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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com March/April 2025 North Valley Pride
WHEN DREAMS TAKE THE FIELD Why the Rose Bowl Is More Than a Game for Our Family
Football was always a part of our lives growing up, but the Rose Bowl has held a special place in my heart for as long as I can remember. This century-old tradition, with breathtaking pageantry and rich history, is a celebration of perseverance, achievement, and community. For me, the Rose Bowl has a profound personal significance, intertwined with cherished memories and meaningful connections that span generations.
John’s achievements have made all of Anthem proud, but his father, Steve, adds a fun twist. Steve is a die-hard Notre Dame alumnus and has been dreaming of a matchup between Ohio State and Notre Dame for a couple of years now. I can hardly recall a time I have seen Steve without some Notre Dame gear — a hat, jacket, or polo shirt. This season, Steve’s dream came true when Ohio State faced Notre Dame for the National Championship.
My uncle, Bruce, played football for the University of Illinois and took the field in the 1964 Rose Bowl alongside the legendary linebacker Dick Butkus. The Illini won that year, and that victory filled our family with pride. Bruce and Dick were not just teammates, but they also were roommates during away games and shared a bond both on and off the field.
John Ferlmann and Lisa
The excitement in their family was palpable, and what a reminder of how football can bring people together in the most unexpected and wonderful ways. We were all thrilled to watch Ohio State win the Rose Bowl! Congratulations to the Buckeyes! As we look ahead, John’s future in football is bright. With one year of eligibility remaining at Ohio State, he faces the exciting decision of whether he should continue playing at the collegiate level or take the leap into a professional career. Whatever path he chooses, I have no doubt that John will make Anthem proud, just as he always has. The Rose Bowl has become a symbol of connection for me: connection to family, history, and the incredible stories that unfold in our own community. Whether reminiscing about my uncle’s time on the field with Dick Butkus or cheering on a young Anthem athlete as he chases his dreams, the Rose Bowl reminds me of the power of tradition and the joy of celebrating life’s milestones together. As another season of football comes to a close, I find myself grateful for the memories this game has given me and the lessons football continues to teach. Here’s to honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to the future with optimism and pride!
Dick Butkus #50 and Bruce Capel #51 at the 1964 Rose Bowl
After college, while Dick went on to a celebrated career with the Chicago Bears, Bruce joined the Quantico Marines. Tragically, my uncle was killed in Vietnam not long after, leaving a mark on our family’s story. In honor of his fallen teammate and friend, Dick chose to wear #51 — the number Bruce wore in college — when he played for the Bears. This gesture of remembrance and friendship has always touched my heart. Fast forward to this year, and the Rose Bowl took on even greater significance for me. A young man from our Anthem community, John Ferlmann, played in the game as the starting long snapper for Ohio State. John and his family have been long-time clients and friends, and we have enjoyed watching his journey from playing at Boulder Creek High School here in Anthem to representing Arizona State University and now Ohio State on one of college football’s biggest stages.
–Lisa Jones
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
We are dedicated to protecting you from the rising threats in today’s real estate market, and unfortunately, these scams are becoming more and more sophisticated. Following the overwhelming response to our recent article on deed fraud, we are turning our attention to two equally concerning challenges: wire fraud and rental scams. These evolving threats demand awareness, vigilance, and proactive measures to secure your investments and transactions. Stay a Step Ahead of Wire Fraud Wire fraud has become a notable issue in real estate, with losses skyrocketing over the past five years. In 2024 alone, criminals stole an astounding $2.9 billion by manipulating electronic fund transfers during real estate transactions. These sophisticated scammers target critical moments, such as right before closing, using tactics like AI- driven impersonation and compromised email accounts to redirect funds to fraudulent destinations. When Scammers Strike The Alarming Rise of Wire Fraud and Rental Scams and What You Can Do
Imagine sending tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, believing you are closing on your dream home, only to find that the money has vanished into an offshore account. Sadly, this exact scenario has happened to many unsuspecting buyers, with recovery often impossible once the funds are transferred. The best defense against wire fraud is meticulous verification. Never trust last-minute changes to wire instructions sent via email. Always confirm transfer details directly with your title company or agent by calling a number you have previously verified. Remember, acting quickly and thoroughly can make all the difference. Understand the Growing Risk of Rental Scams Rental scams are another growing threat, targeting both property owners and tenants. Fraudsters create fake listings on popular platforms like Airbnb and Zillow, often using stolen or falsified information. They collect deposits and rent from unsuspecting tenants while the real property owners remain unaware that their property is being misrepresented online. Protecting yourself from these schemes requires proactive measures. Property owners should build strong relationships with neighbors who can keep an eye on their properties. Also, watermarking property photos can prevent unauthorized pictures from being used to trick others, while setting up Google Alerts for your property address can help you catch fraudulent listings as soon as they are posted. Your Ally in Real Estate Protection Your safety and livelihood are our top priorities. While these scams may be difficult to catch, with the right precautions and expert guidance, you can navigate the real estate market with confidence. Should you suspect fraud or have questions, reach out to us. We are here to provide the expertise and support you need to safeguard your real estate investments.
