travis is a great place for the usual lake activities: fishing, boating, swimming, picnicking. But as the place for the ultimate Austin-area lake recreation, Lake Travis offers water activities for even the most daring of water enthusiasts: kayak rentals and races, parasailing adventures, cycling competitions, windsurfing regattas, and SCUBA lessons are the perfect complements to an extremely active outdoor lifestyle. Lake Travis even has a waterpark, ensuring fun for family members of all ages, and a vineyard, ensuring fun for those of legal drinking age. If you’re less amphibious, the Oasis, among other delicious dining establishments, boasts breathtaking views from the cliffs of the lake—you haven’t seen a sunset until you’ve seen it from the upper deck of the Oasis. With rental homes and condos, campsites, marina facilities, public-access boat ramps, beaches, and parks all around the shoreline, a weekend on the water at Lake Travis is guaranteed fun and adventure. For more information, visit http://www.laketravis.com.
lake lbj Love boating and watersports? Lake LBJ is for you. Over 20 miles long, the lake is ideal for sailing, boating, and watersports of all kinds, and is never too crowded. A peaceful retreat, Lake LBJ offers a variety of log cabins, lakeside condos, or vacation rental homes for the perfect weekend-long getaway. It also has a number of RV Parks for those who do not want to rent a cabin or a condo. Hitch on your jet skis or strap your kayak to the hood; Lake LBJ is a beautifully scenic and serene vacation destination. Launching your boat or your jet ski is free from the Cottonwood ramp off FM 2147, or costs a small fee—which benefits the Lions Club—at the Llano River arm. Many overnight rentals also offer their own boat ramps, boat rentals, or other water sport rentals. Visit www.highlandlakes.com for more information on Lake LBJ and the other lakes in the Highland Lake chain.
/`QVWbSQbc`S EXCEPTIONAL 2SaWU\ OUTSTANDING @SZObW]\aVW^aAS`dWQS
MAGNIFICENT
This isn’t just any construction project, this is your home and there’s a lot on the line. The guidance and discernment must be exceptional, and the details exacting. The relationships and trust must be genuine and true. At Robert S. Thornton, LP – Great Homes we form a team – starting with the client through the architect/designer, supervisors, interior designers, longstanding subcontractors and vendors. And if the team and relationships are right the process and product will be unsurpassed.
Robert S. Thornton, a founding member of the Preferred Builder Group has completed over 60 homes in Cordillera Ranch, each home capturing the personal style of the owner and adapted to its one-of-a-kind Hill Country environment. From design through occupancy Robert S. Thornton, LP – Great Homes promises intense supervision and a constant display of faith based integrity. The long-term satisfaction of current and former clients is their motivation and reward.
18
|
ROBERT S. THORNTON, LP – GREAT HOMES 507 EAST BLANCO, BOERNE TEXAS 78006 830 249 3646 | WWW.RSTHORNTON.COM
July / August 2009
light by design full pg
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
19
club news
Fishing in and Around Cordillera Ranch by Shane Reynolds
T
here are great fishing opportunities in the Hill Country and on the Central Texas Gulf Coast. Here at Cordillera Ranch, we have the free flowing upper Guadalupe River, where the Texas State fish, the Guadalupe bass can be found. The upper Guadalupe also has black bass, catfish, carp and many types of sunfish. No matter what the flow of the river is, there are some great fishing holes, and an angler can usually head to River Park in Cordillera Ranch and catch bass and perch without too much effort. Whether you enjoy fly casting or conventional fishing, there are many opportunities around Cordillera Ranch. Within Cordillera Ranch, we have Swede Creek and the small lake in the park. The lake has a very healthy population of bass, sunfish and catfish. Swede Creek Lake is catch and release, so please use barbless hooks and treat the fish with care and you release them. For kids, using live bait, both worms and minnows, is probably the most fun and productive way of fishing the small lake. Casting a fly rod is also another great way to land bass in the lake. The crown jewel of the Hill Country is the lower Guadalupe River, the southernmost freshwater trout fishery in the United States. The lower Guad, as locals refer to it, is just below the dam of Canyon Lake. Canyon Lake was created by the Army Corps of Engineers to control the seasonal flooding that occurs on the Guadalupe River and impounded in 1964. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) determined that the cold water discharges from the dam would displace the native warm water species naturally occurring in the river. Being the stewards of the public resources, they worked to develop a plan for the introduction of cold water species to utilize this new habitat, and thus, the trout fishery was established. The lower Guad is stocked with trout each winter by the TPWD and a very active Guadalupe Chapter of Trout Unlimited. We have a few good fishing lakes within an hours drive, with Canyon Lake to the east, and Medina Lake to the west. Canyon Lake, which is northwest of New Braunfels and 8300 acres,
20
|
July / August 2009
is the first reservoir on the Guadalupe River where anglers may fish for striped bass, black bass, white bass, Guadalupe Bass and catfish. Medina Lake, which is northeast of San Antonio and 5400 acres, holds hybrid striped bass, black bass, white bass, flathead catfish, blue catfish and channel catfish. A short drive an hour south of San Antonio is one of the best lakes in South Texas, Choke Canyon Reservoir. Choke Canyon is a big lake, consisting of 25,670 surface acres and is fed by the Frio River. Its superb underwater topography produces some record size black bass. Other species that are found in Choke Canyon are crappie, bluegill, red eared sunfish, blue catfish, channel catfish, and alligator gar. There is also a healthy population of alligator in Choke Canyon, which adds to the adventure of kayak fishing. The last fishing area I’ll mention, which is a favorite for many of our Cordillera Ranch club members, is Port Aransas and the central Gulf Coast. This area of the coast is a superb red drum and spotted seatrout fishery, and offers a beautiful setting with all types of coastal wildlife. Site casting in the clear water of the Texas Gulf Coast for redfish is a great adventure. As the Outfitter for The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, I’m more than happy to answer questions about fishing, arrange trips with local and distant guides for fishing trips, or simply take your kids fishing at Swede Creek Lake. We offer Learn to Fish clinics, Fly Casting seminars, guided excursions, and I have a network of freshwater and saltwater guides I work with, so don’t hesitate to contact me with any request. Shane Reynolds Outdoor Recreation Director The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch 210-616-6051,
[email protected]
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
21
Stadler Custom Homes Concept Home in Cordillera Ranch
Our customers are our number one priority.
(830) 249-1010
www.sagecapitalmortgage.com 128 W. Theissen St. • Boerne, TX 78006
Lance Welch
[email protected]
22
License #67661
|
Natalie Hill
[email protected]
July / August 2009
Let the professionals at Sage Capital Mortgage help you realize your dream of homeownership with great rates and personalized service. We specialize in Refinancing, Residential, Lot, Home Equity, FHA/VA, Commercial, Investment, Farm and Ranch Loans.
