Meet the Visit Frisco Team

Marla Roe, CDME, CTA Executive Director

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 35+ years, but I won’t’ divulge the plus. Q: What do you love most about your job? Working with such a wide variety of people and sharing all the fun Frisco has to offer. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? You must come visit. You’ll be pleasantly surprised! Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? This is a tough one, but I’d have to say, right now, KidZania, mainly because I cannot wait to take my grandson there. Q: What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Salsa Tex Mex – it’s the ceviche for me. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? The Star is usually our first stop. I love being able to walk around and try different restaurants. Q: What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? It’s not so secret, but we love going to happy hour at TruFire Kitchen and Grill. Q: What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? I’m not much of a shopper, but if I need something, chances are I can find it at Stonebriar Centre. Q: Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Friendly, refreshing and interesting. Q: What is your go-to sweet treat? Chocolate ice cream. The chunkier, the better. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Wine Q: Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? In a local park or at a local restaurant. Q: Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Anywhere with a pretty beach. Q: Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I am a mom, wife, grandmother and destination expert who loves Frisco, the tourism industry and the great team at Visit Frisco. Q: Fun fact about you? I sing a lot in the car. I like to think people think I’m talking on the phone.

Jennifer Stewart Senior Administrative Assistant

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 15+ years. Q: What do you love most about your job? Working with a variety of people and helping make my coworkers jobs easier. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? The Star because there is a lot of Cowboys history in one place. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? La Hacienda Ranch, the Poblano Al Carbon. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? The Star is usually our first stop. I love being able to walk around and try different restaurants. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Stonebriar Centre. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Friendly, fun, and exciting. Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Ice cream. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Spicy Cucumber Margarita Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? At a concert. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Anywhere with a beach. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I love having cookouts at home with family and friends, going to concerts with friends, and traveling with my husband. Q. Fun fact about you? I have a garden set up to attract hummingbirds and I will see about 20 or more every year.

Marketing & Communications

Cori Powers Director of Marketing & Communications

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 4 years Q: What do you love most about your job? Connecting with our partners and learning more about what drives them. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco has so much to offer. It’s a great place to spend some time. You’ll feel comfortable and safe here and really impressed by the amenities, facilities, hotels and attractions. There really is so much going on in Frisco! Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? KidZania because there’s nothing like it in the U.S. While it’s a city powered by kids, as an adult it’s hard not to get caught up in the breadth of the experience and the attention to detail. It’s an educational environment that teaches kids about different industries and the value of hard work in a fun and meaningful way. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? How do you pick just one? Cacio e Pepe (with the fried egg) at Bottled in Bond; Prosciutto & Fig Flatbread at J. Theodore; and Beef Fajitas at Tupy’s. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? eight | 11 place for wine flights, pizza, live music and s’mores boards! Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Limestone Quarry Park: Seemingly a normal, kid-friendly park, but follow the small, unmarked path behind the bench and you’ll find a Frisco oasis, perfect for exploring. (Don’t forget to bring water shoes or old tennis shoes.) Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Tumbleweed TexStyles Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Family-Friendly, Sports, Growing Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? For a sweet start to the day: Doughnuts from Detour Doughnuts / For an afternoon treat: Reese’s Witha’spoon from Cow Tipping Creamery Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Lemonberry Mule at The Common Table Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? If there’s an event happening, my family and I like to attend fairs, concerts, sporting events, etc. Otherwise, we like to sit and listen to music and grab a bite to eat at Frisco Rail Yard. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Barcelona, Spain: The food, the wine, the atmosphere. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I’m Cori: Communications Pro, Marketing Maven, Content Writer, PR Specialist, Social Media Guru, and Exercise Enthusiast (only one’s been embellished). Q. Fun fact about you? I was named after Cory Everson, female body builder in the 80s who won six consecutive Ms. Olympia titles and was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame.

Michelle Hammond Creative Marketing Manager

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 3.5 years Q: What do you love most about your job? Telling the story of Friso through visual concepts and graphic design that conveys the beauty, pride and strength of our city. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco has been voted the best place to live and visit because it’s family-friendly with great amenities, facilities, hotels and awesome attractions for everyone. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? The Star. It has so much to offer! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? EG Steak mostly for the excellent lamb chops, salad bar and friendly ambiance. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? KidZania... I haven’t been there yet but I’m planning to take my family, friends and their kids to my newfound favorite. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Too many to count, but Apricot Lane may be among the favorites Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Safe, Family-Friendly, Outstanding Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? I don’t do many sweets but when I do it’s Aldi’s Choceur White Chocolate Bar Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? A mojito with fresh mint Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Spending time with the family Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Accra, Ghana. That’s where I’m from. I get to unwind and connect with family and childhood friends. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I am fun, hilarious (that’s what people say) and easy-going; a fun mom and wife who loves all things well designed, classy and modern. Q. Fun fact about you? Depending on who I’m talking to, my accent can change.

