Their early years followed a familiar Lake Highlands path — school, work, and long days spent in local businesses. Joe worked for many years at Ken’s Auto Parts and also did construction work for Rhonda’s dad during hot summer months. Rhonda walked to her first job at Godfather’s Pizza near Northlake Shopping Center, later working at Fresh Approach Grocery Store. She eventually joined Castle Gap Jewelry, where she spent 17 years and became general manager before starting a family. Those experiences shaped a shared work ethic and appreciation for local businesses that still guide them today.

Now, Joe and Rhonda own and operate C&C Exteriors together. Working side by side is a natural extension of a partnership that started decades ago. Over the years, they were actively involved in their children’s schools and activities, volunteering time and supporting organizations connected to their kids. Today, they continue giving back through company sponsorships that support local schools and service organizations throughout the area.

Their children have carried the Lake Highlands connection forward in their own ways. Their daughter Nicole, 25, is a Lake Highlands High School alum from the Class of 2019 and serves as Director of Austin Sunshine Camp, a nonprofit providing free camp opportunities for children from low-income families and those in foster care. Their son Jake, 22, graduated from LHHS in 2022 and joined the family business last year. He has quickly shown a natural ability for customer service and project management, bringing the same attention and care to clients that Joe is known for.

The family also includes two dogs who are very much part of daily life. Cosmo, their 11-year-old golden retriever, is named after Cosmo Kramer from Seinfeld and lives up to his quirky namesake. Lizzy, an approximately 11-year-old rescue mix, was once an escape artist but now prefers to stay close to her people.

This past year has marked a new chapter. Both Nicole and Jake were married within the last six months. Nicole married her high school sweetheart, someone she has known since pre-K. Jake met his wife on a family cruise and later proposed on a cruise ship. Now empty nesters, Joe and Rhonda enjoy spending time with their kids when they visit, often gathered in the backyard or by the pool with dogs in tow. When they’re not home, they’re likely traveling, with Carnival cruises being a favorite.

When asked what they love most about Lake Highlands, Joe and Rhonda point to the people. When there’s a need, neighbors step in. Their advice to families new to the area is to get involved, spend time at the parks, support local businesses, and build relationships. From home improvement projects to coffee or unique gifts, there’s almost always a Lake Highlands family-owned business ready to help.

Their favorite neighborhood spots include Goldie’s, McRae’s, El Vecino, and MoMo Italian, while White Rock Lake remains a favorite place to unwind. At home, dinners are often unplanned, with Rhonda setting out ingredients and Joe creating something on the spot. Rhonda cheers for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Joe follows McLaren in Formula 1, and both enjoy neighborhood traditions like the Fourth of July Parade, LHHS sports, farmers markets, and the State Fair.

For Joe and Rhonda, Lake Highlands is more than an address. It’s where their story began — and where it continues.