Frisco Life February 2017

FEBRUARY 2017

Frisco Life FriscoLifePubs.com

Romancing Frisco

L U V- N - U SAYING I DO IN FRISCO HIS & HERS VALENTINES GIFTS YOU + YOUR VALENTINE TAKE FRISCO

KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY www.CheneyGroup.com

Be Our Valentine!

THE CHENEY GROUP IS SWEET ON YOU.

Over the last 13 years, the cheney group has amassed almost $500 million in North Texas sales, earning the title of #1 Home Selling Team in our market and becoming one of the most successful teams in the entire country.

Jeff founded The Cheney Group with a different vision than most, one of bringing the consulting approach to real estate. Our goal is to develop a long-term relationship with clients, offering practical advice to help them make the best possible decisions for their families. As industry market experts, our unparalleled market knowledge and cutting-edge marketing tools position The Cheney Group to sell your home faster, and for a higher price.

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Lifestyle Letter

Love.

FEBRUARY 2017

L

ove is one word that really doesn't have one true definition.

Love means different things to each person. Love can come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, it can be seen and felt in different relationships. Love is the one thing that connects all of us. We become out better selves when we express love, when we receive love and when we encourage love to others.

Love is especially in the air during this month. With Valentine's Day approaching soon and wedding planning in full swing, February is indeed the month of love.

PUBLISHER

Tim Miller | Tim.Miller@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Kristi Anderson | Kristi.Anderson@LifestylePubs.com INTERN

Madison Nicole Adam John CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristi Anderson, Jason Gilmore CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

In this edition, you will read about some great ideas for you and your Valentine to spend the day together. You will also get a glimpse into what Frisco has to offer in terms of planning as well as hosting your wedding in this great city of ours. From some of our best bridal boutiques to beautiful, intricate wedding venues, brides and grooms-to-be can accomplish everything for their wedding from start to finish here.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Jason Gilmore

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL MANAGERS

AD COORDINATORS

| Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

| Nicole Sylvester, Nicolette Martin

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Kristi Anderson , Editor

| DeLand Shore

| Janeane Thompson

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Megan Seymour, Chad Jensen

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

| Cyndi King, Jessica Sharky, Dana Rudolph

DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

| Melanie Carlisle

EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPERS

| Randa Makeen

| Michael O’Connell

| Hanna Park, Scott Lavigne

by Community ™

FriscoLifePubs.com JOIN US

4

Frisco Life | February 2017

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Frisco Life™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Frisco’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Frisco Life™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

February 2017

Departments

20

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Culinary Creations

24

Trend Setter

26

Driver’s Notebook

30

City Scene

32

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

20 Saying I Do in Frisco

A Few Notes for the Special Day

26 Best New Convertible

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

30 Romancing Frisco

You + Your Valentine

24

26

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Minnesota | Missouri | Montana North Carolina | Ohio | Oklahoma | South Carolina | Tennessee | Texas | Utah

30

Good Times

Winter Fun, Christmas In The Square

Frisco can chalk up another successful "Christmas in the Square" in the books! Frisco residents and visitors from across the metroplex joined in the Christmas fun! Lights, Santa, sleds, horse carriage rides and much more were available at The Square.

See you next year!Â

Night Skate in the Square

Snow Tubing Fun

Christmas Tree Lighting

Carriage Ride down Main Street

Christmas Lights

Santa Claus Himself!

Fun Skating

8

Frisco Life | February 2017

Generous Donations for our Troops

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

"FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD" DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE

PADDY DASH Paddy Dash is coming to Frisco! Lace up your running shoes and

Dads & daughters! "Follow the Yellow Brick Road" to the Frisco

get ready for a fun race at the Paddy Dash in Frisco! This event, held

Conference Center, Saturday, February 4th, for a night of wonder at

in mid-March in the Frisco Square, includes a 5K run, a one-mile

the 21st Annual Daddy Daughter Dance brought to you by Frisco

fun run or walk, a 50-yard dash for children younger than ten years,

Parks & Recreation.

and plenty of games, music, and free food and drinks. Meet at 8874

RESTAURANT OPENING! Tupelo Honey Cafe has been pairing an eclectic southern menu with southern hospitality for over 15 years, and they're excited to

Coleman Boulevard, Frisco.