Hayley Ribordy Social Media Coordinator

  • Q: What do you love most about your job? Connecting with people and building relationships. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco has something for individuals of all ages and areas of interest. There’s always something to do and so many unique and fun experiences! Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? So far, my favorite Frisco attraction is The Rail District. I love the small-town feel and all of the unique shopping and restaurants! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Since I have to pick just one, I would probably say eight | 11 place. They have so many great food options, and one of my favorites is The Godfather (pizza). I love to pair it with a wine flight and a S’mores Board while enjoying live music on the patio! Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town? We usually take them to Didi’s Downtown or Jakes Burgers & Beer! Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Tumbleweed TexStyles Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Family-Friendly, Sports, Fun Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Cookies & Cream from Cookie Society, or Reese’s Witha’spoon from Cow Tipping Creamery (it’s SO GOOD!) Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Citrus Blue at Didi’s Downtown Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Volunteering, enjoying drinks and live music on a patio, or attending one of the many sporting events in Frisco! Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? We recently visited Nassau, Bahamas and loved the history, Pirate museum, and the delicious Sky Juice! Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. Hi, I’m Hayley: I’m a social butterfly, animal advocate, workout guru, wine connoisseur, and true-crime junkie! Q. Fun fact about you? I was a college athlete (Cross Country, Track, and Dance Team) and was on the Wichita State Dance Team.

Kelly Walker Communications Coordinator

  • Q: What do you love most about your job? I love getting to talk about what Frisco has to offer. I get to brag on the exciting events and inspiring people who make up the restaurants, music, and attractions that make this such a great place to live and visit. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? You’ll be pleasantly surprised. Frisco will probably have more amenities, easier to navigate to and navigate around, and helpful services teams that you think. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? Because I’m a sports nut, I could go with Toyota Stadium, Riders Field, The Star, or PGA Frisco really. Not sure I can pick only one because they are all my go-to for fun and entertainment in Frisco! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Another surprising gem about Frisco is The Depot. The vegan breakfast tacos at this unassuming little café are so tasty, and the casual, hometown feel of the place is comforting. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? The Star. It’s an easy place to meet for whatever you are looking for from a quick drink to a burger or tex mex or ice cream for the kids. Plus, everyone loves seeing Tostitos Plaza, Ford Center, and The Star. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? There are two parks that I love escaping to. The paths and bridges at Harold Bacchus Community Park are gorgeous and the pond and amphitheater area of Frisco Commons is so peaceful to watch the sunset. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Has it all. Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? You can definitely find me around a sporting event of some sort on the weekends. Depending on the season I’m watching baseball, soccer, football, basketball, and more – both professionals and youth, somedays a combination of both. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? The clear waters of Turks and Caicos is absolutely stunning. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I’m a mom, wife, red raider, and writer who loves sports, being active, and helping in my community. Q. Fun fact about you? When I was 5 years old, I got to be in a Big Red soda commercial because they featured my hometown gymnastics team.

Sales & Conventions

Christina Decker Director of Sales

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? Just about 26 years. Q: What do you love most about your job? I love to help people. I find out the needs of our clients and find them a place or solution. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco is the best place to have a meeting because we are centrally located - only 25 minutes from both airports. Frisco has top notch, beautiful hotels and unique venues. Along with our outstanding customer service and our city support, Frisco is the perfect place for any meeting. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? KidZania! I love that we currently have the only one in the US. I like the concept and how children can learn the responsibility of what it is like to be an adult while having fun. I love talking about KidZania to clients. They are so fascinated, especially when they actually get to visit it. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? My all-time favorite place is Eight 11 – I have to order the Jalapeno Popper Pizza, which is worth every carb. I love the wine flights they offer and the variety of wines they have on the menu. We love sitting on the patio, enjoying the eat and drinks, and listening to live music. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? If they aren’t from Texas I have to take them to Babe’s! Otherwise I would take them to Eight 11 unless it’s Friday night I have to take them to Cantina Laredo for their yummy margs – it’s what I do every Friday night in Frisco! Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Painted Tree - they have so many unique finds for home and fashion! Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Unique, friendly and fun. Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Rare Books Bar for their delicious cakes by the slice – I love to order a variety to share! Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? When I’m not at Cantina Laredo I have a specialty cocktail at Bottle in Bond (bartenders’ choice)! Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? At Frisco Fresh Market supporting local vendors with the most delicious food, fruits and unique gifts. Or I’m enjoying the sunshine at my pool! Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Germany - it’s my husband’s home country. I’ve eaten and drank my way through the entire country. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I am passionate about Frisco and the hospitality industry. I like to inspire others to do good and be good, by leading by the example. I believe if you have a good attitude, you can do great things no matter what the situation. I am a loving wife, mother and grandmother, and love to spend time with my family. Q. Fun fact about you? I have a dog (Chihuahua mix) named Jäger.

