Toasting Wellness With Mocktails
Angel Nene Martinez
Tonya Dangerfield, MBA, REALTOR®, Life Insurance Agent
Nick Dangerfield, REALTOR®
Health & Wellness Guidance
For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue. But for others, January can be a reminder of failed or unfinished attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that 2025 will be different.
We approached this edition of the magazine from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term, but valuing efforts that are sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to everyone's physical, emotional and mental health.
When it comes to anything in life, including business, finances, food, home and personal health, it’s not what you do some days that move the needle. It’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse! It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices that will punctuate this new year.
And, it’s what you choose to do most days that can lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous year.
Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.
SHARON DUFFY THOMAS, PUBLISHER @FRISCOMAG
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Sharon Duffy Thomas | sharon.duffy@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
William Thomas | william.thomas@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amy Schmidt | amy.schmidt@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Julie Brown Patton | julie.patton@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Julie Brown Patton, Angela Broockerd, Savannah Woods, Caitlyn Agnew
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Janie Jones, Chris Fulcher
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
At Jensen Orthodontic Arts, we combine ART, SCIENCE, and EXPERTISE in orthodontics to customize your smile and improve or reconstruct the function and harmony of your teeth. That alone says a lot, but Dr. Doug Jensen also uses his training in the closely-related specialty of PROSTHODONTICS and dental aesthetics to create wonderful outcomes for unusual or complex dental problems– Think VENEERS, CROWNS, IMPLANT CROWNS, and DENTURES. Dr. Jensen is one of the few dual specialists in both orthodontics and prosthodontics in America, and we are lucky to have his experience in this area. He offers clear orthodontic treatment options including CLEAR BRACES, LINGUAL BRACES, and CLEAR ALIGNER THERAPY to meet your aesthetic needs. Count also on getting treatment rendered efficiently without ignoring the balance that should be present between the teeth, joints and muscles in a properly functioning bite.
Dr. Doug Jensen, DDS, MS
Board-Certified Orthodontist, Prosthodontist
Don’t wait! Come see us for an expert’s Complimentary Evaluation
Get a straightforward assessment and roadmap to the PERFECT SMILE!
Veneers
Photos & Smiles by Dr. Jensen
Non-alcoholic cocktails have
Checked Out FAC Exercise Options Recently?
ly Enhancements For Mental Health
Five Self-Care Tips Beyond Staying Connected to Family, Friends
Exercise Locations For Youths
Frisco's Diverse Choices For Play Fitness Parties, Toddlers To PreTeens
rich elements, hydration, fewer calories and reduced risk of alcohol-related health issues.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: SoCar Golf Cars opened in Frisco, including a new showroom, at 10525 N. County Road. 2: OWLawyers Trial Law recently opened a Frisco office at 7330 StoneBrook Parkway, Ste. 100. 3: New Frisco opening: Indian culinary delights via Bharat Bhavan vegetarian restaurant/grocery at 13355 Main St. 4: La Parisienne, French Bistro at Frisco Star, serves lunch, brunch, dinner, afternoon tea, desserts, cocktails. 5: SRO Lo recognized Purefoy Elementary Pre-K teacher Javon Prince for saving choking student with Heimlich maneuver. 6: Officer Matthew Thielepape was presented 'Service Above Self' award by Rotary Club of Frisco. 7: Elements Massage provides nearly 20 types of massages at Frisco-Stonebriar 3246 Preston Road, Ste. 300.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
COURTESY OF FRISCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COURTESY OF FRISCO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COURTESY OF BHARAT BHAVAN
COURTESY OF LA PARISIENNE STAR
FRISCO POLICE DEPARTMENT
FRISCO POLICE DEPARTMENT
COURTESY OF ELEMENTS MASSAGE FRISCO-STONEBRIAR
All-Inclusive Fertility Treatment Center CCRM Dallas-Fort Worth
INDUSTRY-LEADING PATIENT CARE
• Dedicated, on-site physician team.
• IVF laboratory.
• Comprehensive diagnostic services.
• All preimplantation genetic testing performed by CCRM Genetics Lab.