–Dennis and Lisa Jones
How to Make Gardening a Family Adventure GREEN THUMBS IN TRAINING
There’s nothing better than spending time with your kids outside, enjoying an entertaining, creative, and informative activity. But sometimes, these activities are hard to coordinate. Thankfully, gardening appeals to parents and kids from all walks of life. All you need is a dedicated area in your yard or patio and seeds, and you’re ready to get started. Let your kids choose the plants. This is arguably the most crucial part of igniting your children’s interest in gardening. If you pick out the fruits, veggies, and flowers you want to grow and invite your kids to help plant, water, and pick, they may lose interest quickly. Instead, include them in the process from the get-go. Take them to the store and let them pick out seeds or plants. Encourage them to choose produce they already enjoy
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Keep the Stories Alive Your Guide to Cleaning Vintage Treasures
Broccoli Salad Supreme
Do you find yourself fascinated by all things vintage or tend to get lost in the whims of nostalgia? If so, you’re not alone! Antiques aren’t just old trinkets — they’re timeless treasures gifted to us from the past. Whether it’s an heirloom painting or an old brass duck, these items have stories and hold priceless and sentimental value for many. Depending on how “vintage” your pieces are, cleaning and restoring them can require knowledge, precision, and care. One mistake can erase their historical significance and cause irreparable damage. Use these five tips to clean your antique collection safely. Identify what the antique is made of. Despite what many say, soap and water aren’t always safe, especially for antiques. Water can cause warping in wood, damage certain fabric materials, and tarnish metal. With many antique pieces, the finish determines your cleaning method. A tip for wood is to test the finish with denatured alcohol. Handle it delicately.
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
INGREDIENTS
• 10 cups broccoli florets (about 3 1/2 pounds) • 6 cups seedless red grapes (about 3 pounds) • 1 cup sliced celery • 6 green onions, sliced
• • •
2 cups mayonnaise
2/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled • 1 1/3 cups slivered almonds, toasted
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large salad bowl, combine the broccoli, grapes, celery and onions. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar and vinegar. Pour over broccoli mixture and toss to coat. 2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, gently stir in bacon and almonds.
Before restoring your antique, it’s essential to consider whether handling it will potentially damage it. Wash your hands before touching items, and consider wearing gloves as an added precaution to prevent transferring oil from your hands to the collectible. Avoid harmful chemicals.
eating, making it even more fun for them! Just be sure their choices can grow in your area during the current season. Make space and plant together. After choosing your seeds, you must ensure your garden is ready to sustain life. Dedicate a section of your lawn or patio to your gardening efforts and start laying soil or filling your planters. Help your children transplant their seeds or young plants directly into the area. Now, put them in charge of caring for the plants by checking on and watering them. You may want to supervise to ensure they aren’t over- or under-watering. Make it fun and informative! You can get your kids more involved by encouraging them to research their plants and track their growth. They can even look online to see how their plants should be developing. Soon enough, those fruits and vegetables will be ready to eat, and you should let your children pick anything ripe when possible. Seeing the fruits of their labor (literally) will make this experience even more enlightening and enjoyable for them.
