Health + Wellness

Giving Back to Heroes

Organizations That Support Veterans in North Texas Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Various Organizations Veterans, the men and women who chose to defend American civil liberties, deserve our deepest gratitude and support. With more than 5,000 veterans in Rockwall County alone, according to the National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics, their impact on our community is significant. This roundup highlights local veteran-focused nonprofits dedicated...

Home + Design

The Do’s and Don’ts of Safe Holiday Decorating

Avoiding Circuit Overload When Hanging Christmas Lights Article by Fatima Durrani On any given day, we turn our stoves on to fry a few eggs or crank up the heat on our griddles to flip some pancakes without a thought. At night, we automatically flick on the light switch so we don’t stumble in the dark or turn down the temperature if it gets too hot.  Yet most people take our electricity for granted. Today, at least 1.18 billion are “energy poor” and unable to use electricity according to the...

Food + Beverage

Local Experience

Discover local gems, create memories, and embrace authentic community experiences. Article by Deborah Dove Dodie's Rockwall: 2067 Summer Lee, Rockwall, TX Enjoy Thanksgiving dinner with a Cajun twist, with Dodie's special Cajun fried turkey breast, classic sides such as cornbread dressing and green beans amandine, with bread pudding for dessert. Cracker Barrel: 845 East Interstate 30, Rockwall, TX  Just like Thanksgiving at Grandma's house with favorites such as a golden, crispy-fried...

Education

One Unit Strong

Students Find Belonging, Mentorship, and Purpose in Joint JROTC Program Article by Tiffany Ditto | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Rockwall ISD Rockwall ISD’s Marine Corps JROTC program is only in its second year, but it is already making its mark on the community and students by blending students from different schools, backgrounds, and abilities into one unit. District leaders worked for years to secure a JROTC program in Rockwall before its debut in 2024. Unlike many JROTC programs...

Home + Design

Homes for Heroes

A Real Estate Agent’s Mission to End Misinformation and Help Veterans Purchase Homes Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Photography Courtesy of VBRG Veterans often bump into considerable obstacles when trying to purchase their first home. Whether that’s due to misinformation, miscommunication, or plain old ignorance, it behooves both veterans and real estate agents to check the facts–twice.  Reading between the lines isn’t easy, especially for veterans who may be slowly transitioning...

Life + Culture

When Waters Rise and Recede

Rockwall County’s Lifeline to Kerr County Flood Victims Article by Patti Faulhaber | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Various Individuals When news reports began pouring in about the devastating flood on July 4th in Kerr County, Texas, and surrounding areas, hearts across the state broke. The rising waters of the Guadalupe River—surging nearly 26 feet in just 45 minutes—tore through homes, businesses, and summer camps. One loss cut especially deep: When victims in Camp Mystic were swept...

Event Planning + Services

Thanksgiving Tables

Transform Your Holiday Table with Thoughtful Details and Autumn Flair Article and Photography by Mariah Leeson/Giggles Galore Thanksgiving is a holiday spent gathered around the table, so it’s important to make sure it feels welcoming and inviting for your guests.  However, setting a beautiful fall table doesn’t have to be complicated or hard. This Thanksgiving, entertain like a boss, and feel confident doing so, when you focus on these tips to create a beautiful table guaranteed to ensure...

Food + Beverage

Living the "Good Life"

Vidorra Cocina de Mexico Offers Modern Mexican Dining with Heart and Soul Article by Travis Hager | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Ashley Estave Vidorra isn’t just a restaurant. It's a celebration. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a symphony of color, energy, and the enticing aromas of a kitchen deeply rooted in Mexican tradition yet unafraid to innovate. True to its name, Vidorra (which translates “the good life”), is a place where the flavors are bold, the...

Food + Beverage

Date Night Destination

Old Ways Meet New Traditions at Wade's Landing Article by Ken G Crawford | Photography by Photography Courtesy of Wade's Landing Just at the intersection of Olive and Fannin Streets, where the sidewalks carry echoes of the past, a warm hum of conversation drifts from behind dark-paneled windows. Inside, the lighting softens, and couples settle into corners where glasses clink and dishes arrive with a low swirl of steam. It’s Wade's Landing, named for Terry Utley Wade, the geologist who...

Food + Beverage

Steak, Spirits, and Special Moments

Sear Steakhouse Hosts Private Events Where Every Toast and Taste Feels Celebrated Article by Tiffany Ditto | Photography by Heather Caplick: Heather Lanae Photography It’s just before noon at Sear Steakhouse in Rockwall, and Executive Director Mandy Mendenhall is juggling a lunch reservation, checking emails, and preparing for the night’s private event. The steakhouse has a full calendar, and by fall, there’s rarely an empty day. “We fill up fast,” she says, laughing. “Some of our regulars...