• Specializing in most-advanced fertility treatments, including expertise in in-vitro fertilization (IVF), fertility assessment, fertility preservation, genetic testing, third party reproduction and egg donation.
DR. DORETTE NOORHASAN
is board-certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and serves as CCRM Fertility Dallas-Fort Worth’s medical director and co-founder.
8380 WARREN PARKWAY, SUITE 201 APPOINTMENTS: 972.377.2625
CCRMIVF.COM/DALLASFORTWORTH (In-person and telehealth appointments)
business monthly
Frisco, Prosper Independent School District Partner For Future Arts Center
Frisco officials are partnering with the Prosper Independent School District on a proposed Frisco Center for the Arts, and collaborating with Broadway Across America/Broadway Dallas to create a ‘Broadway Frisco’ series to reside in the facility. It includes a 2,800-seat performance hall, capable of accommodating Broadway and large touring/community productions, as well as a 300- to 400seat community hall to be used primarily by Prosper ISD while also providing access to community organizations and events.
Sweet Gilly's Launches: Where Cakes Meet Luxury
Sweet Gilly’s Specialty Bakeshop opened in Frisco at 3266 Parkwood Blvd., Ste. 100. The bakery specializes in allergen-friendly desserts and pastries. The items reportedly are free from dairy and eggs, according to owner and pastry artist Gillian Kirk. The bakery also offers daily gluten free, tree nut free, peanut free, soy free and other allergen friendly offerings. Gillian was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune conditions, leading her to develop recipes free from the top nine allergens.
Japan-Based Clothing Brand Uniqlo Opens In Frisco
Japan-based clothing brand Uniqlo opened in Frisco’s Stonebriar Centre, 2601 Preston Road, Space No 2164. The store sells apparel for men, women, children and babies. This casual wear designer and retailer is known for its LifeWear philosophy of providing consumers with high-quality everyday clothing with attention to detail. Uniqlo is a brand of Fast Retailing Co., Ltd., a Japanese retail holding company with global headquarters in Tokyo.
Photography Courtesy of Sweet Gilly's
Photography Courtesy of Stonebriar Centre
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
FRISCO FITNESS
Checked Out FAC Exercise Options Recently?
The Frisco Athletic Center at 5828 Nancy Jane Lane offers a full range of fitness classes to help participants achieve numerous goals. Specialized, small-group fitness classes are available to both members and non-members. Included in FAC memberships is access to 70-plus group exercise classes per week. Additionally, members can opt for a variety of personal training options.
FAC offers classes to fit different schedules. Group exercise class admission is included in FAC memberships. Non-members may purchase a day/guest pass at the front desk.
The Indoor Aquatic Center at the FAC also has a variety of water exercise programs.
FAC trainers maintain national certifications through continuing education to stay current on health and fitness research plus trends. Services are available for those aged 12 and older. Clients must maintain an active FAC membership and purchase training packages before their first session.
972.292.6600 memberships@playfrisco.org
Discover the artistry of Performance Painting & Remodeling, your premier destination for exquisite kitchen, bathroom, and whole-home renovations, along with interior and exterior painting. Our palette of services extends beyond just painting and remodeling, to include an array of home improvement specialties.
From precision carpentry and luxurious flooring to intricate trim and crown molding, we master every detail. Our skilled team is adept in drywall repair, elegant tile work, bespoke countertops, and the seamless removal of popcorn ceilings, among other services. Entrust us with your vision, and we will sculpt it into reality, enhancing every corner of your home with impeccable craftsmanship and beauty.
REMODELING
PAINTING
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Daily Reminders For Enhancing Mental Health
ADVICE EDITORIAL: FIVE SELF-CARE TIPS BEYOND
CONNECTING WITH FAMILY, FRIENDS
Get Regular Exercise.
Just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost moods and improve health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if 30 minutes can't be all at one time.
Make Sleep A Priority.
Stick to a schedule and try to get 7-9 hours of sleep for each 24-hour period. Reduce blue light exposure from phones or computers before bedtime.
