Investing in What Matters
As we step into April, a month of renewal and growth, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the power of investment—not just in the financial sense, but in all the ways we can enrich our lives, our community, and our future. True investment isn’t only about stocks and savings; it’s about where we choose to place our time, energy, and resources to create a life of meaning and lasting value.
One of the greatest investments we can make is in our community. The strength of a city is built on the dedication of its people—those who uplift local businesses, engage in community initiatives, and support the arts. Every ticket purchased for a local performance, every visit to an independent gallery, and every effort to preserve cultural traditions contributes to a more vibrant and connected society. The arts, in particular, breathe life into our surroundings, telling stories that inspire and unite us. By supporting artists and creators, we invest in the cultural richness that makes our city a place of passion and expression.
But beyond our community, we must also remember to invest in ourselves. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and the choices we make today—whether in education, health, or personal well-being—shape the future we build for ourselves. Perhaps it’s time to take that class you’ve been considering, start a new fitness routine, or carve out space for creative pursuits that bring you joy. When we prioritize self-improvement, we gain confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Of course, a well-rounded investment strategy also includes securing our financial and legal future. Thoughtful planning—whether through smart financial decisions, property investments, or legal safeguards—ensures stability and peace of mind for the road ahead. Taking the time to plan today allows us to build a future where we have the freedom and security to pursue our dreams while protecting the legacy we leave behind.
April is a reminder that what we invest in today will shape the world we live in tomorrow. Whether it’s through the connections we foster, the creativity we support, the knowledge we seek, or the financial security we build, every step we take toward meaningful investment makes a difference. Let’s make this a month of purposeful action—investing in what truly matters and creating a future we can all be proud of.
Warmly,
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Angi Burns | angi.burns@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Deborah Dove | debie.dove@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Valerie Merrick | valerie.merrick@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kathy Moreno | kathy.moreno@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Brittany McCaffety | brittany.mccaffety@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Valerie Merrick, Deborah Dove
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Adeline Merrick: Merrick Multimedia, Dallas McNeal Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Julie Barlow
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jodie Jolley, Aven Willow Portraits
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
city scene
Rockwall City Lifestyle sponsored our first Home Services Expo for community members to meet and greet our expert partners. Special thanks to Cavender Nissan of Rockwall for hosting. Photography by Merrick Multimedia. 1: Transworld Business AdvisorsJulie Barlow 2: Budget Blinds of Rockwall, Terrell, and Greenville 3: Tanners Garage Doors 4: W3 Electric 5: Patti Faulhaber - PFL Art
city scene
8 – 21: Our Five-Star Rockwall Area Chamber threw the party of the year with the Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet on February 27th. This year's Sequins & Sneakers themed event took place at Amerisports Rockwall and benefited the Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce. The evening was full of sparkle and smiles from those in attendance! Photos by PLF Art Services, Patti Faulhaber.
business monthly
Congratulations to the Rockwall Area Chamber Annual Award Winners
• Friend of Chamber, Justin Holland
• Best Practices in Community Involvement and Impact, Cavender Nissan
• Excellence in Customer Focus, T&D Construction
• Emerging Business of the Year, Fate Roofing
• Small Business of the Year, Brittex Bubbles LLC
• Ambassador of the Year, Steve Torres
• Medium Size Business of the Year, My Computer Guy
• Large Partner Organization of the Year, American National Bank of Texas
• Chairman’s Award, Sylvia Sotelo Kidd
• Chamber Partner of the Year, HomeBank Texas
Pinwheels for Prevention for Rockwall County
Children’s Advocacy Center, Lone Star CASA, and Rainbow Room join together to “plant” a pinwheel garden. Each pinwheel “planted” represents a client served last year by one of the organizations. The pinwheel garden will be displayed during April, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Join us for the ceremony to bring awareness to the importance of child abuse prevention. Rockwall County Historic Courthouse: 101 E Rusk St., Rockwall, TX 75087
Novas Fiber Is Now Serving Rockwall County
A local company that’s owned and operated by Texans for Texans right here in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. They want to do right by their customers, in part because they live here. They are community driven. Building connections is their thing. They want to connect their Texas neighbors through fiber. You’ll see them partnering with organizations across the area now and in the years to come. Novosfiber.com
Photography by PFL Art Services
Photography by Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
Welcome to the Chamber The Way to Aging!
