For nearly half a century, the London Bridge Days Parade has been a beloved tradition in Lake Havasu City, celebrating the town’s vibrant community spirit. Year after year, local bands and colorful floats light up McCulloch Boulevard, creating a joyous occasion for residents and visitors alike. In 2024, this cherished event enters an exciting new chapter as ILOVE Lake Havasu, a passionate nonprofit, joins longtime organizer Jim Day in continuing its legacy. With fresh ideas and renewed energy, they are committed to preserving the magic of one of the city’s most treasured traditions while celebrating its bright future.
Jim Day has been at the heart of London Bridge Days since taking over the event in 1996. Reflecting on his involvement, Jim recalls, “The event started with the dedication of the London Bridge in 1971. Initially, the McCulloch Corp hosted it, and later, the Chamber of Commerce took the reins. But by the mid-1990s, they decided to move on, and that’s when I stepped in, right around the 25th anniversary.”
Over the years, Jim Day has seen Lake Havasu grow from a small town with limited distractions into a bustling city with many competing events. “There was less competition for people’s time back then,” Jim said, recalling fondly how hundreds of residents would gather under the bridge for various evening festivities. But despite these changes, the parade itself has remained a constant, anchoring the community with a tradition that brings out the best in Havasu. “For several years, we had upwards of 90 entries. It’s smaller now, but there’s still a lot of interest, and people love a parade,” he added.
After 28 years of overseeing the event, Jim felt it was time for new leadership. “Our town has grown, and times have changed. Many early days’ activities lost leadership, importance, and support from the community. It was clear that someone else needed to lead the event—someone with new ideas and youthful energy,” Jim said. That’s when ILOVE Lake Havasu stepped in.
Founded on a mission to unite the community through local events, ILOVE Lake Havasu seemed like the perfect successor to carry on the parade’s legacy. “I met with them, and they said YES! I’m happy to share my knowledge and history—I just don’t need to be in charge anymore,” Jim remarked with a sense of fulfillment.
This year’s parade theme, “Celebrating American Patriots,” comes at a particularly poignant time. With tensions running high during a heated election season, the parade aims to serve as a reminder that despite our political differences, we can all rally around our shared history and the American ideals that bind us together. Regardless of where you fall on the issues, the London Bridge Days Parade celebrates the amazing men and women patriots who have shaped our nation’s history. It’s a chance to set aside divisive conversations and take pride in the values and resilience that unite us as a country.
Each float will pay tribute to a significant American figure, reflecting both the patriotic roots of Lake Havasu and the city’s commitment to honoring the past while looking toward the future. “Supporting these kinds of events will help us keep the values and traditions that make Havasu what it is,” Jim noted.
While the parade may be changing hands, Jim Day’s legacy and the impact of his leadership will forever be felt in the streets of Lake Havasu. As he reflects on his time at the helm, Jim expressed his gratitude for the community that has supported him and the event for so many years. “This is a good place to live and raise a family. I’m thrilled that ILOVE Lake Havasu is willing to promote London Bridge Days moving forward.”
Lake Havasu City, July 28, 2024 – The ovens were hot, the dough was rising, and the competition was fierce at the 1st Annual Sourdough Bake-Off held on July 28th. With 24 mouthwatering submissions and a spirited judging session at noon, this inaugural event not only showcased the best in sourdough baking but also raised a fantastic $480 for Lake Havasu’s Food Bank!
Judging was a tough task for our esteemed panel: Shawn Lawless of I Love LHC, Melanie Preston of Havashire Festivals, and Dawn Hansen from Mohave Mortgage. Along with a business backing from Sean and Tara Watkins. After a thorough tasting, the judges crowned the winners across seven exciting categories:
Best Ear: Carley Iasparro
Best Traditional Sourdough: Ian Andrews
Best Classic Sourdough: Carley Iasparro
Best In Show: Carley Iasparro
Best Specialty: Desert Doe Bakery
Best Design: Desert Doe Bakery
Congratulations to Carley Iasparro for an outstanding performance, clinching three top honors: Best Ear, Best Classic, and Best In Show. Kudos also to Ian Andrews for his exceptional traditional sourdough, and a big shout out to Desert Doe Bakery for winning Best Specialty and Best Design.
A heartfelt thank you to all participants for your incredible baking skills and generosity. Your delicious sourdough creations not only delighted our taste buds but also contributed to a great cause, helping to support those in need in our community.
We look forward to seeing you all next year for more baking fun and to continue our tradition of giving back. Stay tuned for details on the 2nd Annual Sourdough Bake-Off!