Try Relaxing Activities.
Explore relaxation/wellness programs or apps. Incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation or breathing exercises. Listen to music, read, spend time in nature and engage in lowstress hobbies.
Set Goals And Priorities.
Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if starting to feel as though you’re taking on too much. At each day's end, practice appreciating what was accomplished, no matter if small or large task.
Practice Gratitude And Positivity.
Remind yourself daily of things for which to be grateful. Be specific. Write them down or replay them in your mind. Challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts that creep in.
EXERCISE
For Youths LOCATIONS
Frisco's Diverse Choices For Play/Fitness Parties, Toddlers To PreTeens
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
TUMBLES
Gym Classes, STEAM Classes, Birthday Parties, Camps, Special Events; 469.200.5122.
MY GYM FRISCO
Parents Nights Out, Pre-Ballet, Ninja Training, Camps, Parties; 214.387.0330.
LIFE TIME FRISCO
Grown Up & Me Classes, Studio Classes for Kids & Tweens (LifeBarre Dance, SHRED, SOL yoga, Warrior Sculpt, Ringside); 469.476.3900.
NINJA NATION FRISCO
Ultimate Indoor Play Space; Parties. 214.937.4942.
KIDSTRONG
Science-Based Athletic Play, Ages 1-1, Builds Confidence, Character; 469.422.6559.
FRISCO'S QUALITY OF LIFE, Wellness Ranks High
National Community Survey Results Signify
Favorable City Ratings, Direction
BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
A city survey finds Frisco’s quality of life, economic health and ‘overall feeling of safety’ rank higher than 500-plus communities representing more than 50 million residents across America. Frisco city officials commissioned the National Community Survey, conducted July 8–Sept. 2. NCS received a total 929 responses between ‘random’ and ‘open’ participants.
Overall, nine out of 10 residents gave Frisco excellent or good ratings for livability, place to raise children, quality of life and overall reputation.
The survey shares eight in 10 residents will continue living here over the next five years. The “overall feeling of safety” ranked 94% higher than the NCS’ national benchmark.
“We’re proud to say public safety accounts for about half of our budget every year,” says Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney. “That kind of investment has been our best practice for more than a couple decades. This approach by city councils helped Frisco achieve accolades for livability, job growth and safety. We’ve even made a list for being a ‘happy place.' This scientifically based survey acknowledges things we do well, but also points to areas where we can improve.”
The survey posed questions about 10 “Facets of Community Livability:" community design; economy; mobility; parks/recreation; utilities; inclusivity/engagement; safety; natural environment; education, arts/culture; and health/wellness.
Economic health, utility infrastructure and ‘feeling of safety’ rank ‘higher’ than NCS’ national benchmark. In fact, Frisco received:
• 45 higher ratings
• 75 similar ratings
• 3 lower ratings
Related to community design, Frisco’s appearance, neighborhoods, housing options, plus well-planned commercial and residential growth, ranked higher based on NCS’ national benchmark.
Mobility in Frisco ranked lower. While street cleaning and repair received high marks, signal timing, ease of walking and overall quality of transportation system were found to be ‘similar’ to other communities. Ease of travel by bicycle ranked below other cities in the comparison study.
Surveys were mailed to 3,000 random households, and 225 were returned. Open participation effort resulted in 704 responses. Frisco’s current population is estimated to be 236,754 as of November 2024. Frisco received high marks for governance and inclusivity. The city’s “overall direction” and making residents “feel welcome” also ranked high.
PHOTOGRAPHY
EAT YOUR WAY Around the Globe
Exploring culture through food
ARTICLE BY SAVANNAH WOODS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS FULCHER
Food has always been at the forefront of humanity; after all, we need it to survive. But as people and trade developed, food has become so much more than survival. It has become an art in itself. Some areas hold onto tradition and nostalgia while incorporating new ideas and other cultural influences. If one truly wishes to experience the culture, there’s no better way to dive right in than over a meal.
Paso Robles, California Allegretto
Tucked into the rolling hills of Paso Robles, California, sits the Allegretto Winery and Resort. A unique hotel curated to showcase art worldwide and give visitors a relaxing, spiritual stay.