No matter what your antique is made from, it’s always best to avoid products containing ammonia, bleach, and other harsh chemicals, as they can strip finishes, damage structural integrity, and cause discoloration. Be mindful of cleaning tools. Microfiber cloths, cotton swabs, and soft bristle brushes are fantastic tools for cleaning antiques. Having the right tools beforehand ensures the cleaning process is effective and prevents damage to the antique. Store it in a safe place.
Depending on the type of antique you have, do a little research on the piece to understand how to store it properly. Keeping pieces out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources and moisture will always favor the antique. Plus, learning the fascinating stories behind vintage pieces is part of the charm of why you enjoy them so much!
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Is there really such a thing as “organized chaos”? It depends on whom you ask! If you thrive in clutter, this article isn’t for you. Creating an organized space is simply a matter of ensuring household items have a place to be stored — and not in the one drawer filled with everything from ketchup packets and paper clips to a random Cheeto! Whether you’re preparing for house guests or diving into a spring-cleaning marathon, these organizing tips will bless your cluttered mess! Tension Rods for Shoe Storage Need more shoe space? Not a problem — just grab a few tension rods! If you have two sturdy objects — dressers, a wall and nightstand, etc. — you can place two tension rods between them and create a “shelf” to place your shoes on. Add multiple rows of tension rods for extra storage. Clothes Pins for Cabinet Door Storage Kitchen cleaning supplies, especially lightweight items, don’t always have to be placed on the floor inside the under-sink cabinet. Putting double-sided tape onto clothes pins and sticking them inside the cabinet doors creates an excellent place to hang rags/sponges, kitchen gloves, and sink stoppers. Napkin Holders for Pot Lids Using zip ties and upright wire napkin holders, you can create a lid organizer for your pots and pans. Rather than flipping the lid upside down on top of the pot, you can create a designated space for all the lids to reside. You can even organize your lids from smallest to largest! Pool Noodles as Hanger Spacers Between Clothes Pool noodles work as spacers to keep your clothes hanging neatly. Just take a pool noodle and make one cut length- wise to open the noodle, and then cut it horizontally into 1-inch pieces. Place the pieces on the bar in your closet and hang your clothes according to how many hangers you want between each spacer! Honeycomb Organizer for Socks and Undergarments DIY ORGANIZATION TIPS TO BRING ORDER TO YOUR LIVING SPACES Get It Together!
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Drawers that house undergarments and socks tend to get disorganized quickly. Honeycomb organizers are the perfect addition to ensure all items fit in the drawer, making it easier to grab what you need. These organizers are also adjustable, so they’ll fit any drawer size!
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Why Does My Water Take So Long to Get Hot?
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Having hot water is a luxury many enjoy, but it can be frustrating when the water takes too long to heat up. A lag in hot water temperature can be due to many factors, including uninsulated pipes, lower water temperature settings, or something as simple as not realizing the knob isn’t turned all the way. No matter the case, anyone’s patience can grow thin when waiting on hot water, especially when they desperately need the pampering of a relaxing bath or shower. Before frustration sets in and you take a hammer to the tap, here are three common culprits preventing your water from getting hot enough, fast enough! The water heater is set to a lower temperature. Most water heaters have adjustable control settings (except for heaters in rented spaces). However, for most homes, changing the heat to a higher setting only requires manually adjusting the temperature to the desired degree. Also, COMMON REASONS YOUR SHOWER IS COLD
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consider the time it takes for the hot water to reach the tap. You may set the temperature to a specific degree, but it may be a few degrees cooler when it reaches you. The water heater is too far from the shower. Ideally, water heaters are placed centrally in a home, but that isn’t always the case. Basements and laundry closets are common areas for water heaters, and in many instances, they are a good distance away from the kitchen or bathrooms. When this is an issue, it can take some time for the water to heat. The pipes aren’t insulated. Areas like an unfinished basement or crawlspace can be the culprits for slow-heating water. As the warm water passes through the pipes, the pipes warm up, but that can take time. Depending on the location of the pipes, you can insulate them, but if it’s not worth the time or effort, it’s best to have a little more patience with your water heater!