Through Geriatric Care Management services, The Way to Aging provides solutions for concerns regarding dementia and crisis intervention. Their FREE senior placement services offer solutions in environments such as assisted living, board, and memory care. If the person can safely remain at home, they can assist with home care solutions. Thewaytoaging.com
Photography by Rockwall Area Chamber of Commerce
local experiences
DISCOVER LOCAL GEMS, CREATE MEMORIES, AND EMBRACE AUTHENTIC COMMUNITY EXPERIENCES.
ARTICLE BY DEBORAH DOVE
Not only does investing your time and talents provide you with a sense of purpose, but it’s also a great way to connect with your community and make it a better place. Whether you’re looking to volunteer once or on a regular basis, opportunities to make a difference in Rockwall abound.
Rockwall Fire Department | A partnering effort between the emergency services and the people they serve, CERT training equips individuals with basic response training they can use in their own home, neighborhood, and workplace. Volunteer members are also called upon during major disasters, structure fires, and wide-area searches if more manpower is needed. Learn more or apply online at mainstreet.rockwall.com/volunteer.asp
Helping Hands of Rockwall County | Volunteer your time and talent to help Rockwall residents in need. Opportunities— both one-time and ongoing—include working at the thrift store and boutique, food pantry, and special events. Learn more at rockwallhelpinghands.com/volunteer/
Meals on Wheels | Volunteering with Meals on Wheels is a great way to get out and help our home-bound seniors and people with disabilities right here in Rockwall County! Meals on Wheels delivers over 95,000 nutritious meals annually to people who are over 60 years old and disabled whose health prevents them from fully caring for themselves. Learn more at rockwallmealsonwheels.org/volunteer/
Lonestar CASA | Lone Star CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) provides courts with the information needed to act in the best interests of abused and neglected children in Rockwall and Kaufman Counties and ensure they’re placed in safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. Become a volunteer advocate who independently investigates a child’s situation and makes recommendations and change a child’s life. Learn more at lonestarcasa.org/volunteer/
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK MULTIMEDIA
“I feel like our center is different because it has more of a home feeling.”
Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County
Nonprofit of the Month Sponsored by Artisan Masonry & Granite
Just past downtown Rockwall is a quaint red-brick building with a blue door. From the outside, it appears to be a small space dedicated to the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County (CACRC), but once you enter, it’s clear that the space has been thoughtfully designed to help heal each person who steps inside. The CACRC serves a vital need for the local community; it’s a safe space centered around creating a calming atmosphere for children who are experiencing trauma.
A children’s advocacy center (CAC) is a nonprofit agency that coordinates a multidisciplinary response to child abuse. Centers like the CACRC offer healing services for victims of child abuse and their families through their advocacy and counseling programs and provide prevention education in the community.
Farrah Brabson, Director of Community Engagement and Training at CACRC, explains that while these centers serve a vital role in the community, they
take time and intention to create. “You can’t just open a CAC. You have to meet standards and be accredited through the National Children’s Alliance and the state. But I feel like our center is different because it has more of a home feeling.”
When you enter the CACRC, it’s clear that each item has been purposefully chosen to ensure it creates a safe and positive atmosphere for children and families. From the colorful mural in the main activity room to the paper cranes leading the way to the interview space, each area feels comfortable and thoughtful.
Farrah invites everyone to get involved. “You’re able to help the Children’s Advocacy Center through attending our events, sharing our social posts, and making sure that the education gets out there. The first step to prevent child abuse is awareness, and all of us can take a part in that.”
To learn more about, donate to, or get involved with the CACRC, visit their website at https://rockwallcac.org/
ARTICLE BY VALERIE MERRICK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINE MERRICK: MERRICK
FINANCIAL EDUCATION FROM A FAMILY MAN
RAMIREZ
FAMILY
WEALTH ANSWERS IMPORTANT QUESTIONS REGARDING FAMILY FINANCE
For local DFW resident Homer Ramirez, helping clients build their family wealth was rooted in his own family’s trauma. “I was not given education about money or wealth from my parents. My mother sold out of the market at the bottom of the tech bubble in 2001, and my father failed to invest in equities in his 401k at all.” But this was just the start of his story, not the end. Despite his own financial missteps in his twenties, Homer was able to support himself through college.