DALLAS OPERA ORCHESTRA PRESENTS MADAME BUTTERFLY

bring the Appalachian charm to Frisco! Check out their menu full of

On March 18, Frisco will be presented with a free simulcast of

Southern Small Plates, Supper Plates and plenty of Farm Fresh Sides.

Madame Butterfly at The Star Stadium. This free event will feature

Then, mosey on over to the bar menu to see their commitment to craft

the Dallas Opera Orchestra and Chorus, wonderful sets, costumes

cocktails featuring local brews and distillers.

and more! Tickets are free to the public. To register visit here: www.

We can’t wait for them to bring their new south flavors to Texas and

dallasopera.org/simulcast or call 214.443.1000.

be a part of the brand new Dallas Cowboys world headquarters, The Star! They are set to open in summer 2017 and will be located at the entrance of the Star’s mega-plex development. Tupelo Honey Cafe will open an 8,000 square foot restaurant with an 1800 square foot patio, private dining rooms and an awesome bar featuring more than 50 taps of locally-sourced craft beers and scratch-made cocktails.

Come hungry, Frisco!

Tupelo Honey Cafe Is Headed To Our Town Madame Butterfly

DALLAS COWBOYS UNVEIL THEIR NEW TENANTS AT THE STAR! On December 15, 2016, The Dallas Cowboys organization welcomed their new retail tenants. Cane Rosso, Concrete Cowboy, Cow Tipping Creamery, Donut Kitchen, East Hampton Sandwich Co., Howard Wang’s China Grill, Plains Capital Bank, Raising Canes, The Common Table, The Lincoln Experience Center, Trophy Park, Yucatan Taco Stand, Zaytinya and Ziziki’s. These tenants will join the 200,000 square foot retail block located south of The Ford Center and Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters.

Charlotte Jones Anderson explained, “The combination of these great partners allow guests to enjoy The Star whether there is a special event happening, or a simple night out, any night of the week.”

The Star complex is set to be completed in early 2017.

10

Frisco Life | February 2017

Your Frisco “St ar Realt ors”

Ted Cox Tom Robertson Rusty Pierce Jeff Cheney Zak Anderson Ebby Halliday Realtors Century 21 Judge Fite Co. RE/MAX Premier, IV Keller Williams Realty Allie Beth Allman 972-741-6006 Paulette Greene 214-300-1015 214-850-7809 214-550-8200 Rene Burchell 972-292-8033 Christina Klement Christi Stevens Judi Wright Ebby Halliday Realtors Keller Williams Realty Ebby Halliday Realtors Coldwell Banker Ebby Halliday Realtors 214-957-3372 469-877-3303 214-923-5920 214-801-3930 214-597-2985

Christina White Coldwell Banker 972-989-2010

Sammy Gardner Home Centers Realty 469-853-7463

& Associates Christie Cannon Keller Williams Realty 469-951-9588

Jacque Trulock Michelle Campbell Bobbi Bracco Keller Williams Realty Keller Williams Realty Keller Williams Realty 972-569-7265 972-365-0916 214-395-4845 Patty Smith Debi Leavitt Lynn Slaney Silguero Jackie Dorbritz Angie Boyd Janice Berg Berkshire Hathaway Ebby Halliday Realtors Ebby Halliday Realtors Ebby Halliday Realtors Keller Williams Ebby Halliday Realtors 214-450-5002 972-567-9107 214-668-3079 972-679-5089 972-489-3254 214-356-5103

FRISCO • PLANO • PROSPER • CELINA • MCKINNEY • ALLEN • DALLAS

Group One

Real Estate Network

www.grouponenetwork.com

Choose One Realtor with the Power of Many • Twenty-Two Agents • Eight Real Estate Companies

O f h ni c T

his A S

A t a P h T

Culinary Creations

Tips for Cooking with Wine

ARTICLE DEBRA LAIZURE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

U

sing wine in cooking intensifies flavor and adds another

level of uniqueness to your recipe. It gives a dish that extra

something special to turn great-grandma's pasta sauce recipe into your own (and make your sister-in-law jealous). So grab that secret ingredient from the wine cellar and head to the kitchen.

plash Of

12

Frisco Life | February 2017

As Julia Child says, "I enjoy cooking with wine, sometimes I even put it in the food I'm cooking."

Wine should be added to food early enough in the cooking process that it has time to simmer. As wine cooks down, the alcohol evaporates away and the flavors begin to concentrate. Use a light hand at first until you get familiar with cooking with wine.

