Life + Culture

Music Man

Rick Dejesus has chased music all his life. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Jenny Kaufman and Kaeden Peterson "I'm going to make music." Rick DeJesus, lead singer/songwriter of the band Adelita's Way, told himself at 19 years old. He dropped out of college, left his hometown of Philadelphia, and drove all the way to Los Angeles. Despite the risk, it was not so much a choice for him as a calling. 'I was always consumed by music... music made me feel nothing is impossible,' he says...

Auto + Marine

Mufflers and More

Trusted and quality care for your car. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Jenny Kaufman A car's sleek lines, shiny hubcaps, and lush interior may be what first catches everyone's eye. Meanwhile, what lies beneath the hood, or even the under carriage may be thought of as less glamorous. However, when a car begins to run into trouble, the health of your vehicle cannot be taken for granted. At Mufflers N' More they have been seeing to their customer's car since 2020. In addition to auto...

Food + Beverage

Smokin' Hot

East Valley Firewood fires up some delicious smoked meats. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Jenny Kaufman Dave Havermann throws in another piece of pecan firewood into the smoker. The aromatic scent of the wood floats in the air and reminds you of a comforting camp fire. Dave is the owner of East Valley Firewood which sells a variety of firewood from mesquite, to mulberry, pistachio, olive, and more. Inside the smoker, Dave grilled some salmon, pork, and beef ribs. The firewood...

Fitness

Raising the Bar

Aaron Sanchez found a second chance through fitness. Article by Florence Daniels | Photography by Jenny Kaufman As Aaron Sanchez, lists out the health issues and the years spent drinking, what strikes a listener the most, is how open Aaron confronts his difficult past. He is not without appreciation for his journey, nor is his tone dismissive. Instead, he bears a lightness that comes with living in honesty and having overcome the darkest period of his life. The moment his habits caught up with...