The Cello Restaurant & Bar is open all day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lunch menu highlights were the Muffuletta sandwich, Tuscan style, served with sun-dried tomato hummus, pistachio mortadella, salami Toscana, mozzarella cheese, roasted tomatoes, baby arugula, cello olive tapenade, and a house-made ciabatta roll.
Chris Fulcher and Savannah Woods are travel writers and photographers, having worked all around the world with various hotels in the Americas, Europe, and the Mediterranean. They are based out of Las Vegas, Nevada.
CHRIS FULCHER AND SAVANNAH WOODS
Allegretto, Muffuletta
Allegretto, Miso-Crusted Salmon
“If one truly wishes to experience the culture, there’s no better way to dive right in than over a meal.”
For dinner, plates of miso-crusted bay salmon served with ginger butter as well as their 8-ounce certified black Angus filet mignon, oak pit grilled, seasonal vegetables, dauphinoise potato, red wine Demiglaze with a horseradish mascarpone.
Ending the night with dessert, a “triple chocolate bomb,” a chocolate soufflé cake, raspberry dark chocolate mousse, framboise scented ganache, toasted almonds, fresh raspberries, and white chocolate curls.
Aruba
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, located at Eagle Beach, boasts the biggest private beach on the island. Here, there are four different restaurants on the property, each cultivating unique aspects of Aruba’s culture, encompassed by their famous Aruban hospitality.
Ike’s Bistro
Ike’s Bistro, open for breakfast and dinner, is an open-air location boasting a huge Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Menu highlights feature their homemade chia pudding made with coconut milk, chia seeds, agave, homemade granola, and berries, and a variety of smoothie bowls featuring the açaí peanut butter bowl - made with açaí smoothie, freshly sliced banana, granola, seasonal berries, and peanut butter.
For dinner, some of our favorite highlights were the Filet Mignon, 6-ounces of beef served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, porcini mushroom sauce, and homemade chimichurri, and the Vegan Steak and Shrimp, which was made out of lentil steak with grilled New Wave shrimp served with potato wedges, steamed broccoli, and sesame-ginger glaze.
The Chophouse
While the atmosphere on Manchebo creates a feel of casual relaxation, for those looking for a more elegant evening, there is The Chophouse.
The star of The Chophouse and our favorite server was Harold Rasmijn, who received the Caribbean Employee of the Year Award in 2018.
Aruba, Harold Making Banana Foster
Menu highlights were the lamb chops, marinated with garlic and herbs from Manchebo’s herb garden, and the Almond Grouper - a pan-seared grouper served with potato puree, green beans, and coconut white wine sauce.
Harold completes the experience by serving a special dessert of banana foster which he makes table-side for a spectacular end-ofthe-night show.
Venice, Italy
Venetian cuisine is characterized by its fresh seafood; however, Venetian people take pride in making food with fresh meats, fish, fruit, and locally sourced vegetables.
San Clemente Palace Kempinski
San Clemente Palace Kempinski, located on a private island, is the perfect getaway experience just off the coast of Venice and minutes from Piazza San Marco. Several restaurants and lounges are available throughout the day for your eating and drinking pleasures. The most important meal of the day is served at the Insieme Restaurant, open from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. An open breakfast buffet surrounded by the church courtyard on the island, the buffet offers a wide variety of fresh vegetables, bread, cheeses, meats, and fruit; this fresh start to your day will leave you energized as you explore Venezia.
Venice, Fresh Bread
Venice, Buffet Entrance
Aruba, Vegan Steak and Shrimp
MIXING HEALTH AND FLAVOR
A Delicious Mocktail to Savor Without the Alcohol.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
INGREDIENTS
ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
• 1 cup cane sugar
• 1 cup water
• 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
• 5 tablespoons pear juice
• 1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup
• 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice
• sparkling water to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY SIMPLE SYRUP
Combine sugar and water in a pot and cook over medium heat. Cook until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and toss in rosemary sprigs. Cool Completely.