Typically, white wines impart their delicate flavor to seafood, and dishes like chicken piccata and vegetable risotto. Red wine adds depth to bolder dishes like beef bourguignon, mushroom steak sauce, and of course, great-grandma's famous pasta sauce.

Using wine in a reduction or to deglaze a pan creates an intense and complex sauce.

It easily picks up those coveted brown bits that elevate the flavor of any dish. But be careful—light and overly fruity wines can ruin a sauce. The fruitiness is lost during the cooking process and will leave the sauce too acidic, ensuring those lovely brown bits have gone to waste.

Red or White?

Let's be clear about what is considered a good cooking wine. The so-called "Cooking Wine" found in your local grocery store next to the fancy vinegars and Worcestershire sauce is a poor excuse for a cooking ingredient. They are low in alcohol content, highly acidic, and contain a massive amount of salt.

Instead, choose a wine you would pair with the meal. Use one that is fruity, medium or full-bodied, and with little or no oak flavor. Wine aged in oak barrels tends to turn bitter and harsh when cooked in food.

For red wines, Pinot Noir and blends such as Côtes du Rhône will produce consistent results. Again, avoid wines aged in oak such as the robust Cabernet Sauvignon. White wines should also be dry and full-bodied. Try a Sauvignon Blanc, unoaked Chardonnay, or even a French Vermouth.

CONTINUED >

As Julia Child says, "I enjoy cooking with wine, sometimes I even put it in the food I'm cooking."

February 2017 | Frisco Life

13

Culinary Creations

(CON TI N U ED)

Let's Talk Price Does

an

expensive

wine

produce a better sauce than a wine picked from the bargain bin? Well, maybe. America's Test Kitchen tested sauces made

from

similar

wines

in the $5, $10, $20 and $30 price points. They discovered that the $5 wines cooked down to sweet, syrupy sauces, while the $10, $20 and $30 bottles were smoother,

making

sauces

with

multiple layers of flavor.

Although tasters favored wines in the two more expensive price ranges, none thought the difference justified spending an extra $10 or $20. They found that limiting the price to $10 left cooks with plenty of good shopping options.

Cooking Tips:

• Add a light, dry white wine

to melted butter and baste grilled, broiled, or baked fish.

• Mix wine with different herbs and olive oil to make a delicious salad dressing.

• Stir in a couple tablespoons of red wine into brown gravy. Slowly simmer to create a luscious sauce for beef.

• Freeze leftover drinking wine in ice cube trays for future cooking use.

• Use a wine-based marinade to help keep meat, poultry or seafood moist while it cooks.

14

Frisco Life | February 2017

RED WINE REDUCTION FOR SAUCES

Makes about 2 tablespoons Two tablespoons of this potent wine reduction can be substituted in a recipe, such as a pan sauce, tomato sauce, or roast beef jus, that calls for one-half to three-quarters cup of wine. Add this reduction near the end of the cooking time—the way you might finiswh a sauce by swirling in some butter. The reduction can be kept for up to two weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

1 small carrot, chopped fine (about 2 tablespoons) 1 medium shallot, minced (about 2 tablespoons) 2 button mushrooms, chopped fine (about 3 tablespoons) 1 small bay leaf 3 sprigs fresh parsley 1 cup fruity, smooth, medium-bodied red wine blend Heat all ingredients in 12-inch nonstick skillet over low heat; cook, without simmering (liquid should be steaming but not bubbling), until mixture reduces to 1 cup, 15 to 20 minutes. Pour through strainer and return liquid (about 1/2 cup) to clean skillet. Continue to cook over low heat, without simmering, until liquid is reduced to 2 tablespoons, 15 to 20 minutes.

From America's Test Kitchen Season 2

February 2017 | Frisco Life

15

UNIQUE VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS FOR HIM & HER Flowers, chocolate and jewelry: They’re the tried-and-true staple gifts for the celebratory day of love, but instead of the traditional present, here are a few ways to think out of the box this year and give something they’ll really remember.