K\Z_efcf^pJfclk`fej]fiPfli?fd\
E
og\i`\eZ\k_\Zfem\e`\eZ\# Zljkfdjfclk`fejXe[jXm`e^j k_XkZfd\]ifdnfib`e^[`i\Zkcp n`k_fe\ZfdgXepkf`ek\^iXk\ Xe[dXeX^\k\Z_efcf^pjfclk`fej n`k_`epfli_fd\$pflËcccfm\ k_\Jk\ic`e^\og\i`\eZ\%
C\kljkXb\pfli\m\ekkf k_\e\okc\m\cn`k_k_\ dX^e`ÔZ\ek\og\i`\eZ\f] Xeflk[ffidfm`\%
C\kfli[\j`^ek\XdZi\Xk\Xle`hl\ jpjk\d]fipfli_fd\Æ`eZcl[`e^ c`^_k`e^[\j`^e#c`^_k`e^XlkfdXk`fe Xe[Zfekifc#Xe[cXe[jZXg\c`^_k`e^%
` e ] f 7 J k \ i c ` e ^ ? f d \ K\ Z _ % Z f d s / * ' % , * .% * +( ' s n n n% J k \ i c ` e ^ ? f d \ K\ Z _ % Z| f23d CordilleraRanchLiving.com
home tour
Open Hearts and anOpen Home
“W
e could live anywhere, but we chose Cordillera — and we love it.” When Todd and Carol Jarvis decided to pack up and leave Houston, with a one-year old daughter and another one on the way, Cordillera Ranch was the last place they expected to end up. “All that was necessary for my work was access to an airport, because I travelled globally every week,” Todd said. “I came home one day and said to Carol, ‘We can live anywhere. We could go to London, Singapore, Perth, Sydney… anywhere we want!’ I was thinking ‘culture,’ but Carol was thinking something else.”
24
|
July / August 2009
by Jeanna Goodrich
“I was thinking ‘family,’” Carol responded. “I was raised in San Antonio, and I knew that, with two children, we would need a network of family to help raise and nurture them. Sure enough, Todd was driving to the San Antonio airport—on his way to Brazil—and saw an advertisement for Cordillera. He called me and said I should look at it. My sister and I came out here, kids in tow, and—though at first I didn’t want to like it, as soon as we drove in I just knew. This was a place for us, and we fell in love with it.” According to Carol, the decision to build a home at Cordillera Ranch was, “well, like having another child.” Todd added, “When we first started building, it was so exciting, but there were times when we were frustrated, exhausted. In the end, of course, it
the Jarvises settled on four acres on Crested Butte. “It was the last plot Gary showed us,” Todd remembered, “and after spending ten minutes here, a turkey came out of the wooded creek area, and then ten minutes later a deer did, too. I was convinced Gary had a pen of wildlife that he released just in time for us to walk by.” Carol laughed, “It’s true—the only wildlife we saw in Houston were mosquitoes.” Todd added, “We’re borrowing the wildlife’s space by living here. It’s a part of the neighborhood and a part of our home. A turkey even walked across our slab while it was still wet, and you can still see his footprints.” Their home, built by Burdick & Christofilis, contours to the shape of the hill it sits upon. Todd insisted that the perfect placement of the house was devised brilliantly by Damon Christofilis, who suggested situating the home to take in two different and magnificent Hill Country views, one from the comfort of the living room and the other from the office balcony on the second floor. So, what inspired the magnificent design of the Jarvis’s custom home? A window. One window, seen in The Woodlands at the home of Jeff Maggert, PGA golfer, inspired a Castilian and Spanish design theme to be featured throughout the Jarvis’s house, both interior and exterior, and six of these windows can be seen on the front of the house. Todd and Carol worked with architect Ken Woolley to incorporate all of the details they wanted present in their home. “They say there are a million decisions that have to be made, down to the hinges on the door,” Todd said. “I can remember Art [Burdick] saying that if it’s a decision that you’re really toying with, in the grand scheme you’re probably not going to really remember what the other
was worth it—our home became the perfect addition to our family.” The Jarvis family emphasized what a great family they have found in the Cordillera neighborhood as well. “Cordillera has taught us that the further away you live from your neighbors, the closer you are,” Todd attested. “In Houston, we lived fifteen yards from our neighbors, but we didn’t even really know them. Here, some of our best friends are as many as a couple of miles away.” Carol added, “It was something we were worried about at first. The last thing we wanted to do was raise our kids miles away from other kids in a place that wasn’t going to be social or have people around, but when we moved here, we got pretty heavily involved and met so many people that have been there for us.” After touring many different plots of land with Gary Peterson,
home tour
options were,” Carol said. “But at the time it feels like such a huge decision—even choosing the exterior color of the paint was agonizing… but when all is said and done, the swallows nesting on our patio walls don’t really care what color it is!” Walking through the front door, large, half-circle arches lead a pathway into the living room, through a large window, and out to the view. From architecture classes at Texas A&M, Todd discovered that he preferred the half-circle arch, not the quartercircle of most modern architecture. As a result, these grand arches span over doorways, windows and bookshelves, opening the rooms of the house into large, inviting spaces. And all throughout the house, “inviting” is the key word: Kellee Hagar, their interior decorator, said that comfort was the goal. “We wanted to create a home that was nice and beautiful, but relaxed and livable,” Hagar said. “It is a reflection of their hearts and personalities, and their warmth: you walk in and immediately feel welcomed and comfortable.” From big, comfortable couches and chairs, to the breakfast nook where the family shares their meals together, to the den and gameroom that Lauren and Lindsey have claimed as their creativity haven, the Jarvises home is truly a home. Even more than that, their home now serves partly as an office for their business, Sterling Home Technologies, Inc. “The construction of this house planted the seed to start the business,” Todd explained. “During our first years here, I was leaving the country [for my previous job] virtually every Monday and coming back on Friday—I’ve been to more countries than I have states,” he laughed. “Settling down in Cordillera, I made some new business goals: wear shorts to work and have the option of putting the girls to bed. Our strategy was: God first, family second, employees and customers third, and the rest will follow.” While adapting to the changes that Cordillera presented them, the Jarvises decided to create a home that would, in turn, adapt to them. Todd described their “adaptive home” with an analogy to a car. “When you open your car doors, the interior lights come on. It anticipates your need to see within the car. Why not have a house do the same thing?” he posed. So the Jarvises did just that: with Todd’s background in Industrial Automa-
26
|
July / August 2009
tion & Control projects with Honeywell, they created their own adaptive home. With fourteen thermostats controlling individually almost every room in the house, motion and heat sensors to turn lights and air on and off, and driveway sensors to anticipate the entrance into the garage and kitchen, the Jarvis’s home really does live around them. As Todd explained, “Even with our lighting system outside in the front—it turns on at sunset and turns off at sun rise, and we’ve never had to change the bulbs. When we pull in the driveway at night, the house knows we’re here, so it turns on the lights in the garage and in the kitchen. Why turn a light switch on? If the house knows you’re there, why not have it turn on the light for you?” And though the Jarvises are well-equipped for a relaxing and fun evening in the house, “Being outside is so much fun,” their oldest daughter, Lauren, asserted. When the stunning Hill Country view from the giant living room window isn’t “outside” enough, Lauren, her younger sister Lindsey, and Todd head outside to the creek at the edge of their wooded backyard. Over and over again, the Jarvises attested that “we couldn’t have ever done this in Houston”—“this” encompassing everything from their outdoor experiences to the close-knit relationships they’ve formed over seven years. The Jarvises began Outdoor Movies of Texas at Cordillera, showing family movies on a big screen on the golf course on warm, summer nights. Carol was also involved in hosting the first Cordillera Shindig, and still sees these social gatherings as opportunities to grow closer to their friends and neighbors, new and old. And they couldn’t be happier with their decision. “We do work for people outside of this community,” Todd said, “but the people that live out here are different. They’re more down to earth, normal, God-fearing, country-loving people. When we moved to boerne, this became home. Until we moved here, I was always from McAllen, and now this is where we’re from. I live here, I’ll work anywhere in the world, but this is where I live.”
