Splash July 2023

Havasu & Parker a Salute to

Welcome to Summer

Some like it hot

It certainly feels like we’ve had a mild start to summer, but it’s hot in Havasu by anyone’s standards. For those who’ve acclimated — that is, you’ve spent at least one summer here — the heat is a welcome development. It’s the opportunity to enjoy the authentic Havasu lifestyle, in a boat or poolside. Of course, there’s such a thing as miserably hot. Only the most masochistic among us want to see temperatures approach 130 degrees again, as it did on June 29, 1994, but the low triple digits are usually pretty pleasant when there’s a source of water nearby. Fortunately, Havasu’s weather is surprisingly tolerable, thanks to the dry climate and our other defining feature — a pretty big lake to help keep us cool. Bottom line, we like it hot in Havasu. As the folks at Go Lake Havasu have said, everybody knows Havasu is hot, so we might as well own it, and show the skeptics and the naysayers that life in Lake Havasu City is pretty great, even when it’s 128 degrees outside. Well, maybe 110.

Maximize your time out on the water

By LA’ERICA CONNER-SIMS

If visitors to the lake are wanting to have more quiet time during their day, they can expect to get an extra early head start to find the calm they are searching for. It is recommended to plan a trip that begins around the sunrise. The tranquility will start to simmer out once the early morning hours pass into the early afternoon around 10 a.m. Travelers should keep in mind the time of the week that they plan on making their rounds to the lake. These calm hours can best be found between Mondays and Wednesdays

STAY SAFE ON THE WATER

when traffic on the waterways will be less crowded. Being aware of when holidays are coming up can also play a factor in the turnout for heightened activity surrounding the lake and beaches. It is anticipated that visitors will be surprised to find more peaceful

Statistics from the United States Coast Guard indicate that, in 2019, 86 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents where cause of death was known were not wearing life jackets. The National Park Service reports that drowning is the top cause of visitor deaths in national parks and that nearly all of those deaths are preventable. One of the simplest ways to prevent drowning is to follow the advice of the NPS and wear a life jacket at all times when near or in the water. This includes when wading, swimming, fishing, boating, and engaging in watersports or other water-related activities.

The NPS notes that there are three types of life jackets, but only two come in child and infant sizes. Inherently buoyant (primarily foam) life jackets and hybrid (foam and inflation) life jackets are available in child and infant sizes. The NPS recommends both types of life jackets for swimmers and non-swimmers. People who intend to engage in water sports should know that some hybrid life jackets are designed specifically for such activities. The third type of life jacket is inflatable life jackets, which are only available in adult sizes and should never be worn by poor or non-swimmers.

gaps of time before and after major holidays take place.

Scheduling trips to work with the flow of traffic will allow visitors to maximize their time out on the water while minimizing their chances of being caught among the heavy flow of beach and lake-goers. The start of

May and June can lend more times of mildness for those wanting to find a good spot by the water for a relaxing experience. Late August can also draw in similar down times for travelers who find themselves in the Havasu area during the end-of-summer month.

POOL SAFETY ESSENTIALS TO LIVE BY

Pools are fun, but it’s a great responsibility to keep all swimmers safe. The following are some pool safety measures to put into effect:

• Keep water sanitary. Make sure pool water is chemically balanced so that it is comfortable to swim in and will not harbor any pathogens that can make swimmers ill. The pool equipment company Pahlen says the ideal water pH is 7.4 because that is the same as the pH in human eyes and mucous membranes, and it also supports good chlorine disinfection. The free chlorine content of a pool can range

from 0.5 to 1.6 to keep it sanitary. A quality testing kit can help owners balance water.

• Learn your local ordinances. Local ordinances will spell out which precautionary measures are required by law for people who have a backyard pool. These often include a fenced yard, a fence around inground pools that is at least four feet high, self-latching gates, and/or pool ladders that can be locked or closed when the pool isn’t in use.

• Rely on non-slip surfaces. Utilizing materials like non-slip deck surfaces or rougher concrete finishes around pools can help reduce some slips and falls.

For emergency care close to home.

Including the higher levels of heart care found in an accredited Chest Pain Center Because when illnesses, injuries, heart attacks and strokes occur, every minute matters. From the routine to the unforeseen, count on us.

To learn more, visit HavasuRegional.com Enhanced cleaning, mask requirements

THE WATER]

BOATING 101 [ON

From high-performance race boats to pontoon boats, there’s plenty of room for everyone to have fun on the lake.

MANY ENTRY POINTS

Want to know a secret? There are more places to launch your boat in Lake Havasu than just Lake Havasu State Park, Lake Havasu Marina, or Cattail Cove. Many of the resorts around Lake Havasu have their own private launch ramps, but there have always been local secrets to choose from, such as the Crazy Horse Campgrounds, Havasu Springs Resort (about 23 miles south of town), or the Site Six launch ramp across London Bridge on the island. Some are free and some have fees, but all are great options to get your boat on the water faster. A complete list of launch sites in the Lake Havasu area can be found at GoLakeHavasu.com.