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

16

Frisco Life | February 2017

FOR HER

• Parabo Press: Inspired by

Subscription:

• Flatterbox: Valentine’s Day is

processes,

seems like the go-to Valentine’s

Instead of trying to find the per-

the perfect time to tell the woman

Parabo Press is the perfect gift

Day gift, but ReWined Candles

fect accessory or clothing item

in your life how much she means

for the photo-taking woman in

are the wine gift that keeps

for her, let her pick herself! With

to you, but the cheesy romantic

your life. Offering products from

giving. The natural soy candles

Wantable providing unique prod-

cards are so overdone. Instead,

square prints, both black and

are handcrafted and poured

ucts tailored to individual tastes,

opt for this box full of kind remarks,

white and color engineer prints,

into repurposed wine bottles

needs and wants, she’ll never

compliments or words of advice

14-month photo calendars, glass

and come in signature, blanc

have to worry about spending

for the special people in your life.

prints

photo

and magnum varieties that

hours trying to find the perfect

Flatterbox.com

books, there’s truly something for

mimic the notes of your favorite

makeup, clothing or accessories

everyone. Parabo.Press

wines. They even have soap!

again. Wantable.com

small-batch

and

print

hardcover

• ReWined Candles: Wine

Shop-Rewined.com

•

Wantable

CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Frisco Life

17

UNIQUE GIFTS (CON TI N U ED)

FOR HIM

Series

• Bespoke Post Subscription:

sports fan in your life, check out

2-Hermés:

partnership

Built for men, the Bespoke

Products:

Ballpark Blueprints. Capturing

between Apple and Hermés cre-

Post Box is curated based on

bearded man in your life, there’s

the

• Stadium Blueprints: For the

•

Apple

Watch The

•

BeardBrand For

Grooming the

stylish

and

ated this unique timepiece with

user preferences and delivers

Beardbrand grooming products.

beauty of sports stadiums in a

hand-crafted leather bands in

a collection of goods from

Offering a selection of beard

series of posters, find the per-

several styles, including a double

small-batch brands monthly.

oils,

fect addition to his man cave.

buckle cuff, double tour and sin-

Box examples include liquor

wax, texture paste and more,

BallparkBlueprints.com

gle tour, and all the sought-after

aging kits, a cigar-themed

these high-quality products are

features of the Apple Watch

kit and a guide to making

sure to please any beardsman.

Series 2. This gift will ensure

your

BeardBrand.com

you’re on time for your dinner

a

reservation. Apple.com

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18

distinctive

artwork

Frisco Life | February 2017

own

pasta—great

Valentine’s

Day

for

dinner!

shaving

kits,

mustache

Charm. Vintage. Timeless.

Celebrate your occasion with a historic flair

Frisco

Heritage Center Weddings/Events

beautiful stained glass 6321 Page St. Frisco, TX 75034

tin ceilings

chandeliers

original pews

Frisco Heritage Center

beautiful wood floors FriscoVenues.com 972-292-5101

Visit Frisco’s Newest Home Decor Boutique The Shops at Starwood

5285 Dallas Parkway, Frisco, TX 75034 • (214) 494-4544 Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. www.oasishomeaccents.com

February 2017 | Frisco Life

19

A Few Notes for the Special Day ARTICLE KRISTI

SAYING “I DO” IN FRISCO Alfred Angelo Gown

20

Frisco Life | February 2017

Winnie Couture Shop and Gown CONTINUED >

February 2017 | Frisco Life

21

SAYING I DO (CON TI N U ED)

ANDERSON

W

Top: Blushing Bride Boutique Middle: Engagement Ring Bottom: Wedding Ceremony at The Vine

22

Frisco Life | February 2017

hen most of us think of February, we think of love. With spring weddings just around the corner, a lot of couples will be in full swing with wedding planning.

Frisco is a vibrant city for many things, including hosting a wedding.

When the bride-to-be is ready to search for her dream wedding dress, Frisco has a number of bridal boutiques to choose from.

Blushing Bride, located on Main Street in Frisco is a great choice for a beautiful designer dress at excellent prices. Owned and operated

by Shana Lepsis, Blushing Bride has been in business for over five years now and one of Frisco's most popular wedding dress shop choices. To start the wedding day dress search contact Blushing Bride at 214.705.9224 Another bridal shop in the area is Alfred Angelo. Alfred Angelo Bridal Company has been in business for over eighty years. With it being the oldest family-operated bridal gown company, they have thousands of bridal stores across the United States, including our great city of Frisco. Alfred Angelo offers an assortment of bridal gowns ranging from $4002400. Alfred Angelo is the only bridal shop to offer Disney Fairy Tale Bridal Collection.