Home Checklist: 5,000 sq. ft. 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, 4.5 car approx 4 acres Ken Woolley – Architect Greens and Blooms – Landscaping Kellee Hagar – Interior Design Sterling Home Technologies – Media Burdick & Christofilis – Builders FO Foundation – Fo Foundation Lifetouch Stucco – Texture Stower’s – Furniture Gary Peterson – Sales Representative
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
27
SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE... AUTOMATE YOUR ENVIRONMENT We specialize in the design and installation of the finest and easiest to use entertainment systems in San Antonio, South Texas, and the Hill Country. Over the last 9 years, we have developed an exceptional team totally focused on customer service. Our clients include NBA World Champions, U.S. Senators, World Series MVP’s, and Grammy Award winners. Just imagine what we can do for you.
|
HOME THEATER
|
WHOLE HOUSE MUSIC
|
LIGHTING CONTROL
|
AUTOMATION
16161 COLLEGE OAK | SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78249 | 210 404 9838 | WWW.DOMINIONTX.COM
Kellee Hagar
Interior Accessorizing
creative touches • unique designs personal styles • holiday decor Office: 210.492.9608 Cell: 210.414.0637 15014 Grayoak Forest San Antonio, Texas 78248
|
BILL ZANER
PAINTINGS OF TEXAS AND THE WEST “Afternoon Shower” oil 24 x 36”
painted with love...
B ILL Z ANER P AINTS T EXAS . COM
830-249-3700
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
29
plumbing heating
CB Service Company
Our Commitment is Your Comfort 210.764.2004
air
Debbie Ebarb
Branch Manager / Escrow Officer 210-490-1313
[email protected]
Stability
•
Brian Baize
Sales Representative Clubs Of Cordillera Ranch Member 210-601-3073
[email protected]
Financial Strength
•
Experience
Fidelity National Title 18618 Tuscany Stone, Ste. 240 • San Antonio, TX 78258 Office: 210-490-1313 Fax: 210-490-1312
www.fidelitysa.com
Cordillera Ranch and GVTC Hill Country living with the most advanced communications technology available
ultra-speed Internet digital cable TV security monitoring unlimited phone
Thanks to GVTC’s Fiber-to-the-Home technology, Cordillera Ranch is connected to the fastest, most advanced communications solution offering the highest bandwidth possible. Residents can enjoy the fastest Internet speeds available, hundreds of digital cable television channels including HDTV and DVR, clear and reliable telephone with unlimited local and long distance plans, along with 24-hour security monitoring. This breakthrough fiber-optic technology is designed to accommodate future growth to deliver up to 100Mbps of broadband speed or more. So relax and enjoy your place in the Texas Hill Country — and take comfort in knowing GVTC keeps you connected to the rest of the world. 1(800)-367-4882
W W W. G V T C . C O M
Services described will be provided by either Guadalupe Valley Telephone Cooperative, Inc., (“Cooperative”) d/b/a GVTC or its wholly owned subsidiary, Guadalupe Valley Communications Systems LP d/b/a GVTC.
Proud to Have Built Over 100 Custom Pools in Cordillera Ranch
210-493-POOL 21105 IH-10 West San Antonio, Texas 78257 • Remodeling Department • Full Service, Maintenance, and Supply Departments • Winner of 13 International Design Awards • Aqua100 National Award of Excellence Hall of Fame • Top 50 US Pool Company • Winner of 189 APSP Design Awards • 39 Summit Awards • Uncompromised Quality
Exclusive “Designs of Distinction”
| 33 w w w. R i v e r O a k s P o o l CordilleraRanchLiving.com s.com
feature
Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department:
A
Community Coming Together in True Texas Fashion by Ben Schooley
s the pioneers of the 1800s traveled across and settled the Hill Country, there were countless times that friends, neighbors, and the community as a whole needed to band together to bring services to the area. Whether it was helping a friend dig a well, or working together to erect a new schoolhouse, those men and women knew that they must “take the bull by the horns” and get the job done. That same spirit still lives on in the Hill Country, and is evidenced by the brand new Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department. Once a sleepy town with little need for emergency services, the Bergheim (and Cordillera Ranch) area has quickly blossomed into one of the fastest growing areas in Texas. With a population that was quickly expanding, residents in the Bergheim area recognized the need for a new Fire Department, and, in true Texas fashion, took it upon themselves to accomplish the goal.
