Health + Wellness

MENtal MATTERs: Wellness for Men

Empowering Black Men's Mental Health Through Supportive Communities, Innovative Programming, Education, Advocacy, and Partnerships Article by Ken Crawford | Photography by Courtesy of MENtal MATTERs MENtal MATTERs, a nonprofit founded in July 2023, is dedicated to promoting, protecting, and prioritizing the mental health and wellness of Black men. Born from the vision and personal experiences of founder and president Dwayne Ware, who recognized a critical lack of accessible resources, MENtal...

Health + Wellness

A Journey of Self-Awareness

Fighting Cancer with Strength and Confidence from Within Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Ty Harper Photography There are really no words to describe the quiet heroes living amongst us.  And there are many of them, although their paths may be different. Some have risked helping others while endangering themselves. Others, like Ty Harper, have endured a chronic illness but emerged stronger and more resilient on the other side of it.  Ty’s life turned upside down in February 2024...

Education

Educator(s) of the Month

Rockwall ISD Names 2025 BEST Teachers of the Year Article and Photography by Rockwall Independent School District Rockwall ISD announced the 2025 Sheri Stodghill Fowler BEST Teachers of the Year, recognizing two outstanding first-year educators for their exceptional impact in the classroom.  The Best (Beginning Educators…Successful Teacher) program supports and celebrates first-year educators across the district.  Sarah Fladeland, a first-grade teacher at Ouida Springer Elementary, has been...

Health + Wellness

Straight Talk about Low Testosterone

How to Feel, Function, and Live Your Best Article by Eva Mackey Meyrat, MD | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia As a physician, one of the most common concerns I hear from my male patients—especially those over 40—is about changes in energy, mood, sexual wellness, and muscle strength. Many ask, "Could it be low testosterone?" And often, it’s a valid question. In recent years there has been a proliferation of testosterone replacement clinics that promise men a fountain of...

Food + Beverage

An American Pub Crawl

Exploring Rockwall's Local Breweries Article by Deborah Dove | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia A traditional pub crawl might be the invention of the British, but who says exploring multiple pubs can't be done right here in the Rockwall area? Thanks to a handful of local breweries that make their own craft beers, the spirit of the pub crawl can be enjoyed right here at home. Check out one or all of these local breweries and experience a fun night out with friends trying new...

Auto + Marine

Gearing Up for Good

Coffee and Cars Rockwall Is Fueling the Community One Donation at a Time Article by Angi Burns | Photography by Fernando Aguillon: FAtography Cars and Coffee Rockwall, founded by TJ Embree, is more than just a monthly gathering of car enthusiasts—it’s a high-octane celebration of community, charity, and all things automotive. Every third Saturday of the month, car lovers meet at Cavender Nissan of Rockwall to show off their classic, exotic, and specialty vehicles, sip coffee, and chat about...

Health + Wellness

Blue Tie Guy Ambassadors

Nonprofit of the Month Sponsored by Artisan Masonry & Granite Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Courtesy of Blue Tie Guys The Blue Tie Guy Ambassadors for Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County (CACRC) are a group of businessmen and leaders committed to supporting the CACRC’s goals and mission. Each Blue Tie Guy Ambassador serves a minimum of a one-year term, with a fundraising goal of $2,500. They also commit to coordinating at least one community training session for child...

Home + Design

Artisan Masonry: Leading with Heart

Craftmanship, Community, and Commitment Come Together Article by Fatima Durrani | Photography by Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia Behind every successful businessman lies the tale of his journey. For over three decades, Bobby Gladu, owner of Artisan Masonry & Granite LLC, has been building not only structures made of brick and stone but also a life built on solid family values and a hard-working ethic.  As a dedicated entrepreneur and advocate for Rockwall, Texas, Bobby has combined the...

Fitness

Play Outdoors

Welcome to Rockwall's Recreation Scene Article by Ken Crawford Rockwall’s recreation scene has something for everyone looking to stay active, build friendships, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re into team sports, solo workouts, or just want a reason to hang out, this summer is packed with ways to get moving. The Men’s and Coed Adult Softball Leagues bring the heat with competitive doubleheaders and plenty of post-game banter. Prefer a quick, social workout? Pickleball is booming with...

Entertainment

Women Know What Women Want

Enjoy a hand-crafted experience at Rockwall’s premier woman-run restaurant Article by Valerie Merrick | Photography by Andrea Carr: Andrea Elizabeth Photography Gail Fletcher had a simple dream of perfection, elegant surroundings, a piano bar, a place to relax, connect, and enjoy friendships. That dream turned into a much larger project, culminating in an 8,000-square-foot steak restaurant with an inside lounge and an outside casual bar at the Harbor in Rockwall. As a second-generation...