Choose dresses inspired by the most wellknown Disney princesses. Contact Alfred Angelo at 214.618.4044 To keep going with the dress search, a bride-to-be and her crew can come by Winnie Couture. Located near The Stonebriar Mall, Winnie Couture is ready to get that brideto-be, walk down the aisle ready. While here, you will be pampered as soon as you walk in for your appointment until you leave.

With champagne in hand, you will be escorted to your own private bridal fitting room space with plush furnishings, sparkling chandeliers overhead and your personal stylist to help assist you. Call Winnie Couture at 214.872.2887.

Wedding planning, of course, doesn’t end with finding that perfect wedding dress. A couple has to decide on the venue. Depending on your needs, Frisco has a lot to offer in this department.

The Vine is one truly unique wedding venue available in the middle of Frisco. This venue offers a number of romantic and beautiful settings for that perfect day.

The Depot is a great venue to choose if you want a no fuss, no muss, get everything done all in one spot kind of a day/evening.

They will go out of their way to make sure your day goes off wonderfully.

Stonebriar Country Club is another great venue choice here in Frisco. Dance the night away in one of their sprawling ballrooms, serve your guests a pre-selected menu of your choice. They want your night to be placed all in their hands, so that the bride and groom can focus on their special day.

What’s the old saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?" Well, this can also apply to your wedding guests.

When choosing what will be present on your big day, selecting appetizing food should be a major priority on the list. After all, research has shown that we remember the food most from people's weddings. Frisco has a number of places to please your guests on your special day.

Whether your ideal wedding is an intimate cocktail hour or an elaborate royal affair, 3 Dimensional Catering will take the time to get to know you and put together a custom proposal for you.

Babe’s Chicken – It sounds like such a simple name yet the flavor of the food is anything but simple. It is a southern cooked flavor like no other. Babe’s Chicken has over 5 locations

now in Texas and Frisco was lucky enough to be one of those cities. With a selection ranging from mouth-watering chicken pieces to made-from-scratch sides like green beans, corn, and buttermilk biscuits.

Randy’s Steakhouse can be great for catering your wedding day and/or serving a wonderful meal for the Rehearsal Dinner. With their lean and flavorful steak and seafood selection, your guests will be pleasantly fed.

Before any of this wedding day/evening magic can happen, there must be one word given: “YES” Palms sweating, they’ve practiced this many times and want the whole popping the question part to go perfectly. Alongside a perfect proposal is, of course, the perfect engagement ring.

Luxamart Jewelry Exchange on the southeast corner of Preston and Lebanon is a wonderful jeweler to visit here in Frisco. With a number of quality diamonds to choose from, you are sure to find that perfect sparkler for your love. They will assist you in selecting a diamond ring from their existing inventory, or customize your own engagement ring. Owners Doris Amini and her husband are looking forward to hearing from you at 214.862.6500.

Once that date's set, Frisco Texas has all of the elements in place to help you and your spouse to plan and execute the wedding of your dreams.

Top: Alfred Angelo Disney Collection Middle: Wedding at Stonebriar Country Club Bottom: Blushing Bride-To-Be

February 2017 | Frisco Life

23

Trend Setter

Finding The Pe

rfec t

E

n

24

Frisco Life | February 2017

m a on d i D t n e m e g ga

THE 4 C'S ARTICLE KRISTI ANDERSON

W

eddings are arguably planned and executed in large part due to the bride-to-be. There is one decision however, that is left up to the groom. It's, of course, the element that sets forth the wedding planning to begin with. That, of course, is to search for and select the perfect engagement ring.

No pressure, guys.

If you educate yourself enough beforehand, it can make the shopping experience go a lot more seamlessly. A good rule to shop by is the rule of the four "C's": Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat.

Diamonds can be an incredible objective object. Some woman like round, whereas others want princess cut. Once you get a good idea of the shape of diamond your soon to be fiance wants, you can then dive into addressing the four "C's."

The Carat is the weight of the diamond. A carat is weighed using a 100-pound scale. For instance, a diamond with 75 points is .75 carats.

The higher the carat size, the rarer the diamond. It's important to keep in mind, however, two diamonds of the same carat weight could easily have different values since you also have to take into account the Cut, Clarity and Color.