34
|
July / August 2009
Steve Koronczok was the first resident that was inspired to begin moving the project forward. “Historically, fires had been serviced by Boerne. But the whole eastern end of the area was serviced by Kendalia and Boerne. This is one of the fastest growing areas, so obviously the need was huge. In fact, not too long ago we had a close call. Two years ago, a lot in Cordillera caught on fire. A worker threw a cigarette out, and burned almost 4 acres. Somebody saw it, called the guard house, and it just so happened that one of the Cordillera Ranch irrigation trucks was full of water, ran over to the lot, and put it out. We’ve had a lot of close calls, and we have avoided some disastrous situations. We’ve been so lucky to not have a big grass fire during this year’s drought. We would be in big trouble.” Having recognized the need, Koronczok and fellow Cordillera Ranch residents Scott Shaheen and JW Pieper began the preliminary property search. “We had talked about having Cordillera giving us a piece of property for this. We looked at the area by the entrance gate, but it really wasn’t enough room. We knew there was a need for the area, and Gene Miertschin, the county commissioner, was really a huge help for us. As we had the first thoughts, he was a huge help to us as we began to piece this together.” Using Miertschin’s expertise and assistance, the group was determined to find the perfect site, and found it almost directly across the street from the Cordillera Ranch gates. “Before we could even begin
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
35
feature
“...It’s been such a community effort through each step in the timeline.” organizing, we needed to identify the piece of property” Koronczok continues. “This piece of land was abandoned from the old Highway 46. We thought the State had the deed, but it turned out that Kendall County owned it, and had it not been for the Commissioner’s court and the County Judge, Eddie Vogt, it probably would not have happened.” Armed with the site, the group, along with the assistance of many of the communities that would be serviced, began to look at the vision for the facility. Pieper explains, “The vision was to build something big enough to service us immediately, but be capable of handling the growth, and was also created with the intent of using it as a community center as well.” Soliciting input from many of the residents in the region, the group also needed to solidify the design and organize construction. Koronczok says, “We didn’t have to look far. Scott (Shaheen of Hooker Construction) comes from a small community and understands the VFD, and knew what it meant for the community. He’s done so much work, and without him, none of the visions would have been realized. From all the money donated, I promise you it’s a fraction of the amount of time and money that Scott has volunteered. For example, a good friend of
36
|
July / August 2009
his contributed the foundation.” Shaheen adds, “There’s a number of local contractors and vendors that donated their services and made all this happen. The electrical, air, and plumbing were all donated. Other large service donations include the concrete foundation and paving, water well, masonry, roofing, sheetrock and carpet. The Kendall County Engineering Department graded it, and have returned multiple times. The county has been such a tremendous asset of contributions and assistance. The help from all facets of the community has really been amazing.” Koronczok adds, “If it wasn’t for J.W. Pieper’s countless hours as acting Treasurer and his attention to detail made all the pieces come together.” Along with the construction needs, the group was in search of architectural design assistance. Cordillera Ranch clubhouse designer and resident Mike Marsh of MAI Architects took it from there. Shaheen explains, “I’ve known Mike for a lot of years, and have done a lot of work with him. When I was doing a project with him in the Georgetown area, I told him that Cordillera Ranch was getting close to doing the club. I referred Mike to the developer here, he saw the project was for real, knew that his wife wanted to return, so sure enough, they did. So at the same time, he opened the Boerne location for his offices. When he did that, I told him I just volunteered him to design the fire station. And, of course, he did a tremendous job. Area resident Allen Lindskog of CEC Engineering also volunteered to donate the civil engineering services for this project.” Equipped with the land, the designs, and the contractor, the group knew that it would still be an expensive undertaking. While much of the work and materials had been donated, it would still take a sizeable investment for the project to be fully completed. Pieper says, “The most sizeable donation we received was from the 2006 Cordillera Ranch Shindig, which was $100,000. We also had a Bergheim community VFD garage sale at the Kendall County Fairgrounds that netted $11,000. Then we had a guy come in and say that he would match the funds. It’s been such a community effort through each step in the timeline.” At the groundbreaking for the facility, the Waring VFD donated a fire truck. The State of Texas sent a Texas Flag that had flown over the capital. Residents from
all of the communities called their friends and sought those that could assist with the construction, both in terms of services, as well as monetarily. An anonymous donor that lives on FM3351 donated $20,000. The commitment of “community” is completely evident, and the founders of the group, all Cordillera Ranch residents, couldn’t be happier. In addition, there was substantial effort put toward keeping the facility as environmentally friendly as possible. Pieper explains, “We were able to install a rainwater catchment system capable of filling the fire tracks with rain water. This was purchased exclusively through grants from the Lende Learning Center and the LCRA. We are so excited about it!” Koronczok says, “Cordillera Ranch residents had a lot to do with this undertaking. The help that we received from the Shindig, to all of the meetings we had at resident’s homes…I credit them so much for helping. That being said, it’s so important to me that people understand what a community project this was. There is no way that this would have all come together without the help of the residents of North Barcroft, Bergheim, Waterstone, Kendall Woods, Sage Oaks, Dresden Woods, Pleasant Valley, Coveney Ranch, Silver Hills, and of course Cordillera Ranch. This has just been a wonderful example of people joining forces for a greater good. And really, isn’t that why we all live here? The area is so beautiful, but the real motivation is to be surrounded by such wonderful people.”
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
37
texas investment properties ... are they part of your long term strategy?
time
isn’t it you put tangible assets to work for Sotheby’s INTERNATIONAL REALTY
Kathy Miner 210-823-8952
[email protected]
you?
Kathy Budde 210-274-4136
[email protected]
Income Producing Properties | Raw Land | Hospitality
Kathy Budde has been in the real estate industry for over 10 years and thoroughly enjoys helping people in all facets of the real estate community. Before sales, she did property management for over 15 years in the multi-family arena working with a company in Oakland, California. Her goal is to help people get what they want and focus on their needs as well as customer service.
Kathy Miner has over 28 years of sales management and marketing experience, along with expertise in commercial, luxury and development property in Texas. She has a strong background in water rights, raw land entitlement, design, contract negotiations and strategic marketing. Kathy’s strongest skill is matching clients with properties; whether it is acreage or an investment property or improved commercial sites. She is very involved in the community of Boerne and supports many local charities and events.
38
|
July / August 2009
714 south main Boerne, Texas next to st. peters catholic church
SHOP URBAN Closed Mondays
tue-sat 10 to 6 sun 12 to 5 www.urbanturquoise.com 830.331.9830
william rast trina turk spree girl alternative AG modern amusement CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
39
Artist Performances
Specializing in fine instruments, accessories, and instruction.
Guitar Workshops
Offering group or private lessons for all ages Guitar | Flute | Harp | Violin Piano | Mandolin | and More
109 Oak Park Dr. | Boerne, Texas 78006
830-331-9840
Call today to reserve your lesson space.
www.heartshomeacoustics.com
When it comes to long-term care,
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME A good thing about Long-Term Care Insurance from State Farm®* is that you have your choice of care options – including in your home. You’ll also be helping to protect your life savings from the cost of extended care. To learn more about it, just talk to your neighborhood State Farm agent.
LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR
Ginny Thompson, Agent 217 East Bandera Road Boerne, TX 78006 Bus: 830-249-9505 www.ginnythompson.com
STATE FARM IS THERE.®
Providing Insurance and Financial Services statefarm.com® • *State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company •Home Office: Bloomington, Illinois See your local State Farm Agent for details on coverage, costs, restrictions and renewability. LTCI2002-08 P02460 04/05
40
|
July / August 2009
325 S. MAIN STREET, BOERNE, TX 78006
830.249.7393
WWW .G REEN B ULL J EWELRY . COM
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
41
dining
Summer Is Just Peachy!
