A-Team Team Members – Thanks to whom we can do what we’re doing right now: TELL YOUR STORY

A-Team

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.

Brittni Lares

  • Role: Admin
  • Experience: A couple of months with A-Team
  • Residence: Lived in Lake Havasu for 4 years
  • 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.

A-Team

Exploring Lake Havasu’s Ecology: Kids’ Educational Boat Ride Aboard the Dixie Belle, Supported by Supercat Fest West

On a sunny morning at Lake Havasu on April 20th, children’s laughter filled the air as they took their first boat ride on the Dixie Belle. This memorable experience was made possible by Supercat Fest West, which sponsored the event to support Kids on the Colorado’s educational program. The initiative aims to teach local children about the lake’s ecology and history.

Excitement was clear among the young participants. “I’ve got kids asking questions, getting involved, and interacting,” said Dan Delasantos, president of Kids on the Colorado River. He noted surprising gaps in the children’s knowledge, which these programs aim to address. “We created the programs because we found out the kids didn’t know California is on the other side of the river, and they didn’t know that it was a reservation. They’ve never been on the water before, even though they were born and raised here.”

Community Support and Collaboration for the Kids

Thanks to sponsors like Supercat Fest West, children of Lake Havasu experienced the lake’s waters, sparking their curiosity and connection to the environment. The 9 am tour was designed for children with special needs, offering a safe and enriching outing. In contrast, the 1 pm tour was open to the general public. The Riviera provided safe docking and anchoring, while the Lake Havasu Boat Patrol ensured smooth sailing throughout.

Board member Jeanette Nangreeves volunteered at the event as a way to thank Supercat Fest West. “The sponsorship and support allowed us to expand and reach more kids,” she said. Reaching out to underprivileged youth in the community is essential, as many might not otherwise have these opportunities.

Looking Ahead: Community Day at Lake Havasu City Aquatic Center

Looking ahead, the Lake Havasu City Aquatic Center will host a Community Day on May 5. This event will offer children engaging activities for both summer and the school year. Local families are encouraged to attend, and businesses and nonprofits that serve youth are invited to collaborate with Kids on the Colorado for this special day.

Local Stevie Welte Qualifies to Represent the USA this year at the BMX World Championships 

At just 12 years old, Lake Havasu’s own Stevie Welte has secured a spot to represent the USA at this year’s BMX World Championships. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring. Despite her young age, Stevie has already etched her name in the annals of BMX history. By doing so, she is showcasing exceptional talent while balancing the demands of school, growing up, and her racing career.

Stevie’s journey into BMX racing

Stevie’s journey into BMX racing began riding a balance bike as young as two and a half years old. Then she graduating to a pedal bike by three and a half. Since then, her passion for the sport has only grown. Despite facing the obstacle of being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 7, Stevie has soared in the BMX world. She’s a four-time Arizona state champion, consistently placing in the top 10 in her district. Now, she’s earned her spot among the best in the world. Stevie’s next ambitious goal is to one day grace the Olympic stage.

Her father, Scott, reflects on Stevie’s journey with pride. He says, “We’re very proud of her for her dedication, whether it’s school or her cycling, when she gets her mind on something and has a goal she goes for it.”

Stevie’s path to success hasn’t been without challenges.. “Being a type 1 diabetic has been my biggest challenge,” she admits. “It’s tough because you have to balance your blood sugar when you’re racing, and it affects my performance.” Yet, Stevie’s determination shines through.  

She trains rigorously, riding over 10 miles three times a week. All the while, she prioritizes her education and maintains her spot on the honor roll at Calvary Christian Academy. Her advice to aspiring riders reflects her fearless attitude: “Try it. Don’t be scared too. Just be confident and tell yourself that you can do it, and don’t tell yourself, oh this is too hard or only the boys do it.” 