The Clarity of the diamond is perhaps one of the largest elements that determine the value of each diamond. Every diamond hold inclusions - theses are tiny imperfections or blemishes in the diamond. The size, color, and position of these inclusions will determine the value of the diamond. the smaller the inclusion(s), the rarer (and more expensive) the diamond.

The Color of diamonds also needs to be taken into account when searching for the perfect gem. Diamonds can come in various colors, and some brides preference is to wear the non-traditional colors. In most cases, the more colorless the diamond is, the greater value of the diamond. Diamonds are graded on their color using an alphabet scale.

For instance, if a diamond is graded a D-F it is considered colorless. If it is graded G-I the diamond is near-colorless, and if one is graded S-Z this will indicate that the diamond has a slight yellow or brown tint.

The last "C", the Cut is just as important to consider, in fact, it arguably could be the most important. When you hear people say gestures such as, "your ring sure is sparkling" or the like, this is in large part due to the diamond having a good cut. How well a diamond is cut will effect how much light enters a diamond and then reflects outward to give that "sparkling" affect.

When you purchase your diamond, each one will come with a diamond certificate that will explain what grade each one holds for each of the four "C's".

An additional thought to consider while finding that perfect sparkler, find out which type of shaped diamond your sweetie wants. Some women are completely set on wanting that princess or round cut, whereas some want an oval, etc. The shapes of diamonds are: Princess, Round, Oval, Marquis, Brilliant, Emerald and Pear.

The diamond has acted as a symbol of love for many decades.

There are no two the same and are treasured for a lifetime.

Happy hunting!

I Care Because You’re My Neighbor!

Proud West Frisco Trails Resident For 15 Years!

JULIE SMITH realtor® juliesmithrealtor@gmail.com www.juliesmithrealtor.com www.friscotxhome.com

RE/MAX Town & Country

February 2017 | Frisco Life

25

Driver’s Notebook

2017 FIAT 124 SPIDER

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY JASON GILMORE

C

ars.com recently labeled the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider the “best new convertible.” That certainly is a bold statement, with little truth behind it. We had the privilege of test driving the new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider, a Miatainspired Fiat, rear wheel drive convertible, that features keyless entry, push button start, FIAT® Connect 7.0 with 7-Inch Full-Color Touchscreen Display, Heated LeatherTrimmed Seats, ParkView® Rear Back Up Camera, four-wheel independent suspension, near 50/50 weight distribution, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, and a six-speed automatic transmission. This was all paired to a 1.4L turbocharged four cylinder engine with 160 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. While it may sound like a good amount of power to be behind this 26

Frisco Life | February 2017

February 2017 | Frisco Life

27

Driver’s Notebook

(CON TI N U ED)

Italian Label

Italian Interior

It definitely has a sports car feel and puts you in a sports car mood.

The handling is excellent and the whole car has an enjoyable feel to it. little car, it felt like it lagged a bit at certain times. After driving the car for a day, I thought this could really use a turbo, only later to find out, it, in fact, has a turbo. The Fiat claimed 0-60 time in 6.8 secs for the 124 spider, which for something that only weighs 2,500 lbs and has a turbocharged engine paired with it, is pretty impressive. When starting to accelerate, the motor first feels like it will do something, but then quickly disappoints as it lowers in power curve and creates a turbo lag. The interior cabin road noise is pretty noticeable as well. I was surprised the cabin wasn’t dampened more, the noise got a bit annoying after awhile. The volume on the car radio had to be turned up in order to help drown out the road noise factor.

With those complaints aside, the 124 Spider was a fun car to drive.

It definitely has a sports car feel and puts you in a sports car mood.

The handling is excellent and the whole car has an enjoyable feel to it. My daughter loved it, primarily because there was no back seat, so she was able to ride in front. As previously mentioned, this model is Miata-inspired. Mazda did build the platform and Fiat provided the engine and styling. So yes, I would say this is a Fiat Miata. It has very nice styling. Italian design house, Pininfarina penned the original 124 Spider, and Fiat grabbed some of the styling elements from it for the new Spider. The shape of the headlight cutouts, the hood bulges, and the kink in the doors are all lifted straight from the Pininfarina’s design. Unless you have never spent any time in a Miata, the 124 Spider feels original, but Fiat did borrow a lot of