As he matured, he was intrigued by financial markets and financial planning. “I vowed to become financially savvy and teach my family how to build and manage family wealth so I could provide opportunities to my kids that I never had,” Homer recalls. In his practice, Homer has a big mission: “Empower families to live their best lives in retirement and build generational family wealth through education, an integrated wealth management process, and a handholding service model.”
To share his knowledge, Homer answered a few questions to help educate others.
“FINANCIAL PLANS THAT ALIGN INVESTMENTS WITH YOUR GOALS CAN HELP TAKE EMOTIONS OUT OF INVESTING AND HELP YOU TO AVOID BUYING AND SELLING AT THE WRONG TIME.”
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON INVESTMENT MISTAKES YOU SEE, AND HOW CAN THEY BE AVOIDED?
The first mistake is investing without a plan. Financial plans that align investments with your goals can help take emotions out of investing and help you to avoid buying and selling at the wrong time. Focusing on the timeline of the goal helps investors stick with their investment plan through the ups and downs of the market. This keeps you from chasing returns and changing your investment to what did good last year.
The other mistake is not diversifying. After all, diversification is the holy grail of investing. Diversification means not picking one stock or one sector. Instead, make sure you invest across multiple asset classes, industries, and geographic regions that are uncorrelated or have low correlation. Picking 30 different stocks that would all perform poorly if interest rates rose or if a certain policy was passed is not diversifying your risk because they’re all positively correlated, meaning they all go up and down together.
Finally, you can’t ignore fees and tax drag. Fees and taxes can eat into your investment returns which, over time, can mean less wealth accumulation. Working with a professional that is an investment fiduciary, meaning someone who has a legal obligation to act for the beneficiary’s benefit—not their own—can help educate you on the fees and tax impacts that may not be apparent at first glance.
HOW DO YOU HELP CLIENTS NAVIGATE THE COMPLEXITIES OF TAX PLANNING AS THEY APPROACH RETIREMENT OR PASS WEALTH TO THE NEXT GENERATION?
I help by ensuring my clients understand their taxes. Texas is a community property state, which means married couples can benefit from a full step-up in basis on certain appreciated assets. Knowing the tax laws and working with a wealth advisor and tax professional who does can help with titling assets appropriately to take advantage of this huge tax saver when transferring wealth to family.
I also help my clients consider charitable giving. Giving feels good and helps our communities while also giving us a tax benefit. However, there are more options to gifting than just writing a check. By utilizing some lesser known strategies like donor-advised funds, philanthropic goals and wealth creation can both be accomplished.
WHAT ROLE DOES ESTATE PLANNING PLAY IN YOUR INVESTMENT
ADVICE FOR YOUR CLIENTS?
Estate planning is the foundation of every financial plan, and yet it is commonly overlooked. For wealthy families, poorly executed estate plans, or no plan at all, can cause a burden to others. We ensure that when passing on wealth, there will not be surprising negative outcomes. For beneficiaries that rely on government disability income, leaving assets in their name can have the unintended consequence of disqualifying them from their much-needed government disability benefits.
Homer Ramirez is the Senior Vice President for Ramirez Family Wealth of Raymond James. You can learn more about him at RamirezFamilyWealth.com
DISCLAIMER:
The information contained in this newsletter does not purport to be a complete description of the securities, markets, or developments referred to in this material. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Homer Ramirez and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. There is no guarantee that these statements, opinions or forecasts provided herein will prove to be correct. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions.
Donors are urged to consult their attorneys, accountants or tax advisors with respect to questions relating to the deductibility of various types of contributions to a Donor-Advised Fund for federal and state tax purposes. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.
Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC.
BEYOND THE STAGE
Investing in the arts is not just about supporting creativity; it’s about nurturing essential life skills. For young performers, arts education provides a holistic approach to learning, and continued involvement in the arts throughout adulthood can serve as a healthy escape from the daily grind.
THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF INVESTING IN THE ARTS
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS
Photo Courtesy of Aven Willow Portraits, Dancer
- Averly Belle Burns
Theatre, music, and dance spaces provide a safe outlet for artists to develop their emotional intelligence and learn empathy. Artists constantly walk in someone else’s shoes, honing their ability to understand and relate to diverse perspectives. These skills are invaluable in a world where collaboration and understanding are paramount. Through portraying characters from various backgrounds and worldviews, actors learn to embody different emotions and experiences, fostering a sense of empathy that transcends the stage.