HOW TO MAKE ROSEMARY PEAR MOCKTAIL
Pour pear juice, rosemary simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling water into a glass. Add ice and garnish if desired.
INGREDIENTS
THYME SIMPLE SYRUP
• 1 cup cane sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup fresh thyme
GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/3 cup thyme syrup
• Ice
INSTRUCTIONS
HOW TO MAKE SIMPLE SYRUP:
Combine water and sugar in a pot. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes. Remove from the heat and add fresh thyme and steep.
HOW TO MAKE GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL
Rim glass with sugar if desired. Fill glass with ice. Add 3 tablespoons thyme syrup to each glass and fill up with 1/2 cup grapefruit juice and approximately 1 cup sparkling water. Garnish.
GRAPEFRUIT THYME MOCKTAIL WIZARDLY BUTTER BEER
INGREDIENTS
BUTTER BEER
• 2 liters of creme soda
• 2 tablespoons butter extract
• 2 teaspoons rum extract
CREME TOPPING
• 7 ounce container of marshmallow creme or fluff
• 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon rum extract
INSTRUCTIONS
Add the rum extract and butter extract to the 2 liters of cream soda. Close lid and gently mix. Prepare the topping by combining the marshmallow creme, whipping cream and rum extract. Beat on high for a few minutes until peaks appear. Add a few tablespoons of whipped topping to the bottom of glass. Pour cream soda over topping. Enjoy!
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 2ND
Ice Skating In The Square
4:00 PM
In its 14th year at Frisco Square, Skate the Square is the area’s only real ice outdoor ice rink. Located perfectly along Main and Coleman, skating costs $20 per person, with or without skates. Each reservation is 1 hour. Walk-ins are accepted, subject to availability. For questions, call 214.444.8758 (8SK8). Check the group's Facebook/Instagram pages for inclement weather updates.
JANUARY 5TH
The Light Park
Riders Field | 5:30 PM
Extend holiday spirit by cruising through millions of dazzling lights, synced perfectly to the rhythm of festive tunes, courtesy of DJ Polar Ice. Amp up the fun with some tasty treats and zappy beverages, and get ready to be shocked by the sheer brilliance of it all. One ticket covers an entire vehicle. Prices start at $29.
JANUARY 6TH
NCAA Division I FCS Football Championship
Toyota Stadium | 7:00 PM
The best of NCAA football will meet again in Frisco at the NCAA Division I Football Championship Series. Game tickets and details here: NCAA Football Tickets | NCAATickets.com. Payment options, including all major credit cards, PayPal and Apple Pay.
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JANUARY 9TH
School Spirit Night With Carroll Elementary PTO
Halo Pizzeria | 4:00 PM
Support Carroll Elementary PTO's Spirit Night at Halo Pizzeria, 1220 Panther Creek Parkway in Frisco. Join them from 5-9 p.m.; happy hour 4-7 p.m. Halo will donate a percentage of every in-store order that day to benefit the Carroll Elementary PTO, contributing to student body causes. Halo Pizzeria is a new New York Style pizza concept voted Best Pizza 2024.
JANUARY 18TH
Feed The City Frisco:
Making Meals For People In Need
Sidecar Social Frisco | 8:00 AM
Buy products (coldcuts, breads, condiments, plastic food bags) for making sandwiches. Aim to bring supplies for 25-30 sandwiches. No registration is needed; RSVP on Facebook is appreciated. Bring as many people as you want. No age limit. The event lasts approximately 1.5 hours. Product donations are preferred over money. Contact Tango Charities by calling 214.395.4269 or emailing tangocharities@gmail.com.
JANUARY 18TH AND 20TH
Memphis Hustle At Texas Legends
Comerica Center | 7:30 PM
Basketball players for the Texas Legends, a G League affiliate of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, will play team members of the Memphis Hustle. The Memphis Hustle professional basketball team are based in the Greater Memphis suburb of Southaven, Mississippi, and are affiliated with the Memphis Grizzlies. Tickets are $10-$28 each. Parking is $10; credit or debit card payment only.
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