Auto + Marine

Rugged and Refined

2025 Land Rover Defender is Where Rugged Adventure Meets Refined Luxury Article by Angel Fuchs | Photography by Land Rover The 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 is a bold blend of off-road prowess and modern sophistication, redefining the midsize SUV experience. With multiple trims and customization options, it offers something for every driver, from urban commuters to off-road adventurers. I had the chance to test drive a Sedona Red model for 10 days, and it was an unforgettable experience. The...

Life + Culture

Southwest Adventures

Explore Adventures Close to Home Article and Photography by Susan Lanier-Graham Living in North Peoria means easy access to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, storied towns, and unforgettable experiences the Southwest has to offer. While it’s tempting to hop on a plane to distant destinations for adventures, you don’t have to go far to feed your wanderlust. Within a day's drive, you’ll find towering red rock formations, wildflower-filled alpine forests, and desert trails flanked by...

Travel

A Verde Valley Wine Weekend

Savoring a Northern Arizona Getaway at DA Ranch Article by Susan Lanier-Graham | Photography by DA Ranch Nestled in the heart of Arizona's Verde Valley, DA Ranch ( DARanch.com ) is more than a winery—it’s a story of family, land, and legacy dating back more than a century. This family-owned estate has blossomed into one of Arizona’s most beloved boutique vineyards. Surrounded by majestic cottonwoods and framed by wide-open skies, DA Ranch invites visitors to unwind and savor life, one sip at...

Travel

Santa Barbara Escape

Discover Santa Barbara's storied history and charms Article by Mimi Slawoff | Photography by Visit Santa Barbara On a sunny, breezy morning in early May, I was having coffee in downtown Santa Barbara with a friend who had moved to this Central California Coast city for college and never left. It’s understandable. With its Mediterranean climate, rich historical roots, distinctive architecture, stunning landscape, and burgeoning culinary scene, Santa Barbara is an upscale, desirable city.  We...

Travel

Our Favorite Weekend Getaways

Uncover the Best Staycations for a Local Summer Escape Article by Susan Lanier-Graham When the desert heat sets in, there’s no need to head out of state to find your summer escape. Some of Arizona’s most luxurious and relaxing getaways are right here in the Valley. Whether you’re seeking a serene spa day, championship golf, cool pools, or desert mountain views, these resort staycations offer all the perks of a vacation, without the travel hassle and at great summer discounts. From historic...

Food + Beverage

A Toast to Service

Mike Trott’s Mission: Serve Honorably. Drink Honorably. Sip to Remember. Article by Sydnee Wilson | Photography by Four Branches Bourbon Mike Trott, a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a U.S. Air Force veteran, has called Peoria home for nearly a decade. Initially drawn to Arizona by family ties, Trott and his family returned often until Peoria became their home. These roots have provided a solid foundation for Trott to co-found Four Branches Bourbon ( FourBranches.com ), a brand built on...

Auto + Marine

A Brawny Ride

Guys Will Appreciate the Everyday Versatility of the 2025 Ford Explorer ST RWD Article by Angel Fuchs The 2025 Ford Explorer ST RWD offers drivers a coveted blend of superior performance, ample space, and understated style.  This mid-size SUV is powered by a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it delivers strong acceleration and a smooth ride that feels stable and responsive in corners. I recently...

Entertainment

Get Out!

A Perfect Day Out with the Guys in Your Life Article by Susan Lanier-Graham | Photography by Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC There’s something special about spending a day outdoors with the guys—your dad, husband, brother, son, or best friend. And here in North Peoria, we’re lucky to have an adventure-filled backyard. With miles of scenic desert trails, abundant top-rated golf courses, and the sparkling waters of nearby Lake Pleasant, the options for getting out and bonding with...

Food + Beverage

Women in Hospitality

Some of the Incredible Women Leading the West Valley Culinary Scene Article by Susan Lanier-Graham The food scene in the West Valley is rapidly changing, and some incredible women are leading that evolution, thriving in the demanding hospitality industry.  As Jennifer Garrett, General Manager of North Italia in Peoria, says, “It’s an industry that expects you to care deeply and give your all, whether a guest is celebrating a milestone or finding solace after a loss.”  Each of these six...

Arts + Culture

Shari Rowe's Homecoming

The Country Music Artist Returns Home to Arizona and Embraces the West Valley Article by Sydnee Wilson | Photography by Shari Rowe Southwestern songstress Shari Rowe has always been drawn to wide open spaces and the feeling of freedom in her life and music. The Arizona native has traveled the world with her magnetic melodies and vibrant storytelling, but the Wild West always ropes her back in, no matter how far she's gone. Rowe recently traded the wild nights and city lights in Nashville...