RULES OF THE ROAD

>> No speed limit, unless passing through clearly marked no-wake zones, but speed must be controlled to not cause a wake that could cause damage to other watercrafts.

>> Life jackets are needed for all.

>> Courtesy lake traffic generally stays to the right.

>> Boat operators who are under the influence can receive a citation.

>> No bow riding while underway.

>> Driver’s view cannot be impeded.

>> Motorized craft must yield to non-motorized craft.

>> Two occupants in the boat are needed while towing others.

Hopping on a boat is one of the best ways to enjoy Lake Havasu. For the ultimate in relaxation and peace of mind, forgo the lines at the launch ramp and the responsibility of navigating the craft around unfamiliar obstacles. The Lake Havasu Marine Association has launched a Designated Captain program, featuring Coast Guard-certified captains who will launch your boat and pilot it for the day. The LHMA’s mission is to instill awareness among recreational boaters that assigning the responsibility of a sober “Designated Operator” will significantly reduce the number of under-the-influence-related boating accidents and fatalities on the water. For information, visit the Lake Havasu Marine Association website: LHMarineAssn.com/designated-operator.

Zen and the art of teamwork

By Scott Shindledecker

There is a sense of serenity that water lovers experience when they are making their paddle strokes. But for the members of the Lake Havasu Outrigger Canoe Club, there’s so much more than the calming effect of the waters they journey.

“I can remember the first time I sat on the canoe and I knew I wanted to be on the water more,” said Angela Veneroni, a member of the Outrigger Club.

Jan Chisman grew up in Missouri before landing in Havasu.

“We didn’t do things like this on the Mississippi (River), so the opportunity is precious,” she said. “I think it’s the best workout you can do with friends. It’s a real challenge and getting to watch the sunrises and sunsets is very peaceful.”

Outrigger canoeing came to Havasu in 2005 when Havasu residents David and Liz Vidad brought their love of the sport, which has many ancient cultural traditions, to the city.

Ohana, the Hawaiian word for family, is a key element of the club and one club members work to encourage in others.

“We’re all about the ‘Ohana,’” said Chisman. “We want to promote the sport, teach others how to do it safely and enjoy it.”

Outrigger canoeing began as a Hawai-

ian tradition when ancient Polynesians used the trim vessels for battle with their enemies.

The “outrigger” is an assistant float attached at the front and rear tips and sits parallel to the canoe.

The canoes are big, heavy and expensive.

A 6-person outrigger is 45 feet in length and weighs 400 pounds. A new one costs about $20,000. Even a 1-seater runs about $4,000.

“We usually buy them used,” Canoe Club member Cathy Chamberlin said with a laugh. David Vidad got the club started with a donation of two canoes and a trailer. Another member also donated two canoes.

The club boasts a roster with members from their 20s to the 70s.

“It’s tough to get younger kids involved because they are active in so many school activities, but once they are out of college, we start to see some more interest,” Chisman said.

The club is active with local events, in addition to competing elsewhere.

Club members recently competed in the Crystal Pier race in California. In addition to training for races, the group also participates in recreational meetings in which individuals or groups can learn the sport of outrigger canoeing.

Check their schedule online at https:// www.lhcocc.com/-calendar for exact times. For more information or to find out how to join, see their site at https:// www.lhcocc.com/.

Outrigger Canoe Club members have worked hard for nearly two decades years to promote team rowing on Lake Havasu

“I think it’s the best workout you can do with friends. It’s a real challenge and getting to watch the sunrises and sunsets is very peaceful”

Pristine beaches

Miles of soft sandy beaches are easily accessible for visitors who would rather enjoy the natural and boating scenery of Lake Havasu and the Colorado River from the shores. Whether alone or in a large group, these beaches are ideal for packing a cooler, grabbing a towel, and just sitting back to watch the boats of Havasu cruise by or for launching paddle watercraft. Typically, the beaches are near to restrooms and to some shade, while some have access to sand volleyball courts and larger pavilions with barbecues. But they all have one common element: breathtaking views of the desert mountains that encapsulate the Colorado River running through Lake Havasu.

Boat-in beaches

The Sandbar

Without question, “the Sandbar” is the most populated boater gathering place on the river. It is located about one mile north of Blankenship Bend. Its wide expanse of shallow water and soft sand bottom lure hundreds of boats to the “bar” on most weekend afternoons.

Tips for wearing makeup in hot weather

Most women won’t forego putting on a face just because the mercury’s rising, turning their skin into a slippery mess. The smart ones, though, get smarter about the products they use and how they apply them. “When it’s hot, makeup doesn’t stick. It will literally slide off the face,” says Allie Lapidus, a commercial makeup artist in Los Angeles. “In the summer, be sure to create a really good base so that everything stays on better.”