Lake Havasu City, July 28, 2024 – The air was filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked sourdough as the 1st Annual Sourdough Bake-Off, organized by I LOVE Lake Havasu, kicked off with palpable excitement and a promise of unforgettable flavors. Among the 24 tantalizing entries, it was Carley Iasparro who truly stole the show, winning three coveted awards: Best Ear, Best Classic, and Best In Show. Her extraordinary achievements not only showcased her exceptional baking skills but also made her the star of this inaugural event, which raised an impressive $480 for Lake Havasu’s Food Bank.
“I am still shocked that I won 3 different categories, including Best In Show!” Carley exclaimed, her excitement palpable. “I truly cannot express enough gratitude! Hearing positive feedback from my customers and family is wonderful, but to win the whole sourdough competition is just amazing and so rewarding.”
Carley, a dedicated mother of two and wife, attributed her success to her heartfelt baking process. “There was nothing I did differently for the competition than what I do for my customers. I just baked my loaves with passion, love, and prayer.”
Her meticulous approach to sourdough is as impressive as her results. “My process takes 4 days from start to finish,” Carley explained. “I feel that this long process gives my loaves extra flavor and health benefits from the extended fermentation. I also took the week before the competition to get my starter nice and healthy.”
Despite battling self-doubt and nerves, Carley’s perseverance and family support carried her through. “My husband reminded me to stick to what I know, and prayer helped calm my anxiety,” she shared. She offers this advice to future sourdough bakers: “Whether you’re a home baker, cottage baker, or bakery owner, I encourage you to enter the competition. Embrace it as a learning experience and don’t let doubts hold you back. You might be surprised by what you can achieve!”
The highlight of the day for Carley was the moment when the winners were announced. “Waiting for the results was nerve-wracking. When I first saw that I won Best Ear, I was thrilled but hoped my bread would be recognized for its quality too. Seeing my name for Best Classic was exhilarating, and when they announced Best In Show, I couldn’t believe it! We were all jumping up and down. It was a memory I will never forget.”
You can catch Carley at her regular pop-up events at the Small Business Event, held on the third Saturday of every month at The Kaws from 9 AM to 1 PM. She also appears at Havasu Olive and Garlic Company and offers porch pickups occasionally. Stay up-to-date with her latest events and delicious offerings by following her on Instagram at @mamassourdoughlhc. Her next event is the Small Business Event on August 17th, but be sure to arrive early as her sourdough sells out fast!
Get ready to laugh and support a great cause at the Tin Can Comedy Food Drives. Hosted by Mohave Comedy at the Lighthouse Lounge in Lake Havasu City, these events turn comedy into community support.
The first show kicks off on August 6th at 7:30 PM, and the fun continues on September 3rd. Headlining the night is Jose Raymond, a comedian from Watts, CA, now living in Maui. Although he faced the tragedy of losing everything in the Lahaina Fires of 2023, he turned his experience into comedy gold with his “Above the Ashes” specials. Additionally, Brandon Saurer and Travis Tapleshay from LA will perform, along with local comedians, bringing more laughter to the audience.
To join the fun, all you need to do is bring two non-perishable food items per person. These donations will go directly to the Havasu Community Health Foundation, supporting those in need. While you enjoy the comedy, you can also take advantage of drink and food specials, making the night even more enjoyable.
Mohave Comedy, founded by Anthony Mitchell, started as a small comedy group in Mohave County. Over time, it has grown into a lively scene that supports many causes, including children’s hospitals and local food drives. Their monthly shows at the Lighthouse Lounge are about more than just jokes; they’re also about giving back to the community. Moreover, an ASL interpreter will be present, ensuring everyone can enjoy the show.
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a great night while helping the community. For more information on performers and upcoming events, visit www.mohavecomedy.com. So, get ready to laugh, donate, and be part of something special at the Tin Can Comedy Food Drives!
Lake Havasu City, AZ — Michael and Nissa Harris, long-time residents of Lake Havasu City, are delighted to announce the launch of their newest venture, The Sweet Spot Freeze Dried Treats. This family-owned business, deeply rooted in the local community, is already making waves with its innovative and delicious freeze-dried confections.
Michael Harris, who moved to Lake Havasu City in 1978, and Nissa, who made the city her home in 1993, have long been cherished members of the community. Their shared love story, nurtured by the city’s unique charm, has now blossomed into a business that reflects their passion and dedication to giving back.
“We’ve always wanted to give back to the place that has given us so much,” says Nissa Harris. “The Sweet Spot is our way of doing that while indulging our love for sweet treats.”
