Former Twins Player Takes Over East Valley Magazine

Mesa City Lifestyle operates as a free monthly magazine focused on the East Valley, and it has new leadership. Brett Merriman became the owner and publisher in October 2026. He replaces the previous management team to guide the publication's next phase of growth.

Merriman brings a long career in professional sports and business to the role. He played professional baseball for approximately eight years, which included a stint in the major leagues with the Minnesota Twins. Following his athletic career, he spent more than 25 years developing enterprises. This period included founding and operating Big League Insurance before he transitioned into technology sales. He cited a desire to return to entrepreneurship and build local relationships as his primary motivation for the acquisition.

The magazine launched toward the end of 2024. It is part of City Lifestyle, a national network of community publications. This affiliation provides the local brand with national resources while keeping content specific to Mesa. The publication positions itself as a luxury item, using high-quality photography and print to encourage readers to keep issues on their coffee tables. The content strategy relies on exclusively positive and local stories about entrepreneurs and neighbors.

The company has expanded its services beyond print. It now offers targeted advertising campaigns on Facebook and Instagram. This digital component allows local partners to reach customers on their phones while maintaining a physical presence in homes. Merriman stated that the goal is to tell the story behind each business rather than simply placing ads. The publication aims to treat advertisers as partners in the community conversation.

Merriman has joined the Mesa Chamber of Commerce to deepen these connections. He plans to attend events and support other members to help their businesses gain visibility. As an introductory offer to Chamber members, he is providing free upgrades to the next advertising tier. This tier includes options such as Free Editorials, City Scenes, Business Monthly, and Events. Businesses that commit to a combined print and digital package will receive deep discounts and one month of service at no cost.

The editorial team includes Ashleigh Underwood, who serves as the editor. The company outlines its operating principles around five core values. These include community first, positivity, relationships over transactions, quality, and integrity. Merriman emphasized that the publication's success depends on making Mesa more connected by celebrating what is working in the city.

The new ownership structure is in place as of October 2026. The magazine continues its monthly release schedule. It remains a member of the City Lifestyle national family while operating independently in the local market. The focus remains on producing a premium print product and delivering targeted digital ads to local businesses.