FACE: As a first step, Lapidus recommends using oil-free, highly pigmented concealers and moisturizers, instead of foundation, and applying as little as possible to prevent it from sliding. To bring a fresh sum-

Steamboat Cove

mer glow to the cheeks, Lapidus suggests gels and stains instead of powders and cream.

EYES: For eyes, Lapidus recommends applying either a primer or a dab of foundation before putting on shadow to help it stick, and following it up with a gel liner, instead of waxy, melt-prone pencils or tricky-toapply liquids, and then topping it off with waterproof mascara.

LIPS: For lips, there are lots of options for giving a hint of color without the heaviness of a lipstick. Again, Lapidus recommends highly pigmented products, such as balms and butters, that build up color through layering.

Located on the southern end of Lake Havasu on the Arizona side, Steamboat Cove is known as one of the lake’s largest natural coves and a favorite location of boaters looking for a safe, secure, and comfortable environment to enjoy a day or overnight stay. A generous expanse of sandy beachfront, enhanced with on-land restroom facilities and picnic tables, is located at the southeastern portion of the cove.

Take a ‘Safari’ tour of the Topock Gorge

Rubba Duck Safari, located in the English Village, offers boat rentals and guided tours on small rigid inflatable boats, or RIBs. The RIB reaches top speeds of anywhere from 25 to 30 miles per hour and can hold either three adults or two adults and two children. A variety of tours are available, but two are particular popular with visitors. The first is an upriver trip to Topock Gorge, a popular destination because of great views it offers of the narrow, high canyon walls.

If you’re looking for a more historical flair on their tour, a trip down south to Steamboat Cove can introduce you to the Colorado River’s steamboat history. That is also where there can be surprise sightings of bighorn sheep and the occasional burro. In both cases, tour guides have knowledge of coves and beaches not normally accessi-

ble to standard pontoon and power boats. The RIB can easily navigate into these remote spaces, allowing for a bit of novelty in every tour.

Reservations can be booked with Rubber Duck Safari by calling 928-208-0293 and are available year-round.

It’s hot! Get out on the lake and cool off

Lake Havasu’s water provide the perfect place to cool off in summer. Friends, neighbors and visiotrs all have the same idea — launch the boat and get out on the water. Launch ramps are constantly busy. Cooperation and patience between boaters on land and in the water are essential when there is a crowd at a launch ramp.

Be prepared ahead of time, be flexible, be patient and be helpful. Not everyone may be as skilled as you with a boat and trailer. The following is a list of launch ramps along the lake:

BLACK MEADOW LANDING AND MARINA

15 miles south of Lake Havasu on the California shore. Open from 7 a.m. to10 p.m.

CATTAIL COVE STATE PARK

10 miles south of Lake Havasu City on State Route 95. Day use fee, additional charge for overnight parking. Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

LAKE HAVASU STATE PARK

2 miles north of London Bridge at Windsor Beach. Day use fee, an additional fee for overnight parking. Ramp open 24 hours.

HAVASU RIVIERA

LAUNCH RAMP

Just off State Route 95, about midway between Rotary Park and South Acoma Boulevard. Day use is $15 Mondays through Thursdays; $30 Fridays through Sundays.

HAVASU LANDING RESORT & MARINA

Directly across the lake from Lake Havasu City on the California shore. Ramp open 24-hours.

HAVASU SPRINGS

RESORT & MARINA

22 miles south of Lake Havasu City on State Route 95. Open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

LAKE HAVASU MARINA

1100 McCulloch Blvd., charges $20 Friday to Sunday, and $10 Monday to Thursday. Ramp is open 24 hours. There may be restrictions on boats more than 26 feet in length depending on the water elevation.

SITE SIX LAUNCH RAMP McCulloch Boulevard, on the Island. Free 928-4538686.

Know before you go: Renting a boat on Lake Havasu

Boating season is back in full force, and getting on the water is a must in order to face the brutal summer temps. Sure, there’s plenty of shoreline to lounge on, but beaches can fill up fast. Experiencing the lake in full is something not to be missed. Don’t have a boat or personal watercraft? Here’s what you need to know before renting a boat on Lake Havasu, with the help of GetMyBoat — a relatively service that’s new in town and allows non-boat owners to experience the fun getting on the water has to offer.

WHAT BOATS CAN YOU RENT?

If you’d like to spend a few nights on the water, houseboats are the way to go – especially for large groups or family trips. If you’re more active and enjoy water skiing or tubing, try a ski boat or motor yacht. Pontoon rentals are ideal for relaxing on the water with friends or family, and Jet Ski rentals can add some excitement to your outing. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, paddle boats, and fishing boats.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

It depends on the vessel. According to GetMyBoat, fishing boat rentals start at $85 per hour, and powerboats can cost up to $435 per day.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?

To rent a boat, you need to be at least 18 years old.