The Sweet Spot Freeze Dried Treats offers a delightful array of products that transform familiar candies into something extraordinary. With popular items like Rainbow Drops and Jolly Puffs, their treats are crafted through a meticulous freeze-drying process that removes moisture while intensifying flavors, resulting in irresistible textures that are crispy, crunchy, and light as air.
“Our process is all about perfection,” says Michael Harris, who prides himself on the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every batch of treats.
But The Sweet Spot is more than just about creating delectable products. Michael and Nissa are deeply committed to their community. They regularly participate in local events, sponsor youth sports, and host charity raffles, with proceeds going to support local organizations. As they prepare for upcoming community events, they invite everyone to spin their “Wheel of Deals” and sample their latest treats, all while supporting a good cause.
“Supporting activities and organizations that value our community’s kids is a great feeling,” adds Michael Harris.
The Sweet Spot Freeze Dried Treats has quickly become a beloved part of Lake Havasu’s community fabric. Customers can order online at thesweetspottreats.com, with delivery options available. Their products are also available locally at Campbell Cove 1 Stop and London Bridge Ice Cream, located under the iconic bridge.
Contact: The Sweet Spot Freeze Dried Treats Michael & Nissa Harris Website Email: info@thesweetspottreats.com Lake Havasu City, AZ
Lake Havasu City, AZ –As David Lane prepares to retire from a remarkable career in public service, Lake Havasu City reflects on his profound impact and enduring legacy. Lane’s distinguished journey began with a noble tenure in the United States Air Force, followed by a commendable 30-year career with the California Highway Patrol (CHP). His dedication and leadership have been exemplary throughout his career. “From the time I was a teenager, I knew I wanted to be a California Highway Patrol Officer,” Lane recalls. His ascent through the CHP, culminating in several high-ranking positions, has equipped him with the skills and insights that shaped his significant contributions to our community.
In 2008, Mr. Lane took on the role of Commander of the CHP Needles Area Office, an appointment that unexpectedly brought him and his wife, Stephanie, to the scenic shores of Lake Havasu City. What began as a temporary assignment quickly turned into a deep and lasting love for the area. “We fell in love with Lake Havasu, so I retired, and we decided to make it our permanent home.” The Lanes have deeply immersed themselves in the community, becoming a driving force behind one of the city’s most active neighborhood watch groups and passionately supporting numerous local initiatives.
Mr. Lane’s leadership has been pivotal in endeavors such as the establishment of new soccer fields at Cypress Park and the cultivation of significant alliances with local institutions, including the Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau, and United Way. These partnerships were crucial during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling Mr. Lane to raise over $360,000 in aid for the community. “We were able to help countless residents and businesses avoid financial ruin.” His exceptional contributions were further recognized when he was honored with the Citizen of the Year award from the Chamber of Commerce.
As Mr. Lane transitions from a lifetime of dedicated public service to the well-earned rest of retirement, he reflects on his achievements with both pride and optimism. “The city is in good hands,” he confidently assures. Looking ahead, Mr. Lane and his wife, Stephanie, are excited to embark on new adventures and cherish family time. “After years of taking care of others, it’s finally our turn to explore the world together,” he shares with a warm smile.
David Lane’s unwavering commitment to the community and his legacy of leadership and generosity have set a high standard for future council members.
The desert landscape of Mohave County, Arizona, might not seem like the most obvious birthplace for a thriving comedic scene, but thanks to the vision and determination of a few passionate individuals, it’s become just that. Anthony Mitchell, the founder of Mohave Comedy, moved to Mohave County as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist in 2020. With no local comedic scene, he started by crashing open mics in Laughlin and Bullhead City. Anthony describes the formation of Mohave Comedy as a “Bat Signal” to find like-minded comedy enthusiasts in the area. This Bat Signal worked wonders, attracting a diverse group of comedians and building a larger, more cohesive comedy community.
Over the years, they’ve performed in towns across the area, from Topock to Chloride, and supported numerous fundraising events for causes like the Oatman and Chloride Chamber of Commerce, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, and local food drives with their Tin Can Comedy shows.
Lighthouse Lounge: The Heart of Mohave Comedy
The Lighthouse Lounge holds a special place in the heart of Mohave Comedy. It was the site of their first-ever show, and returning there to perform four years later has been an “awesomely surreal experience,” says Anthony. Mohave Comedy now hosts stand-up events on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 PM at the Lighthouse Lounge, featuring special guests from LA, Vegas, and Phoenix. These events also include food drives for the Havasu Community Health Foundation.
Making Comedy Accessible for All
In addition to their community involvement and charitable efforts, Mohave Comedy is dedicated to making their shows accessible to everyone. They proudly feature an amazing ASL interpreter, Destiny Younger, at all their shows to ensure that everyone can enjoy the humor and fun.