By Lee Kneale
A
s we head into the summer months here in the Hill Country its time to start thinking about some summer foods. What is better than a back yard BBQ with Peach Cobbler for dessert? The Texas Hill Country grows some of the best peaches in the country! And Fredericksburg Peaches are actually world famous. Fredericksburg Peaches, also known as Stonewall Peaches are grown on soils with lots of minerals and micronutrients. This makes the flavors of the peaches more complex. Also the altitude and variation in day to night temperatures in the Hill Country help make the sweet flavors more intense. How ever with a late freeze this past April, most of the Texas Hill Country peach crops were destroyed so Hill Country Peaches will be limited this season. But with the right recipe any peach will be fine for peach cobbler! Not only does peach cobbler taste great, but it’s very simple to make.
Cobbler Filling:
4 Cups Fresh Peeled Peaches (blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds to help remove skins) ¾ Cup Brown Sugar 1 Teaspoon Cinnamon 1 Teaspoon Vanilla 1 Tablespoon Flour
Cobbler Crust:
1 Cup Flour 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda 3 Tablespoons Brown Sugar 4 Table Spoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small cubes) 2/3 Cup Butter Milk Additional 1 Table Spoon of Brown Sugar for Topping
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Generously butter a 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish. Place the sliced peaches in the dish and sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and flour. Mix gently and spread evenly again. Bake for 10 minutes. Meanwhile combine all dry ingredients for cobbler crust in a bowl. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers, to make the texture like coarse crumbs. Add buttermilk and stir to form a soft dough. Remove fruit from oven and drop rounded spoonfuls of dough on top. Sprinkle with last tablespoon of brown sugar and return to oven. Bake until fruit is bubbly and crust topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes. Serve warm topped with Blue Bell Vanilla Ice Cream and a Glass of Peach Sangria.
Another great way to enjoy Texas Hill Country Peaches would be in a nice cool glass of sangria blanco. Sangria was first made in Spain in the early 1600s. Typically it was made with red wine mixed with brandy and available fruits. Southern Spain started to make it with peaches and nectarines, which they call Zurra. There is also Sangria Blanco, which is made with white wine instead of red wine. Sangria became a huge hit and spread throughout Europe, each country using their local wines and fruits. In 1964, at the World Fair, Sangria was introduced to the United States. Since then it has become a popular punch made from a variety of wines and fruit juices. The Cabana Grill offers Red Sangria made with a Spanish Tempranillo wine. (Tempranillo comes from the Spanish word temprano, which means early, and refers to the grapes tendency to ripen earlier than other grape varieties)
Ingredients for Sangria Blanco
1 750 ml Bottle of White Wine (A Sauvignon Blanc is a great choice) - you could also substitute a light red wine if you’re a red wine drinker 3 oz Brandy 2 oz Triple Sec (Orange flavored liqueur) 1 Cup Orange Juice 1 Cup Pineapple Juice 2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water & sugar, boil water and add sugar) 2 Peaches Pureed (Blanch peaches, remove the skin & pit, and blend in a blender) 4 Peaches (skin on) Sliced Mix all ingredients in a pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours. Serve over ice.
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
43
Ranch at the Rim
Marks First-Year Anniversary
C
in The Rim shopping center 18007 IH-10 West San Antonio, Texas
www.ranchattherim.com 210-319-3001
reated in honor of the venerable manufacturer’s 125th anniversary in 2008, 125 pair of these $12,500 Lucchese Anniversary Boots will be made before the pattern is retired... “Fewer than 40 retailers across the country were lucky enough to sell a pair or even two of these boots last year. A handful of very fortunate stores sold four, five, even six pairs. One retailer — only one — sold an astonishing nine pairs of the Lucchese Anniversary Boots in 2008. That retailer was Benjamin Peña of Ranch at the Rim in San Antonio, Texas. “When asked about his singular accomplishment, Peña was quick to deflect any praise and give credit where he believes credit is due; first, to his wife and store co-owner, Selina Peña, then to his staff, and finally, most importantly, to God. “It was a special moment for a special boot and I was just blessed to have the opportunity to be involved,” replies Peña simply. “Fred King, marketing director at Lucchese, is more effusive in his appraisal of Peña’s achievement. ‘Mr. Peña has a great talent for serving people. They recognize that he’s a genuine guy who really knows what he’s talking about and who truly wants to assist his customers.’... “Today, Ranch at the Rim customers will find a Texas-sized collection of Western wear to suit their needs, from traditional to trendy... “Thanks to the success Ranch at the Rim had with the Lucchese boots, Benjamin and Selina Peña have earned their place in the history books.” –from Western & English Today by Garol Gustafson
cuts Colors styles Styles Cuts
Nails
tanning Tanning
Hydrotherapy
1 FM 3351 Ste. 140, Bergheim (830) 229-5214 www.laceandlassosalon.com With over 34 years of experience behind the chair, Iris has spent numerous hours perfecting her skills in the art of hairdressing. Having trained with familiar names in hair including Matrix, Vidal Sassoon, Paul Mitchell, and recently graduating from the Tony & Guy Academy in Dallas, Iris is anxious to bring her skills and knowledge to the Bergheim, Boerne, and Bulverde area and to show her clients how to make an appearance.
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
45
s d n i F e u q i in Gruene Un
shopping
Cow Purse with Cross $55 Grandmother Moon’s Magical Emporium
Wagon Wheel Bench $180 Ornamental Iron Works
46
|
July / August 2009
Lone Star Rope Table Lamp $130 Lone Star
Red Dress $56 Pookie Janes
PA Tole Tray $75 Gruene Antique Company
Yellow Boots $98 Gruene Antique Company
Metal Measuring Spoons $19.95 Dancing Bear
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
47
THE
Art OF CONCRETE DESIGN.
Decorative concrete flooring and precast concrete counters, sinks, tiles, firebowls, and fireplaces | | 39390 W. IH10 Suite C Boerne, Texas 78006 Showroom Available by Appointment 830.981.2210 | RiverbedConcrete.com
RIVERBED CONCRETE
STEWARTRANCHES.COM We have many more ranches available across the state on our website, StewartRanches.com
HUNTING RANCHES Atascosa Co. 2,353 AC Zavala Co. 960 AC
Cody Stewart, Broker
RECREATIONAL RANCHES Real Co. 1,100 AC Comal Co. 165 AC
OFFICE: (210) 451-7681 CELL: (210) 317-7288 48
LIVE WATER RANCHES Kinny Co. 2, 448 AC Edwards Co. 936 AC
|
July / August 2009
Garza Masonry Stone, Inc. Quarrier & Dealer of Natural Limestone, Sandstone, Hydrasplit, Sawcut, and Dimensional Stone
8299 S.W. Loop 410 (exit Ray Ellison) | San Antonio, TX 78242 | Phone: 210.623.5443 | Fax: 210.623.2317 101 N. IH10 Acess Rd. (exit #537) | Boerne, TX 78006 | Phone: 830.249.4821 | Fax: 830.816.3141
Ranchers Tree Service Formerly named Lone Star Tree Service Co.