SAFETY FIRST

If you’re new to boating, take a boating safety class with Arizona Game & Fish. You don’t need a boating license to operate a vessel, so it will help you feel more confident on the water and keep you and your passengers safe. Treat the waterways like a road. Stay to the right side of the water, and give passing boats plenty of space to maneuver. If you plan on drinking, try the Lake Havasu Marine Association’s “Designated Captain” program or book a boat captain yourself to avoid operating under the influence.

Don’t forget to gear up with sunscreen, hats, and cool clothing to avoid overheating. Also make sure that there is at least one life vest for every person onboard.

WHERE SHOULD I GO?

Lake Havasu has so much to offer for its boaters. You can head out to the middle of the lake west of town to watch the sunset, bob in Thompson Bay, go north or south on the river to find a secluded beach for the afternoon, or cruise from place to place. Bridgewater Channel, Steamboat Cove, and Copper Canyon are popular boater hang-outs.

Water wellness

How water aerobics can help you stay fit during the hot summer

By Daisy Nelson

Staying in shape is challenging enough, but adding Havasu heat to the mix can make it feel impossible. Luckily, the water is your friend – and there’s plenty of it at the Aquatic Center.

There are multiple ways to incorporate water into your fitness routine, such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding – or water aerobics.

Margie Snyder, fitness instructor for the Parks and Recreation Department, teaches several water aerobics classes at the facility, along with her fellow teachers Vince Barr, Mary Frances Emerson, Sue Katschke, and Cheryl Miller.

“When we’re in water, our flexibility is entirely different,” Snyder said. “You might not be able to do an aerobics land class, but you can do water aerobics… The water is taking that beating for you.”

Snyder retired from teaching kinder-

garten in 2001 and began at the department in 2002 as an instructor. But teaching exercise began long before that – in 1988, to be exact, Fourteen years after moving to Havasu in 1974, Snyder started teaching jazzercise.

“It just became my passion,” Snyder said. “When I retired from teaching, I had a chance to come in here. I was still teaching and still had people. I love entertaining, I guess. I love laughing.”

That comes in handy. Keeping the class in high spirits allows everyone to be far more relaxed – and not even realize how much work they’re putting in.

“When you come to water exercise, you leave your troubles behind,” Snyder said. “Concentrate

CLASS INFORMATION

Classes are $5 each or $74 for a Punch Pass (worth 20 visits). Classes are held at the Aquatic Center at 100 Park Avenue

SUMMER SCHEDULE

Aqua Aerobics

(Intermediate to advanced)

9:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Designed to help shape and tone your body and keep your heart rate up while working in both shallow and deep water. This class utilizes weights in the chest-deep water and pool noodles for the deep end.

Aqua Motion

(Intermediate to advanced)

10:45 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday

Performed in deep water, where participants are suspended at shoulder level with the use of aqua jogger belts and water weights.

Aqua Challenge

(Intermediate)

9:45 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday Instructor’s choice. Waves are run during this class to provide an extra challenge.

Water Wellness (Beginner)

10:45 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday

A less intense alternative to the Aqua Motion class. This class still focuses on increasing your range of motion, flexibility, and strength with mild cardiovascular training.

Margie Snyder teaches a class called Aqua Aerobics at the Aquatic Center.

AQUATIC CENTER

With two heated pools, a wave pool, lap pool and outdoor splash area, the Aquatic Center offers a perfect change of pace from the lake.

on what you’re doing. Enjoy the class. I’ve had people who have had surgeries, bad hips, bad joints, that say the water has just saved them…. Just forget. Just let everything go, and come play with me for an hour.”

Music also helps class participants forget they’re working hard. Snyder – or Sarge, as she’s known by her students – always encourages them to sing along.

“You should hear them sing when I put on, “Your Momma Don’t Dance & Your Daddy Don’t Rock & Roll,” she laughed. “It’s hysterical.”

Each class begins with a warm up before launching into the aerobic exercises. When the class winds down, they stretch and cool off in the shallow end.

She’s always on the lookout to make sure her students aren’t in pain or pushing themselves too hard.

“If you can’t do what I’m doing, adapt it for your body,” Snyder said. “Honor your body. That’s the most important thing.”

Several of her class attendees are loyal to the program, she added.

“Come and see what we do in our water and then maybe use it at home,” Snyder suggested. “But I always try to encourage them to come to us because we know what we’re doing. I’m so dedicated to it.”

ROTARY BEACH

Enjoy a barbecue or a game of beach volleyball at the 40-acre Rotary Park, Lake Havasu City’s largest waterfront beach and park.

LAKE HAVASU STATE PARK

Right on the shores of Lake Havasu, the beach offers panoramic views of the lake and mountains beyond.

LONDON BRIDGE BEACH

Located along the famous Bridgewater Channel, this pet-friendly beach features a community stage, basketball and sand volleyball courts.