A Comedic Scene Built on Humor, Community, and Charity
With their blend of humor, community involvement, and charitable efforts, Mohave Comedy has truly made a mark on the local culture. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, catching a Mohave Comedy show is a must. For more information on their performers, events, and charity efforts, visit their website at www.mohavecomedy.com. Get ready to laugh, connect, and support a fantastic cause with Mohave Comedy!
Meet the Mohave Comedy Crew
Mohave Comedy’s strength lies in its diverse group of performers, each bringing a unique style and perspective to the stage. Here’s a look at some of the regulars you’ll see at their shows:
Anthony Mitchell Originally from west Texas, Anthony has performed stand-up in Micronesia and Hawaii. He was a featured performer at the Jest Another Comedy Festival in Flagstaff and a regular at the L.A. Comedy Club in Laughlin, NV. Anthony even had the prestigious opportunity to open for Ben Bailey from the television show “Cash Cab.”
Hank Hilbert A transplant from Chicago, where he lived for 16 years before relocating to Lake Havasu City, Hank has trained on theater stages and studied at the famous Second City. He has opened shows with SoAz Production’s events in Havasu and made appearances at The Comedy Chateau in LA and Stir Crazy Comedy Club in Phoenix.
Sean Perry Clever and joke-heavy, Sean hails from Lake Havasu City. His evenly measured and calculated delivery excels in touching upon the darker subjects of life, making him a unique voice in the local comedic scene.
Austin Farrell Growing up in Lake Havasu City, Austin is a gifted storyteller behind the mic. His style delights in the awkward and embraces the embarrassing moments found in everyday life, making his performances relatable and hilarious.
Ryan Kohn Originally from the Portland, Oregon area, Ryan relocated to Bullhead City and has been performing stand-up for half a decade. His personable stage presence and fierce skill behind the mic have quickly made him one of the Mohave’s most popular comedians.
Curious to know the team behind our success? Here are the A-Team team members. Thanks to them we are able to do what we love most, tell your story!
Filomena (Meena) Roberts
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: Licensed for about a year
Background: Used to own a furniture store; also an art teacher at Calvary Christian School
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 6 years
Personal & Interests: Married with children; husband in law enforcement; enjoys boating, jet skiing, and visiting Burgers by the Bridge Team impact on community: values giving back through drives, and other initiatives.
Meena Roberts, a dedicated sales agent, has been licensed for about a year. She is also an art teacher at local Calvary Christian School. A resident of Lake Havasu City for six years, Meena enjoys family life with her husband, who is in law enforcement, and their children. Her favorite pastimes include boating, jet skiing, and dining at Burgers by the Bridge. Through various drives and community initiatives, Meena values giving back and enhancing the quality of life in Lake Havasu City.
Cindy Dionne
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: With A Team since day one
Background: Lifelong sales professional; involved in youth programs and mentoring through the London Bridge Rotary Club
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 37 years
Personal & Interests: Enjoys boating, desert activities, and supporting local restaurants; raised children in the area. She loves how passionate about community involvement the A team is. She is able to be a mentor and see that the A team is appreciated by local dedicated professionals and volunteers.
A founding member of the A Team, Cindy Dionne brings a lifetime of sales experience to her role as a sales agent. Having lived in Lake Havasu City for 37 years, Cindy is deeply involved in youth programs and mentoring through the London Bridge Rotary Club. She enjoys boating, desert activities, and supporting local restaurants while raising her children in the area. Cindy’s passion for community involvement is mirrored by the A Team’s dedication to local initiatives, making her a proud mentor and advocate for the team’s impact.
Amy King
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: Over 5 years with A Team
Background: Originally from California; involved in local events and family support initiatives
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 17 years
Personal & Interests: Enjoys boating, off-roading (side by side), and dining at local Mexican restaurants; loves a good flaming margarita. Supports her daughter’s involvement in Lake Havasu Racing. Amy is leading I Love Lake Havasu Racing. Believes the A team makes a large impact in providing support for mothers and children, and families in need.
With over five years of experience on the A Team, Amy King has made a significant mark as a sales agent. Originally from California, Amy has lived in Lake Havasu City for 17 years. She enjoys boating, off-roading, and savoring local Mexican cuisine, particularly flaming margaritas. As a leader of I Love Lake Havasu Racing, she supports her daughter’s racing pursuits and believes the A Team makes a substantial impact by providing support for mothers, children, and families in need.
Tami Decker
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: 2 years with A Team
Background: Worked at London Bridge Resort for 10 years
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 15 years
Personal & Interests: Enjoys family lake outings; Has a huge family here in Lake Havasu City. Notes that the A team values education and sports for kids who inspires her community involvement. Says the A team is passionate about providing sports and educational programs for youth in the community.