C: 210.416.5005 |
[email protected] TRIMMING | CLEARING | PRUNING | REMOVAL
• Lot clearing • Land and cedar clearing • Brush and debris haul off • Tree Trimming, thinning and pruning • Canopy lifting
• Ball moss removal • Tree removal, take down and haul off • Stump grinding • Consulting and insurance claims • Oak Wilt management
ch, a Ran r e l l i t ord At C may star k u oa yo your t. g n i trimm on July 1s r trees us a call fo n! Give formatio in more
THOMAS P. NORTHINGTON
| www.rancherstreeservice.com CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
49
builder feature
Excellence and Elegance:
A
the Burdick and Christofilis Experience
t different points in the conversation, both of them said the same words: “Everybody needs a house.” Damon Christofilis and Art Burdick, premier homebuilders in Cordillera Ranch, build a lot more than just houses. Works of art nestled on carefully selected plots of land, Burdick & Christofilis create architectural masterpieces, custom designed to fit each and every homeowner’s specific needs. Their home building and construction is more than just a slab of concrete and some 2x4s—it’s a journey, a personal and personable service with the homeowners. “We used to be competitors,” Burdick began the conversation. But both Burdick’s and Christofilis’s different backgrounds in the building and construction industries brought them together to be a dynamic and driven pair. A self-described “Air Force brat,” Christofilis eventually called Austin “home,” where he attended high school and graduated and went on to attend the University of Texas. “I started a construction job to make money to try to stay in school [at UT]. My passion for it grew while I was out of school for two years. But before I knew it, I found myself in College Station pursuing a degree in Construction Management,” Christofilis recalled. “I was brainwashed into being an Aggie—before then, I was a Longhorn at heart.”
50
|
July / August 2009
by Jeanna Goodrich
Art Burdick, on the other hand, came to the University of Texas from his home near Chicago. He graduated with a degree in Economics, but found himself fascinated with the building industry. Although his interest was sparked in Austin, Burdick accepted a job offer in 1971 in San Antonio; he later became President and a partner in the company. “I started my career in production housing, but discovered that I wasn’t able to form personal relationships with the homeowners,” Burdick said. “We mass-produced a good product, but there was no creativity, no original or elaborate design.” Burdick decided it was time for him to begin his own process of home building, forming Burdick Custom Homes in 1989. Enter Damon Christofilis, who, after working in construction fabrication and then with Perry Homes in Houston and San Antonio, was pining to enter the custom home niche. “With production, you have to wear a lot of different hats, in land procurement, marketing, floorplans” Christofilis noted, “but I was ready to start learning more, to start exploring more of my passion.” Burdick approached Christofilis about forming a partnership “because of his personal character and terrific builder reputation,” Burdick said. “At the time,” Christofilis said,
“I was aspiring to bring my work to the level of Burdick Custom Homes. But if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, right?” he added with a laugh. “Really though,” Christofilis continued, “it was flattering to be given the opportunity to work with Art, who, with his stellar reputation and track record, was an amazing mentor.” So, the two have set out to create some of Cordillera’s most creative and remarkable homes. “The home-building process revolves around three things,” Burdick said. “It satisfies a basic need; it is a great source of happiness; and it is a great investment. I can’t really think of any other product that does all that.” But far from the basics, Burdick & Christofilis create works of amazing architectural art. “Damon is the best person I have seen at placing a home on a lot to maximize views, capture breezes and mitigate construction costs,” Burdick said. “But It’s not just about building—it’s far from just that,” Christofilis added. “It’s about service; it’s about creating personal relationships with the sub-contractors and the homeowners. We—” here Christofilis gives credit and the “key to success” to his righthand man, Jason—“start with the lot consultation and consult with the client to not only discover what they want in a house, but how they want to live. We want to give our homeowners the most honest, straight-forward information we can, because in turn it empowers families with the facts to decide what they want and what they need. And we don’t stop when the house is finished. Being happy with the house for years after its completion is an enduring legacy of the Burdick and Christofilis experience.” “We see our homeowners on the golf course and have dinner in their homes,” Burdick added. A high level of satisfaction comes from knowing that their builder is beside them the whole way, even a considerable number of years down the road.” Burdick and Christofilis have built over 70 homes at Cordillera Ranch, including Christofilis’s own. “Six years ago, after
I’d started building in Cordillera, my wife and my daughter gave me the ‘green light’ to move out here,” Christofilis said. “Sherry, my wife, has also been amiable with living out here in our Model Home that has to be show-ready at a moment’s notice. She has been instrumental in our success and is a huge part of our company.” “People have commented that I must be crazy to live where all of my work is,” Christofilis then admitted, “but I just see it as a big plus. Homeowners want the confidence that we have their backs, and our continuous presence out here means that our reaction time to any issues or concerns is off the charts.” “The logistics of the situation are only natural,” Burdick added. “Instead of chasing jobs all over South Texas, Burdick & Christofilis does its business close to home. Building a home, you discover that the quality of the service makes people happy. We want to make, and keep, people happy. Damon and Jason are fantastic at accomplishing this!” “People ask me, ‘What’s your warranty?’” Christofilis replied, “and I say, ‘I live here!’” With such outstanding appreciation for personal homeowner relationships, it’s no wonder why Burdick Custom Homes was one of the finalists for the 2009 San Antonio Ethics in Business Award given annually by the Ecumenical Center for Religion and Health, in partnership with the UTSA College of Business. “We were the first and only builder to ever have been nominated for the Ethics Award,” Burdick said, a remarkable milestone in the product and process of their business. Christofilis concluded, “It all comes down to the challenge of taking how a homeowner wants to live, taking the land God gave us to work with, and melding the two together to create a custom home that the owners love.”
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
51
Indoor vs Outdoor? You Can Have Both.