Stevie’s Support System

Behind Stevie’s success lies a network of support from her family, friends, and sponsors. From Fly racing, Good Team Bad Name (GTBN), ODI grips, Maxxis Tires, Cycle Therapy, Hero Ride Shop, and Beat the Heat, these sponsors have helped fuel her journey to the top. The community of Lake Havasu has rallied around her, with locals donating to fund her trip to the World Championships. 

As Stevie prepares to compete on the world stage, she carries with her not just the hopes of her town, but the dreams of a young girl who refused to let anything hold her back. From balancing her love of sport, school, and managing her diabetes, Stevie’s story is one of resilience. It’s also about determination and the power of chasing your dreams, no matter how big they may seem.

A Journey through the Lake Havasu City Renaissance Fair

The Lake Havasu City Renaissance Fair celebrates tradition and joy–drawing visitors from distant lands to experience its ageless charm. One cannot help but be enchanted by the palpable sense of camaraderie and joy that permeates the fairgrounds. Conversations with guests and families reveal a unanimous appreciation for the event’s inclusive atmosphere, where “societal norms are cast aside, and individuals get to embrace their true selves.” Everyone finds solace in allowing their inner child to run wild here, amid the fairgrounds, free from criticism or restraint.

Fair
Vendor Brian

From the thunderous spectacle of jousts to the mesmerizing artistry of juggling acts, from the precision of archery contests to the infectious energy of live entertainment, the fair offers an abundance of delights to enchant every soul. In addition to the myriad attractions, the fair tantalizes the taste buds with a diverse array of culinary delights. From hearty turkey legs to savory pies, and refreshing beverages to quench any thirst. Each attraction serves as a testament to the organizer Melinie Preston’s commitment to providing magical experiences that transport attendees to an era of merriment and laughter.

Fair
Fire show during the Fantasy Feast Masquerade Ball

When speaking among the vendors who grace the fair with their presence, such as Brain the Nomad emerges as a devoted supporter of the event’s magnetic charm. Having traversed the West Coast from Washington to Nevada, he expresses a profound affinity for Lake Havasu‘s
community, noting, “energetically, the people here are much different.” This sentiment underscores the unique vibrancy and warmth that permeate the air, drawing vendors and visitors alike to bask in Lake Havasu’s warm community. Additionally, other vendors praise the area’s amazing natural beauty as a “compelling reason for their recurring pilgrimage to this cherished
event.”

The Lake Havasu City Renaissance Faire transcends mere entertainment; it is a
celebration of unity, acceptance, and the enduring spirit of revelry and this community. As
attendees bid farewell to another unforgettable gathering, they carry with them cherished
memories and a renewed sense of kinship–eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this timeless
the saga of enchantment and wonder.

“Knights of mayhem joust  participants”

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) by Kryistyna Hook

Lake Havasu City would not be the place it is today without the spectacular businesses that help attract visitors from across the country. For those businesses to continue succeeding and building trust with their customers, they need the assistance of Kryistyna Hook and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).  

Kryistyna’s Background 

Kryistyna Hook is the Director of Media Relations for the BBB and assists our local community of businesses to be the best they can be. Before coming into her role at the BBB, Kryistyna graduated from  Cal State Long Beach with a degree in health administration. While completing her degree, a required course in marketing persuaded her to add a minor in marketing to her academic journey. After school,  she pursued jobs in marketing and public relations, where she spent time advocating for businesses and building trust with them. 

Outside of work, Kryistyna enjoys her life in our beautiful town with her husband and son traveling for her son’s travel soccer club. When she isn’t spending time with her family, she enjoys doing yoga sessions to keep her mind clear. Kryistyna also loves the food scene in Lake Havasu City by visiting local food trucks and restaurants. An event that she loves attending is First Friday, where she admires businesses and the community collaborating to support each other and grow. She also enjoys the time that she has spent on the board of directors for the Chamber and River Cities United Way. 