Tami Decker has been a sales agent with the A Team for two years, following a decade-long tenure at London Bridge Resort. A resident of Lake Havasu City for 15 years, Tami enjoys family outings on the lake and values the community’s strong educational and sports programs for youth. Inspired by the A Team’s passion for these causes, she actively participates in efforts to enhance opportunities for local children.
Melanie Block
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: One year
Background: President-elect of Women’s Council of Realtors for Havasu area; active in fighting legislation.
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 3 years
Personal & Interests: Sings at Mount Olive Church and volunteers singing and karaoke at Prestige Senior Living; enjoys dining at Barely Brothers and Shugrue’s. She believes in A Team’s impactful community support, specifically that they help their clients who are facing foreclosures keep their homes and find investors.
Melanie Block, a sales agent for one year, serves as the president-elect of the Women’s Council of Realtors for the Havasu area. Active in legislative advocacy, Melanie has lived in Lake Havasu City for three years. She enjoys singing at Mount Olive Church, volunteering at Prestige Senior Living, and dining at local favorites like Barley Brothers and Shugrue’s. Melanie appreciates the A Team’s dedication to helping clients facing foreclosure and securing investment opportunities, reflecting the team’s impactful community support, always going above and beyond for clients.
April Young
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: One year
Background: New to real estate
Personal & Interests: Loves boating, off-roading, jet skiing, and live music; enjoys visiting Martini Bay and Chabones. appreciates A Team’s support for education and the community.
New to real estate and with the A Team for one year, April Young loves the vibrant lifestyle of Lake Havasu City. She enjoys boating, off-roading, jet skiing, and live music, frequently visiting Martini Bay and Chabones. April values the A Team’s commitment to education and community support, appreciating the positive difference they make in the lives of local residents.
Dan Coonis
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: Over 6 years with A Team
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 19 years
Personal & Interests: Enthusiastic about boating, car shows, and desert storms. enjoys ocean activities and trade shows Involved in volunteering and donations with the A team to make a community impact.
Dan Coonis has over six years of experience as a sales agent with the A Team. A 19-year resident of Lake Havasu City, Dan is passionate about boating, car shows, and desert storms, also enjoying ocean activities and trade shows. His involvement in volunteering and donations through the A Team underscores his dedication to making a positive community impact.
Holy Skelton
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: 10 years with A-Team
Background: Involved in Grace Art Theatres and has two daughters in the theater; originally from Kansas City
Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 28 years
Personal & Interests: Enjoys teaching and community theater; favors Dolce restaurant. She appreciates Chad’s (team leader) willingness to help clients and families with moving in and out of their homes with his own personal trailer, and sees the impact the team has by donating to charities.
Holly Skelton has been with the A-Team for 10 years, deeply involved in Grace Arts Theatre and supporting her two daughters’ theater interests. Originally from Kansas City, Holly has lived in Lake Havasu City for 28 years. She enjoys teaching and community theater, and dining at Dolce restaurant. Holly appreciates the team’s leader, Chad, for his hands-on support for clients moving homes and the team’s charitable donations, highlighting the A-Team’s community-focused spirit.
Scott Carroll
Role: Sales Agent
Experience: New to the team (2 weeks)
Background: Long-time resident since 1979
Personal & Interests: Enjoys fishing, working on cars, and spending time with family; supports EMTs, nurses, and law enforcement; enjoys dining at El Mariachi and Angelinias, and breakfast at Northside Grill; active in the Buses by Bridge and Rods and Relics communities. Loves seeing the positive impact the A-Team has on the community and always going above and beyond for clients and family support services.
Scott Carroll, a new addition to the A-Team, has been a long-time resident of Lake Havasu City since 1979. He enjoys fishing, working on cars, and family time, supporting EMTs, nurses, and law enforcement. Scott is also a licensed captain and can most often be found spending time out on the ocean. Scott frequents local eateries like El Mariachi, Angelinas, and Northside Grill and is active in the Buses by Bridge and Rods and Relics communities. He admires the A Team’s dedication to client support and community services, enhancing the well-being of Lake Havasu residents. Specifically protecting underprivileged families, and providing resources for women and children who need it.
Personal & Interests: Prefers home life but enjoys being on the water and jeeping in the desert; loves BBQing. Had no comment on community involvement.
As an admin with the A-Team for a few months, Brittni Lares has lived in Lake Havasu City for four years. She enjoys a quieter home life but loves being on the water and jeeping in the desert, especially barbequing.