Your guide to Colorado River State Parks

By DAISY NELSON

State parks can be found scattered through the low deserts and high peaks of Arizona – but none rival the ones you’ll find right here along the Colorado River.

POPULAR PARKS

Lake Havasu State Park has been the most popular state park in Arizona for each of the last four years.

According to visitation numbers from Arizona State Parks and Trails, Lake Havasu State Park peaked with a total of 563,883 visitors in Fiscal Year 2017-18. Meanwhile, Cattail Cove and River Island state parks have both seen slight increases in visitors. Cattail Cove had 118,556 visitors in 2020, which was about 5,000 more visitors than in 2019 and about 7,000 more than in 2018. River Island’s 33,560 visitors in FY2020 was about 1,000 more than in 2019 2,000 more than 2018.

HAVASU RIVIERA STATE PARK

The Havasu Riviera Marina is a concession of Arizona State Parks. The project provides residents and visitors of Lake Havasu City with a plethora of lakefront amenities to complement the active Lake Havasu lifestyle.

The Riviera Pass will allow unlimited access to the marine 24 hours a day, any day of the year, for $400 annually.

Lake Havasu State Park

HAVASU RIVIERA MARINA RATES

Summer rates (April to September)

Monday-Thursday: $15 Friday-Sunday: $30 Holidays: $40

Riviera Pass: $400 – allows 24-hour access to the facility, good for 365 after the date of purchase.

LAKE HAVASU STATE PARK 699 London Bridge Road

Visitor center open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Entrance fee (per vehicle): $20 Friday through Sunday and holidays, $15 Monday through Thursday

This is one of Arizona’s most popular state parks. With three launch ramps, large sandy beaches and plenty of places to camp, it stretches north along the shore starting from the Bridgewater Channel’s western entrance. It faces west, making its sunset views hard to beat.

The park features cabins, RV campgrounds, hiking trails, a cactus garden and day use beach areas. For those using the park to launch their boat or Jet Skis, be aware that the various parking lots can fill up quickly, at which point the park will be closed to boaters. Plan ahead and get there early to beat the rush.

CATTAIL COVE STATE PARK

15 minutes south of Lake Havasu City on State Route 95

Visitor center open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Day-use fee (per vehicle): $10 Monday through Thursday, $15 Friday through Sunday and holidays

Overnight parking fee: $15 Monday through Thursday, $20 Friday through Sunday and holidays

Just a quick drive south of Havasu city limits is this hidden gem of a state park. Tucked away into the mountains along a windy road, Cattail Cove is the perfect spot for a day at the beach, away from the more congested parts of the lake. This park features several RV campsites and spots along the shore for boaters to stake out for a night or two. There are six trails that wind through the park and plenty of wildlife can be seen. Watercraft and RV rentals are also available.

RIVER ISLAND STATE PARK

5200 AZ-95, Parker

No visitor center

Entrance fee (per vehicle): $10

Located right on the shores of the Colorado River, this state park features 37 campsites, both for tent camping and RVers. A three-lane launch ramp allows recreational access to the water.

There’s one trail and plenty of space to swim for day-use fans, and it’s only one mile away from Buckskin Mountain State Park. It’s an ideal spot for kayaking in the cove or taking a staycation away from the busier locations in Havasu.

BUCKSKIN MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

5476 AZ-95, Parker

Visitor center open upon request during summer months

Entrance fee (per vehicle): $10

Tucked away along State Route 95, Buckskin Mountain State Park features 80 campsites for tents and RVs and day-use beaches with picnic tables and lots of shade. Situated on the banks of the river, this park offers an extraordinary view of the surrounding scenery.

The trail system here is extensive, and because the park is located miles away from Parker or Lake Havasu City, you’ll find wildlife in abundance. The park also features a two-lane launch ramp and a designated swimming area. Fishing is also a popular activity, with access to a large part of the river.

Why the water matters to novice kayakers

Kayaking is a fun way to spend an afternoon, particularly in summertime. If smiles on the faces of kayakers aren’t enough to convince you just how fun this sport can be, perhaps statistics can convince you how enjoyable it is to paddle away in a kayak.

According to the Physical Activity Council, which each year conducts the largest single-source research study of sports, recreation and leisure activity participation in the United States, recreational kayaking is the most popular paddlesport in the United States, attracting more than 11 million participants each year.

People who have never before been in a kayak may be intrigued by those statistics and tempted to follow the example set by millions of kayakers who take to the water every day when the weather permits. Safety should be a top priority for all kayakers, and especially for novices.

A kayaking course can be a great way for novices to familiarize themselves with the basics of kayaking, including the best practices in regard to staying safe on the water. Local watersports retailers and recreational organizations that take watersports enthusiasts out on the water may offer safety courses, and these courses can be great resources while also helping people get their feet wet before paddling away.