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Styling your shelves is an opportunity to let your creativity run wild! With a few thoughtful tweaks, your shelves can go from cluttered chaos to chic and cohesive. Embrace the ‘love it or leave it’ rule. If it’s not practical, sentimental, or something you absolutely adore, it doesn’t belong on your shelf. A few well-placed pieces can be far more striking than an overcrowded display. Pick a palette, not a paint splatter. Stick to a cohesive palette to avoid a jumble of clashing colors. Pair whites with soft creams, metallics, and neutrals for a sophisticated look. Add artwork for personality. Lean a piece of art against the back or hang it on the molding for extra flair. It doesn’t have to be fancy — a framed kid’s drawing can add the character your shelves need to pop. Play with texture and height. Mix in baskets, wooden objects, or textured vases to keep things interesting. Combine varying heights and sizes, but stay true to your palette. TURN YOUR SHELVES INTO A SHOWSTOPPER Shelf Styling Made Easy
Simple Ways to Make Your Favorites More Nutritious INDULGE WITHOUT THE GUILT
When we were children, our parents served us many dishes that filled our bellies and hearts with warm, positive feelings. Many of us hold on to these nostalgic recipes, cooking them whenever we need a pick-me-up, but many have realized those classic comfort foods aren’t as healthy as they could be. If you’re trying to eat healthier, you may think you have to cut way back on comfort foods, but that’s not the case. You simply have to find ways to make them more nutritious. Here are three ideas to get you started. Swap out ingredients. One of the best ways to make your favorite comfort food healthier is to swap out less nutritious ingredients for healthier options. Do you love eating pasta but don’t want to overindulge on carbs? Then, swap out your standard spaghetti noodles for
spaghetti squash. Mashed cauliflower can replace mashed potatoes, Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream, and whole wheat crust and low-fat cheese can replace traditional crust and full-fat cheese on pizza. The options are endless! Add more vegetables and whole grains to the recipe. Our favorite comfort foods can be full of simple carbs and fat (which is why they taste
so good!), but adding healthier ingredients can balance the carb-fest. Whole grains are a way to get more fiber, B vitamins, iron, and magnesium into your diet, and adding vegetables also increases fiber and vitamins. For example, sauté onions, mushrooms, and zucchini and add those to your spaghetti sauce — or even to your favorite mac and cheese! Finding the right additions might take some creative thinking, but once you do, you’ll never look back! Cut back on the salt. Salt is a staple ingredient in many comfort foods, but it can contribute to high blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Limit how much salt you include in your dish, and use low-sodium or salt-free ingredients when possible. If it feels like you’re taking the flavor out of your dish, use spices and herbs to replace the salt.
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
How the Sport Is Winning Hearts Across America and Around the Globe F1 Fever in the U.S.
Take a Break
Ever since I was a young boy, I have been a fan of auto racing. From NASCAR to the Indy 500, fast cars have always grabbed my attention. Of all the racing genres, Formula One is my favorite. As the 2025 racing season approaches, allow me to explain what the buzz is all about and why this international motorsport has taken the U.S. by storm. 1. Netflix Helped Turbocharge F1’s U.S. Popularity Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” series helped introduce F1 racing to over 300 million paid subscribers and added fuel to its growing fan base by pulling back the curtain, allowing fans to experience the drama, rivalries, and personalities behind the scenes. The Netflix series introduced new fans to the intensity of F1 racing and exposed the human personalities that create these rocket-fast cars. “Drive to Survive” is not only about race cars, but also a story of grit, innovation, and teamwork. 2. A Global Spectacle Finds a U.S. Home F1 has always been a dazzling showcase of speed and precision in glitzy international cities like Monaco, Monza, and São Paulo. But now, the United States is part of the action with races in Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas, each bringing its own unique flavor to the championship. The technical mastery of the Circuit of the Americas in Texas, the sun-soaked excitement of the Miami International Autodrome, and the neon-lit spectacle of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit have transformed America into a true F1 destination. 