Melissa Anguiano CRM Coordinator

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? Going on 10 years+ Q: What do you love most about your job? Events bring people together. Helping bring those events to your city knowing that memories are going to be made from them, there is no greater feeling. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco, Texas, offers fun for everyone in a safe, and unique setting. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? Frisco RoughRiders Game - They have a lazy river, playground, baseball and beer! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? This is a tie between the Heritage Table and Didi’s Downtown. If you go to Didi’s you must try the Hot Honey Buttered Fried Chicken Sandwich. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Nerdvana - video games and delicious food. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Tumbleweed TexStyles Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? I used 4… Family Friendly Foodie Paradise Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Chiller Bee Frozen Yogurt Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? A sucker punch at Torchy’s Tacos Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Apart from sporting events, I enjoy exploring all the local eats. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Any place that has clear blue water, white sand beach and I can enjoy a drink with an umbrella in it. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. When I am not cheering on a sports team, I’m exploring the world through food and laughter. I am passionate about the work we do at Visit Frisco for our partners, residents and visitors. Q. Fun fact about you? I am obsessed with the wonders of the world: ancient and new. I’ve been fortunate enough to have already visited four so far!

LaChelle Evans, CTA National Sales Manager

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? Overall 30+ years! Q: What do you love most about your job? Meeting people and building lasting relationships and partnerships. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? That it’s a thriving, growing city, with lots to do in such a small radius! I talk about all of the one-of-a-kind venues we have, and I share that it’s safe, family oriented and how well the city departments work together, because they understand the importance of tourism. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? The Star – I’m a huge Cowboys fan! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Perry’s Steakhouse – There are way too many good dishes to pick just one. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? The Star or Riders Field. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? The Parlour Social Lounge Bar and Bistro, located inside Hotel Indigo is one of my favorite spots. Great drinks and Chef Neal cooks amazing dishes you have to try. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? The many great boutiques and shops in Frisco. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Safe, exciting and fun. Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Candy and ice cream. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Peachy Glenn at Perry’s Steakhouse Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Relaxing at home Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Wichita, Kansas which is home and where I spend time with my mom. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less: I’ve worked in hospitality over 30 years, so I guess that’s who I am. I have a knack for creating special moments and delivering meaningful experiences, but more importantly, I enjoy it! My daughter Tiffany is my daily source of pride, and I live my best life among my family and friends. I also enjoy traveling to exotic destinations such as Trinidad and Barcelona, with my sights set on Fiji! Q. Fun fact about you? I love groupon-ing.

Jennifer Brown Senior Sales Manager

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? I’ve loved it for a long time! Q: What do you love most about your job? Meeting new clients and engaging them in the Frisco story. Helping make an impact in our local economy. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner that is considering Frisco? Frisco is a small, friendly city with big city amenities to enjoy. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? Our local restaurants are my favorite attraction. Enticing food and beverages live here! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? My current favorite is Torchy’s Tacos. Their queso is ridiculous and my go-to taco is the brushfire (no diablo sauce). Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? Torchy’s Tacos! Insider’s tip: sit at the bar and they’ll serve you there. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Driving on County Road 68, between Coit and Independence. It’s literally a tree-covered country road, one block north of 121! Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? Dillards at Stonebriar Centre. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Best city ever. Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Andy’s Frozen Custard - Snowmonster with marshmallow concrete. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Tall vodka soda with lime. Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Gardening in my yard. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Barcelona Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I’m always pushing to be the best version of myself, focused on what I ‘get’ to do each day! Q. Fun fact about you? My low-key obsessions: the great people in my life, my yard and garden, and making craft cocktails.