When kayaking for the firs time, it’s important that nov-

ices choose the right type of water for their experience level. Rough, choppy waters can prove challenging to even the most skilled kayakers, and these same waters can be deadly for novices. The following are some characteristics novice kayakers should look for in a body of water before pushing themselves and their kayakers into the current.

• Size: Novices should avoid vast bodies of water, such as oceans, rivers or large lakes, until they gain more experience. Large ponds and small lakes can be great places to gain some experience and familiarize oneself with the nuances of paddling.

• Demeanor: Demeanor might not be a trait one normally associates with water, but looking at a body of water in this way can be a great way to determine if it’s the right place for a novice. If a body of water is raging, with choppy waters and rapid waves, then steer clear. If the water is calm, then it’s likely a safe spot for novices.

• Traffic: Novices may be intimidated by crowds, but other kayakers can serve as something of a safety net for novices. Kayaking is a fun group activity, and novice paddlers should never go it alone.

• Variety: Novices should steer clear of waters that allow power boats. Such vessels can alter paddling conditions quickly, and that can put novices in potentially precarious positions.

Tips for first-time boat buyers

Boating is a rewarding hobby that can be great for people from all walks of life. Many people buy a boat because they already have a passion for fishing and want their own vessel to take out on the water. Others may buy a boat because they like the challenge posed by sailing, a demanding yet rewarding hobby. A

ccording to Grow Boating, a marine industry organization that aims to generate awareness and interest in boating, retail sales of new boats, marine engines and marine accessories in the United States totaled $20.1 billion in 2017.

That marked a 9.5 percent increase from the year prior, highlighting the growing popularity of boating. In fact, Grow Boating notes that 141.6 million Americans went boating in 2016.

• Assess your skills. An honest assessment of your skills will help you determine if the time is right to buy a boat.

There’s no shame in waiting to buy a boat until you become more comfortable navigating it. Boating schools can be great resources for novices, teaching them the ins and outs of boating.

• Ask around. Boaters tend to be passionate about boating, and many are willing to offer advice to novices about boats that may suit their needs. Local marinas can be great resources for first-time boat buyers. Visit a local marina and seek advice from current boat owners. Some may share their own travails and triumphs from their first boat-buying experience, and those stories can serve as a guide as you begin your own journey to boat ownership.

• Be patient. Boats are significant investments, so it serves prospective owners well to be patient and exercise due diligence before making a purchase. Do your homework on the type of boat that best suits your needs, skill level and budget.

Don’t move a mussel

State law requires boaters to follow a few simple rules to help mitigate the potential for harm caused by an aquatic invasive species of mussels, known as quagga and zebra mussels. Although not harmful to humans, the rapid reproduction of mussels on hard surfaces poses as a threat to boat motors, and water intake structures for power and water plants. Following these rules will help boaters to help us maintain healthy waters. Recent data shows that boat anchors are a leading cause of trailers and boats being intercepted at border inspection stations for aquatic invasive species contamination. Boaters, whenever you use your anchor, the anchor and rope must be thoroughly cleaned and dried to avoid AIS contamination. Upon exit, remove clinging debris, plants, mud, and insects from anchor, boat, motor, and trailer. Remove the plug and drain water from the bilge and any other compartment that may contain water. Allow watercraft, and other transportation components, to completely dry before re-launching in another area.

Lifesavers: To augment its boater safety efforts, Game and Fish has a life jacket loaner program. Currently there are 14 stations where a life jacket can be borrowed for the day including Windsor Beach and Cattail Cove

State Park. All boats in Arizona must have a life jacket aboard for every passenger and those 12 years old and younger must wear a lift jacket at all times, as well as water enthusiasts being towed behind a boat or on personal watercraft. The AZGF loaner stations mean you have no excuse.

Stay sun-safe: Cover up when the sun is out! Shoulders, knees, and tops of feet all face the sun when sitting so double up on protection with closed shoes, blankets, and sleeved tops.

Protecting and caring for skin should be part of people’s year-round health care regimens. Such an approach can help people look their best and also uncover any minor issues before they escalate into something more significant.

National Geographic says adults can carry eight pounds and 22 square feet of skin on their bodies. Skin guards a person from harmful chemicals, protects the body against extremes in temperature and prevents internal organs and other components from evaporating. The skin also guards against harmful sunlight. Skin care is not seasonal, though efforts to protect the skin may need to be stepped up during the summer. The American Academy of

Dermatology says one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetimes. In the summer, ultraviolet radiation levels are elevated and people often wear less clothing that exposes more of their skin. According to Dr. Ron Shelton, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, the bulk of sun damage to the skin happens in the summer. These skin wellness tips can help protect the skin and keep it looking its best when the mercury rises.

LIGHTEN UP: Choose lightweight products for summer usage. This includes cleansers, makeup and oil cleansers. For instance, rather

than an oil cleanser, choose a gentle, foaming option. Thicker products mixed with increased perspiration and humidity may lead to clogged pores and inflammation.