Director of Media Relations BBB

In her role with the BBB, Kryistyna is passionate about encouraging businesses to be ethical and sharing resources that they might need to be successful. “The BBB is a champion for ethics and doing the right thing in the community. I love sharing that with our community. We have been around for over a  hundred years but are shifting to help businesses be better and offer them the tools to do so. A lot of  people aren’t aware of that, so I love educating them about it and then connecting entrepreneurs and small  businesses to help them thrive.” 

A major way that the BBB helps businesses succeed is by offering accreditation if businesses follow a set of standards that include objectives like doing the right thing, having a business license, honest advertising, and consumer transparency. Some ways that you can count on the BBB to contribute to the community are by advancing ethics, prioritizing community impact, celebrating role models, connecting businesses, creating confident consumers, and instilling ethics in youth. The BBB also offers free education for starting a business the right way, high school scholarships based on essays discussing ethical dilemmas, a BBB4Good program that promotes business giving back, and 0% interest business loans and funding which had a major impact on our local businesses during COVID. 

What’s Next for Kryistyna? 

Coming up, Kryistyna and the BBB are preparing for the annual HavaStartup Business Competition. The event is organized by ASU at Lake Havasu with the Chamber Foundation for Education and Leadership and the BBB is taking place. The competition allows a resident from Lake Havasu City to submit a  business plan and compete to win a cash prize to support startup costs. Applications are now open, and the deadline is Friday, January 24th of this upcoming year. 

On January 23rd, Kryistyna and the BBB are also hosting the BBB + Empower by GoDaddy Main St.  Accelerator learning session taking place at Nomadic in Lake Havasu City. This session is intended for small businesses to learn about the 8-week program, thrive, and get resources.  

For more information about the BBB and its programs, visit The Better Business Bureau website

Perfection 2 Detail by Patty MacMonagle

Perfection 2 detail

In Lake Havasu City, Perfection 2 Detail offers a lot more to the community than its detailing services. Patty MacMonagle owns and runs Perfection 2 Detail, which has been open since November 2022. 

Patty’s Background

Before opening her own detail shop, Patty spent years in the detailing business and realized it was time to start her own path. At 53 years old, she started a challenge she was willing to accept, opening her own business. When asked what the best part about her business, Patty stated, “I love my customers. They are a lot more than that to me. They are my family and I enjoy the relationships we create from doing business together.” From the ages of 7 to 50, Patty raced BMX bicycles, even riding for Team USA. During her BMX career, she learned lessons that would help her with her new business. “It taught me discipline, structure, and all kinds of things that have been essential to owning my own business.”

Outside of business, Patty enjoys the time she spends with her Fiancé, Chuck Mcknight, and her blended family. Patty and Chuck recently got engaged over the holidays in Central Park, New York, on Christmas Eve. Together, they enjoy their 6 kids Ryan, Alexa, Madison, Tanner, Megan, and Alyssa and 3 grandchildren. Patty and Chuck expect a busy year as they have plans to get married in November, 3 daughters who are recently engaged, and another grandchild on the way in May.

Perfection 2 Detail

Perfection 2 Detail offers tons of detailing services, and more beyond that. They offer washes, mini and full details, and ceramic coating on just about any vehicle. “We do cars, trucks, boats, side by sides, RVs, boats, and golf carts. Our philosophy is that if it rolls or floats, we do it all.”

Beyond detailing, they also offer vehicle pickup and delivery concierge, fueling, cooler loading, and launching and retrieving. As you wait for your details to be completed, you can lounge or work in their spectacular lounge. “We have Perfection 2 Detail merchandise, AO coolers, DSO sunglasses, Nauti Shine products, snacks, TVs, and games and coloring books for the kids. “Family is so important to me, and I want everyone that comes in here or walks by us to feel welcome.” Patty also wants the community to know that if you are by her business on the island, it is a safe space to stop by and relax.