Whether interpreting abstract ideas or telling compelling stories, the performing arts encourage one to think outside the box and approach challenges with fresh perspectives. Students of the arts learn to embrace ambiguity and explore multiple solutions to complex problems.
The collaborative nature of these disciplines also encourages participants to listen actively and communicate clearly, fostering solid interpersonal skills essential in both personal and professional settings.
Lastly, and often the most rewarding aspect, is the fact that the arts promote mental health and resilience. Dealing with rejection and performance anxiety requires coping mechanisms and selfcare practices, fostering emotional resilience and stability. By confronting challenges head-on and learning to manage stress in a supportive environment, artists can develop the skills to navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence and grace.
By providing a platform for self-expression and personal growth, engaging in the arts empowers performers to discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, and embrace their full potential. It is not just about putting on a show; it’s about shaping confident, adaptable, and empathetic individuals equipped to succeed in any endeavor.
Most arts organizations are nonprofits that rely on the generosity and support of the community. Purchasing a ticket to see a show, volunteering your time, and donating materials or monetarily are only a few of the opportunities available to invest in the local arts community.
“Most arts organizations are nonprofits that rely on the generosity and support of the community.”
CHECK OUT THESE LOCAL ARTS ORGANIZATIONS: Visual Art rockwallartleague.org
Theatre rockwallsummermusicals.org rockwallcommunityplayhouse.org
Dance studio323dance.com rockwalldanceacademy.com ckdance.net
Music rockwallmusic.com schoolofrock.com/locations/rockwall rockwallphilharmonic.com greaterrockwallyouthsymphony.org
Selling Your Business
ARTICLE BY JULIE BARLOW, TRANSWORLD BUSINESS ADVISORS PHOTOGRAPHY BY DALLAS MCNEAL PHOTOGRAPHY
For many business owners, selling their company isn’t just about moving on—it’s a strategic financial decision. A well-planned sale can provide significant returns and open the door to new investment opportunities. As a former business owner herself— three times over—Julie Barlow has been through it all: buying, building, and eventually selling. Julie has previously owned three brick-and-mortar businesses in the fitness and wellness industry. After purchasing her last business, where she worked with a business broker, she realized that her skill set and experience were well-suited to help business owners navigate the complexities of a business purchase or a sale of their business.
Julie understands the unique challenges small business owners face and is passionate and skilled at helping them maximize their exit value, navigate the process of selling their business, and growing strategically through acquisition. Here’s a Q&A guide with Julie to help you understand how selling your business can be a smart financial move.
Q: WHY IS SELLING A BUSINESS A GOOD INVESTMENT DECISION?
A: Owning a business is one of the most hands-on investments you can make. When it’s time to sell, you’re essentially cashing in on years of hard work, allowing you to reinvest in new opportunities, whether that’s another business, real estate, or retirement funds.
Q: HOW CAN I MAXIMIZE THE VALUE OF MY BUSINESS BEFORE SELLING?
A: To attract the best offers, focus on profitability, streamline operations, and maintain clear financial records. A strong customer base, recurring revenue, and a well-documented business model can also make your business more appealing to buyers.
Q: HOW CAN I ENSURE A SMOOTH BUSINESS SALE PROCESS?
A: Proper planning is key. Working with a professional exit planner, business broker, and financial advisor well in
advance ensures you will maximize value and minimize potential roadblocks.
A skilled business broker can give you specific steps you can take to prepare your business for sale in the future. Examples include removing yourself from operations, minimizing customer concentration issues, and improving your online presence and reputation.
Q: HOW CAN I MINIMIZE TAXES WHEN SELLING MY BUSINESS?
A: The tax implications of selling a business depend on factors such as the sale structure and timing. Capital gains tax rates may apply, offering lower tax liability than ordinary income tax. Additionally, options like a 1031 Exchange or seller-financing the deal can help defer taxes and preserve more of your proceeds. Consulting a tax professional ensures you choose the best strategy for your financial situation.
Q: WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH THE PROCEEDS AFTER SELLING MY BUSINESS?