Enjoy the comfort of heated or air conditioned space as required, but spend the glorious temperate days outdoors at the Ranch, all in the same room. Our INDOOR/OUTDOOR ROOM enables you to have elegant upholstered furniture, beautiful area rugs and spectacular artwork in a controlled and protected environment. You choose when the room is heated or air conditioned and when it is a magnificent outdoor covered patio. Sliding doors unobtrusively disappear into a wall cavity, while electronic screens can be lowered at the touch of a button to keep out insects and critters. TV, sound system and appliances will perform better and last longer when they are protected from the elements. (Screens and electronics provided by Sterling Home Technologies, owned by Cordillera resident and satisfied Burdick & Christofilis homeowner, Todd Jarvis) Enjoy the INDOOR/OUTDOOR ROOM every day of the year. Bring your pool into the home or take your living area into the yard the choice is yours.
Homes Shown by Appointment Cordillera Ranch | 830 229 5176
www.burdickhomes.com
Integrity, trust, experience – and good old Texas know-how. It takes special qualities to market Texas real estate – but then Texas real estate is pretty special. Texas offers some of the richest land in the world (which is perhaps why European investment in Texas exceeds all United States investment in China and Japan put together, according to John Bruton, European Union ambassador to the United States). Texas land has long been recognized for its outstanding investment potential and, since 1995, Texas ranch property has nearly tripled* in value. But buying real estate of any kind needs the expertise and guidance of dedicated professionals who know the marketplace – and the people. Phyllis Browning Company has a proven track record as one of the most reputable and successful independent real estate companies in San Antonio and South Texas. We’ve been helping buyers from all over the world make smart decisions about Texas real estate for 20 years. Whether you are buying or selling, looking for hunting property, a luxury estate or a weekend escape – or you just want a qualified market evaluation of your property – contact Phyllis Browning Company Premier Farm & Ranch for the service and expertise you’ll need to make the right choice. Visit our website at www.premierfarmandranch.com where you will find the best of the best in South Texas. And a lot of good old Texas know-how! Phyllis Browning Company Premier Farm & Ranch specialists, left to right: George “Timo” Hixon, Paula Coates, Philip C. “Cebe” Musgrave, Jr., George M. “Mitch” West, Lisa Ruhnke, Luke Rogers, Todd Avery, John Austin and Charles A. Beever, III * Texas Rural Land Market Summary
Premier Farm Ranch R E A L
6061 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas 78209
210-805-3616
Toll Free: 800-860-0699
&
E S T A T E
www.premierfarmandranch.com
las finezas - camp verde general store
54
|
July / August 2009
smv ad
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
55
Enjoy our new 62-room, 21-suite facility with many amenities including:
h ot e l & s u i t e s si x f l ags west • boern e, tex as
56
|
July / August 2009
830.249.6800
• Gift Shop • Pool • Jacuzzi (four in-room & one outside) • 27” Color TV • Coffee maker • 24-hour beverages • Dataports • Iron/boards • Express checkin/out • Voicemail • Valet service • Two phones • Speaker phones
• Business desk & chair • Complimentary Quick Start Breakfast • Free parking • Microwaves • Hair dryers • Mini-refrigerators • Board room • Meeting room • Bus parking • Satellite • Jetport high-speed Internet connections
3 5 0 0 0 I H - 1 0 W est • B oer n e , T e x as 7 8 0 0 6
:\eklip)(Ilgc\Gifg\ik`\j Ilgc\Gifg\ik`\j /..%)(K
Jflk_K\oXjIXeZ_\j%Zfd
.'(J%DX`eJk% 9f\ie\#KO./''-
(('(+*@?*. Gc\XjXekfe#KO./'-+
C`m\NXk\iGifg\ik`\j#IXeZ_\j# I\j`[\ek`Xc:fdd\i`ZXcGifg\ik`\j
]\Xkli\[gifg\ik`\j 8,615 ACRES EDWARDS CO.
C`m\nXk\i#jgi`e^j#Zi\\bj#+d`c\ji`m\i Yfkkfd#^i\Xk\c\mXk`fe#n`cc[`m`[\ ))(,XZ-+''XZ)-#.'-#,''
215 ACRES BEE COUNTY
957 ACRES LLANO COUNTY
)#-''"&$]kCcXefI`m\i]ifekX^\#_`^_]\eZ\[n`k_ kifg_pn_`k\kX`c\ofk`Z_\i[%
600 ACRES DIMMIT COUNTY
Fecp -, d`c\j jflk_ f] [fnekfne JXe 8ekfe`f% >i\Xk _lek`e^# dXa\jk`Z fXb ki\\j Zfm\i k_\ clj_ ?`^_]\eZ\[#kifg_p[\\i#ZXY`e#+n\ccj ZfXjkXc ^iXjj gXjkli\j# g`g\ ZXkkc\ g\ej# dlck`gc\ [\\ig\ej#Yc`e[j]\\[\ij ]\eZ\[Xe[Zifjj]\eZ\[gXjkli\j#)gfe[j#_flj\ (#+0.#''' Xe[YXie%*#,''g\iXZi\#DXb\F]]\i
80 ACRES BEE COUNTY
892 ACRES LASALLE COUNTY
403 ACRES ATASCOSA COUNTY
>i\Xkgifg\ikpcfZXk\[.'d`c\jjflk_f][fnekfne JXe8ekfe`f%Nfe[\i]lc*&)ifZb_fd\n`k_cXi^\ Zfm\i\[]ifekXe[YXZbgfiZ_n`k_]XekXjk`Zm`\njf] ,jkfZbkXebj#cfn]\eZ\[#j\e[\ifj# k_\ jflk_ KO _`cc Zflekip% ?`^_]\eZ\[# fXbj# ^i\Xk Y`^e\`^_Yfij#[\\i#_f^j#hlX`c jflk_KOYilj_#gfe[jZXkk\i\[n`k_fXbj#k_fljXe[j )#(0,g\iXZi\#`em\jkd\ek f] gif[lZ`e^ Fc`m\ Ki\\j# nXk\i n\ccj# g`g\ ZXkkc\ g\ejXe[dlZ_dfi\%DXb\F]]\i
320 ACRES BANDERA COUNTY
( _i EN f] JXe 8ekfe`f e\Xi D\[`eX Ko% K_`j ^fi^\flj_`ccj`[\_fd\Zfej`jkjf],&+&*ifZb_fd\ fm\icffb`e^XeXdXq`e^jgi`e^]\[cXb\8dXq`e^_`cc Zflekipm`\nj]fid`c\j%>i\Xkkfgf^iXg_p#dXa\jk`Z fXbj#*gfe[j#(n\cc#^i\Xk_lek`e^%DXb\F]]\i
143 ACRES MEDINA COUNTY
Ifl^_cp(%),d`c\j]ifd=D+.(n`k_cfkjf]gXm\[ ]ifekX^\%PXeZ\pnXk\ijlggcpc`e\fegifg\ikpXe[ gifg\ikp`jZlii\ekcp8^
CordilleraRanchLiving.com | nnn%Jflk_K\oXjIXeZ_\j%Zfd
57
Uâ|Äw|Çz A A A WÜxtÅá Stadler Custom Homes has dedicated itself to creating each client’s dream home. The mission of the company has always been to provide clients with a positive, enjoyable, and rewarding homebuilding experience. The company’s growing success is derived from the execution of this original mission. As a result, Stadler Custom Homes has achieved this goal over and over, resulting in many satisfied homeowners throughout the years.