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Frisco Life | February 2017

styling from its twin. The indoor panels are very similar, yet slightly tweaked. The instrument panel has different fonts and colors to streamline it more with Fiat’s look.The infotainment is very Mazda like with the controllable dial in the center console. Fiat does have a thicker steering wheel and badge. Their 7” display was nice and easy to control. Nothing in this car really feels cheap. The convertible top is very easy to lower one handed, similar to the Miata, which makes the Fiat 124 Spider that much more fun to drive. Who doesn’t love the windblown feeling across their face at 70 mph? (Well, maybe not in Texas). We had the Lusso model of the 124, which is the mid-level model, featuring 17” wheels. There was a seven-inch touch screen display which worked well, and nice sporty leather seats that didn’t recline because the seats rest against the rear of the car.

When we circle back to the cars.com quote, do we agree that it's the "best new convertible?" There are certainly a lot of options under 30k for other convertibles. I would probably opt for a new Mustang personally, but considering the convertible list for vehicles under $30k, I would agree, but add this: the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is the best new convertible, under $30k, but if you want more of a Miata feel, then just buy a Miata. While we would like to see a bit more power, especially out of a turbocharged engine, or at least a better power curve and sound dampening on the inside, the Fiat 124 Spider Lusso is a fun nicely styled car to own for under $28k. The base MSRP is $24,995.

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Rom anc ing Fr i sco City Scene

Bonnie Ruth's Patio

Perry's Steakhouse

Trattoria al Giardino

YOU + YOUR VALENTINE ARTICLE KRISTI ANDERSON

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Frisco Life | February 2017

iFLY Frisco

Frisco Escape Room

C

andy hearts, teddy bears, cards, oh my!

And of course, when mentioning Valentine's Day, we can’t leave out those romantic dinners, and creative fun outings, can we?

For those of us who don’t want to risk overcooking that romantic Valentine’s meal, and instead leave the cooking up to the expert chefs for our sweeties, Frisco has a great selection of restaurants to choose from to make sure the night goes on sans burnt lasagna.

If a fine steakhouse is what you two are craving, Perry's Steakhouse is a great option.

With a set menu for Valentine's Day, this gives you and your sweetie options of appetizers, entree's and of course a Valentine's dessert.

An Italian restaurant option is always a great choice. After all, Italy is the city of romance. With its romantic ambiance and filling dishes, Trattoria al Giardino will be sure to leave you fulfilled.

French cuisine is another great option. Frisco is lucky to have the French Bistro, Bonnie Ruth's. With a quaint and cozy outdoor patio, Bonnie Ruth's can offer a nice date night option.

Who says Valentine's Day has to be all about chocolates and meals? You and your significant other can come enjoy a creative day with Frisco Escape Rooms located at Countdown 2 Escape off of Main Street in Frisco. You will be given an hour block of time to work through challenging puzzles and obstacles, in order to escape the room. Talk about being a team! To get started on your adventure, contact Countdown 2 Escape at http://www.countdown2escape.com/ What better time to soar to new heights than with your love at iFLY in Frisco? iFLY is an indoor skydiving experience that has state of the art technology allowing you to feel an exhilarating and realistic skydiving experience indoors! Contact iFLY at 214.618.4359 to book your flights!

Painting with a Twist is another fun outing you and your Valentine could enjoy. Experienced instructors will guide you from step one to completion of your art piece. You and your love can sip on beverages and snacks of choice, while you create a masterpiece that you both can enjoy for years to come. Visit their website, paintingwithatwist. com/frisco for more details. Happy painting!

Whichever outing or event you and your Valentine choose, enjoy your day and evening and make it a memorable Valentine's Day. FriscoStyleMagazineAd-092616.indd 1

February 2017 | 10/4/16 Frisco3:41 LifePM 31

Lifestyle Calendar

February FEBRUARY 1

- it will give every woman attending the ultimate experience in the celebration of womanhood and sisterhood.

FEBRUARY 3 TEXAS LEGENDS VS. OKLAHOMA CITY BLUE

HORSE RESCUE TOURS

DR. PEPPER ARENA

BECKY'S HOPE HORSE RESCUE

Come watch the Texas Legends take on the Oklahoma City Blue!