A: Many entrepreneurs reinvest their proceeds into new ventures, diversify into stocks and real estate, or secure their retirement through wealth management strategies. The key is to have a clear investment plan before the sale so you can make the most of your newfound liquidity.
Q: HOW DOES SELLING MY BUSINESS PROVIDE FINANCIAL SECURITY?
A: Owning a business means having much of your time, energy, and financial resources tied up in a single entity, which carries inherent risks. Market downturns, industry disruptions, or unexpected events can threaten your financial stability. Selling your business allows you to minimize these risks by diversifying your wealth across multiple investments. By converting your business equity into liquid assets, you gain more control over your financial future, reduce dependency on a single income source, and create opportunities for more balanced and secure wealth management.
“Selling your business is more than just an exit— it’s an opportunity to turn years of effort into lasting financial security.”
“Owning a business is one of the most hands-on investments you can make. When it’s time to sell, you’re essentially cashing in on years of hard work, allowing you to reinvest in new opportunities, whether that’s another business, real estate, or retirement funds.”
Q: WHY WOULD YOU CHOOSE TO WORK WITH A BUSINESS BROKER?
• You must keep the sale confidential.
• You want to get the best price.
• You need quality and knowledgeable representation.
• The selling of a business is a very complex process.
• Most successful business owners don’t have experience selling a business.
• Owners in general do not have the time to sell their own company.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Selling your business is more than just an exit—it’s an opportunity to turn years of effort into lasting financial security. With careful planning and strategic reinvestment, the sale of your business can be a catalyst for wealth-building and financial freedom. If you’re considering selling, now is the time to position your business for maximum value and future success.
Julie Barlow is a business broker with the largest and most successful business brokerage in the world. She can be reached at (214) 727-9696.
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BEST INVESTMENT BOOKS TO READ
THESE INVESTMENT BOOKS CAN HELP YOU STAY UP-TO-DATE ON THE LATEST FINANCIAL TRENDS
ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMON AND SCHUSTER
Investing in your future is critical yet complicated. While reaching out to qualified professionals is vital—whether you’re building your business, investing in your financial security, or planning for retirement—doing some of your own research is often helpful.
We checked out some of the top investment books that help you better understand how to invest in your future and build wealth.
1 2 3 4 5 6
ONE UP ON WALL STREET
One Up On Wall Street: How to Use What You Already Know to Make Money in the Market by Peter Lynch with John Rothchild. Peter Lynch explains average investors’ advantages over professionals and how they can use these advantages to achieve financial success.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Navigating the Brave New World of Personal Investment, part of Economist Books, by Peter Stanyer, Masood Javaid, and Stephe Satchell. A dynamic new guide to personal investment for the era of cryptocurrencies and personal trading platforms.
POWER YOUR PROFITS
Power Your Profits: How to Take Your Business from $10,000 to $10,000,000 by Susie Carder. While not a traditional book on investments, Power Your Profits helps you discover how to take your business from startup mode to the multi-million-dollar mark.
THE WEALTH DECISION
The Wealth Decision: 10 Simple Steps to Achieve Financial Freedom and Build Generational Wealth by Dominique Broadway. A roadmap for becoming a millionaire and building the foundation of generational wealth from a self-made, first-generation multimillionaire.
THE WOLF OF INVESTING
The Wolf of Investing: My Insider’s Playbook for Making a Fortune on Wall Street by Jordan Belfort. From the investment guru and author of The Wolf of Wall Street, this is a witty and clear-eyed guide for anyone who wants to play the stock market to their advantage and learn the secrets of a top Wall Street investor.
HOW TO INVEST
How to Invest: Masters on the Craft by David M. Rubenstein. This book is a master class on investing, featuring conversations with the biggest names in finance. Brought to you by the legendary cofounder of The Carlyle Group, David M. Rubenstein.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT CHECK
Daniel Taylor, Sell With Dan Taylor - eXp Realty, 251-802-9937
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JODIE JOLLEY, AVEN WILLOW PORTRAITS
Smart Ways to Invest in Real Estate and Maximize Returns From Expert, Daniel Taylor
Rockwall County is a prime spot for real estate investment, especially in land and development. Here’s how to maximize returns:
1. Buy Undeveloped Land
Raw land in high-growth areas offers strong appreciation potential. Focus on locations near expanding infrastructure or planned developments.