Community Connections

The local charity is extremely important to Patty, as she is involved in the Hav-A-Sis women empowerment organization, HAVAdopt Children’s Christmas Project, and giving to local unhoused veterans. This past Christmas, her detail shop hosted the HAVAdopt Children’s Christmas Project that had 168 recipients. Recently, unhoused veterans in Lake Havasu City have also been able to pick up items from her shop and Perfection 2 Detail has officially become a 365-day drop off location for donations. 

Perfection 2 Detail is also closely involved with Lake Havasu City regattas as they frequently donate to events for boats and side by sides. In the past year, Patty’s shop sponsored the DCB and Carrera boat regattas. 

As a result of her community involvement, Patty was nominated for the Heroes in Heels Award on February 7th. 

For more information on Perfection 2 Detail and the services they offer, visit perfection2detail.com  

AZ Party Express by Pedro Espinosa

AZ Party Express

In a town that’s known for a good time, you might need the contact of the biggest event rental business in the Tri-state area. Pedro Espinosa owns and runs AZ Party Express to make all your dreams come true. 

About Pedro 

Pedro acquired AZ Party Express in 2020, adding it to his portfolio of businesses. He also owns Saleen Fiberglass Restorations (Saleen FR) and the HTM boat company. Pedro is enjoying the different experiences with his new business. “It’s awesome to see how events touch people’s lives and I take pride in throwing the best event possible.” 

At home, Pedro enjoys spending time with his 2 children, Allison and Logan, his mother, Blanca, and his father, Pedro Sr. “I enjoy kids’ birthday parties a little extra because I have my own. My family is so important to me, and I am honored to be a part of making these events special for others.”

AZ Party Express

AZ Party Express specializes in event rentals and planning. They have been running since 1994 and offer a plethora of options. They have rentals such as tables, chairs, portable bars, event tents, swamp coolers, linens, and even luxury portable restrooms. Their luxury portable restrooms are fully loaded with 2 or 10-stall options, A/C, and Bluetooth speakers. Within their warehouse, you can also find standout rentals like a bouncer ball pit, throne chairs, a carriage, a flower wall, and much more!

 For planning services, they can plan from start to finish or as needed. To make event planning flawless, they partner with other venues, and vendors to get the best result possible.

 AZ Party Express has your party needs for events like birthday parties, weddings, business meetings, bar mitzvahs, quinceaneras, celebrations of life, and more. In his new business venture, Pedro appreciates serving the local community. “It is a pleasure to serve this community and they are giving me a new perspective on this town. To see them celebrate with their loved ones and come together is special. Whatever they are celebrating I am proud to be a part of it and make it memorable.”

Coming up for AZ Party Express

With the upcoming high school event season, AZ Party Express is now available to quote pricing for packages. They are also preparing packages for quinceaneras and sweet 16 parties.

Recently, AZ Party Express has moved to a new location and is now at 690 London Bridge Road. Along with their new location, expect updates to the inventory listed on the website for rentals. AZ Party Express loves to discount event packages, so don’t forget to call for special pricing. 

To get your party started, visit azpartyexpress.com or call 928-453-6000.

Stephanie and Cole Wood Owners of Champion Rentals

Champion Rentals

Planning a trip this summer to Lake Havasu City? Want to enjoy the calm water in the winter? Stephanie
and Cole Wood, owners of Champion Rentals, have the answers you need.

Stephanie and Cole’s Background

Previously located in Elk Grove, California, Stephanie and Cole moved here with their 2 kids to pursue a
new opportunity and change. Cole worked in the car business in California, and realized he and his
family were ready for a change. Stephanie and Cole have been coming to Lake Havasu City on vacations
for years, staying at Crazy Horse Campgrounds before enjoying a family members home in town. They
quickly fell in love with Lake Havasu City and its amazing amenities like the lake and desert trails.
Eventually they started looking for business for sale for a change in scenery, and 3 months ago, they
bought Champion Rentals.