It’s simple really . . . Purchaseoneofourcompletedand availablehomes,andwe’llbuyyour CordilleraRanchlotfromyou! Offerissubjecttochangewithoutnotice. Lotpurchaseiscontingentuponmutuallyagreeduponpricefor bothlotandhomebeingpurchased.
For more information on our Lot Purchase Program, available homes in prestigious Cordillera Ranch, or to schedule a custom build appointment, please contact Talashia Jansen. ~ 830.980.4198(O) / 210.852.8503 (M)
[email protected] Visit us on the web at
StadlerCustomHomes.com
Memorial Day Celebrations C
ordillera residents celebrated Memorial Day with food, fun and games by the pool. From music and dancing to hula-hoop contests and poolside slide, the Clubhouse hosted fun for all ages. Cordillera Ranch extends its heartfelt thanks to each and every member of the armed forces that has defended the freedoms of this great country.
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
59
Rod Boyle
staff feature
60
|
July / August 2009
Name: Rod Boyle Hometown: Anaheim, California Current Residence: Boerne, Texas Education: Oral Roberts University Azusa Pacific University How Long have you been at Cordillera Ranch: I started at Cordillera Ranch on October 1st 2003 after having been at ArrowCreek Country Club in Reno, Nevada for four years.
What are some things that residents of Cordillera Ranch may not know about you? I am the second oldest of eight children. There are four boys and four girls. I played football, basketball and baseball in high school. Having played college baseball all four years, I was an All-District selection after hitting .345 my junior year, and .350 my senior year. What is amazing that after 30 years, I still hold the single game stolen base record. I coached high school basketball and baseball seven years with two of them as the Varsity Head Baseball Coach at Anaheim High School. After coaching, I wanted to stay in sports and became a high school and college basketball official. I officiated quite a few of the finest California High School players – with many of them playing in the NBA today. I finished with a total of 11 years as an official, seven of them at the NCAA level. Having spent a majority of your life on the West Coast, what do you like about the Texas Hill Country? This is a beautiful part of the country most people will never know exists. It’s easy to understand why Boerne has had tremendous growth and success. The residents and members of Cordillera Ranch always tell me how they love it here and how the lifestyle has enriched their experience. I feel very fortunate having come from a location so close to Lake Tahoe (Reno) and now call the Texas Hill Country – home. What are some of your hobbies & interests? Absolutely love to travel. Having been raised in a big family, vacations were rare and money was very tight. I feel blessed to be able to see so much of the country on my days off and vacations. I love to play golf and especially different golf courses throughout the country. It was real tough when we were under construction here at Cordillera Ranch, I couldn’t wait for the golf course to finish after working at a 36-hole facility in Reno and playing regularly. What is your favorite sport? What sporting event was a special experience? My favorites are the NBA & Major League Baseball. I grew up a Lakers & Dodgers fan. I truly love college basketball and enjoy watching good college football games as well. I have attended the Masters, the Final Four here in San Antonio, World Series, NBA Finals, Rose Bowl, Stanley Cup and U.S. Open to name a few special moments.
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” – Billy Graham What has been your biggest challenge at Cordillera Ranch? I would have to say the initial offering of membership back in October of 2003. I had 45 days to sell 150 Full Golf Memberships to property owners who purchased in Cordillera Ranch with no promise of there ever being a golf course. I was selling with no facilities for them to see. The prospective member was purchasing purely on vision. There were so many naysayers during the offering period that thought this club project would never get off the ground. Thank you to all of you who stepped up and made this project a reality. How would you describe your interaction with members at Cordillera Ranch? I truly believe with all my heart that we have some of the best members in all the United States. Cordillera Ranch members will take time to stop their golf, delay their dining experience, stop their workout to meet and interact with prospective members to explain and elaborate why they enrolled as a member in to The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch. This sells more memberships than the facilities themselves. You spent three (3) years working on the pipeline project in Alaska, what was that like and do you have any unusual stories? It was a great experience. I worked Security and was 21 years old when I began my adventure on the Trans Alaskan Pipeline. I carried a gun and a badge, monitored the gate at a number of facilities that housed the pipeline employees. One of my tours was at Chandalar Camp just north of the Arctic Circle. Part of my job was to chase grizzly bears out of camp in the early morning hours when the camp was a sleep. With the summers being 24-hours of light, it was not as if I was chasing them in the dark. One story is that I was eating lunch around 2 a.m. and I heard someone walk in to the mess hall wearing metal golf spikes? Well it wasn’t metal spikes, it was a grizzly bear with its long claws wandering in and cleaning out the morning pastries the chef was preparing for the camp. I hopped up on the table and pushed over the utensil cart and made enough noise for the bear to run out. And yes, you got it; the bear wasn’t the only one that was scared. If you had a “Dream Foursome” to play golf, who would you have? Jerry West, Sandy Koufax, John Wooden and Phil Mickelson.
What are a few of your favorite quotes and from whom? “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – John Wooden
CordilleraRanchLiving.com
|
61
GOLF
golf course HAMPIONS Congratulations to the Cordillera Ranch golfing champions, who participated in the XXXX tournament on XXXXXXX this many people participated in the tournament, making the games on the Cordillera course an exciting success.
Tab Birdwell and Steve Jensen
2009 Sticks and Stones Member-Member Champions
Jarratt Jones
Dan Blake
2009 Men’s Club Champion
President’s Flight Champion
Bob Murphy
Jimmy Garrison
First Flight Champion
Second Flight Champion
meet your neighbors
Welcomes Its Newest Residents! Rod & Mary Beverly John and Karen Blank Kathryn & Michael Calverley Ron and Patricia Denny Herb and Melody Escobar Martha Gideon Jim and Donna Hawes Ron and Tisha Hicks Bill and Shelli Hummel Ted and Mary Beth Joslyn Michael and Rhnee Kincaid Armando and Deana Martinez Sam and Susan Moseley John and Susan Ross Alan Schaefer and Dena Hudson David and Ellen Tippetts Andrew and Bernie Tosdevin
T
McRae M.D.
Medical Laser Spa
he Premier Laser Center in the Texas Hill Country
After four years of treating satisfied laser patients – we continue to provide the best! #UTERA 4ITAN s ,ASER 'ENESIS Intense pulsed laser hair removal & vein removal /BAGI s -ICRODERMABRASION s &ACIALS