Charles "Cee Jay" Jones Sales Manager

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? A. 25 + years Q: What do you love most about your job? A. I really enjoy meeting and working with clients who I can build long-lasting partnerships and friendships. Q. What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? A. Frisco has everything you need to conduct a successful meeting. Great venues, lots of shopping, and amazing attractions. Q. What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? A. KidZania, my grandson loves that place! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? A. Tupelo Honey Chicken & Waffles Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? A. The Star District offers an awesome experience. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? A. Stonebriar Centre Mall Q: What's your favorite secret spot in Frisco? A. CUT by Cinemark Movie Theater Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? A. Why Not Frisco Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? A. Nothing Bundt Cakes Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? A. Working in the yard before chilling watching sports Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? A. Dubai Q: Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. A. I am a girl dad (4 daughters), loving husband, and a G-pops. I love sports, music, traveling, and going to the movies. I enjoy positive people. Life is too short not to smile. Q. Fun fact about you? A. I've visited all 50 states and all six Disney Parks (Orlando, Anaheim, Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Shanghai)

Destination Services

Lisa Bethea, CTA, CTIS Director of Destination Services

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 15+ years Q: What do you love most about your job? Creative problem solving for all types of events/meetings. I love a good challenge. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Welcome and let’s play! Frisco is an exciting destination for all kinds of events, especially when you partner with our attractions to add in some extra elements of fun! Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? Museum of the American Railroad – the railroad is connected to the history of this city and nearly every culture is represented in the history of the railroad. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Babe’s Chicken Dinner House – the chicken strips – I “won” a chicken finger eating contest with these babies. Well, sort of. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? National Videogame Museum Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Scottish Rite for Children Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center… Beautiful building with some of the best popcorn in town. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? The Frisco Mercantile and Painted Tree Frisco. I love seeing the unique items you can’t find anywhere else and supporting our local entrepreneurs. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Safe, friendly, innovative Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Chocolate Chip Cookies at La Finca. Yum! Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? A cranberry mojito at City Works Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Hiking/exploring a local nature preserve. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Nazca, Peru. It’s on my bucket list to explore. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. While it may be my job to help, it is always my goal to be of service. I am an advocate for my city, my team, and my community – showcasing the value in all of us and all we do. Q. Fun fact about you? I collect pens and literally have thousands.

Devon Doggett Destination Services & Sports Coordinator

  • Q: What do you love most about your job? Working with a variety of organizations plan their events, no matter how big or small, to create lasting memories for the participants/spectators while bringing more eyes to our amazing city. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco provides you with the opportunity to host every type of event you could dream up. From our unique venues to our amazing hotels there is no shortage of opportunity to host an amazing event! Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? Toyota Stadium and the National Soccer Hall of Fame. The interactive exhibits are one of a kind! Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Hutchins BBQ, and I get 1lb of the brisket and 1lb of the jalapeno cheddar sausage with all the sides… I’m hungry now Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? The Star. Whether you are a football fan, a foodie, or someone who enjoys shopping, it has something for everyone. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Sports Academy. It’s an amazing sports performance training facility that can also be utilized to host events. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Innovative, Sports, Growth Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Ice Cream. All the ice cream. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? An old fashioned or a good whiskey on the rocks! Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? At the gym or enjoying a day with my amazing wife at a sporting event, restaurant, or the whole family. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? So far it has to be Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico! Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. Sports Junkie, strongman enthusiast and passionate husband. I love my family, I love making people laugh, and I love what I do. Q. Fun fact about you? I can name every U.S President in under 20 seconds!

Lydia Vara-Sebany Destination Services Coordinator

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? 9 years. Q: Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Anywhere with a beach and great food. Q: Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? At home trying out a new recipe or exploring events across the metroplex. Q: What do you love most about your job? Interacting with community members to learn how diverse a Frisco experience can be. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? I could spend all day at The Star whether that's enjoying one of the many good eats, catching a movie at the Tostitos Championship Plaza, or shopping for some new Cowboys gear. It's perfect to enjoy by yourself or with friends and family. Q: What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? My favorite has to be Ramen Hakata and my go to is the Shoyu Ramen but most importantly extra, extra spicy. Q: How do you describe your Frisco in 3 words? Bright, Booming, and Exciting. Q: What is your go-to sweet treat? Andy's custard will always hit the spot. Q: What is your go-to happy hour drink? Vodka grapefruit Q: Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I am a foodie and event lover who landed in the hospitality world. I'm currently picking up on baking, roller blading (yes, took a tumble), and new wines! Fun fact about you? My comfort show is Law & Order: SVU, but I only like to watch, then re-watch, the early seasons. I usually go back to season one when I stop seeing flip phones.