LATHER ON SUNSCREEN

Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more is recommended to protect the skin from UV damage. But itÕs easy to forget to apply sunscreen. However, using a lightweight moisturizer with SPF built in reduces product usage and time spent caring for skin.

UTILIZE VITAMIN C

SERUMS:

Hyperpigmentation can occur in summer. According to Omer Ibrahim, a board-certified dermatologist and codirector of clinical research at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, vitamin C serum can improve the appearance of fine lines, help with collagen production and also prevent hyperpigmentation.

DRINK MORE WATER

Higher temperatures and increased perspiration can lead to dehydration. That may cause headaches, dry skin and even lighthead-

edness. Drink at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water every day.

STAY IN THE SHADE

In addition to using sunscreen daily, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible when UV rays are at their strongest, which is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. In addition, wear clothing that offers sunscreen protection.

It’s important to care for the skin daily, but especially so during the summer.

GOING DEEP

KATHY WEYDIG HAS MADE IT HER LIFE’S MISSION TO SHARE HER PASSION FOR DIVING

By Scott Shindledecker

She’s dove the Andrea Doria, the B-29 bomber at the bottom of Lake Mead, and in bodies of water all over the world to depths of hundreds of feet, but the thought of having a rattlesnake encounter of the damp kind is terrifying to Havasu’s Kathy Weydig.

“I won’t dive with a re-breather here,” Weydig said. “There are no bubbles rising to the surface, so if a snake is swimming in the area when I rise, there’s no way for it to know I’m coming up and that’s what scares me the most.”

A true legend in the sport

of diving, Weydig said when she learned that rattlers were capable of swimming and biting while in the water, it became her biggest fear.

“I used to dive with a re-breather around here, but after I learned rattlesnakes swam and could bite, that was it,” Weydig said with a smile.

Rebreathers are popular for divers such as Weydig for a number of reasons. They reuse the gas that is exhaled by recycling the good part and replenishing it for the next breath. It means the gas supply is significantly larger in a compact package compared to what may be carried in a scuba tank for conventional open-circuit scuba diving. It allows longer dives, and is much quieter, both of major importance to underwater photographers because they can approach aquatic creatures that would ordinarily shy away from bubble noise.

Weydig, an original founder of the Women Diver’s Hall of Fame, seems most comfortable in the water because she grew up on it.

Growing up in Long Island, New York, Weydig’s father and uncle shared a boat. It’s where she first learned to love the water. Then, when she went to college at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, her then-boyfriend’s father had a sailboat in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island.

Weydig’s time above water made her want to learn what was happening under it.

“I took a basic, open water SCUBA course at the YMCA in Bridgeport and it grew from there,” she said.

Becoming a dive master

She went to a local dive shop, met other divers, took more classes, and became an EMT and dive master. Her

desire for exploration has led her to watery depths that were almost inconceivable when she was a child.

As she closes in on 3,000 completed dives, Weydig has explored some very notable shipwrecks. They include the Andrea Doria, USS Wilkes Barre and as an Expedition Leader on the 2004 and 2006 USS Monitor projects.

The Andrea Doria, an Italian cruise ship, rests on the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, 300 miles east of New York, in about 240 feet of water.

It collided with the Stockholm, a Swedish passenger liner, off Nantucket in 1956.

She and her husband of 25 years, Joel Silverstein, another famed diver, dove the Doria in 1998. They can serve an entire dinner on china they collected from the elegant ocean liner. Many divers consider the Doria to be the Mount Everest of diving. Since it sunk, more than a dozen divers have died after trying to explore it.

The USS Monitor was a Civil War era ship that helped even the playing field for the U.S. Navy after the Confederate Army had commissioned the C.S.S. Virginia, then known as the Merrimack.

It sunk off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, in December 1862. These days, Heydig, a member of the prestigious Explorers Club, spends most of her time diving Lake Havasu, working with the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Office, and leading the Sea Scouts.

The patio is the place to be at this house, located at 650 Hagen Drive. Complete with a geometric pool, fire pit, barbeque, and hot tub, this backyard and patio is made to entertain. There’s plenty of shade during the day, and the yard transforms in the evening with pool lighting and an eating area that features a table top fire pit. Black tile and gray stone create a modern feel to the large pool, which also features a table with bench seating and a shallow entrance.

Pretty pools & party-friendly patios

By Daisy Nelson

Swimming during the Havasu summer isn’t just a fun pastime — it’s a necessity for survival in the high temperatures and fierce sunshine. Having a space to do so on your own property with extra space to entertain is ideal, and pools and patios like these ones can help you combat the summer sun in style.

Whether you prefer a more natural take with warm earthy tones and landscaping that mirrors the surrounding desert or a more modern take with lots of open space, there’s a variety of cool pools and patios in Havasu that can provide some inspiration.