2. Develop Residential or Commercial Properties
With Rockwall’s population growing, developing homes or businesses can be highly profitable. Research zoning laws and partner with local builders for success.
3. Buy and Hold for Appreciation
Holding land in key areas can yield big returns as property values rise. Stay informed on market trends and future developments.
4. Generate Passive Income
Leasing land for farming, ranching, or recreational use (RV parks, hunting) can provide steady income while the land appreciates.
5. Stay Ahead of Local Trends
Monitor development plans, infrastructure projects, and zoning changes to make informed investment decisions.
By focusing on land acquisition and smart development, investors can tap into Rockwall County’s booming real estate market.
ARTICLE BY ANGI BURNS
Veteran of The Month
Meet Mayor Pro Tem, Clarence L. Jorif
This month, we are proud to honor Clarence L. Jorif as our Veteran of the Month. With over 23 years of service in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, Clarence’s unwavering dedication to duty and exceptional leadership have left a lasting impact both in his military career and in his community. Clarence is happily married to his wife of 25 years, Lyne, and they have three daughters — Maya, Sydney and Darby. They have resided in Rockwall for the past 13 years and have made themselves permanent fixtures within the Rockwall community through untold numbers of volunteer opportunities. Clarence began his military journey as a Military Policeman at Fort Hood, Texas, serving with the 410th and 401st Military Police Companies. Rising through the ranks from Private First
Class to Staff Sergeant in just four years, Clarence’s commitment to service was evident from the start. His experience with military law enforcement laid the foundation for his future role as a Special Agent with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command (CID) from 1985 to 1994.
As a Chief Warrant Officer in the CID, Clarence took on a pivotal role in the Protective Services Division, where he served as the Detail Leader for high-profile figures, including Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Colin Powell, and other U.S. Army and Department of Defense officials. His responsibilities spanned across the globe, including in conflict zones like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iraq, and Dubai during Operation Desert Storm. The
work required a combination of perseverance, quick thinking, and a strong commitment to the safety of those he protected. Clarence credits his firm religious beliefs for helping him through the harrowing moments of his military service.
Following his active duty, Clarence transitioned seamlessly into the U.S. Army Reserves, where he earned the rank of Chief Warrant Officer III. He also contributed to investigations in the Netherlands and at Fort Hood, Texas, overseeing a variety of criminal cases involving crimes against persons, property, drugs, and economic crimes. His continued service as a law enforcement professional furthered his commitment to safeguarding others and ensuring justice was served.
After leaving active duty, Clarence’s career in law enforcement continued to flourish. He served as a Police Officer with the Arlington County Police Department and later as a Senior Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service, where he spent over two decades working on investigations ranging from bank fraud to counterfeit operations and providing protective intelligence. His expertise in electronic crimes, firearms instruction, and emergency medical services made him a versatile and invaluable asset in every role he took on.
Clarence’s dedication to service did not stop with his military and law enforcement careers. He continues to give back to his community as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Rockwall County Sheriff’s Office and a Reserve Investigator with the Lavon Police Department. In addition, he is the proud founder and CEO of The Compound Nevada, an outdoor shooting sports training facility in Nevada, Texas, which provides high-quality training in self-defense, emergency medicine, and firearm safety.
In his personal life, Clarence is deeply involved in his community. He serves as an advisor to the Youth Advisory Council,
a member of the Rockwall ISD School Safety Committee, and a graduate of Leadership Rockwall. As Mayor Pro Tem and Council Member Place 3 for the City of Rockwall, Clarence’s leadership skills are already helping to shape the future of our community. His aspiration to become the next Mayor of Rockwall speaks to his selfless commitment to continue making a positive difference in the lives of all Rockwall citizens.
Clarence’s service and leadership have not gone unrecognized. He is the proud recipient of the Congressional Patriot Award and the Congressional Veteran Commendation, honors that celebrate his excellence, leadership, and selflessness both during and after his military service.
When asked about his philosophy on service, Clarence reflected, “Service to others is the best work of life. The difference you make for others helps to make a difference in your own life.” His belief in selfless service continues to inspire and guide his actions every day.
Clarence’s impact is immeasurable, and his legacy of service serves as a shining example for all. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and dedication to the greater good. Whether in uniform or civilian life, Clarence L. Jorif’s commitment to making a difference is clear, and his example will continue to inspire future generations of service-minded individuals in Rockwall and beyond.