Sports & Events

Josh Dill, STS Director of Sports & Events

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? I’ve spent my entire 15-year career in sports with the last 13 years in sports tourism. Q: What do you love most about your job? I love the planning and build-up it takes to create an environment where athletes can reach their pinnacle and show their full potential. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? I always tell people that Frisco has all the benefits of being in a large metropolitan area while maintaining a small-town feel and charm. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? I love the National Soccer Hall of Fame because the interactive exhibits make it fun for everyone, even if they aren’t soccer enthusiasts. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Hutchins BBQ - Have to order the Texas Twinkies. Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? I love to see people’s reactions when I take them to The Star. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, located at 15825 Gateway Dr., Suite 200. They have a great selection of game-worn and sideline apparel. Q. What’s your favorite place to shop in Frisco? I can’t go in Tumbleweed TexStyles without buying something. Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Does “Sports City USA” count? Q. What is your go-to sweet treat? Southern Charm at Cow Tipping Creamery. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Can’t beat an old fashioned, especially some of the awesome ones made here in Frisco. Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? At a sporting event, of course! Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? My wife and I went to Matangi Private Island Resort in Fiji on our honeymoon, and I dream of going back there. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. Above-average girl dad and below-average husband who turned sports into a career. Trying to laugh and be successful while fighting ADD and…what was the question?? Q. Fun fact about you? I was a competitive tumbling and trampoline athlete for more than a decade.

Chuck Brakes, CTA, STS Senior Sports Sales Manager

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? Eight years. Q: What do you love most about your job? All of the wonderful people and still being involved in sports. Q: What would you tell a meeting planner/sports event rights holder/visitor that is considering Frisco? Frisco is a very unique city; it literally has it all. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? The Star - It gives you an opportunity to take a closer look inside an NFL franchise, as well as gives you the opportunity to enjoy all of the entertainment options. Q. What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? Tender Smokehouse - their brisket and BBQ beans combo is a “don’t miss!” Q. Where is the first place you take your friends and family from out of town when they visit Frisco? Always The Star and Stonebriar Centre mall. Q. What’s your favorite secret spot in Frisco? Snow cones from the Frisco Snow Cone Lady! Q. Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Fun, sports and food. Q. What is your go-to happy hour drink? Always an Old Fashion. Q. Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Usually at Fieldhouse USA for an event. Q. Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? I love Australia. Q. Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I am passionate about sports. I am a “glass is half full” type of guy. I love seeing people doing good and having fun. I love what I do, my family, my friends and sports. Q. Fun fact about you? I I grew up in the south of France, so French is my second language.

Ali Iskender Research & Business Specialist

  • Q: How long have you worked in the industry? Slightly over a decade including my PhD level academic endeavors. Q: Where is one of your favorite travel destinations in the world? Melbourne, Australia: the city and beach are together. It is culturally diverse and lively. Also, you get to see the penguins. Q: Where would someone most likely find you on the weekend? Soccer field: I like to play soccer and attend low-key social events occasionally. Q: What do you love most about your job? My job is doing data-based research and conducting economic impact analysis primarily. I like to reveal the unknown and provide insights. Q: What is your favorite Frisco attraction, and why? I am new to town, and there are so many. I heard the library is fascinating. I would choose the National Soccer Hall of Fame since I am a soccer fan. However, the National Videogame Museum and KidZania are cool concepts as attraction. Everything is at the national level here in Frisco. 😊 Q: What is your favorite Frisco restaurant and your go-to dish to order there? I like ethnic food restaurants--particularly, any dish from Balkan and Mediterranean cuisines. There are plenty of ethnic food restaurants in Frisco. Q: Describe your Frisco in 3 words? Emerging, Inclusive, and Frisky! 😊 Q: What is your go-to sweet treat? Double chocolate caramel ice cream Q: What is your go-to happy hour drink? Sangria Q: Describe who you are in 140 characters or less. I think I would describe myself as reasonable and funny; independent and approachable; sincere and respectful; disciplined and flexible. Q: Fun fact about you? I used to write lyrics. I have particularly enjoyed writing the lines with rhymes. 😊

Contact the Visit Frisco team for Frisco information, news and recommendations.