Families and individuals can visit our facility during our normal operating hours when the gate is open, or you are welcome to schedule

FEB 9-11 VARIOUS TIMES

your visit in advance by contacting Sue Chapman. We are happy to

2017 INDOOR TRACK & FIELD CLASSIC

show you around and answer any questions you have for up to an

THE FORD CENTER AT THE STAR

hour. We appreciate a tax deductible donation of $10 or more. Minors

After a more than 30-year hiatus, a major indoor track and field event

must be accompanied at all times by a parent or legal guardian.

for collegiate and high school athletes is coming to North Texas. The

Please contact Sue Chapman at 214-918-6508 for more information

event, scheduled for February 9-11, 2017, will be held in Frisco, Texas

or to schedule.

at the newly built Ford Center at the Star--the world headquarters and practice facility of the Dallas Cowboys.

FEBRUARY 3 - 5 "DIVAFIVA" LADIES' NIGHT-OUT

FEBRUARY 10, 11

OVERNIGHT-OUT SLUMBER PARTY S.P.A

XO 2017: A GLOBAL MARRIAGE SIMULCAST

THE WESTIN STONEBRIAR HOTEL & GOLF CLUB

GATEWAY CHURCH

An extraordinary weekly 1 day/night slumber party catering only to

Be a part of the XO Marriage Conference via simulcast at the Frisco

women - ages 21 and older at a luxury 5/4-star hotel, these special

Gateway Campus. This unforgettable two-day event is designed to bring

events will be known as DivaFiva "Ladies' Night-Out Overnight-Out"

you and your spouse closer together over Valentine's Day weekend. XO

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CALL FOR DETAILS: 214.396.9200 | 7HEALTH.NET | 9191 KYSER WAY, SUITE 602, FRISCO, TX 75033 32

Frisco Life | February 2017

VISIT US AT

FriscoLifePubs.com

2017 will feature multiple day sessions, special guest speakers, and a

Sanctuary's nature trails at the 9th annual Dinosaurs Live! Life-

lively Q&A with Jimmy & Karen Evans. February 10th from 7:00-9:00

size Animatronic Dinosaurs at the Heard Exhibit. The exhibit al-

PM; February 11th from 9:00-11:30 AM

ways gives families and friends a fun, educational activity to enjoy

FEBRUARY 17 & 18 THE PATRIOT CUP

together. See the dinosaurs move and hear them roar! Photo op and play area (coming soon) dinosaurs will be available as well.

The dinosaur trail is jogging stroller friendly.

THE FORD CENTER AT THE STAR Cheer on some of the best in collegiate and high school lacrosse! The 2017 event will feature teams from Notre Dame, Georgetown, Stanford and Duke, as well as high school teams from Frisco, Highland Park and Westlake.

FEBRUARY 17-19 WOGA CLASSIC DR. PEPPER ARENA Whether you're an athlete or spectator, you won't want to miss one of the great gymnastics events of the year, as WOGA Gymnastics, home to Olympic Champions Nastia Liukin (2008), Carly Patterson (2004) and Madison Kocian (2016)

FEBRUARY 17 DINOSAURS LIVE! HEARD MUSEUM Encounter the 46-foot T-Rex and nine new life-size animatronic

LOVE YOUR SMILE

dinosaurs along the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife

INVISALIGN TRADITIONAL BRACES CLEAR BRACES

SCHEDULE YOUR COMPLIMENTARY V.I.P. EXAM TODAY! CALL (214) 705-6188 OR VISIT CORBRIDGEORTHODONTICS.COM 5110 ELDORADO PKWY. SUITE 500 FRISCO, TEXAS 75033 • LOCATED IN THE MARKET STREET SHOPPING CENTER

February 2017 | Frisco Life

33

Parting Thoughts

Can I Have Your Attention?

T H E B E S T VA L E N T I N E ' S G I F T ARTICLE KRISTI ANDERSON

You can shower your special Valentine this year with gifts that are store bought like the ones that go away in a mere few days (f lowers and candy), but if we really think about it, the best gift we can give our sweethearts is the gift of our attention.

It's been seen all too often these days when we get so caught up in our crazy schedules, that we forget to stop and take that quality time with our loved ones. This doesn't mean, arrive at the five-star restaurant with a romantic setting and then selfishly scroll through your smartphone all night. No. It means giving your attention; your whole presence to your significant other. It means don't always do the talking. Ask the questions. Be a good listener, a good friend. After all, friendship is the foundation of love.

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Frisco Life | February 2017

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