Champion Rentals

Currently, Champion Rentals offers water toys like their 10 pontoons, 24 jet skis, stand up paddle
boards, petal boats, and kayaks. When asked about the best part of their new business, Cole stated,
“We really love being on the water and getting to come to work in our boardshorts and flip flops. We
also love interacting with visitors that come to town and are looking for a fun time by renting with us.”
Stephanie and Cole emphasize that the Lake Havasu City community has welcomed them with open
arms. “Gary at Rubba Duck Safari has been really great to us, along with Dallas Finch and Chad Nelson.
Chad has been amazing hooking us up with business and connections. All the businesses down in the
English Village have been so awesome too. We are really grateful.”

Coming up for Champion Rentals

This upcoming year, around March/April, Champion Rentals is hoping to expand by offering guided tours
either up to the Topock Gorge or down to Havasu Springs. Special pricing will be available when tours
first launch. Stephanie and Cole are ecstatic about their new business and look forward to the future.
“We are so excited about joining the Havasu community and being part of the English Village. We are
going to start coming up with new things to offer after tour guiding, maybe winter fishing boats and
looking to add some experiences to Lake Havasu for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information on Champion Rentals, you can call 928.855.8088. Follow their social media
accounts to stay tuned for more information about guided tours coming early 2024!
Instagram- championrentals
Facebook- ChampionRentalsLH

Holiday Happenings: A Festive Lineup of Events in Lake Havasu City

Holiday

As the holiday season unfolds, Lake Havasu City is alive with many events and activities to usher in the holiday spirit. From enchanting Christmas traditions to thrilling motorbike nights and lively community gatherings, there’s something for everyone this week. Join us in exploring the vibrant lineup of events that promise to make this holiday season unforgettable.

Holiday Event Highlights

Kokomos 12 Days of Christmas Holiday:

Kokomos invites you to embrace the season’s magic with their “12 Days of Christmas” celebration. Running from 5 pm to 8 pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, this festive gathering promises joyous moments with Stories from Mrs. Claus, ice skating, s’mores by the fire pits, letter writing to Santa, and a visit from Santa himself!

Bike Night at The Flying X Saloon:

On Wednesday, The Flying X Saloon hosts Bike Night from 7 pm to 10 pm, welcoming motorcycle enthusiasts for a night of camaraderie and shared passion. Ride in, meet fellow riders, and relish the vibrant atmosphere.

Grace Arts Live Presents Elf The Musical:

Grace Arts Live takes center stage this weekend with performances of “Elf The Musical.” Catch the Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 pm, with an additional Sunday show at 2 pm. Secure your tickets at www.graceartslive.com for a magical theatrical experience.

Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce Desert Bash:

From Friday to Saturday, the Lake Havasu Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Desert Bash and off-road poker run. Explore the event schedule on the Chamber of Commerce page for a thrilling off-road adventure.

20th Annual Community Dinner:

Join the community at the Aquatic Center this Friday night from 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm for the 20th Annual Community Dinner. Enjoy two seating times, with doors opening for the Early Bird Seating at 3:30 pm and the second seating at 5:45 pm.

Lake Havasu Farmers Market at the Kaws:

The Kaws on McCulloch is the venue for the Lake Havasu Farmers Market this Saturday from 8 am to noon. Explore a diverse range of fresh produce, baked goods, jewelry, candles, woodwork, and more, all brought to you by the locals of the lower Colorado River Community.

Havasu 95 Speedway Race:

Havasu 95 Speedway revs up excitement with a race this Saturday from 2 pm to 6 pm. Check Havasu95speedway.com for ticket details and don’t miss the action on the track.

Holiday Boat Parade of Lights:

Saturday night, December 9th, marks the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights at the Bridgewater Channel from 7 pm to 9 pm. If you can’t attend in person, fear not; we’ve got you covered with a live stream right here at the bridge. Join us, along with Chad Nelson from The A Team Coldwell Banker Realty, for this much-anticipated event. Keep an eye out for Snicker Doodles; the mischievous elf may be hiding on one of the boats. Spot him and send in a picture to win a prize!

Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive happenings across Lake Havasu City this week. From joyful gatherings to thrilling races and magical performances, the city is buzzing with holiday cheer.

Kiley’s Pet Care: A Passionate Companion for Your Furry Friends in Lake Havasu City

Aside from boat ramps and storage units, dog parks are another thing you will surely find in Lake Havasu City. Our town is full of dog-friendly businesses for our full-time and part-time citizens looking to take their pups out with them. But what about when you can’t take your dogs- or animals with you? Kiley Martzke owns Kiley’s Pet Care to be there for your pets when you can’t.

Kiley’s Background

Kiley was born and raised in Wisconsin before moving to Lake Havasu City to attend college at ASU at Lake Havasu. While she attended school, she needed an extra way to make money without interfering with her classes. Kiley then got the idea to post flyers around town with her number on tabs for people to take and inquire about pet sitting. From there, Kiley’s side hustle turned into the full-time business

that it is more than 6 years later. Between attending school and starting her business, Kiley also spent 3 years as a veterinarian technician, where she learned the valuable skills of administering IV fluids, medications, and more.

Kiley enjoys kayaking, hiking, reading, cooking, exercising, and weekly activities with her grandparents outside of work. She also loves spending time with her fur babies, Chihuahua Kameo and Nali Jane, another dog, Licky Luciano, and Ezra, a Siamese cat.

Kiley’s Pet Care

As a pet sitter, Kily enjoys the excitement she gets from both her clients and their pets. “I love the tail wags and runs I get when I enter their home or when they come into mine. I love how relaxed and comfortable they are with me and my dogs, and it reminds me why I started pet sitting and continue to do it.” Owning your own business can be tricky, and Kiley is grateful she has such loving clients. “Some fears I have as a pet sitter is getting a call that a client’s pet has passed away or a bad review on Orchids and Onions. I am so lucky I haven’t experienced either one. I pay attention to how I communicate with clients because they mean so much to me.”

Kiley’s pet-sitting services are 3 to 4 visits daily, overnights, walks, and in-home care. She travels to Havasu Heights and Parker and serves Lake Havasu City. Aside from pet-sitting dogs, she has watched cats, pigs, and goats. In addition to pet sitting, Kiley offers care services such as waste removal, nail trimming, vet visits, house sitting, watering plants, picking up mail/packages, and even tidying up the house on overnight stays.

“If I feel I need to do the dishes, sweep, wipe the counters down, or take out the trash, I will. I always leave the house the way I left it.”

After a motorcycle accident in 2022, Kiley faced severe injuries and trauma. This year has been about her rediscovery. Battling PTSD and an ankle injury with plates and screws, she initiated Walks-n-Wags, a group for K-9 companions and dog lovers in Lake Havasu City. The group meets twice monthly for walks or hikes, sometimes at the beach or a restaurant. In October, Kiley successfully organized the first Walks-n-Wags event, partnering with Minors Diner, Havasu Good Dog Training, Heavenly Paws Dog Grooming, and Woof-ing Good Dog Bakery. They donated 10% of the proceeds to R&R Pet Sanctuary. Kiley, also a Pet Sitter, expressed her amazement, saying, “This event was amazing, and I was in awe of what I accomplished for our town and people who love dogs as much as I do.”

What’s Next for Kiley?

While her calendar is booked for December due to the holiday season, Kiley is now booking out into May 2024. Coming up on December 23rd, Walks-n-Wags is holding another event, Christmas Dress Up + Doggie Gift Exchange, where a Christmas basket will be awarded to the best dressed. A hot cocoa stand and Havasu Good Dog Training is set to attend the event as well. It will take place at Jack Hardie Park at 9 am.

For more information on her services, you can contact Kiley at 719-553-7271 and follow Kiley’s Pet Care on Facebook for additional updates.