Thank you, Clarence, for your continued service and unwavering commitment to our community. We are proud to call you one of our own.
*Rockwall City Lifestyle “Of the Month” feature articles are selected from community nominations received through our nomination form or via email. The featured community members do not constitute any political or business endorsement from Rockwall City Lifestyle.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
APRIL 12TH
Aspasians 2025 Spring Marketplace
Wilkerson-Sanders Memorial Stadium Parking Lot: 1201 T.L. Townsend Dr., Rockwall, TX 75087 | 8:30 AM
Join the Aspasians, a volunteer group of women in Rockwall County, in their biannual market, which supports local businesses and raises funds for college scholarships. All proceeds from vendor booth rentals and bottled water sales go towards the funding of scholarships for Rockwall County graduating high school seniors.
APRIL 12TH
Rockwall’s Spring Eggstravaganza
The Harbor Rockwall: 2059 Summer Lee Dr., Rockwall, TX 75032 | 1:00 PM
Get ready for an egg-citing celebration as we welcome spring at the Spring Eggstravaganza! This FREE event is packed with nonstop fun, including bounce houses, carnival games, and more! Bring your Easter baskets and hop along the Easter Egg Trail, where local vendors will be handing out eggs as you play fun games at their booths!
APRIL 13TH
Texas Got Talent Show + Market
The Northside: 190 Shenandoah Ln., Rockwall, TX 75087 | 12:00 PM
Come see all kinds of performances and shop local vendors at this family friendly event. Enjoy free admission to the talent show as well as shopping from local vendors, food trucks, flash tattoos, permanent jewelry, and a hat bar! Relax with lawn games and happy hour until 3 p.m.
APRIL 16TH
Rockwall City Lifestyle Business to Business Happy Hour
Sear Steakhouse & Lounge: 2101 Summer Lee Dr Ste 109 Rockwall, TX 75032 United States | 5:00 PM
Open to local business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders looking to connect, collaborate, and grow their networks. This event provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere to build meaningful relationships, explore potential partnerships, and share ideas with like-minded professionals. Enjoy great conversations, delicious appetizers, refreshing drinks, and new opportunities.
APRIL 16TH
The City of Rockwall Candidate Forum
The Center: 108 E Washington St, Rockwall, TX 75087 | 6:00 PM
The City of Rockwall will host a Candidate Forum for the contested Rockwall City Council seats in the upcoming election. The event will be open to the public and also live-streamed so residents have ample opportunity to view the forum.
APRIL 19TH
Heart of Heath 5k & 1 Mile Family Run
The Reserve of Heath Creek: 215 Chris Cuny Pkwy., Heath, TX 75032 | 7:00 AM
Help raise money for the parks and trails system of Heath while enjoying activities in the spring weather. Take part in a 5k or 1-mile run, or relax with giant-size games and complimentary coffee from Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck. Don’t miss prize drawings for registered runners, Stretch Zone and Camp Gladiator booths, and the Easter Bunny!
APRIL 24TH & 26TH
Rockwall Summer Musicals Presents Godspell
First United Methodist Church: 1200 Yellowjacket Ln., Rockwall TX 75087 | 7:30 PM
Check out a local rendition of the 1970s classic musical, Godspell! Enjoy a unique blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, as the story of Jesus’s life dances across the stage. Join Rockwall Summer Musicals, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, for their first show of the 2025 season.
APRIL 26TH
9th Annual Go Blue for Kids Gala
Hilton Dallas/Rockwall Lakefront: 2055 Summer Lee Dr., Rockwall, TX 75032 | 5:30 PM
Everyone is on Cloud 9 for the 9th Annual Go Blue for Kids Gala presented by Baylor Scott & White - Lake Pointe! Come dance the night away with the Juke Box Heroes during this unforgettable evening in support of the Children’s Advocacy Center for Rockwall County.
APRIL 26TH
City of Rockwall Fishing Derby
Pickens Lake at Harry Myers Park: 945 E. Washington St., Rockwall, TX 75087 | 9:00 AM
Anglers must be between the ages of 3 – 14. For young anglers (6 and under), the parents may assist, but the child must be the one actively fishing. Anglers must register online to participate in this event; limited on-site registration may be available, but only cash will be accepted.
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies.
The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