3. Speed and Sound That Will Blow Your Mind F1 cars are engineering marvels, reaching mind-blowing speeds of over 220 mph. Juan Pablo-Montoya recorded the fastest speed ever during a race weekend with a top speed of 231.52 mph during the 2005 Italian Grand Prix. He won the race from start to finish. But it is not just about the speed — it is about the sound. These machines roar at 130 decibels, louder than a full-blown rock concert. If you ever attend a race, bring ear protection and prepare for an unforgettable sensory experience. 4. The Stars Behind the Wheels There are 10 racing teams, and each team has 2 cars. The driver lineup has been dominated in recent years by Max Verstappen, a three-time world champion with the Red Bull team. Lewis Hamilton adds a dramatic twist this year by joining the Ferrari team. Rising talents Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri drive for the McLaren team and make every race unpredictable. 5. The 2025 Season Is Right Around the Corner The
AQUAMARINE BASKETBALL BLUEBIRD CLOVER
GREEN IDES LEPRECHAUN MADNESS
PISCES SPRING TANGERINE TULIP
The 2025 season kicks off March 13–15 in Melbourne, Australia. Race weekends follow a consistent pattern with Friday reserved for practice, Saturday for time qualifying to determine the starting position order, and Sunday is race day! You can watch every race on ESPN. Go to ESPN.com/F1/schedule for the full season dates and locations. If you would like to chat more about F1 over email, contact me at Dennis@DLJonesHomes.com .
–Dennis Jones
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Inside The Rose Bowl Through Generations: A Connection Beyond the Game How to Stay Safe in an Era of Wire Fraud and Rental Scams Engage Your Kids With Fun Gardening Projects
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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Lisa & Dennis Jones
3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
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Broccoli Salad Supreme Preserving Timeless Pieces Decluttering Hacks Made Easy We Have a Home for You!
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Why Does My Water Take So Long to Get Hot? The Secrets to Perfectly Styled Shelves Enjoy Your Favorite Comfort Foods While Eating Healthier Why Formula One Is More Than Just a Super-Fast Car Race Take a Break Pit Stops Along the Alaska Railroad You Can’t Miss
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dream, winding from Anchorage to Seward along the Turnagain Arm waterway. Highlights include spotting bald eagles and hopping on a boat at Resurrection Bay to explore Kenai Fjords National Park, famous for its orca whale sightings. For those drawn to Denali’s majesty, the Denali Star is your ticket. This flagship route connects Anchorage to Denali National Park, offering stops like Talkeetna, a charming artsy town and basecamp for climbers scaling Denali. It’s a 12-hour journey of awe-inspiring landscapes and rich history. The Glacier Discovery route takes you south from Anchorage to Girdwood, Whittier, and the Spencer Glacier. Whittier is a standout destination with its sleepy charm and world-class Alaskan fish. This train provides remote access to places you can’t reach by car, making the trip a unique experience. And if you’re looking for an offbeat adventure, the Hurricane Turn and Aurora Winter trains cater to locals and intrepid travelers alike, offering stops by request and transporting you into the heart of Alaska’s untamed backcountry. With the Alaska Railroad, the journey is as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re marveling at wildlife, enjoying a sit- down meal, or booking excursions to explore iconic landmarks, every mile of track is packed with adventure.
Why Traveling Alaska by Train Beats the Cruise Ship All Aboard the Alaska Railroad!
While Alaskan cruises get all the buzz, traveling the Last Frontier by train offers an equally breathtaking — and perhaps more intimate — experience. With panoramic views, unforgettable pit stops, and access to remote regions, the Alaska Railroad delivers a journey unlike any other. Imagine gliding through the rugged wilderness in a GoldStar Dome car, where glass ceilings offer a 360-degree view of snow-capped peaks and glistening glaciers. For the adventurous, the outdoor viewing platform lets you immerse yourself in the stunning scenery while breathing in the clean, crisp Alaskan air. Whether you choose the premium GoldStar class or the more budget-friendly Adventure Class, you’ll be awed by Alaska’s natural beauty. The Alaska Railroad operates year-round with five seasonal routes, each brimming with wonder. The Coastal Classic is any traveler’s
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