Pools with perfect corners and geometric shapes give a more modern feel, like this one, located at 1325 McCulloch Boulevard S. There’s also plenty of yard and patio space for any number of seating, tables or landscaping, if so desired. Water features with stones add a touch of luxury and tie in the pool with the surrounding desert. As always, plenty of shade is a necessity for Havasu patios. Tile replaces the typical concrete, for an added unique touch.

What lies beneath lake havasu?

Lake Havasu City divers know the skinny of what’s under the blue waters of Lake Havasu, and it’s not just fish. City resident and diver Dave Holt says big fish are just the tip of the iceberg when whole communities from the 18th century are engulfed in 75 feet of water.

What’s left of the old wooden structures are fragile, Holt notes, but the saloon, blacksmith shop, a two-story hotel and livery stable are still standing.

Before Lake Havasu was created by the Parker and Davis Dams, Liverpool Landing sat on the banks of the Colorado River near Site Six in Lake Havasu City, not quite 2 miles northwest of the London Bridge on the Arizona side.

Liverpool Landing was one of the stops made by steamboat Captain Isaac Polhamus during his 50 years of working on the Colorado River. Polhamus transported troops and supplies from Fort Yuma to Fort Mohave on a regular basis but frequently took on passengers.

Aubrey Landing, a steamboat stop on Captain Polhamus route, is another underwater chapter of history when Lake Havasu was created. Located at the mouth of the Bill Williams River about 2 miles northeast of Parker Dam, the river community in its heyday boasted about 50 frontier-style buildings with an estimated 150 permanent

residents.

Today, Holt says, only a handful of buildings stand under the water.

Back in the mid 1860s, before the dams, the Colorado River area was a bustling area with copper and silver mines. Black Metal Mine, on the California side of the Colorado River below Parker Dam, was one such mine. In 1881, historical records say, it was a thriving little mining camp with a store and saloon at the landing. Abandoned around 1890, the site is about a half-mile northeast of Black Meadow Landing recreation area on the California side of the river. In addition to the river’s pioneer history, the Chemehuevi Indians lived on both sides of the river, according to anthropologist Harry Swanson, a teacher of Southwest studies at Mohave Community College in Lake Havasu City. Swanson noted that there is a Chemehuevi burial ground at the bottom of the lake.

Tito Smith, Chemehuevi Tribal Chairman, confirmed there are several burial grounds under the lake, some prehistoric.

Smith also confirmed there are several Chemehuevi farm buildings and homes under water. Just above Blankenship Bend are writings created by the Mohave. “There’s an underwater cavern about 22 feet down,” Holt said. “The writings are in the cavern.”

Grab a paddle!

By DAISY NELSON

Looking for a way to get in a workout while enjoying all that Lake Havasu has to offer? Paddleboarding is the perfect combination to get you right out on the water, no speed boats or Jet Skis required. In preparation for paddleboarding, always check the weather prior to heading out. If it’s going to be excessively windy or a thunderstorm is to occur, postpone the trip until better weather comes along.

If you do not own a paddleboard yourself or you are new to the sport, you can always rent one from several different places in town. Paddleboarding in itself is not typically considered a difficult activity.

Beginners usually start out on their knees to get a feel for the balance and then stand up in the middle of the board to begin paddling. Slow and steady is the best way to gain balance, and standing with a strong stance in the center of the board is key.

Paddleboarding in Thompson Bay and underneath the London Bridge are usually where our paddle boarders begin. The

no-wake zone makes it much smoother for them and the view is beautiful.

The absence of a strong current and constant waves makes the activity all the more enjoyable and relaxing, rather than having to worry about keeping balance or fighting your way upriver.

Fitness blends seamlessly into fun with this activity. Between balancing and pushing the board along the water’s surface with the paddle, the abdominal muscles, arm muscles, and legs are all being put to work while you enjoy the scenic serenity of Lake Havasu’s waters.

Built for comfort

Get ready to mix things up when it comes to fashion.

Comfort and variety are the buzzwords for swim and beach wear in hot Lake Havasu City

Whether your choice is a bikini or a one-piece, it’s all about what’s comfy. One-piece placement print suits are very thinning, while bandeau bralets may be worn as a top or underneath a coverup.

Knotted and wrapstyle swimsuits have made things much more interesting. No matter the placement, the knotted details are a cute finishing touch and are flattering on many body types. One-piece suits with mesh accents combine comfort with a hint of allure.

Tankinis provide modesty with the convenience of a two-piece suit while allowing its wearer to do a variety of water activities without the fear of losing the top.

DOTS: You’d be hardpressed to find a pattern as playful as the old-school polka dot, which appeared to be having a moment in 2023 runway collections. Designers are introducing upbeat pattern-filled collections that include florals, stripes and polka dots.

TIMELESS SHORTS: Board shorts of all lengths are very popular while T-shirts and collared shirts have a wide variety of styles and colors for the guys that look great.

PEPPY POLKA

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